NEW STAFF WELCOME // Director of Retail Jeffrey Opdyke: 3rd Ward Makes You Smile

Last week we introduced you to 3rd Ward's new Membership Services Associate Isaac Cohen, and now we're delighted to showcase another valuable new addition to our crew, Retail Director Jeffrey Opdyke.

There's a good chance that you're already familiar with Opdyke's work here at 3rd Ward. Since joining the staff this summer he's implemented the amazing Shopbox, which allows you to peruse and purchase a choice selection of American-made products, either via iPad at the Dekalb Market or through our online store. He got to show off the Shopbox to the New York Times' T Magazine and recently oversaw its harrowing but successful move to a central location at the entrance to the Dekalb Market.

Find out more about Opdyke in our Q&A after the jump.

It's hard to miss the awesomeness of the Shopbox, but how would you describe your work in your own words?

I am selecting products for our new retail program, which will include the essentials for what you need to make things at 3rd Ward. I'll also find awesome books and things that will inspire you, and great gifts for your home.

Where are you from?

I am originally from Minneapolis. I have been living in New York since 2000.

Where were you before this?

Previously, I worked as the Retail Manager for Smithsonian's Cooper-Hewitt, National Design Museum on the Upper East Side for six years.

Awesome, that's one of our favorite NYC museums. Is there anything particularly inspiring that you've seen since coming to 3rd Ward?

Every day at 3rd Ward I see things that are inspiring.  The Pig Roast was a lot of fun this summer. I love how many different types of people showed up. I have met with some members who are doing really amazing work. But mostly, it is pretty cool to see everyone so happy all the time. I guess when you are working on stuff you want to be working on, it makes you smile.

Any events coming up here that you're especially looking forward to?

I just signed up for my first class, How to Homebrew Beer! I am really excited for that.  Making beer is something I have always been interested in, and now I have the chance to learn how.

Where should everyone in New York be going to eat?

My favorites for any night of the week are: Al Di La, Franny's, Momofuku, Le Bernardin. I also love Frankies Sputino, and the Breslin does a great brunch.

Power toy?

The Shopbox is like my giant power toy. It spins, there are colored lights, and if you buy something from the iPad or online, it automatically ships it to you. It may be 3rd Ward's most exciting power toy.

Psychological horror movies or romantic comedies?

Totally into Rom Com. I saw Bridesmaids twice, but was really disappointed by What's Your Number.  If it weren't for Chris Evans, I would have left.

Best opening/performance/show you've seen recently?

I saw Yacht the other night at the Brooklyn Night Bazaar at Dekalb Market.  They were refreshingly good. The live show reminded me of The Talking Heads, and the lead singer is totally the next Annie Lennox.

What kind of cocktail would you rather be drinking right now?

I love a good Tom Collins.  But, since its 10am, I'll have a Bloody Mary.

Sounds good to us. Cheers! Cheers!

-- John Ruscher