ACE

Upstate Alliance for the Creative Economy

Columbia County

Kinderhook Memorial Library : Finding New Ways to Deliver on It’s Mission

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Meet Bookmoblimp : Kinderhook Memorial Library Finding New Ways to Deliver on It’s Mission
Image: Provided

Please state your name, educational and/or experiential background and what your current title and job description is.

My name is Matt Pavloff, and I am the current Director of the Kinderhook Memorial Library. I started in Kinderhook as a clerk in 2012 while I was working on my online Master’s through UBuffalo. Eventually I was promoted to Teen Services Librarian, and was given the opportunity to step into the Director’s position in 2022.   

Kinderhook Memorial Library | Architect and Art Historian: Mantle Fielding | Image: Provided

The physical space is a beautiful architectural artifact. Can you tell us a bit about the history of the building?

The Kinderhook Free Library was formed in 1928, and the building was constructed in 1933. It was dedicated in memory of George Davie by his daughter Caroline Davie Lloyd, and designed by renowned Architect and Art Historian Mantle Fielding. The footprint of the library remained relatively unchanged until 2016 with the addition of our quiet reading room, the first stage of our capital campaign. After raising $2.4 million from donors and grants, the full building was completed in 2018. We worked with our architect, Butler, Rowland, Mays and contractor Jim Romanchuk to design a building that could accommodate modern needs and expectations with the historic charm that the Village of Kinderhook is known for. The result is a modern building that still fits in perfectly with the historic buildings that surround it.

Fall 2017 Groundbreaking for a 3000 sqft Reading Room Addition | Image: David Lee

Specifically, since the 2018 renovation, there is a commitment to sustainability in the program. Can you explain what this looks like, why you feel this is important and how that influences your programming and operating considerations?

Even before the renovation, our board and staff recognized that a functional library needs to be forward thinking and resilient to change. They began taking steps to make sure that the library could continue to grow and remain relevant by ensuring that the library was accessible and welcoming to anyone and everyone who walked through the doors. Libraries are for everyone, and we recognize our responsibility to our patrons and neighbors.

Sustainability takes a number of forms. While environmental stewardship is a big part of being sustainable, it’s not the only facet. Our commitment to a sustainable library includes providing a collection and services that reach all members of our community equitably, regardless of income, race, gender, political affiliation, or any other factor. Sustainability also includes our fiscal responsibilities. As a public entity, we want to be sure that taxpayers feel confident in supporting us, and that involves making smart choices with funding. This will ensure that we are as prepared for whatever life may throw at us as we can be, and that we will always be here to serve our patrons.

Flower Arranging Class at Kinderhook Memorial Library | Image: Provided
STEAM Based Programming : Young Makers Learning How to Use a 3D Printer | Image: Provided

Can you share your thoughts on the current role of libraries in our communities and why they are so important, especially in our rural communities?

It seems that there are fewer and fewer places in the world for people to simply exist. The library provides that space—a gathering area for people to simply be without any expectation. It’s a place to meet with friends and associates, catch up with neighbors, go after school, or find some peace and quiet. Where else can someone go to just hang out for hours at a time, all year round? I feel a clean and safe public space is one of the best things that libraries can offer.

In addition to that: libraries are a vast resource of free information and entertainment. Libraries have adapted to changing technologies by providing free internet access and WiFi, DVDs, video game rentals, and more in addition to our managed collection of print books and magazines. Many libraries offer a “Library of Things” that allow patrons to check out unique items: we have nature explorer backpacks, cake pans, and a car code scanner to name a few; other libraries loan out telescopes, fishing poles, gardening tools…it’s fascinating to see what people are borrowing!

All of this is in response to community needs. People want a social hub. They want the opportunity to try new things and learn. And we are always here to listen to feedback and ideas.

Kinderhook Memorial Library Program Flyers | Image: Provided
Kinderhook Memorial Library Program Flyers | Image: Provided

Can you tell us a bit about funding sources for a program like yours? Some granularity in this answer would be appreciated and super informative to our audience.

