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Cravings Bakery Opens This Tuesday, March 7th, at Cayadutta Street Location Those who crave Ashley Alikhan’s homemade cupcakes, cookies and brownies will be pleased and excited to visit 47 Cayadutta Street on March 7th as Cravings Bakery & Café will be officially open for business, starting at 10 a.m. A ribbon cutting ceremony will be held prior to the doors opening. Ashley was busy on Friday afternoon with preparations for the big event, but she took a few minutes to share her enthusiasm for baking and for family. Surviving both a COVID pandemic shut down in 2020 and a car crashing into building on West Fulton Street that created devastating damage, she has been sharing updates on the progress of her new building on Cayadutta Street and how she focuses on details of making customers feel invited into the bakery and how she incorporated family into the business. This post on Cravings’ Facebook Page describes the entryway of the business that once was a fire department facility: “When you walk into the bakery, I want the first feeling that comes over you to be happiness, and the second hunger. I want you to talk about these memories with excitement and remember the details like I do of places I used to go that always brought me joy! I want little details, like walls covered in ‘sprinkles’ to stand out in your mind! Or have you say, ‘the bakery with the pink boxes!’ Or ‘the bakery with 12 or more different cupcake flavors every day to pick from!’ The entryway to the bakery was very important to me, because it’s the first thing you’re walking into, and it’s going to set your entire mood while you’re there!” Once inside, the walls (painted in official Cake Baker color) showcase Ashley’s love for her grandparents as she has a heart-shaped display of rolling pins dedicated to “Papa” and the menu is written in her grandmother’s handwriting. Per her FB posts on the Cravings site: “I love my Grandma Betty’s handwriting, and like my Aunt and Sister have, I too have always wanted to get a little tattoo with the exact writing from one of my birthday or Christmas cards from her, that reads ‘love you, Grandma Betty,’ but I’m just too chicken. And one of my most favorites, that I could never mimic, was my other Grandmas. It was perfect, so smooth, and it flowed so gracefully like the musical notes of the loveliest song you’ve ever heard. I admired it everywhere I saw it, and I knew I had to have it in the bakery somewhere, somehow! Much like the rolling pins, one day it hit me, my menu! …. My menu is written with my grandma's handwriting, tears filled my eyes when I picked it up, and I feel her here when I look up at it. It’s perfect, absolutely perfect.” “My Papa is the one who helped me grow my rolling pin collection! Anywhere he’d go, like an estate sale or garage sale, he’d always search for or ask about any rolling pins they may have. He’d tell them how it was for me at my bakery, and how I hang them in the windows, and that they should stop down to try out my sweets! I can just picture him beaming with pride as he tells them, and it warms my heart whenever I think about it. At the new bakery I wanted to do something special with my collection, even though I loved hanging them in the windows, I wanted something different here. And when I look at this wall, it literally represents the love my papa has and has always had for me, and now Ellie. There are pieces of so many people’s lives here with me now, rolling pins their grandmothers used for years and years and years. I’ve even had some people bring me their families’ rolling pin, someone even made me one, and to say I’m honored because they’d think of me is an understatement.” Stay. Play. Explore. Live. Discover Downtown Gloversville

Local Library and Museums Have Adventures on Every Shelf Go on an adventure right in Gloversville by exploring three local, unique and beautiful assets dedicated to knowledge, history and community. In the Downtown Gloversville Corridor lies the great Gloversville Public Library at 58 E. Fulton St. It is home to 37,000 plus reading materials ranging from books to magazines to newspapers to microfilm. Reading is a fun activity that opens the mind to adventures that could be had right at home, from exploring the oceans to solving mysteries. Dedicated to being a place of lifelong learning, the library grows with its users, ensuring it keeps up with technology and the new ways people access learning. From DVDs, to audiobooks, from basic Internet to Wi-Fi, to computers and printers, the library continues to help the public gain knowledge. It also offers a variety of classes for all ages. History and architecture enthusiasts enjoy exploring the library as it is one of 2,500 libraries funded by Andrew Carnegie that were built around the world between 1883 and 1929. Those searching for family ties, or the history of Gloversville will find 1,200 volumes that cover the city and the region