All Over Albany

Where to buy firewood?

Wade asks:

I'm looking for a reliable source of high quality seasoned firewood. Does anybody have a firewood guy they would recommend? Delivery preferred but not necessary. Price per face cord? Thanks for you input, Folks!

Have to admit: We know next to nothing about buying firewood. So we're curious if people have not just a place in mind about where to buy firewood, but also maybe some thoughts or tips about what to look for.

So, got a suggestion for Wade? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're recommending a place can be helpful.

A large, interesting party space in Albany?

Maureen emails:

Hi, I'm trying to find a warm space with character preferably in Albany to host a dear friend's 50th. Have something like the Hollow? or Hangar? Or the Linda? in mind, but want to expand into rentable fire houses? old churches? It's for 85-90 people.

We've had similar questions in the past, but it sounds like Maureen is looking for a relatively large space and maybe something a little different.

One thing to keep in mind when hosting an event like this in what might be unusual space: You'll often have to coordinate catering or address details like seating. (That's one of the benefits of going with a place that hosts a bunch of events like this -- the venue often can handle that stuff.)

So, got a suggestion for Maureen? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're suggesting a place can be helpful.

photo: Timothy Raab

A good chimney inspector?

A new home owner emails:

I am looking for a chimney inspector to perform a level 2 chimney inspection (with video inspection). It's been challenging this time of year to find someone with availability, and some companies have not returned my calls.

I would like to find a chimney business that is properly insured, CSIA certified, knowledgeable about gas insert fireplaces, and, of course, experienced.

Hoping to hear from people who have had good personal experiences ... as there are a lot of very mixed reviews out there about chimney/masonry companies.

It's understandable this is a busy time of year for this sort of business and may involve a wait. But if you're going to be using a fireplace, it's also worth having the chimney checked out.

So, got a suggestion for this new home owner? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're recommending a service can be helpful.

Earlier: Be it known, this chimney has been swept (2013)

Where to get some design help for fixing up the landscaping around a house?

Jon emails:

I moved into a home with overgrown and misplaced landscaping. I'd like to resuscitate some plants/shrubs, relocate a few, remove a bunch and supplement to fill in any missing spots. Problem is that I need someone with an "eye" for landscape design to help (and to understand my goals).

I found the landscaping companies expensive and more interested in selling me a new "package" rather than work with and supplement what is here. My thought is that I need someone to design the gardens (location, types and location of plantings) and I could do the grunt work.

Jon notes that, obviously, we're at the end of the season for this sort of thing. But now is actually not a bad time to start planning a little bit for next spring.

Fixing up the landscaping can make a big difference in how a house looks. Sometimes just cutting back (or taking out) old, overgrown bushes will make things look a lot more inviting. Also: You'll probably win a few points with your neighbors. And people often how like to chat about that kind of thing when you're out working, so it's a nice opportunity to meet people in the neighborhood.

We had a somewhat similar question years ago for a large backyard project, but things change and it sounds like Jon doesn't need anything on that scale. It might be enough to just snap a few pics and show the people at a local garden store and they might have some good ideas.

So... got a suggestion for Jon and his yard? Please share! And sentence or two about your suggestion can be helpful.

Where to get a pair of boots altered?

Nicole emails:

I'm wondering if the AOA community can help me find a reputable cobbler in the area who does quality work beyond replacing soles, polishing, etc. I have a new pair of good quality, tall leather boots that need to be taken in a bit near the top to fit correctly. I don't want to bring them just anywhere and hope for the best, nor do I want to check a dozen shops only to find they can't do the work. I'm willing to travel a bit of a distance, if necessary.

Suggestions and experiences would be most helpful! Otherwise, I'm going to end up bringing these down to a shop in Long Island and I really don't want to wait so long. Thanks so much!!!

A bunch of years ago we got a question about fixing up some old boots and some of the suggestions to that question might be helpful. But things change -- and this question is a bit different.

Got a suggestion for Nicole? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're recommending a shop can be helpful.

Groups and other good resources for new parents?

Katie emails:

I'm a new first time mom and it's been suggested that I look into "mom groups" in the area while I'm out on maternity leave. Do your readers have suggestions on either groups of some sort to look into or other resources they found valuable with a new baby? I don't know if I'm the "group type" but it seems like getting out of the house will help me maintain some semblance of sanity, I'm just not quite sure where to start.

Meeting new people can be hard, especially if you're new to a place or situation. But being able to connect with people in a setting where you already know they're sharing the same experience can be a big help. If anything, you have something to talk about right from the start.

So, got a suggestion for Katie? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're recommending a group/activity/place can be helpful.

Local coding or 3-D printing classes for kids?

Tom emails:

My 11 year-old son has expressed interest in computer coding (he's been doing some at code.org) and also 3-D printing. He's a very strong student, especially in math where he's been accelerated one year since 3rd grade, so I think he'd excel at both. I'm looking for classes or organizations that teach coding or 3-D printing to kids. There's an 8 week class at the Albany library that would be great for him but it's entitled "Girls Who Code", and there doesn't seem to be one for boys. Can anyone point me toward classes/groups for him?

Sure, a class like this can help a kid follow their interests, or even set them on a path toward a career. But there's also something valuable in just learning a little bit about how all this stuff works. Our world is saturated with computing devices. Knowing something about the concepts on which they run is a good thing for anyone.

So, got a suggestion for Tom and his son and other kids? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're recommending a place can be helpful.

Where to buy Mexican-style chorizo?

A chorizo taco at La Mexicana. / photo: Daniel B.

Sean emails:

Do any of your readers know where I can find any of that good chorizo that crumbles when you remove the casing? Price Chopper used to carry some, but I haven't seen it in quite a while. I've been left having to use "hot-dog chorizo," which is nothing like the good oily, crumbly stuff. Please help!

As Sean mentions, there are two general types of chorizo: the Spanish or Portuguese style that slices up like a sausage, and the Mexican style that crumbles. The Mexican style is excellent in a taco with potatoes or mixed up with eggs (you can get it like that at Viva Cinco de Mayo in Albany).

Our first thought when we saw Sean's question was the Mexican Market on Central Ave, so we called over there and it sounds like they don't have it available for retail. (We wouldn't be surprised if you get it as a taco there, though.)

So then we called over to La Mexicana on State Street in Schenectady. And success -- the person on the phone said they do sell chorizo in the grocery there. (Also: You pretty much have to stop for a few tacos if you go to La Mexicana.)

Got other suggestions for Sean in his search for chorizo? Please share!

Gym options for downtown Albany / around the Empire State Plaza?

Meredith reaches out to us via the electronic mail (links added):

I know that you've had questions about local gyms before, and I know that downtown Albany remains a gym desert, apart from a couple nice but decidedly diminutive downtown office-building options that offer community memberships (e.g. Omni Fitness). I keep hoping that before the weather again turns too crappy/cold for running outdoors to be palatable, some fitness entrepreneur will notice that there are actually a large and growing number of humans living in Center Square/downtown/surrounding areas, and that we, too, might like to have even a low-frills chain gym within walking distance, such as sprout like mushrooms in the suburbs. (Seriously, what is it about Albany? We used to have a couple Ys -- particularly awful ones, compared with the fitness temples in the 'burbs -- but even those have been gone for years now. Even wee little towns elsewhere have gyms; why not here?!)

But whining aside, here's my question for you: I heard rumors last year that a gym was coming back to the Empire State Plaza. The Times Union reported back in December that the rumors were true. ... [D]o you know anything?

We checked with the state Office of General Services for an update on gym developments at ESP, and a spokesman said there wasn't anything new to add to that report from late last year. It is worth noting that the ESP hosts outdoor post-work fitness classes ("Fitness on the Plaza"), though the current season just ended. And there are also lunchtime fitness classes run by Empower State Plaza Fitness weekdays in a rehearsal room at the Egg.

It's been about four years since the gym at the Steuben Club in downtown Albany closed. But the neighborhood has a growing residential population. And a lot of space there is currently in the process of being opened up and repurposed (including, potentially, the old Steuben building).

So... Maybe one of these developers can get together with one of the local chains or orgs and work something out. It sounds like there might be growing demand.

Got a suggestion for Meredith about gym options? Please share.

How to handle a situation involving a neighbor and uncertain future for a shared property?

Anonymous emails:

Do you have any suggestions on how to deal with the situation below:

We live in Center Square and we share a demising wall with a neighbor that has aged significantly. While we value her as a neighbor, we are concerned about what happens to her home when she passes away since we share a wall. Furthermore, we are concerned that she has no inheritors that will take responsibility for her house. So many houses are left in limbo in Albany and it takes many years for them to actually come on the market. What are some things we can do as proactive neighbors to avoid a bad situation?

Very often the best path is to start a polite discussion with the neighbor about an issue like this. (Or, really, about anything -- it's good to know your neighbors.) Sometimes that's not possible, though. And it's true that sometimes properties can fall into an in-between state of ownership that makes it difficult to address problems. Pretty much every neighborhood in Albany (and we suspect most other cities around here) have at least one or two houses that are stuck in this sort of state for all sorts of reasons.

So, this is an important and sensitive situation. Maybe you have a constructive suggestion to offer Anonymous? If so, please share.

Summertime outdoor theater venues or series?

Ahead of a Park Playhouse production this summer.

Sean asks via email:

My family LOVES going to see shows at the Park Playhouse each summer. It has become a staple of our summertime routine these last couple of years. We recently got to wondering if there are any other seasonal theater venues like it in the region (Saratoga, Hudson, Western Mass, etc). We'd more than gladly travel out as far as places like Tanglewood if there were similarly attractive musical theater performances. Thanks!

It's starting to get a little late in the season for these sorts of events, but 1) we bet there are still a handful happening and 2) they're often annual, so they could be something to look forward to for next summer.

Got a suggestion for Sean and his family? Please share!

Local places to buy head scarves?

Christine emails:

I'm looking for suggestions for a place to buy head scarves for a friend going through chemo. I know they have tons online but she'd love to be able to try them in first. Thanks so much!

Sometimes half the fun of buying some new clothes -- especially when you're with friends -- is the chance to try a bunch of different things on.

Got a suggestion for Christine and her friend? Please share!

Where to donate bedding and towels?

Amy emails:

I have a bunch of sheet sets, towels, blankets, etc. (clean, of course) that I'd like to donate. Do you know if there are any groups that will take them? Perhaps a refugee resettlement group or a group that helps the homeless with housing?

As we've noted before, charities often have rules about what sorts of items they accept for all sorts of reasons -- sometimes because of logistics, other times because of concerns about condition. But things like sheets and towels seem like something easy to clean and inspect.

So, got a suggestion for Amy? Please share!

Earlier: Where to donate a virtually new mattress?

Take-along food ideas for Tanglewood?

Speaking of Tanglewood... Sean emails:

We're taking some friends from out of town to a show at Tanglewood this weekend on our way out to Boston. Our plan was to grab some takeout to bring with us to the show. I was wondering if any of your readers could recommend some good options, either local to us or to Tanglewood itself (Subway our last resort). Our usual smorgasbord of meats, cheeses, etc won't work this time since our final destination is a hotel (no fridge). We're coming from Albany and will have kids with us, but they shouldn't be overly limiting.

There are no doubt a handful of places either here in/around Albany or across the border closer to Tanglewood. (Making picnic baskets for Tanglewood is probably a whole mini-industry in the Berkshires.)

So, got a suggestion or two for Sean? Please share!

A roofer for row houses?

Nancy emails:

I reviewed the past comments about roofers, but we have a specific need - for a row house. Does anyone have suggestions for roofers for this type of roof?

We have heard in the past that roofing, painting, and similar sorts of jobs on row houses can be a little different for contractors because they sometimes require different staging, just because there's not the same sort of access. So we're curious if there are roofing contractors with a lot of experience doing this sort of job.

Got a suggestion for Nancy? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're recommending a contractor can by helpful.

Dog-friendly weekend trip and hiking spots?

Otto at Vroman's Nose.

J emails:

Any recommendations on local and weekend trip, dog-friendly places to visit? Hiking suggestions are also welcome!

One of the great things about this area is that you can go an hour or two (or not even that far) in just about any direction and there are good day trip and/or hiking spots. (And if you're going to bring your pup to a park or preserve or something similar, it's a good idea to check ahead about the rules for dogs.)

So... got a suggestion for J about particularly dog-friendly destinations? Please share! And sentence or two about you're suggestion a place can be helpful.

Suggestions for affordable wedding venues?

G emails:

Hello! A friend of mine is hoping to get married next year and is trying to be budget conscious but still have a great wedding. Any suggestions for venues and vendors that are affordable but quality? Thank you!

We suspect this sort of course follows at least one of two angles:
1) picking a venue or vendors outside the typical wedding industrial complex and/or
2) focusing on just a few aspects of the experience that are really important to you and letting the other stuff go. We're guessing people will have some ideas about how to be creative in this regard.

So, got a suggestion for G and friend? Please share! And sentence or two about why you're suggesting something can be helpful?

Earlier: Lauren wrote about planning her wedding a few years back, and there are some bits in there that should be helpful.

A good cleaning service for occasional visits?

Sean emails:

Before kids, our idea of splurging was going out to a fancy dinner or a weekend away. After kids, it has now turned into dreaming about what a clean house might feel like. That being said, we were wondering if any of your readers might be able to recommend a cleaning service that we could treat ourselves with from time to time.

This question comes up every few years, and things change, businesses open and close. So we figured it was maybe time for it again. (We're curious if Sean and his partner might be able to set up a quarterly or twice-yearly cleaning.)

So, got a suggestion for a cleaning service? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're recommending a service, or about some aspect like cost, can be helpful.

Advice for tracking down apartment/home rentals for families?

E asks:

A friend of mine is moving with her 15 month old son from Washington DC to Albany, to be closer to her parents (she grew up in Delmar!). She's looking to rent (for the next year or so) a nice, comfortable apartment/house (2-3 bedroom) near a daycare and is currently considering a downtown/Center Square Albany location (near Empire Plaza) or near Delmar - she'll be working from home.

Would you have any tips on how to best locate [an apartment or home to rent] (websites, locations, etc.)? She'll be coming to the Albany area in 2 weeks and then planning to move over the summer so she's got a bit of time (and flexibility) and opportunity to look at different places.

Any advice on renting in Albany area welcome.

E's question points toward a situation that, anecdotally at least, sometimes seems to be a challenge for people around here: finding a good apartment or rental situation for a family with kids. Over the past year we've encountered multiple families with young children who had a tough time finding a rental that met their needs. And we get the sense it's particularly difficult in the city of Albany itself.* Whether it's a case of an actual lack of stock -- or the lack of a good way of tracking down homes to rent -- is a good question. (Also: A few anecdotes doesn't necessarily mean there's a broad problem.)

So, got a suggestion for E's friend? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're recommending a place or approach can be helpful.
____

* We'll just add a generalized comment in support of the ubiquitous Albany two-families in which the flats are stacked one on top of the other. Most of them have three (small) bedrooms and if you're on the first floor, it's probably not too many stairs for regularly moving a stroller or other kid stuff.

Must-do Albany/Troy activities for new arrivals to the Capital Region?

Lindsay emails:

Some long-time friends of mine will be moving to the Capital Region in June, and I was looking for some expert/crowd-sourced advice on must-do Albany/Troy/etc activities for Capitol Region neophytes, anywhere from the mundane-- signing up for Price Chopper rewards cards-- to fun things, like attending a concert at SPAC.

We know there are more than a few people in the AOA crowd have moved to this area from somewhere else. And we're guessing you might have some good ideas. On the flip side, if you've lived here all your life, we bet you might have a few things in mind that someone would now only only from maybe living here most of their life.

So, got a suggestion for Linday's friends? Please share! And a sentence or two explaining your suggestion can be helpful.

Earlier on AOA: You're New Here

An insurance broker for car insurance?

J asks:

Can you recommend a good local insurance broker for auto insurance?

To go along with J's question, we're curious about people's thoughts or experiences regarding using an insurance broker generally. Do you think it's saved you time or money? Is it better that just shopping around yourself to some of the well-known companies?

Got a suggestion or thought for J? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're suggesting a broker can be helpful.

Where to donate a virtually new mattress?

Elisabeth emails:

[My husband] and I recently ordered a new mattress online...thing is, we're not feeling it and decided to return it.

The company told us "there is no one in your area to donate it to..." so they're going to schedule a 1-800 Got junk pick up. Ugh. I find it hard to believe that no organization will take a practically brand new queen size mattress!

Can you ask the AOA hive mind if they know of an organization that will take it? It has to be a not-for-profit and not a friend of a friend thing as we need to provide proof of the donation.

Charities sometimes have rules about what sorts of items they will take, often because of logistics and sometimes because of concerns about condition. In this case, with one of these foam mattresses that would seem to be relatively easy to inspect, we're guessing some org might be interested.

So, got a suggestion for Elisabeth? Please share!

Where to get measured for a suit?

Sean emails:

A friend is having some tuxedo's made for his wedding by a shop in China. He's asked that all of the groomsmen get measured so he can pass those measurements along to the tailor. Do any of your readers know of a good place to go to get measured?

We had a somewhat similar question many years ago. Then, as now, we wonder how a local shop will react to taking measurements so a tux or suit can be made somewhere else. But maybe they'll be OK just charging for the time.

Got a suggestion for Sean? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're recommending a place can be helpful.

Lawn treatment company suggestions?

Michele asks via the Twitter:

Hi, I could use a recco for a trusted local contractor for lawn fertilization & treatment; *not* mowing or clean-up. I had planned to contact Lawn Dawg, but they've sold to TruGreen, and I've heard anecdotally the service has declined. Any suggestions? Thanks!

We'll add an angle our own to Michele's question: We're curious if there are any companies around here that specialize in "green" treatment for lawns -- for example, maybe they'll come out and run the aerator over the lawn and the spread compost or something similar.*

Got a suggestion for Michele? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're recommending a service can be helpful.

* Because we're really not looking forward to doing that ourselves. (Also: Mow high. And let go of the monoculture.)

Recommendations for good puppy classes?

It's hard to believe Otto was ever this tiny. He's 10 years old now!

Heather emails:

I am hoping to get some help from the AOA community on suggestions for puppy classes. I've just adopted a four-month-old puppy and know training is needed for both of us. The person who was highly recommended the last time this was asked in 2012 has since retired (Jody Diehl) and am wondering if there are other trainers who fill that void. I'm looking for someone who does positive reinforcement training instead of other methods (choke/slip collar).

Props to Heather for seeking out this sort of training. It can make a big difference -- for both dogs and people. A well-socialized (and exercised!) puppy that gets good training often ends up being a calm adult dog with good manners.

Got a suggestion for Heather and her pup? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're recommending a trainer or place can be helpful.

A good gastroenterologist?

Anonymous emails:

I have a bad case of persistent acid reflux. I've tried the over-the-counter medicines and they help, but I'd like to see a gastroenterologist to put together a better long term plan. I also want to get checked out in case there's something even more serious going on. Can anyone recommend a good gastroenterologist? Thank you!

As with any health-related Ask AOA question that we get, we're always keen on hearing about doctors who are good listeners because that's a recurring theme in both questions and suggestions.

So, know of a good local gastroenterologist to suggest to Anonymous? Please share. And a sentence or two about why you're recommending that doctor can be a big help.

photo:Flickr user Adrian Clark (CC BY-ND 2.0)

Options for re-glazing a bath tub?

Jillian emails:

I'm looking for local recommendations to have my bath tub re glazed. I've tried googling options, but only find bath fitters. Would love to opportunity to have folks submit recommendations on All Over Albany!

We had a similar question a few years back that focused on antique tubs, but it sounds like Jillian's situation is a little more straightforward. Re-glazing can help a tub look new(er) again, or switch out some 60s era tone for something more modern. Though we're curious how the cost compares to just getting a new tub.

So, got a suggestion for Jillian? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're recommending an option or contractor can be a big help.

Repair options for an old slate roof?

Allison emails:

My early 19th century slate roof needs repairing. I know that you posted this question in the past but it was 7 years ago and some of the suggested contractors have retired or are out of business. This has proven to be a difficult search considering the amount of slate roofs around the city. Thanks!

Bonus points to Allison for checking if someone has already asked this question. And we're happy to post it again given the time that's passed and, it sounds like, how things have changed.

Good a contractor or suggestion for Allison? Please share! And sentence or two about why you're suggesting a contractor can be a big help.

photo: Flickr user Chilanga Cement (CC BY 2.0)

Local basketball leagues for women?

After seeing that a local basketball rec league doesn't include a division for women's teams, Katie commented on Twitter:

[W]ell this is disappointing... give us a women's league!! Or at least don't exclude women. We are athletes too!"

With that in mind...

Do you know of any local basketball rec leagues that include women -- either on mixed teams or in a division of women's teams?

Joining up with a regular sports league / regular pick-up game can be 1) fun and 2) a good way to meet new people.

So if you have any suggestions, we'd love to hear them. And, as always, a sentence or two about why you're recommending a team / league / place can be helpful.

Where to sell old video games, tablets, tech gear?

Brooks emails:

Do readers have any recommendations for any reputable pawn shops in the area or places to sell video games, tablets, other tech gear?

We suspect some of the game stores are probably the best bet for old games and game-related equipment. Old tech gear might be another story. We're curious to hear about people's experiences selling this sort of stuff.

Got a suggestion for Brooks? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're recommending a shop / option can be helpful.

A gymnasium space to rent?

Martin emails:

Our roller hockey league was set to begin next Tuesday night and the facility we've played at for a decade just informed us they refinished the floors. We need a gymnasium in the Capital District ASAP for rent for a once a week roller hockey league. We traditionally played for 10 weeks on Tuesdays, 8:30-10:30. The league is fully insured, we play 4 on 4 with full safety gear, absolutely a responsible group of 10 adults. I'm looking for any contacts I can speak to that would be in position to offer us some space to play and salvage our season. Thanks!

There seem to be a not-small number of these sorts of gym spaces tucked away in buildings around the area. It's just a matter of knowing about them -- and working out access. We're also curious if there's a facility that might not be a gymnasium exactly, but could work for this purpose.

So, got a suggestion for Martin and his league? Please share!

A good rehearsal dinner spot in Saratoga?

Nicole asks:

I'd like recommendations for a venue in Saratoga Springs that could host a rehearsal dinner. The dinner would be for twenty people and over the summer, though before track season. I would need a private space, separate from other patrons, and would like something on the more casual end. We're willing to consider somewhat unconventional venues. However, we need to be cost conscious.

If you know of a place that would seem to be a good fit for my needs, and could provide the name of the person you specifically worked with, that would be very helpful, as I haven't had much luck getting responses to some of my emails/phone calls to restaurants thus far.

It feels like there are a bunch new places opened in Saratoga in the last year, so we're curious to hear people's suggestions. (Also:: A little bit of customer service goes a long way.)

Got a suggestion for Nicole? Please share! And a sentence or two about you're recommending a place can be helpful.

A local option for custom embroidery?

Nicole emails:

I'd like to see if your readers have recommendations for a business or person that can provide custom embroidery (such as adding names) on items that I provide. To clarify. I would not purchase the item to be embroidered by them, but give them the items to be embroidered. I would be doing this on a small scale -- about ten items. I'd prefer to use a local business or person.

We're guessing there have to be at least a few places that do this sort of work. And picking a place that's local allows you to bring in the items and talk with someone face to face about what you'd like.

So, got a suggestion for Nicole? Please share! And sentence or two about why you're recommending a place can be helpful.

A kid-friendly brunch or lunch spot?

Not enthused about the opening of another drinking establishment, Elena posted on AOA's Facebook page:

Please, share some family caffe options if you know one - I am trying to find a place where I can take my kids for brunch or lunch, that are NOT fast food, old stinky diner, or soggy pizza place. The perfect place for me would be a restourant or caffe with a cute kids play corner.

This is a good question. And, of course, opinions about what makes a place kid friendly or not are going to vary. Maybe it's a menu. Maybe it's the atmosphere. Maybe it's just that there's some space to run around a little bit.

So, got a suggestion for Elena? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're suggesting a place can be helpful.

Where to get a custom pint glass?

Sean emails:

Do any of your readers know of any local places where I could have a pint glass etched with a custom logo? There are tons of websites out there that do this, but I'd love to go local if possible.

These sorts of custom glasses are so common now, there's gotta be at least one local place that can do this.

Got a suggestion for Sean? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're recommending a place can be helpful.

photo: Deanna Fox

Where to take a couples massage class?

Jessica asks:

My husband has requested a couples massage class for Christmas, but I'm having trouble finding one through the internet. Most searches only point me to Couples Massages, but not Classes. Can anyone on AOA recommend one? One we can do on the weekend is preferable.

We can see the knot to be worked out here, finding a class rather than a massage itself. But maybe some of the places of that offers courses in massage therapy also have classes for couples. (And if not, maybe there's an opportunity for a new class.)

So, got a suggestion for Jessica? Please share! And a sentence or two to go along with suggestion can be helpful.

Earlier: Ask AOA: A good acupuncturist and/or massage therapist?

photo: Flickr user Jason Bagley (CC BY-SA 2.0 - cropped)

A good snow removal service in Albany?

Laura emails with a timely question:

Would you be willing to ask your readers to recommend a reliable, reasonably-priced residential snow removal service in Albany? Thank you.

We've had a similar question in the past, but things change. Businesses close, businesses open.

So, got a suggestion for Laura? Please share! And sentence or two about why you're recommending a service can be helpful.

Lessons for flying a drone?

Lindsey emails:

I'm looking to gift drone lessons to a family member for the holidays this year, and am struggling to find much in the Capital Region area. I have found a few classes at Hudson Valley Community College, but beyond that I have come up with nothing. I'm wondering if any AOA readers might know of anyone who offers lessons in the area, or even within a short distance (Hudson Valley region, Central NY). Thank you!

As Lindsey mentions, HVCC does offer drone flying classes, which can lead to a certification. They're 12 hours and 6 hours long (on multiple days) and cost roughly $1,000 and $500. So we're curious if there's something out there shorter and cheaper for hobbyists just looking to get some of the basics.

Got a suggestion for Lindsey? Please share!

The rules
While we're on topic, here are the FAA rules for flying drones. There are two sets -- one for hobbyists, and the other people using them for work.

photo: Flickr user Peter Linehan (CC BY 2.0)

Opportunities for volunteering around Thanksgiving?

Rebecca emails:

I'm wondering about any volunteer opportunities in the area for Thanksgiving.. I know about Equinox but maybe there are smaller or less known organizations that might need help, either with food donations or a warm body to prep/serve/deliver? Thanks

We've had similar holiday volunteering questions in the past, but we like the idea of shining some light on smaller or lesser-known orgs that could use the help.

So, got a suggestion for Rebecca and other looking to lend a hand? Please share! And sentence or two about why're suggesting an org can be helpful.

Ideas for interesting indoor spots for family photos?

Maclain asks:

Hi - I'm looking for suggestions on locations where I can have indoor family pictures taken in the Albany area. The weather is turning so I'm looking for a place to do a photo shoot for a family pic (not a studio). Anyone have any suggestions? Thanks!

There's something about those staged in-studio family photo sessions that makes everything look like it's from 1980something. So finding some sort of other setting is a fun idea.