Most of our funding is through local taxes. In fact, every couple of years we go to the voters and request an increase in funding, and without fail we’ve had the increase approved. Not only does this help us increase and diversify our programs, but it’s one of the best measures of public support. We also have a wonderful and active Friends of the Library that supports us throughout the year. Many of our services are directly supported through them, such as our Kanopy streaming service, our New York Times and BookPage subscriptions, and our eBook collection through Libby and Hoopla. Circulation of these eResources has increased dramatically in the past 4 years and without support from the Friends, we wouldn’t be able to provide half of what we do.

Our Board has begun leading a few fundraisers as well, and we are thrilled at how successful one of our annual programs, Art Studio Tour has been—not only as a fundraiser, but as a fun experience for our community!

Kinderhook Memorial Library Program Flyers | Image: Provided
The Art of Telling Stories through Minecraft with Author Nick Eliopulos | Image: Provided

What are your long-term plans as regarding the programmatic mission and the physical space of the library? Any interesting collaborations on deck?

We are very excited to be working on a new tutoring initiative at the Library. This is still being planned, but we are hoping to launch a tutoring service for children at the library—free of charge to families, and with professional, well compensated tutors. We’re also currently exploring collaborations and partnerships to try to take our programs out of our building and into the community to reach those who might not be able to travel to us.

KML Art Studio Tours | Jordan Taylor Hill | Images: Provided

Finally, open question…anything you would like to plug coming up that folks should know about? Don’t be bashful…

Well, we like to think that all of our programs are interesting, but we do have some big, unique ones coming up. First and foremost, this is our second year hosting an Art Studio Tour, and I know that there is a lot of excitement that’s built up from last year’s. This is a self-guided tour that grants access to the studios of local artists, giving participants a behind-the-scenes look at the varying processes of this talented group. We are also hosting a VIP Cocktail Party in Stuyvesant on Saturday, May 5th, where you can mix and mingle with the artists and enjoy some light fare and drinks. Tickets can be purchased at kmlarttour.com or at the door on May 5 from 1-5pm and Sunday from 11am-3pm.

We’re also hosting a Festival of the Unknown on May 25th from 11am-2pm, which will bring vendors and lecturers from across the state to discuss and share all things paranormal! On June 15th in honor of Juneteenth, we’re hosting renowned musician Jordan Taylor Hill at the Kinderhook Farmer’s Market for a hands-on demonstration of West African drumming and dance, and on Saturday, June 29th we’ll be hosting our fourth annual Drag Queen Story Hour at 2:30pm.

All the Good, All the Time : at Made X Hudson : Sustainability is More Than Just Fashionable

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I met Trixie of Trixie’s List fame outside of Club Helsinki in Hudson, NY. It was part of a quick promotional shoot for ‘Wish You Were Hear,’ a covid pandemic live broadcast music series that I was co-producing with Ryder Cooley of the Dust Bowl Faeries. Since then, I have been on Trixie’s mailing list and recently came across this great article by Ben Rendich that I wanted to share with ACE! subscribers…very cool things are afoot in the sustainable fashion scene in Catskill…as you shall see.

EDITORS NOTE: Original article was published in December so you will notice a mention of the holidays.

Made in Hudson in downtown Catskill New York | Image: Provided

For anyone in search of a last-minute holiday gift, try swinging by Made X Hudson – the full service design atelier headquartered on Main Street in Catskill. From their own branded clothing (produced in-house by a team of skilled seamsters) to beauty and pantry items from a roster of Hudson Valley makers, everything in the store bespeaks local quality.

In addition, Made X Hudson offers a variety of ongoing events and unique services, including sewing classes, knitting circles, Pilates, garment alterations, and even custom clothing.

“We do so many different things, it’s kind of bonkers,” says Sergio Guadarrama, co-founder and the gentleman who helms all of Made X’s creative decision-making.

Co-founder at Made X Hudson, Sergio Guadarrama Poses with a Bag of Pre-Spun Wool
Image: Provided

“We’ve done a lot in two years,” agrees Eric De Feo, who manages the business side of things. “We don’t sleep much. It’s 24/7 work.”

