Items tagged with 'Schenectady'

Schenectady Ale Trail

Great Flats Brewing

Great Flats Brewing in downtown Schenectady.

There is now a Schenectady Ale Trail and -- as you might guess from the name -- it's a collection of craft brewers in Schenectady County that are already operating or will be soon:

+ Frog Alley Brewery - opening soon in the new Mill Artisan District development in downtown Schenectady
+ Wolf Hollow Brewery - Glenville
+ Great Flats Brewery - downtown Schenectady
+ Mad Jack Brewery - in the Stockade in Schenectady
+ Druthers Brewery - Mohawk Harbor in Schenectady
+ Back Barn Brewery - opening in 2019 in Duanesburg

The marketing effort is offering a digital passport program for $40, which includes a free beer flight at each of the breweries. And if you go to all stops, you can get a free t-shirt.

The announcement of the Schenectady Ale Trail from Discover Schenectady also included some bits about the various brewing system capacities and production at the participating breweries that might be interesting to beer nerds. They're below.

(there's more)

Gawking at the new Schenectady train station

new_Schenectady_train_station__1.jpg

In a bit of a surprise the new Schenectady train station opened this past Wednesday, a few weeks ahead of the announced schedule. The $23 million station is the replacement for the old 1970s station that was demolished last year.

We had a few free minutes in downtown Schenectady today, so we stopped by to gawk at the station. It's small, but nice. And it has that new station smell.

We've included a handful of photos if you'd like to have a look.

The design is said to be inspired by the old-old Schenectady train station -- Schenectady Union Station, the one built in 1910 -- that was knocked down in 1971. For a while Schenectady's train service was moved to a stop in Colonie. See Carl's history of the demise of the old-old station.

As nice as the new station is, the best thing about it might be its location downtown just off the corner of Erie Boulevard and State Street. Of the Capital Region's four core cities, Schenectady is the only one that still has an operating train station right in its downtown. It's a reminder of what could have been for a place like Albany.

It's kind of great that you can walk to a train in the heart of Manhattan, say, and hop off right in downtown Schenectady and walk to a destination there.

(there's more)

Follow up: The Mop & Bucket Improv Theater

MopCo_AmySchumer.jpg

Amy Schumer dropped in at MopCo last week for a pop-up show

AOA is on summer break. So we'll have new follow-ups with people we've met and covered during the last year (or so).

Just over a year ago, The Mop & Bucket Company -- the Capital Region's longest running improv troupe -- took a leap of faith. Troupe founder Michael Burns and his wife and partner Kat Koppett purchased an abandoned firehouse on North Jay Street in Schenectady, renovated it, and created the MopCo Improv Theater.

They had hopes of creating not just a place for improv performance, but a community space for all sorts of performance, classes, and a hub for creativity. A year later they're creating new improv formats, playing to sold-out houses, expanding their repertoire of classes, and hosting a wide variety of performers from improv to storytellers to sketch comedy.

Oh, and last week, Amy Schumer paid them a visit for a sold out pop-up show.

Michael Burns, who's also MopCo's artistic director, talked with us about this last year of making things up.

(there's more)

Music Haven 2018 lineup

musician Bombino

Nigerien singer/songwriter/guitarist Bombino opens the series in July.

The lineup for this summer's Music Haven series in Schenectady's Central Park is out.

One of the things that distinguishes Music Haven among the free summer concert series is its focus on world, jazz, and roots music. And a bunch of upgrades to the venue itself are set to debut this season.

This venue's schedule also includes a handful of concerts beyond the typical Sunday evening Music Haven concerts.

The series starts July 8. Here's the lineup...

(there's more)

Spin Doctors at Schenectady County SummerNight 2018

the band Spin Doctors

This year's Schenectady County SummerNight is July 13, and the headline is the band Spin Doctors.

Also part of the lineup: the bands Lucy and Bendt.

SummerNight is a free block party on State Street in downtown Schenectady from 5-10 pm. Shops will be open, and there are food vendors, kids activities, a sand sculpture, and fireworks at the end of the night. It's become a huge event -- last year's SummerNight drew an estimated 20,000 people.

By the way: It's been 27 years since Spin Doctors released Pocketful of Kryptonite, which sold more than 5 million copies in the US. And, according to the band's Wikipedia page, they've been together together and making albums ever since, except for a two-year hiatus around the early 2000s.

photo: Lucy Onions

GE Realty Plot walking tours

GE Realty Plot Irving Langmuir House 1176 Stratford Road 2008 CC Daniel Case

Nobel Prize winner Irving Langmuir lived in this home on Stratford Road in the plot. / photo: Wikipedia user Daniel Case (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Schenectady city historian Chris Leonard is leading a walking tour of the GE Realty Plot neighborhood May 19. Blurbage:

Leonard will cover the dynamic events and unique cast of characters who have called "The Plot" their home. The tour includes stories and anecdotes about GE inventors and executives, Schenectady business and political leaders, entertainers, and incomparable individuals, as well as the formation of The Plot and ongoing efforts to protect these stately homes. Some of the many luminaries covered include Charles P. Steinmetz, Irving Langmuir, Izetta Jewel Miller and Ernst Alexanderson.

The GE Realty Plot sits just to the east of Union College. The college sold the land at the beginning of the 20th century to General Electric (it was trying to pay off some debt) and the company developed the plot for homes for its executives and researchers. It's a beautiful, walkable neighborhood.

The walking tour is the morning of Saturday, May 19. Tickets are $20 -- "which includes entry into one of the homes, and a 15-minute break with snacks on its large front porch" -- and available online.

By the way: It looks like this tour will be offered each month through October.

Dry goods and carpets


The Schenectady County Historical Society shared this photo on Twitter Wednesday of the old Salisbury Dry Goods and Coffin Carpets that was once on State Street in Schenectady. The historical society says the photo is labled 1885-1888.

We're always suckers for old storefront photos. But the thing that really caught us about this pic is the people. If you click over to the large version of the pic, you can see them more clearly. They're all dressed up. And it's like they're all not exactly sure about how to stand there while having their photo taken.

We wonder what they'd think if someone told them them that more than a century later this photo would be translated into instructions by a machine, transmitted across wires and the open air, and then displayed on pieces of glass that people carry around in their pockets.

By the way: The historical society's Grems-Doolittle Library and Archive has a good blog that highlights pieces and stories from its collection.

Galaktoboureko at Blue Ribbon

Blue Ribbon Diner galaktoboureko

By Deanna Fox

Galactic burrito!

That's not what we're talking about today, but it's how to phonetically sound out galaktoboureko, the subject of this edition of Eat This!

The galaktoboureko -- a 3-inch high pastry -- is difficult to pronounce at first, and perhaps that's why it often goes by it's more common moniker: Greek custard.

(there's more)

Cereal sundae from Bumpy's Polar Freeze

bumpys polar freeze cereal sundae

By Deanna Fox

The lies we tell ourselves as adults: It's completely fine to eat ice cream -- just ice cream -- as a meal if 1) you skipped some other meal in the day, or 2) you've been sick/it's been a bad day, or 3) it's the only viable thing you can really bring yourself to make.

The guilt association or judgements of ice-cream-as-a-meal are laid to waste when you add in some sort of traditional meal fodder -- for instance, cereal.

Bumpy's Polar Freeze in Schenectady understands.

(there's more)

Neba Sandwich from Mike's Neba

Mikes Neba Schenectady neba sandwich cross section

By Deanna Fox

Whoever coined the saying "absence makes the heart grow fonder" probably didn't mean for the quip to apply to a sandwich.

Hey, love comes in many forms, including -- but not limited to -- roast beef layered between bread.

When people speak of comfort food, sandwiches are rarely listed in the ranks, but sometimes a PBJ just the way Mom made it, or a melty grilled cheese, provides a feeling of warmth akin to the embrace of a lover after a detente from distance or quarrels.

The Super Neba from Mike's Neba in Schenectady offers the same.

(there's more)

The new design for the Schenectady train station

Schenectady train station design rendering

That image above is a rendering of the new train station planned for Schenectady. There are a few more renderings after the jump if you're curious.

Andrew Cuomo made a stop in the city Tuesday afternoon to reveal the design for the $23 million station. It's the second go-around for the project. You might remember that the first attempt -- announced in 2015 -- ended up having to be re-bid after the the only bidder quoted a price $10 million higher than the amount budgeted. The old station was closed last month. [Cuomo admin] [DSIC] [Daily Gazette] [TU]

This new design looks like it might be more aesthetically attractive than the first one. It's scheduled to be completed by the end of 2018.

(there's more)

A look around Great Flats Brewing

Great Flats Brewing interior

Every month it seems like there's a new brewery somewhere around the region. And one of the most recent is Great Flats Brewing in Schenectady.

The brewery opened three months downtown, and this Thursday had its official ribbon cutting.

Here's a look around the brewery space, along with a few bits about what's going on there.

(there's more)

A look around the new Slidin' Dirty in Schenectady

Slidin Dirty Schenectady

The popular restaurant Slidin' Dirty opened a new location in the Foster Building on State Street in downtown Schenectady Thursday. It's the second location for owners Brooke and Tim Taney, who started out with a food truck in 2012, and then opened a permanent location in downtown Troy in 2014.

The new spot in Schenectady is much bigger than the Troy location, occupying two floors behind a large arch window that looks out onto the street.

Here's a look around the new space, along a few quick bits from the Taneys about why the picked Schenectady and the path from a food truck to multiple locations.

(there's more)

Electric City Trolley

CDTA electric city trolley map 2017

Earlier this month when CDTA announced the new Capital City Shuttle service for downtown Albany, officials mentioned that they were working on a similar service for Schenectady.

And the transit org officially announced that service Tuesday: The Electric City Trolley starts this Thursday, June 22. It'll run Thursday, Friday, Saturday from 4 pm to 1 am, with pick-ups every 20 minutes at each stop. And it's free.

That's a map of the route above.

Like the Albany service, the Electric City Trolley will have realtime schedule and tracking info as part of the Cityfinder app built by Transfinder (iOS | Android). If you've already downloaded it, you don't need to do so again -- just launch the app and it will now give you the option of which city you'd like to see.

CDTA advertises on AOA.

Capital City Shuttle

Capital City Shuttle bus

CDTA is staring up a free shuttle service this week that will run from the Warehouse District through downtown Albany to Lark Street. The "Capital City Shuttle" starts this Thursday, June 8 and will run Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights through Labor Day.

"People come here without a car. People live here, who don't have a car. People work here who don't have a car. And they need a menu of options," said CDTA executive director Carm Basile while introducing the program Tuesday. "This is just another notch on our menu of options."

Here are a few more bits about the shuttle service, along with updates about the planned regionalization of taxi service and the upcoming bike share...

(there's more)

Blues Traveler at Schenectady County SummerNight 2017

the band Blues Traveler

The headliner for this year's Schenectady County SummerNight will be Blues Traveler.

Also in the music lineup: Moriah Formica and Lucy.

The free block party on State Street in downtown Schenectady is July 14 from 5-10 pm. In addition to the music, there will be kids activities, games, a sand sculpture, food vendors, a cannoli eating contest, and fireworks at the end of the night.

Walking tours of Schenectady, scandalous and otherwise

Lawrence statue in The Stockade Schenectady

The upcoming slate of Schenectady walking tours organized by the Schenectady County Historical Society is out -- and it includes a "Scandalous Schenectady" tour June 6:

From bootleggers to brothels, Schenectady's Stockade is no stranger to scandal. Join us for a walking tour of Schenectady's sordid moments, and stay late for a drink special at the reputed Stockade Inn!

The full schedule is below -- tour topics include architecture, African-American history, Jewish history, and pre-revolution history.

SCHS also has more of its popular "Secret Stockade" tours planned for the summer months (details at that link above).

(there's more)

Drink Schenectady

drink schenectady logo

The The Capital Craft Beverage Trail has an event called Drink Schenectady coming up Saturday, April 15 at the Schenectady Armory from 2-6 pm.

It's similar to the Drink Albany event held in the fall. Blurbage:

Enjoy samples from all local Capital Region beer and cider producers along with local live music, vendors, food and games. All proceeds for the event go to benefit the Capital Craft Beverage Trail Association. ...

Capital Craft Beverage Trail Producers: Albany Distilling Company, Nine Pin Cider, C.H. Evans, Druthers, Helderberg Brewery, Helderberg Mountain Brewery, Indian Ladder Farmstead, Beer Diviner, Wolf Hollow, Browns Brewing, S&S Farm Brewery, Altamont Vineyards, Common Roots, Crossroads Brewing, Chatham Brewing, Upstate Distilling

Early bird general admission tickets are $35 until April 1, after that they're $40. There's also a VIP ticket for $60 that gets you in early for a cocktail hour.

Capital Craft Beverage Trail? Mission statement: "To promote the facilities of craft and farm-based beverage producers in the Capital Region of New York as a unified tourist destination, including representing, protecting and promoting the common business and regulatory interests of its members and their role as part of the fabric of Capital Region and to promote tourism in the region."

New life for buildings in Schenectady's Eastern Ave neighborhood -- and aspirations to lift the whole neighborhood

Eastern Ave projects composite

By Haley Viccaro

Schenectady's Eastern Avenue neighborhood, a residential strip not far from downtown and Union College, has been struggling for years with blighted buildings and closed businesses.

But several people are now looking past the deterioration and neglect, instead focusing on the potential behind the century-old homes and historic structures. They're investing money and time toward bringing new life to individual properties, hoping to lift the entire neighborhood.

Here's a look at a handful of people and projects.

(there's more)

Gawking at the new Rivers Casino and Resort in Schenectady

Rivers Casino Schenectady exterior

The Rivers Casino and Resort is set to open next Wednesday, February 8 at the Mohawk Harbor site on Erie Boulevard in Schenectady -- as you've no doubt heard.

There was a tour for members of the media yesterday as the casino continued its final preparations and trainings. So we went to have a gawk at the project that's gotten so much hype since the state's December 2014 selection of Rush Street Gaming to build and run a casino at the site.

Here are a bunch of photos...

(there's more)

A few details about the proposed Mill Artisan District project in Schenectady

CREDC priority projects 2016 The Mill Schenectady

A rendering of of the proposed project from the REDC briefing book.

By Haley Viccaro

One of the interesting -- and potentially transformative -- Capital Region projects to get state money during the recent Regional Economic Development Council awards is The Mill Artisan District. The project aims to renovate a three-block area in downtown Schenectady into space for craft beverage producers, artists, retail, and residential.

Here are a few more bits about the project, along with some of the potential tenants...

(there's more)

I-890 from above

If ever you thought you'd like to zone out while watching aerial video of the newly reconfigured I-890 interchange in downtown Schenectady,* the Cuomo administration helpfully provided such video Thursday as part of the official completion announcement of the project.

The clips also include some views of downtown Schenectady and the GE campus.

But, mostly, it's just one shot after another of infrastructure, man.
____

* Not likely, but you never know.

A look at MopCo's new Schenectady theater

Mopco theater Schenectady exterior after

The new MopCo Theater is at 10 North Jay Street in Schenectady.

Two things we should disclose before you start reading this post.

1. One half of AOA performs with the Mop & Bucket Company. (Hint: It's not Greg)
2. The Mop & Bucket Company advertises on AOA.

MopCo, the long-standing Capital Region improv company, now has its own theater -- a renovated former firehouse (and onetime strip club) on North Jay Street. It's sharing the space with its sister company, Koppett, which uses improv to train employees of companies such as Facebook and Apple in creativity.

In addition to its own improv shows, MopCo will use the new theater to host other improv troupes, classes, readings, music performances, story nights, and a wide variety of other special events.

MopCo officially opens the new space this Saturday with a TheaterSports show by its house team.

