Good morning, Schenectady.

Natasha Pernicka, executive director of The Food Pantries for the Capital District, said food pantries served 5% more people this year as families face higher food costs—upcoming SNAP changes may lower benefits further.

Cardona's Market has launched The Best Buddy, a limited-time sandwich available throughout October at its three locations to support the Albany Chapter of Best Buddies International—each sale donates $1 toward Lindsay Valenti's campaign and services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Valenti is a candidate for the Best Buddies Albany Champion of the Year Gala scheduled for Nov. 14.

The SUNY Schenectady ASAP program—receiving $12 million in state funding—expanded from 25 to 34 campuses and now enrolls 7,000 students, with enrollment expected to reach 10,000 next year.

Schenectady will expand its public Wi-Fi network with $1.6 million in state funding — making it one of four programs statewide under the Connectivity Innovations initiative.

The federal government shut down at midnight after lawmakers failed to reach a funding deal, leaving thousands of federal workers unpaid and local services delayed such as tax returns, small business loans and food inspections—experts warn that a prolonged shutdown may drive higher healthcare costs as some subsidies expire.

Two local figures named Angelo Santabarbara live in Rotterdam—one serves in the Assembly while the other leads network systems at Siena University and on the Board of Education.

They have been confused for each other for years and even held weddings at the same venue one week apart.

The annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Schenectady will be held Saturday, October 4 at Mohawk Harbor at 10 a.m.—Three participants will hold special flowers: Peter Runyon, who has Alzheimer’s, will hold a blue flower, his daughter Kate will hold a yellow flower, and Sally Heller will hold a purple flower in tribute to those who have passed away.

Bills vs Patriots Tailgate

5-8 p.m. — Centre Street Pub — Free entry — Gather for food, drinks, and football camaraderie before the big game.

Tom Rush Concert

7:30-11:30 p.m. — GE Theatre at Proctors — Tickets from $95 — Experience an unforgettable night with legendary performer Tom Rush.

The Thorn

7-8:30 p.m. — Proctors Theatre — Tickets start at $159 — Experience an unforgettable performance at Proctors Theatre in Schenectady.

Saratoga Fall Festival

12-3 p.m. — Jacob & Anthony's American Grille — Free entry — Experience the ultimate fall street festival with music, games, food, and seasonal fun.