'Start Up' television episode featuring New Kensington debuts at Voodoo Brewing

An episode of a PBS series focusing on revitalization efforts in New Kensington is “a tremendous postcard for the city,” Mayor Tom Guzzo said.

The episode of “Start Up” featuring Mike Malcanas and his Olde Towne Overhaul debuted at Voodoo Brewing New Kensington Pub on Friday evening.

“Anyone who watches this will say they need to get down to New Kensington and see what’s going on and be a part of it,” Guzzo said.

Scenes for the half-hour episode, the seventh in the series’ 10th season, were filmed in June.

It gives a brief introduction and overview of New Kensington’s history, it’s rise and fall, before highlighting Malcanas and his efforts at buying and repairing old downtown buildings to house new businesses.

Several downtown businesses and business owners are seen. Two, Sweet Alchemy Bake Shop and Las Hachas, an ax throwing venue, which are housed in Olde Towne Overhaul buildings, are spotlighted.

The New Kensington episode is unique, as “Start Up” usually focuses on a single business in each episode.

It is available for viewing on the PBS website, pbs.org.

Host Gary Bredow said that, as of when they filmed, Malcanas had bought 40 buildings in downtown with a commitment to filling them primarily with women and minority-owned businesses.

“There’s a palpable energy and optimism that’s gaining momentum in New Ken,” Bredow says in his conclusion. “Mike may be leading the charge, but this revitalization and resurgence requires the participation and dedication of the entire community, which includes the business owners that are taking the risk of planting roots in a depopulated, nearly forgotten city.

“This town is well on its way to setting an example for what’s possible,” Bredow said. “If you’re willing to go ‘all in’ as a community, there is always the promise for a better tomorrow.”

When Guzzo asked the audience what they thought, the room broke out in applause.

“For all of us who are working so hard, we see the changes,” Guzzo said. “It’s nice to be recognized by someone outside the community, on a national basis.”

Malcanas said the finished episode came together better than he expected.

“They captured everything we’re doing here,” said Malcanas, who attended the premiere bedazzled with a sequined shirt. “They did a really great job telling the story.”

Zach Heidenreich owns Las Hachas with his brother, Brian, and their friend, Brian Mangone. But those watching “Start Up” may not realize that, as Zach likes to stay behind the scenes. He is in some footage but not identified by name or interviewed.

“New Ken never looked so good,” Zach said after watching the episode.

Parker said it felt like more time had gone by since the episode was filmed.

Parker said none of them scripted or rehearsed what they would say. They just answered Bredow’s questions as he posed them.

“When you just answer questions naturally, you don’t have to script it,” she said.

After the debut was over, Parker said she could breathe.

“It did a great job showing what New Kensington is really about — community, connection and working together,” she said. “They told the story very well. It was great to see all the businesses and all the people.”

While others hadn’t seen the episode yet, Michelle Thom, operations manager for Olde Towne Overhaul and Voodoo Brewing New Kensington, said she had already watched it three times going into Friday night.

“I thought it was really well done,” Thom said. “It showcased the city exceptionally well.”