All Over Albany

Paterson says budget will be focus, Troy gallery vows to fight, free emergency contraception, white squirrels

Soon-to-be governor David Paterson said Thursday during a press conference that his first priority will be getting the budget together. After entering to applause from staffers, Paterson remarked, "If most of you weren't being paid, I'd be flattered." [TU]

But if something happens before Monday, Spitzer still really is in charge. [CapNews9]

One Monday, not only will Paterson become governor, but Joe Bruno will assume the duties of lieutenant governor. And what does that mean? Not much. One of the only real powers of the lt. governor is break ties in the senate, but Bruno won't actually have that power in his role. So who will? No one's sure. [Troy Record]

Just in case you're wondering, Paterson's neighbors in Guilderland are fans. And he takes out the garbage, apparently. [WNYT]

The $50 million redevelopment plans for the old American Locomotive plant in downtown Schenectady may have come off the rails. [TU]

The Sanctuary for Independent Media says it now has a lawyer and it will fight the City of Troy over code violations that closed gallery to public gatherings. [TU]

Local Planned Parenthood centers are giving out free emergency contraceptive pills today. [Troy Record]

It looks like the long-vacant restaurant building across Western from Crossgates will be turned into a Japanese restaurant. [Daily Gazette]

White squirrels have been popping up around the area. Make of that what you will. But know this: they like peanuts. [TU]