Eric is founder and director of the Hudson Community Incubator, an organization devoted to fostering sustainable businesses in the city. It was through this organization that he met Sergio, who’d moved to the area and wanted to open a garment factory.

“It was the peak of the pandemic at that time,” says Eric, “and a lot of factories were struggling. A lot of designers were moving up from the city as well.”

A Made X Employee Works on One of the Store’s in House Creations | Made X Hudson Offers a Variety of Services, Including Garment Alterations | Image: Shannon Greer

The duo hatched their plan in Hudson; they just couldn’t afford any real estate. “We started in a little barn in Leeds with two sewing machines,” remembers Eric. “As soon as we opened our doors, we had orders to create products – from day one.”

Eventually, they allocated enough resources to open their Catskill factory in November 2021, followed by an adjoining shop in March of this year. They opened their Hudson shop this past September.

Sergio has been in the industry for over twenty years, formerly working in women’s evening wear. “I love making things with my hands,” he says. “I love focusing on sustainability and trying to make the fashion industry as ethical as possible.”

Colorful Racks of Made X Hudson Originals, Dried Flower Bouquets and Locally Made Handbags and Hair Clips are Just Some of the Offerings at Made X Hudson | Image: Provided
Made X Hudson is a Full Service Design Atelier Based in Catskill, New York | Image: Provided

His familiarity with the less-than equitable practices of other companies has aided in the creation of a factory that, as he puts it, “encompasses all the good.” The objective at Made X Hudson is to put employees first, and to bring manufacturing back to the community. This entails working in the “old style,” where workers are viewed as an investment, not an expenditure.

“You can overhear the banter,” Eric points out, referring to the conversation that’s drifting into the office where we’re conducting our interview. “Usually that’s not allowed in other factories.”

Made X Hudson employees are all folks based in Hudson, Catskill, and Saugerties; their workroom is on the second floor of the Catskill shop. “We have a fabulous team,” says Sergio. “No one is coming in with much factory experience, because many factories have been shuttering over the last few decades. So everybody’s being trained up – usually from some basic, home-sewing experience.”

“That’s why we opened up our retail shops,” he continues. “To subsidize our training and factory work so that we don’t have to create an environment that’s top-down… [It] enables us to have a more enjoyable work environment.”

Steaming Fabric at Made X Hudson | Image: Shannon Greer

This empowered mindset is echoed in Made X’s inventory as well. Most of the products in their shops originate from Hudson Valley artisans – including Brosgé, a Schenectady-based brand of eco-friendly clothing for plus-sized people; MLE, Saugerties designer Emily Li Mandri’s line of handbags, hair clips and other accessories; and Dunia, a Croatian-American designer who curates Made X’s jewelry selection.

Sergio says that this maker-to-store supply chain is yet another means of fostering sustainability. “When you spend money in stores that are selling products made in other locations, you’re sending money away from your own community. What we’re doing leads to a circular economy.”

A Display at Made X Hudson’s Catskill Store | Upcycled Vintage Piece | Image: Provided

Made X Hudson runs the gamut of price points so that everyone can participate in sustainability.

To that end, Made X Hudson is also involved in spearheading a New York State grant initiative that will create a self-sufficient, regional clothing industry, from seed to finished product. “We were selected alongside RPI and FIT to build a fashion innovation center,” says Eric, “which is going to focus on farm-to-fiber products, lab-grown textiles, and also work to promote a New York sustainable supply chain.”

In the meantime, Made X Hudson runs a popular quarterly clothing swap, where for $15 you can bring as many items and take as many items as you want. “You can get a full wardrobe for fifteen bucks,” quips Sergio. And while at the store, swappers can pick up one or two of Made X’s upcycled, vintage pieces, which are sold at entry-level prices alongside their in-house products.

Co-founder Eric De Feo in Made X Hudson Chore Jacket | Image: Eric De Feo

“We run the gamut of price points so that everyone can participate in sustainability.”

Their Catskill location recently featured the team’s first gallery show, showcasing works by Woodstock based photographer Chase Pierson, and every weekend, Atelier Kuki serves farm-to-table, gourmet Japanese bento and desserts from 12-6pm.