in the Historical Room. For more information on the library, including hours visit gloversvillelibrary.org Just outside the Downtown Gloversville Corridor lies the Fulton County Museum at 237 Kingsboro Ave. The building was once the Kingsboro Academy, established in 1831. As the facility started off as a learning institution, it’s permanent displays including those dedicated to the railroad, glove industry, schools, and military, continues to educate the public. The museum hosts special events and activities to keep people engaged in history in a fun way. For a list of upcoming events, visit fultoncountyhistoricalsociety.org Also, on the perimeter of the Downtown Corridor lies the Karpeles Museum. A manuscript museum, it also houses historical documents and artifacts, including displays dedicated to baseball, another favorite local history topic. The Gloversville site opened in 2020 and is one of almost a dozen Karpeles museums throughout the country. To learn more, visit karpeles.com Take your time exploring these buildings and exhibits and discover Gloversville through your own unique experiences. Stay. Play. Explore. Live. Discover Downtown Gloversville

Spend Time Relaxing and Reducing Stress with Yoga in Gloversville Looking for something different to do in Gloversville? Try yoga! When walking down West Fulton Street, it’s hard to resist stopping at 11 W. Fulton Street as the sign in the window boasts, “Come In, We Are Awesome.” Into Wishin’ Studio & Crystal Shop has a variety of instructors for yoga and other meditative exercises, all with the goal of helping people obtain physical and mental balance and achieve true relaxation. According to medicalnewstoday.com, yoga is popular with one in seven adults in this country. It is an ancient practice that brings together mind, body and spirit. In addition to mental health benefits, yoga improves flexibility, builds strength, increases muscle tone and improves balance. Once such class is called “Sun Salutation Flow '' and it is 75 minutes of stretching and flowing with the music. While the name of the moves such as Down Dog and Cat Pose sound whimsical, they help get the blood flowing through the entire body and stretches all muscles. For more information and class schedules, visit intowishinstudio.com. Other places to find yoga, meditation and more, include Glove Cities Yoga at 24 Prospect Street. For their classes, visit glovecitiesyoga.com. The Gloversville Public Library also offers meditative classes that are currently on Zoom but the Qi Gong session is in person at the Rail Trail Park in the summertime. For the library’s offerings, visit www.gloversvillelibrary.org Stay. Play. Explore. Live. Discover Downtown Gloversville

Murals and Artists Brighten Gloversville on a Winter’s Day The weather outside can be frightful this time of year but despite the weather, there is plenty of art to be seen in Downtown Gloversville. The AGORA Marketplace, located at 50 N. Main St., is currently hosting the Winter 2022-2023 FulMont Junior Artist Contest. Not only does this give young and inspiring artists a chance to showcase their talent, it gives the community a chance to view art during the doldrums of winter. (Be sure to vote for your favorite when you visit. Details can be seen here. Winners will be announced Feb. 18th). This exhibit will be on display through March 1st, but AGORA Marketplace showcase artists, culture and talent from Fulton County throughout the year. Micropolis Art Gallery, nestled inside the Mohawk Harvest Cooperative Market at 30 N. Main St., also allows artists to shine year-round. In addition to showing and selling pieces throughout the year, the Micropolis Cooperative Art Gallery also hosts six shows a year, with receptions opening the exhibits by giving audiences a chance to find out what sparked the artist to make their pieces. Currently on display are sparky new glass vases and bowls by Cheryl Gutmaker, heart pins by Cindy Sheeler, and cards by all the Micropolis artists. For more information, visit here. As the cold eases up and we see the sun more, be sure to take a walk around Downtown Gloversville to see some murals that also help brighten your day. Right on Main Street is “Re-Imagine Gloversville,” located in the window at 39 N. Main St. In 2018, artist Nicolina Schonfarber was commissioned to create a piece based off the thoughts, ideas and drawings that were collected from community members at the 2017 Bacon Jam. In nearby Castiglione Park is a giant mural dedicated to reading and books. After reading the great art and promotional ad for literacy, the admirer can grab a book from the Little Free Library next to the piece or visit the Cat’s Meow Book Shop in the AGORA across the street. Artist Lawrence Clarke noted he worked on the Dragon portion of the mural in 2010. Just off Main Street at nearby St. Thomas Place, is a 19 by 25-foot mural on the side of the GoodbuyZ Liquidation Outlets (12 St. Thomas Place). Created by