It seems like there are probably too considerations here: 1) What's a good place, and 2) What's a place where that's allowed.

Go a suggestion for Maclain and family? Please share! A sentence or two about why you're suggesting a place can be helpful.

Interior designer or decorator suggestions?

Christina emails:

Can you ask your readers to recommend any interior decorators or designers they have worked with? I am looking for some help for my living room, but don't want to commit to buying everything at once, so a focus on someone I can pay to help me with a plan that I can implement over time would be great.

A designer can be an added expense for a home project. But we're often pleasantly surprised by how a talented designer can look at a building/space/place and see solutions, angles, and ideas a non-designer might miss. And if you buy a home that needs a lot of updating, being able to talk over a plan with someone who does this often could be a help.

So, got suggestion for Christina -- whether it's a designer or some other sort of resource? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're recommending a person/service can be a big help.

Earlier: Help with kitchen renovation design?

photo: Paul Gallo

Where to get furniture repaired?

Theresa emails:

I was wondering if you could please ask your readers if anyone knows of a place to get furniture fixed. I have a wooden chair that broke and I prefer to not throw it out.

We had a similar question years ago, but things change. Businesses close. Businesses open. Businesses move.

Also: So much stuff now seems to be made with the intention of being disposable, either by design or carelessness. It's kind of gratifying when you actually fix something and extend its life.

So, got a suggestion for Theresa? Please share! And sentence or two about why you're suggesting a place can be helpful.

Good lawn mowing service in Albany?

Alie emails:

We just bought a house in the Pine Hills neighborhood, and are hoping to find someone who can mow our lawn until the end of the season (and potentially continue next season on a regular schedule). We tried a friend's company, but they were booked solid and didn't have room for an additional client this late in the season. Open to a professional landscaping company or a reliable kid with a mower who wants to make a few bucks in his free time.

"Reliable Kid With a Mower" really should be a name that someone uses. Generation Z, get on that.

Got a suggestion for Alie? Please share! And, as usual, a sentence or two about why your suggesting a service/company/person or some other option can be very helpful.

Good spots for dancing?

KT emails:

I am wondering if there are any places for older people (late thirties early 40's) to go dancing?

Been almost 15 years since I have been in the bar "scene" but I have a few things I need to celebrate and only dancing will do!

This question has come up before, but it's been a few years and things change.

So, got a suggestion for KT? Please share!

photo: Flickr user dichohecho (cc)

Where to get a thorough interior cleaning for a car?

Michael emails:

I am inquiring about a good car detailing service. Any suggestions? ... My car took a beating on vacation at the beach!

Once sand gets in the car it can be hard to get out. Also, it's kind of amazing how different a car feels after a good interior cleaning.

So, got a suggestion for Michael? Please share! And sentence or two about why you're suggesting a place or service can be helpful.

Good camping spots that are away from crowds?

Sean emails:

I was wondering if any of your readers had any recommendations for some good, isolated camping spots. There are plenty of large, multi-unit camping spots where there are 100+ lots. I'm more interested in areas that have more privacy, while still offering some swimming / fishing.

Sometimes one of the joys about being out in the forest is not being around a bunch of other people. (Of course, we're all other people to other people.)

So, got a suggestion for Sean? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're recommending a spot can be helpful.

Earlier: Good spots for camping with kids?

photo: Casey Normile

Good swimming spots for dogs?

Laura emails:

We added a puppy to our family this spring and now that the days are hot and humid, I was hoping someone would have a suggestion on where to take our pooch swimming. We are looking for a place where we wouldn't be breaking any laws by letting our guy in the water.

Following the rules is an important consideration, and we'll add another one: water quality.

So, got a suggestion for Laura and her dog? Please share! And sentence or two about why you're suggesting a spot can be helpful.

Where to get a hybrid or electric car serviced?

Mark emails:

I've been on the hunt for a mechanic that specializes/is-well-versed in electric/hybrid cars, but have failed to bag anything.

I have taken my traditional vehicle to a shop that I am very pleased with, but I hesitate to bring this new space-age vehicle to the same place, because...well, I don't know. Am I overthinking this? Is a car just car? ...

P.S. Dealerships are sure to be the knee-jerk answer to this, but, you know, they're dealerships.

This is something we hadn't really thought about before. And the fundamental question Mark seems like a good one: Is a hybrid or electric car "just" like any other car when it comes to getting it serviced, or is there special expertise involved.

So, got experience or thoughts or a suggestion on this topic? Please share! If you're recommending a shop, a sentence or two about why you're recommending a place can be helpful.

Earlier:
+ Capital Region Recommended Mechanics
+ New York State is now offering a rebate for electric cars

Experiences with Uber and Lyft so far?

KGB emails:

I was wondering if any of your readers have tried ride sharing locally, and if they wanted to comment on their experiences. I'm going from Albany to an event in Berne. I'd love to be able to have more than one drink (old friends, good times). Should I try?

We're curious about people's experiences so far, too -- specifically about prices for trips and wait times, and whether you picked Uber or Lyft (and why).

So, if you tried one of these services locally, please share!

An attorney for religious organizations?

M. emails:

Do you have any suggestions for area law firms sensitive to the laws/financial regulations for religious organizations and who have experience working with small religious communities?

This might be a tough question because it's narrowly focused, but we're surprised how often when we get a question like this and then someone pops up with just the right suggestion. We're curious if maybe an attorney who often works with non-profits might also be of help.

So, got a suggestion for M.? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're suggesting a certain attorney or law firm can be a big help.

photo: Flickr user Edinburgh City of Print (CC BY 2.0)

Alternatives to giving money to panhandlers?

K emails:

I was in Philly recently and I heard from locals that panhandling had decreased incredibly since programs were set up where individuals could donate to groups that help the homeless. Is there something similar in Albany?

Some municipalities distribute business card type handouts that you can give to a panhandler instead of cash, since the money you give to the panhandler will only "help" them, but if you give to charities or groups that work with those communities your money can help a lot more people.

It feels like there's been an upswing lately in people asking for money on the street. Just the other day we encountered three people in downtown Albany doing so all within the span of a block. And it's rare to not see people asking for money at some of the major intersections near the interstate exchanges. (Whether there actually has been an upswing -- and if so, why -- is a good question. Perception is not necessarily reality.)

So we're interested to hear how people handle these sorts of situations. Do you give the person money? Do you offer other sorts of help? And more directly towards K's question, are there better ways to go about helping people?

A good wash-and-fold service in Albany?

Danny emails:

My wife and I just moved to an apartment building in center square with not great laundry facilities. In the past, we have used wash and fold services to save time. I would do some research myself, but high prices and the wide availability of laundromats make experiments complicated. There are a handful of reviews on the internet, but they provide inconsistent data about quality, price, forms of payment accepted, etc. Delivery is not a big deal in our case, but great to have the option. Any thoughts or recommendations you have will be appreciated! Thank you.

It sounds Danny and his wife are looking for a place around the Center Square/downtown Albany area, but delivery would probably widen that range.

So, got a suggestion for them? Please share! And sentence or two about why you're recommending a place can be helpful.

A stylist for long, curly hair?

Jordan emails:

Hello. I moved to the area two years ago. I have beautiful long curly hair. I'm really picky about who I let cut it and am really protective of it. For two years I've actually flown back to my previous place to meet up with some friends, and while there, got my hair cut at my old stylist. She had 13 years of experience with a focus on curly hair and had a studio with one chair. She cut my hair perfectly, layered everything just right, everything. Comforting, knowledgeable, the whole nine. But I can't go back this year, and I need a cut. The whole thing tended to cost around $70, and I typically tip 100%, because changing a part of my body that take years and years to grow is a big deal for me.

I'm looking for a person in the area similar to her. She was affable, easy to talk too, covered in tattoos, and the 1.5 hour cut was never awkward or silent. Who in town is like this? Price isn't an issue, just skill, lots of experience, and a good positive environment.

We had a similar question in the past, but it was many years ago. And things change, shops close, stylists move.

So, got a suggestion for Jordan? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're recommending a specific stylist can be helpful.

photo: Flickr user quinn.anya (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Bars or restaurants with an Albany skyline view?

A question from Jim:

Looking for a bar or restaurant with a view of the Albany skyline that is also outside... A roof preferably.

You might think there would be a lot of spots like this because Albany does have a rather distinctive skyline. When we thought about it, though, there wasn't much that came to mind. A lot of other cities/metro areas have dining/parks/whatever that take advantage of these sorts of views -- especially along rivers -- but this area not as much (in part because of 787, probably). Maybe that's starting to change with new development on the Rensselaer side of the Hudson across from downtown Albany. And maybe new amenities -- like the proposed/hoped-for pedestrian walkway on the next Livingston Ave Bridge -- would help spur that sort use and development.

But maybe you know of some spots. If so, please share!

A good place to buy plants for a late-start vegetable garden?

Vexed in Voorheesville emails:

Due to the weather and a busy schedule, I still haven't planted my vegetable garden. Does anyone have a good suggestion for a nursery with a healthy and reliable stock of plants?

The plant sales held by orgs such as Capital Roots and the Cornell Cooperative Extension are good places to score these sorts of places. Unfortunately, those sales have already happened.

So, have a suggestion for Vexed's late-start vegetable garden? Please share!

Restaurants with really good dining experiences, not necessarily fancy?

Melissa asks:

Assume money's no issue - what's your top dining experience recommendation in the area?

Any level of fancy is fine, just looking for places that people had really good experiences. The kind of meal that is memorable. The kind of place you go "remember that night, that was really great"

It might be a real "fine dining" or someplace you had a really great pub meal, but the environment and service were really memorable.

We understand Melissa is looking for this spot for a special occasion.

Of course, tastes and preferences are very subjective. But, to us, that last part of her question is key. In our experience, high prices or formality don't necessarily translate into great meals or experiences (in fact, sometimes it's just the opposite).

Got a suggestion or two for Melissa.? Please share!

A good acupuncturist and/or massage therapist?

Melissa emails:

I would love to hear who the aoa community recommends in regards to body healing and mind healing.

We hear from Melissa that she's specifically interested in acupuncturists and massage therapists. (And for the mind healing part of her question, we had a question about therapists not too long ago.)

So, have a good person or place to recommend? Please share! And sentence or two about your recommendation can be helpful.

photo: Flickr user Marnie Joyce (CC BY 2.0)

A chef for at-home celebration?

Anonymous emails:

Some friends and I wanted to host a small private dinner to celebrate and we are looking for suggestions of private chefs who could host a weekday meal at our apartment. Can you help?

In addition to private chefs who might be able to cater an in-house dinner, we're curious if there might be other options that are maybe more flexible -- maybe something along the lines of a pre-prepared dinner that can be served with minimal effort.

Got a suggestion for Anonymous? Please share! And a sentence or two about why're recommending a chef or service can be a help.

Experiences to share about Albany schools?

Eric emails:

I live in Pine Hills and it offers just about everything I'm looking for: a (relatively) safe, walkable neighborhood, lots of parks, some diversity, interesting people... The problem is that my kid is about to enter the school system and I'm hearing things about the Albany school district that concern me. My experience as a former teacher was that the kids who graduate from the upper level programs at Albany are more well-prepared for life after high school and college than many of their suburban council peers. I've heard that smart, but lower-performing kids are being pushed into the honors classes in hopes of helping them achieve more, but the real effect is that the honors classes are being dumbed down.

I've seen several comments on AOA from parents who are proudly raising their kids in Albany, so I'd love to hear what their experiences are with the schools. Are they happy with the public schools? Are they sending their kids to charter or private schools?

Thanks for the help!

Based on similar previous conversations, we're guessing people probably do have a few thoughts to share. And something that's been very clear in conversations both here on AOA and in-person is that kids, families, and situations are varied and often in different in their own ways. What might be right for one family might not necessarily work for another. So we'd just like to gently remind everyone to be respectful of that.

So, have some thoughts for Eric? Please share!

Earlier on AOA:
+ Ask AOA: Which school district should our family pick?
+ How Albany can make its case better for why young families should stay

Where to get an Apple laptop fixed?

This question is from Greg, but we'll block quote it because tradition.

A string of keys on my Macbook Pro recently stopped working intermittently. After cleaning the keyboard and doing some troubleshooting, I'm guessing I need to replace the keyboard. (It is otherwise a very solid machine.)

I thought about doing it myself, but after watching a few videos and seeing how much needs to be taken apart (and put back together), I think finding someone who does this regularly is a good idea.

There's the Apple store, of course. But it seems like the turnaround time on repairs there is often longer than I'd like. So, I'm curious if there are other local options people might recommend.

As it happens, not being able to consistently type the letters T, Y, I, O, U is a drag on productivity.

Got a suggestion? Please share! Thank you!

Recommendations for summer weekend stuff in the eastern Adirondacks?

Sean emails:

My friends and I are meeting up for the weekend at a lake-house just east of Keeseville this coming June. Having never stayed in that area, I was wondering if any of your readers might have recommendations for things to do, places to eat, etc. Thanks!

Keeseville is on the Clinton/Essex county line along the Ausable River. It's roughly about as far north as Burlington (but, you know, on the New York side of Lake Champlain.) We're guessing there's a bunch of good summer stuff to do around there.

So, got a suggestion for Sean and his friends? Please share!

photo: Casey Normile

A quintessential Capital District "thing" to do with visiting friends?

Rebecca emails:

I have some friends visiting from D.C.for Memorial Day weekend..one half of the couple has never been to this area and is really looking forward to it. I have a few things planned (we all like food, booze, history, and walking around so those areas are covered but I'm open to related suggestions) but I'm wondering what readers think is a quintessential Capital District "thing" I can do with them? Meaning, what activity/place/experience is a "must do" while visiting this area? Thanks!

As you know, there are many good things in this area. And there are a lot of fun things to do as summer starts. (It will start. Probably.) But that "thing" that's really says Albany or this area... we've always thought there isn't a clear answer to that.

So... got a suggestion for Rebecca and her friends? Please share! We'd love to hear it.

How should we respond when someone is being clearly inappropriate in public?

This question comes from Greg, but we'll block quote it in standard Ask AOA format:

I was in line at the supermarket this past weekend when the guy in front of me got upset with the cashier and flipped out. The details involved a pack of cigarettes, a Coinstar voucher, and a roll of the quarters. From my view, it seemed like the kind of thing that would usually prompt, at most, mild irritation in someone.

The cashier appeared to be from south Asia -- she had an accent -- and I got the impression she was relatively new on the job. As things escalated, I was basically trying to divert my attention -- oh, look, magazines -- until I heard the guy say "THIS IS AMERICAN CURRENCY" while holding up the roll of quarters. And there was something about the tone that wasn't just frustration -- it was condescending and hostile.

Now I'm staring straight at the guy, and I think other people up front are doing the same thing. The manager comes over and I give her a lot of credit -- she firmly tells the guy not to talk to the cashier like that and she completes whatever transaction he was trying to accomplish. He's still upset, though, and huffs as he walks away.

I'm up next and the cashier is visibly flustered. I commiserate with her, and tell her if she needs to take a minute, it's totally understandable. She shakes it off and checks out my stuff. We joke a little bit. Her composure was admirable.

So, here's a question I had after all that: What should a bystander do in that situation?

Even though this guy was being completely inappropriate, my instinct was to not get involved out of concern that would escalate the situation. And though there was a moment early on where the direction of the encounter was unclear, the manager quickly had it handled after she came over.

I guess I wonder if we all have some responsibility in those situations to make sure we're not making it seem like it's OK to act like that. Is silence a form of tacit acceptance? Is there a good way to communicate a healthy social norm about the way people should be treated?

These sorts of situations are hard, and the right thing to do might vary depending on the details. But if you have thoughts to share, we'd like to hear them.

Ideas for stuff to do that don't involve alcohol?

Emily emails:

You've been very helpful in the past to others so I'm hoping you help me out. I'm wondering if you could ask readers for sober activities around the capital region. I recently stopped drinking and it wasn't until then that realized just how much recreation/socialization revolves around alcohol. I'm very open minded and willing to try anything, but I'm looking for something a little more outside the box than hiking Thacher Park. I appreciate the help. I'm sober, not dead!

Sometimes it does feel a bit like "just add booze" is the recipe for many events.

So, it sounds like Emily's willing to try some new things. Got a suggestion? Great, please share!

Advice on navigating the local daycare scene?

Ak reached out with this question:

I need some help with childcare. I am a full time graduate student and I am having terrible luck with daycare. Everyone is on a waiting list. and it seems the ones with openings are not up to par. Please help!!!!!!!!!!!

I'm located in the Troy area. But I am a full time student in Albany. So anywhere in those regions. My son is 5 months old and I have been in multiple waitlist since I was pregnant. Including Samaritan, ualbany kids and Albany med. ...

Im definitely worked about who can care for my child especially this being my first child. I've been relying on family but am looking for something more consistent and stable. It would be great if you could post this. Thanks so much!

We've had daycare questions in the past, including one a little more than a year ago and there are some thoughtful suggestions there.

The thing that struck us about Ak's question is that if you're a new parent -- or new to the area -- it might be difficult to get a handle on how the daycare scene here works. Like any complicated (formal or informal) system, even if you're willing to put the time in to search and research sometimes you're still left with the question: Which (literal or figurative) line should I be standing in right now?

So... If you have a a suggestion for Ak about a specific daycare, great. But we're also hoping some parents with young children might be able to share some advice about the best way to navigate the daycare scene here. A few sentences on that could be a big help.

Classes or a trainer to help a dog with a fear of kids and strangers?

Jeff asks via Twitter:

Seeking recs on dog behavior training; mainly to correct fear of children. Jody crushed the 2012 topic but retired & moved.

I'm open to individual training/classes, but most offerings seem to be general training & behavior. Specifically need work w/ kids/strangers

Jeff's reference to "the 2012 topic" was a question back then about puppy classes. (Props to Jeff to searching first before asking.)

Training can make a huge difference for a dog -- and the dog's people. It can help everyone be happier and calmer. It really is worth the effort.

So, got a suggestion for Jeff and his dog? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're recommending a trainer or class can be a big help.

Advice for finding mental health support groups?

K emails:

Could anyone offer advice at finding mental health support groups? Or where various AA groups meet?

We're hoping that maybe there are some local orgs that serve as central hubs for this sort of information.

Have a suggestion for K? Please share. And a sentence or two explaining your suggestion can be a big help.

Good place for buying spring/Easter plants?

Kristin emails:

I am looking for a local nursery that sells beautiful Spring/Easter plants, such as lillies, hyacinths, tulips, etc.With the first day of spring (almost) behind us, and the holiday approaching, I am hoping your readers can provide some good suggestions!

These sorts of plants seem to pop up in all sorts of stores around this time of year, often packaged for easy giving. But, as Kristin mentions, we suspect you're going to find the best selection and quality at a local nursery or a shop that regularly deals in flowers.

Got a favorite spot for buying these types of plants? Please share!

Options for getting prints of local historical photos?

Dave emails:

I live in Albany in a craftsman style home circa 1911, and would like to add some historic Albany photos as decor in my home. I've heard there are free archives of photos that can be obtained somewhere online? Any ideas where/how I could find some photos?

There's been a boom in online collections of historical photos over the past decade, with sites such as New York Heritage working with local organizations to digitize and post thousands of images.

The thing is that often the rights issues around these images are a little murky. Some collections -- such as the New York Public Library -- make it explicit which images are in the public domain. Others allow them to used for educational purposes, but require written permission for other uses. Others leave things kind of vague. (Some works are in the public domain because of when they were published.)

It's also worth mentioning that there are places to sell local historical photos -- example: At The Warehouse/Silver Fox Salvage in Albany usually has a large of selection.

So, all that said, got an idea or suggestion for Dave? (Or maybe even idea for how local orgs could make it easy for people buy copies of historical photos in their collections?) Please share!

photo via Albany Public Library - Pruyn Collection of Albany History

Good places for a large company picnic?

J. emails:

I'm helping to plan a company picnic for my office (approximately 200 people) and we're trying to think of new ideas for where to hold it. Last year we did it at the track which was fun but we are trying to think of something different so we aren't doing the same thing every year. In past year's we have done it at Lanthier's grove.

Our office is in Albany and we're open to anything in the Capital Region. I'm hoping maybe your readers can help us come up with some good suggestions!

On follow-up with J., her company would like to find a place that could cater the picnic, but they could arrange to have food brought in if they find a place they like without it. And they'd like to spend less than $40 per person. Also: "Doesn't necessarily have to be something where the entire family (kids) can go."

Got a suggestion for J. and her company? Please share! And a sentence or two about why're suggesting a place can be helpful.

Local women-owned businesses?

Julia messages:

Hi there! Do you know if anyone has ever compiled a list of women-owned businesses around the Albany area? Looking for people to support today (and every day!), and it occurred to me that it'd be great to have a list to reference!

We got a similar question this week from Melissa via Twitter.

This a wide-angle question and could include many types of businesses. Got some favorite local women-owned business? We'd love to hear about them.

Are you the owner of such a business? Please don't hesitate to mention it.

Good physical therapist for back problems?

Jennifer emails:

Any chance you can ask your readers for suggestions on a good physical therapist for the lower back? I have been to a few different places around town over the years and seem to always get stuck with folks fresh out of school with little experience.

In addition to physical therapy, we're curious if there are other things -- like maybe specific yoga or other exercise classes in the area -- that people have have found helpful for back problems. (Of course, you'd always want to check with your doctor ahead of time to make sure any sort of other exercise wouldn't make the problem worse.)

So, got a a suggestion for Jennifer? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're recommending a specific therapist or program can be very helpful.

Progressive, warm, vibrant Jewish congregations?

AH writes that her family is looking ahead to a move to Albany:

So I'd love to hear any suggestions of progressive, warm, and vibrant Jewish congregations/communities. Having a good religious school and/or activities for young families would be a bonus. We lean Conservative, but can be flexible on the denomination.

AH's question was prompted in part by the earlier question this week about progressive churches and the helpful responses it garnered.

So, got a suggestion for AH and her family? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're recommending a specific congregration can be very helpful.

photo: Flickr user Ted Eytan (CC BY-SA 2.0) (cropped)

A progressive, friendly, diverse church?

M. writes:

Hi I recently moved to Albany and I am looking for a good church hopefully one that is progressive, friendly and diverse.

We've had similar questions in the past, but it's been years since the last one and things change.

So, got a suggestion for M.? Please share! And sentence or two about why you're recommending a specific church can be very helpful.

An LGBT-friendly obstetrician/gynecologist?

C. emails:

My wife and I are looking to start the process of getting pregnant, but we'd like to make sure that our OBGYN is someone who is open to same sex couples and knowledgeable about that process. If anyone has suggestions for doctors in and around the Albany/Troy area that they have had positive experiences with, we'd appreciate it!

An important question! With so many questions we get here about doctors, one of the central issues is often people wanting to find a doctor who takes the time to listen and answer questions. So if you have a physician to recommend, it'd be helpful to hear about the aspect of the experience.

Got a suggestion for C. and her wife? Please share!

photo:Flickr user Adrian Clark (CC BY-ND 2.0)

Good diaper options, especially cloth diaper services?

Laura emails:

My partner and I are expecting a baby in early May and we're exploring all of the different diapering options out there. We haven't settled on anything yet but we're hoping to find out more information about cloth diapering services. Do readers in the area use a service? Are there any in the area? Web searches have only yielded places that have closed in recent years.

This topic of cloth diaper services came up many years ago, but as Laura mentions, it looks like the services mentioned then are all no longer operating.

So, got a suggestion for Laura and her partner? Please share! And a sentence or two about you're recommending a service (or strategy) can be very helpful.

photo: Flickr user Ben Husmann (CC BY 2.0)

Resources for dealing with possible labor violations?

Anonymous emails:

A friend of mine, who is a salaried employee for a local small business, is running into some pretty serious difficulties with her boss that she feels could be infringing on her rights (forced unpaid overtime, threats to slash salary, verbal abuse, etc). Do any of your readers have any experience dealing with this kind of thing or know of anywhere she might be able to turn to learn more about her rights as a worker and find an acceptable solution?

This sounds like a stressful situation, even more so if you don't know where to start in figuring out how to address it.

So, have a suggestion for resources, strategies -- maybe even an attorney -- for Anonymous and their friend? Please share. And including sentence or two about why you're recommending a resource or person can be a big help.

Indoor swimming for adults during the winter?

Brooks emails:

Could you help me find a place where adults can swim in the winter? I live in Colonie and I know about the Ciccotti Center, but it's way out of my price range.

Sometimes it's hard to get exercise during the winter because of the weather, but it's worth the effort -- you'll feel better for it, about yourself and about winter.

So, got a suggestion for Brooks? Please share! And sentence or two about why you're recommending a place can be a big help.

photo: Flickr user Thomas R. Stegelmann (CC BY 2.0)

Local orgs or charities to support that are making a difference right now?

photo: Flickr user Hamed Saber (CC BY 2.0)

I. emails (emphasis added):

In response to our current political climate, and in honor of the people fighting to protect our rights, I'd like to begin financially supporting organizations that are making an actual difference in peoples daily lives. National organizations are easy to find, but I'm hoping for some recommendations of local groups helping people in our community.

I'm particularly interested in groups that work with women and children - providing assistance to domestic violence victims, healthcare for children, diapers for parents who can't afford them, feminine hygiene products for homeless women, etc.

We get the feeling there are a lot of people like I. right now who are looking for ways to do something that makes a difference. And as we've mentioned before, focusing some of your energy on local issues and causes can be a way to do that.

So, know of a good local charity or org or cause for I. and others to support right now? Please share. And sentence or two about why to support that charity is appreciated.

A good contractor for installing a fence?

Erica emails:

I'm writing to ask for any recommendations for fencing companies. I know there are a number of options in the Albany area but I'd like to get a recommendation from someone who's had good experience with a company. The AOA community has been great with other topics so I thought I'd give this a shot too. Thanks!

As Erica mentions, there do seem to be at least of handful of companies out there that install fencing. So if you have suggestions, great.

To extend Erica's a question a little bit... We're also curious if there are companies that specialize in various types of fencing, whether it's wood or metal. Or if there are companies that tend do a lot of work on styles of fencing that go beyond the typical stockade style or chain link.

So, got a suggestion for Erica? Please share! And as with any question like this, a sentence or two about why you're recommending a company can be a big help.

Good places for gluten-free desserts?

A gluten-free cookie from a Peck's Arcade pop-up. As the pastry chef there, Gregory Kern, mentioned last year, the items on the dessert menu were gluten free. / photo: Steve Noisseau

Fred emails:

Hey gang, you've never steered me wrong before, and I'm looking for some gluten free restaurants, or some places that offer gluten free menus. I have been eating paleo for a while now, and have started dating a girl who has celiacs (I swear, we're not annoying about it!!), and am looking for some good places for dinner or desserts.

As Fred mentions in his email, we've touched on this topic a bunch of years ago. And the topic of restaurants with good gluten-free options came up again last year.

But we figured it could be good to focus on spots with good gluten-free desserts -- whether they're restaurants or some sort of other outlet. Because what's life without dessert? (It's also interesting from a culinary perspective because of the creativity the challenge prompts in chefs, much like vegan food.)

So, got a suggestion for good spots in the area for getting gluten-free desserts? Please share! And sentence or two about why you're recommending a place can be helpful.

