Items tagged with 'shopping'
Not-so-wild salmon, and other supermarket fish stories as detailed by the state Attorney General
More than one-in-four fish samples from supermarket chains around the state that were collected in a state Attorney General's office investigation tested as a variety of fish different from what they were being marketed as. That's from a report that the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) released Friday titled... "Fishy Business."
(Go on, insert your own fish pun or dad joke here.)
Investigators bought fish from 29 supermarket brands (155 locations) around the state and had it DNA tested. From the findings:
While mislabeling affected virtually every tested seafood category, there was rampant mislabeling of certain species. The results suggest that consumers who buy lemon sole, red snapper, and grouper are more likely to receive an entirely different fish. Similarly, consumers who bought what was advertised as "wild" salmon often actually received farm-raised salmon instead. Such consumers had often paid more money--on average 34% more--to avoid farm raised fish.
The substitutes were typically cheaper, less desirable species than the desired species. Snappers sold as red snapper, for example, tended to sell for half as much when properly labeled as another type of snapper. Some substitutes (e.g., lane snapper), had higher mercury levels or came from less sustainable fisheries than the desired species, raising consumer safety and environmental sustainability issues.
Environmental groups and advocacy orgs have been raising this issue going back five years or more. OAG says it believes this is the "first major government investigation in the U.S. to target seafood fraud at retail supermarket chains."
The report highlights that a large majority of the samples that tested as mis-labeled were bought at supermarkets downstate. And it provides a listing of all the supermarkets from which samples were purchased.
Here in the immediate Capital Region, the investigation included 32 samples from six chains: Fresh Market, Hannaford, Price Chopper/Market 32, Price Rite, and Walmart. None of those samples tested as mis-labeled. And the report singles out Hannaford for following some of the best practices in ensuring that the fish being sold is actually the fish being sold (pdf p. 25).
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.
Capital Region holiday markets 2018
The Basilica Farm + Flea holiday market returns the weekend after Thanksgiving. / photo via Basilica Hudson
The unofficial holiday shopping season officially starts up Friday. (Or so they say.)
If you're looking for something a little bit different -- craftier, handmade, more independent, fair trade -- there are a bunch of local holiday markets around the region.
And here's a big list for this year...
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.
Queen Size Swap fall 2018
The semin-annual Queen Size Swap returns to The Hangar in Troy this Sunday, October 21.
It's a clothing swap. About blurbage:
Queen Size Swap is a plus size clothing swap for folks in and around the 518. They are the perfect reason to clean out your closest and get rid of those clothes you no longer wear while going home with some great new-to-you items! QSS include sizes 10/12 and up. Clothing to swap should be clean with no rips or stains. All seasons welcome! Accessories also accepted and shoes of any size! ...
Queen Size Swaps are body and size-positive event! All genders welcome. The events are handicap friendly and 100% accessible. ...
The remaining clothing and shoes from events are donated to the Interfaith for the Homeless clothing pantry.
Here's how the swap works. It's not person to person -- items go on tables and then people take what they want, first come, first serve.
The swap is Sunday from 11 am to 2 pm. Admission is $10 ahead / $15 at the door.
photo via Queen Size Swap
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!
At the new Zebra Bras in Troy, the measuring tape is a 3D scan
If you are a bra-wearer, you already know the struggle to find the right size bra.
Standard sizing does a poor job of accommodating non-standardized bodies, and misinformation is rampant. Many women don't know what a properly-fitting bra is even supposed to feel like, and uninformed employees at mall stores often measure incorrectly.
But maybe all of that will soon be a thing of the past.
Sure, custom bras have been around for a while, if you're willing to spend enough cash. But recent innovations in 3D scanning and printing have the potential to eliminate issues with fit.
Zebra Bras is a new business in downtown Troy that uses 3D printing and scanning to create bras that are customized to your body. I talked with owner Hannah Johnson about how it works...
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 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.
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.
About buying a fresh-cut Christmas tree...
