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CAP NY ACTIVATE : 5 Family Owned & Operated Drive In Movie Theaters

July 12, 2022 By Nellie Ackerman-Vellano

Before there was cable TV and the internet (my own kids can’t imagine such a primitive time) families went out together to enjoy a movie in a car, packed full of kids. Sometimes the neighbor’s kids were mixed in the bunch too. I remember being about 8 years old, and walking to the drive-in movie concession stand with my dad, and the feeling I had when we all got to have our own brown paper lunch bags filled with buttered popcorn. We lived on a small income, and this was one of the few times when we didn’t have to share the one treat that might have been quickly bought on another type of outing. The small bag of popcorn was all mine! It was like we were on a vacation, and then my parents would even let us have candy after 8pm at night too. I remember seeing people of all ages enjoying the movies that we’d watch together as a family, under the stars.

This article is presented through a content collaboration with ACE and CapNY.
Visit us on Instagram at @upstatecreative and @gocapny

Hi Way Drive In Fence | Photo: Corey Aldrich

Kids today don’t like the things we liked back when we were kids right? I’m a parent that has these worried thoughts that many other parents have, and while I have really good kids… kids get bored easily. Would they be excited about sitting on a blanket or lawn chair outside watching the movie? Will my autistic middle child be able to sit through this movie with so many distractions and stimulation going on around him?

We packed the back of our suv with pillows & blankets, some lawn chairs, lots of hopefulness, and loaded ourselves inside and headed to the drive-in-movies for the first time with my children. We found the perfect spot, center of the field, not too close to the screen and not too far of a walk to the snack bar. We opened the back door, put some lawn chairs by our tail end, and set up the blankets and pillows too. It was now time to “officially” prepare for the movie. That means lots of snacks! We walked to the concession building before the movie started. There we rented a little portable radio that some drive-ins offer as an option to run your car radio on the vehicle’s battery, and it also can allow for the movie to be heard better outside of our vehicle while sitting in our lawn chairs.

Concession stand at Jericho Drive In Theater | Image: Corey Aldrich

Next, we needed food and drinks. The menu options now offered in many snack bars at drive-in movie theaters, compare more to pub fare and the food is good. This is a huge life saver as a parent. I didn’t have to rush making dinner and feeding it to the kids before we left the house. We each ordered a main menu item, drinks, and of course you can’t not order freshly popped popcorn and candy to have during the movie. After our picnic style meal, we cleaned up a bit, and then sat back, ready to watch the movie. I will never forget how I immediately felt sharing this cherished childhood memory with my own kids, and watching them experience seeing the largest outdoor movie screen they’d ever seen for the very first time… together as a family, under the stars.

Drive-in movie theaters are almost always owned by a local family living in the very community their theater is in. They don’t make much money off of your movie ticket. The families sell snacks and other foods, and that’s what helps keep these classic old school drive-in movie theaters open and alive for all of us to enjoy still. Some have been here for over 70 years. The concession stands create jobs, and employee people all throughout the duration they are open. Jericho Drive-in for example currently employs over 45 people. Please be sure to visit and support the snack bars when you go to the drive-in movie theater. I know these local family owned businesses will greatly appreciate you for this.

Below are a list of 5 drive-in movie theaters including my two top picks. All mentioned are worth taking a little drive to while visiting each of the counties they are in.

Hollywood Drive In Theater | Image: Corey Aldrich

HOLLYWOOD DRIVE-IN MOVIE THEATER
Averill Park, New York

Open since 1952. Owned and operated by the Fisher family.

“In 1968 Frank took over the business from his father and still enjoys running it to this day .He has learned everything from the projectors to the concessions when he was just a teenager working with his father and through trial and error and have improved the theater tremendously from those early days.” their website stated. “The Hollywood Drive-In (TM) has been in business for 70 years and over the years has seen many changes. We have always maintained that having fun is what a drive-in is all about. We offer a neat and clean facility with a freshly mowed parking area. At the Hollywood Drive-In (TM) you will find a well trained staff ready to serve you with a relaxed atmosphere for you and your family to enjoy.“

They have also recently remodeled their concession building and have an expanded their menu to suit everyone’s palette. They offer fresh homemade pizza, which you can order by the slice or the whole pie. You can get cooked to order hamburgers, hot dogs and fries… and of course the old time favorite popcorn.

Their website mentions that the popcorn boxes are randomly stuffed with free passes into the drive-in.

Food Permit: We understand that people have food allergies or people prefer to bring food from home or elsewhere. However, outside food seriously hurts our ability to sustain our business. Admissions mostly belong to the studios. We have instituted a $5 food permit for those bringing in food. Deliveries to the theatre are strictly prohibited.

WEB: hollywooddrivein.com
ADMISSIONS: Adults $11 | Children 3-10 yrs old $6

Jericho Drive In Theater | Image: Corey Aldrich

JERICHO DRIVE-IN & ICE CREAM SHOPPE Glenmont, New York

Open since 1957. Owned and operated by the Chenette family.