Opportunities for becoming more politically and socially active in the community?

Alyssa emails:

Hey AOA! After the most recent election, I'm looking to be more politically and socially active in the community. Know of any local activist groups I can join?

We've heard something similar from a lot of people recently, that they're interested in actively getting involved with some sort of cause, campaign, or effort. So, we'll expand Alyssa's question a little bit to include not just activist groups, but also non-profits pushing for change that have volunteer opportunities.

Got a suggestion for Alyssa, if not a specific group then maybe a cause to focus on? Please share!

Earlier on AOA: It's time to dig in.

Places to look for local gifts?

This ESP mini bowling set at the souvenir stand inside Cider Belly gave us a big smile this year.

Kara emails:

I'm relatively new to town, having moved here over the summer. So I'm still learning my way around and getting to know the best local spots, activities and products. I'm a big fan of buying local in general and when I lived in Ann Arbor, I loved buying local coffee and treats as gifts for visiting friends or for Christmas.

I'd love to ask the All Over Albany community - what are your go-to local gifts and where can I find them?

For the last few years -- including 2015 and 2014 -- we've asked a bunch of people about the sorts of items they'd like to give as part of a "holiday gifts" series. There are some ideas in there.

Got ideas for local-themed or -sourced gifts for newcomers such as Kara? What's your go-to local gift spot? Please share!

Stained glass window repair in a home?

Susan emails:

I am looking for someone who repairs stained glass windows and don't know where to begin. I got name of one vendor, but they mainly work on large windows, such as those in churches.

We have a 1930 home with small stained glass windows. They are starting to come apart. It looks like a previous owner attempted some home repair on them. I don't know if the windows are salvageable, especially withe the bad repair job, but I really want to try to repair them rather than replace them with cheesy contemporary windows.

Do your readers have any recommendations?

There are a bunch of older homes around this area with small stained glass windows. In the city of Albany, at least, you can often find the windows on either side of the fireplace. So, there's gotta be someone who can repair these sorts of windows.

Got a suggestion for Susan? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're recommending a person or service can a be a big help.

A service for cleaning hard-to-reach exterior windows?

S. emails:

I'm trying to have my windows cleaned (outside), but they are difficult to reach, neither my friends or myself are comfortable climbing up there.

I searched on AOA, but it doesn't seem this question was ever asked (?). If you think this would be of interest to somebody else, and if it's not too specific for AOA, I'd love to hear from people.

S. is right -- we haven't had this question before. And we're a little surprised it hasn't come up before. Given all the old homes in this area (with old windows), there are probably quite a few people for whom cleaning the outside of their upper-floor windows isn't an easy thing.

So, got a suggestion for S. -- either a company or an idea of how to solve the problem? Please share! And as with any question likes this, a sentence or two about why you're recommending a company can be very helpful.

Where to get jeans altered or repaired?

D. emails:

I recently acquired some great second hand jeans, but the legs are too long. Is there anywhere in the Capital Region that can alter blue jeans? Or for that matter, does anyone repair blue jeans around here?

We've had tailor/seamstress questions in the past -- but it's been a bunch of years since the last one.

Got a suggestion for D.? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're recommending a place can be helpful.

Good neighborhoods for trick-or-treating?

Sean emails:

I was wondering if your readers could weigh-in with the places they think are the best neighborhoods for trick-or-treating. Our family had a lot of fun exploring a new neighborhood last year and were hoping to do the same this year.

On a tangent from Sean's question: Candy and costumes get most of the attention for Halloween, but one of the great -- yet probably under appreciated -- things about the holiday is the way neighborhoods become, at least for one night, explicitly open and friendly to people we might not know. There's something heartening about that.

Anyway... got a suggestion for Sean and his family? Please share! A sentence or two about why you're recommending a neighborhood is helpful.

Design help for renovating a small kitchen?

D. emails:

We are wondering if you can help us with recommendations from your readers about kitchen designers locally. We have an old brownstone with a very oddly configured kitchen, and want to do some upgrades. We need help maximizing the space and achieving the look we want. Would your readers have any insight on a kitchen designer creative enough to do this?

We're not looking for the typical overbuilt Chef's Kitchen, but rather a modern take on a smaller space.

We had a similar question a few years back. But we're interested in the small space/odd space part of D.'s question. There are so many older homes in this area with kitchens that are, by modern standards, small or cramped or just lacking certain amenities that people often look for now. So we'd love to hear how people adapt and update these spaces.

Got a suggestion for D.? Either a designer to recommend or resource to check out or even an experience to share? Do tell, please! And a sentence or two about why you're recommending a place or designer can be a big help.

Good used bookstores for children's books?

Val emails:

I'm looking for some good used bookstores in the area - particularly ones that have a good selection of children's books.

It looks like this question was asked once before but it was 4+ years ago and it seems that a few of those places have closed since then. :(

We're especially interested in the the part of Val's question about children's books -- we're curious if there's some place that specializes in used books for kids.

Got a suggestion for Val? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're suggesting a place can be a big help.

A good primary care practice or doctor?

Nate emails:

I have been living in Albany for nearly five years and still have yet to find a good primary care/family practice/internal medicine physician. I have gone to two different practices and still have yet to find a doctor who doesn't treat you like a filler in between appointments and whose office staff is not outright rude and hostile.

I have found that the PAs, nurses, and office staff in the office are as important as the doctor, especially since they are often tasked with important things such as prescription refills, something my current doctor's office has repeatedly made mistakes on.

We've had this question come up before, but we looked through the archive and it's been years since the last similar question about this type of doctor. And things change.

Also: It's worth highlighting Nate's point about the importance of the other health care providers and staff in a practice beyond the doctors. They can make a big difference.

So, got a doctor or practice to suggest to Nate? Please share! And just a reminder that a sentence or two about why you're recommending a practice or doctor (good listener, on-time appointments, and so on) can be a big help.

photo: Flickr user Adrian Clark (CC BY-ND 2.0)

A good hair stylist in the Albany area?

Jen asks via Twitter (and a series of tweets):

I swear I ask once a year at least, but I can't seem to get my ish together finding a hair stylist I like. Suggestions? Cc: @alloveralbany

Not too concerned about $ bc I only get my hair cut 3-4x/yr. Just want somewhere convenient (location + hrs), high quality, & not sales-y.

My last stylist was great but her hrs are limited & no longer work w my schedule. Went to John Paul last & it was fine but very sterile.

Albany area, I would say within a 10-20 min drive from Center Square. Guilderland, Loudonville, Colonie, Delmar, EG.

Similar questions have been popped up in the past, but we checked the archive today and it's been (at least) a few years. And things changed, shops close, stylists move.

So, got a suggestion for Jen? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're recommending a person or shop can be a big help.

photo: Flickr user Quinn Dombrowski, cropped (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Favorite local apple ciders?

Sean emails:

I've had the pleasure of visiting a handful of different apple orchards already this season and have noticed that the taste / quality of the cider has varied significantly thus far.

Now I know there's been a lot of documentation done on the region's different cider donut offerings, but I haven't seen much of anything done on the cider itself. I was wondering if some of your readers could weigh-in with where their favorite local apple cider comes from.

Bonus points if anyone has knowledge on how much the flavor changes from month-to-month or year-to-year based on what kinds of apples go into the mix.

Sean's question makes us want to go out a buy a bunch of ciders from local orchards and have a taste comparison. (Hmm...)

We've heard that the flavor of an orchard's cider can change over the course of the apple season as the different varieties of apples are harvested and added to the mix. But we can't say we've had a "Hey, wow, this cider is so much more (something) than it was last month" experience. Maybe you have.

So, got thoughts on your favorite local cider? Or any insight on how the flavor of cider changes over the course of the season? Please share!

Golf lessons for adults?

Fred emails:

I'm trying to find some golf lessons in the Capitol Region, but haven't had much luck as far as suggestions. I know that every course has a pro who will (usually) give lessons, but I'd like to hear some recommendations. I'm not looking to become the next Tiger Woods here, just want to get myself playing at a level where I'm not embarrassing myself. I'm possibly looking for a place with indoor facilities, so I can brush up over the winter. And, I know this isn't a cheap sport, but I'd also like to avoid a huge price tag, if possible.

As Fred noted in his message, we had a similar questions a few years back about finding golf lessons for kids. As he wrote, "hoping that you would have some insight for us big kids."

We've been kind of curious about these indoors places, too, if only because they might be something to do during the winter that gets you up and moving.

So, got a suggestion for Fred? Please share!

A good property management company for renting out a home?

Miriam emails:

We're thinking of renting out a home we own in Latham and wanted to know if anyone had recommendations for property management companies who could handle finding tenants and administering the property. Thanks in advance!

We've known a few people who have rented out homes for a year because of temprory work moves or something similar, and there were a lot of details to nail down. So maybe a property managment company can make it easier. Or maybe you have other ideas to suggest.

Have a suggestion for Miriam? Please share! And sentence or two about why you're recommending of company can be a big help.

photo: Flickr user Joelk75 (CC BY 2.0)

Restaurants with good gluten-free options?

One of the things that's remarkable to us is that many places seem to have at least some gluten-free options now, and many spots work GF items into their menus as a matter of course. This cookie was part of the lunch from the from the Peck's Arcade Alleycarte pop-up in Troy -- it was gluten free. And as Peck's pastry chef Greg Kern notes in the comments, their entire dessert menu has been gluten free for the past year and a half. / photo: Steve Noisseau

Kara emails:

I was diagnosed with Celiac Disease a few months ago, and was wondering if you can solicit recommendations from your readers on area restaurants that are good for someone who has to follow a gluten free diet. I know you did this in 2011, but I'm hoping there are more places to add to the list at this point!

I have been to the New World Bistro Bar and El Loco so far and had great experiences at both. I'm especially interested in places that understand Celiac Disease and how to avoid cross contamination- that is really important but isn't always obvious from seeing a menu or website that has gluten free items listed (and may not be a concern for people who are following a gf diet for reasons other than Celiac). Thank you!!

As Kara mentions, this question has come up before -- and we even turned the suggestions into a map/listing. But that was five years ago, and things change. (Looking at that old listing, some of those places are no longer in business.)

So, got suggestions for Kara? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're suggesting a place can be very helpful.

A good divorce and child custody attorney?

K writes:

I'm looking for a good divorce and child custody attorney/advocate in the Albany, NY area. Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated. I don't expect this to be a full blown-out court battle. My soon to be ex-husband and I are trying to handle this as amicably as we can for the sake of our children. Mediation is not an option at this point, due to assets which need to be reviewed and divided. I was previously referred to Sommers and Sommers. Has anyone had any previous dealings with them? There aren't many online reviews, but they seem to have many years worth of experience. Opinions and suggestions are welcomed and appreciated. Thank you in advance for your help!

We had a question about divorce attorneys many years ago. But things change, and K's also looking for someone to help with the child custody issues.

Have a suggestion for an attorney? Please share. And a sentence or two about why you're recommending an attorney or firm can be a big help.

photo: Flickr user Gyver Chang (CC BY-ND 2.0)

A good home inspector for very old homes?

Christina emails:

Can you ask your readers if they have any recommendations for a home inspector? Specifically, one that will have experience with old homes (really old homes -1800s old).

We had a home inspector question a few years back, and some of those suggestions might still be helpful. But things change.

And we're also curious if there's a local home inspector or service that specializes in checking out homes that date back to the 19th century (of which there are a not-small number in this area). Because we suspect there could be issues specific to homes of that age.

So, got a suggestion for Christina? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're recommending a person or service can be very helpful.

Preferred bank or credit union?

Megan emails:

I just moved back to the area from the South and I really need a new bank, the one I had before I despised. I had a co-op in the South and loved it, but the one I came from doesn't seem to have any equivalents in the area. So what is the best bank/credit union in the area?

I really hate paying ATM fees, like ever, and I travel a lot so a large ATM network is key. Also a decent online banking system. And while I'm wishing and hoping maybe no foreign transaction fees...

Sometimes when you want ubiquity - like ATMs everywhere -- you have to sacrifice something else, like personal touch. We're curious to hear if people think that's the case in this situation.

So... got a suggestion for Megan? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're recommending a specific bank or credit union can be a big help.

Suggestions for youth soccer programs?

Sean emails:

Are any of your readers familiar with the youth soccer programs in the Capital District? We live in Albany and are looking for a way to introduce our current and future kids to organized soccer. We would love some help figuring out the options and getting some input on which ones people prefer.

Sean's question touches on something we've wondered about: Where are kids playing soccer in the city of Albany? Are there kids playing soccer in the city of Albany? We've seen a bunch of baseball diamonds and Little League games and some football games. But we can't remember passing a kids soccer game. That's always seemed weird, because in most places around the country soccer is a big youth sport. (And given that Albany has an increasing immigrant and refugee population -- including many people who come from soccer cultures -- it seems like there'd be even more kids who'd want to play.)

So, digression over... Got a suggestion or thought for Sean? Please share! And a sentence or two explaining your suggestion is always helfpul.

photo: Flickr user Kate Brady (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Suggestions for a tile installer (including one who might not mind an assistant)?

Jessica emails:

I'm looking for a tile contractor to do a small kitchen (16x16') and bathroom in Troy. I have the tile picked out, but need an installer. Looking for someone who is responsive, has some availability this month, and reasonably priced. I'd also be interested in working with someone that would let me participate in the work and learn for myself how to do it.

We had a similar tile question a few years back. But Jessica's interest in finding someone who'd let her work alongside and learn is a a different angle. And it makes us wonder if maybe the right candidate won't be a traditional contractor.

Got a suggestion for Jessica? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're recommending a person or business can be a big help.

Design help for organizing a house?

Melissa emails:

We've lived in our house 10 years, and are in need of some help. We are a family now, with all the 'stuff' that comes with that, and just cannot figure out how to make a more grown up house that uses space well and files away all the paperwork of elementary school. Are there local decorators/organizers folks can recommend? Is that a real thing?!

We're always amazed by how people who have eye for design can rearrange a space to make it work better or just feel better.

Got a suggestion for Melissa? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're recommending a person or service or idea is always helpful.

Ask AOA: Which school district should our family pick?

Sean emails with a question that's a little bit different -- his family has young children and they're thinking about where to settle. They are, in some sense, free agents looking for the right school district. From his email:

It's one thing to look at graduation statistics, crime statistics, etc and focus on the "bad" for reasons why you wouldn't want to live somewhere and have your kid go to those schools, or even using those stats to justify why your school is better ("my team is better than your team b/c yours sucks"). You also hear all kinds of anecdotes and stereotypes about various school districts, yet those only seem to encapsulate the best-of-the-best or the very worst of the students that pass through.

I'd be most interested in hearing people lobby for what they think is the best school system and associated community, and why. For example:

+ I think Albany schools are the best b/c kids get to experience (socially) what the real world is like. They will academically succeed or fail in any school district more or less the same, but here they are enriched to a degree that you can't get anywhere else in the region. Or...

+ I think Voorheesville schools are the best b/c the school system is small enough that everyone gets to participate in whatever they want - clubs, sports, music. Whether you're destined to become a PRO or are just trying something out, you will have a place on the team / in the group. Or...

+ I think Shen schools are the best because kids are put in a competitive environment where they truly have to earn their accolades, whether athletically or cognitively. The cream will rise to the top, but everyone will benefit from the competition.

In short, we get the feeling Sean is looking for reasons to actively pick a school district rather than reasons to not pick another district.

Of course, this is a complicated question. And the right situation for one family might not be the right situation for another. But if you have some thoughts to offer, please share! Even if you don't have a specific district suggestion, some thoughts on how to think about the decision could also be helpful.
____

Earlier on AOA:
+ How Albany can make its case better for why young families should stay
+ Ask AOA: Best Capital Region small town, village, or suburb for settling down?

Restoration or re-glazing for an antique tub?

Courtney emails:

We have a bathroom renovation coming up and I found an antique clawfoot tub to use in the bathroom. It needs a little TLC - can anyone recommend someone who specializes in re-glazing and restoration? Bonus points if they have experience with antiques!

The first idea that came to mind when we say Courtney's question was that a call to Historic Albany parts warehouse might be a good place to start -- they might have some suggestions.

But if you have a specific service or contractor to suggest, even better. Got someone in mind? Please share!

A good contractor for smaller around-the-house jobs?

M emails:

We have a few "honey-do" items around our house that need more than a amateur touch, but not a full blown "Bob Villa" contractor with a camera crew. Items such as grout work/repair, installing a grounded outlet, painting trim and a bilco door, some repairing of concrete work... I need someone I can trust, who is reasonable, but not a fly by night operative. Suggestions?

We get the impression it's hard to find someone to do these sorts of in-between level jobs -- maybe a little more complicated than a Saturday DYI project, but not big enough for a big contracting company.

So, got a suggestion for M? Please share! And a sentence or two about why're suggestion a person or company can be very helpful.

Contractor for building stoop replacement?

S emails:

I'm looking to have my stoop replaced, and I was wondering if I could summon the AOA crowd to find a good contractor.

There are a bunch of neighborhoods in the Capital Region where the buildings have stoops. And while it's a feature that no doubt lasts decades (or should), at some point things do crumble. So presumably there are contractors with expertise in rebuilding them.

Also: We wonder if there are contractors that specialize in building/replacing stoops in historic districts?

Got a suggestion for S? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're recommending a contractor can be very helpful.

photo: Casey Normile

A Chinese language teacher for group lessons?

Ewan emails:

After the Bethlehem School District [cut] Chinese instruction, we've been having weekly after-school lessons at our home for a small group of students who wanted to continue. Unfortunately, our teacher has a new job and a new baby, so she isn't able to continue: does anyone know of a good, English-fluent teacher of Chinese who might be interested in conducting such weekly sessions? Thanks!

Even if you don't have a specific person or org in mind, maybe you have some ideas for how Ewan can go about finding someone.

Got a suggestion? Please share!

image: Wikipedia user LiliCharlie (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Kid-friendly summer activities around the Lake Placid area?

Sean emails:

I was wondering if any of your readers have any advice for fun things to do with kids in the Lake Placid region. My family and I are heading up there in a couple of weeks and would love some extra input.

There are a bunch of things to see or do around that area, and we're guessing a fair number of them will work with kids.

So, got a suggestion for Sean and his family? Please share!

Earlier on AOA: The Wild Center (2011)

photo: Bennett V Campbell

The best place to buy olives?

Omar emails:

My girlfriend and I are starting to become Martini fanatics. We have a ratio we like but have yet to find the perfect olives. We are hoping someone knows a place to get great olives that have good flavor and a decent firmness. Bonus points if they're stuffed with a quality cheese (blue or Gorgonzola).

Thanks for the help!

A lot of supermarkets have olive bars now. But Omar's question makes us curious if there's some place -- maybe it is a supermarket, maybe a smaller market, maybe someplace completely different -- that is the place to buy olives around here. Because of quality or selection or whatever.

Got a suggestion? Please share! And a sentence or two about why they place is worth checking out is alway helpful.

Contractor for new driveway and grading to fix water runoff problem?

Anonymous writes:

A few times a summer we get water in our garage, and then our house, during heavy rains. After watching what happens (it's kind of hard to explain) we're now pretty sure we need a new driveway with new grading and maybe some additional drainage work. Maybe also an actual drain. Maybe some foundation work. We don't know for sure. Previous homeowners took some steps to address the problem and it seemed to help a bit, but we want to fix the problem for good.

We don't know exactly what sort of contractor we need. So we're hoping people might have suggestions. Both for type of contractor, and also for specific companies. Thank you.

As always with these sorts of questions, a sentence or two about why you're recommending a contractor can be a big help.

Got a suggestion for Anon? Please share!

A good pediatrician in Rensselaer County or nearby?

Nate emails:

I found this post from a few years ago regarding a search for local pediatricians and was wondering if you could repost. We're expecting our first child in July and we're on the hunt for a reputable pediatrician.

FYI - We live in Averill Park.

That earlier question is from 2011, so it's been a bunch of years and things change. Also: We're guessing Nate and his family are probably looking for a good practice somewhere in Rensselaer County or eastern Albany County.

So, got a suggestion for Nate? Please share! And as with most questions -- but especially with doctors -- a sentence or two about why you're recommending a practice (easy scheduling, good listeners, etc.) can be a big help.

photo: Flickr user Adrian Clark (CC BY-ND 2.0)

A spot for Mother's Day brunch that's a bit different -- and kid friendly?

Jamie emails:

Every year or family gets together for brunch on Mother's Day (6-8 adults and 3 children).

This year I'm trying to come up with a unique place that works for kids, but is more than a feeding frenzy around 50 chaffing dishes and 5 year olds in matching khakis lobbing marshmallows and old fruit into a chocolate fountain. Any ideas?

You know, some place should just go all in on the five year olds throwing marshmallows at a chocolate fountain concept. That could be a winner.

In all seriousness, the only thing we'll add for this topic is that if you're thinking about going out for brunch on Mother's Day, MAKE A RESERVATION NOW. Many places fill up. You have about two weeks to go. Do not wait.

Got a suggestion for Jamie and her family? Please share! And, as usual, a sentence or two about why you're suggesting a place can be helpful.

photo: Lauren Hittinger Hodgson

Good spots for camping with kids?

Sean emails:

I was wondering if any of your readers could recommend some good camping spots for parents with young kids (6 months + 3 years, currently). We're pretty flexible on most of the details (amenities, driving distance, etc), but would prefer to be near water.

We had an Ask AOA question a bunch of years ago about camping spots -- but that was question specifically mentioned not camping with kids. And, of course, things change.

So, got suggestion for Sean and his family? Please share! And as always, a sentence or two about why you're suggesting a place can be a big help.

Earlier on AOA:
+ You won't regret bringing toilet paper
+ Summer School: Camping with kids

photo: Casey Normile

A service, membership, something to give to new parents to make life easier?

A Friend writes:

Friends of ours recently had a baby and we'd like to get them something that would make life a little easier for them. Whether that's a local meal delivery service, or some sort of membership, or something. We're hoping people at AOA have some ideas!

The meal delivery question came up last year, and if you have more to say about that topic, we'd love to hear it.

We're also curious if there's maybe something unexpected that non-parents wouldn't necessarily think of -- sometimes you don't know until you're there. ("There" being parenthood.)

So, got a suggestion? Please share!

A place to recycle old textiles?

Erin emails:

I know plenty of places where I can donate clothes that are still wearable, but what can I do with the ripped, stained, ratty stuff? I know its possible to recycle textiles, but I don't know where or by whom. Any ideas? Please and thank you!

This is one of those questions that never occurred to us before, but we have heard of stuff being made from, say, old jeans. So we're curious to see if there's a place that does this.

Got a suggestion for Erin? Please share!

A good yard care service?

Sarah emails:

My husband and I are planning to be out of town for an extended period this summer, and we are looking for a company to take care of yard maintenance at our home in the Niskayuna/Schenectady area while we're gone. We'll need mowing, weeding, and watering. Can the AOA readers give us any recommendations?

This question comes up now and then, and the handful of answers usually ranges from small companies that are just one or two people to some of the larger services that employ crews of people.

So, if you have a suggestion of a specific service for Sarah, great. Please share!

We're also curious to hear if people have any thoughts or suggestions on what sorts of questions to ask or points to consider when hiring a yard service -- what the fee includes, how often/when the grass will get cut, that sort of stuff. As always, a sentence or two about why you're recommending a service can make a suggestion even more helpful.

(Also, an aside: After reading about organic lawn care last year, we raised the mower and started cutting the grass longer. The grass seemed to both stay greener and be better at crowding out the non-grass. Totally sticking with that method this year.)

Where to find vintage architectural pieces?

Stacey sent along this pic to go with her question.

Stacey emails:

We are getting our dining room painted (finally saying goodbye to terrible green) and would love to find a large vintage mirror to go over the mantle. The ceilings are about 14 feet high so the mirror should ideally be six feet or more. I've seen some reproductions online that have potential but I would prefer a mirror with a past. I keep looking on craigslist but with no luck. I would be out scouting salvage yard, antique shops etc. but for the fact that we work and have two little kids. I am hoping someone has a great mirror who needs a new owner? Or at least knows where to look? We only have about $500 to spend.

There are a handful of places (or more) around the region that collect and sell these sorts of vintage or reclaimed furniture/decor/architectural pieces. The first two that spring to mind are Silver Fox Salvage and the Historic Albany Parts Warehouse, both in Albany.

We're guessing you have more suggestions -- if not for a specific place to look, then maybe some advice about how to go about finding a piece like this, or even a DIY solution.

So, got something in mind? Please share! As always, a sentence or two about why you're recommending a place can be a big help.

Suggestions and advice on local CSAs?

Carrie emails:

Wondering if you guys could do another post on CSA's this year...? I know you did one in 2009, I remember every time I search for updates and that comes up. And the Times Union did something in 2013. But this seems like a growing thing, and (I hope) there have been some new ones and some changes to old ones?

CSA stands for "community supported agriculture" (people also refer to them as farm shares). The way they basically work: People the farm upfront at the start of the growing season and then they get a batch of farm produce at some interval (usually weekly) throughout the season.

This is currently prime time for CSA signs-ups, and many of them fill up.

As those links above indicate, there are a bunch of CSA options in the Capital Region. So... have one you'd recommend? Any advice on picking one that's a good fit for a household? Tips on working through all that produce each week? Thoughts on sharing a share with another household?

If you have suggestions for any of those questions, please share! And as always, a sentence or two about why're suggesting something can be a big help.

Recommendations for dog boarding with some room to roam?

C emails:

I was hoping to get some recommendations from AOA readers on a reasonably priced kennel for our sweet 9 year old golden. He's a big boy, at about 100 lbs, but super mellow and easy going. ...

We'd like to find a place that's not going to cage him all day. Some place where he can socialize with other dogs and have a little vacation, just like us!

A similar question came two years ago, but things change. And C mentions that one of the places they're interested in -- Camp Bow Wow ("makes me laugh just to type it!") -- appears to have opened since then.

The part of C's question that caught our eye was the bit about finding a place that will allow dogs to get out and socialize and maybe roam around during the day.

So, got a suggestion? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're recommending a certain place can be a big help.

Suggestions for a holistic medicine practitioner?

Anonymous emails:

I'm wondering if the amazing AOA readers could recommend a holistic medicine doctor in the area. I've been working with a number of "real doctors" and haven't found them terribly helpful so I think it's time to look for some outside solutions.

Specifically I'm looking for assistance with autoimmune/thyroid issues (Hashimoto's) and some sudden food intolerances... if anyone has been treated holistically for similar issues that would be very much appreciated!

Here's a quick primer on holistic medicine.

We'd widen Anon's question just a little bit to include doctors who might not necessarily identify as "holistic" per se, but do maybe take extra time to learn about different aspects of a person's life and possibly include a wider range of treatment options.

So, got a suggestion for Anonymous? Please share. And as always, a line or two about why you're recommending that doctor -- good listener, smooth-running practice office, whatever -- is always helpful.

photo: Flickr user a.drian (CC BY-ND 2.0)

A good place to get skates sharpened?

Jean emails:

Can anyone tell me where I can get speed ice skates sharpened? They're not done the same way as hockey or figure skates, and I haven't found anyone who'll sharpen mine. Thanks for any help, suggestions.

