Good morning, Albany.

Volunteers at Saint Joseph’s Saint Ann’s Outreach Center in the South End served takeout lunches to nearly 100 people on Tuesday morning, and Catholic Charities raised $25K from the Workforce Team Challenge to support the vital initiative (local help continues amid need).

Peter Hitchcock will operate Hudson Shores Tavern, which will open in the next few weeks at Hudson Shores Park on Watervliet waterfront (offering drinks, a simple menu and river views) to boost community gathering.

The University at Albany received a grant of over $4,000 from the IIE American Passport Project to cover passport fees for up to 25 students interested in studying or traveling abroad.

The application process, with a final deadline on Sept. 15, will give priority to students (freshmen, Pell Grant recipients, EOP students, first-generation college students).

Howe Elementary honored former teacher Josephine Chrys on her 100th birthday.

She, who taught for 17 years, attended a special assembly where students asked questions to celebrate her lasting impact.

Gov. Kathy Hochul announced that 250,000 homeowners will receive STAR program tax relief with rebates of $350 to $600 for incomes under $500k and $700 to $1500 for seniors, delivering over $136 million to the region.

Checks will be mailed in summer and fall, and recipients can track them online.

WAMC's David Guistina interviewed Mike Goodwin on June 16 about Stewart Airport's plans to bring airlines back to the area.

The conversation covered steps needed to restore local air service and boost regional travel.

Doctors are warning of a rising kratom addiction that is causing severe withdrawal symptoms in locals—fueled by its easy over-the-counter availability.

New York has just passed new regulations that require buyers to be 21, and St. Peter’s Addiction Recovery Center is offering help.

New York State Office for the Aging has provided over 38,000 animatronic pets to older adults since 2018 to ease loneliness and lower health risks; director Greg Olsen says research shows a 75% drop in isolation and the program now inspires similar efforts in other states + local communities.

Neighborhood Specialist Office Hours

3-5 p.m. — Arbor Hill/West Hill Branch — Free entry — Engage with the Neighborhood Specialist and share your thoughts on local services.

Capital Concert Series Featuring Kansas and Muscle Shoals

5-8:30 p.m. — Empire State Plaza — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of free concerts and festivities at the Plaza this summer.

Neighborhood Specialist Office Hours

3:00 – 4:30 PM — Arbor Hill/West Hill Branch — Free entry — Engage with your local Neighborhood Specialist and share your thoughts on community services.

Alive at Five Summer Concert Series: Classic Rock Night

5-11 p.m. — Washington Park — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of high-energy classic rock with FJ's tribute to Foreigner and Journey.

Atomic Rule Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Empire Underground — Ticket prices vary — Experience an electrifying night with Atomic Rule and The Virgos in Albany.

John Caparulo Comedy Show

9:15 PM — Funny Bone — Tickets available — Enjoy a night of laughs with comedian John Caparulo at the Funny Bone Comedy Club.

WWE Friday Night SmackDown

7:30-9:30 p.m. — MVP Arena — Tickets from $81 — Experience the electrifying atmosphere of WWE SmackDown live in Albany.