Good morning, Albany.

On October 31, Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan and elected officials held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to open the new Washington Park Playground that began planning in 2019 with community input and was funded by the city and a state parks grant—local groups helped shape the design to create an inclusive space for all residents.

Albany musician Buggy Jive will release his new album Icarus Ascending on November 7 — the album features 13 songs that explore art, human struggles and modern challenges.

He recorded most tracks in his basement and will perform at the Northeast Regional Folk Alliance in Albany as well as at a Beatles celebration in Saratoga Springs later this month.

The Cohoes Public Library will host the second annual Upstate Writes Book Festival on November 8 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.—the free event will feature over 50 local authors across various genres, vendors, concessions, and prizes including a raffle for a signed leather edition copy of 'Wicked.'

El Rancho in Albany is hosting a Día de los Muertos celebration today from 1 to 3 p.m.—the event honors deceased loved ones with a decorated altar, traditional foods, and face painting.

Organizers also invite visitors to add photos to a community altar to remember family and friends.

On Oct. 29, 2025, the Capital Region Language Center in Colonie held a Day of the Dead celebration where people decorated sugar skulls and papel picados—these crafts honored the memories of loved ones ahead of the annual Nov.

2 observance.

Last school year, New York schools placed over 3,600 students in restraints or timeouts in more than 20,000 incidents under new state rules.

Officials noted that most events involved boys with disabilities—districts are reviewing practices to better meet state guidelines.

Adirondack Council released its 44th annual State of the Park Report on its 50th anniversary and praised Governor Hochul and the Legislature for boosting funds with $425 million for the Environmental Protection Fund and $500 million in new clean water grants—while noting setbacks in wildlife data and herbicide rules. The report sets future goals for protecting wilderness and improving water quality and includes a ballot proposal on November 4.

Local New York lawmakers are urging Governor Hochul to sign a bill that will ease the recertification process for minority and women-owned businesses in construction — the new law would let firms recertify automatically if there is no change in ownership or management.

The measure passed both the state senate and assembly — lawmakers say it will cut confusing paperwork and lower costs for business owners.

Today, USDA announced that SNAP benefits will not be distributed due to the ongoing government shutdown—lasting over 30 days—and the Regional Food Bank CEO advised residents to visit local food pantries if their EBT funds run out.

Local man Peter Gryga will run the NYC Marathon this Sunday in memory of his late sister and to support Double H Ranch—he and his team have raised $30,000 so far and he aims to finish in about three hours and thirty minutes.

The UAlbany Great Danes men’s basketball team, led by Coach Dwayne Killings, will open the upcoming season with an away game at Marquette on Nov.

3 and aims for an America East title by adding 11 new players to 5 returning ones. They were picked to tie for second in the America East Preseason Coaches Poll and guard Amir Lindsey was named to the Preseason All-Conference Team—raising hopes for a strong campaign.

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.

Cornhole Tournament for Youth Fundraiser

12:30-6 p.m. — Fort Orange Brewing — Entry fee to benefit a Cooperstown trip — Join in for fun and competition at this indoor cornhole tournament.

CHIODOS: 20 Years of All's Well That Ends Well

5:30-8:30 p.m. — Empire Live — $71+ — Celebrate 20 years of Chiodos with a vibrant live concert experience.