We've had a skate sharpening question a bunch of years ago, and we're guessing some of those places still offer the service. But we're wondering if there's like the place to get skates sharpened (or maybe there are a few of these places) -- and if that place might be able to help Jean.

Got a suggestion? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're recommending a place is always appreciated.

Earlier on AOA: Capital Region Ice Skating

Recommendations for cleaning services?

J emails:

Several of my friends are looking for a referral for a house cleaner or house cleaning service that is fantastic in all senses of that word -- quality of clean, attention to detail, availability, price, and trustworthiness

I am asking you, and your dear readers, to assist in finding a "crackerjack cadre of cleaners" for the area, that I would be proud to recommend. Please help.

This question comes up every few years, and things change, so we figured the time might be right for a new set of suggestions.

We're also curious if people have thoughts or advice on what sorts of questions or details to ask about when hiring a cleaning service.

Go a suggestion for J? Please share. And as always, a sentence or two about why're recommending or suggesting a service can be a big help.

A good psychiatrist?

Anonymous emails:

Over the last few months I've been having some major issues with anxiety and panic attacks. I've talked to my doctor about it and he suggested that I talk to a psychiatrist about things, and I think it's a good idea. The problem is, I don't know of any good ones in the area and the ratings I found on Google aren't helpful.

Would you mind asking the AOA community for some recommendations for a good psychiatrist in the Albany area? Preferably for someone who doesn't push pills unless it's a last resort.

I'm closer to the Schenectady area but don't mind driving for someone who is really good.

We have heard anecdotally that getting in to see a mental health professional -- whether they're a psychiatrist or psychologist or therapist of some sort -- can sometimes be difficult in this area because the demand for services exceeds the supply of providers. So if anyone has strategies or experiences about sorting through options, it'd be great to hear about those, too.

Got a suggestion for Anonymous? Please share. And as always, a sentence or two about why you're suggesting that provider can be a big a help.

photo: Flickr user a.drian (CC BY-ND 2.0)

Events for getting dressed up and going dancing?

M. emails:

I just really want an occasion to put on a glitzy dress and dance the night away. Are there any balls in the Capital region open to the community?

There are definitely events like this from time to time, many of them connected to charitable causes. For example, SPAC's annual winter ball is coming up in February. But we're wondering if there tends to be a season for these sorts of events.

So, got a suggestion for M.? Or maybe a make-your-own-fun and dress up idea? Please share.

photo: Flickr user dichohecho (CC BY 2.0)

Favorite coffee shops for working?

G emails:

I've got my favorites, but I'm wondering if you could poll the readers as to where is their favorite spot for coffee and reading, drawing, daydreaming and/or relaxing. Always nice to find new spots to sip and sketch. It's even nicer when the spots are locally owned, although I do find myself at various Starbucks quite a bit (they're consistent, lots of big tables for workspace and I have a ton of gift cards after the holidays.)

As you've probably seen us mention before, we don't have an office for AOA, so we end up working in these sorts of places a lot. And it's kind of funny how particular you can become about what's the "good" place -- is it quiet, are the tables big enough, how's the music, are the drinks and food any good.

So, got a favorite spot to suggest to G? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're recommending that place is always appreciated.

Where to take foreign language classes for adults?

Deirdre emails:

Wondering if you can help me find some local resources for adult language classes. I took German throughout high school and college and was pretty good at one point, but have lost quite a bit of knowledge over the last 10 years. I'm interested in anything ranging from formal classes to conversation groups that might help me pick up where I left off. I'd also be interested in language exchange classes, ie I could help someone with their English if they could help me with my German.

We've looked at this topic in the past -- but that was vor langer Zeit. And things change.

So, got a suggestion for a good place for adults to take foreign language classes -- or just get conversational experience speaking another language? Please share!

Exercise classes with working parent-friendly schedules?

Jenna emails:

Is there a good drop-in place for exercise classes with evening and weekend hours near downtown Albany? Similarly, are there any baby and me type classes that do drop-ins and working-lady schedules?

Must get fit. Have no time. Or motivation.

A lot of people struggle to fit exercise in to their schedules. Add a kid to the mix, and it gets even harder.

So, have a place in/near Albany to suggest to Jenna? Or maybe some strategies for making the schedule work? Please share!

Suggestions for good daycare in Albany area?

Nate emails:

My wife and I are expecting in July and we're looking for a reputable child care place in the Albany area.

As Nate noted in his email, this question came up three years ago -- but things change. It'd be great to get some updated recommendations.

So, got a suggestion for Nate and his wife? Please share! And including a sentence or two about why you're recommending a certain place is much appreciated.

A venue for a bridal shower that says "Albany"

Maureen emails:

I'm helping to plan a bridal shower for this August for about 40 people, and we'd like to find a venue that has both indoor and outdoor space. Preferable some place that provides food, but willing to consider all options. And since most of the guests will be from out of town, it would be great to find a place that feels "Albany." (But anywhere in the Capital Region works!)

There are a lot of places that host events like this, but the desire to find a place that's unique to this area or representative somehow is a fun twist.

So, got suggestions for Maureen? Please share! And as always, a sentence or two about why you're recommending the place is much appreciated.

A local service for wiping a computer clean of malware and other gunk?

A Neighbor writes:

I help my elderly neighbors with their computer from time to time. But their Windows machine is now so slow, probably because of malware and accumulated stuff, that it's almost impossible to use. They probably need to have computer wiped clean and have Windows reinstalled.

Can anyone suggest a local service that can do this? They don't need anything fancy -- there isn't really any data they need to save off the machine. It just needs to a clean re-install. And about how much might they expect to pay for this?

This seems like a pretty straightforward question. And we're guessing a lot of people have encountered similar situations with computers.

So, got a local service to suggest? Or maybe some other course of action? Please share. And a few sentences or about why you're suggesting a specific company are always appreciated.

Where to get a good fruitcake?

Bryon asks via the Facebook:

Any suggestions on where to find a good local fruitcake?

Yep, we hear the joke already: A good fruitcake is no fruitcake. But apparently good version of the Christmas staple are actually pretty good.

We'll also expand Bryon's question a bit to include other traditional Christmas cake-ish things, like stollen.

So, got a suggestion for a good local place to snag a fruitcake? Please share! And a sentence or two about why you're recommending the place/product is always appreciated.

Earlier on AOA: Bakeries that sell yule logs/Bûche de Noël for Christmas?

photo: Flickr user storebukkebruse (CC BY 2.0)

Restaurants with in-kitchen dining tables?

David emails:

Do you guys know of any restaurants in the area that have dining tables set up in the kitchen, to see the kitchen in action? Like a chefs table type of setup?

The first place that popped into our mind was the bar along the open kitchen at Peck's Arcade in Troy. But we're guessing there are at least a few other spots around the Capital Region.

Got a suggestion for David? Please share!

Where to karaoke?

Sing out Louise.

Judie reached out to us this week with a question about where to go for karaoke.

New-ish to the area and looking for fun bars that do karaoke - a request for a friend's upcoming birthday. I couldn't find anything on your site, but know your readers would know the scoop. We promise no Free Bird or American Pie.

OK, since Judie promised no "Free Bird," maybe we can help her out. We'll start it off. Circus Cafe in Saratoga has karaoke on Saturday nights.

Where else can Judie and company sing out?

photo: Flickr user Ilmicrofono Oggiono (CC BY 2.0)

Where'd you get your Christmas tree? How much did it cost?

We got a question from Hollie this week via the Facebook about where to get a real/live Christmas tree and how much one typically costs. (Hollie was specifically interested in the Troy/Rensselaer area.)

This seemed like a good opportunity for a quick, informal tree survey. So...

If you've bought a real/live Christmas tree this year, where'd you get it -- and how much did it cost?

Please drop your answer in the comments. If we get enough answers, maybe we can get some sort of picture of Christmas tree prices.

What sort of winter hat should I get?

This is the hat.

This question is from Greg. But we'll blockquote (because tradition):

I need a to get a new winter hat. My old hat -- which has served faithfully through many winters -- is finally wearing out. Also: It's, umm, really not good looking. (It's started to elicit the "You're really going to keep wearing that?" look from my wife.)

Ideally, I like to find something that will cover my ears. And something that won't get soaked in wet snow is another plus. I'm willing to trade dorkiness for warmth. But getting something that a least nods slightly toward having any sense of style wouldn't hurt.

So, ideas on what sort of hat I should get and/or where to get it?

Got a suggestion for Greg -- event a type of hat, if not a specific hat? Please share!

Earlier:
+ What sort of winter coat(s) should I buy? And where?
+ Competitive layering

Where to get car upholstery fixed?

Mike emails:

I just acquired an older car with rips in the driver's seat. Is there anywhere local that can redo the seats and save me the expense and trouble of finding/buying good used ones?

Considering how many cars there are, we figure there's usually a place/way for fix almost everything on them. (Whether it's cost effective is another question...) So we're curious to hear people's thoughts on the best way to go about this.

Got a suggestion for Mike? Please share! And if you're recommending a specific repair place, bonus points for a sentence or two about why you're mentioning that place.

Ask AOA: Why are so many people so intent on knocking down the Capital Region?

Are we just under a cloud here?

We got an email this week that you might consider a philosophical Ask AOA question. It's a little bit longer -- the whole thing is after the jump -- but here's the key part from Anonymous (who asked us to not use her/his real name):

As an on-again-off-again resident of the Capital Region (and Upstate NY in general) - now permanently here - I can't help but feel that this is one of the most negative places in the country. Every single day I hear people complaining about anything and everything... the weather is terrible (too hot! too cold! oh my God - it's raining! it might snow this winter! oh the humanity!!!), the taxes are too high, the government is corrupt, blah blah blah blah. It's coworkers. It's on the radio. It's on local TV. It's on blogs. It's everywhere. Yes - there are those that actually think for half a second about all the great things in this area, but it's oh-so-much easier to just moan about how everything is terrible. ...

My question: why are so many people so intent on knocking down the Capital Region, Upstate and NY in general instead of trying to build it up and improve it? Is it the unique political landscape (NYC vs. Upstate)? Is it from generation after generation passing along the legend of the terribleness of NY? Is it because Upstaters don't get out enough to see what other places are like - and how life is good here? Is it really just taxes? Or, are people here just predisposed to being pessimistic?

As Anon explains in the full question, she/he acknowledges there are problems here, but also that there are a lot of good things, too.

We've thought about this a bit, as well. It's not really fair to generalize that "people" are one way or another some place. But for whatever reason, it does feel at times that sentiment here tends toward the pessimistic more often than not.

So, any thoughts for Anonymous? Ideas for how things could be different? Please share.

(there's more)

A good place for kids' haircuts

Becky emails:

Can anyone recommend a good, reasonably priced place for a little boy to get his haircut? I don't want a buzzcut (I get why this is the default for lots of kids - it's easy, but I don't like the look), I want a real, preferably scissor-done cut for my three year old. I've not been impressed by what I've seen of Snip-Its - the cuts or the price. I've been doing his cuts myself since he first needed them, but I'd like him to get a good haircut for once, as mine aren't great. Any suggestions?

(Snip-Its is a chain that specializes in kids haircuts. We admit we had to look that up.)

So, got a suggestion for Becky and her son? Please share! And bonus points for a sentence or two about why're recommending that person or shop.

photo: Flickr user Quinn Dombrowski, cropped (CC BY-SA 2.0)

An electrician for a small home renovation project?

C asks:

We're doing some light renovation of a space in our house, taking out an old drop ceiling, and we're looking for an electrician to help with a few things. The biggest thing I think is moving some of lights that had been in the ceiling. Some of the wires will also probably have to be moved.

Does anyone have recommendations for an electrician for a small project like this?

We've had a similar question in the past, but it was years ago and things change.

So, know of a good electrician for C's project? Please share. And bonus points for a sentence or two about why you're recommending that person or company.

Where to get a sewing machine repaired?

Eric asks via the Facebook:

Can anyone point me to a good sewing machine repair shop? I don't mean new machines (most of which can't be fixed when they break) I mean old machines that are worth the effort.

It seems like every year it gets harder to find a place to repair small appliances like this, in part because the cost to replace and the cost to repair are often about the same now. Lake Electronics used to be the place for this sort of stuff, but it's no longer in operation.

Maybe there's a place for that specializes in sewing machines. Got a suggestion for Eric? Please share!

photo: Flickr user Deb Stgo (CC BY 2.0)

Good contractor for roof repair?

Anonymous says:

It looks like there's a leak in our home's roof, probably around where the vent for the plumbing sticks out of the roof. I have a feeling it's not a big or complicated repair, but I'm also not so confident about climbing out on the roof myself to fix it. So I was hoping people might have suggestions for good contractors for roof repair.

We looked through past questions and we've had one about slate roofers, and one about fixing the flat rubber roof on a historic home. But -- somewhat to our surprise -- it doesn't look like we've ever had a question about finding a roofing contractor for a "regular" shingle roof.

So, got a suggestion for Anonymous? Please share! And, as always, bonus points for sentence or two about why you're suggesting that company.

Suggestions for mixing up workday lunch in Albany?

Janae asks via Twitter:

I want to break some habits and find a new Albany workday lunch spot. (quick, not sit-down) Any recommendations?

The "quick" part of Janae's question complicates things a little bit. But a lot of places offer order-ahead for lunch, so you can just stop in, pick up, and go.

We're guessing you have a few suggestions. But we'll start with one of our own: Crave recently opened at Western and Quail -- we've been twice already, and we're looking forward to going again. Some of the more unusual burgers are fun -- both the turkey reuben and kung pao shrimp burgers we've tried have been packed with interesting flavors.

OK, your turn. Got a suggestion for Janae? Please share!

Where to get freshly-made tortillas?

Christine emails:

I'm wondering if we can pose a question to AOA readers, is there anywhere in the Capital Region that sells freshly made tortillas?

A variant of this question came up years ago, with only a few suggestions beyond "make 'em yourself." And, of course, things change.

A lot of big cities around the United States now have a factory (or multiple factories) that produce tortillas and distribute them locally. As far we know, the Capital Region does not currently have a such place. But we can hope -- because good tortillas are a great thing.

So, got a suggestion for Christine? Please share!

photo: Flickr user cbertel (CC BY 2.0)

Suggestions for fall weekend overnight trips in Hudson Valley and Finger Lakes?

Amelia emails:

I was wondering if AOA could help/recommend some great fall B&Bs, Inns, boutique spas that I can take my significant other for a long weekend this fall without the kids. I'm thinking closer to the hudson valley near the CIA or finger lakes as we've never been? Any recommendations?

Earlier this year Lauren wrote a bit about wine touring in both the Finger Lakes and Hudson Valley, and some of the suggestions might be helpful. We're especially curious about people's suggestions for the Finger Lakes and out west generally -- it feels like that region doesn't get a lot of attention here, but it's really not that far.

So, got a suggestion for Amelia? Please share! And bonus points for a sentence or two about why you're suggesting that place.

Good brunch spots in/near Schenectady?

Lindsay emails:

I just moved to Schenectady, and I'm wondering if anyone has good recommendations for brunch spots (especially those with bars) for Saturday/Sunday mornings.

I've tried Union Cafe, which has fantastic service, darn good pancakes, and tasty Greek eats. Eating on the patio in the sun is nice (although the view leaves something to be desired), and there is no alcohol served (i.e., cravings for a bloody mary or mimosa go un-quenched).

Any tips from the AOA community would be greatly appreciated.

Lindsay mentions that she's been following Lauren's brunch mini-tour. But that hasn't made it to Schenectady, yet. So if you have suggestions for Lindsay, they can also double has possible spots for Lauren to check out.

So, got a good place in mind? Please share. And, as always, a sentence or two about why you're suggesting that place is like an extra kick of horseradish in the Bloody Mary.

Where to rent a boat on Lake George?

Sean emails:

I've got some friends coming into town and we thought it would be a blast to head up to Lake George and rent a boat for the day. There seems to be a ton of places out there that rent so I was wondering if any of your readers have done this before and could perhaps recommend something to us. We'll have 7 adults and are not tied to any particular location on the lake.

If you have a place to suggest -- or even thoughts on what to look for -- we'll be awarding non-redeemable bonus points for suggestions that include a sentence or two about why that's a good place.

Got advice for Sean? Please share!

Earlier on AOA: Where to go paddleboarding?

Suggestions for a meal delivery service?

Dana emails:

We're expecting a baby soon and were looking for a meal delivery service in the Capital District. Not necessarily to lose weight, but something that's somewhat healthy, delivered cold, but that can be warmed up for meals, so we don't have to worry about meals every night once the baby's here. I've only seen services in other larger metropolitan areas, but not in ours. Any ideas/suggestions?

We are, of course, interested in hearing about local suggestions. But we've also noticed recently there are some web-based companies that offer shipments of meals or pre-prepped meal ingredients. So maybe that's a related option. (We really have no idea -- we have not seen those services in action.) Or maybe you can think of a different angle -- like, say, small-scale catering -- that could work.

So, got a suggestion for Dana and family? Please share!

Back in town for the first time in almost two years, what are "can't miss" new things?

The Artist Formerly Known as AOA Jess emails:

Hello 518!

It's been a shocking 20 months since I was last home in Albany.

That feels like a lifetime. Fortunately, I'm going to be back in town Saturday and I can't wait.

I've only got a week and I have lots of friends and family to see, but I'm seeking suggestions nonetheless. Obviously there are my perennial favorites (Troy Farmer's Market, Wine Bar on Lark, spicy green beans at New World Bistro, etc.) but I'd love recommendations.

What new places have opened up since I was home last that are "can't miss" spots? Albany-Troy area preferred as I probably won't have time to get to Saratoga on this time.

Thanks in advance!

Re-visiting a place a once a year, once every few years, can be interesting perspective -- it's still familiar, but the things that have changed are more noticeable.

So, got suggestions for new stuff that Jess should be sure to check out? Please share!

A good doctor for a wrist injury?

Sean emails:

I've been having some pretty serious pain in my left wrist anytime I put weight on it (think push-up position). A lot of arm-chair internet sleuthing has me concerned enough that I want to have it properly examined. I'm not terribly confident that my primary care doctor will necessarily get to the bottom of it based on a prior encounter with an unidentified running injury. With that in mind, I was hoping someone out there might be able to recommend a doctor or facility that they've had very positive experience with in the past.

We suspect the sort of doctor Sean is headed for is an orthopedist. So... have a good doctor to suggest to Sean? Please share! And bonus points for a sentence or two about why you're recommending that doctor.

Advice for new dog owners?

Otto, like most dogs probably, enjoys taking walks in new places. Here he is at Vroman's Nose.

Greg emails:

We have just finished the process of adoption our first dog - who we pick up this weekend. Its been quite a while since either of us have had one and we are wondering about some things;

Good places to walk the dog (on a leash) - rural, urban, paved, out there, doesn't matter. Weve seen people with their dogs at LIsha Kill and Peebles Island and plan on taking her there with us

Good veterinarians?

Good trainers/schools?

Good pet stores?

Good dog parks?

Any 'lesser known' etiquette or general things we should be aware of - or things people find annoying about dog owners? Were hoping for something a little more than 'pick up after your dog'

Social things - like yappy hours

Or anything else, really?

Any thoughts or suggestions are appreciated

That's a lot! But there's a lot that goes into being a good dog owner. If you have thoughts on any of this stuff for Greg, please share.

As you know, AOA's goodwill ambassador is AOA Greg's household dog/neighborhood celebrity Otto. Here are a few responses based on our experience with Otto...

(there's more)

A good lawn care service?

C. emails:

I am looking for a reliable lawn care service/individual in the area around Colonie Center. Basic mowing and fall cleanup. Can anyone suggest someone? Thank you for your help.

It sounds like C. isn't looking for stuff like fertilizing or weed control -- just mowing, basically. It seems like there are a bunch of services out there that do this -- both companies and single-person operations.

So, got a suggestion for C.? Please share! And we very much appreciate it when you include a sentence or two about why you're suggesting that company or person.

Good mechanic / specialist for car exhaust system repair?

Martin emails:

I have a 2007 SUV with ~80,000 mi and some of the exhaust system is starting to crack open. This includes a crack in the pipe that connects the main engine exhaust to the catalytic convertor. It's a time bomb that I need to deal with soon, preferably yesterday. I had it in for other service at the dealer and they estimated a repair at $1000. Now here's the tricky thing: they said the catalytic was fine, but that they couldn't save it there. The service manager off-the-record mentioned that a good 3rd party exhaust place might be able to save the catalytic and re-use it, which would cut the cost of the work in half.

So... where can I find such an exhaust system expert???

The winters here -- and the all the muck and salt -- are hard on car exhaust systems. And we can say from firsthand experience (alas), the fix is often expensive.

So, have a shop where Martin might be able get this fixed right -- and at a fair price? Please share! And bonus points for a sentence or two about why you're recommending that shop.

Earlier on AOA: Capital Region Recommended Mechanics (this hasn't been updated in a long time)

Contractor for a tub replacement?

M emails:

I'm looking for a contractor and/or plumber who can remove a bathtub and replace it with a walk-in shower, grab bars and other safety features for a senior citizen.

Sometimes the first step is just figuring out what sort of contractor you're looking for. So, in this case, we're curious if this a job that can be handled solely by a plumber, or if it's a job that would require someone more along the lines of a general construction/remodeling contractor.

Got a suggestion for M? Please share! And bonus points for a sentence or two about why you're recommending that person or company.

Where to buy sparklers?

AR emails:

Sparklers and ground fireworks were legalized between June 1st and July 4th (and the week between Christmas and New Year's) in a bunch of counties in NY ... the only place I've found them for sale is out in Herkimer county, but they're legal in some local counties as well (Saratoga county, for example) ... web searches come up with nothing.

Any leads on where they're being sold locally?

As AR mentions, sparklers are now legal in New York State during those times of the year -- if the local county passes a law allowing them. Saratoga, Rensselaer, Schenectady, and many other counties have done so. An effort to get sparklers approved in Albany County in time for July 4 recently fell short.

We've yet to see sparklers for sale in the Capital Region -- even advertisements for them. But we're guessing there are multiple places that will be selling them.

So, got a suggestion for AR? Please share!

photo: Flickr user Derek Key (CC BY 2.0)

Suggestions for a casual engagement party?

Lisa emails:

I wanted to ask if you could suggest any places for an engagement party? My parents have expressed interest in throwing one, but they are out of town and are asking for suggestions. Our guest list will be around 70 ppl, and I don't want them to spend a lot of money. Joe and I are [more] casual than formal, so maybe something like a BBQ at a park. Though the few places I've called charge a significant fee just for reserving a pavilion. Have you heard of any unique engagement parties, or know of any hidden gems in the area that we could contact?

Because Lisa and her fiance are looking for something casual, that probably widens the range of places. And there a bunch of parks around the region. So there have gotta be some good places.

Got a suggestion for Lisa? Please share! And bonus points for a sentence or two about why you're suggesting that place.

Contractor for building a patio?

From Anonymous:

We're hoping to build a paver patio in our backyard, nothing too complicated or big, though it'll probably require leveling and raising a part of the yard a foot or two. So maybe it will also involve a short wall or something.

We've had some bad luck so far getting contractors to call us back or show up for appointments for an estimate. I realize this is a busy time right now, but still. If you're not going to be able make an appointment, just call to say so.

So, we were hoping people at AOA might have suggestions for good contractors for this sort of work.

As always with these sorts of questions, if you have a company or contractor to suggest, we'll be awarding non-redeemable bonus points for a sentence or two explaining why you're recommending that company.

Got a suggestion for Anonymous? Please share!

Summer suggestions for a young adult visiting from out of town?

-S emails:

My (French) sister is 18 and she is flying to visit me for a month in August. I'm very excited to have her.

Her English is pretty good for a French kid her age. I would love to involve her in local activities -- she wants to get to know the American culture badly. (And she really wants to speak as much English as possible.) I don't know what an 18 year old does in the summer around here, though.

So far I've filled a volunteering form at the Albany Public Library, they might keep her busy for a few hours a week. I feel the service industry would be a bit too brutal for her first trip here. She loves volleyball, I'm sure she could play in the park this summer, but a youth league would be even better, if such a thing exists.

Maybe this is something people reading AOA would know about (or be interested to share)?

As a young adult, -S's sister will no doubt be able to find her own way to a large extent. But -S is trying to get her visit here off to a good start.

So, got a suggestion for -S's sister this summer? Please share!

Swim lessons for young children?

Sean emails:

My wife and I would love to get our 2 year old started with swim lessons this summer. We were hoping your readers could help us wade through the pool of options out there and recommend their favorite spots. We live in Albany, but would happily travel elsewhere for a great experience.

We're guessing there are multiple places that offer these sorts of lessons. So we'll be awarding non-redeemable bonus points for suggestions that include a line or two about why you're recommending that place.

Got a suggestion for Sean and his family? Please share!

Earlier on AOA: Ask AOA: Swim lessons for adults?

photo: Flickr user Thomas R. Stegelmann (cc)

How to reliably arrange transportation for a small group of people?

Chris emails (emphasis added):

With all the talk these past few weeks about Uber/Lyft and the state of cab transportation in the region, I have a more practical question. We live in Albany, and we have tickets for the Capital Region Brewcycle Tour in Troy. It looks great and we can't wait to check it out! We want to enjoy it AND get home safely. A DD is always the responsible default option but we're comfortable leaving a car in Troy overnight. All told, there will be 6 of us needing to get back. There would be one pick-up sometime around 12-1230 [at night] in Troy and 1 or 2 stops for drop off in Albany.

If I know when and where I need a pick up a week in advance, exactly how many people I have to transport and where we need to go, what is the best option out there? Is there a private car service that readers have used and would recommend? What was the cost? Is the state of cabs in Troy any better than Albany? Is there a good one that could accommodate 6 people?

Basically we're looking for a service that would get us home:
1- safely- not too interested in some some dude with a van who has a lot of free time
2- reliably- don't want to be stuck waiting on a street corner for someone to show up eventually
3- economically- I know a limo would work, but it seems terribly excessive and expensive for what amounts to about 25 minutes and 10 miles of driving.

With the advantage of being able to make arrangements in advance I'm hopeful we can find something reasonable. I'd be willing to leave a deposit or pay in advance to secure something.

Any advice would be much appreciated. Thanks!

Got a suggestion for Chris and friends? Please share!

A good heating/cooling company?

Dan emails:

My wife and I recently purchased a home in Rensselaer County, and need to address the home's heating/cooling ductwork. The system needs to be inspected/sealed (I will do the insulating myself). Can anyone suggest a good-quality business for this type of work?

We had a sort-of-related question last year, but it looks like we haven't had general question about good home heating/cooling contractors in a while.

So, got a suggestion for Dan? Please share!

Good parks for kids?

Sean emails:

In our kid-free days my wife and I liked exploring different bars + restaurants across the region. Now that we have a kid, we like exploring parks! Our kid is just old enough where he can navigate playscapes at the park by himself. Aside from the small rotation of parks we like to hit near our house in Albany, we'd love to branch out and explore some really amazing parks in the region at large. Do you have any favorites or know of any especially fun ones that you can reach within an hour featuring something a 2+ year old can climb on? If so, we'd love to hear about them!

Some of the parks around the region that Lauren highlighted last summer/fall have some fun things for kids to climb around on.