The company has been playing at Proctors for many years. For the last two years it worked on growing the business in a small rented space on Union Street while it searched for a permanent home.

The founders considered different areas in the Capital Region, but eventually found that home right around the corner in a broken down building in Schenectady's Little Italy.

(there's more)

Mapping a history of inequality in Albany, Schenectady, and Troy

Mapping Inequality HOLC map Albany cropped

A clip from the HOLC map for Albany.

You've probably heard of the term "redlining" -- it refers to the practice of denying services, such as mortgage lending, to people in certain neighborhoods based on the race or ethnicity of the people who live there. It's one of the ways discrimination became incorporated into economic systems in this country.

The practice and the term have roots that stretch back to the 1930s and a federal program called the Home Owners' Loan Corporation (HOLC), which surveyed cities and graded sections of them based on perceived "security" of investments there. From those surveys came maps -- with redlined sections.

A project based at the University of Richmond and involving researchers from a handful of institutions -- Mapping Inequality -- has gathered up these maps and made them accessible online.

So we pulled out the maps for Albany, Schenectady, and Troy.

(there's more)

Breathing Lights begins

Breathing Lights Schenectady Stanley Street

Stanley Street in Schenectady

The much-anticipated Breathing Lights project opens this weekend in Albany, Schenectady and Troy. For the next two months hundreds of vacant buildings in the three cities will be illuminated from the inside by gently pulsing lights as part of the public art installation.

The project is backed by up to $1 million in funding from the Bloomberg Philanthropies, and it won out over more than 200 other entries in a national competition for public art projects.

Here's a quick overview, along with some thoughts at the start of the project's public phase...

(there's more)

Schenectady bike lane demonstration

schenectady bike plan Craig Street demo

The city of Schenectady's ongoing work toward a master plan for bike infrastructure includes a demonstration project that starts today (Wednesday) and runs through the weekend on Craig Street in Hamilton Hill that's focused on bike lanes, shared lanes, and street calming. Blurbage:

As part of the Schenectady Bike Infrastructure Master Plan, riders and residents are invited to participate in this community demonstration project showcasing street-level bicycle improvements designed to increase safety and connectivity. The temporary installation through funding from CDTC, is designed to explore bicycle-related Complete Streets options for improving Craig Street as a City, Neighborhood and Schools connection.

Here's a map and other backgroun about the project.

The demo includes a bike fest Wednesday afternoon from 2-6 pm with bike-themed activities and prizes. And the Electric City Bike Rescue will be there helping with repairs and maintenance.

This is the second demostration project as part of the bike master plan process. Earlier this year there was a demo of a contra-flow bike lane on Washington Ave.

When Schenectady liked Ike

Eisenhower Schenectady campaign stop 1952 NYS Archives

The other day while looking for something else, we stumbled across this photo of a Dwight Eisenhower campaign stop in Schenectady in October of 1952 in the NYS Archives digital collection.

There's something about the photo that caught our eye -- the candidate had yet to arrive and the photo is of the crowd, waiting, the banner on the building declaring the now-famous campaign slogan. Maybe it's that the scene feels different somehow compared to the current presidential campaign.

Head over the NYS Archives website and check out the zoomable version of the photo -- there are all sorts of little details. We liked the way you can spot people watching from windows of the surrounding buildings.

Here's a photo of Eisenhower at the campaign stop.

Just about two weeks before this photo, then President Harry Truman also made his way through Schenectady and Albany. He was campaigning for the Democratic candidate Adlai Stevenson. And he criticized Eisenhower, the great WWII general, for proposing a cut to military spending.

Of course, Eisenhower would go on to win the election. He also won New York State, and almost every county in the state except three in New York City.

photo: New York State Archives

VanCurler Music is closing

VanCurler ext.jpg

This Saturday marks the end of an era in Capital Region music.

After nine decades in business the Schenectady music shop VanCurler -- its motto: "All Music in Print" -- is closing its doors. It's been selling sheet music and music books to musicians, actors, teachers and students in the Capital Region since the 1920s, and it's been across from the stage door in the Proctors arcade since the 30s.

Current owners Rhoda Luborsky and her mother, Florence Luborsky, have been operating the VanCurler since 1984, but in recent years business has been steadily declining.

The reason probably won't surprise you.

(there's more)

Schenectady bike infrastructure plan survey

schenectady bike plan crash map

The website for the project includes includes a handful of maps that you might find interesting. The example above plots bike and pedestrian crashes around the city between 2010 and 2015. / map: City of Schenectady / CDTC / Alta / LAndArt Studio

The city of Schenectady is working toward a bike infrastructure plan and is looking for input via an online survey. Blurbage:

This plan is being developed to address the needs of all user types ranging from novice neighborhood and trail bicyclists to expert road bicyclists. Please take 5-10 minutes to fill out this questionnaire. Your response will help to build a better understanding of area needs and priorities. Even if you do not bicycle regularly, your feedback will be helpful.

The survey is pretty much what you'd expect: questions about why people bike, what would encourage them to bike more often, and priorities for making bike infrastructure upgrades.

The city is working with the Capital District Transportation Committee and Alta Planning + Design on the bike plan. (Alta is a go-to consultancy for bike projects -- it's also working with the city of Albany on the waterfront bike trail connector.)

Music Haven planning venue upgrades

music haven proposed upgrades rendering 2016-July

The Music Haven Concert series in Schenectady is launching a plan to upgrade the outdoor concert venue in Central Park. Press release blurbage for the "House and Hill" campaign:

The plan includes the installation of 400 permanent, stadium-quality front of house seats atop a new, evenly paved surface; a terraced hill offering improved seating to those who prefer lawn chairs and blankets; a security gate across the face of the stage; and a permanent hutch to cover the audio booth.

That's a rendering above. A public dedicated is planned for next summer.

There's state money lined up for the project, but the project is also looking to raise $50,000 in private donations. (There will be details about how to donate at this season's concert series and on the website.)

Of all the free summer music series in this area, Music Haven might be the most eclectic. It draws on a wide spectrum of acts, ranging from jazz to Celtic to African rock to act this year described as Ukrainian "folkdrone Björkpunk."

Earlier on AOA: Music Haven 2016 lineup

You should stop and smell the roses

Schenectady Central Park Rose Garden

Or, at least, stop and see them.

We stopped by Central Park Rose Garden in Schenectady Friday evening. Walking along the rows of blooms -- the roses are either at their peak or close to it -- the scene felt a bit unreal, almost magical.

There are a few pics after the jump (they don't really capture it). But if you have a chance during the next week, you should stop by and see the garden in person.

(there's more)

Schenectady downtown residential tour and HOMES Fair

Schenectady HOMES fair 2016 posterThe city of Schenectady's annual H.O.M.E.S. Fair is this Sunday, June 26 in the Jay Street Marketplace downtown from 10 am to 2 pm. Poster blurbage:

Citywide Open House
Schenectady throws open the doors to a variety of neighborhood homes during the 2016 Citywide Open House. Visit attractive and affordable living options throughout Schenectady and picture yourself owning or renting a home in this rising Capital Region City.
New This Year! - Downtown Residential Tour
For the first time, several new residential developments in Downtown Schenectady will showcase their upscale apartments and amenities. Stroll around downtown from location to location, grab a bite to eat, do some shopping and visit the Schenectady Greenmarket to experience the quality and convenience of downtown living.

Here's a link with info about the downtown residential developments that will be open for touring -- there are seven spots listed.

H.O.M.E.S.? Home Ownership Made Easy in Schenectady.

By the way: It's a good time of year to stop by the rose garden in Schenectady's Central Park.

Buffalo wings from 20 North Broadway Tavern

20 North Broadway Tavern wings

By Deanna Fox

"Can we try Buffalo wings sometime?"

Finally. My youngest child is now a true Upstater.

A kindergartener in public school, it was only a matter of time before he heard about wings and was tempted to try them. He was barely off the school bus when he asked, and then asked again, and asked a subsequent half-dozen times over the next few days.

It was happening. We were going out for his inaugural taste of this quintessential Upstate New York dish. But where do you go to make sure the first bite is a good introduction?

(there's more)

Music Haven 2016 lineup

DakhaBrakha music group

"Adventurous Ukrainian ‘folkdrone Björkpunk’ quartet" DakhaBrakha will be there in August.

Here's the lineup for this summer's Music Haven concert series in Schenectady's Central Park, which is now in its 27th season. The Sunday evening series starts up July 10.

One of the things that sets Music Haven apart from the other summer series is that it tends to focus on world, jazz, and roots music. And this year is no different.

(there's more)

More details about Breathing Lights

Breathing Lights Schenectady test

One of illuminated buildings in a recent concept test in Schenectady. / photo: Hyers + Mebane

There are some more details out about the Breathing Lights public art project that's set for this fall in Albany, Schenectady and Troy.

You might remember this is the project that won a large grant in the Bloomberg Philanthropies Public Art Challenge last summer as part of a national competition. It will be illuminating hundreds of vacant buildings during eventing in October and November with pulsing, "breathing" interior lighting with the goal of generating interest in neighborhood development.

Project organizers recently completed a test of the concept at a handful of houses in Schenectady.

Here's a condensed outline of some events, along with some info about opportunities to get involved...

(there's more)

Screenings of new Mohawk Giants documentary

MohawkGiantsTalk-011.jpg

The 1931 Mohawk Giants. / photo courtesy of Schenectady County Historical Society

WMHT has a new documentary about the Mohawk Giants baseball team in Schenectady queued to premiere Monday, April 11 at 7:30 pm. That's just before the debut of the new Ken Burns two-part doc about Jackie Robinson that same night at 9 pm.

But you can catch a free early screening of The Mohawk Giants: Schenectady & The Negro Leagues at Proctors this Tuesday, April 5 at 7 pm. The night will also include a few excerpts from the upcoming Jackie Robinson.

Blurbage for the documentary about The Mohawk Giants:

The Mohawk Giants were an independent professional negro league baseball team supported by mostly white fans, whose players were a mix of young bucks on the way up and older veterans who were on their way down from the Negro Major leagues. The team found lots of success in its runs between 1913 and 1940 with players like the eventual Homestead Gray Buck Ewing and pitching ace Frank Wickware.
With the help of national caliber historians and a first-hand look into the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City, MO, we're able to tell the stories of this team as well as other standouts from the area like Edsall Walker. Walker was born in Catskill, played ball in Albany, and then moved on to play for one of the most famous Negro League teams, the Homestead Grays, alongside baseball legends like Josh Gibson, Cool Papa Bell, and many others.

It's free to attend the preview screening, but WMHT does ask that you RSVP: rsvp@wmht.org.

Earlier on AOA: The Mohawk Colored Giants of Schenectady

New set of renderings for the Schenectady casino

Rivers Casino gaming floor rendering

The backers of the Rivers Casino & Resort project at Mohawk Harbor in Schenectady released a new set of renderings for the project today. If you'd like gawk, they're after the jump.

The exterior look of the venue has been a point of discussion over the past year as the design shifted from the sleek look white panels and glass in the original proposal, to a more factory-like red/orange brick, and then after criticism from the public, back to something more like the first design. The exterior renderings released today look like those version 3 rendering from last summer.

Today's package of renderings also includes a few interior scenes. And they look like, well, a casino. There's also a look at the casino's "events center," which very much looks like a convention center ballroom.

The casino is currently projected to open in the first quarter of of 2017. [Biz Review]

(there's more)

Veg Out: The Bier Abbey

bier abbey schenectady exterior

By Cristin Steding

Veg Out is short series about vegan dining options around the Capital Region.

While visiting a friend in New York City recently I found myself at a bar that had no vegan options. Every single option involved meat or butter. The only thing I could order was french fries. Rookie mistake to not research beforehand. I had foolishly assumed that since most places in Albany have veggie options, surely a hip bar in Brooklyn, of all places, would have something.

Here in the Capital Region, being vegan is relatively easy. We have Whole Foods and Honest Weight for all our geeky animal­-free cheeses and most restaurants have at least one veggie option. It's easy to get spoiled.

One great veggie option for a low-key dinner date or after work drinks is The Bier Abbey in Schenectady.

(there's more)

Electric City Food Co-op info meeting

electric city food coop logoThe in-development Electric City Food Co-op -- "organizing to bring a community-owned, one-stop grocery market featuring local and bulk foods to the downtown area of Schenectady" -- has an informational meeting lined for this Saturday, January 16.

Project blurbage:

The Electric City Food Co-op hopes to expand market opportunities for local farmers and entrepreneurs, bring the healthiest and freshest foods to one of the food deserts of Schenectady on a full-time basis, offer greater opportunity for intentional eating, and strengthen the local economy by keeping our food dollars local.

Here's an FAQ on the co-op's website about its plans.

Co-op organizers say they've gotten financial commitments from 155 households so far. When it reached 300 households, they say they'll be able to begin the process of site selection. (And 1,000 member-owners will eventually be needed to open.)

The info meeting Saturday is at the Schenectady County Historical Society (32 Washington Ave in Schenectady) from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm.

Schenectady Wing Walk 2015

wing walk 2015 logoThe Wing Walk returns to downtown Schenectady October 3, which is a Saturday (a change from last year). Blurbage:

From noon to 5 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 3, wing fans will try samplings from eighteen downtown Schenectady restaurants and vote for their favorite. Classic garlic parm wings will, of course, be in the running, but expect deliciously creative variations, too, like Mexican Radio's Vidalia Onion Georgia Peach Wing, Aperitivo Bistro's Seven Hour Cherry Pepper Wing, Taj Mahal's Spicy Masala Wing and Ninja Asian Restaurant's Boneless Chicken Yakitori Wing.
Other participating restaurants include: 2014 Wing Walk winner 20 North Broadway, Backstage Pub & Grill, The Bier Abbey, Bombers Burrito Bar, Café NOLA, Centre Street Public House & Garden, The Grog Shoppe, Isopo's Downtown Pizza, Katie O'Byrne's, Nico's Rooftop Tavern, Pinhead Susan's, Thai Thai Bistro and the Van Dyck. New nightspot Firestone 151 makes its Wing Walk debut this year, and will host the official after party.

Some of the restaurants will be offering beverage specials, along with live music. There will also be a comedy show rotating among some of the venues.

Wing Walk tickets are $10 / $5 for students (with ID) and available via Proctors. (That's also where you pick up the ballots for voting for your favorite wings.) Tickets for the rotating comedy show are $15, and there's a $5 discount if purchased with Wing Walk tickets.

Quirky filing for bankruptcy

quirky office downtown schenectady exterior 2014 November

Quirky's office on State Street in Schenectady.

Updated

Quirky -- the consumer products invention company with a large office in downtown Schenectady -- announced Tuesday morning that it's filing for bankruptcy, and says it's working to "facilitate a sale of substantially all of its assets." [Quirky]

The company's office in the City Center building on State Street in downtown Schenectady has served as a customer service operation for Wink, a service for connecting "smart home" appliances (Quirky spun off Wink as it own company). So here's the key local part of the bankruptcy announcement:

With respect to assets related to the business of Wink, Inc., the Company has entered into an agreement with Flextronics International USA Inc. for the sale of certain assets at a purchase price of $15 million. The sale will be subject to higher or otherwise better offers. The Company will look to conduct an auction, if other bids are received, and will be seeking court approval to have the sale close within approximately 60 days. The bankruptcy filing does not impact the Wink experience for users nor how Wink operates day-to-day. Wink's engineers and designers will continue to enhance the Wink platform to provide new, meaningful ways for customers to interact with their smart home. The Wink HUB and Wink Relay will continue to be available at The Home Depot and Amazon. Wink's customer support team will continue to provide the same quality assistance.