“It’s all a lot of fun,” says Sergio. “And it feels like we’re helping people, too.”

You can check out all of Made X Hudson’s services and upcoming events at their website : madexhudson.com

Ben Rendich is a filmmaker and writer. He’s in pre-production on his first feature, and has a blog where he writes movie reviews and essays called Reflections on a Silver Screen. He lives in Catskill.

This article was reprinted with the permission of Trixie’s List where it was originally posted.

The Authentic 518 Guide to Speakeasy Bars in the Capital Region

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Cocktail at The Maker
The Lounge at The Maker

Ever find yourself in the mood for some swanky, jazzy vibes to transport you back a hundred years or so? Luckily for us, the Capital Region is home to some actual bootlegging legends (check out @bootleggerbungalow on Instagram, you won’t be disappointed). We’re also home to entrepreneurs who know just how to leverage our rich history into some seriously cool speakeasy-style bars and restaurants. We’ve cherry picked 4 bars that we think exude the turn of the century aura. They’ve got sexy, tactile interior decor, and they reside within 200-year-old buildings. Romance and legend and cocktails. It’s a can’t-miss night on the town. 

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

9 Maple, Saratoga Springs

The bar at 9 Maple
The glittering bar at 9 Maple in Saratoga Springs

This speakeasy sure doesn’t make itself hard to find — the address and the name of the bar are one and the same. This self-proclaimed ‘Jazz Lounge’ is in a narrow brick building dating back to the 1880’s. This spot can get pretty crowded on the weekends when Saratogians pack into the space to listen to raucous live jazz bands.

While they’re known especially for their espresso martini, they also offer an impressive menu of 250 martinis. In addition, they allegedly have the largest selection of single malt scotch from Manhattan to Montreal. (We can’t wait to begin fact-checking this). The mahogany bar and iron-cast light fixtures are in keeping with the 1880s aura, while bartenders are dressed in formal attire as they shake two martinis at a time. Stop in early for a quiet drink or head in late-night for a bustling good time. 

9 Maple, 9 Maple Avenue, Saratoga Springs, 518-583-CLUB, IG @9mapleave

The Berlin, Troy

The Berlin

This sultry spot in Troy sits on the second floor above the Troy Beer Garden, with an inconspicuous side-door entrance on the left side of the building. Complete with Chesterfield sofas, floor-to-ceiling red curtains, and gilded frames from wall-to-wall, The Berlin doesn’t leave even the smallest details unattended to. Intricate wallpaper, exposed brick, and tall ferns provide solarium vibes during daylight hours, and transition perfectly to mysterious night club after dark. Ten original ‘Haus Cocktails’ and nine wines offer a selection for anyone’s palate. This is the perfect spot for after dinner drinks and optimal mood lighting. 

The Berlin Lounge, 2 King Street, Troy, 518-730-0330, IG @theberlinlounge

The Maker, Hudson

The Maker in Hudson

As the prolific city of Hudson continues to put itself on the international ‘map’, this spot certainly hasn’t wanted for media coverage — it’s an exemplary example of historic renovation. Because of the building alone, we’d be remiss not to include The Lounge at The Maker. Built inside of a restored carriage barn, a marble and mahogany horseshoe bar acts as the grand focal point. Tassel-lamps descend from the ceiling. Intricately tiled floors, dark panel walls and heavy velvet curtains erase the last hundred years. It’s a complete the time-travel experience. With their unique and inventive cocktail list and small bites, The Maker lounge is a great stop for a date night or late-night get together. 

The Maker, 302 Warren Street, Hudson, IG @themakerhotel

Elixir 16, Troy

Elixir in Troy
The historic building that’s home to Elixir 16

The history of the building at 45 2nd St is the most interesting and unique of any on this list. Originally built as a single-family home in 1822, it was renovated and the bottom floor used as a doctors office for nearly 100 years until now-owner Megan Reavey bought it in 2016. She pays homage to this in a couple of ways. The first is slightly macabre: in the front room sits an old, 1940’s medical bench, complete with stirrups and parchment paper rolled over the surface. She tells us that when she bought the building, this medical bench was still in use! The second homage is in the name. “The definition of Elixir is something the doctor prescribes, or a magical potion,” says Reavey.

