Good morning, Albany.

An electrical issue caused a fire at Capital Combat Zone/Field of Horrors on Farrell Road around 2 p.m. Monday, July 20, destroying one building while fire crews stopped the flames from reaching nearby properties and no one was hurt, and the business plans to rebuild.

The crew from J. Hunziker Paving is working on a long-term project in Delmar that builds smooth, durable parking lots and driveways.

They use heavy equipment & skilled labor to grade and finish surfaces designed to withstand Capital Region winters.

After a Monday fire destroyed three haunted houses at Brunswick Field of Horrors, owner David Mulinio said he will rebuild them better than before to boost visitor experience.

This week's Book Picks are curated by Green Toad Bookstore in Oneonta and Cheryl McKeon at The Book House plus Marketblock Books in Troy, featuring titles like Etna by Paul Yoon, Copperhead Audio, and The Counting Game by Sinead Nolan.

The Saratoga County Fair opened on Tuesday at the fairgrounds on Prospect Street in Ballston Spa and will run until Sunday, July 26.

It features agricultural shows, history exhibits, live music & demolition derby events under the theme Liberty, Land and Legacy celebrating America’s 250th anniversary.

County Executive Daniel McCoy announced on Tuesday that Albany County, in partnership with MVP Health Care, invested $140,000 in after-school programs that include mentoring + STEM enrichment + career counseling.

The funding will also support a 20-week outdoor experience for up to 100 children at Lake Lawson County Park.

Bloom Boutique Bar and Eatery opened earlier this year and drew local attention with walls covered in flowers (and a hidden disco in its restroom) on New Scotland Avenue.

The venue serves standout dishes like beets and fried goat cheese and promises a creative dining experience.

UAlbany's softball team, led by coach Chris Cannata, announced its four new recruits for the 2027 season — the freshmen will fill gaps left by last year's standout class and come from local Northeast high schools.

UAlbany Athletics has honored six individuals and two teams by naming them to its Hall of Fame Class of 2026, highlighting achievements from five varsity programs.

The public induction ceremony is set for Friday, Oct. 2 at Broadview Center (registration fees: $50 for adults and $25 for children).

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.