Got a specific suggestion for Sean and his family? Please share!

Where to donate jewelry?

Rebecca emails:

Starting the spring purge and wondering if anyone could suggest a place to donate jewelry? It's not fancy jewelry (or anything gold or silver that could be sold) nor is it vintage costume jewelry..just trendy inexpensive stuff that looks nice. I'd hate to just toss it out if there's some place that would accept it.

We're guessing a lot of the places that clothing for re-sale, like the thrift shops, would be interested in jewelry donations.

Got a suggestion for Rebecca? Please share!

Where to get quality local compost?

Ginny asks via the Twitter:

Your favorite place for quality local finished compost? Building a few new beds. I need way more than I make.

As Ginny noted in a follow up, "Sadly not all compost is equal." It's not a bad idea to know where the compost is from, and what's (generally) gone into it.

So, got a suggestion for Ginny and other gardeners? Please share.

A good spot to get General Tso's Chicken?

Sean emails:

General Tso's Chicken is a huuuuuge guilty pleasure of mine. It was a staple of my college diet. Trouble is, since moving out here to Albany, I've had a heck of a time finding somewhere that can give me a decent version, let alone a GREAT version. I was wondering if any of your readers shared my guilty pleasure and could point me in the direction of their favorite spot. I live in Albany and work in Latham so anywhere near either place is fair game.

General Tso's chicken has an interesting history (or histories), as illustrated by this short profile of the dish by Fuschia Dunlop. Its roots can be traced back to the Hunan province of China, but like a lot of Chinese food in the United States it went through some interpretation and change before becoming popular here. In this specific case, the thread runs through Taiwan, New York City, Henry Kissinger (really), and back to China. (OK, culinary history tangent over.)

Aside from Ala Shanghai and Hong Kong Bakery & Bistro, we don't hear much about individual Chinese food restaurants around the Capital Region. That is undoubtedly our fault -- we're probably not listening in the right places. So, this question is a good opportunity to maybe learn a little bit more.

Got a suggestion for Sean about a good place for General Tso's chicken -- or good Chinese restaurants in general? Please share!

photo: Evan Joshua Swigart (TheCulinaryGeek) on Flickr (CC BY 2.0)

Ways to spend an early spring weekend with visitors from out of town?

Alisa emails:

Easter and Passover are fast approaching and I have a question a bit different from the typical holiday happenings.

Family with small children are coming into town and I would love ideas of things to do with them beyond the typical holiday meals, religious services and Easter egg hunts. What have you got for a dad and his three year old daughter from out of town?

Passover starts April 3 this year, and Easter is April 5. Let's hope things are noticeably more spring-y by then, because it'd be great to get outside and soak up sunshine and celebrate the changing of the season.

A short trip somewhere in the area? Maybe people have some ideas for a few kid-friendly early spring destinations.

Got a suggestion for Alisa? Please share!

A good mason?

Jessica R W emails:

Doing an interior gutting of our new property, my husband and I found that our wood-frame house is actually a wooden exterior with an interior lining of brick! Our demo guy said he had never seen a house like this. I am looking for a mason to replace any missing bricks and repoint as needed.

"I've never seen something like this" isn't always the best news from a contractor.

The photo on the right is one that Jessica sent along of one of the bedrooms during demo.

Got a suggestion for Jessica? Please share!

Help with restoring an old front door?

Maisie asks:

Yet another old house question! Any rec's for restoring an old wooden front door? We have a lovely craftsman style front door that I'm sure would cost an arm and a leg to replace, but it definitely needs a little tlc. Seems like a job that would require expertise, but not sure where to look...

As we've said before, there a bunch of old houses around here, so someone's surely to tackled this job before.

Got a suggestion for Maisie? Please share!

Earlier on AOA: Ask AOA: Help for fixing old windows?

Pooper scooper service recommendations?

Mike emails:

I was wondering if the readers might know of any good pooper scooper services in the Colonie area. The snow on the ground hasn't allowed for cleanup for at least the last month. The snow is now melting but I just broke my ankle and won't be able to get out to do it myself any time soon. Any suggestions are greatly appreciated. Thanks!

A while back a bunch of these services popped up around the area -- Jess wrote about one of the first, the Delmar Dog Butler. Since then we haven't heard about much about them.

So, got a suggestion for Mike? Please share. And bonus points for a sentence or two about why you're recommending that service.

Washing machine repair?

-S emails:

Was wondering if you had somebody to recommend for repairing a washer. Mine is trying to commit suicide ... (Alternatively, if you bought one recently, and would recommend a brand). Thank you.

As with any sort of question like this, we're awarding bonus points for a line or two about why you're recommending that person or company.

So, got a suggestion for -S and his washer? Please share!

Earlier on AOA: Ask AOA: Good place to shop for appliances?

Where to get a handbag repaired?

Donna emails:

I was gifted an expensive Coach bag; unfortunately, the clasp broke. I would like to get it repaired, but I have no clue how to go about finding a company that specializes in handbag repair. I wonder if anyone in the AOA community can help me out?

We get questions about repairing stuff like shoes or small household appliances and so often the answer ends up being: Yeah, unfortunately, people just don't repair stuff like that much anymore. But we're guessing there are still a few places that do this sort of work.

So, got a suggestion for Donna? Please share.

Good daycare near Schenectady?

Lindsay emails:

About 2 years ago, you had a post asking for suggestions for good day cares near Albany. Now, I'm pregnant, and both my husband and I work in Schenectady. If possible, I was hoping that you could ask the readers for any daycare recommendations in the Schenectady area.

That Albany question generated a lot of suggestions, and it was great to see people explain some of the reasons they were recommending the daycares mentioned.

So, got a suggestion for Lindsay and her husband for a daycare in the Schenectady area? Please share!

photo: D Sharon Pruitt (CC BY 2.0)

Where to rent a PA system for an event?

Nate emails:

I was wondering if you could help me out with some suggestions on where to rent speakers and a PA system for an upcoming wedding. I basically need a PA system that will hook up to an ipod to play music at a wedding reception. I was told that Drome Sound in Schenectady would be a good start, but I'd like some other options.

Any info would be greatly appreciated.

This is pretty straightforward, so if you have suggestion, please share. And if you can think of some sort of alternative that might help out Nate, we'd love to hear about that, too.

photo: Flickr derekGavey (CC BY 2.0)

Where to donate a wedding dress?

Jin emails:

After a dozen years, it's time for the wedding dress to go. Any reader suggestions on where I can donate my dress where it might go to do some good rather than a Halloween costume?

There seem to be donation programs for all sorts of items now, so we're guessing there's probably some org that takes wedding dresses.

So, got a suggestion for Jin -- whether a place for donations, or some other way to put the dress to good use? Please share!

photo: photo: Flickr user billaday (CC BY-ND 2.0)

Good tax preparers?

Liz emails:

Can you or your readers recommend a good person or place to get taxes prepared? Suggestions for independent CPAs or accountants outside of H&R Block and Liberty Tax are especially welcome!

Somewhat surprisingly, it looks like we haven't had this exact question before -- we had one about small business tax prep, and one about accountants. And those are both a few years old, and things change.

So, if you have a suggestion for Liz, please share! A please include a line or two about why you're recommending that person/firm.

photo: Edinburgh City of Print (Flickr user edinburghcityofprint) (CC BY 2.0)

Good spots for Puerto Rican food?

Cheryl emails:

We've recently had a discussion at work about how amazing Puerto Rican food is and how hard it is to find in the capital district. Could you ask your readers for suggestions? Personally, I've been looking for a place since I came home from a visit to the island back in 2003 with real tostones. For now we make our own, but I'd LOVE to find a place to go for dinner or even get good take out.

Obviously, if there's a restaurant primarily focused on Puerto Rican food, please mention it. But we're betting there are at least a handful of restaurants that offer some Puerto Rican dishes, like the mofongo at Casa Dominicana.

Got a suggestion for Cheryl? Please share!

Where to donate furniture?

Kara asks via email:

I'm getting a new couch in a few months and my old one while worn, could still be of use to someone. Are there any local charities that pick up donations of this sort?

There are definitely charities that take furniture donations. But we wonder if charities have different rules for stuff like, say, a table and chairs and upholstered things like couches.

Got a suggestion for Kara? Please share!

Good wine classes?

Lauren emails:

I'm looking for someone who is interested in teaching a small group (2-4) people about wine once a week for around a month. I have two small children and attending a wine class out in the world is difficult, so I'm hoping to find someone willing to come to my home and share their love and knowledge of wine. Perhaps a sommelier at a local restaurant or a wine shop employee would be willing to provide private classes, but any suggestions your readers can provide would be greatly appreciated.

The in-home part, especially for a small group, might be hard. But maybe someone has a suggestion about how to make that work -- or a class somewhere that's worth arranging for sitter. (Or maybe this is an opportunity for someone to launch Saturday afternoon parents wine club/play date.)

Got an idea for Lauren? Please share.

Advice for fixing old lath-and-plaster walls?

Matt emails:

Does anyone have suggestions for a contractor that can repair lathe and plaster walls? I have part of one wall that has sustained water damage from leaky chimney flashing and another wall where some of the final smooth coat has cracked apart. I've done some research and know that some contractors suggest tearing it out to the studs and replacing it with drywall (which would also give an opportunity to put in some insulation on the outer walls).

I like the plaster walls because they're thicker and more substantial than drywall, and provide good sound dampening between rooms. The idea of just ripping them out seems counterproductive (and quite frankly, a waste) to me. However, I realize repairing them is probably a lost skill and not many people do that anymore.

Any suggestions for contractors or input otherwise would be greatly appreciated.

This area has a lot of old houses, so we're guessing there are contractors who do this sort of work. But, as with most things that aren't common, it might end up costing a lot.

So, got advice or a suggestion for Matt? Please share!

A good local graphic designer?

Sean emails:

A business acquaintance of mine is looking to redesign some logos for their (2) apartment complexes and I was wondering if anyone from your community might be able to recommend someone they've used that has done good work and is local.

There are a lot of designers out there, and if you know of a local one who could be a good fit for this project, by all means please mention that person (bonus points for why you're recommending that person).

But because there are a lot of design options, it can be hard to sort through them. So, got some advice on what to look for in a good designer or design firm? We'd love to hear about that, too.

A good jeweler/jewelry artist?

Alison emails:

I received a lovely bracelet for Christmas, but it is a little too big. I'm looking for someone in the area who can not only shorted the bracelet, but make some nice earrings from the removed stones. Does anyone have a great jewelry artist they can recommend?

Got a suggestion for Alison? Please share! And bonus points for a sentence or two about why're recommending that place.

Earlier on AOA:
+ Ask AOA: A good jewelry repair shop?
+ Ask AOA: Where to get a ring re-sized?

How do you up your glove game?

This question comes from us, because... brrr...

When it's really cold, the answer for clothing is almost always: more layers. But what about your hands?

Even though they make you look like your four years old, we are staunch fans of mittens because they do a better job of keeping your fingers warm. But mittens aren't good if you're trying to do much with your hands: zip things, pick up dog poop, operate a mobile or camera.

In that past we've tried a very thin pair of gloves under mittens. That was warm, but also bulky and sort of clumsy.

So... Thoughts on leveling up in the glove game? Types of hand wear, materials, styles? Are those finger gloves with the mitten flap (or whatever it's called) worth a try? How do you keep your hands warm?

Earlier on AOA: What sort of winter coat(s) should I buy? And where?

Where to get a laptop computer tuned up?

Sandy emails:

I have a 2ish-year-old PC laptop that I'd like to get a midlife cleaning-out and checkup. I want someone who knows computers better than me to clean up the hard drive, security, and startup programs and remove bloatware. The computer also probably needs a physical cleanup to get dust and whatever out of the inside -- the fan seems to run constantly.

Does anyone have a good computer tech or store they'd recommend for this kind of service, for not too much money (I'm a student)?

We've encountered many computers like this -- still very much capable of being useful, they just need to be (literally and virtually) de-gunked.

So, got a suggestion for Sandy? Please share!

Help with a demolition project?

Jessica emails:

I'm looking for a local demolition crew to take down old walls and some ceilings down to the studs in a turn-of-the-century house. Some walls are lathe and plaster, some are covered in paneling or dry wall.

If you have someone/a company to suggestion, great. But if you don't, maybe you have some ideas about how Jessica could go about finding someone to help with this project. (As with so many things, there has to be a better way than Craigslist.)

So, got a suggestion? Please share!

Where to go dancing?

Melissa asked via Twitter:

Afraid to ask... But where can a 35 year old go dancing around here?

We had a similar question a few years back -- basically, where to go dancing if you're looking for a place that skews a bit beyond the college crowd -- and there were some good suggestions. But a bunch of the places mentioned now no longer exist, or don't exist in that form.

Soooo... got a suggestion for Melissa and others looking to shake it? Please share!

photo: Flickr user dichohecho (cc)

Restaurants with cozy spots for dining?

Clearly thinking ahead for the next few months, Rebecca emails:

The counterpoint to Summer Outdoor/patio dining: Wondering about any area restaurants that have fireplaces for some cozy indoor dinners on a cold night? Thanks.

There are definitely spots with fireplaces.

So, got a favorite place for cozy dining -- with fireplace or without? Please share!

Where to get latkes?

Xina emails with a seasonal question:

Where can I get some excellent latkes in the Capital region? I have had no luck making good ones on my own, but I would love to eat some. :)

We get the sense that latkes tend to fall into the category of "foods people usually make and eat at home" -- in part because it's a holiday thing for a lot of people. But there's gotta be a place in the Capital Region that Xina get score some good not-made-at-home latkes. Or maybe you can share some advice on how she can make good ones at home.

Got a suggestion? Please share!

photo: Flickr user Sarah and Jason (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Good neighborhood holiday light displays?

Paul emails:

Have you ever done a story on good neighborhoods in the Capital District to view holiday lights? I know there is the Washington Park Lights, but I think there are specific neighborhoods that go over the top. My 10 yr old son loves to see the lights and was going to do some cruising this weekend with him.

There was an Ask AOA question about this years ago with a few suggestions. But things change. Some people get realllly into Christmas. Others fall out of it. So it seemed like a good time to pick it up back.

Got a suggestion for good holiday light display -- specific house, neighborhood, or street? Please share!

Good sledding hills?

Christina emails:

Where are the best sledding hills? I know of the public golf courses in Albany and Troy, and there's another hill (privately owned by a family southwest of Albany?) but how about something further north in the Saratoga region?

I'm itching to grab a lunch tray and feel like a little kid again!

This topic came up a handful of years ago, and there were handful of answers that pretty much all focused on Troy and Albany. In part, we suspect -- because they have some good spots, like Capital Hills in Albany and Frear Park in Troy (as Christina mentions).

Got a suggestion? Please share!

A good gym in (or near) city of Albany?

Alison emails:

My gym is closing, Steuben Club, the only gym in a walkable neighborhood of Albany is shutting its doors this month. I'm looking for a good alternative, where I can easily get from my Center Square home, to my job at the capitol in the morning before work. Is this asking too much in Albany? What are the best gym choices for someone who lives and works downtown, and prefers to avoid strip malls?

There are plenty of gym options, so maybe there's something to fit what Alison's looking for.

Got a suggestion for her? Please share!

Where to go for singing lessons?

Joanna emails:

I'm looking to get my husband singing lessons for Christmas. I have no clue where to go though -- do you or your readers have any suggestions?

Got suggestion for Joanna (and her husband)? Please share!

photo: Flickr derekGavey (CC BY 2.0)

Advice for dealing with house's water line problem?

Shawn emails:

First Thanksgiving in the new house and the main water shutoff in the basement started to leak. It is a slow leak at the moment and a bucket has doing the job. Wondering if any readers have had experiences in Albany with having the water shutoff at the curb box to repair the main water shutoff? I called the City and was told that I would be responsible for any repairs of the curb box shutoff if there are any issues when the water is turned off.

Old house, snow on the ground, cold temperatures . . . the price tag I'm envisioning is increasing as I write this if we run into any problems. Any experiences, thoughts, or suggestions would be greatly appreciated...

This kind of stuff can be complicated (see an earlier question about a sewer problem), expensive, and stressful.

Got advice for Shawn? Please share.

A good company/person for drywall work?

Sean emails:

I live in Albany and have an upcoming renovation project and would love nothing more than to pay someone else to do the drywall work. In the past, my wife and I enjoyed learning + doing it the first time, grumbled our way through it the second time... and are now loathing the prospect of having to do it a third time. Would any of your readers happen to know a person or company they could recommend that might be able to spare us from this misery and gladly take our money??? Please please please!

Sometimes the lesson of a DIY project is that you shouldn't do it yourself. And there's nothing wrong with that.

So, got a suggestion or advice for Sean and his wife? Please share!

Where to donate a turkey?

T. emails:

I was told at ShopRite today that I've qualified for a free turkey. I don't want it myself, but I was wondering if I should pick it up and drop it off at a food pantry or shelter. Seems like there are probably other people in my position too - how about a roundup of places to donate them, how and when etc? My receipt says to get it from ShopRite between 11/16 and 11/27.

We were just thinking it'd be great if these supermarket chains would allow you to designate your free turkey or ham or whatever to be given to charity directly.

Got an idea for T.? Please share!

Converting photo slides to digital?

Janet emails:

Would you please ask your readers about professional processors who will scan Kodak slides and produce digital versions of the photos, either on DVDs or SD cards?

I'm not finding much with a search, beyond National Geographic's recommended processor DigMyPics, located in Arizona. I'd rather hand deliver my precious slides to someone local.

We're sure there are at least one or two local places that can do this.

So, got a suggestion or advice for Janet? Please share!

Where to get tires changed to snow tires?

TC emails with a timely question:

Since it is getting close to winter time, I want to go to a place to get my all season tires switched over to my snow tires. However, I have noticed that in this area and in general that it is very hard to find a good, reputable place that offers a reasonable price on tire changeovers. I recall that I could get these same tires switched over at a mechanic about 5 years ago for around 40 bucks easily. These days, I am often quoted at $90-100+ (especially at chain stores) for this same exact service completed on the same car.

I would love to hear where your readers go to get their tires changed over at a reasonable price and if they can suggest any good (especially mom and pop) establishments that do a good job at changing over tires and don't charge a fortune for it.

We're also curious to hear people's thoughts about snow tires in general -- we know some people swear by them, others seem less convinced.

Got suggestion for TC, and/or thoughts on snow tires? Please share!

Where to buy a goose?

Justin emails:

I'd really love to know where to get a decent whole goose for christmas dinner.

We're curious if you can just walk into a store and buy a goose -- or whether they require a pre-order.

Got a suggestion for Justin? Please share!

photo: Flickr user Tim Sackton (CC BY-SA 2.0)

A contractor for mold remediation?

Jessica emails:

We just bought a 2nd property to flip for apartments, and the basement ceiling beams are covered with multiple types of mold. We were initially going to do the clean up ourselves, but my allergies can't handle it (even when using a respirator). This is something I want to bring in a professional for. Can the AOA readers recommend any good mold remediation companies? We want someone reliable and affordable.

We wonder if there's any sort of certification or licensing for companies that do this. You know, can anyone call themselves a "mold remediator?" (Here's the state Department of Health's page on mold -- it has some basic background info.)

Got a suggestion or advice for Jessica? Please share!

A good tattoo artist?

Chris asks via Twitter:

Hey @alloveralbany I am looking to get a second tattoo & looking for suggestions from people with positive experiences in the area...

Definitely interested to see where people have gone & if there is someone they trust!

We had a similar question a bunch of years ago. And things change. So it seemed like a good idea to open it up again.

Got a suggestion for Chris? Please share! And bonus points for a sentence or two about why you like that place.

A young, active church congregation?

Liz emails:

I am looking to join a new church, and truthfully, one thing I'm really looking for is a congregation with a healthy number of members in their 20s and 30s who are active with the church and get together for fellowship activities (and fun). Can anyone recommend a church that skews a little younger or has an active group of younger congregants?

It's a bunch of years since we've had a church question, and it sounds like Liz has something specific in mind.

So, got a suggestion for Liz? Please share!

A good HVAC contractor?

Sean emails:

We just opened up a wall between our Kitchen and Dining room and the new view and copious amount of daylight is spectacular!!.. well, except for that ugly metal heating duct. So with that in mind, I was wondering if any of your readers could recommend someone who could help relocate that duct-work to somewhere much less visible. Thanks!

Having never done something like this, we're curious if you can just call a typical heating/cooling contractor for something like this, or whether it requires a company with a different set of skills.

Got advice for Sean? Please share!

Contractor for matching historical building style?

Omar emails:

I'm buying a victorian-style house in Troy soon and would like to have a garage built. I would like it to match the style of the neighborhood so I'm envisioning a cinder block garage, possibly with a brick facade. Can anyone recommend a good mason or whoever does this kind of work?

We had a similar questions earlier this year, but it was focused on indoor carpentry work. As we said then, there are so much old houses in this area, there have got to be companies that can building something to fit with the style.

Got a suggestion for Omar? Please share!

Where to sell old gold and silver?

CAOD emails:

Have you ever sold your old gold and silver? I have dozens of single earrings and broken chains that I need to get rid of. Where did you sell it and did you feel you got a fair price?

We see ads for this kind of thing all the time, but they often have a Crazy Louie's House of Ridiculous Deals feel about them. And a few years back News10 looked at the prices quoted at a traveling gold and silver road show -- there was quite a difference between when the camera was on and off.

So, got a suggestion for CAOD? Please share!

Help fixing wedding photos?

SB emails:

We tied the knot recently and received our professional pictures from our photographer. We had a limited wedding budget so we weren't able to hire a very expensive photographer. Unfortunately that is now my biggest regret as we are pretty disappointed in the quality of most of the pictures : ( It appears that a majority of them weren't touched up at all and some are even downright unflattering : (

I know that with a little editing they can be salvaged so that going forward we can have a handful amazing pictures of the most important day of our lives. I know there are programs out there like Adobe Lightbox/Photoshop that could do the trick.

Could someone please recommend a local capital region photo editor? I would even be open to contacting a photo editing student that knows how to use Lightbox and wants to make some money on the side. Note: I researched a site called Fotofix online but the prices were really high so I prefer to not go to that direction.

Any help is greatly appreciated!! Thank you!

We're betting someone can help SB's photos -- but it might be within a range. At some point a photo can only be fixed so much.

So, got a suggestion for SB? Please share!

Bachelorette party ideas in downtown Troy?

Christine asks via Twitter:

[B]est downtown troy activities for a bachelorette type event? @CapCtyBrewCycle is weather dependent!

[A]bout 14 ladies, low key, starting around 3 on a Saturday in late November. Possible dinner upstairs at @GetRuckedTroy

Got an idea for Christine and her friends? Please share!

Favorite fall hikes?

Sean emails:

I was wondering if your readers could weigh in with their favorite Fall Hikes. Some friends of mine are coming to town and I'd really like to "wow" them with a spectacular view. We're willing to drive up to the Adirondacks, down to the Catskills and anywhere in between!

We've touched on this topic a little bit before, but we're always up for hearing about good/fun places to hike this time of year.

Got a favorite to share with Sean and the rest of us? Please share! Bonus points for a line or two about why you like that spot.

Earlier on AOA: Quick trip: Vroman's Nose

Places for art classes?

Alison emails:

I'm looking for a pointed pen (modern) calligraphy class. There are a few in New York City I was looking at, but would love to stay closer to home, if possible. I have a pen, nibs, ink, etc. but would love to learn more from a professional. Just doodling in a notebook isn't getting me to where I want to be.

We're going to expand Alison's question to include other types of art classes, especially ones that might be a bit more specialized (like calligraphy). It's been more than five years since we last had an art class question, and things change, so it seemed like a good idea to open it up again.

Got a suggestion for art classes generally, and/or specifically for Alison's calligraphy class question? Please share!

A good endocrinologist?

Becky emails:

I'm hoping some readers can help me out here. I see a doctor at the Endocrine Group on Washington Ave in Albany (I would rather not say which one) for my hypothyroid condition and am really unhappy with his care. He's really brief with me and working with some outdated information. I hope this isn't a long-shot -- can anyone recommend a really good endocrinologist who is especially good at dealing with thyroid issues?

We get doctor questions fairly often, and it's notable how much personality/bedside manner/whatever you call it matters. It makes total sense -- the last thing you want when you're feeling sick or uncertain is to deal with someone who doesn't appear to be listening or just isn't friendly.

So, got a doctor to suggest to Becky? Please share! And if you do, please include a line or two about why you like that doctor or practice.

photo: Flickr user a.drian (CC BY-ND 2.0)

What to do with old chinaware?

Pack Rat emails:

I'm currently in the process of un-stuffing my house, and some of that stuff is old china that found its way to me from various family members. I can't imagine ever using it, but I'm not sure what exactly to do with it. I looked online and it appears that at least some of the stuff has some value. But really I'd just be happy for it to go someplace where it's used and appreciated.

Any suggestion on places in the Capital Region where it could be sold or donated?

There is probably so much stuff like this in so many attics and basements.

Got a suggestion for PR? Please share!

Where to rent a passenger van?

Eva emails:

I'm looking to rent a 7+ passenger van for 24 hours. Everything I'm looking at is too fancy - it just needs to be functional for short-distance transportation, not the newest Dodge SUV. Ideally I would like this to be a recurring rental (once or twice a month), so I'm hoping to find someone reliable. Any leads?

We're curious if there are options beyond the typical rental companies.

Got a suggestion for Eva? Please share!

Good thrift stores?

Amanda asks via Twitter:

It's getting cooler & all my warm shirts have holes. What are some good area thrift stores?

After seeing Amanda's question, we went digging through the archive for stuff about thrift stores and it's been surprisingly long since we've done something. It looks like we're overdue.

So, got a suggestion for Amanda (and us)? Please share! Bonus points for a line or two about why you like that store.

Suggestions for dealing with lead abatement?

Sandra emails:

We just bought a house, and discovered that there is very badly chipping lead paint on a couple of radiators in our house. Could some of your readers recommend a good lead abatement specialist to come and paint this for us? We had also considered sandblasting and powder coating them, but that is looking like a lot to organize: A plumber to uninstall and reinstall, someone to move very heavy objects, the sandblaster, plus it is getting cold and we don't want to be without heat for the next month. It just got overwhelming. We have a nine-month-old baby in the house so we want to make sure that it is done well. The house is almost all wallpaper and finished wood, so lead isn't a huge concern in the house otherwise. Thanks!

There are a lot of old houses in this area, so there are certainly people who have also encountered this issue.

Got a suggestion for Sandra? Please share!

Help with kitchen renovation design?

M. messages:

We are thinking about doing a kitchen renovation. Got the contractor, got a "look" picked out, but kind of clueless about the actual design process. Has anyone had a good experience with a designer, either through one of those kitchen renovation one stop shops, or an independent person?

We're always a little amazed by how talented designers can look at a situation and see solutions/angles/ideas non-designers might miss. And, sure, hiring one will probably be more expensive. But when you think about how much a kitchen gets used -- and how frustrating a design flaw can be over the years -- it can be worth the extra money.

So, got a suggestion for M.? Please share!

A good roofing company?

This one comes from AOA Mary. We'll blockquote. Because tradition.