artist Alyssa Johnson, called the “FJG Mural,” it showcases Gloversville’s railroad history. Visit here for Johnsons’ video montage of her working on the piece. On the Rail Trail near Train Station Park on West Fulton Street is an older mural, also dedicated to the railroad history in the city. It has been there since at least 2009. Not in Downtown Gloversville, but worth seeing, are two murals in other parts of the city. The newest one is located at Gloversville High School, 199 Lincoln St., and was created by artist Hannah Williams and students from the school. A view of the Great Sacandaga Lake, it is 7.5 by 15 feet and took the artists six days to complete. Be sure to call ahead to the school at (518) 775-5710 before viewing to see what hours are available to the public. A mosaic waterfall mural is housed at the Nathan Littauer Hospital and Nursing Home, located at 99 E. State St. Created in 2019 with lead artists Tammy Merendo, Linda Biggers and Susan Ruscitto, the mural is actually six giant sections that was placed together on the side of a wall that one can admire while sitting in Littauer’s Reflection Garden. It is located on the first floor between the hospital and the Primary Care Center. Be sure to call ahead at (518) 725-8621 to verify viewing hours that are typically between 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Stay. Play. Explore. Live. Discover Downtown Gloversville

Finding Family History in Gloversville When the temperature is below zero and the wind chill makes it even colder, it’s hard to find the motivation to go exploring outside. Despite the chill in the air, discovering Gloversville and its history can still be done as there are many social media and websites dedicated to the history and culture of the Glove city. I recently took advantage of these resources as I have discovered my great-parents were married and living in Gloversville in the early to mid-1900s. It is amazing to walk the streets of Gloversville and see some of the same buildings they saw such as the Glove Theatre (built in 1914) and the Gloversville Public Library (constructed in 1904). Many postcards depict that time period, and several are housed at the library’s resource room. The family didn’t know much about George Erwin Conkling, and we only have two photos of him. One is taken of him working as a blacksmith. I found a wedding announcement that was published in a Gloversville paper in February 1913: “George E. Conkling and Miss Susie Edwards, both of Gloversville, were united in marriage yesterday at 5:30, at the parsonage of the St. James Lutheran Church. Rev. Joel E. Grubb, the pastor, performed the ceremony and Mr. and Mrs. Conkling Departed for a short wedding trip with the best wishes of a large circle of friends. The bridegroom is employed by John Myers, a coach maker, on Montgomery Street and the bride is a popular and well known woman of this city. They were attended by Mr. and Mrs. A.A. Blue.” Through the Gloversville U.S. City Directories that can be found online and at the Gloversville Public Library’s Resource Room, I discovered George E. Conkling lived at 124 Fremont Street from 1913 to 1918 and worked at 9 Montgomery Street. I couldn’t find anything more on Susie in Gloversville and could only imagine that she worked in a nearby factory such as Zimmer and Son Glove Factory on South Arlington Avenue until she gave birth to my grandfather in 1913 as her obituary noted she worked as a glove worker in various local places. While there is still to be known about their Gloversville years, walking the streets, meeting people and researching online and in person with local resources have filled in the gaps. If you are interested in the history of Gloversville or your family’s history in that city, you may want to make an appointment to visit the Gloversville Public Library’s Resource Room for a great first step in your detective work. Fulton County Real Property Tax Service Agency’s Image Mate Online service is another tool that can help give history of buildings. The Fulton County Historian may also be of assistance and her office information can be found at this website. Gloversville’s history can also be found at the city's website. Facebook pages Gloversville History and Pictorial History of Gloversville have great photos to view of Gloversville's past. Stay. Play. Explore. Live. Discover Downtown Gloversville