We got a question from Nate about locally-owned tree farms in the Capital Region. It's getting a little late in the season, but we figured we'd recycle some still-useful info:
+ Here's a handful of cut-your-own tree farms around the area. (Some of the specific details won't still apply, but the farms are still in operation.)
+ The Christmas Tree Farmers Association of New York has a good find-a-tree-farm map on its website. You can plug in a ZIP code and radius within you'd like to search. The results include contact info and links for the farms, along with a few other details.
Upstate New York-themed shop on Threadless
If you're looking for holiday gifts (or, you know, just want a t-shirt): There's a new upstate-themed shop on Threadless, and currently includes nine designs from designers around the New York State. The shop is a collaboration with AIGA Upstate New York.
We liked the design above -- "Upstate Icons" -- by Danielle Podeszek, a designer in Buffalo. It's $20 for a t-shirt / $17 for a tote bag.
(We have to admit to Binghamton icon didn't immediately register for us. Apparently Binghamton is the "Carousel Capital of the World".)
Capital Region holiday markets 2017
Babes in Troyland returns to Takk House in December.
Updated
The unofficial official holiday shopping season starts up Friday.
If you're looking for something a little bit different -- craftier, handmade, more independent, fair trade -- there are a bunch of local holiday markets around the region.
And here's a big list of 'em for this year...
The Colonie Center Sears is closing
The Sears at Colonie Center is closing this mid-September, the company said in a statement Thursday. the store will remain open until then and a liquidation sale will start June 30. Eligible employees will receive severance and be given the opportunity to apply at other Sears and KMart stores. The full statement is below.
The Colonie Center closure was one of the 20 this week. A Sears spokesman says the stores at the Wilton Mall and Aviation Mall in Queensbury will continue operating. [Business Insider]
The move isn't surprising.
The Fort Orange General Store is re-opening
The exterior of the shop's new space on Broadway.
The Fort Orange General Store is returning, with a new owner and a new location in downtown Albany.
The new owner is Schuyler Bull. And the new location is a street-level space at 412 Broadway -- the Argus Building -- across from the SUNY administration plaza. He's aiming for a soft opening in mid May.
Pass It On Sale spring 2017
The popular Pass It On Sale for kids items returns to the SportsPlex of Halfmoon May 5-7.
The consignment sale -- now in its 15th year -- is a twice-yearly event. And it's big. The sale boasts that it has 80,000 "new and gently worn" children's items across 60,000 square feet. What sorts of items? Blurbage:
At Pass It On you will find clothing (sizes newborn to juniors) toys, books, videos, baby equipment (strollers, swings, etc.), sports equipment, children's furniture and more! Clothing is inspected to ensure the highest quality and our sales floor is extremely organized for the best shopping experience.
The sale is open to the public Saturday, May 6 from 8 am-8 pm and Sunday (half-price day) from 8 am-2 pm. Admission is free.
There's also an early session for new parents that Friday evening -- you have to sign-up for that specifically. (If that's full, keep an eye out for it on the Pass It On Facebook page in the fall. The new-parent registration usually opens about a month-and-a-half before the sale.)
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!
The "INclosed" place to shop
Colonie Center is celebrating its 50th anniversary this Saturday afternoon. It first opened in November of 1966.
The shopping center -- the Capital Region's first enclosed mall -- was built on the site of the former Colonie Country Club along Wolf Road. The mall posted the above construction photo on its Facebook page today. It's kind of amazing comparing the scene there in the mid 60s with how it looks today. (The population of the town of Colonie grew from almost 30,000 in 1950 to almost 70,000 in 1970.)
An interesting bit about the origin of Colonie Center is that it was built by a subsidiary of Sears Roebuck and Co. The ownership of the mall has since changed hands multiple times, but Sears still owns the chunk of the mall which its store occupies. (You might remember that fact came up when the Colonie Center Whole Foods was announced.)