I was able to reach and speak with Lisa Chenette by phone, one of the owners of The Jericho Drive-in & Twist Ice Cream Shoppe. She shared with me their family’s story. Jericho Drive-in was purchased in 1995 by Mike Chennette, and has since had a stand alone ice cream shoppe built in 2007 that services both their drive-in movie guests and the general public. This well thought out stand has service windows on both sides of the building, that sits partly inside of the fence surrounding the drive-in, and accessible to non moviegoers who only want to enjoy a cold treat from the ice cream stand. Like their Sweetheart Sundae that tells the sweet story of how Mike’s mother always called his father, Sweetheart. This special sundae was added to their menu in memory of Mike’s father after he passed away, and is only offered around Valentine’s Day, when the ice cream shoppe officially reopens for the season.

Their concession stand was just remodeled and their menu includes Philly cheesesteaks on a toasted bun, and Chinese Egg Rolls made by the local Chinese in Restaurant in their town to support another local small business.

WEB: jerichodrive-in.com
ADMISSION: Adults $11 | Children 11 and under $6

Here are three more family owned and operated Drive-in movie theaters that I recommended visiting in these different counties here in Upstate New York.

Hi Way Drive In Theater | Image: Corey Aldrich

HI-WAY DRIVE-IN MOVIE THEATER
Coxsackie, New York

Located between Catskill and Coxsackie NY, Hi-Way Drive-In movie theater is referred to as the ‘Cinema Under The Stars.’ The Gate and the Snack Bar open 90 Minutes Before the 1st Movie starts.

WEB: hiwaydrivein.com
ADMISSION : $11 for ages 12 and up, and $6 for ages 3 – 11
(children under 3 years of age are admitted free)

Malta Drive In Theater | Image: Corey Aldrich

MALTA DRIVE IN THEATER
Malta, New York

Open since 1949!

This is the Drive-in movie theater that created my own family’s very first drive-in movie memories. I can still remember when my 12yr old son asked for the first time if he could walk his little brother to the concession stand, by himself, and how as a child he felt like this was a move towards growing up. I watched them walk towards the snack bar, holding hands, and walk into the building. I watched and waited for my two boys to walk out of the snack bar and proudly bring back food and drinks for their other brother and their mom. I must say, I love the burgers here. Make sure you grab one from their snack bar when you visit them.

This two screen drive-in theater is family owned and operated by Ed & Tom Caro. “Many of our staff have been working here for years“, Ed shared. Ed & Tom Caro are both very active in the drive-in theater and both of their children have worked at the drive-in in the past too. Ed & Tom have worked towards not only making their drive-in theater a place where families can come to and make memories… they have also encouraged their staff to be a part of their drive-in family too. In fact, Ed shared that “We have a father & daughter, a mother & son, two sisters, and three cousins that all work for us“. This small locally owned family business, welcomes locals and visitors from outside of Saratoga County to come and feel like part of the Caro family too.

The Caro family added the second movie screen in 2008, and with the new addition they also updated & expanded their restroom area as well.

Outside Food, Beverage, and / or Cooler Permit: $5.00 per car, per night

Movie sound is broadcast in stereo over FM radio and can be heard via your car radio or a portable radio that you bring. Additionally, boom boxes can be rented for $5 in the concession stand (limited availability) and we require surrender of your driver’s licence until return of the radio. They do not have any speakers on the posts.

WEB: maltadrivein.com
ADMISSION: Adults (Age 12 & Older): $11.00 | Children (Under 12): $6.00

Glen Drive In Theater | Image: Cinema Treasures

GLEN DRIVE-IN MOVIE THEATER
Queensbury, New York

Open since 1958! Glen is open 7 nights a week during the season starting at 7:00 PM. Shows start at dusk.

WEB: glendriveintheater.com
ADMISSION: Tickets Adults $11.00 / Children $6.00 | CASH ONLY

Nellie Ackerman-Vellano is a freelance brand development professional, writer and photographer who writes for a variety of periodicals including 518 Profiles Magazine. | IG: @FeedMe518 | @BonVivantPhotographe

Putting the Economy in Creativity – A Conversation with Maureen Sager

June 6, 2022 By Corey Aldrich

I met Maureen while I was in Saratoga producing a sustainable fashion event in 2015. She took an interest in me and invited me out for drinks to talk about potential projects we could work on together. I will never forget how passionate she was about collaboration and the need for creatives to get proper compensation. We ended up working on a series of events together under the Saratoga Arts Fest summer program over the course of 3 years. Also at around that time she helped facilitate my connection with ACE! as the freelance creative representative in what was a group of who’s who of institutional arts in the Capital Region. This was back when it was a small gathering of folks meeting in a conference room at the Community Foundation of the Greater Capital Region. Since then, we have worked together on scores of events across the 8 counties of the Capital Region and helped create a connected community of talented creatives that I am proud to be a part of. While its bitter sweet to see Maureen move on to her next episode, I know that she will always be a quick text away and am excited to walk in her footsteps, continuing what we both believe is an important mission for all creative individuals and cultural and arts institutions in our region – the raising up of creative voices and providing opportunity for recognition, compensation and the strengthening of our most valuable regional asset, our creative class.

