Good morning, Albany.

Barry Richman, 84, has worked at Pearl Grant Richmans in Stuyvesant Plaza for 66 years (the last original merchant from the plaza’s opening in 1959) and remains energetic managing daily tasks from fixing malfunctions to curating holiday gift selections.

Education advocates held a read-in at the State Capitol on Monday to urge Gov. Hochul to sign the Freedom to Read Act, a bill aimed at countering school censorship by ensuring inclusive library collections.

The bill passed both legislative chambers in June and is now awaiting the governor’s signature.

The Bethlehem School District postponed its planned vote on a $60M school upgrade and rezoning for five elementary schools after a Dec.

2 snowstorm disrupted proceedings; board officials rescheduled the vote for Feb. 3, 2026—allowing time to restart public notice and gather community input.

Albany County said there are no discussions about using the former St. Rose campus as a homeless shelter today, addressing concerns raised at a budget meeting amid cold weather.

The county stressed its focus on keeping people safe following a recent tragedy outside the airport.

UAlbany men's basketball lost to Yale 82–93 at the MGM Springfield Basketball Hall of Fame Classic at the MassMutual Center — Yale opened a 10-point lead late in the game.

The Danes will fly to Boca Raton to face Florida Atlantic on Saturday, Dec. 13.

Bored Teachers Comedy Tour

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Palace Theatre — Ticketed event — An evening of laughter exploring the realities of teaching for educators and non-educators alike.

Albany Holiday Princess Ball

12-3:30 p.m. — Crowne Plaza Albany - the Desmond Hotel — Ticket required — Celebrate the holiday season with an enchanting afternoon of princess-themed fun and interactive activities for children.

Elf Movie Screening

7-11 p.m. — Palace Theatre — Free entry — Enjoy a classic holiday film with family-friendly fun at this festive movie night.

Candlelight: 90s Hip-Hop on Strings

8:30 p.m. — The Venue — Tickets available — Experience the magic of 90s hip-hop reimagined with strings under candlelight.

Greg Bell's Halliday Ball

6-8 p.m. — The Eleven — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of captivating music with The Eastern Highs and their unique sound inspired by the Adirondacks.

The Nutcracker Ballet

2-8 p.m. — University at Albany — Enjoy a magical holiday experience with Clara and the Nutcracker Prince.

A Minecraft Movie Screening

1-5 p.m. — Palace Theatre — Free entry — Enjoy a fun-filled afternoon with a free screening of the family-friendly Minecraft movie as part of the holiday series.

Albany’s New Year’s Eve Latin Dance Party

8 PM - 2 AM — Ritmo Room — $25 Early, $30 At the Door, $35 After 11 PM — Celebrate the New Year with a fun and friendly Salsa and Bachata dance night.

Candlelight Concert: Tribute to Adele

6-7 p.m. — The Venue — Ticketed — Experience a unique tribute to Adele's greatest hits illuminated by candlelight.