New Families Have Fun with Old Fan Film Favorites at the Glove For a person who isn’t into NFL football or likes winter, January and February can be long months in upstate New York. The Glove Theatre has been alleviating some of that Cabin Fever with free movies on Wednesdays, as well as a family feature on Sundays that is co-sponsored by the Gloversville Recreation Commission. The most recent was 1982’s “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.” As a child of the ‘80s that grew up loving Reese’s Pieces, muttering “Phone Hooome” and knowing Henry Thomas had more of an acting career than starring in current Netflix series such as “The Haunting of Hill House,” it was a treat to watch the Steven Spielberg directed flick on the big screen once again. Entering the building, the smell of freshly made popcorn filled the air. The concession stand was busy selling goodies, including an array of Reese’s treats, and sweets from nearby Mohawk Harvest. When Michael Maricondi, General Manager of the Glove introduced the film, he asked how many were new to coming to the Glove. Half the audience raised their hands. This movie is not the only event the historic theatre offers as it also is the setting for live and filmic performances, community events, dance parties, educational opportunities, and more. Just last month, the Glove hosted the Caroga Arts Ensemble for a special performance of the Tchaikovsky Holiday Spectacular. According to Maricondi in a recent correspondence, the Glove Theatre was established in 1914 and served on the Schinke Family Circuit for Vaudeville and early cinema. It transitioned into being a movie house until the 1970s. Following a series of structural neglect, the theatre was saved from demolition in 1995 by a volunteer Board of Directors and has served as a community theatre and performing arts venue. In recent years, it has hosted a world-premiere children’s musical, Kampfire Stories, weekly free movie series, monthly variety shows, concerts, plays and musicals, dance parties and more. I shared this experience with my tween who enjoys “Stranger Things”, and we had a blast seeing where the Netflix show got some of its ideas and throwbacks to ‘80s fashion from the film. It was equally as nice seeing families on Sunday sharing a similar special moment watching a movie at the Glove. This coming Wednesday (Feb. 1) at the Glove is the showing of “Everything, Everywhere All at Once” at 2 and 7 p.m., and Sunday’s (Feb. 5) feature is “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.” Stay. Play. Explore. Live. Discover Downtown Gloversville

Celebrate Valentine’s Day in an Unconventional Way in Downtown Gloversville Support Downtown Gloversville businesses this Valentine’s Day with purchases of jewelry, clothing, flowers, chocolates and sweets … and with a gesture to the local animal shelter. Love comes in all forms from sweetheart love to family love, to love for our four-legged animals. Nestled in Downtown Gloversville near the Train Station Park is a tiny shelter filled with big love for animals who need homes. As Valentine’s Day approaches and you shop Downtown Gloversville to find that perfect gift for your love, think about the Fulton County Regional SPCA and how their animals can benefit the holiday that celebrates adoration, devotion and endearment. In January 2022, shortly after animal advocate and beloved star Betty White passed away, the Fulton County Regional SPCA hosted a campaign asking for donations or adoptions in the honor of Betty. The month prior, like Betty White, our beloved 15-year-old German shepherd mix passed away and we were at a loss. The house was too quiet and we had a big void to fill. We looked at what was available on the website and then decided to fill out the application to adopt and waited to see what would happen. Founded in 2002, the non-profit shelter is a 100 percent volunteer-run organization and one called us within a week and said they checked with our veterinarian who gave us a glowing review and she wanted to know if we would like to come down and meet the dog we were interested in. He was a bundle of joy that was so excited to meet us. Our teen children enjoyed playing with him in the yard while we spoke with the volunteer who made sure we were ready for a large puppy commitment. Once we were approved by the dog – and the shelter – we were able to take him home the following week after his vet checkup. About a month after he came home, I decided to take him to dog obedience class as a way to establish a bond with him. When he graduated, his photo went on the school’s Facebook Page and the Fulton County Regional SPCA was the first to comment, cheering him on. In addition to adoptions, the agency offers pet food pantry events where they allow animal owners to pick up food for their dogs as a way to give back to the community and help those who might find themselves in need. One such pantry event was held on Jan. 21st and many generous donors and local businesses give supplies. Glove Cities Veterinary Hospital (located just outside the Downtown Gloversville region at 35 Harrison St.) was one that dropped off donations for the event. (https://fb.watch/idy7jv0fMx/) While adoption is a big commitment, there are other ways to show love for the animals. It may be an unconventional Valentine’s Date, but you can celebrate the holiday by taking your love to the shelter’s fundraiser, the 9th annual Chili Cook-off, held the weekend after Valentine’s Day on Feb. 19th. Donations in the name of your love can also be a way to celebrate Valentine’s Day. In addition to monetary donations, the shelter always needs supplies: https://fcrspca.org/donate/needed-supplies. There is no right way to celebrate Valentine’s Day but helping others, such as our four-legged friends, is a great way to honor the day dedicated to love. Stay. Play. Explore. Live. Discover Downtown Gloversville

