Good morning, Albany.

Yesterday, the Roundtable Panel featured Investment Banker Mark Wittman, Senior Fellow Jim Ketterer, Political Consultant Libby Post and former mayor Kathy Sheehan as they discussed issues impacting Albany.

The daily discussion offered local residents clear insights into pressing topics.

The University at Albany’s Emeritus Center is growing its Albany Lifelong Learning Institute, a program that offered 3 courses with 50 students last spring and expanded to 6 courses and 180 students by fall; it will provide 6 courses this spring + led by Chair Carol Whittaker.

Governor Hochul announced that the Department of Financial Services proposed new 'Buy Now, Pay Later' regulations to protect residents by limiting fees and ensuring clear credit reporting.

The proposals now enter a ten-day preproposal comment period followed by a 60-day public comment period.

Gov. Kathy Hochul's office released a $200 million downtown revitalization plan on Feb.

13 that includes a design to reopen Erie Canal Lock 1 near the Warehouse District; local group Albany Waterway Inc. says the rendering shows state interest while details for linking to SUNY Administration are still in planning.

On Monday, Feb. 23, Dr. Niraj Sharma from Cardinal Spine and Pain Medicine discussed back and neck pain relief and non-surgical treatment options during Medical Monday, hosted by Ray Graf (call 800-348-2551).

UAlbany sports will host three matchups this week: women's lacrosse will play Niagara tomorrow at John Fallon Field for Black History Month, men's basketball will face Maine on Thursday at 6:30 p.m. and New Hampshire on Saturday at 2:00 p.m. during Senior Night (United Way $5 Kids Day observance).

University at Albany soccer players earned America East Weekly Awards on Feb.

23 after a 13-12 overtime win over No. 25 Harvard. Senior goalkeeper Grace Cincebox, junior midfielder Paisley Cook and freshman Riley Forthofer received honors – the team will face Niagara tomorrow at John Fallon Field.

University at Albany men's lacrosse player Silas Richmond was named America East Offensive Player of the Week — he scored seven goals and made six assists in two games.

The Great Danes will face UMass this Saturday at 12:00 p.m. from Garger Field.

The National Field Hockey Coaches Association announced four academic awards from February 11—19, recognizing Division I teams for academic excellence and honoring UAlbany's Great Danes for earning the National Academic Team award five times in the last six seasons.

Award winners include Mathilda Prada, Lillian Willis, Emma Staron, and Jenna Zunic.

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.

Candlelight: A Tribute to Taylor Swift

8:30-9:30 p.m. — UAlbany Performing Arts Center — Tickets available — Experience the enchanting music of Taylor Swift illuminated by candlelight.

Live Music with Luke Palvus

7-10 p.m. — Seven Dining and Catering — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of live music by Luke Palvus at a popular local venue.

1964 The Tribute

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Troy Savings Bank Music Hall — Tickets vary — Experience the most authentic Beatles tribute band as they recreate a live concert from the early '60s.