2016 WMHT Creative Networking Kickoff Event | Troy NY | Photo: Richard Lovrich

You came into this affiliation with a strong experiential background, can you share a little bit about your previous professional gigs?

Sure! I feel really lucky to have had a career in the entertainment industry. I went to film school at the American Film Institute in Los Angeles, and worked at film companies like PolyGram Filmed Entertainment, where we released a slew of great indies like Four Weddings and a Funeral and The Usual Suspects. Then I fell in love with dotcom, and ended up at Nickelodeon during the wild, early days of the internet. It was super fun.

2018 Art OMI | Ghent, NY | Photo: Kristin Halligan

Tell us a little about the genesis of ACE! and how and when you came to be involved.

Almost ten years ago, the Community Foundation of the Greater Capital Region, along with key players like the Center for Economic Growth (CEG) and others, commissioned a report that quantified the “creative economy” of the 8-county Capital Region. The results were amazing! This sector — which had never been measured or talked about before — was suddenly seen as an economic driver, generating over a billion dollars in revenue, and employing tens of thousands of people. Such a surprise for everyone involved.

A group of people — Ellen Sax of MVP Health Care, Robert Altman of WMHT, Tom Lloyd of Adirondack Studios, Jeff Mirel of The Rosenblum Companies, Philip Morris of Proctors and MANY, MANY others — started convening, trying to figure out how to make the creative economy known and recognized in economic and workforce development circles. We gathered a bit of money together to start the project, and see whether we could get creatives businesses and organizations from all eight counties to work together in developing ourselves as a business sector. And, voila! ACE! was born.

2018 EYP Architecture and Engineering | Albany, NY

2019 PS21 | Chatham, NY | Photo: Ed Sager

You have been a passionate and dedicated leader to the organization, what particularly called you to the mission of ACE! and why do you feel that is important for our region?

There are SO MANY talented people up here — as talented as any I met in NY and LA — and yet, there just aren’t enough jobs and opportunities for our artists and creatives. People here — and small orgs and businesses — have drive, skill and passion to spare, and yet, they’re barely getting by. I think that’s what connected all of us who have worked with ACE! over the years. We wanted recognition for what’s here, and who’s here. We’re SO DAMN AWESOME. So, we just started throwing events, to celebrate all of the amazing venues, locations, and people we’ve got in this region.

2021 HBO Gilded Age Event with Special Guest Bob Shaw | Troy, NY | Photo: Konrad Odhiambo

Corey, I remember when you and I drove down to Brooklyn to go to a Freelancers Union networking event about 8 years ago. It was so cool to see a bunch of self-employed people sharing their knowledge and completely supporting each other’s efforts. You and I thought, “Damn, we could do that.” So, we did! We busted our asses for years, with dozens and dozens of events, and people were so supportive of our efforts. People were — are — really hungry to connect and learn and collaborate.

2019 Pitney Meadows Community Farm | Saratoga Springs, NY

There have been many highlights over the last several years. Can you share what you feel or some of the most important accomplishments of ACE?

I guess the biggest accomplishment is that the term “creative economy” is officially recognized and respected throughout the region. That’s really what we set out to do — to make it easier for everyone to be seen as integral to the economy of the region. Creatives aren’t just eye candy. We’re MONEY. We give life to our cities and towns. And we deserve respect.

2018 National Museum of Dance | Saratoga Springs, NY | Photo: Ed Sager

Can you tell us about your latest decision to move on and what your current professional goals are?

Two years ago, I moved down to Catskill, a town I fell in love with while planning an ACE event six years ago. My life is centered down here now, and it’s too far south to cover the whole region. Plus, after these two years of COVID, I was ready for a change. I’m so damn glad that you (Corey) are here to take it over. We hatched this thing together, and it’s time for you to invent the next chapter. I’m so excited to see where it goes.

2019 Arts Letters and Numbers | Avril Park, NY

2019 Opalka Gallery | Albany, NY | Photo: Ed Sager

Is there anything specific you would like to share that you feel is important for our audience to consider?

The creative economy is a powerful change agent, but not all of the changes are good. Gentrification and skyrocketing rents are plaguing many of our cities and towns. It worries me, when creatives can no longer afford to live in the places they helped to flourish. I hope we can figure out ways to address this together, and if you have ideas, I’m all ears.

Maureen Sager is now the Director of Marketing and Communications at SUNY Columbia-Greene Community College and has a real estate side hustle based in Catskill, NY.

Editors Note: Ellen Sax was inaccurately identified as working for CDPHP. Ellen is actually employed by MVP Health Care. We apologize for the confusion.

