Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How did the Mansion neighborhood get its name?
A: Some say from the Governor's Mansion on Eagle Street, but there was also a mansion in the present Cat Hoke park (the upper half of the Philip St. park) that could be the source of the name. And Cat Hoke herself is reputed to have said that Mansion really stands for “More Action Needed for Survival in Our Neighborhood”.

Q: Is it the Mansion neighborhood or the Mansion Hill neighborhood? If it's the Mansion neighborhood, why do so many maps say Mansion Hill?
A: Certain businesses, such as the Mansion Hill Inn and the Mansion Hill Laundromat, include the word “hill”, but the neighborhood is always known as the Mansion neighborhood. Therefore, the Mansion Neighborhood Association (MNA) also omits the word "hill".

Q: Where do I go to vote?
A: We have three different election districts in the neighborhood:
  • First Ward (most of the neighborhood) - Vote in the gym of the Montessori School at Eagle and Park (turn right on Park, take the next right between the two buildings, and enter the door in the back on the right).
  • Second Ward (East side of Grand and beyond) - Vote at the Trinity Institution.
  • Fourth Ward (North side of Madison and beyond) - Vote in the South Mall Towers.

    Q: How do I register to vote?
    A: There are many ways, so take your choice:
  • In person at the Board of Elections.
  • Call Mary Ellen O'Connor, the Democratic ward leader, at 463-3058. She will help you register, even if you are not a Democrat.
  • Online at http://www.albanycounty.com/departments/elections/voterreg.pdf. Here you print the form and mail it in.
  • Another online option is https://ssl.capwiz.com/congressorg/e4/nvra/?language=en&action=form&state=NY.

    Q: Is the governor really a neighbor of ours, or is the mansion used for other purposes?
    A: Past governors have actually lived in the mansion, but Governor Pataki chose not to (maybe to keep his kids in school where they were). The fact that the governor doesn’t use the Mansion is a sore point with many of us in the neighborhood. Tours are available infrequently.

    Q: How can I participate in the community garden?
    A: The Community Gardens are looking for new gardeners. Call 274-8685 or visit the web site below:

    (www.cdcg.org)

    Q: Where can I go for exercise, weight loss, and fitness?
    A: The YMCA has all kinds of great exercise programs. They're located right in the Empire State Plaza, membership is very reasonable, and you can work out a personalized plan with a trainer. Expect to see everyone from hard core weight lifters to substantially overweight people to average folks and even some disabled people in wheelchairs. YMCA - Empire State Plaza, Room 140, Concourse Level, 465-7992.

    Here is another recommendation: There are aerobic/workout classes that meet on Mondays and Wednesdays at Emmanuel Baptist Church at 275 State St. from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm. You can sign up for one night or both nights. There are stretches, followed by weights, and then dance. For more information call Chrissy at 271-1381.




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