Elixir 16 in Troy

The floors, fireplaces and chandeliers are original to the building. The ceiling tile is also of the 1800’s but salvaged from other buildings. Up until just a couple of years ago, there was no signage on the bar whatsoever. Instead, there was just a sandwich board out front that said ‘Curious? Come see for yourself’. They offer a wide selection of craft brews, as well as dumplings and board games. This one is an absolute must for the history buff or the craft beer enthusiast. 

Elixir 16, 45 2nd St, Troy, IG @elixir1

Straight Upstate logo
This article is part of our “The Authentic 518” Series done in collaboration with Cabrina McGinn and Straight Upstate.

Born and raised in the Capital Region, Cabrina McGinn started her blog in 2019 to highlight the exceptional bars and restaurants that the 518 has to offer. Prior to that, she had spent many years in the restaurant industry, bartending all over New York State. Cabrina lives in Saratoga Springs and enjoys exploring the Hudson Valley and Adirondacks on the weekends. Visit the blog on instagram @straightupstate or online at https://straightupstate.com 

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

Dishing Out the Deets with Susie Davidson Powell

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Pretty sure I met Susie Davidson Powell while enjoying a glass of wine at The Confectionary in Troy a few years ago. Since then, I have had opportunity to hit the road with her and get a front row seat on what its like to enjoy the food life from the drivers seat…and also the passenger seat – in her Porche 911 Targa 4S. Yup, she rolls in style!

Susie Davidson Powell


Many would think that you have a dream job! What is it exactly that you do and for how long have you been doing it?

I’ve been writing about food and drink in the Hudson Valley for close to a decade, first when I moved to Columbia County after living in the city, and then in the Capital Region. I’ve been the Times Union dining critic since 2014, so I write weekly restaurant reviews, critic’s notebook features, The Food Life (a trend-focused digital subscriber newsletter) and a monthly cocktail column. I also co-founded thefoodlife.co for Hearst and wrote and filmed Kitchen Raid, a 6-week armchair travel, cooking and recipe subscription focused on pro tips and kitchen ingredients to make fast plates and amazing cocktails. But it’s not as glamorous as people think…

Susie Davidson Powell with cheese

How did you end up getting into this business? Was this part of your original career path or did you develop this over time?

Not at all! I grew up outside London, England, and was always traveling through Europe, later working in Poland and on a Greek Island. Throughout uni and grad school, I worked as a bartender and cocktail waitress, server and occasional kitchen help. This was a great eye opener in terms of the industry and chef and customer behavior.

I came to Albany, New York to attend grad school. I worked as a research program director and stayed in publishing/curricula development for several years. I’m so grateful for that experience. I’d be out on the road for weeks, eating my way from L.A. to El Paso or D.C. to Roswell, NM. A real culinary education. After moving with my family to Columbia County, NY, I wrote a weekly newspaper column about country life and started covering the growing farm-to-table scene around 2003 just as Swoon opened on Warren Street, Hudson, and not long after the 9/11 exodus Upstate. The rest is history.

Susie Davidson Powell

What does your job look like on a daily basis? I mean, from a practical perspective beyond all the glamour parts! Ok, maybe some glamour stuff also…

I’m constantly tracking new openings, following chef moves between restaurants, and driving – anywhere from Hudson or Woodstock to the Adirondacks – in search of food. I visit new restaurants once or twice each week and circle back for breakfast, lunch or take out a few times a week. I spend a lot of time on background research too, reviewing current and past menus, and setting up interviews. All this before I get to write. One review with travel, eating, and writing time can take 10 to 15 hours. But I do get invited to talk about food-and-drink on radio and TV and I’m often sent wines and spirits to try. That’s the only glamour part!

Susie Davidson Powell b&W

How has your job changed in the last couple of years with the complications of the pandemic? Any specific examples to share?

