Good morning, Albany.

Albany deli owner Keith Mahler said he worries more delis will close downtown if foot traffic does not pick up after two popular shops shut their doors, and he remains determined to keep Maurice's Deli open.

The New York State Restaurant Association honored local restaurants and catering companies at its 4th annual Spotlight on Excellence awards.

Coray Kitchen in Delmar was named Favorite Restaurant for the Eastern Region and Nicole’s Catering in Albany was recognized for its social media presence.

Barnes & Noble will open an 18,000 sqft store at Crossgates Mall this fall (located on the upper level across from REI Co-op) that will offer books, toys, games and a B&N Cafe.

UAlbany teams with the local school district to launch a college acceptance program for students with a 90 GPA and Algebra II (at least a C).

The initiative gives high school seniors early access to university resources as they prepare for higher education.

SCIM, a program for new managers, is relaunching in 2025 with two six week tracks & enrollment for the March session is now open.

Developed by the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce and Empire State University, the program offers essential skills and strategies for today’s dynamic workplace.

New York surveys found that low numbers of juvenile striped bass along the Hudson and Chesapeake Bay signal a potential drop in catchable adults by the 2030s+ the Department of Environmental Conservation is meeting with interstate partners to plan updated management.

Col. Jason Lefton of Niskayuna assumed command of 5,100 soldiers at Camp Smith Training Site + Cortland Manor on Feb.

9, replacing Brig. Gen. Isabel Smith, with Major Gen. Raymond Shields leading the change-of-command ceremony. He now directs several units statewide.

Dr. Christopher Rokkas, chief of cardiac surgery at St. Peter’s Hospital, discussed complex heart and aortic surgeries yesterday at Medical Monday hosted by Ray Graf.

The event highlighted treatment options for Marfan’s Syndrome and related aortic diseases.

UAlbany women’s lacrosse launches its 2026 season today at Holy Cross under coach Katie Thomson with 25 returning players from last year’s championship squad.

The season features matchups against ranked teams, including Harvard and Syracuse (schedule details available).

UAlbany athletic programs will host events this Saturday, Feb.

14 with the men's lacrosse season opener at noon against #4 Cornell at Bob Ford Field (Tom Mary Casey Stadium) and the women's basketball team hosting its Pink Game.

UAlbany women’s basketball freshman Amaya Stewart earned the America East Rookie of the Week honor Monday.

She averaged 15 points and 5 rebounds in recent games and scored 23 in a career-high effort at UMass Lowell ahead of the upcoming game against Binghamton on Saturday, Feb. 14 at Broadview Center.

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.

Candlelight Concert: 90s Unplugged

8:30-9:30 p.m. — The Egg — Ticket prices vary — Experience a magical evening of 90s classics performed by a string quartet under the soft glow of candlelight.