Patrick Mahoney, a PR manager for Wink, said today via email that "the Schenectady team is not impacted by this process." And though the company doesn't share office-by-office numbers, he said that Wink overall has 80 employees.

David Buicko of the Galesi Group, which owns the City Center building, told the Daily Gazette today he's confident Wink will stay in Schenectady. [Daily Gazette]

When Quirky's arrival in Schenectady was announced in March 2014, it was touted as A Big Deal that would bring attention and jobs to the city. But there have been rumblings since this past spring that the company was in serious trouble. And this summer founder Ben Kaufman publicly admitted the company was essentially out of money -- he left the company shortly after that. And the word out of the Schenectady office was that things were very shaky (though the company still bought an $8,000 ice cream machine). [Business Insider] [Fortune] [NY Mag] [Daily Gazette]

Earlier on AOA: What is this Quirky in Schenectady?

Stockade Walkabout 2015

stockade lawrenceThe annual Stockade Walkabout returns to the eponymous historic Schenectady neighborhood for its 55th year on September 26.

What is the walkabout? Blurbage:

The Stockade Walkabout grants visitors the chance to step inside six privately-owned homes in the neighborhood, including:
+ A 1792 home featuring beautiful original fireplaces, beams, and wide pine floor boards.
+ An 1827 house featuring a historic kitchen, complete with the original fireplace and bake oven.
+ The clock house! With unusual antique clocks, and incredible views of the Mohawk River.
+ The "Home of the Friendless", the original site of Schenectady's oldest charity.
+ And then the "newest" house, dating to 1900!

Backyard gardens will also on display, and there will be costumed characters, exhibits, demonstrations, and music.

The walkabout is Saturday, September 26 from 11 am-5 pm. Tickets are $20 ahead / $25 day of / $10 for students (available day of).

Historic beer tour of the Stockade

 stockade lawrenceThe Schenectady County Historical Society has a tour that could be interesting -- "Schenectady Suds" -- lined up for September 24. Blurbage:

Take a walk along what was once known as "Brewer's Street," looking at local history through the lens of a beer glass. This walking tour of the Historic Stockade District will examine the history of brewing and its impact on our history, from the Colonial era to today's craft brew revival. The tour begins with a look at the SCHS exhibit Hops & Hogsheads: Beer from Colonial to Craft Brew, and concludes with a tasting and tour at Mad Jack Brewery / The Van Dyck Restaurant and Lounge!

The tours depart at 5:30 pm, 6 pm, and 6:30 pm on Thursday, September 24 at the historical society at 32 Washington Ave. Tickets are $12 and available online. (Pre-registration is required.)

Good brunch spots in/near Schenectady?

french toastLindsay emails:

I just moved to Schenectady, and I'm wondering if anyone has good recommendations for brunch spots (especially those with bars) for Saturday/Sunday mornings.
I've tried Union Cafe, which has fantastic service, darn good pancakes, and tasty Greek eats. Eating on the patio in the sun is nice (although the view leaves something to be desired), and there is no alcohol served (i.e., cravings for a bloody mary or mimosa go un-quenched).
Any tips from the AOA community would be greatly appreciated.

Lindsay mentions that she's been following Lauren's brunch mini-tour. But that hasn't made it to Schenectady, yet. So if you have suggestions for Lindsay, they can also double has possible spots for Lauren to check out.

So, got a good place in mind? Please share. And, as always, a sentence or two about why you're suggesting that place is like an extra kick of horseradish in the Bloody Mary.

Proposed design for the Schenectady casino #3

rivers casino schenectady rendering v3

There are larger, uncropped versions after the jump.

Rush Street Gaming -- the company that will be operating Rivers Casino & Resort at Mohawk Harbor in Schenectady -- released a new set of renderings for the casino project today, and says it's submitted the designs to the Schenectady Planning Commission.

A statement that accompanied the new design, from Rush Street Gaming VP of operations Joe Scibetta:

"Today we submitted to the Schenectady Planning Commission an updated design of Rivers Casino. We put forth a tremendous amount of effort and energy to incorporate the feedback we received from city officials, planners and the community. What we are proposing is a world-class facility, much like our other casino projects."

The new design follows some pointed criticism from the public about a design released in June that was a significant aesthetic departure from the design included with the company's proposal to state Gaming Facility Location Facility Board. The first design had been a sleekly modern building clad in glass and white. The second was much less modern and prominently featured brick, which the company said it thought would "reflect the look and feel of the Schenectady community." A designer for the company told the city's planning commission later that month that they had maybe gone "overboard" in changing the look. [Daily Gazette]

Rush Street released two renderings today -- for the front of the facility and the river side. The new design appears to keep the same shape of the project. But the brick has been swapped out for lighter colors and paneling.

Have a look...

(there's more)

Capital Region project wins national public art challenge

breathing lights project rendering

A rendering showing how Breathing Lights might look.

A joint Albany-Schenectady-Troy project has been selected as one of four winners of the Bloomberg Philanthropies Public Art Challenge, and is now in line for up to $1 million in funding from the org.

The local project is called "Breathing Lights" and aims to make use of vacant properties in the three cities.

(there's more)

New look for the Schenectady casino project

Rush Street Gaming -- the company that will be operating Rivers Casino & Resort at Mohawk Harbor, AKA the Schenectady casino -- released new designs for the project Thursday.

It's not surprising that the plans for the casino buildings would change in some way -- that happens frequently on projects both big and small. But the new designs are a significant aesthetic shift, from a sleek exterior that featured white cladding and lots of glass to a new look that prominently features brick.

The press release that accompanied the renderings notes the new plans "detail designs that reflect the look and feel of the Schenectady community." And it includes a quote from Rush Street Gaming CEO Greg Carlin: "We've arrived at a design to complement the City of Schenectady and the Capital Region. We're very proud of this vision and we are looking forward to starting construction." Extended blurbage:

Rivers Casino will be a $300 million gaming facility featuring a 50,000-square-foot gaming floor with 1,150 slot machines and 66 gaming tables. A high-end steakhouse, a "marketplace" with lite fare restaurants, an entertainment lounge, a banquet facility and a spa will also part of the project, as will a 150-room hotel and a parking garage, both to be attached to the gaming facility. Public outdoor open spaces and riverfront walking and biking trails will be part of the project.

The company says the plans have been submitted to the the city of Schenectady Planning Commission for review.

OK, let's have a look at the new renderings, along with some of the designs included in the initial application for comparison...

(there's more)

The Capital Region's theater district

schenectady theater composite

Clockwise: Proctors, Schenectady Light Opera, MopCo and Schenectady Civic -- part of the Downtown Schenectady performance scene.

In the late 1920s there were 19 theaters in just the city of Schenectady.

"Companies like General Electric and ALCO were booming back then," says Schenectady County Historical Society librarian Michael Maloney, "and the city experienced a huge growth in population between 1900 and 1930. Theaters were able to capitalize on that."

Of course, there were also zero TVs in the city at the time. There was no internet. There was no Hulu or Netflix. There were no video games.

But that time set the stage for some remarkably long running theater institutions in the city. And almost a century later, they're helping Schenectady develop an identity as the Capital Region's theater district.

(there's more)

GE Realty Plot tour 2015

GE Realty Plot tour 2015The GE Realty Plot Home & Garden Tour returns this year on Jun 6 and 7. Tickets are $25 and available at a handful of locations listed at that link.

The plot is just east of the Union College campus. General Electric bought it at the end of the 1800s and it was subdivided as a neighborhood for company executives. The design of the neighborhood was inspired by New York's Central Park.

The tour has been offered sporadically in recent years -- the last one was 2013 -- but it sounds like the plan is to now offer it biennially.

This year's tour includes six homes. A listing is after the jump.

Albany tour
Just a reminder that the annual Hidden City House and Garden Tour in/near Albany's Center Square neighborhood is set for Thursday, June 25 from 5-8 pm. Tickets are $15 through June 19 and are available online.

(there's more)

Music Haven 2015 lineup

Red Baraat band

Red Baraat will be there in July. (Their music is really fun.)

Here's the lineup for this summer's Music Haven concert series in Schenectady's Central Park, which is now in its 26th season. The Sunday evening series starts up June 26 28.

One of the things that sets Music Haven apart from the other summer series is that it tends to focus on world, jazz, and roots music. And this year is no different.

(there's more)

AOA Startup Grant winner Puzzles Bakery & Cafe set to open this month

Puzzles exterior.jpg

Puzzles Bakery & Cafe is on State Street in downtown Schenectady.

One year after winning the AOA Startup Grant contest, Puzzles Bakery and Cafe is about to open.

In addition to serving sandwiches, salads and baked goods, Sara Mae Hickey's bakery and cafe has a mission: Puzzles is a for-profit business with a commitment to employing people with disabilities -- autism, especially.

The cafe was inspired by Sara Mae's experience with her autistic sister. She set out to create a business at which adults with developmental disabilities would have an opportunity for personal growth, a source of income, social interaction, and a sense of purpose.

The last year of renovating the building, creating the space, and preparing to open the business has been a long road with a few unexpected bumps -- including a burglary, and a front loader plowing into the back of the building. Three times.

What has the last year taught her?

"Well, I've learned that opening a business is one of the hardest things that a person can do. I know that about a year ago I thought we were able to open in a month or two -- and here we are almost a year later and we're finally ready to open our doors for real."

(there's more)

Capital District project is a finalist for national public art prize

bloomberg public art project finalists map

A map of cities that submitted proposals. / map: Bloomberg Philanthropies

A joint submission by Albany-Schenectady-Troy to the Bloomberg Philanthropies Public Art Challenge has made it to the final round, the org announced today. The competition will award at least three cities as much as $1 million for their proposed projects.

And what did the Capital District cities end up proposing? Blurbage:

Albany, Schenectady and Troy, NY - Breathing Lights
Illuminating the Need for Community Revitalization

The City of Albany, in partnership with its neighboring cities of Schenectady and Troy, proposes to illuminate up to 500 vacant homes nightly over two months. Working with artist Adam Frelin and more than 25 community and private sector partners, including the Lighting Research Center at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, this multi-site installation aims to regenerate interest in once-vibrant neighborhoods that currently have high vacancy rates. This consortium proposes to culminate the project with a regional summit on vacant homes and abandoned buildings to engage local residents, prospective buyers and investors, and policy makers.

Bloomberg Philanthropies says 237 cities submitted projects.

The other finalists: Albuquerque; Atlanta; Boston; Chicago; Des Moines; Gary, Indiana; Grand Rapids, Michigan; Hartford; Los Angeles; Maplewood, Minnesota; and Spartanburg, South Carolina.

Earlier on AOA: Public Art Challenge

Good daycare near Schenectady?

kid crawling with blocksLindsay emails:

About 2 years ago, you had a post asking for suggestions for good day cares near Albany. Now, I'm pregnant, and both my husband and I work in Schenectady. If possible, I was hoping that you could ask the readers for any daycare recommendations in the Schenectady area.

That Albany question generated a lot of suggestions, and it was great to see people explain some of the reasons they were recommending the daycares mentioned.

So, got a suggestion for Lindsay and her husband for a daycare in the Schenectady area? Please share!

photo: D Sharon Pruitt (CC BY 2.0)

The Mohawk Colored Giants of Schenectady

MohawkGiantsTalk-011.jpg

The 1931 Mohawk Giants. / photo courtesy of Schenectady County Historical Society

Each Friday this February we'll be highlighting people and stories from the Capital Region in honor of Black History Month.

In 1913 professional and semi-pro baseball teams dotted the landscape of the United States. Baseball historian Frank Keetz says every city and town and factory had an independent team. But in the Capital Region, there was only one black pro baseball team--the Mohawk Colored Giants of Schenectady. And they were good.

How good? They took on one of the best major league pitchers of the day, and won.

So why did they only last a season and a half? And how were they resurrected more than ten years later to become one of the most successful black indie teams in the country?

(there's more)

"What would it take to turn this into..."

960 Broadway Albany back

960 Broadway in Albany, viewed from from North Pearl Street.

Maybe you've stood outside one of the Capital Region's many old, underused industrial buildings and thought: "What would it take to turn this into (insert thing)?"

Well, The Preservation League of New York and the Troy Architecture Program have provided some answers to that question. Specifically, they've provided some detailed answers -- about building condition, code issues, variances, and costs -- for what it would take to transform a handful of buildings in Albany, Troy, Schenectady, and Amsterdam.

The reports are the product of the Preservation's League's Industrial Heritage Reuse Project, which is aiming to find new uses for historic former industrial buildings. (As mentioned last summer.)

One example: 960 Broadway in Albany's Warehouse District, which a developer would like to flip to restaurant and residential space.

(there's more)

Rivers Casino and Resort in Schenectady picked for Capital Region casino

Rivers Casino Schenectady rendering front small

A rendering of the project.

The state Gaming Facility Location Facility Board has picked the Rivers Casino and Resort project in Schenectady as its recommended site for the Capital Region. The $300 million proposal is part of the Galesi Group's Mohawk Harbor mixed-use project at the former Alco site.

Ahead of the announcement, chairman Kevin Law explained the board sought to select applications that both fit the guidelines laid out in the state law allowing the casinos -- 70 percent economic development, 20 percent local impact, 10 percent jobs -- and also held the most promise of long term success.

Strengths of the Schenectady proposal cited by the board:

(there's more)

A look inside Wolff's Biergarten Schenectady

The new new Wolff's Biergarten in downtown Schenectady opens Wednesday around 4 pm.

This Wolff's looks a lot like the Albany location, but it's larger, with three garage doors, more picnic tables, lots of flat screens for viewing soccer matches, and the requisite indoor faux tree. The building has been vacant for about ten years. It started out as a service station and last belonged to KEM cleaners.

If the Erie Blvd location seems strange, Matt Baumgartner says, it is a little.

"I think that's also consistent with Wolff's in Albany, which opened before there was much down in that area. And hopefully it will grow the same way."

Renovations on Erie Boulevard and recent growth in Schenectady were encouraging factors, he says. And the building itself interested him. "It was really affordable, and I love an old, sad building -- and this one was really sad. But I knew you could have garage doors, and having the garage doors is a real asset. People love them."

So with a Bombers and a Wolff's, is there going to be a Schenectady Sciortino's too? Baumgartner just laughs.

"Well, that's a good question. There's an empty building across the street."

After the jump, a look inside Wolff's Schenectady.

(there's more)

TOP2014: The Final

tournament of pizza final a lot of pizza

Sometimes things live up to the hype.

The final of the 2014 Tournament of Pizza, sponsored by Keeler Mini, was this past weekend at Shmaltz Brewing Co. in Clifton Park. And, as would only be fitting for the Tournament of Pizza to end all Tournaments of Pizza, it featured a clash of local pizza titans: DeFazio's of Troy versus Marino's of Schenectady.

DeFazio's, so many times a finalist, finally broke through last year to take the title. Marino's won the title in 2010 by beating, yep, DeFazios's. The two shops have posted the two highest individual pizza scores this year. And they represent the two highest all-time shop averages in TOP history.

That all adds up to a lot of expectation. And they exceeded it.

TOP2014 Keeler Mini in-post-ad

(there's more)

TOP2014: RD1: Mario's vs. Marino's

Marino's and Mario's exteriors

The 2014 Tournament of Pizza, sponsored by Keeler Mini -- the Tournament of Pizza to end all Tournaments of Pizza -- rolls along with a showdown between 2010 tournament champ Marino's of Schenectady and two-time semifinalist Mario's of Niskayuna

This year's clash-of-champions format includes first round matches consisting of two pizzas. Highest aggregate score advances. And, again, the types of the pizza for this first round: sausage and the ever-tricky broccoli ricotta white pizza.

Pizza judges, assemble!

