Confidential Destination

An empty cart with an intriguing label sits near the Justice Building at the Empire State Plaza.  Actually,  Confidential Destination sounds like a rather good title for a spy film or a mystery novel.

The Morris Diner

Blurred by Saturday's rain, an old sign rests outside the Quintessence Diner as the building is torn down as part of the Albany Medical Center expansion.

Santa Speedo Sprint 2014

Because nothing says "Merry Christmas" and "Happy Holidays" like an inflatable shark and a crowd of cheerful people in colorful underwear running down Lark Street on a cold, wet December afternoon!

The Trolley Tree

Metal leaves dangle from a whimsical tree sculpted from old trolley tracks removed from Delaware Avenue several years ago.  The tree stands behind the Delaware Avenue branch of the Albany Public Library and honors the late city historian, Virginia Bowers.  If you'd like to buy a brick for the memorial, see this post at Albany (NY) History.

Taking Down The Diner

The diner that stood at the corner of New Scotland and Dana Avenues is coming down.  Mostly recently known as Quintessence and, before that, the U.N. Diner, it's being demolished as Albany Medical Center continues is expansion.  There was a little hope that the iconic little building could be saved, either incorporated into the redevelopment of the neighborhood or moved intact, but plans never materialized and crews are taking it down.

A Wreath For The President

A memorial wreath on the grave of President Chester A. Arthur in the Albany Rural Cemetery.  The wreath-laying ceremony is held every year on his birthday.  Considering how much time I spend exploring and researching the Cemetery, I'm embarrassed to admit this is the very first time that I have attended the ceremony.  I won't miss it next year.

The Half Moon

A replica of Henry Hudson's ship unfurled its sails near the Corning Preserve yesterday as part of "Early Albany - A Hudson River Festival."  It was an excellent event featuring Dutch Colonial and Native American culture, including blacksmiths, a drum circle, dancing, and other exhibits.  Attendance was very good and it proves that local history and heritage can indeed be an attraction.