CAP NY ACTIVATE : 5 Family Friendly Museums You Must Visit This Summer

June 6, 2022 By Nellie Ackerman-Vellano

As a mother of three children, my boys have always been curious individuals. My middle son is autistic and mentally disabled. Finding family friendly places to take my children that were fun, engaging, and interactive… but also educational and inspiring… was absolutely a challenge with school aged kids and one with special needs.

When my three boys were younger, I was a single mother seeking out places where my creative and imaginative boys could be boys. I had to find adventures that my special needs son could go on, and places that would welcome him.

I found museums and scenic spaces, in cities and towns that had a main street where we could walk, shop, eat, and explore.

These same spaces welcomed my boys as they grew into teenagers, and these spaces still seemed curious enough for them to want to keep exploring.

I’d like to share about five wonderful and curious spaces that would welcome your entire family, in small cities and towns that invite you to explore them.

This article is presented through a content collaboration with ACE and CapNY.
Visit us on Instagram at @upstatecreative and @gocapny

THE FRANCES YOUNG TANG TEACHING MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY
Skidmore College | Saratoga Springs, NY

“The purpose of the Frances Young Tang Teaching Museum and Art Gallery is to awaken the community to the richness and diversity of the human experience through the medium of art” – the introduction on the Tang website’s ABOUT section.

I don’t know if I can truly express what this museum is about better than that wonderful statement right there.

The Tang is a fantastic museum and art gallery… and it’s also a teaching museum, a space for curious individuals to explore and imagine, and a safe environment for both established and emerging artists.

The Tang Museum does approximately twelve exhibitions each year. Most of the exhibits are originated by the Tang. Faculty and students are involved as curators and advisors for its signature interdisciplinary exhibitions.

These large-scale projects combine diverse objects such as antique maps, scientific equipment, Rube Goldberg cartoons, Hudson River School landscapes, Shaker furniture and dynamic new works of international contemporary art.

Tang Guides, many of whom are Skidmore College students, are trained gallery ambassadors and tour guides. Through this program, they are introduced to the Tang and the museum world, and trained to give tours, while gaining valuable real-world experiences interacting with visitors.

Located in Skidmore college in Saratoga Springs NY, your family can visit the museum in this vibrant little city and spend a few more days exploring all of the downtown shops and restaurants. Make sure you plan enough time on your visit to take a short day trip to the Saratoga State Park or nearby Saratoga Lake.

815 North Broadway | Saratoga Springs, NY
WEB: tang.skidmore.edu
SOCIAL: IG @tangteachingmuseum | FB @tangmuseum

THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM AT SARATOGA
Saratoga Springs, NY

Are you looking for a fun & interactive day trip to go on with the kids or are you searching for a getaway for a few days with the family and you have to keep them entertained? Then add Saratoga Springs, NY, and of course The Children’s Museum at Saratoga, to your list of places to visit. With many wonderful shops, restaurants, and a lovely park nearby that has a beautiful carousel to ride on, you can easily spend several days and more in this little city.

“Where Learning and Play go Hand-in-Hand” describes what this Museum is about, “Paying it forward‘ and “community giving” are words often used to describe what this museum selflessly does for other organizations. The Children’s Museum at Saratoga’s foundation was created on the belief in inclusivity and equity of all children, including those outside the museum walls where they reach into and positively impact their community.

The mission of this museum is to inspire, spark and nurture children and foster active parent involvement in their child’s learning.

This museum not only offers the opportunity to experience an exhibit when you visit them, but children of all ages can interact in a variety of public programs such as Story Time, Science Explorers, and Art Adventures. This includes toddler & pre-school aged children too. The museum offers Seasonal Programs as well, such as Nature Exploration. Field Trip, Outreach and Hybrid Programs are options too.

The Museum’s hours will shift based on seasonal variations in attendance. Check their website for changes in their hours and to see what days they will be closed.

65 South Broadway | Saratoga Springs, NY
WEB: cmssny.org
SOCIAL: IG @childrensmuseumsaratoga | FB @childrensmuseumatsaratoga

THOMAS COLE NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE
Catskill, NY

Whether you are traveling near or far, you must take a detour to Catskill NY…. where you will find quiet, serenity, and the Thomas Cole National Historic Site. “We are still in Eden… Shall we turn from it?” was an expression of how Cole felt about the Catskill Mountain Region.

Thomas Cole was known as the most influential American artist of the nineteenth century. He founded this country’s first major art movement that was now known as the Hudson River School.

Located in the Village of Catskill, in the Hudson Valley at the foot of the Catskill Mountains, The Thomas Cole Site is part of the Hudson River Skywalk. The Hudson River School Art Trail connects you with the places in nature that Thomas Cole and the Hudson River School artists made famous in their 19th-century landscape paintings. The Collection of the Thomas Cole National Historic Site includes over six hundred objects and two research archives. Cole was a huge advocate for the preservation of the American landscape as a national treasure.