TOP2014 Keeler Mini in-post-ad

(there's more)

Memories, of laser cats and laser dogs

schenectady high school laser cat dog photo

Remember Schenectady High School senior Draven Rodriguez and the laser cat yearbook photo?

Here's the compromise photo planned for the yearbook: Rodriguez and Mr. Bigglesworth along with principal Diane Wilkerson and her dog Vivian. CBS6 has some behind-the-scenes photo from the shoot, and reports the photo will appear on the principal's page of the yearbook with a message about pet adoption. [Daily Gazette] [CBS6]

Oh, and if you'd like your own laser cat portrait, the photographer -- Vincent Giordano of Trinacria Photography -- is offering them for $225.

photo: Trinacria Photography

Cats. Lasers. Memories.

draven rodriguez cat lasers yearbook

With Mr.Bigglesworth.

Schenectady High School senior Draven Rodriguez has won yearbook this year. And the internet.

That's the photo he planned to submit to the yearbook this year, and started a pre-emptive petition for the photo's inclusion. Over at the Daily Gazette, Mark McGuire has some backstory -- and word from the school district about the photo's chances of making it in.

[via @CBS6]

photo: Vincent Giordano

Schenectady's Little Italy outdoor film festival

Moonstruck poster.jpgSchenectady's Little Italy opens an outdoor film series with an Italian flare this Friday.
The Dan DiNicola Film Series , named for the late arts journalist and entertainment critic, will be held in the parking lot behind Perreca's in Schenectady. It's a bring your own lawn chair event. The series opens this Friday with Moonstruck, and continues on Friday nights through August 22. Here's the rest of the schedule:

August 1 - Big Night

August 8 Fellini's- 8 1/2

August 15 - Roman Holiday

August 22 - My Cousin Vinny

Earlier on AOA

+Friday night flicks outdoor movies

Bike sharing pilot program this summer

citi bike rack manhattan 2013

A Citi Bike rack in Manhattan.

A test run of a bike sharing program is planned for Albany, Saratoga Springs, Schenectady, and Troy later this summer. From the Capital Moves project:

There will be 25 bicycles available for use between 10am and 8pm at one or more locations in each City. Locations are planned to include Jay Street at State Street in Schenectady, Riverfront Park in Troy, Broadway at Division Street in Saratoga Springs, and Washington Park in Albany. Once registered, participants will receive an ID number allowing them to use the bikes for the rest of the month. There will be no cost to participants, although a credit card will need to be on file as security for the bikes. In addition, participants will need to sign a waiver and provide positive identification.

Over the Gazette, Justin Mason has an article that includes a bunch of details about the program. [Daily Gazette]

The program will run from July 10-August 15. Dates for each city are after the jump.

It'll be interesting to see how this pilot goes. Bike sharing is one of those things that sounds like it could useful/fun, but the details also seem hard. One of the most famous bike share programs is the Citi Bike system in New York City, which turned out to be very popular during its first year -- and also faced significant financial problems. And the system is apparently still trying to shake out some of its operational problems. [NYT] [NYDN]

(there's more)

Mexican Radio Schenectady now open

mexican radio schenectady exterior 2014 June

The long in development Schenectady location of the restaurant Mexican Radio officially opened today (Monday).

The upscale Mexican restaurant's location -- a completely renovated former a large building, a former OTB betting parlor, at State and Broadway in downtown Schenectady -- has been years in the making. Word of Mexican Radio's impending arrival in the city first bubbled up in 2010 after the owners apparently picked the Electric City over Albany. [Tablehopping 2010 April ] [Daily Gazette 2010 April]

The original Mexican Radio opened in NYC in the 90s. A lot of people around here know the restaurant from its location in Hudson on Warren Street, which opened a little more than a decade ago.

Earlier on AOA: Flan at Mexican Radio (2009)

Music Haven 2014 lineup

conjunto chappottin band

The Cuban band Conjunto Chappotin y Sus Estrellas will be making a stop in Schenectady during its first tour of the US.

The lineup for this year's Music Haven series of free concerts in Schenectady's Central Park is out. As usual, it has a bit of an international and folk flavor to it. This will be the 25th year for the series.

Without further ado, here's the lineup...

(there's more)

Spumoni at Civitello's

civitellos spumoni lid on

Many vibrant layers of flavor await underneath that lid.

By Deanna Fox

One of the (many) great things about Italian food is that it often looks like the country it came from. The hallmarks of many popular Italian dishes -- tomatoes, basil, cheese, pasta -- are the same red, green, and white that grace the country's flag.

Few nations promote their patriotism in such explicit culinary ways as Italy, a practice carried on by the cooking of many Italian-Americans. The pistachio spumoni at Civitello's in Schenectady is no exception. Layers of green and white with flecks of candy-colored red leave little doubt that a sweet bite of Italy is coming your way.

(there's more)

What is this Quirky in Schenectady?

quirky ben kaufman

Quirky founder Ben Kaufman, in a company video: "At Quirky we have one simple goal, to make invention accessible. Now, that doesn't happen overnight. But that's not to say it doesn't happen really f------ fast."

The invention/product company Quirky announced today that it will be opening an office in downtown Schenectady. The news has created a bit of a stir not only because the company is promising 180 jobs, but also because Quirky and its founder -- Ben Kaufman -- have been getting attention and hype in national media over the last few years.

So, what's the deal with the Quirky? Here's a quick backgrounder...

(there's more)

That time the Capital Region included four of the nation's 100 biggest cities

nys cities population national rank 1790-2010 crop

Don't worry, there's a bigger version.

Albany was once the 9th largest city in the nation, by population. And Schenectady the 17th. And Troy the 19th.

It's true. Of course, that was in 1840, 1800, and 1840.

Inspired by this chart of the nation's most populous metro areas over the country's history [via], we figured it'd be interesting to chart the national ranks (up to 100) of New York cities from 1790-2010. A few of the rankings surprised us (Cohoes! Watervliet!). And the trends help illustrate New York State's shifting position within the nation.

OK, let's have a look...

(there's more)

Alicia's charming Schenectady home

open house upper union composite

By Nicole Lemperle Correia / Photos by Dave Hopper

One of my favorite things about living in the Capital District is all the corners of our area to discover, even after living here most of my life.

Alicia lives in an area of Schenectady that I'd driven through in the past, but never knew much about. The Upper Union neighborhood is charming and grand -- wide boulevards lined by old trees, stately homes, and a mix of residents who have spent their lives there and younger people moving in. When I visited Alicia on a Saturday afternoon, the voice of the announcer at the Union College football game could be heard echoing off the houses.

Alicia's home reflects the history of the area -- a neighborhood built around the beginning of the 20th century, in part for General Electric executives and Union professors. Alicia has honored the home's past and at the same time created a vibrant and welcoming space.

(there's more)

TOP2013: Round 2: Schenectady

TOP2013 RD2 Schenectady

The 2013 Tournament of Pizza -- sponsored by The College of Saint Rose -- continues its Round 2 tour with a stop in the Schenectady bracket.

The pizzerias in this head-to-head matchup of veggie pizzas (green peppers, mushrooms, onions, black olives):

Giovanni's - Scotia - winner of the Round 1 pool of new-to-the-tournament shops

Mario's - Niskayuna - the returning bracket champ, who had a first-round bye

Can the Scotia shop wrest the bracket from its fellow suburban competitor? Or will the ever-treacherous veggie round be too tall a challenge?

We head back to the headquarters of the Mop & Bucket Company...

Saint Rose Tournament of Pizza ad 2013 in post

(there's more)

TOP2013: Round 1: Schenectady

TOP2013 RD1 Schenectady

The opening round of the 2013 Tournament of Pizza -- sponsored by The College of Saint Rose -- continues with the Schenectady bracket.

The new-to-the-tournament pizzerias in this Round 1 pool competition of sausage pizzas:

Visco's - Scotia
Giovanni's - Scotia
I Love NY Pizza of Schenectady - Schenectady
Pizza Buono - Niskayuna

The judges gathered at the Mop & Bucket Company studio...

Saint Rose Tournament of Pizza ad 2013 in post

(there's more)

Trailer for Muhammad Ali's Greatest Fight, which shot in Albany and Schenectady

Embedded above is the trailer for Muhammad Ali's Greatest Fight, the HBO movie that filmed in Albany and Schenectady last year. The film is set to debut on HBO October 5. (Presumably it will eventually be released on DVD, too.)

It's hard to tell if any local spots appear in the trailer. There are a few shots that could be the State Education building in Albany -- it served as a backdrop meant to resemble buildings in DC (and very easily could with a little CGI).

Muhammad Ali's Greatest Fight is based on the Howard Bingham book of the same title -- it's about Ali's refusal to fight in the Vietnam War, and specifically, the Supreme Court's handling of the case. In fact, Ali apparently only appears in the film via archival footage. Most of the action seems to center on the justices and their clerks.

The movie was directed by Stephen Frears, and stars Christopher Plummer, Danny Glover, Frank Langella (they play justices), and Bejamin Walker (a clerk). It was screened at this year's Cannes film festival. A Variety review from earlier this year called it "a worthy but faintly dull civics/history lesson."

[via @SarahLaDuke]

Earlier on AOA: Gawking at the shoot of Muhammad Ali's Greatest Fight in Albany

Proctors theater... and power plant, trash collection, and internet service

Proctors Marquis.jpg

An old Vaudeville theater that hosts Broadway road shows like Wicked and Book of Mormon, plus films, comedy, and music is easy to write about. There's glitz, there's glamour, there's history. It's sexy.

A district energy plant that heats and cools businesses along a city block -- less sexy.

OK, but what if the same place also collects trash? And sells internet and phone service? And hosts Broadway touring companies, films, comedy and music performances.

Then it's Proctors.

When you pass by the Schenectady theater and arts hub, here are a few interesting things that you won't see on the surface.

(there's more)

Electric City

electric city location scouting photo

A location scouting photo from the movie's Facebook page.

Another film -- appropriately titled Electric City -- is set to film in Schenectady this summer. Among its producers: Metta World Peace -- yep, the NBA player (formerly known as Ron Artest)*. Metta -- or, World Peace -- is even slated to appear in a scene at Newest Lunch. [Daily Gazette]

Here's a plot outline for Electric City. The director and writer is Nick DeRuve, a Schenectady native and Niskayuna High School grad. (One of his student films: The Inner Workings of William Balltown. Nisky reference?) Here's a little bit of background on both the movie and DeRuve. He's been posting bits about production on on Twitter and Facebook.

The Electric City cast includes Joey Lauren Adams, Emma Holzer (Boardwalk Empire, Spring Breakers), Liz Mikel (Smash's mom on Friday Night Lights), and Harrison Holzer.

* Our favorite Metta World Peace/Ron Artest Moment: When he thanked his psychiatrist after the Lakers won the title in 2010.

photo: Nick DeRuve / Electric City Facebook

A few things we learned covering The Place Beyond the Pines red carpet in Schenectady

pines schenectady premiere composite

We're going to let you in on a secret here: We don't cover many red carpet events. Let's rephrase that: We've never covered a red carpet event. Until now.

Last night we headed over to the Bow Tie Cinema for the local premiere of The Place Beyond the Pines in Schenectady -- which, like us, is also not accustomed to red carpet events.

For those of you who also have never attended a red carpet event, here -- in no particular order-- are a few things we learned or observed, and some pictures of what we saw.

And, yes, there are a few pictures of Bradley Cooper.

(there's more)

Where the food trucks are. And aren't. And why.

Wandering Dago in Schenectady

The Wandering Dago in Schenectady last fall.

Last week's announcement that the Food Trucks of NY Festival -- originally planned for Albany's Washington Park -- was instead headed for Troy, prompted people to ask: What happened?

So we looked into it. And as we found out along the way, part of the challenge of operating a food truck in the Capital Region is the area's many municipalities -- and their many different rules.

Here's a look at where you're more likely to find -- and not find -- food trucks around the area, and why.

(there's more)

My Place Beyond the Pines

place beyond the pines my house leah

A scene from the story that usually plays at Leah's house.

By Leah Wolff-Pellingra

Somewhere, there is an Italian restaurant where Michael Corleone shot Sollozo and McCluskey.

Somewhere, there is a bar where Matt Damon slammed a piece of lined paper on a window and said, "I got her number. How d'ya like them apples?"

Somewhere there is a bench where Forest Gump sat, a ring where Rocky fought, and a stage where Jennifer Hudson, threw out her arms, opened up her throat and sang, "You're going to love me."

I was watching the mastery that is Silver Linings Playbook last week, watching Bradley Cooper start to reach the height of his craft, and all I could think was: "Oh crap. You know that scene that will finally win Bradley Cooper his Oscar? That's going to be in my house."

(there's more)

A quick scan of Place Beyond the Pines reviews

place beyond the pines ryan gosling shirtless

Ryan Gosling's tattoos co-star in the film.

Because you've probably heard not one thing about it: The Place Beyond the Pines opens today in New York City and LA. (It'll start screening here April 12.) So most of the major publications have reviews today of the film, which as you well know, was shot in Schenectady.

Many of the critics seemed to be generally positive about the film, if maybe a little let down. (If anything, none of the reviews that we read today remarked about whether the actors were too hot to live in Schenectady, as one of the early festival reviews did.)

Here's a quick scan of a handful of the reviews...

(there's more)

Place Beyond the Pines Schenectady special screening

place beyond the pines gosling still

But will Ryan be there?

Update: We hear the screening is full -- tickets were basically available to people somehow connected to the production.

Just announced: there will be a special screening of The Place Beyond the Pines April 11 at Bow-Tie Cinema in the Schenectady.

Director Derek Cianfrance is expected to be there, along with "select cast and crew members from the film."

So, will you be able to go? Details on how to get tickets won't be available for a couple of days, but the publicists for the film say they're trying to accommodate everyone who'd like to attend.

The full release is posted after the jump.

Pines opens this Friday in New York City and LA. It'll be released here April 12 at the Bow-Tie, Spectrum, and Regal Colonie Center.

Earlier on AOA:
+ The Place Beyond the Pines local release
+ The Place Beyond the Pines trailer

(there's more)

Trying the alligator at Café NOLA

cafe nola alligator bites

They won't bite back. Probably.

By Casey Normile

I'm not a big fan of seafood. But I don't really know my stance on reptile.

So I decided to try some alligator at Café NOLA in Schenectady.

The restaurant specializes in all things Cajun, with po' boys, etouffee, jambalaya, dirty rice, gumbo, beignets -- and my dinner: alligator bites.

(there's more)

The Place Beyond Pines local release

place beyond the pines gosling still

The Gos.

This Friday is the release of The Place Beyond the Pines -- but it's a limited release. Like, really limited. As far as we can tell, the movie will be showing in four theaters total -- two in LA, two in New York City.

The film goes into wider release April 12, and there will be at least two local theaters showing it starting that day: the Bow-Tie Cinemas in Schenectady and the Spectrum in Albany, according to the websites for both theaters. Update: It will also be showing at the Regal Colonie Center.

As you know, this movie was shot in and around Schenectady back in 2011. We haven't heard word lately of any local premiere/event.

Update: We checked in with Don Rittner, who was involved in bringing Pines to Schenectady. He says he's organized a "People's Premier" at the Spectrum the evening of April 12 for locals who were involved with the film. He says he still has a few tickets. (Don also says he's looking forward to seeing himself get beaten up by Ryan Gosling in the film.)

Soundtrack: The soundtrack for the film -- by Mike Patton -- was released today. Pitchfork is streaming it. We'd call it... moody.

Bank robbers: This is from last fall, but we just came across it today and it included an interesting bit: In an interview with NY Mag, Pines director Derek Cianfrance says Schenectady police brought him a former bank robber so he could meet a real one. (Ryan Gosling's character in the movie robs banks.)

