Good morning, Albany.

The new bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Albany answered reporters' questions this morning (a week after his installation) during a press briefing, sharing details of his appointment.

Bishop Mark O’Connell, one week into his new role leading the Diocese, is waiting for a verdict in St. Clare’s pension trial at the local church.

He will assess the decision’s impact on operations as the legal process moves forward.

On Dec. 12, 2025, the University’s Division of Finance & Administration honored eight employees with awards for service and excellence.

Led by Vice President Todd Foreman, the program recognized achievements in teamwork and innovation (including recognition for first-year contributions and commitment to inclusion).

Albany High School opened the Falcon Market, an expanded food pantry offering perishable items, canned goods, and frozen foods donated by Market 32, Price Chopper, and the Regional Food Bank for free to help students facing food insecurity as holiday pressures grow.

A jury awarded $54 million in damages to over 1,100 former St. Clare’s Hospital employees yesterday after one day of deliberations.

A trial will be scheduled to decide additional punitive measures pending review by a bankruptcy judge.

Troy’s Business Improvement District is set for a 7.7% assessment increase approved by city council and will receive $100,000 in contingency funds next Thursday to support its 2026 budget.

Executive Director Olivia Clemente plans to seek a 10% increase — trimming its board next year if she stays.

CDC data indicate that while overall flu activity remains mild, New York is reporting higher cases and experts expect winter viruses to increase in the coming weeks.

Local health officials urge residents to get vaccinated + stay informed on new developments.

Professional Bull Riding returns to Albany at MVP Arena on Dec.

12 and 13. Reigning champion Grayson Cole will ride in the Velocity Tour after joining Onorato & Miller in downtown Albany.

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.