Good morning, Albany.

Market 32 and Price Chopper held a pet food drive from September 14 to October 11 and collected 13,132 bags to help local shelters, rescues — and families facing pet food insecurity.

The donations will support animals in need across all 129 stores.

A local chapter of the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom gathered at Azmat Ahmad’s home in Colonie after the October 7 attack on Israel to share sorrow and cautiously hope for peace amid lingering conflict—members from the Capital Region and beyond continue to meet, discussing tough topics like antisemitism and the brutality of war while seeking trust and understanding. The group, which is part of a national network of 170 chapters, remains committed to interfaith dialogue as new peace negotiations begin.

Pad Thai Noodle held its grand reopening on Thursday morning in Colonie as the Singthon family welcomed Albany County Executive + the President of Professional Fire Restoration.

The restaurant has been selling out daily since reopening.

New York State’s Department of Veterans’ Services hosted a virtual event on Tuesday to honor Hispanic Americans by releasing a mini-documentary titled 'We Were Always There' that revisited military service from World War II to Desert Storm—highlighting contributions from both men and Latina veterans.

Albany Pro Musica is marking its 45th anniversary with a concert called Hear My Heart Sing on October 19th at Proctors’ Key Hall at 3:00 p.m. Maestro José Daniel Flores-Caraballo will return to the hall where he once conducted and will lead a program that mixes classic songs with new pieces—showing the group's rich history.

Frankie Focus, a green, bespectacled mascot for distraction-free schools, was unveiled last month by Gov. Hochul in Brooklyn to support a policy that bans cell phones during the school day — a policy backed by $13 million from the May state budget — and he encourages students to engage in offline activities.

Local fire chiefs advised residents on how to safely heat their homes as the weather cooled.

Former Clifton Park chief Art Hunsinger and Albany chief Joseph Gregory shared tips in news interviews to help prevent fire hazards.

Officials broke ground on the Albany Capital Center expansion project on Thursday at 126 State Street with a $10 million state investment—funding the addition of five new meeting rooms, a ballroom and outdoor space.

The project will expand the center to 84,000 square feet and is expected to meet rising regional demand.

Latham firefighters raised concerns about missed emergency calls when volunteers cover shifts after 6 p.m.—union president Shaun Leonardo said that 125 evening and overnight calls were scratched in 2024.

He added that the group wants the $426,838 FEMA SAFER grant to fund 24/7 full-time staffing to protect public safety.

Traveler John Bonhotal suffered cardiac arrest at the Albany International Airport on September 8th while checking in for his flight; he was saved by quick action from Southwest Airlines staff and sheriff deputies.

Bonhotal met with his rescuers to thank them—and the airport continues to expand its life-saving programs with free CPR training and additional defibrillators.

On Sept. 8, John Bonhotal collapsed at Albany Airport while checking in for his flight when rescuers (Southwest Airlines staff and bystanders) swiftly performed CPR with an AED.

He later met his rescuers at a press conference marking World Restart a Heart Day and soon returned to hiking, planning a trip to Denver next year.

Workers at Albany International Airport saved a man’s life on September 8 when he suffered cardiac arrest at the Southwest ticket desk—first responders from Southwest Airlines and the sheriff’s department quickly performed CPR.

Bonhotal later met with his rescuers and resumed hiking while expressing his gratitude for their prompt action.

Tickets for the 2026 Capital District Mayors Cup are now available for a rivalry hockey game at MVP Arena between Union College and RPI in January 2026.

The event will feature a women's game at 3 p.m. followed by a men's game at 6 p.m.—doors open at 2 p.m.

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.

Albany All Stars Roller Derby Game

6-9 p.m. — Washington Avenue Armory — Ticket information not provided — Experience the thrill of live roller derby action with the Albany All Stars.

Creed Fisher Concert

8-9:30 p.m. — Empire Underground — Ticket info available — Experience an evening of live music with Creed Fisher in Albany.