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An Opinionated Guide To New York's Capital District

Book Cover - The Smalbanac

Some longtime residents think the calling Albany, Smalbany is a cheap shot. Others embrace it. Like our next guest.

With new and updated entries on everything from food, shopping, and the arts to people, history, and places to visit, The Smalbanac 2.0 is a wry, affectionate, and practical guide to New York State’s capital city and surrounding area.

Packed with information, the guide is perfect not only for visitors, new students, and those relocating to the area but also for long-term residents who want to get out of their comfort zones and explore the many hidden and some not-so-hidden treasures the area has to offer.

A local artist and writer, Christine Garretson-Persans has worked at The Albany Heritage Area Visitors Center since 2004. 

Joe talks to people on the radio for a living. In addition to countless impressive human "gets" - he has talked to a lot of Muppets. Joe grew up in Philadelphia, has been on the area airwaves for more than 25 years and currently lives in Washington County, NY with his wife, Kelly, and their dog, Brady. And yes, he reads every single book.