Good morning, Schenectady.

Today, community leaders, child advocates and local officials launched the 'Paint the Town Blue' campaign at the Schenectady County Office Building to raise awareness on child abuse prevention and support the county’s Child Advocacy Center.

Local businesses can display blue decals—while a fundraiser with blue-illuminated landmarks and an event at Frog Alley Brewing Co on April 25 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. will boost training and outreach efforts.

A man in his 20s was shot just before 3:30 p.m. near 1807 Van Vranken Ave. in Schenectady—a local hospital treated him and police investigate the incident, urging anyone with information to call the department.

More than 500 students will showcase research, art and performances at Union College’s 35th annual Steinmetz Symposium on Friday, May 9—featuring oral presentations, poster sessions, exhibits, dance and music shows—with additional events on Saturday including a jazz concert at 11 a.m. and Prize Day in Memorial Chapel to honor academic and leadership achievements.

Jennifer Rightmyer has been named this week’s Top Teacher by NewsChannel 13 after nearly ten years at Radez Elementary—her caring 5th-grade classroom features calm music, focused students, and hands-on projects—and she prepares her pupils for middle school.

Plans for the former St. Clare’s Hospital redevelopment moved forward when the City Council unanimously approved a zoning change to convert the site into apartments and a daycare.

The development team led by Jeff Buell and Chris Spraragen will close on the sale soon — the project will cost about $50 million and begin construction this Summer with an 18- to 24-month schedule.

The American Lung Association’s 2025 State of the Air report said the Albany-Schenectady metro area ranked 73rd in the nation for particle pollution from data collected 2021–2023—this rise partly came from 2023 wildfires and may lead to more asthma and heart problems.

The report also warned that longer ozone seasons could worsen air quality and urged lawmakers to pass tougher pollution rules.

The Cribtet Performance

8-10 p.m. — Van Dyck Music Club — Cost info not provided — Experience original hard bop jazz from The Cribtet in this vibrant monthly showcase.