Good morning, Albany.

Plug Power said on Monday it will sell land at the STAMP industrial park to Stream Data Centers for $142 million even after Gov. Hochul signed a data center moratorium order, and the final closing will take place on March 31.

UAlbany's summer bus series kicked off June 26 at Collins Park in Scotia where families joined in slime-making and circuit board fun; the mobile tour led by Melissa Connolly will visit Chatham SummerFest on July 18, the Greene County Youth Fair on July 25, and other stops through Aug. 15.

State lawmakers honored Sgt. Henry Johnson on his 134th birthday on July 15 by renewing a bill to rename the Patroon Island Bridge in Albany after him so daily commuters can remember his legacy.

The Albany County Airport Authority board has narrowed its candidates for the new Albany International Airport CEO — an appointment aimed at boosting the Capital Region's economic growth.

The role now offers a salary between $225,000 and $275,000.

Sheriff Craig Apple announced on Wednesday that he won't seek a fifth term+ choosing to spend more time with his family.

Community leaders praised his innovative work in local correctional programs+ support for services to help homeless residents as his term ends in December 2027.

On July 15 at 3 p.m., WAMC’s David Guistina hosted a conversation with Mandi Zucker, executive director of End of Life Choices New York, to discuss the new Medical Aid In Dying Law that will take effect in August.

Columbia Memorial Hospital in Hudson will reclassify as a critical access hospital — cutting its bed count from 147 to 25 — prompting a rally last night from employees and patients who worry it risks local care.

Hospital leaders insist the change aligns services with community needs.

Hazy skies may pose breathing challenges as smoke from Canadian wildfires drifts over Albany today, and experts advise residents to limit outdoor time and keep windows closed to avoid symptoms (like fatigue and difficulty breathing).

Health agencies recommend masks and monitoring the air quality index to stay safe.

Former NewsChannel 13 anchor Emily DeVito returned home after a successful kidney transplant at Mass General on July 11 (she received her donor kidney after a 1 a.m. call) and continues her recovery.

Albany health officials urge residents to lower their risk of skin cancer by wearing protective clothing and sunglasses (and applying sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before going out) as more than 4,000 people are diagnosed with melanoma statewide each year.

The University at Albany women’s volleyball team, led by Coach Josh Pickard, has announced five new recruits ahead of the upcoming season.

The students from Ohio, Texas, Turkey and Japan bring international talent and high-level experience to boost the team.

Dylan Banner, the America East Pitcher of the Year, signed with the Gastonia Ghost Peppers on July 14 in North Carolina while teammate Matthew Mariano joined the Williamsport Crosscutters in Pennsylvania, quickly posting a 1.42 ERA during early relief outings.

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.

Franz Ferdinand Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Empire Live — Tickets from $89 — Experience the iconic sounds of Franz Ferdinand live in Albany!

Guster Concert

7-11 p.m. — The Egg — Tickets vary — Enjoy an evening of catchy melodies from the beloved American rock band Guster.