“The moment you witness the breathtaking mountain views from Cole’s porch, you’ll fully understand his devotion to landscape painting” – Times Union

The Museum shared that “He urged his fellow Americans to value and preserve the wild and natural beauty of the landscapes he depicted in his paintings. In his Essay on American Scenery, Cole wrote: I cannot but express my sorrow that the beauty of such landscapes is quickly passing away.“

“Being removed from the noise & bustle of the house is really charming.” He wrote.

Catskill, NY, is also full of places to stay, dine and explore. You can take a hike in the Great Northern Catskills, and find shops and galleries on historic Main Street. There are river activities such as fishing and boating. You can dine at waterfront restaurants. The Thomas Cole website can direct you on how to plan your entire trip around visiting them. I believe you’ll feel what Thomas Cole was trying to express about this region, when you are there in person.

218 Spring Street | Catskill, NY
WEB: thomascole.org
SOCIAL: IG @thomascolesite | FB @thomascolehistoricsite

WORLD AWARENESS CHILDREN’S MUSEUM
Glens Falls, NY

In beautiful Warren County, is the City of Glens Falls, NY, not far from the Adirondack Mountains. This gateway community to the Adirondack Mountain region is a wonderful place to visit with your family… and while there, you must explore The World Awareness Children’s Museum.

A hands on, interactive museum, The World Awareness Children’s Museum is full of Art Exhibits and a variety of programs. This museum houses a collection of pieces from 140 countries and includes 8,000+ artifacts (fashion, musical instruments, dolls, toys and other objects). Their creative learning space features art and artifacts. The museum’s permanent collection that includes 7,000 pieces of original children’s art from 81+ countries.

The World Awareness Children’s Museum’s mission is “To inspire curiosity and foster understanding and appreciation of worldwide cultural diversity.” “Art is truly the universal language“, shared by the museum. This NYS Designated Charter Museum has a passion to bring their diverse world to children, and they do this well.

“Our museum is a place where families can learn about our diverse world, encouraging them to engage curiosity when they encounter diversity in their community.” Bethanie Muska Lawrence – Executive Director

The Museum space is divided into the following hands on, interactive exhibit areas:
World Gallery, Home & Family Life, Animal Preserve Research Center, World Music, Textile Marketplace, World Fashion, Art Studio & Gallery.

WORLD AWARENESS CHILDREN’S MUSEUM : FREE ADMISSION DAYS!
June 11th and 12th from 12:00 am to 3:00 pm

When you do visit the City of Glen Falls NY, make sure you plan time to walk around and visit the restaurants and shops nearby. Plan to day to drive around the region looking for places that welcome you explore Warren County. With several small neighboring towns and cities nearby offering so much entertainment and activities for individuals of all ages, you may have to plan another trip back.

89 Warren Street | Glens Falls, NY
WEB: worldchildrensmuseum.org
SOCIAL: IG @worldkidsmuseum

MUSEUM OF INNOVATION AND SCIENCE
Schenectady, NY

When you visit this museum, you will instantly know and feel that this space was created for the young and the young at heart.

Founded in 1934, miSci has created a space that encourages learning, imagination, and creativity. In 1997, the Museum merged with the General Electric Hall of Electrical History and combined their collections. Now, more than 15,000 science and technology artifacts, thousands of advertising publications, 1,500 films, 400 audio recordings, and two million photographs document the history of electricity, electronics, and the impact of technological change.

The miSci has gallery space that you can wander through. Misci is a 44,270-square-foot facility that also houses The Suits-Beuche Planetarium, and thousands of curious individuals visit the museum to experience what the planetarium has to offer. You will find interactive exhibits and experiences at this creative museum that allow you to have fun and engage with the exhibits. It’s a wonderful space to be in, and this educational museum is for all ages.

The Mission & Vision of miSci :
At miSci, exhibitions, educational programs, and events are designed with our mission in mind: “To inspire people to celebrate and explore science and technology past, present, and future.” The Museum fulfills its mission by preserving and interpreting the history of technological change and its societal impact, helping visitors explore the creative processes that inspire discovery and invention – engaging visitors with interactive exhibitions and programs that encourage them to inquire about science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics. (STEAM)

The museum offers programs like the “miSci’s Little Edison’s program“, for kids ages 3 to 5. “A fun way to nurture the curiosity of pint-sized future engineers, chemists, and inventors.” is what’s shared on their website.

Also, If you haven’t had your birthday at a museum before, you can now! Host your child’s next birthday party at this museum too!

Schenectady, NY is full of incredible history that influenced, changed and moved this Country forward. There are many shops, great restaurants, and small locally owned businesses that fill up the downtown and surrounding area for locals and tourists to enjoy. This museum is worth visiting with your family. In the summer, just a short distance from the museum, you can experience the Harbor with live music along the Mohawk River. Schenectady is a great day trip destination, or you can stay for a long weekend.

