Good morning, Albany.

Construction will begin soon in Guilderland on a new Costco near Crossgates Mall at the intersection of Western Avenue and Crossgates Mall Road, with homes and trees set to be removed for the project—while the store is expected to be finished by year's end and a new NY Oncology and Hematology Treatment Center will open at the end of 2026.

28-year-old Atikur Razzaque (from Ozone Park) was sentenced to 15 months in prison today for alien smuggling and conspiracy after admitting (on September 21st, 2024) that he smuggled three Bangladeshi citizens near Westville and previously smuggled other aliens.

State Police are renewing efforts on the cold case of 22-year-old cook Willie Woolheater—who left Albany in February 1981 while traveling to New Orleans for Mardi Gras and last called his mother—since he has been missing for over 42 years.

Justin Wagner, a 26-year-old from Schenectady, admitted to shooting a man in Halfmoon last January over a personal dispute and will be sentenced on July 15—he built the AR-15 used, the victim survived, and he faces 16 years in prison and 2 ½ years of post-release supervision.

Executive Director Diane Eber announced that The Egg in Albany will temporarily close for major renovations after hosting two final 'Last Hurrah' shows — events she will preview before the construction begins.

Albany's New York State Museum will host its popular Women of Science event on March 22 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.—marking its first occurrence since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Families can explore interactive displays and hands-on activities that honor the contributions of female scientists during Women's History Month.

Governor Kathy Hochul made an affordable housing announcement in Albany on Tuesday, March 18.

No further details were provided at the event.

Albany County launched a firefighter recruitment program yesterday to address a shortage as warmer, drier spring weather raises wildfire risks—County Executive Dan McCoy said the program will include a 40-hour New York State Basic Exterior Fire Operations course with certification and the first Service Academy class will begin on April 1. Berne District Chief Jason Smith said the new training will help residents learn ways to prevent fire damage.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced a $4 million expansion of the state loan repayment program for mental health workers serving children and teens, which will offer at least 400 awards of up to $30,000 for a three-year work commitment at eligible community programs.

The initiative is run by the state Office of Mental Health and the Office of Children and Family Services and is part of the larger mental health investment plan.

Julie McBride, a former basketball star and Mechanicville native, is now the head coach at Hoosac School where she trains the next generation of female athletes—she chose coaching over a 16th overseas season to pass on her experience in honor of Women’s History Month.

TR3 featuring Tim Reynolds Concert

Experience an evening of live music with TR3 featuring Tim Reynolds at Lark Hall in Albany.

Candlelight Concert: A Tribute to Coldplay

Experience a live, multi-sensory tribute to the music of Coldplay performed by a string quartet under candlelight in an awe-inspiring setting.

Digital Music Bingo Night

Experience an interactive evening of music bingo featuring classic hits across four categories, hosted at The Gateway Diner.

Pine Hills Neighborhood Specialist Office Hours

The City of Albany's Department of Neighborhood Services invites residents to meet with Neighborhood Specialist Alex Word for discussions on community needs.

Capital Region Flower & Garden Expo

10 AM – 5 PM — Hudson Valley Community College — Entrance fee applies — Celebrate spring with stunning floral displays and informative gardening seminars.

School House Rock Live!

7:30 PM – 10:30 PM — Cohoes Music Hall — Open to the public — Experience beloved educational tunes from a classic cartoon brought to life on stage.

Albany 1st Friday Swing Dance

7-10:30 p.m. — Elks Lodge #49 — $20 General, $15 Student, 65+ Senior, DFO Member — Enjoy a swing dance lesson followed by social dancing to live music.

Reena Esmail + Boléro Featuring Albany Symphony

7:30-9:30 PM — Palace Theatre — Cost info not provided — Experience Ravel's Boléro and Esmail's Hindustani Violin Concerto in this vibrant concert with pre-show insights.

Lived In Hair & Content Creation by Adina

10 AM – 3 PM — Slek Salon — Registration fee applies — Elevate your styling skills and social media presence with hands-on training and proven techniques.

Best Companies to Work For in New York

5-9 p.m. — Hilton Albany — Celebrate the top employers in New York who create enjoyable workplaces.