Good morning, Albany.

At Schenectady’s C.O.C.O.A House, a 12-by-8-foot mural was unveiled Saturday to honor Walter Simpkins, the founder of Community Fathers Inc. who helped save lives — the portrait by Eugene O’Neill shows him against a galaxy backdrop as a lasting tribute to community spirit.

Dorset Equine Rescue, a farm run entirely on donations, helped four horses recover after they were rescued from a Rensselaer County property, while New York State Police continued investigating the horses’ former owner.

Troy honored the late honorary fire captain George Boone by dedicating a street sign with his name, installed across from his former home on Grand Street (a location cherished by neighbors).

Community members recall Boone's supportive presence and local leaders note his lasting impact.

During WAMC’s February Fund Drive on Wednesday, Feb.

4, panelists (including Ulster County Comptroller March Gallagher, grants analyst Emily Honen, and Senior Fellow Robert Pondiscio) led a brief open discussion on current issues in the news and beyond.

UAlbany received $1.5 million in federal funding on Feb.

4 to upgrade its Innovation Lab at the Albany NanoTech Complex for semiconductor research – new tools will help measure and package nanoscale devices while boosting student training and industry ties.

Bethlehem residents approved a $60M school renovation project on Tuesday; the vote received 1,450 yes votes (352 no) and will improve more than 50 classrooms, add air conditioning, and update safety systems at seven schools.

Albany saw 13 straight days of sub-freezing temperatures, its longest streak since January 2018, and if the forecast holds, the cold stretch will extend to 20 days by next Wednesday.

Albany County marks its 14th year of the Go Red for Women campaign as it urges residents to wear red to boost heart health — 7-year-old Jocelynn Busch, designer of the county bag, will be honored as Heart Hero at the Capital Region Heart Walk and Run on Friday, Feb.

6.

On Tuesday, state health officials met with staff at the 875 Central Ave office to address air quality concerns (employees reported health issues and unclear test results) and revealed plans to relocate to Latham by year’s end, although a lease has not yet been signed.

Jack's Oyster House reopened on State Street after a three-year closure with a new team and a $1 oyster promotion from 4 to 5:30 p.m.—yet some dishes were inconsistent as planned renovations were pushed to summer 2027.

The University at Albany football program announced a new class of 38 Great Danes (20 transfers and 18 freshmen) for the 2026 season.

The team will start their home schedule with a primetime opener on Aug. 28 at Tom & Mary Casey Stadium.

Hilltop with Raisinhead

8-11 p.m. — Lark Hall — Ages 21+ — Experience an exceptional evening of music with Albany's best funk bands Hilltop and Raisinhead.

Valentines Day with Hollywood Herb

6-8 p.m. — Lark Hall — Free entry — Celebrate Valentines Day with guitar virtuoso Hollywood Herb as he brings his eclectic music talents to the stage.

Girl's NYSPHSSA State Championships

12:00–4:00 a.m. — MVP Arena — Ticket prices vary — Witness top high school athletic talent compete for state titles.

We Sing, We Speak, We Rise — Soulful: A Broadway Showcase

7-9 p.m. — Capital Repertory Theatre — Ticket prices may apply — Experience local talent performing beloved Broadway tunes in a unique style.

Joythief Concert

7-9 p.m. — Empire Underground — Tickets available — Experience the evocative music of Joythief with their poignant lyrics and engaging performances.