Good morning, Schenectady.

The Berkshire Bank Foundation awarded nearly $400K in grants to 96 nonprofit groups in Massachusetts, New York, Vermont, Connecticut and Rhode Island, including local organizations like Capital Repertory and Ellis Hospital Foundation—supporting vital community services.

This funding underscores the bank’s commitment to aiding groups that meet critical local needs.

The Shaker Road Loudonville Fire Department explorer post is celebrating 50 years this month as it gives local teens hands-on training in CPR and firefighting+ it started in 1975 when local scouts and firefighters joined forces.

Teenagers like Valentino Centanni, who joined soon after turning fourteen, now gain real-life skills and build strong family ties in the service+ the program continues to shape future first responders.

Firefighters in Niskayuna responded to a house fire on Peters Lane just after 4:30 p.m. Thursday and quickly rescued two dogs from a second-floor bedroom while containing the blaze with damage limited to one room — the cause remains under investigation.

Trent Griffin-Braaf, a Capital Region business leader, joined Power & Politics on Thursday to share his story from prison to launching new ventures like the Tech Valley Shuttle — Success Map Initiative.

He explained his work with justice-impacted individuals and the impact of the Clean Slate Act on Albany’s business climate, with his full conversation airing today as a podcast at 5 a.m.

The Seneca Chief boat replica stopped in Schenectady on Tuesday to celebrate the Erie Canal's 200th anniversary—its visit highlighted a long-held local heritage.

Union College inaugurated Elizabeth Kiss as its first female president on October 10.

She stressed curiosity and connection in her speech and said Union will use its core values to guide changes amid challenging times for higher education.

Jason Nevinger, interim vice president for Admissions, Financial Aid and Enrollment at Union, said that college admissions now face challenges with fewer graduating students and higher tuition discount rates.

He said his team will focus on selecting students who show real community engagement and multiple interests.

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.

New York Flames Tryouts

2:00 PM – 2:15 PM — Armory Studios NY — $30 tryout fee — Showcase your basketball skills and join the New York Flames team.

Sixties Spectacular Concert

7:00 – 8:30 PM — Proctors — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an electrifying night of catchy tunes and energetic performances by Sixties Spectacular.