We're looking for someone to replace our roof. It's a flat, rubber roof on an historic home. Anyone have suggestions for roofing companies?

There are a lot of roofing companies out there. But we're curious if there are companies that specialize in non-shingle roofing.

Have a suggestion for Mary? Please share!

A good plastic surgeon?

Anonymous emails:

I am beginning to do research into breast reduction surgery, and am wondering whether anyone in AOAland has had this or a similarly invasive plastic surgery and has any recommendations about which local surgeons to talk to and which to stay away from.

Have a suggestion? Please share. And please include a sentence or two about why you're recommending that doctor or practice.

photo: Flickr user a.drian (CC BY-ND 2.0)

What to do with used books?

Kaitlin asks via Twitter:

Any ideas on what to do with books I no longer need? I've got piles, of various genres/kinds, with no home!

I could just thrift store them but those always seem inundated w/books.

We're guessing there are a lot of people like Kaitlin, looking for new homes for old books.

So, got a suggestion? Please share!

Recommendations for hardwood floor refinishing?

Courtney emails:

We've recently purchased a Victorian home approaching it's 150th birthday! We'd like to have the original hardwood floors refinished and restored to the beauty underneath years of use - can readers recommend someone for the job that is knowledgeable about homes built in the 1800s or specializes in restoration?

We're curious if there's a difference between refinishing 150-year-old hardwood floors and, say, 50-year-old hardwood floors (or younger). You know, are there a lot of quirks of very old floors that make them different to work on?

Got a suggestion for Courtney? Please share! And non-redeemable bonus points for a quick line or two about why you're suggesting that company or person.

Where to get stickers made?

This question comes from... us. But we'll block quote it for the sake of tradition:

Where's a good place to get stickers made? And is there a place that might be able to turn around an order in a few days?

We ask because of a fun, little thing we're trying to get together for the end of the week. It's sort of a last-minute thing. Details soon.

Got a suggestion for us? Please share! Thanks!

(there's more)

Moving help for hire?

Jason emails:

I see that you have a few old Ask AOA posts on moving companies (from 2011 and 2010) which may be helpful to me, but was wondering if you'd consider opening that topic up again?

[W]e have some friends who will be moving to Niskayuna from Brooklyn. They're packing up their stuff there and will be driving it up in a truck they've rented. What they're looking for is to hire a few movers to unload the truck for a few hours on a Sunday morning. Based on what they have to unload, and the help of a few friends already lined up, they're figuring to hire two movers for two hours.

So I'd be interested to hear referrals to reliable companies that would do something like this, or maybe trustworthy freelancers. I also would be curious to know roughly what one could/should expect to pay for such a service?

Like most things, experience can make a big difference. We're always kind of amazed to see how experienced movers can maneuver some huge, heavy piece of furniture or appliance with relative ease.

So, got a suggestion for Jason and his friends? Please share!

Where to get good peaches?

Julie emails:

Hey AOA, is there anywhere to go pick your own peaches around the capital region?

For whatever reason, PYO peaches appear to be a rarity around here. Maybe because the fruit is relatively fragile and growers want to make sure their trees are picked with care. Maybe just because peaches aren't as plentiful around here as, say, apples.

That said, there are some places to score good peaches. We have had some really nice peaches from Golden Harvest in Valatie this year. And in the past we've gotten different types of good peaches from Maynard Farms, which sells at the Schenectady Greenmarket.

Know of PYO place for Julie? Or even just a good local farm or farm stand for buying peaches? Please share!

Eateries that allow or accomodate dogs?

M emails:

I am wondering if there is a casual eatery around where dogs are at least allowed, but I hope they are welcome. This place would ideally be anywhere at all between Albany and Gloversville. The casual [category] would necessarily include those places that only sell hot dogs and hamburgers, I guess, since we'll be eating outdoors. But I'm open.

Non-service animals are prohibited in restaurants by state regulation. But we've seen a bunch of places that (perhaps informally) allow dogs on (just off) patios. And it would seem seasonal outdoor places will have much more leeway.

Have a spot to suggest to M? Please share!

Adapters for olds sinks with hot and cold faucets?

Nicole emails:

I have a very specific question that I hope you can post for your readers. I am renting an apartment that has a period sink with separate hot and cold water faucets. Although it is nice to have the antique sink and it fits with the feel of the 19th century building, warm water to wash my face would be nicer. Does anyone (maybe those who own/have renovated old brownstones) know if there is a temporary solution to this problem? I'm hoping to find a place that sells an adapter piece to bridge between the two faucets? (I've seen such a thing online, but have been unable to find any place that sells it, online or otherwise).

I'd even be interested in reaching out to a local business that would be willing to craft an adapter. Any suggestions for that? As I am renting, replacing the sink or faucets unfortunately is not an option.

This area has a bunch of older houses and apartments -- many that include old fixtures -- so Nicole can't be the first person to want to do something like this.

Got a suggestion? Please share!

Easy trips to warm destinations during winter/spring?

Carolyn emails:

My fiance and I are getting hitched in Albany this spring and looking for ideas for our honeymoon. We want to head somewhere tropical to relax and reflect on what I expect will be a manic but amazing time. Wondering if the AOA crowd-sourced think-tank has any suggestions for easy flights to tropical locales out of the Albany airport.We'd love to leave Albany in the morning and be having dinner and drinks on the beach.

In our somewhat silly "most degrees for your airfare dollar" post this year, south Florida fared (ha) well. And there could be a bit more airline competition by then.

Got a suggestion for Carolyn and her fiance? Please share!

A good real estate agent for Center Square?

Center Square Resident emails:

I am looking for suggestions about a realtor for Center Square in Albany. I am looking into possibly selling my house. There are lots of realtors, however I would like to get some suggestions from people who have had a realtor sell their house in Center Square.

CSR's question touches on a topic we've been kind of curious about: Are certain real estate agents better/worse at selling/helping to buy in specific neighborhoods? Or, to put it another way, can a real estate agent's experience with a neighborhood help you sell your house faster, or find the right house, or get a better deal there?

For a neighborhood such as Center Square -- which is is a bit unusual for the Capital Region, given the neighborhood's housing stock and density -- it seems plausible that agent experience could theoretically make a difference.

So, got a suggestion for CSR? Please share! And if you have thoughts about the specific agents/specific neighborhoods topic, we'd be interested to hear them.

Earlier on AOA: A good real estate agent for selling a house?

Recommendations for a complicated/big plumbing job?

Ashley emails with what sounds like a tough situation involving a possibly broken sewer line, an improperly installed sump pump, and a flooded basement (yikes). Her full situation/question has a bunch of details and is after the jump, but here's a clip:

[The plumbing company] was happy to tell me they would have a technician come out to take a look and that we should focus on the "pipe being broken" and nothing else. All red flags rise. Do I trust a company that happily installed a sump pump to violate the city's code and WORSEN problems for homeowners like me that are suffering with overwhelming amounts of storm water in the city sew systems? No. Do I trust a company that happily wants to dig trenches in the front yard before diagnosing the issue? No. ...

Of course, we have a lot of research to do - were repairs ever made in 2007, gather estimates, weigh our options.

Here's where I need help. This is a big job. The city's website is a shell of a site and offers NO information on who to call or where to start. We tried calling an information number but there was no answer.

What have other residents done in this situation? Who do they recommend?

As mentioned, her whole message is post jump and includes some important details.

Ashley says she's only owned her house for about a month and this sounds like a stressful situation. So suggestions or recommendations could be a big help.

Got advice? Please share!

(there's more)

Where to celebrate National Tequila Day

So it turns out today is National Tequila Day. Yep, that's a thing. And Alisa wrote with a question:

National Tequila Day is Thursday July 24. Does anyone have some good suggestions as to where to celebrate after work?

Anybody have thoughts about where to get a good Margarita, Mule or Texas Two Step -- or just some straight tequila in the Capital Region?

Photo: Kim D.

Where to buy speciality wood for craft/restoration/construction projects?

Eric asks via the Facebook:

Where in the capitol district can I find some fine wood for a restoration project? More specifically I need a few flat pieces of walnut, about a half inch thick. The craft stores don't have anything but pine, and there is nothing at Home Depot.

It seems like there have to be at least a few places to buy this kind of stuffy -- it's just a matter of knowing where to look.

So... do you know where to look? Please share!

A shop for quality stationery and pens?

Eric asks via the Facebook:

Are there any places in the district where you can find quality stationery, pens and ink?

One of the things about the modern world: Because almost no one writes an actual letter and paper note any more, when someone does it carries more weight. (Getting a handwritten paper letter in the mail now feels oddly thrilling and special.)

Got a suggestion for Eric? Please share!

Quick thoughts on Kingston?

R emails:

So I've found my way into a first date with this awesome lady in Kingston, a town, city or whatever that I know nothing about. And it's tonight! Can you help with any suggestions with what I can do??

Other than the fact that Kingston was the first capital of New York State, we know pretty much nothing about the place.

So, any quick suggestions/tips/thoughts about Kingston for R? Please share!

photo: Michael Miello via Wikipedia

Advice on renting out a house?

Chris emails:

We're thinking about moving out of state and renting our house in the town of Bethlehem. Can any of your readers recommend a property manager who can be trusted to select good renters and generally do a good job of managing?

Just to expand a bit on the question from Chris, we're curious if people have thoughts/advice on renting out a house in general: property management company vs. no property management company, selecting tenants yourself vs. leaving that to a manager, and so on.

Got a suggestion for Chris? Please share!

photo: Flickr user woodleywonderworks (CC BY 2.0)

Restaurants with good vegetarian options?

CD asks via Twitter:

Can anybody recommend Albany area restaurants that use local ingredients and have a veggie friendly menu?

We checked to clarify that CD was looking for vegetarian options. Or as CD responded:

Vegetarian options from local sources. #NoBagSalads

It seems more restaurants are offering vegetarian options, though the choices aren't always engaging. That said, some spots have given it a surprising shot. 677 Prime, the fancy pants steakhouse, recently had a vegetarian tasting menu -- we tried it, and while not every course was a hit, there were some interesting dishes. (The best dish involved carrots prepared a few different ways -- it was really good.)

And that points to one of the reasons to be curious about vegetarian options, even if you're not a vegetarian: going meat free often prompts a different, more interesting take on food.

So we're curious to hear about people's vegetarian favorites. Got a suggestion for CD? Please share!

Earlier on AOA:
+ Vegan dishes worth trying -- even if you're not a vegan
+ Hungry for Shades of Green

Residential rooftop solar options?

Mary messages:

I am thinking of going solar on my home... do you have any information on which company, or companies, offer the best deals and have proven most reliable in the Albany area?

We're very curious to hear people's thoughts and suggestions on this question. The rooftop solar industry has been booming recently thanks in large part to a steep drop in the price solar panels. And just anecdotally, we've noticed panels showing up on a bunch of local houses and businesses.

There seem to be roughly two models for getting panels on a house: buy the panels outright and have the installed -- or pay little or nothing upfront for installation, and then buy the power from the panels at a fixed rate from the installing company.

So, experiences or thoughts for Mary? Please share!

Experience with home radon mitigation?

Carl asks via Twitter:

Hey @alloveralbany, know you just did an ask, but can you ask about [experience] with radon mitigators? #askingforafriend #justincase

Quick background: Radon is a radioactive gas that's released from rock and soil, and in some cases, it can get trapped by a house, especially the basement. Sometimes the levels are high enough that it's a health threat (radon exposure can cause lung cancer). Here's an EPA page with radon info.

There are test kits for radon, and you can get one for under $10 from New York State. In cases where radon might be collecting at dangerous levels in a house, modifications can be made to mitigate the problem. Here's a state Department of Health checklist for questions to ask contractors.

So, all that said, anyone have a suggestion or experience to share with Carl? Please share!

Where to shop for maternity bras?

Anonymous messages:

I'm looking for a good place to get fitted for and buy maternity bras (hopefully without breaking the bank.) I know you must have plenty of moms as readers... maybe they could help?

As with any question like this, a sentence or two explaining your suggestion can be a big help.

Got advice for Anonymous? Please share!

Earlier on AOA: Getting the girls the support they deserve (2008)

A good jewelry repair shop?

Dan asks via Twitter:

Can anyone personally recommend a good place to get jewelry repair done around?

We followed up with Dan and he's looking to get a gold chain repaired.

Got a suggestion? Please share! And, as always with these sorts of questions, non-redeemable bonus points for a sentence or two about why you're suggesting that place.

Earlier on AOA:
+ Where to get a ring re-sized? (2010)
+ Ask AOA: A good watch repair place? (2010)

A good trainer for people with medical issues?

Amelia emails:

My friend is looking for a personal trainer in the capital region that deals with individuals with training people with medical issues like insulin resistance or other medical conditions. Anyone know of a personal trainer in the area who is holistic and understanding? Thanks.

Got suggestion for Amelia and her friend? Please share.

Where to take dance lessons?

Matt emails (updated after the question about type of dance):

I'm looking to get dance lessons for my girlfriend as an anniversary gift. We're both total beginners. What is a good place in the capital region to purchase a package of beginner's lessons for a couple?

I'm not sure what type of dancing, but with some Youtube help, maybe something like waltz and foxtrot to begin with and move up to swing and tango.

Non-redeemable bonus points for a line or two about why the classes are good at certain place or with a certain instructor.

Got a suggestion for Matt? Please share!

photo: Flickr user dichohecho (CC BY 2.0)

A good allergist?

Anonymous writes:

I have allergies, to dust and maybe something seasonal as well. And I've managed to get by with over-the-counter medication. But in recent years, it seems like my symptoms have gotten worse. So I'm thinking about seeing an allergist in order to get tested and figure out better treatment. Any suggestion for good allergists in the area?

Got a suggestion for Anonymous? Please share. And, as with any question like this, non-redeemable bonus points for a sentence or two about why you like that doctor -- good listener, figured out a tough case, smooth-running office, or whatever.

Earlier on AOA:
+ Ask AOA: A good dermatologist?
+ Ask AOA: A good ENT doctor?
+ Ask AOA: A good sleep doctor?
+ Ask AOA: A good doctor to treat Lyme disease?
+ Ask AOA: Suggestion of a doctor for migraines?
+ Ask AOA: A good doctor, preferably female?

photo: Flickr user a.drian (CC BY-ND 2.0)

Suggestions for a fun company picnic?

Emily emails:

I'm on the committee planning this summer's retreat for my division (25-30 people) and we're trying to drum up some new ideas. For the past several years we've spent the morning at the Holiday Inn in Saratoga for a meeting, guest speaker, and team building exercises (*groan*). Then, we all head to the track to watch the races from a clubhouse area and have lunch.

We're really hoping to come up with something different this year because that plan is getting a little tired and there are some people on the team who strongly dislike the track.

Our office is in Troy and we're open to anything in the Capital Region where we can have a meeting-ish space and also do something fun.

If the AOA readers can come up with a good suggestion I'll be the office hero :)

These sorts of events are usually a bit tricky because the it's-work-but-hey-we're-supposed-to-be-having-fun aspect of them. But it doesn't sound like Emily's office is looking for anything too unusual.

So, got a suggestion that could make Emily the office hero? Please share!

Renting vs. buying?

Jessica sends us a message:

I'd be curious to see what people thought of renting vs buying in Albany. Which one is cheaper, maybe a poll of how many rent vs buy?

The renting vs. buying question is complicated, in large part because each person and situation is different. And while it isn't necessarily a local question, local factors do play a big role: housing prices, rents, taxes, and so on.

There are a lot of savvy people here -- so, got some advice or ways to think about this question for Jessica? Please share!

Earlier on AOA:
+ Best Capital Region small town, village, or suburb for settling down?
+ Capital Region median home prices 2013
+ A good real estate agent for selling a house?
+ A good real estate agent?

photo: Flickr user woodleywonderworks (CC BY 2.0)

A landscape designer for a backyard makeover?

ChuckD emails:

It's time we did something about the backyard. But we're not interested in some HGTV thing with all parts sourced from a Big Box DIY store. We're looking for a creative designer/contractor who will design and build a natural backyard space to include replacement of a ratty deck, a rattier wood fence, inclusion of an existing inground pool, two existing happy doggies, and most importantly, an awareness and interest in those gray areas between indoors and out and work it into our passive solar house. Can anyone recommend someone who will think outside The Box and help us realize our ideas? Cuz we're clueless.

Even on a small project there can be a big difference between what the typical person can scratch out on the back of an envelope and what a professional designer can put together. And a landscape designer might be able to lend some helpful expertise on the sort of plants and other features that will make the new backyard easier to maintain over the long run.

So, got a suggestion for Chuck? Please share!

A good stylist for Asian hair?

V. emails:

I desperately need a new hair cut, and I was hoping your reader can help. The problem was it is hard to find a good hair stylist for an Asian hair. Would you mind asking your readers to see if they have a suggestion?

We've had a few questions before about finding a good hair stylist (linked below), but this is a new twist on the question.

Got a suggestion for V.? Please share!

Earlier on AOA:
+
+ A good stylist for a pixie cut?
+ A good hair colorist
+ A good haircut for the curly headed?
+ Stylist for long hair?

photo: Flickr user Harsh Patel (CC BY 2.0)

Botanical gardens in the region?

Katie asks via Twitter:

I'm looking for botanical floral gardens both public and private in the capital region area. any leads?

The one that sprang to our mind immediately was the Berkshire Botanical Garden just over the border in Western Massachusetts.

Got other ideas? Maybe even places that aren't botanical gardens exactly, but do have excellent floral gardens? Please share!

Catering for a big outdoor party?

Sarah emails:

I was wondering if your readers could help with this: I'm looking into catering companies for a graduation party in July and want to know which ones have provided excellent service, great food- a great value. I'll need food for 150 people- preferably BBQ style, pig roast even, tents, table and chairs. Price isn't too big an issue- but I'm not looking to drop money like its a wedding. Thanks for the help!

It sounds like Sarah realizes this isn't necessarily going to be cheap -- feeding 150 people almost never is. But we hear what she's saying about not wanting to go over the top like some people might for a wedding.

So, got a suggestion for Sarah? Please share!

Wild edibles foraging tours or classes?

With ramps and fiddleheads in season, Burnt My Fingers emails:

Could you ask your readers to recommend foraging strategies and likely spots? Also, does anyone do foraging tours that I could join in on? (Morels would also be interesting.)

Apparently there's a whole world of wild edibles out there, but it's the kind of thing where you definitely want to learn from someone who knows what their doing. And you want to really get it right, because getting it wrong could have serious consequences.

So, suggestion for foraging tours or classes? Please share!

Good flea markets?

Katie asks via Twitter:

[D]o you guys or your readers have any suggestions on area flea markets? One time or weekly/monthly ones? Thx!

We get the feeling there are a handful around this region -- especially if you're willing to drive a bit.

Got a suggestion for Katie? Please share! And non-redeemable bonus points for a sentence or two about why that market is good, or a tip for visiting it.

A good contractor for installing gutters?

Terence asked via Twitter:

Any chance you could post a question to your blog for recs on local residential seamless gutter installers?

Gutters are one of those things that might seem like kind of a boring thing for your house. And, you know, they're not exactly a "wow" kind of home improvement. But they can make a difference in keeping water out of your basement or away from your foundation.

So... got a suggestion for Terence? Please share!

A good driving instructor?

Baby Boomer emails:

Could you ask your readers if they could recommend a driving instructor, specifically in Albany, who could teach an older person who is very nervous when learning to drive? I took a few lessons years ago and was very stressed out. I still want to learn before I get too old.

A bunch of years ago we had a question about driving schools, but it was in reference to teens. Things change. And also, we're curious if there are any driving instructors who specialize in -- or just happen to be really good with -- adults who are taking up driving.

Got a suggestion for Baby Boomer? Please share!

A company for installing house insulation?

Anon emails:

I'm looking for a competent, reasonably-priced spray foam insulation contractor for my home. I need to have old cellulose insulation removed from parts of my basement, and spray foam installed throughout the basement. Thank you

Based on what we've seen on, um, HGTV and a little bit of what we've read, spray foam insulation is said to do the job very well, better than other types of insulation. It also looks like it's a whole process, with installers wearing ventilated suits and whatnot.

Got a suggestion for Anon? Please share!

photo: Flickr user dunktanktechnician (cc)

A good contractor for tile?

Laura emails:

I am planning on selecting and installing a custom backsplash in my kitchen this spring. Can the readers suggest a company or a contractor we should consider working with?

It's been a while since we've had a kitchen/bathroom contractor question.

So, got a company to suggest? Please share. Non-redeemable bonus points for a quick sentence about why you're suggesting that company.

(And we're guessing someone might suggest Laura try doing it herself -- which is great, but please include where/how Laura might get some help in learning how to do so.)

A good cleaning service?

Lauren emails:

Do you think you could do another post on cleaning services around here? I am looking for someone to do a really good deep cleaning job on my parents' kitchen. I saw a post from 2010, with lots of good feedback about the Ecomaids, but it looks like they don't exist anymore! Even Yelp only gives you two or three options -- any help appreciated.

It's our understanding also that Ecomaids is no longer operating here.

Got a suggestion for Lauren? Please share. And as always, a quick sentence about why you're suggesting a certain company can be very helpful.

A good house exterior painter?

Chuck emails:

We wonder if you could ask your readers for recommendations on a good house painter for the exterior of brownstone-type row houses. Someone who can also do minor repairs on the wooden cornices. Summer painting season will be here before long and we'd like to line up the job now.

Getting the jump on this sort of stuff now is a good idea because sometimes the schedules of contractors fill up fast during the spring and summer.

So... got a suggestion for Chuck and his house? Please share!

Where to go for golf lessons?

Deanna asks:

My five year old daughter has recently taken a huge interest in golf. She insists on watching it on TV, chiding the players with vigorous, "Ah, you almost had it buddy," and, "just get the ball in the hole!" Needless to say, she is inquiring about lessons. I'm quite happy with this, and in classic horse-before-the-cart fashion, we bought some kid-sized clubs for her last year in hopes she would express a desire to chase the little white ball. Does anyone have a suggestion for children's golf lessons? Preferably a group lesson in the Albany or Schenectady area? Thanks AOA readers!

Deanna's asking about kids lessons, and if you have a place to suggest, great. But if you know a good place/person for lessons generally, we're interested in hearing about that, too -- because they might also offer kids lessons, or be able to recommend someone good.

So, have a suggestion? Please share!

Advice on buying a car?

When is that low, low price not the price that you can actually get?

That question was at the center of a state attorney general's office announcement today that it's reached settlements with six Albany-area car dealerships on what the AG's office say were deceptive advertising practices. From the press release: "The dealerships widely promoted sale and lease prices that were illusory because they reflected discounts or rebates that were not available to most consumers, and thus, were not the actual sale or lease price."

The link above includes the dealerships named and some of the promoted discounts the AG's office took issue with. The short story: It pays to read the fine print -- twice -- and to be skeptical.

The AG's office says the dealerships have agreed to pay fines and reform their practices. A seventh dealership is getting a notice about the AG's office intent to sue over the issue.

This situation got us thinking about the car buying process, which -- in our experience at least -- always seems a bit... opaque. Maybe that's not exactly the right word, but the process often seems less than straightforward. And there's always that sense some sort of some smoke and mirrors are involved. (You're really going to talk to your manager?)

So, given the savvy of the AOA crowd, we're curious: What's your advice for the car buying process? Tips for trying to get the best price (or, at least, not being taken advantage of)? Local dealerships you can recommend after having solid experiences there?

Please share!

Earlier on AOA: A good place to buy a used car?

Where to get a dress altered?

Julie emails:

I was wondering if you know where to get a dress altered for a good price in the area. Thanks.

It's been a long time since we've had a question about a seamstress or tailor. We're curious if there's someone who's especially good for dress alterations.

Got a suggestion for Julie? Please share!

Contractor for a historic home?

June asks via Twitter:

Hi guys at @alloveralbany. Looking to repair inside stairs in downtown Albany brick row house. Built c. 1890s. Any suggestions?

Contractors pls. Definitely more than I can do. Would prefer to repair rather than replace depending on cost. Tks!

We've had handyman and contractor questions before, but it's been a few years. And we're curious if maybe there's someone with specific experience doing repairs/renovations in older homes. Example: Maybe someone who would be better at restoring something that's true the house's original design, if that's what June is after.

There a bunch of century-old (or older) homes in this area, so we're guessing there are people with this sort of experience.

Got a suggestion? Please share!

A good dermatologist?

Alison asks:

Any recommendations on a local dermatologist?

We hear that, in addition to trying to find a good dermatologist, Alison is also looking for one who might do well with kids.

So, got a suggestion? Please share! As usual for these types of questions, non-redeemable bonus points for a quick explanation about why that doctor is good -- thorough, good listener, whatever.

Good local postcards?

An old-school Albany postcard.

Wesley emails:

I moved here recently for school and was wondering where I could find cheap Albany postcards for the people back home. Thanks in advance!

We'll adjust Wesley's question a bit to cover any sort of local postcard. Less expensive is better, but we're curious about finding good postcards for this area in general. (And let's hope even the good once aren't all that expensive.)

It's been a while since we've browsed a rack of Albany postcards, but we don't remember many as being kind of cool or interesting. Maybe things have changed. Or maybe this is an opportunity for someone to make some good cards.

So... got a suggestion for Wesley? Please share!

Earlier on AOA:
+ Albany Postcard Project
+ Postcards from the past: Albany
+ Postcards from the past: Troy

image: Boston Public Library collection (cc)

A spot for a post-wedding meal that won't break the bank?

T asks via the Facebook:

I am having a City Hall wedding in August and I am looking for a nice place to have a decent meal afterward for about 20 people that won't break the bank. I would like it to be an Albany restaurant. I have researched several options and they are just too much. I would like to do something that would work out to be $20 or less per person. Can you throw this out to your readers for suggestions? Thanks.

Sometimes it seems like there's almost no ceiling on how much can be spent on a wedding. But trying to keep the cost down -- that can take some creativity and flexibility.

So... got a suggestion for T? Please share! We're especially curious if maybe there's some sort of non-traditional option that might work.

Earlier on AOA: Planning a Capital Region wedding: catering

New to the area, how to meet people and find activities?

Brian emails:

I recently moved to Albany from Manhattan and I am looking to get involved in the area and meet new people. Do you have any suggestions on local groups, leagues, clubs, events, etc? I am open to almost anything - sports (softball, dodgeball..), classes (cooking, painting, sewing, music..), outdoor (running, fishing, hiking...), bar leagues (corn hole, darts..), art shows, wine/food events, etc. Is there a good resource that aggregates info on this (other than AOA of course)?

We suspect moving here from a really big metro area -- especially one like NYC or San Francisco or Seattle -- takes a bit of an adjustment in terms of finding the sort of stuff Brian's looking for. Sure, there's a smaller number of total options and the range is maybe not as wide. But there is plenty of stuff to do around here -- it's just that, unlike one of those big metros, you maybe have to put a bit more effort into finding them.

It sounds like Brian's looking for some specific suggestions, and if you have some, great. But we're also curious about more general strategies you might have. Maybe you can share a little bit about your own experiences finding your niche or crowd here. It could be a big help to Brian and other people who move here. Please share!

photo: Andy Kainz Photography

Best Capital Region small town, village, or suburb for settling down?