15 Museum Drive | Schenectady, NY
WEB: misci.org
SOCIAL: IG @misci_ny | FB: @misciny

CAP NY ACTIVATE! : Destination Washington County

May 9, 2022 By Nellie Ackerman-Vellano

I remember being invited to a friend’s bonfire a little over 25 years ago. She had told me it was at her parents house in Shushan, NY. I’m not originally from New York, so I had never even heard of that town before. I was living in Schenectady at the time. We didn’t have cell phones or a GPS app back then. She emailed the directions to me, and I printed them out. I remember thinking to myself, “What place is she leading me to?”, I then got in my car and started driving towards Washington County.

As I was driving through towns like Greenwich and Salem to get to her house, I started to feel gratitude about the time it was taking to get there. I drove past barns, horses, farm stands, and country stores. Living in busy Cities around the world and in other US States, I hadn’t experienced a nice drive through the country since I was a little girl in Korea. It was such a peaceful and scenic drive. The ride seemed to fly by and before I knew it I had arrived at her house, greeted by other friends who also made their way there too.

As the night went on, we ate lots of great home cooked food, we sang songs around the fire led by an acoustic guitar, we told stories that made us laugh, and we made memories that I still think about today. For many of us that met at SCCC, this was our first time experiencing Shushan hospitality. I remember heading home and thinking how lucky my friend was to live in such a beautiful place. I remember that night like it was yesterday.

Since then we both have had children, and I’ve been able to bring my boys out to Shushan several times to play with her boys. Riding horses, playing in the mud, chasing chickens…. while us moms sit inside and catch up over cups of tea.

My family has since become familiar with many parts of Washington County over the years, and we always find new spots to explore and sites to visit with the kids. I’m so joyful to be able to share about a few places, out of so many wonderful places, to visit in Washington County.

This article is presented through a content collaboration with ACE and CapNY.
Visit us on Instagram at @upstatecreative and @gocapny

FORT SALEM THEATER

In June of 2021 a lovely little theater in Washington County opened to the public….new in spirit, but not new to Salem, NY. In order to share about this theater’s promising future, we have to take a quick look back at their inspiring past.

While being constructed as the countries First Presbyterian Church in 1774, it was taken by patriot forces and used as a staging area for troops. It was then known as Fort Salem. Lost to fire in 1777, the church was rebuilt by the Presbyterian, adding the chapel in 1882. In 1972 the building was privately purchased, a stage added, and the very first show in the Fort Salem Theater was enjoyed.

The theater sold again in 1979, and again in 2006 with major renovations taking place. In 2020, the Fort Salem Theater sold to the current owners Kyle and Jared West who had relocated to Salem from Dallas, Texas. In June 2021 the theater reopened with a sold-out show, and is still open today for all to enjoy in the many years to come.

Locals and visitors from all over the Region attend shows throughout the year to see well performed plays and great live acts. This well loved theater welcomes the community, neighboring communities, and anyone from outside of Washington County to visit and enjoy the variety of performances here.

If you’re looking for entertainment to enjoy with your family or friends, whether you’re staying in Salem or not…. I recommend taking a peek at the playlist for this venue and buying tickets to one of their shows. It’s a nice drive to Salem, NY on your way to the Fort Salem Theater.

11 East Broadway | Salem, New York 12865
Web: fortsalem.com | IG: @fortsalem

SALEM ART WORKS

Whether you’re a master of a brush on canvas, or if you’ve never picked up a creative tool before…. Salem Art Works welcomes you and your curiously creative heart. Located in Salem, NY, on 119 acres, artists from around the globe retreat to SAW for stay, community, inspiration, and reflection.

Locals and out of town travelers come to visit this artists retreat center and tour the grounds that are covered with artists workshop buildings & spaces, an artist created tiny home community, and natural gathering spaces. Incredible and larger than life sculptures greet you as soon as you turn off the main road, and escort you all the way through the grounds and up the drive to the top of the hill….where you will find an incredible view and a peace that makes you pause, in silence, as you appreciate the knowing that this unselfish space was created for you and everyone else who visits.

SAW also offers summer camps and workshops for young artists and any one aspiring to be one to learn a trade like welding, pottery, glassblowing or blacksmith. The retreat center has programs where entire families can stay on site and participate in various workshops together or individually. Live music takes place at the highest point on the grounds, overlooking the entire Town of Salem, and all are welcome.

If you’re looking for a unique day trip experience or week long destination vacation, I encourage you to add Salem Art Works to your creative bucket list of places to visit and contact them today to register for one of their workshops. For a full listing of programs and events visit the website.

19 Cary Lane | Salem, New York 12865
Web: salemartworks.org | IG: @salemartworks

JACKO’S CORNER

A real old fashioned soda fountain isn’t something that you see anymore these days… but a working one too, while sitting at a vintage inspired soda shop bar? You’ll find that Jacko’s Corner in Salem, NY, has that kind of “bubbly fun” for you to experience in their restaurant on Main Street.

It’s already well known by the locals that they have a great menu, but what also makes this spot a great destination spot for out of towner’s is that they have great food AND an awesome concert series featuring talented musicians around the region. Described by Jacko’s as “Cozy vibes, flowing wine & beer at Jacko’s”. You can enjoy a nice meal, good drinks, and great live music with your family, friends or even make it a date night.

