Who Remembers Albany Public Market? [PHOTOS/VIDEO]

I remember it was the go-to shopping spot for my family in the early 80's. Growing up in Clifton Park at that time, Albany Public was located in the plaza at the corner of Route 146 and 146A in the spot that later became a Toys For Joy, a gym, and eventually Northway Church. It now sits vacant.

There were many other locations at the time, including what is now the OTB Teletheater on Central Avenue and their flagship location at Westgate Plaza. It was a thriving grocery store chain that began in the 1930's and went into the 1980's. A fifty year run is pretty decent by any standards.

In the 1980's, Price Chopper and Grand Union began to expand in the Capital Region, later Shop N Save (now Hannaford) would set up its footprint in the area. Albany Public began to decline. It lasted until the mid 80's.

On a personal note, when I was four years old I stole a pack of gum from the Clifton Park Albany Public. My mom found out and drove me back to the store where I had to confess to the cashier and pay for it. Damn, that'll teach ya some humility.

Of course, compared to today, grocery prices were pennies on the dollar. Literally. Especially with the inflation we see now. Often we flash back to simpler times wondering how much was a gallon of milk or a bag of potatoes. Well, this 1982 TV ad from Albany Public gives us a glimpse into the past. And also has our chance to win a winter trip to New York City.

Check out some of the sales they were having in 1982. Also, enjoy the commercial with their catchy jingle below.