Good morning, Albany.

Residents lined up at the Metropolitan Church pantry on Tuesday morning as food supplies ran out with more than 70 people present—nearly double the usual turnout of 44.

Organizers said the surge comes after the USDA announced SNAP benefits will run out on Nov. 1 and are planning to add more pantry days to help Albany families.

First responders in Albany County will distribute free smoke detectors today from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at East Berne Fire Station — 792 Helderberg Trail — bought with an anonymous donation, with 500 devices available on a first come, first served basis.

Trader Joe’s will open a new store at Glenmont Plaza in Bethlehem on Tuesday at 9 a.m.—a brief ribbon-cutting will take place before doors open, and the store will donate unsold food to local nonprofits while serving as a hub for 49 new local crew members and transferred staff.

Cheri West opened The Boulevard at 125 Southern Blvd. in Albany—housed in the former Sam’s Italian American Restaurant and serving original-recipe clams, eggplant Parm and American grill fare in a family-friendly, sports-themed setting that honors the legacy of Sam’s.

Veteran-owned Douglas Industrial in Watervliet — a manufacturer of engineered fasteners since 1975 — was added to the New York State Historic Business Preservation Registry on October 28 for its long-standing service to agricultural, automotive and construction industries.

Officials said the business played a key role in shaping the area’s industrial identity by supplying 200,000 products from major brands.

UAlbany’s Center for the Advancement of Teaching, Learning, and Online Education launched the new season of its Pause for Teaching podcast Monday, featuring faculty and instructional consultants discussing how human connection supports learning—this season shifts from last year’s focus on artificial intelligence to highlight the value of personal interactions in the classroom.

UAlbany Man is a campus hero who gained powers nearly two years ago that boost student morale and now teams with campus groups for upcoming events—he keeps his identity secret to focus on inspiring kindness and hope.

Heatly School in Green Island now offers a free community closet stocked with everyday clothing, winter gear, shoes, personal care products, backpacks, and school supplies—students can access it during school hours by asking a teacher or staff member in the main office.

District officials announced the closet on October 24 and noted that former high school students helped organize the judgment-free space.

UAlbany’s College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity has teamed up with the Center for Internet Security to give students hands-on lessons in digital defense.

The partnership brings expert instructors into the classroom—helping students build the skills needed for cybersecurity careers.

UAlbany invites students to submit original artwork for its annual Holiday Card Contest — entries are due by 5 p.m. on December 1 via the contest website and must focus on universal themes.

Launched in 2018, the contest will award scholarships of $1,000 for first place, $650 for second, and $350 for third — the winning design will appear on the University's digital holiday card.

Albany County Jail is adding 16 dog kennels in a deal with Mohawk Hudson Humane Society to ease overcrowding at its 79-kennel shelter—officials said participants from the jail’s homeless program will be trained to care for the dogs, and the kennels will open by the end of the year.

Capital Region food pantries in Albany are bracing for higher demand as the USDA will pause SNAP benefits starting November 1—local officials expect more people, including federal workers affected by the shutdown, will soon rely on their services.

Pantry directors and food bank managers warn that this move will stretch already limited resources across the community.

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.

Self-Care Masterclass with Cecily Braden: Facial Care Routine

6-9 p.m. — Complexions Spa for Beauty & Wellness — Check website for pricing — Discover the transformative benefits of manual lymphatic drainage in skin and body care with an expert demonstration.

Albany Great Danes vs. Siena Saints Men's Basketball

7-8:30 p.m. — MVP Arena — Tickets starting at $25 — Catch the local college basketball rivalry unfold at this exciting matchup.