Earlier on AOA: Early reviews of The Place Beyond the Pines

still: Focus Features

Cycling in style

Over at the blog for the Schenectady County Historical Society's Grems-Doolittle Library blog there's a very interesting post about cycling in Schenectady around the beginning of the 20th century.

Bicycle garages at GE! A bike toll road along Route 5 between Albany and Schenectady! Early 1900s hipsters! It's kind of amazing how robust the cycling culture was then.

The post includes the above photo, from the Larry Hart Collection. From its description:

Two women stop during a bicycle ride around the Schenectady area, ca. 1900. Women's participation in the bicycle craze during the 1890s led to the decline of corsets, inspired "common-sense" dress, and allowed greater mobility for women. Women also joined men as members of cycling clubs formed during this period. Many suffragists and women's rights advocates saw the bicycle as a mechanism for women's freedom; in 1896, Susan B. Anthony told New York World reporter Nellie Bly, "I think [the bicycle] has done more to emancipate woman than any one thing in the world. I rejoice every time I see a woman ride by on a wheel. It gives her a feeling of self reliance and independence the moment she takes her seat; and away she goes, the picture of untrammelled womanhood."

As we've said before, the library's blog is totally worth a look. Lots of good stuff there.

[via Carl]

Challah from New Mt. Pleasant Bakery

New Mt. Pleasant Bakery challah

By Daniel B.

There's nothing new about the New Mt. Pleasant Bakery. This old school bakery in Schenectady's Mont Pleasant neighborhood may not show many signs of life from the street. Their hours are posted on a printed-out piece of paper taped to the door, scratched out and amended with a faded sharpie.

Inside, there's not much to look at these days, either. Yes, there are a few trays of colorful cookies, some donuts, a handful of black and whites, and perhaps a few random pastries. Yet many of the racks are empty, and past adventures in trying their sweets have taught me to avoid them.

But wonder of wonders, miracle of miracles, this very same bakery just so happens to make the best challah in the Capital Region. And it's worth making a special trip during the day on Friday to get it.

(there's more)

Winter in Schenectady, then

ice skaters Schenectady Central Park 1916 Grems-Doolittle Collection

Above is a 1916 photo of ice skaters in Schenectady's Central Park. Make sure to check out the large version. The picture makes us smile -- the big crowd of people all out on the the frozen lake, like it was the place to be that day.

The photo is from a collection at the Grems-Doolittle Library and Archives at the Schenectady County Historical Society. The library also has a blog, which includes a handful of other interesting winter-time Schenectady photos -- like one showing harness racing on a frozen Erie Canal.

The blog is good -- we got sucked into it for longer than we'd like to admit yesterday. It includes some great historical materials. Definitely worth a look.

Researching old houses
Speaking of the Schenectady County Historical Society: The Grems-Doolittle Library is offering a workshop on researching the story of old houses on February 16 from 2-4 pm. Blurbage: "Join us and discover the resources in our library available for researching the history of your home, neighborhood, and the people who lived there. This workshop will also include time to conduct research in the library." The workshop is $5. Contact librarian Melissa Tacke for more info -- 374-0263, or librarian |at| schist |dot| org.

photo: Grems-Doolittle Library Photograph Collection

Car crashes, snow, crime, and public data

no longer vacant Albany map clip
A clip from a map of vacant -- and no-longer-vacant -- properties in Albany, created by Tim Varney last year. See below.

Lots of interesting bits in this Daily Gazette article by Kathleen Moore about how police in Albany and Schenectady are using data*. Here's a clip, about how Schenectady police have been paying closer attention to car crashes:

By tracking car accidents last fall, Schenectady police pinpointed patrols in the Mont Pleasant neighborhood and saw certain crimes plummet by 12 percent in the last quarter of 2012. They are using the same system to respond proactively to crime throughout the city, in hopes of getting similar results everywhere.
Maps of crashes, drunken-driving arrests and other traffic violations are overlaid with maps of crime reports. Police patrols are sent to the hotspots -- locations where traffic problems and crime are high.
"What we know is, the driver that's risky enough to drive drunk ... is often risky enough to take other risks," said federal Highway Safety Specialist Shannon Purdy. "A lot of criminals are caught at seatbelt checks."

A section about the Albany police department mentions how the APD is using weather forecasts to adjust patrols.

Also: Schenectady mayor Gary McCarthy is working with UAlbany's Center for Technology in Government to build a platform that would allow city departments to share code enforcement data (say, about code enforcement), and share it with Albany and Troy.

More, please

That common platform is a good idea. And it's worth pushing even further: Why not created a Capital District consortium for publishing and sharing public data? The org could help develop tools, set common formats, and provide a clearinghouse for sets of public data. It would open the way for more orgs and people to get involved, and even maybe set the stage for new businesses. (NYC is already doing something along these lines.)

Sure, there are obstacles: time, money, attention. And civil liberties issues will probably crop up along the way. But having meaningful access** to data generated by your government is becoming a 21st century civil right.
____

* Yep, it's a Gazette article, but we have a feeling that link will work for you.

** A pdf that you have to file FOIL for is not meaningful access. It's a start, but we do a lot better.

Earlier on AOA:
+ A future timeline of Watson at RPI
+ Map: vacant -- and no-longer vacant -- buildings in Albany -- created by Tim Varney from data published in a city report last year

The Place Beyond the Pines trailer

The trailer for The Place Beyond the Pines is out. And it's embedded above. And, yep, you can recognize Schenectady.

Focus Features has scheduled the film's release date for March 29 "in select theatres." That usually means a film will be released in a few big cities, and then a few weeks later be expanded across the country. (It'd be great if Schenectady could be one of those first cities, though that's probably unlikely.)

Earlier on AOA: Early reviews of The Place Beyond the Pines

Taking in a game at the Schenectady Curling Club

schenectady curling club ice wide

By Casey Normile

When I first found out my roommate and her family were curlers, I pictured a large, strange rink with equally large men quietly moving around the ice while you sat in a cold seat, cheering them on without really understanding what they were doing.

But in reality, going to the Schenectady Curling Club to watch a game is just like watching from the comfort of home. You get to watch other people physically exert themselves while you sit in a warm viewing room with a fully stocked bar, leather couches, and a fire place.

I love sports.

(there's more)

Flatbread pizza at Tara Kitchen

tara kitchen flatbread pizza closeup

By Daniel B.

This is not a pizza. A pizza without cheese is like a hat without a crown, which isn't a hat at all but a headband. Henceforth I'll refer to what they call pizza at Tara Kitchen in Schenectady as a flatbread, since no sensible person is going to confuse one for the other.

On the most basic level the flatbreads here are a pita, covered with toppings, slid onto a plate, and cut into quarters. As a pizza it doesn't rate. But it's an intensely satisfying way of delivering the flavors of North Africa. And there is one topping in particular that puts this over the top.

(there's more)

Zombie Film Feast/Walk/Prom 2012

The annual Zombie Film Feast/Walk/Prom is at Proctors this year. (It had been at The Linda. Maybe there are no brains left to eat in Albany.) Here's the schedule:

Zombie prom
The zombie prom -- "complete with booze and ooze and finger foods" -- is Friday, November 16 at 9 pm. Tickets are $10.

Zombie walk
This year's zombie walk -- in which people dress up as zombies for a parade -- will stagger from Proctors to Schenectady city hall on Saturday, November 17. The undead processional starts at 4:45 pm. It's free to participate.

Zombie Film Feast
The annual festival of zombie flicks is that same Saturday in the GE Theater at Proctors. There will be two blocks of films -- 11 am - 5:30 pm, and 5:45 pm - midnight. Tickets are $25 for the whole festival, or $15 for one block.

TOP 2012: Round 2: Schenectady

TOP 2012 RD2 Schenectady

The second round of the 2012 Tournament of Pizza -- sponsored by Sunmark Federal Credit Union -- stops back in the Electric City.

The pizzerias in this head-to-head matchup of veggie pizzas (green peppers, mushrooms, onions, black olives):

Mario's vs. Nico's

How we got here: Nico's and Mario's both separated themselves from the other shops in this bracket with scores of 74 and 64. Those are very good totals. And they ousted the defending tournament champ from the contest.

Now, it's the always difficult veggie pizza.

We head to Anthology Studio in downtown Schenectady. Pizzaaaaaaa...

sunmark pizza banner

(there's more)

Eggs in Purgatory at More Perreca's

more perreca's eggs in purgatory

Hot breakfast.

By Daniel B.

Sometimes great dishes can be hiding in plain sight. It's just a matter of knowing what to order, and letting a trusted advisor be your guide.

More Perreca's had consistently disappointed me for breakfasts. The ultimate insult was toast made from the bakery's famous bread that was served cold. But that was just the tip of the iceberg. From a questionable frittata, to mushy potatoes, to an egg sandwich served on a quarter loaf of bread with a virtually impenetrable crust, nothing I tried over multiple visits had worked for me. The egg sandwich, when made with one of their generous sausage patties, had been the best of the bunch, just so long as it came unaccompanied by potatoes.

But Deanna from Silly Goose Farm insisted I had it wrong. She was willing to vouch for a dish on their breakfast menu and agreed to accompany me on one last journey to this offshoot of a Schenectady institution.

Not only are the Eggs in Purgatory there delicious, but I cannot imagine a more befitting breakfast for the Electric City in October.

(there's more)

TOP 2012: Round 1: Schenectady

TOP2012 RD1 Schenectady

The opening round of the 2012 Tournament of Pizza -- sponsored by Sunmark Federal Credit Union -- rolls ahead to Schenectady.

The pizzerias in Round 1 pool competition of sausage pizzas:

Returning champ: 5th and 50 - Scotia
Crowd pick: Nico's - Schenectady
Tough luck: Mario's - Niskayuna
Mystery entry

5th and 50 is not just the defending bracket champ -- it won the whole the tournament last year. Its title defense starts now.

The judges got together at Anthology Studio in downtown Schenectady...

sunmark pizza banner

(there's more)

The Wandering Dago food truck

wandering dago food truck schenectady

By Casey Normile

You might call Andrea Loguidice and Brandon Snooks a little crazy for leaving their jobs in law and marketing and moving from Denver, Colorado to Schenectady to open a food truck.

You might even call them a lot crazy.

But this couple -- one raised on a ranch in Montana, and the other a vegetarian from Long Island -- are excited to bring their Wandering Dago food truck to Schenectady.

(there's more)

If it's the third Friday, it's Schenectady

passeggiata schenectady poster1st Friday. Troy Night Out. Passeggiata. Passe-what?

A group of downtown Schenectady orgs are building on the city's "third Friday" events (Art Night Schenectady) with what they hope will become a new series: Passeggiata, modeled on an Italian term for strolling the town. From Proctors:

Passeggiata (päs-sād-ˈjä-tä) will soon be the new third-Friday tradition in Schenectady's revitalized downtown area! Starting Friday, September 21 - and each third-Friday of the month thereafter - residents, businesses and visitors will participate in a downtown strollabout. Each month will feature a different theme -- and engage businesses and attractions to share some neighborly time together.

The focus of the first event will be welcoming college students back to town. So, this Friday's events include:
+ A Wing Walk -- $5 gets you a chicken wing from a handful of downtown restaurants, from 5-9 pm
+ A "Campus Underground Block Party" on Jay Street from 7-9 pm (we're pretty sure it'll be above ground on Jay Street) with a bunch of DJs.
+ And Proctors is showing The Big Lebowski that night as part of the It Came From Schenectady series, at 7 pm. Tickets are $9 / $6 students with ID.

Of course, you don't have to be a college student to enjoy those things.

Reviews of The Place Beyond the Pines

place beyond the pines gosling still

Ryan Gosling plays a motorcycle stunt rider who knocks over banks. Apparently it's less ridiculous than that sounds.

The movie that shot in Schenectady last summer -- The Place Beyond the Pines -- debuted at the Toronto International Film Festival Friday night. It stars Ryan Gosling, Bradley Cooper, Eva Mendes, Rose Byrne, Dane DeHaan, and a bunch of other actors you'll recognize. It also reportedly includes many locations you'll recognize around the area.

The film has been picked up by prominent art house film distributor Focus Features after what was apparently a bidding war. Director Derek Cianfrance says it will be released sometime in 2013. [IndieWire] [IndieWire]

Here's a quick a scan of the post-debut reviews...

(there's more)

Talking peaches with Tom Maynard

maynard farms white doughnut peach

There's a secret to picking the best doughnut peaches.

By Casey Normile

Tom Maynard of Maynard Farms is a fixture at the Schenectady Greenmarket. He's been selling a wide variety of peaches, plums, nectarines and pears since the market started in 2008. And he grows some delicious fruit on his Hudson Valley farm.

"We try to deliver an honest-to-god good product to every customer who leaves here," he says. "My goal is for people to come here, buy our peaches and then come back next week saying, 'Wow, that was a really great peach.' Once they try it, they realize this isn't supermarket fruit."

Maynard has a friendly, outgoing presence, and you can often catch him talking about the finer points of fruit with customers.

I talked with him at the market recently for a quick guide on peaches and nectarines -- what separates the different varieties, how to make sure they're ripe, what the fuzz is called, and why you should look for the ugly ones.

(there's more)

The Place Beyond the Pines debuting in Toronto

place beyond the pines gosling still

Ryan Gosling. And his motorcycle.

The Place Beyond the Pines will be debut at the Toronto International Film Festival in September. The festival has become one of the most influential in the world, often helping to start order the Oscar field -- so a spot for Pines is at least an early indication that someone thinks it could be good.

It was almost just a year ago that Ryan Gosling and company were in Schenectady area filming the movie. (We heard a crew was back in town this past May doing a bit more shooting.) There isn't a release date for the film, yet.

In case you've forgotten from last year's local media blitz: The Place Beyond the Pines is directed by Derek Cianfrance (Blue Valentine) and stars Gosling, Bradley Cooper, Eva Mendes, Rose Byrne, Ray Liotta, Dane DeHaan (buzzed about, apparently), and Bruce Greenwood (that guy).

By the way: Virgin Alexander, the indie comedy shot in Saratoga a few summers back, is now available on DVD. (Thanks, Pat)

In appreciation of Schenectady

rose garden schenectady

Schenectady Central Park's rose garden: One reason Katherine <3 Schenectady

By Katherine Stephens

soapbox badgeI moved to the Capital District back in August of 2005 from Washington, DC. And I consider it a total upgrade.

Being a transplant gave me a whole different perspective on my adopted home. All the people I met who have lived here their whole lives found Albany boring, Troy dirty, Saratoga expensive, and Schenectady dangerous. I never found those things to be true.

Albany is exciting and fun, Troy is beautiful and revitalized, Saratoga is just a little pricey, and Schenectady is -- well, not dangerous but... what? What is Schenectady really?

I'm not quite sure, yet. I'm having fun finding out.

But what I am sure of is that there's really only one problem with Schenectady and it can be summed up into one word: perception.

(there's more)

The Bier Abbey

bier abbey exterior closeup

Beer, with church pews.

By Casey Normile

After more than a year of buzz, The Bier Abbey in Schenectady quietly opened its doors to the beer geeks on that side of the Capital Region.

His first time in business, owner George Collentine says he wanted to open the Bier Abbey "out of pure passion." He first ventured into the world of craft beer in the early 90s and was encouraged to open his own bar by the growing interest in microbreweries and craft beers, especially in the Northeast.

"We want to lean toward beer geeks and there are no places in Schenectady that really cater to them," he explained.

So what will beer geeks find there?

(there's more)

How walkable, relatively, is Albany?

albany walk score heat map

A heat map of walk scores for Albany. Here's the interactive map.