Reading through a Schenectady Gazette article about the mall's opening, and the Sears subsidiary's involvement, this part caught our eye:
A distinctive feature of each Homart center is the attention given to meshing the center with the mood and tempo of the specific community to be served. ... At Colonie, the country-club atmosphere has been retained with much of the architectural accent upon conveying the urban mood which is inspired by the booming growth of the Great Northeast.
It's country clubby -- but, you know, with an urban mood.
The early ads played up both the country club angle and the fact that mall was fully enclosed -- er, "INclosed." Check out this grand opening ad that ran in the Gazette...
A peek inside the new RAD Soap Co. store at Stuyvesant Plaza
We had a few minutes Monday to stop into the new RAD Soap Co. store at Stuyvesant Plaza.
It's the first permanent retail location for the local company, which started in Cohoes and now produces its soaps, creams, and other personal care items in Menands. Up to this point RAD products has been available local farmers' markets (such as Troy and Schenectady), in various retail locations, and online.
The Stuyvesant Plaza shop, in the storefront previously occupied by the Sorelle Gallery, opened November 18. Its hours are Monday-Friday 10 am-9 pm, Saturday 10 am-8 pm, and Sunday 11 am-6 pm.
Here's a handful of pics from the new store...
Holiday markets 2016
The popular Basilica Farm + Flea is back in Hudson this year.
The unofficial official holiday shopping season starts up later this week.
And if you're looking for something a little bit different -- craftier, handmade, more independent, fair trade -- there are a handful of local holiday markets around the region.
And here's a list for 2016...
Supermarket Showdown 2016
New list, new stores.
It's back: Supermarket Showdown, in which check prices for a basket of 40 items across multiple supermarkets here in the Capital Region.
The showdown has taken a few years off -- the last time we did it was in 2012 -- and this year it returns with a new basket and three new stores.
Without further ado, let's get to it...
Giving ALDI a try
The haul from Deanna's ALDI trip.
I find that I am often a bit naive about how Americans truly eat at home, regardless of the fact that I make a living from writing about food. I eat out a lot and I when I cook at home, it either leans towards the clean, healthy side (to counteract all the eating out) or it turns into a production somehow related to a story.
That's not to say I live in a vacuum, but I realize that sometimes my grasp of what the typical grocery run looks like it a bit slippery.
Lately, I've noticed plenty of friends, acquaintances, and colleagues talking about ALDI, the low-priced chain of grocery stores with European roots that's rapidly expanding. (According to the US ALDI website, the supermarket will have 2,000 US-based stores by 2018.)
I remember shopping at LDI with my Aunt Laura and her kids growing up. It was the first stop on the bi-weekly shopping trip, followed by Tops, Grand Union, and Price Chopper if absolutely necessary. The generic-looking packaging under ALDI private labels, the fact that you had to bring your own bags, and the way the entire system worked always gave me the impression that ALDI was low-quality.
Now, some of my favorite food enthusiasts shop there... and they won't settle for subpar. So there's got to be something worth checking out.
So I did.
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!
The Empire Crate
Filed under potential gift ideas: The Empire Crate, a service that sends out a pre-selected box of New York State products each month. The boxes include "An assortment of 5-7 delicious hand-selected food products from cities and towns across the great state of New York." More blurbage:
The diversity of our home state is truly exceptional-- the Adirondack State Park itself is larger than the neighboring state of Massachusetts. From Niagara Falls to Wall Street and from Brooklyn to Buffalo, The Empire State is teeming with talented, motivated artisans creating a wide range of unique, high-quality products that proudly represent that diversity.
Our mission is to travel the 54,000 square miles of New York State meeting these artisans, trying their products and delivering the cream of the crop to you, our subscribers, every month. Whether you're missing "home" or want to see what else The Empire State has to offer, we welcome you to join us on this delicious journey of discovery!
The people behind Empire Crate are Brianne and Brandon Dingeman, who live in Stillwater. Over at the Daily Gazette, Stephen Williams has a profile of them and the service.
One box is $39.95 (delivery included). There are also multi-month prepay options that offer a discount.
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.
... said KGB about Drawing: What's something that brought you joy this year?