This is a relatively new business in town, located in the same building as the post office. I have passed by often, and made a mental note to contact them the next time I needed framing services, which is fairly frequently. Earlier this week, I called this business and asked some questions about framing and "museum glass", i.e., glass which protects the artwork from fading due to light. Specifically, I asked if 1) there was a way of telling if what I had was, indeed, museum glass, and 2) if not, could they simply replace the glass for me. The employee I spoke with indicated that she probably could NOT tell by looking at it, but that her boss, who had "just left 5 minutes ago" probably could. The time was mid-morning, yet she indicated that he would not be back that day. She invited me to bring the piece in, and he would look at it the next day. I told her I needed to go to the post office in a couple of hours, and I would stop in. The hours posted on their door say that they are open 9:30-6:30 on weekdays (this was a weekday). I drove from Poughkeepsie to Fishkill, arriving at 1:15 PM, to find a locked door. There was a note on the door stating "will return at 2PM; if you need IMMEDIATE (emphasis mine) assistance, call...." followed by a phone number. I called the number, and my call was routed to voice mail. HOW, I wondered, was that going to provide me with immediate assistance? I left a short message expressing my displeasure and went on my way. The next day, the employee did call and leave me a message apologizing, stating that she was at lunch and the ringer was off on her phone. How do you operate a business with posted hours of 9:30 to 6:30, and no mention of being closed for lunch, yet be closed from 1:15 until 2:00? In my opinion, this is irresponsible behavior, and certainly does not indicate an interest in establishing a good reputation for a new business. Apology notwithstanding, there is no way I would leave a $4,500 piece of art with any business that has such casual practices. Your experience may vary, but I will not be returning; I will find someplace that already has an established reputation for good business. read more
