Good morning, Albany.

Troy officials will honor friend Michael Schnoop and officers who rescued Amarys Lopez (a young girl with autism) from the Hudson River on Sept.

5; the ceremony at City Hall will recognize their swift actions and promote Project Lifesaver.

Johnny Rockets will return to Crossgates later this year near Regal Cinemas (reopening in its former spot) and revive its retro American dining experience with classic milkshakes and fries.

This marks Lloyd Sugarman’s 13th location in the United States (a fan favorite at the mall).

The National Energy Assistance Directors Association warns that home heating costs will rise 8.7% this winter, with many families facing an extra $80 expense.

Experts advise Albany residents to seal air leaks and adjust thermostats while urging officials — to boost funding for low-income energy assistance.

The New York State Education Department announced that starting with the class of 2028, students will no longer need to pass a set of Regents exams to graduate; schools will use different assessments to show learning and growth (as part of the NY Inspires plan).

Sen. Gillibrand pressed the VA outside the former clinic in Rotterdam this morning, saying last month’s closure leaves the county without a local facility, which forces veterans to travel further for care — prompting concerns among local veterans and leaders.

State officials announced that millions of New Yorkers will receive energy rebate checks starting Monday, Sept.

21 as part of a $1 billion affordability program. Check amounts vary based on income tax returns & earnings, with joint filers under $150,000 getting $200 and smaller amounts for others.

The Schenectady VA clinic remains closed after its contract ended over rising costs and low veteran numbers; officials are shifting care for 1,600 veterans to facilities in Albany and Clifton Park (a 93-year-old veteran now drives two hours for bloodwork).

Dr. Asif Khan shared heart health tips in a Medical Monday session on Monday, Sept.

14, hosted by Ray Graf and streamed on WAMC devices + apps. The board-certified cardiologist at Northwell Health explained how to keep hearts healthy at his cardiology offices in Chester and New Windsor.

Albany Med and Glens Falls Hospital are using the Ion robotic bronchoscopy system and the da Vinci 5 robotic surgical system to help doctors reach deep lung nodules for early cancer detection.

The technology has already been used in over 400 procedures to safely guide biopsies and treatments.

UAlbany athletics will host several events this week, starting Friday with a golf rivalry at Pinehaven Country Club (Guilderland) and continuing with field hockey matchups and a football Hometown Heroes game on Saturday at Bob Ford Field.

Supporters can watch local games with free admission.