The pandemic was brutal on the industry. Heart breaking. Although there is a fine line between critics and restaurants, there is a relationship and respect.

I pivoted my coverage, writing about take out, drinks to-go, Black-owned eateries following the BLM protests, staff funds, and a series of behind-the-scenes Shutdown Dairies with restaurateurs and chefs. It felt important to show the struggle faced by industry people. Also, I rapidly compiled the first 50 restaurants that switched to take out in the initial lock down, which became the basis of a Times Union take out database. I’m proud of that.

I also ditched my anonymity and hosted online Food Life Lives, chatting with restaurateurs, sommeliers, farmers, even a DJ. We wanted to touch on what we were missing, what we could plate or pour at home, and how to recreate that feeling of being looked after that you have when you dine out. Before the pandemic, I used to host a lot of dinner parties and private wine or whiskey tasting events, so during the lock down I was asked to do a few via Zoom for the Times Union.

Susie Davidson Powell with beer

What are your goals for 2022? Anything additional that you would like to mention?

All the Covid delays have made me a little gun shy of setting timed goals but I have a drinks, dining and travel hospitality guide in the works called thedishing.com. You can sign up online for details about its launch!

EDITORS NOTE: Corey here, with a shameless plug. Susie with be bringing a non-alcoholic cocktail series to Arts Bar at the Arts Center of the Capital Region for the first quarter of 2022. The events, are held on Troy Night Out in downtown Troy on the 4th Friday of each month. The first will be on 01.28 from 6:00 to 8:00 at 265 River Street Troy. Come join us for art and a variety of non- and-alcohol based cocktails!

IG: @artsbartroy

ACE Culinary Road Trip: 5 Amazing Latin-Owned Restaurants!

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Oscar
Oscar at Oaxaquena Triqui, after eating grasshoppers

Welcome to our celebration of Latin-owned restaurants in the Capital Region! Schenectady-based, Honduran-born artist Oscar Bogran and I explored a range of restaurants that are deeply inspired by Latin American heritage and culture. We tried things we’d NEVER dreamed of eating, and met amazing women who are running successful businesses and employing dozens of people. Not many of them would call themselves “chefs.” (They’d likely say they’re the “cook”.) But rest assured, they’re hand making some of the most fantastic artisan food in the Capital Region, at price tags everyone can afford.

Click to read much more about each location:

Casa Latina, Salvadorean and Mexican Cuisine in Hudson

Lorraine and Oscar

Flores Family Restaurant, Salvadorean food in Schenectady

maria lloyd

Empanada Llama, Peruvian cuisine in Albany

Roast Chicken

Angel’s Latin Restaurant, Dominican Cuisine in Catskill

chicken mole

Oaxaquena Triqui, Oaxacan Cuisine in Albany

Griselda and her daughters, Oaxaquena Triqui

“Artisan food” is a term used to describe food produced by non-industrialised methods. It’s often handed down through generations but now in danger of being lost.

And here’s what you get when you eat each of these restaurants:

  • Authenticity — the owners and chefs are dedicated to sharing their rich culture through food. They talked to us about each and every dish, thrilled to share their stories.
  • Affordability — we didn’t spend over $15 per person at any of these restaurants, and often, we spent under $10.
  • Family Operated — every restaurant included family in their operation.
  • Minority and Women Ownership — all are owned by people who were born in Latin American countries, and four out of five are headed by women.
pupusas
Pupusas at Flores Family Restaurant

Our Tips for Exploring Latin American Restaurants:

  • Ask Lots of Questions — Everyone really enjoyed explaining their offerings. Additionally, we often found specialties that aren’t even included on the menu
  • Speak Spanish, If You Know Any — Oscar was able to draw out conversations better than I was, for sure! He was able to engage people who weren’t that comfortable with their English, and he helped me, too, because I’m not comfortable in Spanish.
  • Don’t Judge a Book By Its Cover — Many of these settings are very humble. The storefronts are not fancy, the interiors are utilitarian, and they might not be in the “best” section of these downtowns. However, the adventure will be super fun, and the food is fantastic. We guarantee it.

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