A post over at Atlantic Cities about the "most walkable cities" in the United States has been circulating locally on Twitter because it mentions that Albany is among the top 10 most walkable cities in the country, according to data from Walk Score.

It turns out that's not actually true.

But that doesn't mean Albany -- and a few other local cities -- don't fare well in the rankings.

(there's more)

Now on YouTube: Steinmetz, Felix the Cat, and other figures from GE's history in Schenectady

This is great: The Schenectady Museum has uploaded a bunch of vintage films to YouTube from its General Electric film collection. From the museum's announcement:

Films range from advertising and educational films to raw footage of equipment tests and company picnics. Many of the promotional films were originally shown in movie theatres in the days of newsreels and cartoons. While more films are being added daily, there are currently more than 50 films available, including: The "More Power to America" Train, 1960; Magic vs. Science, 1932; Charles Proteus Steinmetz: The Man Who Made Lightning, 1960s; Felix the Cat in The Kit and the Cat, ca. 1925; and General Electric Women in Science, 1954.
The Museum is currently offering three playlists on the channel: Transportation - rail and aviation films promoting innovations, including electric and diesel locomotives, turbo superchargers, and jet engines; General Electric Research - films highlighting technologies and inventions created at GE Global Research; and Electric Cars - electric car films from the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s.

The film embedded above is a bio film about Charles Steinmetz -- who worked for GE in the early 20th century. In addition to being a genius, Steinmetz was also one of the most colorful characters in the history of the Capital Region. We're guessing the film is from the 1960s (update: Josh says it may pre-date 1952). It includes some, well, rather dated language -- but it has some great photos of Steinmetz and other notables. (There's also a glimpse of Steinmetz's former home on Washington Ave in the Stockade, which is still there and bears a plaque noting he lived there.)

By the way:We're still holding out for a movie and graphic novel in which either Steinmetz is a superhero, or he builds gadgets and weapons for superheroes.

Earlier on AOA: A behind-the-scenes look at the Schenectady Museum's collection

What you can't see at the Schenectady Museum

Among the things you can't see in the Schenectady Museum right now.

So, when you go to a museum you get to see all this cool stuff that they have out on display, right? But museums often have a lot more stuff than space to display that stuff. Often, there are all kinds of interesting things stored away that you can't see.

So we asked Chris Hunter, Director of Archives and Collections at The Schenectady Museum, to show us a few of the interesting items in the museum's collection that you can't see right now.

What did find? Everything from comic books, ray guns and refrigerator songs to 1920's solar cell research tools.

Want to see?

(there's more)

Schenectady during the Super Bowl

The video embedded above is a GE commercial that the company says will run during the Super Bowl on Sunday -- it highlights the turbine factor at GE's campus in Schenectady, along with some of the people who work there.

The spot's cinematography is good -- the turbines looks like sleek sculptures. Not as good: the odd turn in the last third about how the turbines make Bud beer possible.

The company says it will be playing two commercials during the game broadcast, the Schenectady spot and one about an appliance factory in Louisville (embedded after the jump). They both put emphasis on the fact that GE is building stuff -- and employing people -- in the US. (Possible subtext: don't just focus on taxes...)

Earlier on AOA: President Obama at GE in Schenectady

(there's more)

Tacos at La Mexicana Grocery & Restaurant

la mexicana tacos overhead

Tacos from La Mexicana, from left to right: chorizo, chicken, carne asada.

By Daniel B.

Arriving at Oakland International Airport, the first thing I used to do was head to one of the taco trucks near International Boulevard. There are a lot of things I miss about living in Northern California, and the humble street taco tops the list.

Up until recently it's been unrealistic to expect a decent taco in the Capital Region. I know some people like Bros, and when the only choices were Bombers and Bros, Bros won handily. But the texture of their soft corn tortilla is just off, and you can't have a good taco when the tortilla is wrong.

After all, a taco is merely two small corn tortillas, with a little bit of well-seasoned meat, topped with onions and cilantro. Salsa verde or salsa rojo can be squeezed on top. On the side should be a wedge of lime and a few slices of radish, but ideally there will be pickled carrots and jalapeno peppers as well. From a taco truck out West, this could set you back a whopping $1.50.

The tacos at La Mexicana Grocery in Schenectady will cost you an extra fifty cents, but you get to eat them inside, on a real plate, with table service, all while watching Mexican TV or listening the jukebox filled with Mexican tunes.

There are six different tacos to choose from, including the one that stole my heart.

(there's more)

Power lunch

lunch behind GE sign

Rather exclusive.

If you were in the running for "best lunch spot" this week, we're sorry -- Katelyn has you beat. Her winning spot: right behind the famous General Electric sign in Schenectady. Yep, the one on top of a building.

Katelyn works for GE and won the lunch way up there through an office charity auction that benefited a scholarship fund.

Bonus facts: The sign has been in place since 1926, is 168 feet long, and costs $15,000 a year to light. [Daily Gazette]

Haunted Stockade Tours

First Pres Cemetery Stones (1).jpg

The 1st Presbyterian Cemetery, resting place for ghosts of the Stockade.

By Wendy Voelker

We're just about a week away from Halloween. It's that time of year when everyone seems to be looking for a way to scare themselves silly (as if political campaigns aren't enough).

These ghost tours of the Schenectady Stockade may not leave you quaking in your boots, but they'll certainly entertain you, freak you out a bit, and get you in the spirit of the season.

(there's more)

Pupusas at Flores Family Restaurant

pupusas flores family restaurant

It's like a Salvadoran grilled cheese.

Everyone loves pupusas.

Okay, maybe not the lactose-intolerant or the gluten-free set. But if you can eat the component ingredients, which primarily involve cheese and cornmeal, it's a no-brainer. It's like a Salvadoran grilled cheese sandwich. Or perhaps you would like to think of it as a quesadilla pocket. I always likened it to an arepa with a more fine-grained cornmeal exterior.

But it's not just cheese. Pupusas come in a variety of flavors. You can get them with pork, beans or loroco, as well. Never had loroco? Well, you will.

Brush up on a few Spanish phrases, and get yourself down to Schenectady, pronto.

(there's more)

TOP 2011: Round 2: Schenectady

TOP2011 RD2 Schenectady

Round 2 of the 2011 Tournament of Pizza, sponsored by Sunmark Federal Credit Union, rolls along to Schenectady. The pizzerias facing off in this round of pepperoni pizzas:

Marino's (Schenectady) vs. 5th and 50

How we got here: Marino's posted a solid 70 in opening round pool play. 5th and 50 squeaked into the second round by winning the tie break with Mario's after both posted 68s.

This is an interesting matchup -- Marino's is the returning overall TOP champ. 5th and 50 won Pizzageddon (or whatever it was called) at Proctors and scored well in the first round.

We head back to Anthology Studio on State Street in Schenectady for the tasting...

sunmark pizza banner

(there's more)

Haircuts at Paul Mitchell School in Schenectady

Paul Mitchell School -Salon.jpg

The Paul Mitchell

By Wendy Voelker

I have always hated my hair. When I was a kid, it was the wrong color (I was the only red-haired kid), and today, even though redheads are all the rage, it's always the wrong style. Not to mention the fact that I always wait too long to get a trim, and end up with what I call "Pumpkin Head."

I recently decided that finally, as I near the age of 40, it was time to do something about my lackluster locks. I wanted style. I wanted glam.

But where to go? I'm too intimidated and self-conscious to go to a high-end salon, and I'm too much of a cheapskate to spend that kind of money. I just do NOT understand how people can shell out $100 or more for a haircut. I clip coupons for crying out loud!

The answer came to me as I was planning an event in downtown Schenectady.

(there's more)

TOP 2011: Round 1: Schenectady

TOP2011 RD1 Schenectady

The next stop in the the Tournament of Pizza -- sponsored by Sunmark Federal Credit Union -- is Schenectady.

The pizzerias in the opening round pool competition of cheese pizzas:

Returning champ: Marino's - Schenectady
Crowd pick: Pizza King - Schenectady
Renee's pick: Mario's - Niskayuna
Committee pick: 5th and 50 - Scotia

This is probably the toughest bracket in the tournament. There's the returning overall champ (Marino's), a former finalist (Pizza King), and a newcomer that won a different contest (5th and 50).

The judges -- plus our guest judge -- gathered at the lovely Anthology Studio in downtown Schenectady...

sunmark pizza banner

(there's more)

Bubbles and hugs in Schenectady

hugs and bubbles outside proctors

Weeee!

We happened upon what was, for a few minutes at least, easily the happiest place in the Capital Region Wednesday afternoon in Schenectady.

Why? Bubbles and hugs.

(there's more)

Photos of Irene flooding in Schenectady

Heartbreaking.

At one point Sunday, officials were projecting that Schenectady would see record flooding -- a once in 500 years flood.

Thankfully, the Mohawk River relented before reaching that mark. But there was still a lot of water. And the Stockade -- one of the Capital Region's greatest neighborhoods -- got hit hard. Walking around Monday afternoon it was heartbreaking to see so many of the picturesque streets half-filled with water.

The good news: the water was already receding. And when you're more than 300-years-old, what's a little (or a whole lot) of water? The Stockade will bounce back.

Many photos from the Stockade -- and a few from Jumpin' Jack's in Scotia -- after the jump.

(there's more)

Letterman: "People in Schenectady can suck it!"

Last night Rose Byrne, who's in The Place Beyond the Pines, challenged David Letterman to spell Schenectady. He was (haltingly) successful -- and in triumph exclaimed, "People in Schenectady can suck it!"

Ms. Byrne, who replaced Greta Gerwig in the role of Bradley Cooper's character's wife, also talked about the reception the stars of the film have gotten in Schenectady -- mainly people going nuts for Ryan Gosling, Bradley Cooper, and Eva Mendes:

They have to barricade these women who are there screaming, you know, "Bradley! Ryan!"
And then when I open door, they're like "Bradle... who the f is that?" And then just go back [to texting on their phones] ... It puts me in my place.

Schenectady, you need to get on this. You can swoon all you want over Cooper and Gosling. But Rose Byrne totally deserves some screaming.

[via TU Movies]

Earlier on AOA:
+ Waiting for Gosling
+ An exclusive interview with Ryan Gosling's motorcycle
+ Say "Schenectady"

The Wizard of Schenectady

steinmetz with tesla and einstein in New Jersey

Steinmetz -- with Einstein, Tesla, Langmuir and others -- in New Jersey in 1921.

The Smithsonian's "Past Imperfect" blog has a post about Charles Steinmetz -- the "Wizard of Schenectady" -- this week is that is completely jammed full of awesome. A clip:

He stood just four feet tall, his body contorted by a hump in his back and a crooked gait, and his stunted torso gave the illusion that his head, hands and feet were too big. But he was a giant among scientific thinkers, counting Albert Einstein, Nikola Tesla and Thomas Edison as friends, and his contributions to mathematics and electrical engineering made him one of the most beloved and instantly recognizable men of his time.
In the early 20th century, Charles Steinmetz could be seen peddling his bicycle down the streets of Schenectady, New York, in a suit and top hat, or floating down the Mohawk River in a canoe, kneeling over a makeshift desktop, where he passed hours scribbling notes and equations on papers that sometimes blew into the water. With a Blackstone panatela cigar seemingly glued to his lips, Steinmetz cringed as children scurried away upon seeing him--frightened, he believed, by the "queer, gnome-like figure" with the German accent. Such occurrences were all the more painful for Steinmetz, as it was a family and children that he longed for most in his life. But knowing that his deformity was congenital (both his father and grandfather were afflicted with kyphosis, an abnormal curvature of the upper spine), Steinmetz chose not to marry, fearful of passing on his deformity.

The post was written by Gilbert King and it's a good, quick read of Steinmetz's story. It includes a bunch of great little stories, including one of our favorites, about Steinmetz and Henry Ford (as the story goes, Steinmentz sent Ford what may be the greatest invoice in the history of consulting (or perhaps it was GE, the story has a lot of variations)).

The term genius gets thrown around a lot -- but Steinmetz really was one. And a total character.

Tangent: There needs to be a comic/graphic novel/TV series/something in which Steinmetz's genius scientist/engineer identity is a cover for being some sort of superhero.

(Thanks, Brandon!)

photo from the Franklin Township Public Library collection via Wikipedia

Messing with Schenectady

schenectady wikipedia entry screengrabChris Churchill recently checked the Wikipedia entry for Schenectady and found an interesting "fact" about the origins of the city's name -- specifically that it's "derived loosely from a Mohawk word for 'dress in layers.'"

Of course, that's not true. The edit was made August 4 at 6:24 pm by user RalphMonster -- the first contribution recorded under that name. It was corrected (with the actual origin) just 8 minutes later by Wknight94, who has a significant record of contributions -- in fact, he/she has the highest number of logged changes to the entry.

The correction was uncorrected (if that's the word) Monday at 4:07 pm, about a half hour after Chris noted the odd "fact." The new version: "The name 'Schenectady' is derived loosely from a Mohawk word for 'church hill,' or 'near the church hill,' or 'place beyond the church hill.' The user: 518Snark, who seemed to be having some fun based on Chris' name. (It was 518Snark's first contribution.) The entry was re-corrected at 11:15 pm Monday by a user who did not login, but whose IP address does have a history of contributions.

Anyway, everyone knows that Schenectady means "place where people swoon over goslings."

Something wicket this way comes

But can they take all 10 wickets in an innings?

By Rob Madeo

When I was a boy, we played in the street. Stickball and street hockey, running bases, touch football. Even though there were perfectly good lawns and parks, we just sort of liked the street. Maybe it was the curbs, which were like built-in sidelines. Naturally, you had to look out for the storm sewers that swallowed countless balls, pucks, and Frisbees -- and oh yes, you had to watch for cars -- but the street was our playing field.

I don't see kids playing ball in the street much anymore, even at the dozens of basketball hoops that line our suburban neighborhoods. There are three hoops on my block alone and I've never seen a basketball being shot at any single one of them. They stand like monuments to the idea of sports. Go figure.

But things are different on my street these days. And the kids aren't playing the old reliable
standbys: they're playing cricket.

(there's more)

From Schenectady to Antarctica

uss bear

The USS Bear, the ship on which Anthony Wayne sailed to Antarctica.

This is great: a 95-year-old Schenectady man now has a landmark in Antarctica named after him. "Wayne Head" -- a rock headland on Horseshoe Island just off the Antarctic Peninsula -- has been named for Anthony Wayne. [Daily Gazette] [USGS]

Wayne was honored for his service during the United States Antarctic Service Expedition in 1939, Richard Byrd's third Antarctic expedition. Aboard two ships 125 men sailed to Antarctica to take surveys and build bases. Wayne served on the USS Bear, a steamship that had been built in 1874 to sail icy waters. The Bear is, according to a Coast Guard site, "probably the most famous ship in the history of the Coast Guard."

From a 2010 story by the Gazette's Sara Foss about Wayne and his trip to the Antarctic:

Wayne said he decided to go to Antarctica because it sounded like an exciting adventure.
"I thought, 'Who the hell goes there?' " he said. "It was something new. I was never sorry I went, but I was glad I came back. ... I thought I'd never survive. It was all frozen ice. There was snow 20 feet high and icebergs all over." The scariest part of the trip occurred when the ship got stuck on the ice and the men had to wait several days for the ice to separate and a channel to open. ...
Wayne said Byrd selected him for his crew because he was in excellent physical shape and, as a native of upstate New York, accustomed to cold weather.

Wayne showed Foss film he shot during the trip -- and it's awesome. Seriously, go watch it on the Gazette site (it looks like it's not behind the paywall). It shows Byrd, the ship, icebergs, penguins, seals, whales, sled dog teams, and this huge vehicle that looks like something you might drive on the moon.