They have wonderful artwork created by local artists hung around the restaurant too, and for sale. Many of the pieces share the story of Salem, NY and the community that has embraced and inspired them. Jacko’s supports the community and the creatives within it, and enthusiastically shares about them with all of their guests that visit.

If you’re desiring to go on a day trip…. I recommend exploring Washington County, and setting your GPS to stop at Jacko’s Corner Restaurant for a good meal, soda fountain drink, and don’t forget to take some local artwork home as well.

190 Main Street | Salem, New York 12865
Web: jackoscorner.com | IG: @jackoscorner

ANNUAL SASQUATCH CALLING CONTEST & FESTIVAL

Have you ever heard a Sasquatch call out in the wild? Well, if you’re curious about how one might sound, you can hear a variety of individuals share out loud what they think one might sound like.

I attended the very first Sasquatch Festival in Whitehall, NY, back in 2016 with my youngest son who at the time was fascinated by the Sasquatch. A friend who lives in Whitehall messaged me about the new “Sasquatch festival” that was being created by their town. Of course we had to go. Now in their sixth year, this has become a much anticipated annual event.

There are vendor tables around the festival set up who have plaster molds of Sasquatch footprints on display, and photos of Sasquatch sightings. You can even photograph yourself behind a giant Sasquatch cutter, and send it to your friends showing them what you’d look like a giant life sized Sasquatch.

The best part of the event in my opinion, is the Sasquatch calling contest that everyone waits for all year long. There’s an adult contest and even one for the kids to sign up and do their own version of a Sasquatch call. I had never imagined what a Sasquatch sounded like, but now I have about dozens of variations in my mind of what one could sound like. LOL. It’s really just a community gathering together and having a lot of fun.

If you’re looking for a family friendly event to take the kids too in Washington County, or if you’re a serious Sasquatch hunter yourself, I recommend marking your calendar and heading to Whitehall, NY for the day for their annual Sasquatch Calling Contest & Festival.

DATE: Saturday | September 24, 2022 : Sasquatch Calling Contest & Festival
TIME: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Calling Contest at 5:00 PM

Highlights Include: Over 50 Vendors. Over 10 Bigfoot presentations with experts and research, Live Music, Beer Garden, Bounce House and Face Painting for the kids! Bigfoot Calling contest, delicious food, Bigfoot statue Raffle. Fun for all, rain or shine.

Skenesborough and Riverside Parks | 130 Main Street | Whitehall, New York 12887
Web: Whitehall Chamber of Commerce

BLIND BUCK VALLEY FARM

Chickens greet you before you can make it to the front door of the Blind Buck Valley Farmstead House, where you are welcomed in by the Parker family. As soon as you drive up the dirt road leading to the 180 acre farm, you’ll see aged red barns and a big white farm home that invites you to stay. The five bedroom farm house is filled with books and games, and play spaces for children. There’s a spacious living room where adults and friends can gather. Unplugged, so you can enjoy all the memorable moments of the time you spend here.

You can also opt to experience Glamping and stay in a teepee on their teepee campsite.

The Blind Buck Valley Farm offers a beautiful and quiet vacation experience for individual families, couples, groups of friends, wedding parties, and even bridal showers. There are goats and donkeys, and ponies and other farm animals on the grounds that kids and adults can interact with while staying on the farm. There’s a pool in the back of the house, open in the warmer season. There’s lots of ground to walk and explore.

There’s a large hill near the house, that tempted the inner child in me to climb up it and roll down it. I resisted during my visit, but the next time I come to this wonderful family friendly farm, I may have to let the kid in me run free.

If you’re looking for a getaway destination that is a hidden gem, less then 45 minutes from Saratoga Springs, NY, I recommend adding the Blind Buck Family Farmstead to your Salem, NY vacation stay list.

116 Riley Hill Road | Salem, New York 12865
Web: bbvfarmstead.com | IG: @blindbuckvalley_farmstead

SALEM ART WORKS : A Conversation with Pearl Cafritz – Executive Director

May 4, 2022 By Corey Aldrich

My first exposure to SAW was through the ‘Things To Do’ section in back of The Metroland (RIP). There was a listing for a quirky music festival called SAWFEST. I went, saw and heard and ever since, I have been a big fan of this amazing institution. I first met Pearl through previous ACE! Executive Director Maureen Sager. We did an event together and I came to appreciate just how much Pearl had to offer SAW and the region at large. And now…you too are on the inside track.

Pearl Cafritz, Executive Director at Salem Art Works — Photo: Corey Aldrich

Please state your name, title, and what you do at Salem Art Works (SAW). How many employees do you have on campus and what do they oversee?

I am Pearl Cafritz, Executive Director. I oversee administration, programs, and strategic planning. There are twelve staff currently. The administrative team is comprised of a Director of Programs, a Coordinator of Workshops, a Director of Development, and a Graphic Designer. The studios each have a director as well including: blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, foundry and welding. We also have a sculpture park manager, a young artist coordinator, a seasonal chef and housekeeper.

