I'm egregiously behind in writing this, largely because I just want to second most of what was said in response to my original post and here. But here's one idea. This isn't anything new really, just with an organizing principle:
Albany encompasses the best of both worlds. (I originally wrote "middle ground," which, while more accurate, sounded so not exciting enough for a sales pitch.)
--Size: Albany is large enough to have a wide range of neighborhoods and growing retail and a decent bus system and a lot of culture and downtown jobs, but it's also small enough that you get to know people, that both daily living and going out are fairly affordable, and there's a little space to breath.
--Location: Albany's a true city itself, has quick access to great natural areas, both very
nearby (Hudson River, Tivoli Preserve) and in the surrounding area
(Adirondacks, Catskills, Berkshires), and has quick access to several big cities.
--(what to call this item?): Albany is fairly cosmopolitan, tolerant of diversity, and full of activists and intellectuals, and yet it's not pretentious. You don't have to be a fashion plate to feel comfortable walking down the street, nor do you need to drive a Prius with the right bumper stickers. (Someone told me the other day, "I don't feel dirty in Albany. I felt dirty in Ithaca.")
--Livability: Albany has an incredible amount of history, gorgeous views, and great old architecture. Much of the city has a great quality of life while still being affordable.
--Future: Albany is neither a disaster or a "success story." In many ways its future is wide open, and it has a lot of choices and opportunities in front of it.
This, however, is still more list making than getting at the essence of the city, as Sarah talked about in the comments to the last post. I think I'll have to give it another try with that lens. Another day.