Books Give Readers Adventures … and a Stroll Through Downtown Gloversville In search of a good book? Put on your hiking shoes for a tour of Downtown Gloversville as the city gives many opportunities for book enthusiasts to find their next reading adventure. The Gloversville Public Library, located at 58 E. Fulton Street, houses thousands upon thousands (37,000 + to be exact) of stories, books, magazines, graphic novels, newspapers, articles and more for the avid reader. Several book clubs and discussions are also available. If you don’t have a library card, it is easy to get one! To learn more about the Gloversville Public Library, visit gloversvillelibrary.org. In addition to the public library, there are eight Little Free Libraries that are tended to by Gloversville Enlarged School District volunteers, five of which are directly in Downtown Gloversville. Readers can take a book, free of charge and either be kept or given back. Whittling down your own home library? Give donations to these boxes for others to read. The goal of Little Free Libraries is to increase access to books for readers of all ages and backgrounds. To learn more about the program, visit www.gesdk12.org/article/746962 Another Little Free Library is nestled inside the Mohawk Harvest Cooperative Market on Main Street, where there is plenty of space to sit and read, take in a meal and listen to music (mohawkharvest.org). Take the Downtown Gloversville Library Trail as it visits all these book locations. Start at the Elm Street Park (Near Glove City Pizza and Fulton Street), heads down to the Gloversville Public Library, then travel to a stop at the Freemont Community Garden (110 Freemont Street) before heading to Main Street where little libraries are found at the Mohawk Harvest at 30 N. Main St., and Castiglione Memorial Park at 47 N. Main St. The trail ends in Downtown Gloversville at the AGORA Marketplace (50 N. Main St.) as the Cat’s Meow Book Shop, a mini-used bookstore where readers can find some books penned by their favorite authors at a reasonable price, is housed inside (www.facebook.com/CatsMeowBookShop). While browsing to find a book to purchase, readers and trail users can also purchase a yummy treat of bagels, muffins, cupcakes and more at The Happy Mug Café. A bonus stop on the trail is the Little Free Library station at nearby Kingsborough Elementary School. While readers will find their treasures of books at each stop, those who like urban hiking will also enjoy the Gloversville Library Trail as just the Downtown Corridor is 2.1 miles one-way. Feeling especially energetic or still looking for that perfect book? Be sure to stop at the Little Free Libraries at Boulevard, McNab and Park Terrace Elementary Schools, and at Spring Street Park. This trail is a great way to explore the city, get some fresh air and pick up a book, or two, or three! Stay. Play. Explore. Live. Discover Downtown Gloversville

Pamper Yourself in Downtown Gloversville We hear the term “self-care” a lot these days, especially after the massive pressures that occurred during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Self-care is defined to be the practice of taking action to preserve or improve one's health or taking an active role in protecting one’s own well-being and happiness. Food choices, exercise, taking time to participate in activities that are joyful … all these play into taking care of oneself. Recently, I had a day of self-care in Downtown Gloversville and the activities I found to be relaxing and fun, are also events that anyone can participate in just for fun or ways to explore the City of Gloversville. The Mohawk Harvest Cooperative Market at 30 N. Main St. is more than what its website (https://mohawkharvest.org) touts it to be of being a “community-minded, community-owned grocery store.” In existence for 13 years, it hosts special events, music and most recently, specialty Breakfast at the Harvest days. I decided to treat myself to breakfast where I could order what I wanted and not have to go to the store and fight crowds to purchase the ingredients or waste my “self-care time” cleaning up after myself. The day I went, it was cold and dreary outside, but the atmosphere inside the Mohawk was warm and inviting. Local musician, Michelle King, was performing as many were enjoying their breakfasts. Numerous people were there eating, shopping, and looking at artwork in the Micropolis Cooperative Art Gallery. The place was hopping! The clerk greeted everyone with a warm smile and offered assistance to all. This newcomer asked how “this whole breakfast thing worked.” She