Entrance to Salem Art Works — Photo: Corey Aldrich

Can you share a little bit about your education and background pre-SAW. Curious about the other places you have worked and learned your expertise from.

Originally from Saratoga Springs, my journey to creative problem solving began while working at my family’s hardware store, Farmers Hardware. I earned my Bachelor of Fine Arts from The College of Saint Rose with a concentration in sculpture. My background in exhibit installation and art handling took me to museums like The Guggenheim, The American Museum of Natural History, The Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum, and The Whitney. Pursuing the contemporary division of art shipping allowed me to travel, oversee import / exports and coordinate crews installing at various art fairs including Basel Switzerland & Miami, Frieze London, and Venice Biennale. I had the privilege of working directly with Matthew Barney as a set builder for Cremaster 3 and assisted Kiki Smith at the International Center of Photography.

As an art world entrepreneur, I started my own art handling company inspired by the Art Basel scene in Miami, Florida.

Salem ARt Works pieces from the ceramic kiln — From the Ceramic Kiln | Photo: Corey Aldrich

Can you tell us more about the mission and varied programming that you oversee?

The SAW mission is to provide a unique alternative arts learning and experimental environment for young, emerging, and established artists. In addition to a variety of artist residencies, SAW prides itself in its youth programming and workshop offerings. For example, In 2021 ‘Salem Teen Arts‘ taught 31 teens valuable art skills such as glass blowing, watercolor painting, acrylic painting, welding, pottery throwing, and welding.

Starting this year, we are offering a ‘Family Friendly Residency‘ which will allow families of teen artists to stay on campus and take advantage of workshop offerings. For the summer of 2022, we have families joining us from as far away as Washington state and Florida.

Over the past few seasons we have seen a dramatic increase in our workshop offerings. Our capital improvements have allowed us to winterize most of our shops, thus expanding our workshop schedules in a variety of disciplines including:

Blacksmithing, Welding, Making Natural Paints and Pigments, Painting, Retaining Wall Restoration, Woodturning and Stone carving

Barn Construction Shot — Barn Facility Upgrade | Photo: Michael Hatzel

How has COVID affected your programming and facilities over the last couple of years?

COVID imposed a variety of challenges on our operation, the result was an opportunity for re-examination of our procedures and processes. In March 2020, we temporarily postponed our the public programming scheduled for the 2020 season. Having this imposed breather allowed us to refine our administrative procedures, policies and programs. Additionally, we used this time to make several improvements to our facilities.

Image of teen boy and girl working in a blacksmithing shop. — Salem Teen Arts – Blacksmithing | Photo: Michael Hatzel

Young Student Grinding a Piece of Metal — Salem Teen Arts – Metal Shop | Photo: Michael Hatzel

It seems like SAW is an important part of the greater community at large in Salem and the immediate area. Can you talk a bit about your outside collaborations and partnerships?

I am actively seeking opportunities for our artists in residence as well as for local artists. Currently SAW has partnered with North Main Street Gallery, Railroad Station Gallery, North Bennington Outdoor Sculpture Park, HN Williams, Lower Adirondack Regional Arts Council, Kingsborough Community College, Southern Vermont Art Center, Elizabeth de C. Wilson Museum, Salem Historic Community Center, The Art Center of the Capital Region, Union College, Collar works, and MASS MoCA.

I also serve on the Salem Chamber of Commerce, our 4th of July Parade Committee, and have begun working with Jackos (A downtown Salem Restaurant/Gathering Space) to provide public programming which will begin this summer.

Students pouring molten iron into molds — Iron Pour with Hartwick College Students | Photo: Michael Hatzel

Student making an iron pour mold design — Mold Making for an Iron Pour | Photo: Michael Hatzel

Anything coming up that you are especially excited about that you would like to share?

Now in it’s 2^nd year, the ‘NY/VT Regional Artist Residency‘ will host 10 artists who live and work in one of the two states and that have an income of $50,000 or less. This takes place from June 20th to July 5^th. Artists will live and work at SAW for two weeks with a $500 unrestricted honorarium. Our goal with this residency is for the artists to see themselves as part of our region while generating new opportunities and growth.

Artwork created during the residency will be on view during a closing Artist Reception Friday, July 1st from 5-7 PM.

This is the 11th season of ‘salem2salem’, an international multi-disciplinary exchange between SAW and the Bodenseekreis (Cultural Department of Lake Constance in Salem Germany) which brings together 20 artists from August 8th to August 29th. The group will include 4 artists from Australia, 1 artist from Romania, 10 artists from Germany, and 5 artists from the USA. An open studio event with work created during the residency on Friday, August 19th from 5-7 PM will include live music, readings and fine art.

To join the mailing list, register for a program / class or to see the full program/workshop/event calendar drop by the website.

WEB: salemartworks.com | IG / FB: @salemartworks