Good morning, Albany.

Dr. Mussarat Chaudhry, a founding member of the Islamic Center of the Capital District (ICCD), reflected on nearly 50 years of the center’s growth from a modest prayer space to a vibrant hub that now includes an Islamic school and local interfaith initiatives.

NewsChannel 13 salutes veteran Ted Koniowka from Green Island for serving 2 years in the Army + 22 years in the Naval Reserves, including earning the Good Conduct Medal.

7 Brew is set to open a coffee stand at 533 North Greenbush Road in Rensselaer this summer (bringing 50 new jobs) as the drive-thru brand expands locally.

UAlbany will hold a four-day commencement series beginning May 14 with nearly 4,900 graduates set to receive their degrees across multiple ceremonies; the undergraduate event is on May 16 (11 a.m. on the Uptown Campus Entry Plaza lawn) and Albany Mayor Dorcey Applyrs will deliver the keynote address.

Five UAlbany faculty received Distinguished Professorships from SUNY to honor their top research and teaching.

A ceremony is scheduled for August to recognize Jeanette Altarriba, Youqin Huang, Melinda Larsen, Shao Lin, and Juan Andrés Melendez (all praised for significant contributions).

Freshman Sophie Breunig brightens UAlbany with her signature pink style as she duels in heavy armor fights with the Living History Club + explores geography and GIS projects; she will work at a local preschool this summer and attend Pennsic, a medieval reenactment event.

Homeowners are receiving misleading letters charging over $100 for property records that can be obtained free through county clerk offices, and one first-time homeowner noted a mix-up with her address (raising concerns about potential confusion); Rensselaer County Clerk advises residents to disregard the mailings and access records directly.

Dr. James McDonald, state health commissioner, said New Yorkers face no risk from hantavirus today even though 17 cruise ship passengers are linked to the concern — about half are quarantining in other states while officials emphasize core public health skills and accurate information.

4i's & Friends Vol II: 4i's SEXTET

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Van Dyck Music Club — Student tickets available — Experience an exciting jazz evening with the dynamic 4i's SEXTET performing standards and deep cuts.

Mindful Strides Walk for Neurodiversity & Mental Health Awareness

9 a.m. - 12 p.m. — Crossgates Mall — Free entry — A Star Wars-themed walk promoting neurodiversity and mental health awareness through physical activity.

Capital District Reptile Expo - Spring 2026

10 AM - 4 PM — Albany Capital Center — $12 adults, $6 children — Explore over 180 vendor tables of exotic pets and enjoy hands-on education with experts.

Alpha Wolf Concert

6-8:30 p.m. — Empire Live — Tickets starting at $22 — Experience the unforgettable live performance of Alpha Wolf in Albany.

Shemekia Copeland Live

8:00-10:00 p.m. — The Egg — Tickets available — Experience the powerhouse voice of Shemekia Copeland as she performs songs from her acclaimed album 'Blame It On Eve'.

French Montana Concert

8-9:30 p.m. — Palace Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the electrifying performance of French Montana live at the iconic Palace Theatre.

The 502s Concert

8:00–9:30 p.m. — Empire Live — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a lively performance by The 502s in Albany's vibrant music scene.

Anberlin Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Empire Live — 16+ with valid photo ID required — Experience a night of emotional melodies and powerful performances by Anberlin.

The Artis(t) Comedy Showcase

8-9 p.m. — The Local 217 Taproom & Kitchen — Free entry — Enjoy a night of laughter with some of the funniest local comedians.

Sesame Street Live!

2-11:59 p.m. — Palace Theatre Albany — Ticket prices vary — Experience a magical adventure with beloved Sesame Street characters in a delightful family show.