laughed and said orders were being taken in the back and I could either take it to go, or it would be served to me where I sat and when I was done, I could come back to her to check out. Today’s breakfast special was omelets, home fries and toast and the omelets had a wide variety of items you could ask to be added from spinach to ham to onions and peppers to bacon. I asked for spinach and mushrooms and for a side order of wheat toast. While waiting for my meal, I looked around at all the grocery items available for purchase and immediately noticed the local names. Bags of coffee from Upstate Coffee, located in Gloversville, and milk from Dygert Creamery located in nearby Montgomery County are only a few of the many local affiliates. As the tables began filling up, I immediately plopped down at one to ensure a place to enjoy my meal. Soon after, out came a plate full of fresh and hot home fries and a large omelet. I read some newspapers online while eating and listening to Michelle King soothe the crowd with tunes from my era. I was immediately full and as I told the cook, I was “fat and happy” after my meal. Next up on my self-care outing in Gloversville was a stop at SW The Spa (https://sw-dayspa.com), located at 23 Freemont Street, a location they have been at since 2016. My parents had given me a gift certificate and I had never had a massage or facial, so this was a brand-new experience for me. I was scheduled for an aromatherapy massage and a hydra glow express enzyme facial. After checking in, I was sent to get my robes and sit in the relaxing waiting area with a warm fireplace, inviting chairs, refreshing flavored water and soothing music. Amber came for me shortly after and brought me to her massage room. I told her I had never done this before, so she talked me through how she was going to perform the message and asked me what I was comfortable with and if I had concerns. Her warm smile and thorough knowledge put me at ease. I felt very comfortable as I laid on the heated table and she put a hot towel on my back. I could feel my muscles immediately start to relax but I told Amber that my worst habit was something she probably couldn’t help with… I could never shut my brain off. At night, I have a hard time going to sleep as a million thoughts go through my head. She laughed and said yes, it typically takes about 10 to 15 minutes for a person to actually settle in before going to sleep. As she worked on me, we talked about our animals and soon I felt like I was ready to nap. Feeling completely soothed at the end of my 45-minute session, I was ready to head home for that nap that was calling but Amber reminded me that I had a facial appointment with Barbara. Barbara was also very helpful in keeping me comfortable. She did start by taking imaging photos of my face to see what damage the sun and environment may have done to the layers underneath. As a person who was a teen in the ‘80s when sun worshipping was in and no real knowledge of sunscreen (oils were a must for a deeper, cooler looking tan back then), she showed me that my skin was actually in pretty decent shape, but she would show me how to keep it looking good and help it glow. Off we went to her station. Exfoliating, massaging, masks and more were part of my treatment and like the massage, it was very relaxing with her soothing voice and soft music piped into the room. It was hard to believe I was there for almost two hours as the time passed quickly. I left with not only recommendations for further treatments and suggestions for home care, but with a sense of calmness that I had not experienced in a long time. And I was still full, “fat and happy” from my Mohawk Harvest breakfast. Stay. Play. Explore. Live. Discover Downtown Gloversville

Food, Fun and Facts on the FJ&G Rail Trail While I had walked the FJ&G Rail Trail in the summer weather numerous times, I never thought to explore it in the wintertime. I recently had the opportunity to strap on the snowshoes and get some fresh air from Train Station Park through the Downtown Gloversville corridor. Before venturing out, I decided to make it a themed day of eating at the Palace Diner, a diner created from a railroad car, before hitting the former railroad tracks for some exercise. The Palace Diner, located at 62 S. Main St., has been a staple in Downtown Gloversville for almost 100 years. During the early 1900s, lunch wagons or lunch carts were very popular and were adopted from old railroad cars. As seen in this newspaper photo, the Palace Diner was built by the Jerry O’Mahony Dining Car Company of Bayonne, N.J., and was shipped to the area via railroad. Upon entering, I could see the railcar atmosphere in the tiny diner. While the space was small, the building was filled with warmth and was inviting. At the counter, were the regulars, giving the place a vibe that was a cross between “Cheers” where everyone knows your name, and any Stewart’s Shop where the morning coffee clutch has