Good morning, Albany.

WAMC Northeast Public Radio finished its fall fund drive by reaching a $1.25 million goal in three days—almost 7,000 donors gave support after federal funding cuts spurred renewed urgency.

The station also used new local partnerships to boost contributions and address its operating shortfall.

Shaker Road Fire Department hosted its annual Open House on Thursday night during Fire Prevention Week, drawing hundreds to celebrate 50 years of Fire Explorer Post 475.

The event underscored the department’s long tradition of recruiting future firefighters — original advisor Bud Burton noted that the program has evolved over the years while maintaining its community roots.

Guilderland police reunited Angel Friday, a dog left at a closed Altamont boarding facility, with owner Michelle Willi and confirmed the pet is in good shape — facility owners now face animal abuse charges after Diesel died in their care and their next court hearing is set for Oct 30th.

Capital District LATINOS is hosting a Hispanic Heritage Month celebration today that will include a day-long blood donation clinic at 160 Central Avenue from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.+ The event features traditional foods, live music and cultural performances along with kids’ activities designed to highlight the need for type O blood donations among Latinos.

A study released on Oct 10 found that renters in the Capital Region must work 48 to 64 hours per week to pay for modest apartments as wages lag behind rising rents — full-time workers are struggling to cover even basic housing costs.

The University at Albany launched its ACE program on Friday by welcoming 200 students to receive help with college costs—covering items like textbooks and transportation—with personalized advising.

Gov. Hochul and state lawmakers allocated $12 million in the 2025-26 budget to expand the program across SUNY—aiming to help more students overcome barriers and graduate on time.

Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences will offer a fast-tracked route to med school when it partners with Western Atlantic University School of Medicine in the Bahamas, giving qualified students a guaranteed seat to earn their MD in six years—after finishing their bachelor’s degree in Albany.

The United Way of the Greater Capital Region launched a relief fund to help federal workers hit by the government shutdown that started Oct.

1—donating $10,000 and food from a regional food bank. The nonprofit said the fund will support over 5,200 workers who are not getting full pay as the shutdown continues.

Fiscal Policy Institute found that New York’s 2021 tax hikes on high earners did not make rich residents leave since the top 1% stayed more than other groups.

The study showed that state revenue from millionaires increased — their share rose from 40% to 50% while migration rates among wealthy residents dropped after a COVID surge.

Residents are invited to share feedback on the reimagined I-787 corridor at an open house on Oct.

21 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Albany Capital Center (interactive stations will explain the federal and state environmental processes and next steps to narrow design options).

Westgate Plaza at 911 Central Avenue in Albany is now under new ownership as Faraz Khan—owner of Clifton Park Center Mall and Wilton Mall—bought the plaza from Russell Road Associates for $6.3 million on October 3.

He began cleaning and painting the facade on Monday and plans to bring in national tenants to enhance the space.

The Great Danes won 3-0 against Bryant at Steven '69 and Lily Cowen Field in Smithfield on Friday afternoon — after scoring three goals across the last three quarters — and improved their record to 8-3.

They will host Northeastern on Sunday — holding a Breast Cancer Awareness Day event — to raise support and awareness.

Psychedelic Furs Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Palace Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Catch the iconic Psychedelic Furs live in a great local venue.

The EBlock Featuring Glass Pony and Victory Soul Orchestra

8:00-9:30 p.m. — Lark Hall — Ticket info not provided — Experience an electrifying night of soul, funk, and rock with some of Albany's best local bands.

Drake White Concert

8-9:30 p.m. — Empire Live — Tickets from $39 — Experience the energetic performance of Drake White at a local favorite venue.

Nate's Playlist Live Performance

6-8 p.m. — The Eleven — Free entry — Experience the debut performance of Nate's Playlist in an inviting local venue.

Stardew Valley - Symphony of Seasons

8:00-9:30 p.m. — Palace Theatre — Cost not specified — Experience a musical journey through the beloved world of Stardew Valley with a live orchestra performance.

Hilltop Halloween Bash

8-9:30 p.m. — Lark Hall — Free entry for early show — Enjoy a night of funk rock with Hilltop and Red Meat Conspiracy at Lark Hall's festive Halloween event.

Day of the Deadbeats Concert

8-9:30 p.m. — Lark Hall — Tickets available — Relive the Grateful Dead vibes with an award-winning tribute band delivering a unique musical experience.

From Ashes To New Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Empire Live — Tickets from $46 — Experience the high-energy performance of From Ashes To New in Albany, NY.

Albany Auto Show

3-7 p.m. — MVP Arena — $10 for adults, kids 12 & under free — Discover the latest car models and enjoy family-friendly activities at the Capital Region's premier auto event.

Desperados - A Tribute to the Eagles

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Cohoes Music Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience the classic hits of the Eagles performed by an all-star band of seasoned musicians.