Good morning, Albany.

The Albany Ride for Missing Children kicks off today at 6 a.m. from the Impact Athletic Center in Clifton Park, drawing riders, law enforcement and families together—highlighting the event’s focus on child safety and tribute to missing children.

The 100-mile ride will feature community members and officials like Lt. Steven Grassmann from SUNY Police—underscoring the commitment to ongoing efforts in child protection.

The NY Special Needs — Disabilities Expo will take place at the Albany Marriott on September 21 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM and will host over 50 vendors offering resources, services, and free expert presentations for individuals with disabilities and their families.

Organizers say the event will help connect community members with valuable support and information.

New York school districts are adjusting to the state’s bell-to-bell cellphone ban that stops students from using smartphones—tablets, smartwatches, and similar devices—in class to limit distractions and boost social skills.

Some districts allow approved communication through school offices so families can still reach students in emergencies.

UAlbany Associate Professor Laura Wilder’s book, Tracing the Impact of First-Year Writing, won the Best Writing Across the Curriculum Monograph Award on September 18th — the award was given jointly by the Association for Writing Across the Curriculum and The WAC Clearinghouse; her research shows how first-year writing builds student voice and success.

Meteorologists said the warm blob in the northern Pacific will push the jet stream east and bring cold Arctic air to fuel heavy snowstorms in the Capital Region this winter.

Data from past winters shows heavier snowfall when the anomaly was present — forecasters warn that long-range predictions remain challenging.

Governor Hochul announced a $176 million plan that will upgrade water and sewer systems across New York by replacing lead pipes and removing harmful contaminants.

The scheme includes a $22.8 million grant under the LIFT program to replace 2,790 pipes in Syracuse—helping communities access safe water.

The New York State Police announced a new Autism Awareness Visor Card Program to help law enforcement talk with people on the autism spectrum during traffic stops (the cards use simple icons to aid clear communication).

Trooper vehicles will soon carry the visor cards statewide (people can download and print a card from the agency website).

The 41st Annual Albany County Safety Awareness Show and Car Seat Check will be held at Crossgates Mall next weekend on September 27 and 28.

Parents can have car seats inspected on Saturday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.—county officials will offer resources on child passenger safety.

An Albany County resident has tested positive for West Nile Virus and is being treated—this is the first case since 2018.

Health officials urge residents to protect themselves from mosquitoes by using repellent and covering exposed skin.

The Albany County Department of Health confirmed that a local resident has contracted West Nile virus, which is the first case since 2018.

Health officials urged residents to use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants when outside, and remove standing water—steps to reduce mosquito bites.

Jade Bird Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Empire Live — Tickets starting at $36 — Experience the captivating sounds of Jade Bird in Albany.

Graham Barham Concert

8:00-9:30 p.m. — Empire Underground — Tickets from $40 — Catch Graham Barham live in Albany with a range of ticket options.

CHEFS: Palm Royale

5:30-6:30 p.m. — Albany Capital Center — Support culinary excellence — Experience a delightful evening of farm-to-table tastings and community spirit.

Upstate New York Pickleball Championship

8 AM – 5 PM — Broadview Center — Check the event page for cost — Compete in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles across various age and skill levels at this inclusive tournament.

Oktoberfest 5k Albany

10:00 AM — Jennings Landing — Race fee required — Celebrate Oktoberfest in style while supporting local charities.

Albany Job Fair

9 AM – 4 PM — Holiday Inn Express & Suites, Latham — Free admission — Explore opportunities with 90+ companies hiring in Albany.

NORTHEAST Regional Campus Activities Conference 2025

Oct 3-5 — Hilton Albany — Membership and Delegate Pass required — Engage in educational sessions and showcases for student and professional development.

Albany Skelly Run

12:00 AM — 123 S Main Ave, Albany, NY — Tickets on sale now — Get ready for a spooky fun run filled with Halloween surprises and an after-party extravaganza.

Sir Chloe Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — Empire Live — Ticket pricing available — Experience the energetic pop sounds of Sir Chloe live in Albany.

TV Doctors Live at Lark Hall

6-9 p.m. — Lark Hall — Free entry — Experience a psychedelic jazz trio blending funk, reggae, and contemporary jazz with improvisational flair.