Good morning, Albany.

Jack's Oyster House in Albany hosted an event that honored 50 couples married for over 50 years as part of its grand reopening, with live music and a vow renewal officiated by Mayor Dorcey Applyrs to show that seniors are cherished.

Colonie reopened its Pocket Park ice rink after 20 years using new cooling tech.

Supervisor Peter Crummey said the 30-day trial run ahead of Presidents’ Day offers skating Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 6 p.m. (lessons not provided).

The Lift Concert Series at Troy Savings Bank Music Hall will feature new independent music by regional performers on Feb.

18. Curated by S and S Presents with local artists Sam Torres and Sophia Subbayya Vastek (letting audiences sit on stage with the performers), the event offers a unique experience.

A substitute teacher at O’Rourke Middle School was removed from the district’s list after allegedly making a racially insensitive remark in an English class, district officials said.

The principal met with the grade eight class Thursday morning and notified parents about the incident.

Kindergarten students in Elsmere are excited as their pen pal, Olympic bobsledder Frankie Del Duca, explains how forces and motion work in bobsledding through emails and class visits.

Teacher Nancy Davis and fifth-grade reading buddies use the project to connect science lessons with the Winter Olympics.

Union College is cutting costs by laying off 40 dining staff and offering early retirement to employees who are 60 or older with 10+ years service after missing enrollment goals.

The college uses its $600 million endowment to cover budget gaps caused by smaller classes.

Federal action to revoke the EPA’s 2009 endangerment finding raised concerns among environmental groups who urged New York to strengthen its clean energy measures.

Local officials emphasized that state climate laws remain in effect despite the administration’s move (citing potential health risks).

Albany County leaders premiered a video featuring actor Dennis Quaid last night.

Capital Region Bureau Chief Jesse Taylor discussed the feature on Midday Magazine with host Lucas Willard.

Albany Police Chief Brendan Cox says downtown is safe despite public misperceptions from visible disorder and gaps in mental health services.

He plans to boost online crime data access and work with city stakeholders to enhance re-entry support (addressing unstable housing and remote work challenges).

Governor Hochul unveiled a Downtown Albany plan to boost housing, create 3,000 jobs, and support small businesses with $200 million in state funds as part of a $400 million initiative.

Developed with input from residents and business owners, the plan sets growth targets to revitalize the city center.

Rockefeller College graduate Sean Millington was named mayoral fellow to lead an advisory council on nightlife economy and expand Albany's appeal to young people.

He will work with business leaders, community members and local universities to draft actionable recommendations (a first for the city).

Chef Ric Orlando shared ideas for making Valentine's Day meals delicious on Food Friday with WAMC—hosted by Ray Graf—yesterday at 2 p.m.; local listeners called in to join the conversation on fresh recipe tips and seasonal flavors.

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.

Turn It Up Dance Challenge

March 13-15 — Palace Theatre — Registration open — Enjoy a thrilling weekend of regional dance competitions with awards and scholarships.

Capital District Wind Challenge

8:30 AM – 2:30 PM — Sand Creek Middle School — School team participation — Experience the excitement of student-designed wind turbines in a competitive setting.

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus

12-3 p.m. — MVP Arena — Tickets available — Experience the thrill of the circus with world-class performances and family-friendly entertainment.