Anthony Wayne is now the last surviving member of the expedition. [Daily Gazette]

A map showing Wayne Head is embedded after the jump. It's a short 7646 miles from Schenectady.

(there's more)

Mitch Messmore: from Schenectady to Beirut and, eventually, back

By Danielle Furfaro

mitch messmore with paintingMitch Messmore takes the Capital Region art scene very seriously. The Schenectady native has spent the past several years championing local art and attempting to bolster the arts community through his work with various organizations. In 2007, back when cities started getting the art walk bug, he founded Art Night Schenectady. This was just after he became the chairman of the board of the Capital Region Initiative Supporting the Arts and just before he was named the executive director of the Upper Union Street BID. He's also been involved with Upstate Artists Guild, Existing Artists and the Schenectady Photographic Society, just to name a few.

In November of last year, Messmore moved temporarily to Beirut to be with his wife while she is there working on a SUNY research project. You might think that while he is living in the Middle East, Messmore's penchant for local art would have at least been put on the back burner, but the multi-media artist has remained as active and committed as ever, continuing to run Art Night Schenectady via Skype, email and phone with the help of a posse of volunteers.

Now, Messmore has launched Art Night Beirut as a sister organization to the one in his hometown. His exhibiting his abstract paintings at a Beirut gallery. And he's thinking about how to turn the Capital Region into the cultural hub of the Northeast...

(there's more)

Why you should tip your pizza delivery guy more


A map of attacks on food delivery people, 2008-2011.

This past weekend in Albany's Center Square neighborhood a pizza deliveryman for Soho Pizza was the target of what must have been a terrifying attack. From the Albany Police Department press release about the incident:

At approximately 1:10 a.m. James Kehoe, 25, was attempting to make a food delivery for Soho Pizza to 172 Jay Street. He was approached on the street by the first suspect who told him "hold on my brother will be right out with the money". A second suspect came from across the street and wrapped his arm around the victim's throat and threw him to the ground. A third suspect then walked up behind Kehoe and placed what appeared to be a handgun to his neck and told him not to scream or he would get shot. The first suspect then reached into Kehoe's pockets and stole his money and cell phone.

The APD says the suspects fled the scene after getting the money and phone. A search of the area, including a sweep by a K-9 team, came up empty.

You might not think that being a food delivery person is a dangerous job, but attacks on them are not uncommon in Albany and other Capital Region cities. In fact, there have been six incidents just this year.

Concerned and curious about about the frequency and locations of these attacks, we gathered reports of the crimes from the past four years, organized them by date, and mapped them.

(there's more)

Slices at Pizza King

pizza king slice broccoli ricotta

A broccoli ricotta slice from Pizza King.

By Daniel B.

This is a town where pizza loyalties run deep.

For some, they've been going to The Fountain since they were a kid, and to these folks that is the very definition of pizza, no others need apply. Depending on the neighborhood you grew up in, The Fountain could be replaced by The Orchard, Smitty's, The Purple Pub, DeFazio's, Popes, Ralph's, etcetera.

Others have come here from downstate, and are continually frustrated that nothing they try even comes close to the pizza heaven they've left behind. Luckily, I don't think we host a major population of displaced Chicagoans or New Havenites. Nor do we have a lot of people hankering for the Old Forge pizza they remember growing up in Pennsylvania.

So with all of these considerations, how can I possibly put one slice above all the rest? Especially when it failed to win the Tournament of Pizza (in which it competed three times)? Well, there are several reasons. But there is one thing that clearly sets Pizza King apart from the rest of the pack, and that is focus.

(there's more)

The story behind the little anti-frackers

little anti-fracker rally

A rally of little anti-frackers.

After tracking the spread of the little anti-fracking protests from Schenectady to Albany to Troy, we now know who's behind the tiny campaign.

Her name's Nancy. She's from Schenectady. She outed herself in a comment last week -- and we followed up with a few questions...

(there's more)

Scouting the places beyond the pines

place beyond the pines location inquiryThere were a few reports this week that pre-production crews for The Place Beyond the Pines, the movie starring Ryan Gosling and Bradley Cooper, were scouting locations around the Schenectady area.

Jason tweeted that the film's director, Derek Cianfrance, actually stopped by his house Thursday. And @BUNKRE shared the flyer a location scout had left on his house in the Old Niskayuna neighborhood. That's the flyer on the right -- there's a bigger version after the jump.

The flyer says crews are "tentatively scheduled" to film in the neighborhood sometime in September. And the description of the film:

Luke [Ryan Gosling] is a professional motorcycle rider who turns to bank robberies to support his newborn son. But when he crosses paths with a rookie police officer [Bradley Cooper] their violent confrontation spirals into a tense generational feud. THE PLACE BEYOND THE PINES is a rich dramatic thriller that traces the intersecting lives of fathers and sons, cops and robbers, heroes and villains.

It's not any more far-fetched than Angelina Jolie jumping from trucks while being chased by the CIA with the Albany skyline in the background.

By the way: the name Schenectady comes from a Mohawk word that roughly means "beyond the pine plains."

(there's more)

Say "Schenectady"

INT. GOOGLE MARKETING CONFERENCE ROOM
A MARKETING EXECUTIVE is sitting at a conference table with a staff of marketers.

MARKETING EXECUTIVE
We need a city name that a lot of people will recognize, but one that they'd never be able to spell if their lives depended on it.

(there's more)

Tiny protests against fracking

Abby was in Schenectady Sunday for the Greenmarket and noticed these tiny fracking protestors. She says there were dozens of them hiding around the State Street/Jay Street area.

A bunch of the tiny anti-frackers are after the jump.

As Abby said in an email: "Yes, had too much fun finding these..."

(there's more)

Very Important (scientific) People

ge research vip book thumbnailGE has posted images from the guest book for the company's original research center in Schenectady (GE Global Research is now in Niskayuna):

While its beginnings were humble, it didn't take long for scientists and inventors from around the world to flock to the Research Lab to see what GE was working on. And each famous mind that visited would stop at Willis Whitney's desk to sign the VIP guest book. The book sat at Whitney's desk from 1914 to 1935, and the signatures are a veritable Who's Who of inventors, physicists, chemists, physiologists, and businessmen -- including 9 Nobel Laureates.

The collection of people who stopped by the place during its first years is remarkable. Among the names signed in the book: Bohr, Marconi, Pavlov.

photo: GE Reports

Schenectady County Horticulture Education Center

Horticulture Center Seedling

By Liz Clancy Lerner

Good things come from the Schenectady County Horticulture Education Center.

Good in the form of thousands of flowering plants that go back into the community, job training for adults who need assistance, and horticultural classes for the general public.

It's tucked away in Schenectady's Central Park, but its impact on the community is everywhere. And you can be involved too.

(there's more)

For sale: the "oldest" house in Schenectady

oldest house in schenectady maybe

When you're 284-years-old, what's a decade-or-two age difference.

oldest house in schenectady maybe markerThe "reputed oldest house" in the city of Schenectady -- the 284-year-old (or so) Yates House in the Stockade -- is for sale. The list price: $389,000.

Apparently there's some question as to whether the Yates House is actually the oldest house in Schenectady. The Brouwer house on North Church Street might be a few decades older. Researchers from the Cornell Tree-Ring Lab concluded the Yates House was built sometime in 1727 or 1728, based on core samples take from beams in the basement. (In the same study they report the oldest part of the Brouwer House dates to 1730.)

The Yates House has been added on to many times. It's now 3,462 square feet with four bedrooms and a "large eat in kitchen," according to its real estate listing.

Update April 13: The Times Union talked with the owner of the house.

Earlier on AOA:
+ Getting reacquainted with Schenectady's Stockade
+ The oldest building in Albany?
+ The oldest house in Saratoga Springs

Getting reacquainted with Schenectady's Stockade

stockade lawrence

Meet Lawrence.

By Akum Norder

I'm passionate about my Albany neighborhood. It takes a lot for me to imagine living somewhere else.

But you know what? The Stockade's enough to make me wonder.

When a 200-year-old Schenectady Stockade home recently lost part of its front wall, apparently a victim of water damage from melting snow and ice, it made me consider that I hadn't been over there in a while. A two-hour walk in the neighborhood's springtime sunlight made me remember: The Stockade is one of the Capital Region's superlative neighborhoods. It's a jewel. And it should be a source of pride for our whole region.

(there's more)

5 places to check out on Upper Union Street

Union Upper Union Big

By Liz Clancy Lerner

Albany's got Lark. Saratoga has Broadway. And Troy's got River. So what about Schenectady's walkable hub of shopping and dining?

With Proctors, the Greenmarket and a handful of restaurants - downtown is great. But when I'm looking to get some food, pick up gifts, and get errands done, my vote's for Upper Union Street. Thanks to efforts by local business owners and the Upper Union Street BID, the strip has grown into a lineup of unique, locally-owned stores run by passionate people.

Here are five places worth checking out...

(there's more)

"Polish Wednesday" at the State Street Station

train diner lunch

Mniam mniam.

By Akum Norder

Doug Cath, by his own admission, is "only a little bit" Polish.

So in some sense it follows that his diner, the State Street Station in Schenectady, offers "only a little bit" of Polish food -- only one day out of seven.

We dropped in recently for Polish Wednesday at the State Street Station.

(there's more)

Standing before the post office boxes in Schenectady

schenectady post office box closeupWe stopped into the downtown Schenectady post office this week and had to take a moment to admire the banks of old-school post office boxes. We imagine the brass doors swing open with a meaningful weight and close with a satisfying click. (Sadly, the user experience of AOA's P.O. box at 12203 is rather less notable.)

The Schenectady post office is a grand building that's on the National Register of Historic Places. It was originally constructed in 1912 for $125,000 -- about $2.7 million in today's dollars (which seems like a steal). It was later expanded in 1933, and renovated in the 1960s.

One of the great things about standing before these rows of boxes is that they feel like the tangible interface to a fantastic system.

(there's more)

The code for reservations

aperitivo qr codeThat business card to the right is for Aperitivo Bistro in Schenectady. And the blocky graphic on the card is a QR code (yes, we know you know, but other people might not). If you scan the code with your phone (you might need an app), it takes you to Aperitivo's OpenTable reservation page.

QR codes have been touted as the next big thing (or at least a next thing) for a few years now. This is the first time we've seen a local restaurant use one this way (we bet there are more). On a mobile it is easier than typing in a url (not so much on regular computer).

Lou dropped a great comment explaining more about QR codes a few months back.

Earlier on AOA: "The funky tags"

The eggplant sandwich at Peter Pause

Peter Pause eggplant sandwich

You're going to need a napkin.

By Daniel B

This is not a sandwich.

Let's be clear, the entire purpose of a sandwich is to be held in the hand so that it can be eaten with relative ease and tidiness. Please allow me to assure you that any attempt to do this with the eggplant sandwich at Peter Pause is a recipe for disaster.

This sandwich requires a knife and fork. It may also require a fair bit of advanced planning, because while Peter Pause is for everybody, they don't make it easy for people outside of Schenectady to enjoy this regional treasure.

(there's more)

The Schenectady Silly Putty Mystery

Silly Putty Exhibit

It first bounced in Schenectady... we're pretty sure.

By Liz Clancy Lerner

Remember Silly Putty? The rubbery stuff, in the egg?

It stretches, it bounces, it copies pictures out of comic books.

Yeah, that stuff.

It was invented in Schenectady!

Unless it wasn't.

But it probably was.

Like most stories of invention, the one behind Silly Putty has its competing claims. But a new exhibit at the Schenectady Museum traces the wonderful rubbery substance to a failed experiment at a GE lab in Schenectady.

(there's more)

"Philly Steak" at Morrette's

Morrettes Composite

Filling up on potato skins is a rookie mistake.

By Liz Clancy Lerner

It's Forget the Resolution week on AOA: a whole lineup of foods that can send your New Year's resolution to eat better/eat less/exercise more/lose weight to its timely end.

Nothing says "I'm sick of this diet" like eating a pound of beef covered in cheese. Well, unless you're on the Atkins diet.

So if that's the case, add a side of fried potato skins drenched in cheese sauce and bacon and you've got yourself a meal suitable for Forget the Resolution week.

I found this spread at Morrette's -- the local landmark in Schenectady.

(there's more)

It's official: Stratton leaving for Cuomo admin

The Cuomo administration officially announced this morning that Schenectady mayor Brian Stratton has been tapped to head up the the New York State Canal Corporation.

The announcement came bundled with three other appointments -- the relevant portion of the release is after the jump.

(there's more)

Schenectady, GE and Ronald Reagan

The Schenectady Museum pops up tonight in the HBO documentary about Ronald Reagan -- it serves as a backdrop for an interview with author Thomas Evans, who's written about Reagan's experience with GE. The not-yet-president served as a spokesman for the company from 1954-1962, and his time with the company is credited with shaping some of his conservatism.

Reagan's work with GE brought him to Schenectady a few times. At least one of the visits to the Capital Region doesn't seem to have been too pleasant -- from a letter he wrote to Nancy Reagan from the Hotel Van Curler in Schenectady (now an SCCC building) one snowy April day in 1960:

Now you might think [the snow storm] would curtail some of our activities -- but think not so. Nothing interferes with one of these d-n "nut & bolt" fiestas.
We arrived around 4:30 pm Sunday and by 7:30 were at a Country Club (Country Club??) for dinner with various and sundry G.E. executives (half the party were stalled around the country side & never made it) But we made it and in the meantime had showered, changed clothes gone to two radio stations for interviews and appeared on one TV program. And this was a leisurely three hours compared to the schedule that began Mon. morning with a press breakfast at 8 A.M. Try this with your shoes filled with snow.
It is, with some justification, I believe that I now employ my full register of eloquence to say -- "I have had it!"
Tonite I address a banquet of "execs" (G.E.) here in Schenectady -- and incidentally I resent it because this is my 3rd speech in this d-n town. I get in N.Y. tomorrow at noon and will film "opening & closings" all afternoon. But rest assured of one thing -- only you have seen this bitter side. I have been a smiling picture of grace and warmth throughout each 18 hour day.

Everybody gets cranky when they have snow in their shoes.

Letter excerpt from I Love You, Ronnie: The Letters of Ronald Reagan to Nancy Reagan.

Muddy Cups no longer

By Akum Norder

Formerly known as Muddy Cup.

Albany's unnamed coffee house has finally settled on a name.

The cafe, on Madison Avenue near Main, took down the Muddy Cup name last fall. After a brief flirtation with the name "Drama Cup," it's now Tierra Coffee Roasters.

The name echoes the fact that their coffee is from Tierra Farm, a Valatie operation that roasts Fair Trade coffees. It's catchier than "that place that used to be the Muddy Cup." Shorter, too.

The Muddy Cup had a dusty bohemian vibe. As Tierra, it's been spiffed up with a new coat of paint and art by Samson Contompasis.

And with Proctors Theatre taking over the Muddy Cup in Schenectady, the Hudson Valley chain's local presence is no more.

Muddy Cup opened the Proctors lobby cafe in 2006.

Proctors' plan is to run the Schenectady place itself. From their press release:

"At Proctors request, Muddy Cup transferred operations and all equipment back to Proctors. Proctors will rebrand the location for business with a fresh look and a new name before the start of next Sunday's Green Market in the lobby of Proctors State Street complex."

Update: The location at Proctors will be called the Apostrophe Cafe. [Marv Cermak]

A tour of the Casa Visco factory

Casa Visco Label On
By Liz Clancy Lerner

When people think of eating locally, they often picture farmers' markets and road-side stands, but there's this whole other world of regional fare: local manufacturers of food.

Casa Visco is family-run tomato sauce company in Schenectady. Carmella and Joseph Viscusi, Sr. started the company as a small wholesale grocery in 1945. The first sauce "factory" was in their basement. Today, Casa Visco makes 30 varieties of tomato sauce (including a kid's sauce, an allergen-free sauce and a fat-free sauce).

