Shannon Fromma

Albany

Journalist and Columnist, Shopportunist at Times Union (Albany)

Cents-ible ways to save in the Capital Region, from coupons and dining deals to shopping tricks and expert tips.

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Articles

Thoughtful, budget-friendly Father’s Day gift ideas for every type

3 weeks ago | timesunion.com | Shannon Fromma

Father’s Day is just over a week away, and if you’re still stuck choosing between another tie or yet another baseball cap, hit pause. I’ve pulled together a list of creative gift ideas that can trump those tired, traditional gifts. They’re thoughtful, budget-friendly, and pack way more meaning than the standard store-bought fare. The best part? Most of these options show dad some real appreciation — without draining your wallet.
The high-wire act of buying, selling a home at the same time

3 weeks ago | timesunion.com | Shannon Fromma

For many homeowners, the dream of upgrading to a bigger house, or downsizing to something smaller, comes with a logistical puzzle: buying and selling a home at the same time. It’s a delicate balancing act that, while common, can be fraught with financial strain, timing snafus and sky-high stress levels.
House of the Week: Averill Park farmhouse built by RPI founder

3 weeks ago | timesunion.com | Shannon Fromma

This week’s selection is a classic farmhouse with steep historical roots. Located at 91 Vosburgh Road, minutes from Averill Park and West Sand Lake, this 1,800-square-foot home was built in 1794 by Stephen Van Rensselaer, founder of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and one of the more influential figures in early New York State history. Set on a gently sloping one-acre lot, the three-bedroom, one-and-a-half-bath home blends 18th-century craftsmanship with comfortable, livable updates.
Troy Rehabilitation and Improvement Program hosts Take a Sip for TRIP

3 weeks ago | timesunion.com | Shannon Fromma

TROY — The Troy Rehabilitation and Improvement Program (TRIP) will host Take a Sip for TRIP, a fundraising event from 5:30 to 8; 30 p.m. Thursday at Ryan’s Wake in Troy. Founded over 55 years ago, TRIP works to revitalize communities and connect residents to housing resources. The evening will feature local and New York state wines, craft beers, spirits and non-alcoholic beverages, with proceeds supporting TRIP’s mission to strengthen neighborhoods and expand access to affordable housing in Troy.
Master Gardeners host Garden Education Fair in Voorheesville

3 weeks ago | timesunion.com | Shannon Fromma

VOORHEESVILLE — The Master Gardener program at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Albany County is hosting its annual Garden Education Fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. today at the organization's headquarters, 24 Martin Road. The event will be held rain or shine and is free to attend. Highlights include a native plant sale, free soil pH testing (one free test per household, $3 for each additional sample), CCE garden and compost tours and a tool sharpening demonstration.
What to buy (and skip) when shopping in June

3 weeks ago | timesunion.com | Shannon Fromma

As summer kicks into gear, June offers a mix of smart splurges and purchases best left for later. From seasonal sales on swimwear to timely deals for Father’s Day, here’s your guide to what’s worth buying this month — and what can wait — courtesy of NerdWallet.com. Buy: SwimwearNow’s the time to refresh your swimwear drawer. Retailers often mark down swimsuits in early summer, before peak demand hits.
Historic Tudor Estate built by GE executive for sale in Niskayuna

1 month ago | timesunion.com | Shannon Fromma

A luxurious Tudor-style estate built for the former CFO of the General Electric Company, H.W. Darling, is this week’s selection. Built in 1908 and nestled on a 1.2-acre plot, the historic Hillcroft property at 1100 Nott St. showcases a timeless architectural design, featuring hand-carved details throughout, period wallpaper, stained glass windows, pocket doors, mosaic tile, coffered ceilings and brass hardware. The six-bedroom, four-bathroom revival home offers 4,600 square feet of living space.
David’s Bridal to host sample sale with gowns starting at $10

1 month ago | timesunion.com | Shannon Fromma

COLONIE — David’s Bridal will host a nationwide sample sale starting today through May 30. Select locations, including 1440 Central Ave. in Colonie, will offer deep discounts on bridal gowns, with most priced under $100, and some priced as low as $25. Bridesmaid, special occasion, junior, and mother-of-the-bride dresses will range from $10 to $30. Article continues below this adThe Colonie store is open 10:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday through Friday.
Housing market update for April 2025 in New York's Capital Region

1 month ago | timesunion.com | Shannon Fromma

The Capital Region housing market is showing renewed momentum at the start of this spring, with pending home sales rising nearly 6% in April. Statewide, pending sales also edged up by 1% year-over-year — from 9,471 in April 2024 to 9,565 in April 2025 — according to the New York State Association of Realtors (NYSAR). New listings followed a similar trend. Across New York state, new home listings climbed 5.6%, from 13,246 to 13,989 year-over-year.
Mechanicville real estate broker arrested in alleged fraud scheme

1 month ago | timesunion.com | Shannon Fromma

MECHANICVILLE — A local real estate broker has been arrested following an investigation into an alleged property fraud scheme involving a Halfmoon business. Jean C. Maloney, 64, was taken into custody by New York State Police on May 14. She faces multiple felony charges, including second-degree forgery, second-degree criminal possession of a forged instrument, first-degree identity theft and first-degree falsifying business records.