already solved the world’s problems by 8 a.m. I sat down on a stool at the front of the counter and the chef, Richard, greeted me with a great big smile and asked if I wanted coffee. The cup was the old-time large porcelain mug that immediately brought memories of childhood and my grandfather’s daily dose of caffeine. I ordered a cheese omelet with home fries and rye toast and watched Richard whip up a hot, fresh meal for me within minutes. He laughed as he saw my eyes get big at the huge portion that he placed in front of me and said, “We do have to-go containers.” I ate as much as I could as the homemade comfort food filled me quickly. I boxed the rest of my food and headed out the door. The next stop for me was Train Station Park on West Fulton Street. Located at the park is a “trail head” or parking area for the FJ&G Rail Trail. The trail was created in the mid-1990s, using the unused railroad bed from the former FJ&G Railroad and turned it into 8 plus miles of scenic byway that is used for walking, biking and more. Train Station Park is home to a rail car, a throwback to railroad history. The Fonda, Johnstown, and Gloversville (FJ&G) Railroad was incorporated in 1867 and was a 100 plus mile railroad system. During the 1870 up to the 1980s, the passenger rails carried a variety of employees from the local glove industry to Schenectady, where they continued their travels to New York City or Chicago. Freight was also transported from the FJ&G to the New York Central and the Delaware and Hudson railroads to the world beyond upstate New York. While you are in an urban setting and do have to cross several streets on your journey on the Rail Trail through the City of Gloversville, there are pretty nature scenes too, especially along the creek. I happen to see several ducks in the water on my winter journey and last summer I was lucky to see a deer crossing the trail near Darling Field. The morning I ventured out, the gluttony of Christmas had caught up with me and I had fatigued quickly. Snowshoeing is an excellent low-impact aerobic exercise and is very helpful when venturing out on somewhat icy terrain. While snowshoeing helps burn numerous calories, I was still full from my Palace Diner breakfast and was ready to head home for a nap. Click here for a map of the trail for your exploration of the trail through Gloversville. Of course, by this writing, the current rain and temperatures may make it more “hike-able” than “snowshoe-able” but no matter the footwear, it is worth getting out to enjoy the fresh air on the trail and to see the remnants of the railroad past. Be sure to add some “train” food to your day! Stay. Play. Explore. Live. Discover Downtown Gloversville.

What Is there to do in Downtown Gloversville?! Now that the hustle and bustle of the Christmas holiday has slowed but vacation time is still here, what is there to do in Gloversville?! From urban hikes or walks through downtown, to shopping and special events and classes, there is plenty to do in Downtown Gloversville! Here are a few suggestions for the holiday week leading into the New Year. Be sure to check ahead with venues to ensure activities are still on, if RSVPs are needed, and if there are age limits. · Anytime: Nestled in the Mohawk Harvest Food Co-op at 30 N. Main St, is the Micropolis Cooperative Art Gallery where you can view and purchase local art that includes paintings, drawings, pastels, photographs, glass, pottery, fiber art, digital art, mixed media, jewelry, basketry, woodland assemblages, fine art cards and more. Typically, there is a local artist in residence and is happy to to discuss the art. Of course, while at the Micropolis, you can purchase snacks, soups, coffee, drinks and more from the Mohawk Harvest. For hours, visit websites https://mohawkharvest.org and www.facebook.com/MicropolisGallery. · Anytime: Take an Urban Hike through Downtown Gloversville. Take the 1-mile Historic Walk, or snowshoe on the FJ&G Rail Trail off Station Park on West Fulton Street or hop on the downtown section of the Fulton Montgomery Quilt Trail, there are plenty of fun ways to explore Downtown Gloversville while exercising! For maps and walking routes, visit Blog entries at www.downtowngloversville.org · Now through Jan. 20th: Youth ages 12 to 19 can work on submissions for the 2022/2023 Fulton Montgomery Junior Artist Contest hosted by AGORA Marketplace, 50 N. Main St. Entries are due by end of business day to the AGORA. Once judged, artwork will be on display through March 1st. Rules are posted at AGORA’s Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/Agora50Market and questions can be submitted to email address storemgr@agora50.com. Of course, while at the AGORA, you can shop at its booths and purchase treats and drinks at its Happy Mug café. · Sunday, Dec. 25th and Monday, Dec. 26th: Take an Urban Hike in Downtown Gloversville to find the “Mayfield Munchkin” before watching “The Wizard of Oz” on TBS at 8 p.m. on Sunday or on TNT at 8 p.m. on Monday. Start at The Glove Theatre 42 N. Main St., where Margaret Cynthia Nickloy was present for the premiere of the 1939 movie and work your way up to Pearl Street to find her grave and memorial. To find a map of the route, learn more about the Fulton County native ended up in Oz, and a hint to what role she played in the movie, visit Discover Downtown Gloversville Blog. · Tuesday, Dec. 27th: Club Baby will be held at the Gloversville Public Library, 58 E. Fulton St., at 10 a.m. There is free play time for kids and caregivers, as well as songs, rhymes and more. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/GloversvillePublicLibrary · Wednesday, Dec. 28th: Catch a free viewing of “Anna & the Apocalypse” at The Glove Theatre, 42 N. Main St., at 7 p.m. The musical-zombie-holiday hybrid is rated “R” For more information, visit https://theglovetheatre.com · Wednesday, Dec. 28th: Bingo is played every Wednesday and Saturday unless there is a holiday that night. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. at 19 Washington St. More information can be found at www.facebook.com/BingoCFADK. For more information, call (518) 225-1405. · Thursday, Dec. 29th: Disney Trivia Night at 7 p.m. at The Pines Restaurant and Event Center, 301 N. Kingsboro Ave. Costumes are encouraged! For information, visit www.facebook.com/pinesadk. SATURDAY, Dec. 31st, NEW YEAR’S EVE! · Saturday, Dec. 31st: The Shoeleather Express is having a Toga Party with dinner and square dancing at 7 p.m. at 31 Spring St. For information and reservations, call (518) 225-1405. · Saturday, Dec. 31st: The Glove Theatre, 42 N. Main St., hosts a New Year’s Eve Dance Party at 7 p.m. · Saturday, Dec. 31st: The Pines Restaurant and Events Center, 301 N. Kingsboro Ave., hosts a 4-Course meal that includes watching the New York Times Square ball drop on the big screen starting at 8 p.m. Reservations and pre-paid tickets required. · Saturday, Dec. 31st: Rocky’s Tavern New Year’s Eve with Hunter Havens Band starts at 9 p.m. at 97 S. Main St. · Sunday, Jan. 1st: The Dorn Space, 99 N. Main St., is hosting Revelation Open Mic at 2 p.m. that includes family-friendly music, poetry, prose, preaching, prayer, storytelling, comedy and more. And remember, you can always treat yourself to a spa day or a massage! Gloversville is home to SW The Spa at 23 Fremont St. (sw-dayspa.com) and Beau Monde Progressive Hair Studio & Day Spa at 235 N. Main St. (www.beaumondehairandspa.com). Massages are available at Adirondack Massage Therapist at 40 N. Main St. Call to make an appointment at (518) 752-9311. Appointments can also be made with Sacandaga Therapeutic Massage, at 26 N. Main St., at (518) 848-0928. Bowling is fun for the whole family! Visit Starlite Lanes at 9 Montgomery St. Call (518) 773-2695 for hours and availability. Make an appointment to tour Adirondack Stained Glass Works, located at 29 W. Fulton St., where all pieces are custom made and handmade right on the premises. Call (518) 725-0387. Stay. Play. Explore. Live. Discover Downtown Gloversville.

Hop on the Fulton Montgomery Quilt Barn Trail in Downtown Gloversville Have you ever seen large wooden squares that look like quilts on the sides of building? Did you know they are part of the Fulton Montgomery Quilt Barn Trail, and a portion runs through Downtown Gloversville? As this article points out, https://www.enidnews.com/.../article_7aaf9352-6d43-11ed..., “… towns are looking for ways to encourage visitors to spend more than a day or two in their area to experience local, shop local and eat local, and barn quilt trails are a perfect way to quickly become a must-see destination” and “It can tie back to your heritage by replicating the quilt grandma made, or it can tie to local history.” There are four in the downtown Gloversville region. Starting at the 45 Park Street location, you can walk to Main Street to the Amico Funeral Home at 50 S. Main, head to 39 Hamilton Street and up to the Fulton County Museum on Kingsboro Avenue. That is a healthy jaunt of 2.1 miles or an estimated 4 mile round trip. While getting some good exercise, you can also stop in the shops or take a break at one of the eateries in Downtown Gloversville. The patterns on the wooden quilt squares can be based on traditional quilting patterns or can give a clue about the square owner. For example, the square at 39 Hamilton Street has tools in the middle of its pattern. This is the location of a craftsman and HW Custom Kitchens. The square located at 237 Kingsboro Avenue is placed on the Fulton County Museum, the original site of the 1831 Kingsboro Academy and is in the Historic District of Old Kingsborough. Exhibits at the museum include displays of the glove and leather heritage of Gloversville and the history of the FJ&G Railroad. To find the entire trail that travels through Fulton and Montgomery Counties, visit http://www.fmquiltbarntrail.com/ Stay. Play. Explore. Live. Discover Downtown Gloversville. +6