Amelia emails:

We are looking at starting the home search and wanted input from AOA. Where is the best small towns, villages and quaint and charming suburbs in the capital region to settle down and start a family? We are looking at staying approximately 20 minutes around Albany and want a more liberal town with low taxes. Is there such a thing?

Having a detailed wish list is a good idea, but the thing about picking a place to live is that you'll almost always end up having to make trade-offs. Want charming? That often means paying more. Want small? Maybe that means living farther out. And so on.

We've come to think that having a wish list is a good way of prioritizing what you want -- and what you're willing to compromise on. Because there will be compromises.

So... got a suggestion for Amelia? Please share! Non-redeemable bonus points for a short explanation for your suggestions. And even if you don't have a specific place in mind, suggestions on how to go about figuring out the right place can be helpful.

An electronics repair shop?

Martin emails:

Our 5-disc DVD player / stereo system just stopped working one morning. It's chock full of borrowed DVDs of course...

Do your readers have a recommendation on electronics repair places?

We've had similar questions in the past, and the answer that often popped up was Lake Electronics on Central Ave -- and with good results, apparently. Unfortunately, Lake closed last year after 60 years in business.

So... anyone got a new suggestion for Martin? Please share!

Shared workspaces or workshops?

Kara emails:

Does anyone know of a shared workspace or workshop in the area?

I need the use of a table saw and don't have one and have heard that these kinds of places exist kinda like a co-op system on the west coast.

The place that immediately jumped to mind is Tech Valley Center of Gravity in Troy. But maybe there are other spots or situations -- workspaces, tool libraries, or whatever.

Got a suggestion for Kara? Please share!

Earlier on AOA: Tech Valley Center of Gravity

Groups for writers to discuss and workshop?

Joe emails:

Do you know any fiction writers groups in the Capital Region, who meet to discuss their work and workshop?

Outside perspective can be a help when working on some sort of creative effort. And there are certainly communities of writers in this area, so we wouldn't be surprised to hear if there are groups -- ranging from the formal to the less so.

Have a suggestion for Joe? Please share!

Where to take friends visiting from out of town?

Pau asks via Twitter:

hey guys, I need your help! Some friends from Mexico are visiting me this weekend; since I'm not local either, I've no idea what is typical here, or where should I take them?! Any suggestions from you and your readers will be welcome.

This is a fun question. Because we get the impression Pau isn't just looking for something to do with her friends, she's also looking for something that will give them a sense of this place.

So, got a suggestion or two? Please share!

A good place for boarding a dog?

Alex asks via Twitter:

Hey @alloveralbany: any Albany locals have any dog kennel recommendations for a weekend in the capital district?

We had a similar question in the past, but it was almost four years ago and things change. So new suggestion could be very helpful.

Got a place at which you feel good about placing your pup for the weekend (or longer)? Please share! Non-redeemable bonus points for a few words about why you like that place?

(there's more)

A good real estate agent for selling a house?

Val emails (emphasis added):

A couple of years ago you did an Ask AoA about real estate agents. The majority of responses were from buyers - I'd love to see Ask AoA recommendations of realtors representing sellers, preferably ones familiar with Albany.

Real estate agents are just like any other profession, and some agents have different skills or strengths compared to other agents. And we get the feeling, anecdotally, that some agents are a bit more aggressive in strategy and pricing for selling a house.

So, got an agent to suggest to Val? Please share! And non-redeemable bonus points for a quick explanation about why that agent is good for sellers.

A good Capital Region spa, as a gift for a friend?

AJW asks via Twitter:

Spas in the Capital Region? (Pref. near Albany, but I know Saratoga has more, and that's ok too.)

Here's the ? i got: "let her get a little spoiled so I thought a massage, manicured etc" as a gift from one friend to another

Or, to frame AJW's question a bit differently, if you were giving a friend a gift certificate to a spa in the Capital Region, which one would you pick?

Got a suggestion? Please share!

photo: Flickr user thomaswanhoff (cc)

Good spinning classes?

Caitlin emails:

I'm trying to find reliably good spin classes here in the Capital Region, and I find it's hard to search for lots of this stuff. Where do AOAers go to spin?

A straightforward question, and it's a good time of year for this sort of thing -- what with ongoing icy grip of winter making exercising outside less than enjoyable.

So... got a suggestion for Caitlin? Please share!

photo: Flickr user USAG- Humphreys (cc), cropped

Where to shop for a wedding dress?

Siobhan asks via Twitter:

518ers, any recommendations for where to buy a wedding dress in the Capital Region? Not for me, for a marriage-minded friend!

In a follow up, she mentioned that the first thing she did was check if there had already been an "Ask AOA" about this topic. So it sounds like she knows she can rely on you for good suggestions.

Non-redeemable bonus points for a short explanation of why the shop you're recommending is good -- service, price, selection, whatever.

Got a suggestion? Please share!

photo: Flickr user billaday (cc)

Suggestions for furniture repair?

Andrea asks via Twitter:

(+) Inherited antique chairs from grandmother. (-) One leg broke off in transit. Recommendations for repair services welcome!

A lot stuff these days is either not well made to begin with, or just so cheap, that it doesn't end up getting repaired. But it's worth it for something like this -- even if it might be hard to find a shop.

So, got a suggestion for Andrea and her chair? Please share!

Earlier on AOA:
+ A place to get furniture re-finished?
+ A local Adirondack chair maker?

A good boxing gym?

Sunny asks via Twitter:

Anyone have recommendations for a #boxing gym in the Capital Region?

We asked if Sunny was looking for boxing that was more fitness oriented, or for actual competitive boxing:

It's for serious fitness I guess--not looking for a foo-foo gym with boxing classes, but not to compete nec. either.

There seem to be a fair a number of gyms that offer some sort of boxing program, but we're guessing they include a wide range -- from the "foo-foo" (as Sunny puts it) all the way up to yep-we're-going-to-hit-someone-in-the-face programs.

So, got a suggestion for Sunny? Please share!

Earlier on AOA: A few years back we talked with pro boxer Sarah Kuhn (that's her in the pic), who had gotten into the sport because she was looking for a better way to get in shape.

A good couples therapist?

Kathy emails:

I was wondering if readers of your blog had any recommendations for couples/marriage counselors. My husband and I would like to work out some major communication issues. I have trusted AOA reader recommendations for so many things, and this is one of those areas where I'd like a solid recommendation. I looked and didn't see any posts on AOA about this. Thanks so much for the help.

Know of a good therapist or counselor you can suggest to Kathy? Please share.

photo: Flickr user nosha (cc)

Where to get a smoothie in Albany?

Janae asked on Twitter today:

Where can I get a smoothie in Albany? Recommendations?

We retweeted, and there were a bunch of suggestions. Apparently people have many opinions about smoothies!

So, with Janae's blessing, we plucked her question from the ephemeral stream of Twitter and gathered the answers here (after the jump). Smoothie seekers of the future, thank Janae.

And if you have a suggestion to add, please do!

(there's more)

How do you shake off the winter gloom?

The sun will come out (literally and figuratively). Eventually.

Comment's been drawn, and the person emailed!

It's January. The holidays are over. Spring is a solid 2-3 months away. It's just... so... gray.

We're setting this up as an Ask AOA question, but it's from the Editors -- who both agreed today they could use some new ways to shake off January blah. So...

How do you shake off the winter gloom?

Maybe you have some suggestions -- things you do around this time of year, maybe local places or activities that help cheer you up. Suggestions are appreciated.

And because one of the things that cheers us up is giving stuff away, we'll give one person who offers a suggestion a $25 gift card to Crisan in Albany. We'll just a draw a person at random from the suggestions.

Important: To be in the pool for the gift card, you have to submit your suggestion by noon on Thursday, January 16. Please use an email address that you check regularly so that we can contact you. The commenter drawn at random will be contacted by noon on Friday, and must respond by noon on the following Monday, January 20.

Your preferred dry cleaner?

Will emails:

As the legislative session is cranking up again, I was wondering if you guys have ever done something similar to your grocery shopping comparison to dry cleaning? With all of us here at the capitol mostly only in suits and tie for 6 months of the year, could be something very helpful.

We did something kind of like that a long, long time ago (and it's now very much out of date). But we hear from Will that he's most interested in price (which that thing didn't address). That's something we might be able to explore, but it will take a little while. So, in the meantime:

Which dry cleaner is is your favorite? Why?

Your suggestions could not only help out Will (and everyone else), but we might also be able to feed the suggestions into a price comparison.

So, got a suggestion? Please share!

Best way to a NYC airport -- with luggage and a kid?

Sean emails with a travel question:

It's no secret that Albany has a small airport, and that finding reasonably priced, direct flights to big cities can often be a bit challenging. I've just booked a cross-country flight out of NYC and was hoping your readers could help me settle on the best option for getting from here to there before lift-off (and then back again a week later).

The current options (as I see them) involve driving + paying to park our car for a week, trains (whether from Albany or Poughkeepsie) or a one-way car-rental each way. We'll have lots of suitcases and a small child in tow.

We did the math on a similar Albany-to-NYC question in the past -- and while the numbers surely aren't still the same, some of the general conclusions probably still hold true. But Sean's question is different because he's headed to one of the NYC airports (presumably JFK or LaGuardia, not Newark). And the "lots of suitcases and a small child in tow" adds a degree of difficulty.

So... thoughts for Sean on the best option for his trip? Please share!

Where to get gingerbread cookies?

Ruthie asked a timely holiday question via Twitter:

Would you happen to know which bakery has gingerbread cookies in the Capital District?

We retweeted Ruthie's question over the weekend, and there were a handful of responses. They're after the jump.

Got a suggestion for Ruthie? Please share!

photo: Flickr user Flare (cc)

(there's more)

Where to find appetizings?

Daniel Nester asks via the Facebook:

Is there no place to get appetizing in the Capital Region? Anyone?

In this case he's referring to an "appetizing store." From a definition on the website for Russ & Daughters, a century-old appetizing store in Manhattan:

"Appetizing," as a noun, is a Jewish food tradition that is most typical among American Jews, and it is particularly local to New York and New Yorkers. The word "appetizer" is derived from the Latin "appete," meaning "to desire, covet, or long for." Used as a noun, "appetizing" is most easily understood as "the foods one eats with bagels." Its primary components are a variety of smoked and cured salmon, homemade salads, and cream cheeses.

The plural of these foods is "appetizings" rather than appetizers. Here's a Gothamist article about appetizing stores from a few years back about how the stores were once very common in NYC, but have slowly disappeared -- and the ones remaining have evolved.

So, we suspect there isn't an appetizing store, exactly, in the Capital Region. But we bet you can gather many similar items if you know where to look.

Got a suggestion for Daniel and others looking to nosh? Please share!

photo: Flickr user stu_spivack (cc)

A good painter, especially for spaces with high ceilings?

Jona asks via Twitter:

Hey @alloveralbany! know of any local painters in the Troy area?

Brownstone = high ceilings, looking for references, available in January, insured (this is all new to us).

We had a similar question last year, but things change. And maybe there are some suggestions for Troy-area painters, or painters with particular expertise in working on spaces with high ceilings.

Got a suggestion for Jona? Please share!

Digital photography classes?

Kayla emails:

I'm looking to purchase beginner DSLR photography classes (or class) for someone as a gift. Saratoga area preferred, but can stretch a little farther to Albany or Glens Falls if needed. My Google searches aren't turning up much. Help?

If you have local class to suggest, great. Also, we've heard that sometimes there are local photography groups that get together to take photos -- which sounds like a good way to learn in an informal way. If you can suggest one of those groups, that could be helpful, too.

Got suggestions for Kayla? Please share!

photo: Wikipedia user Hanabi123 (cc)

Where to get boots fixed up?

Kobe asks via Facebook:

Does anyone know a good place to take leather boots that are scuffed/scraped and need to be fixed up? I don't trust myself on this one.

We had a related question -- about getting boots re-soled -- a few years back. The answers there might be helpful. But we're guessing the number of places that can give a pair of boots a good fixup exceeds the number of places that could do a whole re-soling. (Or maybe not. That's why it's good to ask.)

Boot season is here. So, got a suggestion for Kobe? Please share!

What is a reasonable price for a cab ride from ALB to downtown Albany?

Carolyn emails with a holiday travel question:

Wondering if you can do a thread on what to expect if you're flying into Albany and trying to get to downtown Albany by taxi. In the past I have had to some strange experiences. I.E. having to share cabs with strangers and then been price gouged for the pleasure.

This year I'm going to try and set a price before leaving the airport but I'm not even sure what's normal here. What is a reasonable amount to pay for a cab from the airport to Albany? Thanks and happy holidays!

Let's just put this way: We don't think Carolyn is alone in having odd Capital Region experiences. We're guessing plenty of people have their own similar stories.

So, got an answer to Carolyn's question -- or even just some local taxi negotiation strategies? Please share!

photo: Flickr user Ben Fredericson (xjrlokix) (cc)

Where to buy a real Christmas tree?

Heather emails:

I would love to know the best place to buy a real christmas tree. It doesn't have to be cut your own but I rather buy from an independent seller then a chain. Thank for the help.

We've had a similar question before, but, it mostly ended up in a discussion about whether live/real Christmas trees were environmentally friendly. Which is a fine discussion to have, it just didn't really address the question at hand.

So if you have a suggestion for Heather, please share!

By the way: Here's last year's list of cut-your-own-tree places -- it is not updated for this year, but it's a good place to start if you want to head out into the cold with a saw. (Wait, that doesn't sound right...)

A company for air duct cleaning?

Elisabeth asks via Twitter:

Hey @alloveralbany -- can your readers recommend a good company that cleans heating / AC ducts? Thanks!

We were kind of skeptical of these services, but then we saw ducts get cleaned on one of those home renovation shows on HGTV and... there was a lot of stuff in there, which makes sense -- why wouldn't air ducts accumulate dust and dirt. (That said, it wasn't enough to prompt us to actually pick up the phone and schedule someone to do it. Oh, inertia.)

So, got a suggestion for Elisabeth? Please share!

Must-do winter activities in the Capital Region?

Mik emails:

I moved to Albany in September and am looking for some suggestions of must-do winter activities in the capital region (art, cultural events, outdoor activities, etc). Very broad ask, I know, but I don't even know what the options are!

First off: Welcome!

Second: You might be surprised by how much there is to do during the winter here, especially if you're willing to layer up and head outside.

We'll start with one suggestion: You should go ice skating at the Empire State Plaza (tentative opening date this year is November 29). Sure, it gets kind of crowded, but it's fun to be outside in a public space during the winter with a bunch of other people also having fun. And if you can swing by after work, it's a nice end to the workday -- somehow the stress of all those TPS reports starts to fade after a few turns on the ice.

That's just one suggestion. There's a bunch of other stuff. So, got a suggestion for Mik? Please share!

Indoor tracks for running?

Ellie asks via Twitter:

Hey @alloveralbany do you know of any cheap indoor tracks for running? Free would better, or no contact if paid membership needed.

It can be hard to stay active during the winter. And while running on a treadmill can be OK, it's not the same as actually running and getting somewhere -- even if you're just running in circles.

So, got a suggestion for Ellie? Please share!

Earlier on AOA: Owning Winter: Running in the cold

Martial arts classes for adults?

Kristin emails:

I was wondering if any of your readers could offer suggestions for adult martial arts classes. I'm particularly looking for a good Tae Kwon Do school in the area, but am open to other martial art styles.

So far all of the schools I've looked in to start their adult classes at 12 or 13 years old and don't have many students over 16 or 17. I'm not opposed to training with children, I'd just like there to be some other adults in the class as well.

This is pretty straightforward. Got a suggestion for Kristin? Please share!

photo: Flickr user Kai Schreiber (Genista) (cc)

Where to get eye glasses?

James asks via a comment:

Where is a good place to get eye glasses & eye tests & the whole shabang? New to the Clifton Park area & need to find a reasonable priced option.

On one hand, glasses can be very expensive. On the other, you're probably going to get a lot of use out of them and they become a core feature of your appearance. However you look at it (ha, walked right into that one), it's worth seeking out a place that has frames that you can afford and like.

So even though James is in Clifton Park, it could be worth it for him to go wherever in the immediate Capital Region -- even if that means getting his eyes checked one place, and taking the prescription for glasses somewhere else.

So... got a suggestion for James? Please share!

Earlier on AOA: Ask AOA: A good eye doctor?

A good attorney for writing a will?

Kate emails:

Could anyone recommend a good, reasonable lawyer to prepare a simple will?

A will is one of those things most people, especially younger people, are probably like, "Me? I don't need a will."

But you might surprised, even for the non-Warren Buffets of the world -- a will can help can help smooth the way a bit for your loved ones after you die. And while there are online services that now offer to help with preparing a will, an actual attorney might be able to ask you better questions for writing a more helpful will.

So, suggestions for Kate? Bonus points for explaining why you're suggesting that attorney. And extra bonus points for mentioning roughly how it much it cost, so Kate and everyone else has a good idea of what they might expect to pay.

Earlier on AOA:
+ Ask AOA: A good divorce attorney?
+ Ask AOA: Attorneys for small businesses?

photo: Flickr user Edinburgh City of Print (cc)

Help making wedding rings?

An Engaged Person emails:

My fiance and I are interested in making our own wedding bands. We aren't sure how to approach this though and I'm wondering if you or your readers might have some recommendations regarding how on earth we would go about doing this. Are there jewelers or metal workers in the area that do this kind of thing?

And just to clarify, I mean *make* them - not just *design* them!

Well, there are definitely at jewelers and metal workers in this area who could probably assist with the process. We guess it really just comes down to how involved EP and fiance want to be on the spectrum of actually making the rings -- with design and sourcing materials at one end, to working some of the materials, all the way up to climbing a volcano to forge the metal in lava. (OK, that far end is a little crazy -- they'd obviously take a helicopter to the top of the volcano. Who actually makes that climb anymore?)

So... got a suggestion for this Engaged Person, either for a local jewelry maker and/or how to go about finding out more about the possibilities? Please share.

Earlier on AOA: The artist as metalsmith: John De Rosier's jewelry

Musical instrument repair?

ChuckD emails:

I'm the owner of a nice, but well-used alto saxophone that's in need of some professional TLC. Is there anyone in the area who I could entrust this to? Big bonus points for fast turnaround!

Got a suggestion for a place where Chuck's saxophone can get a tune up? Please share!

photo: Flickr user wakalani (cc)

Where to rent a log splitter?

Sean emails:

I live in Albany. Do you or your readers know any places where I can rent a wood splitter locally? Bonus points for contact info to go along with the name!

Or, if not that, maybe there's a rent-a-lumberjack service? We hear they're O-K. (Haha ... Respect the flannel.)

Got a suggestion for Sean? Please share!

Earlier on AOA: Ask AOA: Where to buy firewood?

photo: Flickr user Horia Varlan (cc)

What sort of winter coat(s) should I buy? And where?

The world have never seen a dorkier coat than that parka. But it did the job.

A question from AOA Greg. Let us now self-blockquote:

It is time to bid farewell to my winter coats. My beloved 3/4 length corduroy coat is frayed and falling apart (fail wale). And my LL Bean parka -- which has protected me against many a winter, much lake effect snow, and frequent blustery dog walks -- has finally succumbed to catastrophic zipper failure and other indignities of old age. Also: it makes me look like (even more of) an enormous dork.

So I'm looking for a new coat. Or coats. I'd like to get away with just buying one. But I suspect I should probably replace both types. I need a coat for work around town, but also long walks with the dog and other winter outside activities (I don't ski).

If you have suggestions of where I should shop for a coat, great. But I'm also looking for suggestions of what type or brand of coats. Do you have a favorite winter coat type? What about brand? Should I re-submit myself to the warm, reliable dorkiness of another LL Bean model? Or is there something better? (Please say there is.)

So, got a suggestion? Please share. Greg will think warm thoughts about you this winter.

(there's more)

Prenatal classes?

Reader emails:

I'm writing in search of prenatal classes - yoga, dance, workout, etc - held in the evening or on the weekend. I'm in downtown Albany, but could travel to other nearby locales. Do your readers have any good ones to recommend?

It sounds Reader's looking for prenatal movement/exercise classes. But we'll expand Reader's question just a bit to also include prenatal classes on topics such as newborn care or breastfeeding.

Got a suggestion? Please share! Non-redeemable bonus points for a sentence or two about why you liked the class you're suggestion.

Earlier on AOA: Ask AOA: A good obstetrician?

photo: Flickr user nerissa's ring (cc)

Advice for buying local art?

Higgs emails:

Do you know of local stores/galleries from which one can buy art? I'm thinking mostly along the lines of paintings created by local artists, but anything else is great, too.

There are a lot of galleries around the Capital Region, especially if you draw the circle wide enough to include a place such as Hudson. And if you have a favorite local gallery or local artist, please share.

But we're also hoping people will have some advice for Higgs (and everyone else) about the process of buying art. Where to look? What to look for? Buy directly from an artist? Advantages/disadvantages of buying through a gallery? Maybe tips about how to figure out what you like and how to make it work in your house/office/wherever?

So, got a suggestion on any of that... please share!

A company for chimney sweeping and repair?

Val asks via Twitter:

Ok, so thinking ahead, I don't see an Ask AOA on chimney sweeps. I'd love a name of someone in Alb who cleans & does masonry.

This may sound like one of those jobs from 1890 or something (and, you know, it was... and it wasn't also chim chim cher-ee). But it can be important for a modern chimney that still gets used. Residue builds up over time and it can be a safety issue.

So... got a suggestion for Val? Please share.

photo: Flickr user jayneandd (cc)

Where to take continuing education classes?

Chris asks via Twitter:

"Do you [know] where would I find continuing education programs in Albany County?"

The first place that jumped to mind: the Albany school district, which offers a slate of continuing ed classes. Here's the current schedule of classes.

But we're certain there are other options out there. Have a suggestion for Chris? Please share!

Earlier on AOA:
+ A sampling of cooking classes, fall 2013
+ Where to take foreign language classes (2009)

photo: Flickr user Kyle McCluer (cc)

Where to get bubble tea?

Andrea asked this morning on Twitter:

I want bubble tea. Does @alloveralbany know where I can get some?

Our first thought was the Hong Kong Bakery on Wolf Road. But people on Twitter had a few other suggestions -- they're after the jump.

Got a suggestion for a local spot for bubble tea? Please share.

(there's more)

A company to remove asbestos?

Emily emails with follow-up -- and a question (emphasis added):

A few weeks ago, someone asked for recommendations for a reputable home inspector who specialized in old homes (they specified farmhouses). As luck would have it, a few weeks later my husband and I found ourselves needing a reputable home inspector with experience looking at old homes.

Your readers' recommendations were unbelievably spot-on. The inspector we chose (Peter Shaming of Excelsior Home Inspections if I may be specific) was incredibly thorough, knowledgable and professional. He found things that had been missed on a previous inspection and even managed to impress the two engineer team of my husband and father-in-law which is not an easy task.

Well, with all that- one of the things he found was a small amount of old asbestos wrap around some ductwork in the basement. We would like to get it professionally removed and are looking for recommendations. Your readers gave us awesome guidance the first time, does anyone have any reputable and licensed asbestos abatement contractors they would recommend?

First off, it's great to hear those earlier answers were helpful. +1 to everyone who offered a suggestion.

Now, onto Emily's question: Have a suggestion for a good company to handle this asbestos issue? Or maybe your house also had a similar asbestos situation and you found away to address it without removal? Please share.

A good dentist for people afraid of going to the dentist?

A asks via Twitter:

I have real, severe, serious fear of the dentist. But I have to go. Recommendations [for] who will treat me accordingly?

It's been a few years since we've had a question about dentists. And A is looking for someone who can help ease her anxiety about being in the dental chair. (Sometimes the right person and a little bedside manner can make all the difference.)

So... know of good dentist for A? Please share. Non-redeemable bonus points will be awarded for answers that include a bit of explanation about what makes that dentist/dental office good.

Earlier on AOA:
+ Ask AOA: A good dentist? (2010)
+ Ask AOA: A good oral surgeon? (2010)

photo: Flickr user Betsssssy (cc)

Web developer for an online business?

Anonymous emails:

I am looking for an experienced web developer to help me launch an online business, someone who is highly proficient in HTML to hit the ground running on my site.

It sounds like Anonymous is maybe looking for a developer who has experience setting up an online shop or e-commerce system, so that might narrow the range a bit.

And, of course, a developer doesn't necessarily have to be local -- but it's nice to be able to meet up and talk to face-to-face. (We do get the sense Anon is looking for someone in the area.)

Have a web developer or firm to suggest? Please share.

Halloween parties/costume contests?

Christine emails:

My partner and I are wondering if you've gotten word of any hip, non 20-year-old slutty-version of Halloween costume contests and/or parties (charitable or otherwise) in the Albany area? Any help is greatly appreciated!

There's usually a Halloween party at the Washington Park Lakehouse, though we haven't seen any details about that this year (if you know what's up, please share).

Have a suggestion or idea for Christine? Please share!

Update: Details about this year's Washington Park Lakehouse Halloween party floated our way after we posted this question. The party is October 26 from 9 pm-1 am. Tickets are $25 ahead, $50 at the door -- advance tickets available at the Pearl Street Pub and the Barrel Saloon. The party is open bar (as well as 21+) and "costumes mandatory."

still from It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown

Suggestions for a 1920s-themed local wedding?

Allison emails with a fun question:

I'm recently engaged and am overwhelmed with all the potential wedding venues in our area. To help narrow the choices down, I've decided on a 1920's era themed wedding (secretly hoping Hemingway crashes my party, drunk).

Can you guys help a girl out with some vintage-y and spacious venues? And if you have any other dope ideas for center pieces, signature drinks, etc. please do not hold back.

This area has no shortage of wedding venues -- and some of them even date back to the 1920s (or thereabout).

So, got a suggestion for Allison? Please share!

photo: State Library of Queensland Flickr

Where to get pepper spray? And maybe tips for staying safe while jogging?

Sean emails:

I like to go out jogging after work with my kid in the jogging stroller. Unfortunately, sunsets are creeping up earlier and earlier leaving me finishing my runs on trails alone and in the dark. In an effort to keep running, but to do-so more safely, I wanted pick up a bottle of mace / pepper-spray to help ward off any potential predators. Do any of your readers know where can I buy some in the area?

As it happens, New York State has a law about who can have pepper spray, where it can be bought, and how it can be used. (The state legalized its possession and use for self defense in 1996, the last state to do so. It was controversial at the time -- apparently Rudy Giuliani was a vocal opponent.) The rules are, basically:

+ Only people age 18 and older can have "self-defense sprays." A no one who's been convicted of a felony or assault.

+ It can only be sold by a licensed dealer, either a firearms dealer or pharmacy or a vendor approved by the State Police.

+ Using the spray in any way other than self defense is a crime.

So, suggestions for Sean? And if you have additional ideas about jogging safety or maybe self-defense classes, please share.

photo: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Flickr (cc)

Where to go horse riding?

Tracy asks via Twitter:

Albany, I just want to ride the horses. ... I found one place online, not sure how updated the info is, for Renegade Farms. They offer instructions, but also have a "work to ride" program where you can volunteer time to learn about & help care for the horses in exchange for extra ride time. I like the idea behind that because it's a more immersive learning experience (plus it benefits the stable).

