Good morning, Schenectady.

More than 15,000 children in the Capital Region have received free books through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, and local leaders say donor support will be key to sustaining the program.

United Way launched the initiative two years ago to help prepare kids for kindergarten.

Maple Bros Maple Popcorn from Greenfield Center will hit over 400 Stewart’s Shops stores starting Monday, Aug.

31. The snack — made in small batches with real maple syrup — comes in three flavors and is kosher dairy certified, reflecting a seven-generation family business.

New York Attorney General Letitia James announced a $12.1 billion settlement with Meta that could pay New York $1.15 billion and Vermont $92.7 million for youth mental health programs.

Meta will verify ages and limit under-18 use on Facebook and Instagram, pending court approval.

Albany County will enforce a ban on synthetic kratom products Monday, and Assemblymember Phil Steck of Schenectady supported the move while noting he would prefer a broader statewide prohibition.

The Schenectady County VA Outpatient Clinic in Rotterdam will close on Friday (due to a declining local population and rising costs), impacting 1,600 veterans who must now use clinics in Clifton Park and Albany.

Lawmakers have urged clearer communication on veterans care.