It sounds like Tracy is interested in more than, say, just riding horses one afternoon -- she maybe also wants to get some riding lessons and learn about caring for the animals, too.

So, got suggestion for her? Please share!

Contractor to fix a wet basement?

Anonymous emails:

I'm looking for competent, reliable contractors to fix a moisture problem in our basement. I'm aware of two companies in our area: Adirondack Basement Solutions and Kinetic Basement Solutions.

Can you post a request on the web for readers to share their experiences with these companies, as well as any recommendations for others to contact?

There seem to be a lot of companies that advertise services to address this problem, but we get the sense that wet basements can be tricky. And sometimes fixing the problem goes beyond the basement itself -- to things like gutters.

So, got a suggestion for Anonymous? Please share.

Bartending classes?

Nate emails:

I'm looking for some information on any local bartending programs. I know there is at least one thats been around for years in the Clifton Park area. I've heard mixed reviews on the class and even if it's necessary..ie - many people just recommend just starting at a local bar as a barback shadowing someone and working your way up. I was hoping you or the readers could shed some light on this topic.

Suggestions? Ideas? A little bit of insight? Please share.

Flickr user mfajardo (cc)

Donating hair for charity?

Chrisck emails:

My question is about donating hair for charity (for wigs for cancer patients). My hair has gotten quite long and I want to cut it, but would donate it if I knew where to go to donate it. Also, I'd like to talk to someone about exactly how long they need the hair to be because I might be willing to wait a while longer for the cut if my hair needs to be longer to be useful. Anybody know anything about donating hair?

As we understand it, there a few charities that collect hair for this purpose (and some criticism of at least one).

So, anyone have the scoop for chrisck? Suggestions about a local place to go to have the hair cut properly for this purpose? Please share.

photo: Flickr user quinn.anya (cc)

A good home inspector?

Cheryl emails:

My husband and I are looking for a good home inspector: someone who walks you through everything and explains things thoroughly. Specifically if anyone has experience with old farm houses, that would be preferable.

The specific "old farm house" part might be a little hard to find, but there are certainly home inspectors in this area that have plenty of experience inspecting old (and sometimes really old) houses.

So, got a suggestion for Cheryl and her husband? Please share. You'll win our respect and admiration if you're specific about what you're recommending a certain home inspector.

A good ENT doctor?

Erin asks via Twitter:

Can any of you recommend a good ENT specialist in the area? ... I need to see someone soon ish

As you probably know, ENT = ear, nose, and throat.

Know of a good doctor for Erin? Please share! Bonus points for being specific about why you like that doctor.

Earlier on AOA:
+ Ask AOA: A good sleep doctor?
+ Ask AOA: A good doctor to treat Lyme disease?
+ Ask AOA: Suggestion of a doctor for migraines?
+ Ask AOA: A good doctor, preferably female?

photo: Flickr user a.drian (cc)

Where to rent a wheelchair?

W emails:

Wondering if I can rent a wheelchair somewhere for the weekend. A friend is coming to visit, and she suffered a big knee injury in a car crash, so walking a lot won't work for her. If I can wheel her around here and there, it will expand the activities we can do.

A wheelchair rental doesn't seem like something that should be too hard to find.

Got a suggestion for W? Please share.

photo: Flickr user Yahoo! Accessibility Lab (cc)

Fix or replace an antique lock?

Otis emails:

Our house was built in 1880 and has a Corbin lock on the front door. The cast iron box that fits inside the door has some broken sections so it's no longer functional. Our locksmith says that there were many different Corbin locks and it's almost impossible to find a match in a working lock... but the alternative is to get rid of all our antique hardware and replace it with a modern lockset. So naturally I want to try finding a replacement.

We weren't familiar with Corbin locks, so we did a little poking around on Flickr -- and some of the examples that turned up are beauties. We can understand the desire to either fix or replace it with something similar, especially on a Victorian-style or other older home.

So, have a suggestion for where Otis can find someone to either fix this lock -- or, more likely, a place that might sell a similar replacement? Maybe someplace that specializes in working on older homes? Please share.

image via Wikipedia

A field of sunflowers?

Kristen emails:

Do you know of any fields of in-bloom sunflowers in the area? I got the idea last year to photograph my daughter in a field of sunflowers when I passed by an awesome one on Rt. 9H by Kinderhook, but I never made it down there before they died off.

We gotta admit we're posting Kristen's question because we really like sunflowers and the thought of a whole field of them makes us smile. So we'd kind of like to know, too.

Got the scoop on some sunflowers? Please share.

A good stylist for a pixie cut?

Sarah asks via the Facebook:

Hey, can anyone recommend a good stylist for a pixie cut? It can be so hard to find someone really good with short cuts for women...Thanks!

Our first thought when seeing Sarah's question was Christine over at Unspeakable Visions and her super cute pixie cut -- she chronicled her switch to the pixie in a fun series for the "pixie curious." That's Christine on the right.

But going short can feel like a jump. So... have a good stylist to suggest for Sarah? Please share!

Earlier on AOA: Ask AOA: A salon for very (insert color) hair?

Where to find something cronut-like?

Spencer asks via Facebook:

Are there any bakeries in the capital region making cronut knockoffs? I would love to try.

You might be wondering: What the @#$% is a cronut?

It's essentially a donut made from croissant dough. The "pastry hybrid" is said to have sprung to life from the head of Dominique Ansel, a chef in Manhattan. (It's unclear if the cronut sprang forth from Ansel's head fully grown.) And since taking shape in May, the cronut has prompted a lot of people in NYC to stand in line. The craze -- like some zombie apocalypse virus, no doubt taking advantage of air travel and our interconnected world -- has since spread to other large cities. (Though none of those are officially "cronuts," because the term was trademarked by Ansel.)

So... about finding something like that here in the Capital Region? We haven't heard of any place making them. But maybe there's something like it. Or, perhaps, some local place will see this as an opportunity. (Cider cronut, anyone?)

Have a suggestion for Spencer? Please share.

Earlier on AOA:
+ Trying the glazed donut breakfast sandwich at Dunkin' Donuts
+ Eat This: Boston cream donuts at Bella Napoli
+ Eat This: Glazed donuts at the Cookie Factory
+ A short tour of Capital Region doughnuts

photo: Flickr user klwatts (cc)

Volunteer or mentoring opportunities for science, technology, engineering, and/or mathematics?

Elizabeth emails:

Are there any local organizations that need volunteers to mentor or tutor K-12 students interested in science, technology, engineering and/or mathematics? I am interested in volunteering, but having trouble finding a reputable organization where I can have an impact. I am especially interested volunteering for an organization that encourages high school aged girls to pursue a degree in a STEM related field. And while I've got your attention, are there other organizations (any type) you would recommend volunteering for?

Sometimes having someone there to lend a hand now and then, and tell you "I did this and you can, too" can be a powerful thing.

So, got a suggestion for Elizabeth? Please share!

photo: Flickr user s58y (cc)

How to find a weekend camp in the Adirondacks?

Sean emails (emphasis added):

I'm looking for recommendations for a weekend camp/cabin rental somewhere up in the Adirondacks. My desires are simple - on a body of water. I'm not looking for anything fancy or expensive - simpler is MUCH preferred. We like to swim, kayak, hike, have campfires, grill and just relax. My wife and I are looking to begin what we hope to become a yearly tradition for our new family. Where have you, your families or your friends gone that you might recommend?

Do you have any tips for searching for something like this, whether through realtors, any site that's specific to this kind of search, etc? Three years of NY living don't provide me with the strong base of relatives / schoolmates / neighbors who I can mine for recommendations. Any thoughts / help would be greatly appreciated!

If have a specific suggestion, by all means please share. But what we really like about Sean's question is that he's asking how to go about finding a place like this. Sometimes that's the best way to help someone.

So, suggestions for how Sean should start looking into? This summer is nearing an end, but it could help him (and others) get a jump on next summer.

Earlier on AOA:
+ Ask AOA: Weekend trips in the Adirondacks?
+ How to hike the High Peaks and not be That Guy
+ "The birthplace of the American vacation"

illustration from Adventures in the wilderness, or, Camp-life in the Adirondacks (1869) via archive.org

Good place to shop for appliances?

Annie asks via Facebook:

I was wondering if you guys (or your readers) could recommend the best place to find deals on kitchen appliances as well as any good contractors in the area. My fiance and I just bought our first house so we'd love a good point in the right direction!

We've had a handful of contractor questions in the past. But we don't think we've ever had a question about where to buy appliances.

A lot of people might default to one of the big box stores -- but the Capital Region also has a handful of local appliance stores. So, there's some choice.

Have a suggestion for Annie about where to shop -- or even just suggestions about what to look for? Please share!

Good venue for a medium-sized, indoor wedding reception?

Joanna emails:

My sister is planning her wedding for this December and is looking for a venue for the reception that is on the smaller side, where she can entertain approximately 80 guests. She is not bound by area -- we've been looking for places in Saratoga, Troy, Albany, Schenectady, etc. I didn't know if you've posted about this topic in the past or maybe if your readers might have some suggestions.

We've had a question before about finding a place for a small wedding. That was a few years back, though, and many of those spots were outside.

Of course, there aren't any shortages of places to hold receptions. But we're curious about places that are maybe unexpected, or non-traditional. You know, the sort of place that makes you say, "That wouldn't have occurred to me, but it could be cool." (Or, this case, warm, for December.)

So, have a suggestion Joanna and her sister? Please share!

Earlier on AOA:
+ Ask AOA: Where to get a wedding dress cleaned, preserved?
+ Ask AOA: Interesting wedding spot in downtown Albany?
+ Ask AOA: Where to have a small wedding?

photo: Flickr user billaday (cc)

A good sleep doctor?

Molly asks via Twitter:

anyone know of a good sleep specialist in #albany? I've already done a sleep study, just need a doctor for check ups/treatment

Not sleeping well can really mess up your health and the way you feel. (We know people who've gotten treatment for a sleep disorder and it's made a big difference for them.)

So, know of a good sleep doctor in the area? Please share.

Earlier on AOA:
+ Ask AOA: A good doctor to treat Lyme disease?
+ Ask AOA: Suggestion of a doctor for migraines?
+ Ask AOA: A good doctor, preferably female?

How to deal with cat calling?

After being cat called on Lark Street -- again -- Colleen writes:

I had had it. I was tired of being catcalled on the street because I happened to be guilty of being a Woman While Walking. In sweats, in jeans, in a slouchy dress in 90+ degree heat, they sidle up to you, just too close for comfort and insinuate themselves into your errand. I was tired of having to keep my eyes locked forward in my own neighborhood. I was tired of fixing my face into a haughty mask any time I walked without Mike by my side. I was sick of it.

And he happened to be there. And I happened to be ready to ovary up and be a woman.

You can read what happened next.

The experience prompted Colleen to ask us via Twitter:

I'm done w/ just ignoring catcallers around Lark. How do other ladies handle the #harassment?

This is an ongoing problem. And if you're a guy, you might not realize how big a problem it is -- ask some of your lady friends, you might be surprised how often it happens.

So. What's the best way to handle these situations? Experiences, suggestions or encouragement to share with Colleen and other women? Please share.

A good cat groomer?

Jennifer emails:

At the risk of sounding like a crazy cat lady, I need help finding a groomer for my cat. Newborn baby + slightly neglected long haired cat = a total mess. We had a not so good experience with the vet recommended groomer. I appreciate the help!

We know there are a bunch of places for dog grooming. But cat grooming seems like it's probably harder to find. And it's our understanding that cats can sometimes be challenging when it comes to stuff like this. (Let's not even talk about trying to herd them.)

So, anyone have a suggestion for Jennifer and her cat? Please share!

Earlier on AOA: Ask AOA: Veterinarian care for cats?

photo: Flickr user Tambako The Jaguar (cc)

Where to get a bike fixed?

Super Girl asks via Twitter:

just searched @alloveralbany for recommendations on bike repair shops in the area, but got no results. please help! have no clue where 2 go!

We checked, too, and it doesn't look like we've had this question before.

So, where should Super Girl go to get her bike fixed?

Earlier on AOA:
+ Summer school: Buying a bicycle
+ 2010: Ask AOA: Where to buy a bike

A good doctor to treat Lyme disease?

Laura asks via Facebook:

My husband was just diagnosed with Lyme disease after the ER doctor who saw him last week (when his temp reached nearly 105!!) spotted a tick bite that neither of us or his primary care physician noticed. We weren't such great fans of his PCP to begin with, but now we really want to find a better one. Not looking for infectious disease specialists, but a really good primary care or internal medicine physician who is especially Lyme literate would be a dream. ...

Anyone with Lyme have a doctor they really love?

This is an important question -- not only for Laura and her husband, but also because this region is part of zone along the East Coast where Lyme is particularly prevalent. And Lyme can be tricky to treat. (Chris Gibson is part of a group of elected officials pushing for increased federal funding for research and better testing for Lyme disease.)

Have a suggestion for Laura and her husband? Please share.

Earlier on AOA: The spread of Lyme disease

photo: CDC/Anna Perez

Help with financial planning?

EAW emails:

I just had a baby in May and have made it a goal to get my financial plans together while on maternity leave - saving up for retirement, my son's college education, figuring out how much life insurance I need, etc. I've been trying to read up online and do it on my own, but it's getting too complicated now and I need some help. I'd really like to find an intelligent and trustworthy financial planner to work with and would love to get some recommendations from people in the capital region. Thanks for your help!

We've had a similar question before, but it's been a while and maybe we can round up some new suggestions. And although EAW is looking for a financial planner, we're also curious about other resources that could help -- organizations, books, websites, whatever that's helped you get organized and move ahead with a plan.

So, got a suggestions for EAW? Please share!

Earlier on AOA: Ask AOA: Tips for tracking spending?

photo: Flickr user edinburghcityofprint (Edinburgh City of Print) (cc)

Help with window repair?

Christina asks via Facebook:

i'm trying to find someone who does window repairs in Schenectady. There seem to be plenty of companies willing to replace your windows - but none that I can find that do repairs. Anyone know of any awesome handyman service or window repair specialist they are willing to recommend? We have some casement windows that need repair - leaking water (in this torrential downpour rain we've been having). Thanks.

We've had a question before about fixing really old windows -- like, almost a century old. But Christina's question is a bit different. And it'd be great to help her find a way to fix rather than replace.

Have some insight? Please share!

Tips for tracking spending?

Chrisck emails:

Can anyone recommend software for tracking expenses? I've never in my life made a budget for myself because I always innately lived within my means, whether as a poor student or working stiff. Now I'm a "pensioner" on a fixed/reduced income and I think I should track my spending for a year just to (hopefully) affirm that I'm solvent. I'm looking for simple, free software, maybe something where I can customize the categories to track some of my quirkier spending habits.

This might not be a local question, per se. But we're guessing a bunch of people here have some good insights on this topic.

Got a suggestion for Chris? Please share!

Earlier on AOA:
+ Ask AOA: A good accountant for small businesses?
+ Ask AOA: A good accountant?
+ Ask AOA: A good financial adviser?

photo: Flickr user edinburghcityofprint (Edinburgh City of Print) (cc)

Transportation options for a group day trip?

Jeff, from the American Outlaws Albany Chapter -- the fan group for the US Men's National Soccer Team -- emails:

July 16th the US Men's Soccer Team has a Gold Cup game at Rentschler Field in Hartford. We have plenty of members (Albany AO chapter) planning to go and many have said they're bringing friends. Originally we were just going to carpool but some beer and prodding led to me agreeing to research transit options.

Realistically we would leave around 2 to 3pm and return soon after the game which would end at 10pm.

Freedom to have some "fun" (music/noise and adult beverages) on board is a huge plus, but value is first concern. I have heard good things about a new company recently but can't find them - I believe they ran a bus from Olde English or Barrel Saloon to SPAC for a concert?

Jeff says they're looking at a group of 20-40 (or more).

Got a transportation suggestion for the group? Please share!

A good career coach?

Liz emails:

I'm in the midst of exploring brand new career paths and I'm looking to work, ideally in person, with a career coach. I was wondering if there are any great career coaches, life coaches, or career consulting firms in the area that perhaps you or the AOA community could recommend.

It seems to us that this sort of thing could a few different ways. One way, the good way, would be finding a person who can help you work through figuring out what you really want to do, whether there's actually a job doing that, and how to get there. The other, less good way, would be someone who just tells you to follow your synergies while leveraging your enterprise solutions to find your cheese. Or something to that effect.

So, have a suggestion for Liz? Please share!

photo: Flickr user Hazzat (cc)

Something different for an anniversary day?

Jenn asks via Twitter:

Hey @alloveralbany, I'm planning a date on 6/28 (or 6/30) for my boyfriend's and my 2nd anniversary. Any ideas of something fun and unique?

My goal would be an activity we've never done before or something hands on, but open to any out of the box suggestions!

We live in Colonie, so anywhere within day-trip distance. Otherwise, anything other than dinner and a movie is great! Thanks!

We get the impression Jenn is in some competition with her manfriend to see who can come up with the best anniversary date, so obviously we want to help her win.

The specific dates make this a bit hard to pick things like classes, but we've come up with three ideas -- two easy day trips, and one class -- after the jump.

Have something in mind? Please share!

(there's more)

Recommendations for car transmission repair?

Stephanie emails:

The clutch in my 2001 Corolla recently celebrated its 170k milestone and has decided that it's time to retire. I was wondering if any of your readers had a recommendation for a good transmission shop in the area. I'm located in Troy, so the closer the better, but I'll go wherever I need to for the right service with the right price.

First, Stephanie, let us congratulate you on getting your car to the 170k mark. And, second, let us offer our condolences for its clutch.Transmission repair/replacement can be an expensive job.

Got a suggestion for Stephanie? Please share.

Earlier on AOA:
+ Ask AOA: Where to get a "check engine" light read?
+ Capital Region Recommended Mechanics

Where to buy essential oils?

Kerry emails:

Can you please tell me where I could find a local shop that sells Essential Oils?

The first place that popped into our head (because of a previous post): Honest Weight -- and the co-op lists essential oils among the product lineup in its wellness department.

But there are probably other options around the area, too.

So, have a suggestion for Kerry? Please share!

photo: Flickr user AbdillahAbi (cc)

Where to get a "check engine" light read?

A. asks via Twitter:

Where can I find out what my check engine light is about, without paying through the nose?

This is a good thing to know because:

1) The check engine light can indicate a whole range of problems, some of them serious.

2) Sometimes the problem is a simple as the gas cap not being on tight enough. So if you can get someone to read the problem for a few bucks, you can fix the problem without spending a bunch of money.

Got a suggestion for A.? Please share!

Earlier on AOA: Capital Region Recommended Mechanics

photo: Flickr user @RunRockPrincess (cc)

Plans for severe weather?

Erin emails:

After hearing about the 2 tornadoes that touched down this week and of course Irene, I was wondering if there were any local storm shelters available for use in a bad situation, especially an underground one for tornadoes? I live in 2nd floor apartment in a building with no basement, so if really bad storm were to come through my area I'd be in a bit of a dangerous situation.

With the storms getting worse each year (or so it would seem) I like having a plan in place even if I never need to use it!

Erin is on the right path here in being proactive about planning. With some types of storms -- like a hurricane/tropical storm -- there's usually some advance notice, often days. Other types -- like a tornado -- the notice could be just a few minutes. So knowing what to do ahead of time is important.

Here are a few guides on making a plan/emergency kit: ready.gov | New York State | Red Cross. And here are National Weather Service guides to thunderstorms, tornadoes, and lightning and how to take shelter in various types of buildings during a tornado. (In a building without a basement, it's get to the lowest floor and find a room in the middle of the building, preferably without windows.) Also: a NWS tornado FAQ.

Another resource: NY-Alert, where you can sign up for text alerts for stuff like tornado warnings.

Got local suggestions? Please share.

Earlier on AOA: Watch vs. warning

archive photo: NOAA Photo Library, NOAA Central Library; OAR/ERL/National Severe Storms Laboratory (NSSL)

Consignment shops for kids clothes?

Sean emails:

My wife and I just had a baby and would love to dress the kid in all kinds of ridiculous outfits. However, they grow so dang fast that it just doesn't make sense to spend the cash on something new if they're only going to wear it once or twice. Do you or your readers know of any good consignment shops in the area specifically for kids clothing?

This isn't a shop exactly, but it's something Sean and his wife should definitely check out: the big Pass It On consignment sale for kids stuff, which if tradition holds, will be back in August. There are a handful of other similar sales throughout the year (see the comments on that post).

So, got a suggestion for Sean and his wife? Please share!

Companies for foundation repair?

Jason emails:

Yesterday's friendly almost-tornado helped loosen a hole in my home's foundation, which is now leaking. I wonder if you or the AOA community have any recommendations for people/companies that can do foundation repair work. Since it's work on the foundation, I'm more interested in the repairs being done correctly, rather than cheaply.

Whenever contractor-type questions come up here, Bennett often gets mentioned. But there are plenty of options out there, and we're curious if there are companies that specialize in fixing this sort of problem. (Basements/foundations seem like they could be hard problems to fix.)

So, got a suggestion for Jason? Please share.

Spots for an outdoor party?

Wendy emails:

A question for the AOA crowd: My husband and I are celebrating our 25th anniversary this summer, and are planning an outdoor party/picnic for early August. Saratoga State Park was our first choice location, but nothing suitable is available (our bad for waiting.) We are going to check out Grafton Lakes and Thatcher -- but what are some other options? It doesn't have to be a state park. We'd prefer within 30-45 minutes of Troy, with a pool (or swimming) and a field for other outdoor activities.

It sounds like Wendy is already focused on state parks or similar places -- and if you have a suggestion for one, great. But, as she said, it doesn't have to be one -- and we're also curious if there are maybe some alternatives. The pool might be a complicating factor.

Got a suggestion? Please share!

Ideas for a bachelor party?

Matt emails:

I'm trying to plan a bachelor party that is nutty or unexpected, but not crude. "Suggestive" is okay, but that's not my priority ... wackiness is. In the Capital Region in September. This has not been easy!

Groom is 36, a roller derby player and mild gun enthusiast ... but otherwise generally "button-down."

Any ideas?!

So it sounds like coke-snorting donkeys are probably out. Tigers, too. But "nutty" includes a wide range.

Got a suggestion for Matt? Please share.

photo: Flickr user mfajardo (cc)

Swim lessons for adults?

Says Jona on Twitter:

it's official, I need to learn how to swim #swim. ... I know how to swim to save my life, but not compete. thanks!

There are two types of answers for a "swimming lessons for adults" question:
+ Lessons for basic swimming.
+ Lessons for people who already know how to swim a bit, but want to get better/faster for exercise or so they can compete in events like triathlons. (Sounds like what Jona's looking for.)

Either type of lesson can be hard to find if you're an adult. (Swimming lessons often seem to be geared toward kids.)

So... have a suggestion on either account? Please share!

Swimming season will be here soon.

photo: Flickr user Thomas R. Stegelmann (cc)

Where to get a good steak?

Collins asks via Twitter:

Good Albany steak/filet recommendation? Other than Prime

The "other than Prime" part is a little like asking "What are some traditionally successful baseball teams -- other than the Yankees?" But it's good to get some suggestions beyond the places that get mentioned all the time.

And our quick take on steak: Considering steak is one of those things we don't order often, we tend to avoid filet. You know, if you're going to order a steak, order something with a lot of flavor -- a ribeye, hanger, something like that.

Got a suggestion? Please share.

Earlier on AOA: Ask AOA: The best burgers in the Capital Region? (2010)

photo: Flickr user quinn.anya (cc)

How to get a garden plot tilled?

Laura emails with a timely question:

Can anyone recommend a reliable, reasonable service for rototilling a vegetable garden plot?

If you know of a service, great. But even if you don't, maybe you have some alternate ideas that could help Laura get her garden plot in shape.

Got a suggestion? Please share!

Where to enjoy a beverage on a covered patio?

Lucas emails with a specific outdoor dining/drinking question:

I'm looking for places in Albany where I can enjoy a beverage on a patio; however, because of the inconsistencies of the weather here, I'm looking for places in particular where the patios are covered. What places around town do you suggest?

This reminds us that we really need to update the outdoor dining map. (Like, really.) So your suggestions will help not only Lucas (and others), but also help us update the map.

Got a suggestion? Please share!

Good brunch spots in/near Troy?

After running into a brunch predicament Sunday, Andrew emails:

Do you guys know where to get a good brunch and bloody Mary on a Sunday in Troy?

Just thinking about some of our go-to brunch spots now, we gotta admit that none of them were on the east side of the Hudson.

So, got a suggestion for Andrew? Please share!

Earlier on AOA: A boozy brunch spot? (2010)

Quintessential Albany items?

Samantha messages:

Hi, I've only lived in the Albany area for a couple of years, so I'm not too familiar as to what screams "Albany"! But I need to know!

See, my husband (retired Army), myself and our daughter were based out of Ft. Hood TX, back in '07. While there, my husband and many others deployed. I was fortunate to have a small support group of other medic wives. Among them was a girl named Jay. Jay has a son named Max who is about the same age as my daughter (they were 3 back then). We spent 15 months supporting each other while our husbands were gone. Really she supported me, she was, and definitely is the strongest woman I've ever known.

This is why she is so strong.

It is also why I need to know what amazing Albany swag consists of?

Any suggestion would be greatly appreciated!

Here's the short story from that link: Samantha's friend's son, Max, has a brain tumor. He'd like to visit France, but as you might understand, that's difficult considering the circumstances. So friends of the family are trying to bring Max the world via mail -- postcards and other items.

So Samantha's looking for some fun and very-Albany items she could send Max.

Got a suggestion? Please share!

Driveway sealing/paving recommendation?

Gary emails:

Our driveway is in need of some attention this spring, can you recommend a good sealcoat/paving co. in Albany?

At some point during the summer crews starting moving through neighborhoods, knocking on doors pitching driveway fixing/re-sealing. We gotta admit we're skeptical of the "hey, we just did your neighbor's driveway" pitch (maybe unfairly). So some solid suggestions could be a help to Gary and others.

Got someone you can recommend? Please share!

A quiet restaurant for dinner with parents?

Andrew emails (emphasis added):

My fiancee is moving in with me this weekend and her parents will be meeting my parents for the first time. We're looking to go out to dinner somewhere nice, but noise level is a big concern. My mom is partially deaf so it's really hard for her to hear in a normal restaurant. Any suggestions?

So, this is a big dinner for Andrew and his fiancee.

Got a quiet spot to suggest? Please share!

Weekend trips in the Adirondacks?

Andrea asks via Twitter:

Thinking of a weekend in the Adirondacks for some relaxation and day hikes with the dog. Recs for trails or places to stay?

She's looking to stay overnight, but not outside. And she's also open to the Catskills.

Got a suggestion? Please share!

Earlier on AOA:
+ How to hike the High Peaks and not be That Guy
+ The Wild Center
+ "The birthplace of the American vacation"

BYOB restaurants in the Capital Region?

The Fuj asks via Twitter:

What's the best BYOB restaurant in the Capital Region?

We retweeted last night, and netted a few suggestions. They're after the jump. If you a good place in mind, please share!

(And if you have info about corkage fees, even better.)

(there's more)

Where to get top soil, mulch, gravel?