Cousins Adine and Michael Viscusi are the third generation to manage the company. On a recent visit to their factory, they showed us how their sauce goes from tomato to jar...

(there's more)

Barack Obama's visit to Schenectady, take two

Thumbnail image for obama hvcc feed picThe White House sent out the schedule for Barack Obama's (re)planned visit to Schenectady this Friday. From the press release:

WASHINGTON--On Friday, January 21, 2011, President Barack Obama will travel to Schenectady, NY, to visit the birthplace of General Electric and deliver remarks on the economy. He will depart Schenectady later the same day. The arrival and departure of Air Force One in Albany, NY, is open to pre-credentialed media and closed to the public.
The President will then travel to the General Electric Plant in Schenectady, home to GE's largest energy division, including steam turbines, generators, wind and solar, and the future home of GE's advanced battery manufacturing facility. The President will tour the site with GE CEO Jeffrey Immelt and he will make remarks on the importance of growing the economy and making America more competitive by investing in jobs, innovation and clean energy. The President's remarks are open to the press, but space is limited. Public attendance at this event is by invitation only. [AOA adds: we've heard there was a lottery for GE employees to attend.]
The GE plant in Schenectady is a direct beneficiary of GE's power turbine deal with India announced during the President's trip last November.

As with the previously planned visit, the POTUS will not be in the Capital Region very long -- just about two hours. Air Force One is scheduled to arrive at ALB around noon. The President is scheduled to speak at GE around 1 pm. And AF1 is scheduled to take off again around 2 pm.

Details on Barack Obama's Schenectady visit

obama at hvccUpdate update: There are now details for the rescheduled visit.

Update: The visit has been postponed because of the shooting in Arizona. The White House says it expects to reschedule the event.
____

Hot off the email press release we got from the White House this afternoon:

On Tuesday, January 11, President Obama will travel to Schenectady, New York to visit the birthplace of General Electric.
The site is home to GE's largest energy division, including steam turbines, generators, wind and solar, and the future home of GE's advanced battery manufacturing facility. The President will tour the site with GE CEO Jeffrey Immelt and he will make remarks on the importance of growing the economy and making America more competitive by investing in jobs, innovation and clean energy.
The GE plant in Schenectady is a direct beneficiary of GE's power turbine deal with India announced during the President's trip last November.

The POTUS won't be here long -- his stop in the Capital Region is scheduled for just under two hours. The (very short) schedule after the jump.

(there's more)

Barack Obama coming to Schenectady

air force one taxi

Air Force Once at ALB during Barack's Obama's last visit here.

Update: The TU reports the President will be visiting the GE campus, most likely the new battery plant being constructed there.

_____

The word going around this afternoon is that Barack Obama will be visiting next Tuesday. All the reports are based on unnamed "sources." [TU] [Daily Gazette]

The purpose of the visit is still unclear, but all the speculation is focused on some sort of GE-related thing. WTEN reports the "the governor's office" confirmed the POTUS will visit a GE facility. [WTEN]

Of course, President Obama visited the Capital Region in September 2009 and spoke at HVCC.

photo: Amy Mengel

Schools in Albany, Schenectady on "persistently lowest performing" list

Thumbnail image for Albany High SchoolThree local schools are on the "persistently lowest performing" list released today by the state education department: Albany's high school and Hackett Middle School; and Schenectady High School.

All three of these schools are up for "registration review," which requires them to implement a "major intervention" to turn them around (there's funding that goes along with these interventions). There are four intervention models: turnaround, restart, transformation and closure.

This is the second year in a row Albany High School has been tagged on this list. In July the state released a report that painted a harsh picture of the school. In September, the school district announced that the school would be broken up into four "themed academies" starting next school year.

Albany High School had a 53 percent graduation rate in 2009, according to state figures. Schenectady High School's rate was 56 percent.

It's hard to overstate the importance of improving these schools. First and foremost, the students deserve better. But the quality of these schools is also a key part of the health of Albany and Schenectady. It's anecdotal, sure, but we know a bunch of people who have moved out of Albany (or plan to) because of the schools (we'd actually like to see research on this question). A schools turnaround could go a long way to toward improving the overall health of the city -- by providing students with better opportunities, and holding onto to families who would otherwise leave.

Earlier on AOA:
+ Capital Region high school graduation rates 2009
+ Projected Capital Region school district per-pupil spending
+ Capital Region elementary school test scores

Off-roading with one wheel

This is fun: Sebastien's posted video from an off-road unicycle race through Schenectady's Central Park a few months back (above).

There are more details and photos at his site.

Some of the unicyclists who rode this Schenectady course were part of the group that rode coast-to-coast across Panama in 2009. You might recognize Roland Kays, the curator of mammals at the State Museum -- he's involved in the Cooking the Tree of Life series, and he talked with AOA about his research on fishers.

Pictures for a song about Schenectady

A while back we mentioned the song "Schenectady" by the Brooklyn alt-country band Yarn. The group recently recorded a video for the song, which was shot in Schenectady:

The song was written by Yarn's frontman, Blake Christiana, who grew up in Schenectady. As the band notes on its Facebook page for the song: "The lyrics are less then complimentary and are not intended to beat up on Schenectady, but rather to express what Blake's feelings were while writing the song. We encourage reaction of any sort."

The song appears Yarn's album Come On In, which was released earlier this year.

(Thanks, kert!)

When pizza chefs get weird

pizza king shop smallYou wouldn't be able to make this up: Djovalin Camaj -- AKA John Camaj, AKA The Pizza King of Schenectady -- was arrested last week by the Montgomery County Sheriff's department for allegedly blocking a roadway to a Buddhist shrine in Auriesville and then later allegedly posing as a member of the sheriff's department. [Daily Gazette] [YNN]

But, wait, it (allegedly) gets weirder. From the (Gloversville) Leader-Herald:

Undersheriff Jeffery Smith said today that Serpa charged Camaj with trespassing after the man admitted erecting the roadblock that consisted of a portable orange road construction sign, several yards of orange string, a smashed jar of peppers, a jar of Yoga brand peaches, two campaign signs and a small statue of a pizza chef.

You know, we thought Camaj's decision to enter his chicken marsala pizza in the final of the 2008 Tournament of Pizza was a bit odd. Obviously, this resets the bar.

A Buddhist org called the World Peace and Health Organization has been buying up properties around Amsterdam as part of a large scale development plan.

Update April 22, 2011: Camaj has pleaded guilty to disorderly conduct. [Daily Gazette]

This Schenectady Life

steven raucci mug shotThis week's episode of This American Life will focus on the Steven Raucci case in Schenectady. From the blurb for the ep, appropriately titled "Petty Tyrants":

In Schenectady, NY, a school maintenance man named Steve Raucci works his way up the ranks for 30 years, until finally he's in charge of the maintenance department. That's when he starts messing with his employees. Teasing them at meetings. Punishing them with crummy work assignments. Or worse things, like secretly slashing their tires in the middle of the night.

TAL airs on WAMC Friday night at 8 pm and Saturday at 4 pm. You can also listen -- and download -- online.

Earlier this year, TAL focused on the broken New York State budget.

(Thanks, everyone!)

photo via This American Life

The world's first television drama

Queens-Messenger1.jpg

The cast of the world's first television drama, on set in Schenectady.

Here's a little something to think about while you're watching Mad Men on one of the hundreds of channels on your HDTV: The very first television drama was filmed in Schenectady in 1928.

It was a little play called The Queen's Messenger, a British drama with more special effects technicians than there were television sets in the Capital Region.

More on how it was filmed, plus a neat clip that shows how it worked, after the jump.

(there's more)

TOP 2010: The Final

TOP2010 the final

It's time for the match we've all been waiting for: the final of the 2010 Tournament of Pizza, sponsored by Sunmark Federal Credit Union. We have quite an impressive pair of competitors in this final matchup:

Troy champ DeFazio's vs. Schenectady champ Marino's

First, how we got here. DeFazio's edged out Nunzio's 62-59 and Marino's ended Pasquale's incredible run with a 69-66 victory.

Unlike in previous rounds, the two pizzerias get to pick the pies they enter in the final. Steve visited the two shops this week and their choices look great:

DeFazio's
A whole-wheat crust pizza with spinach, sausage, kalamata olives, roasted red pepper pesto, fresh mozzarella and Pecorino Romano cheese.

Marino's
A classic pizza with sausage, peppers and onions.

Let's eat some pizza.

sunmark pizza banner

(there's more)

In the kitchen with the TOP finalists

Check it out: Steve visited the two finalists in the 2010 Tournament of Pizza -- DeFazio's in Troy and Marino's in Schenectady -- to find out which pizzas they'll be entering in the final showdown. This video will make you hungry:

Bold choice by DeFazio's going with the whole wheat crust. And how about the way Mario from Marino's tosses that dough?

Thanks to Steve and the two pizzerias for joining in on the fun! And many thanks to Jennifer Gish for her help.

sunmark pizza banner

The 2010 Tournament of Pizza is sponsored by Sunmark Federal Credit Union, which now offers banking from mobile devices. They even have an app for iPhones and Android phones.

Earlier on AOA: TOP 2010: The Semi-finals

TOP 2010: Round 2: Schenectady

TOP2010 RD2 schenectady

The second round of the 2010 Tournament of Pizza, sponsored by Sunmark Federal Credit Union, heads back to Schenectady. And we have quite the matchup in this round of sausage pizzas:

Marino's Flying vs. Pizza King

First, how we got here: Marino's Flying scored a solid victory over Fireside 71-59 and Pizza King topped Johnny C's 64-46.

There's some serious TOP history here in Round 2 Schenectady. Pizza King placed second in the entire tournament in 2008 -- but it was upset by Marino's Flying in the first round last year. Marino's then went on to win the bracket.

So, let's get to it. We head back to the fragrant Anthology Design Studio for the tasting...

sunmark pizza banner

(there's more)

TOP 2010: Round 1: Schenectady

TOP2010 RD1 Schenectady

Round 1 of the Tournament of Pizza, sponsored by Sunmark Federal Credit Union, rolls on to Schenectady. The matchups in this cheesy first round:

Fireside vs. Marino's Flying Pizza

Johnny C's vs. Pizza King

Lots of drama in this bracket. Marino's was the surprise winner last year, but it's up against a time-tested favorite in Fireside. And Pizza King, the 2008 overall tournament runner up, is looking for redemption from last year's first round upset. Or will Johnny C's represent for Rotterdam?

Let's eat some pizza! The judges gathered at the elegant and fresh Anthology Design Studio on State Street in Schenectady for the tasting...

sunmark pizza banner

(there's more)

Romeo the Peacock still runs free in Schenectady

Schenectady peacock sightingIt appears that Romeo, the peripatetic peacock of Schenectady, is still on the loose. Another sighting popped up on Craigslist yesterday, along with a photo (right).

Earlier postings indicated that peacock had left his Juliet at home on Maxon Road and gone for a walkabout in early August. It sounds like he's been sticking around the neighborhood north of Union College. This latest sighting had him at Foster Ave and Gerling Street. And a comment here on AOA last week by SB also had him sighted him on Foster.

(Thanks, Arielle!)

Earlier on AOA: Peacock on the lam in Schenectady

photo: Craigslist peacock item 2010-09-06

Peacock on the lam in Schenectady

peacockA few people have posted on Craigslist this week that they've seen a peacock wandering the area around Union College in Schenectady (map). From a posting on Sunday:

Just before sunset this evening I realized one of my cats was staring insanely at the roof of my very tall garage. To my surprise, the cat was staring at an almost mature (or quite under-nourished) peacock. He seemed undisturbed by the neighbors, but took off as soon as my stupid camera made a noise.

Two other postings reported sightings north of campus, including a stroll across Van Vranken Ave. And yet another reports the peacock's name is "Romeo" and he's from a home on Maxon Road (where his "Juliet" awaits -- we so hope that posting's true).

We'd love to hear if Romeo makes it back home.

As it happens, this isn't the first peripatetic peacock in Schenectady County this summer. In June, one of the birds was on the lam in Rotterdam. [Daily Gazette]

photo (of another peacock, not Romeo): Paul Friel (Flickr user frielp)

Raucci sentenced to 23 years to life

A few quick bits from the flurry of coverage:

Steven Raucci's total sentence is 23 years to life. [YNN]

That's 20 years for the arson conviction + one to three years for coercion. [CBS6]

A 15-year sentence for criminal possession of weapon will be served concurrently with the other sentences. [WTEN]

The sentence was preceded by emotional victim impact statements. Said one of the victims: "Let him live the nightmare that the victims have endured." [Daily Gazette] [TU]

More local Refresh grant winners

contemporary artists center panorama

The Contemporary Artists Center in Troy

Check it out: three more local projects are in line to get $50,000 Pepsi Refresh grants.

+ The Contemporary Artists Center is getting funding to renovate its complex in Troy.

+ The Center For Disability Services and C-R Productions (at the Cohoes Music Hall) are launching a program that will "enrich the lives of 30 people with disabilities through the exploration of performing arts."

+ The Boys and Girls Club of Schenectady is building a playground and garden in Hamilton Hill.

Two Capital Region projects have already received $50k grants from this program -- The Foundry in Cohoes and former UAlbany football player Danny Bocanegra's SelflessTee.

There's now a Facebook page that's tracking and organizing support for Capital Region groups looking to score Refresh grant.

Here are a few that are still seeking grants:

+ The Sabre Companies, based in Slingerlands, is trying for $250k so it can build a prototype playground that can generate electricity to run water pumps in developing countries.

+ Art n Soul Inc is looking for $50k to produce videos of artists talking about their work.

Also: Capital District Community Gardens is hoping to win $50k from an organic food company for its Produce Project. And Victory Christian Church pastor Charlie Muller won a $10k grant from the Pine-sol Powerful Difference Contest.

(Thanks, Annmarie!)

photo: CAC

The voice of Edison via shaking light sound

thomas edison pallophotophoneDead or near-dead media formats: wax cylinders, 8-tracks, cassettes, floppy discs, CDs (almost) and... the pallophotophone.

The pallophotowhat?

From the GE Reports blog:

A pile of dusty film canisters in the basement of the Schenectady Museum & Suits-Bueche Planetarium has yielded some of the world's oldest surviving radio broadcasts. The 20 shows were first heard on Schenectady radio station WGY between 1929 and 1931. One features a talk by GE founder Thomas Edison in a broadcast celebrating the 50th anniversary of the incandescent light bulb. Another is a portion of a high school basketball game that's believed to be the second oldest surviving sports broadcast.
They were recorded on a long forgotten machine that GE developed in 1922 called a pallophotophone -- after the Greek words for "shaking light sound" -- in one of the earliest attempts to record sound on film. But there was only one catch with the great find: There weren't any known pallophotophones in existence to play back the lost pieces of history.
Enter the museum's curator, Chris Hunter, and GE's engineers, who together cracked the pallophotophone code.

How? The engineers built a whole new machine out of modern parts to read the media.

The post includes a photo of the new machine and audio from one of the Edison recordings.

Earlier on AOA: The new old Daily Gazette

photo: Schenectady Museum via GE Reports

Timothy's World Market in Schenectady

Timothy's sign

Timothy's -- your one stop shop for goat and cricket bats.

By Jessica Pasko

Back when I compiled the AOA Ethnic Market Compendium a commenter pointed out that I'd missed some great Guyanese markets in Schenectady.

Schenectady has a pretty big Guyanese population, one that former Mayor Albert Jurczynski worked to help develop . The city now has a chapter of the Guyanese American Association and a whole bunch of Guyanese markets.

I took a drive out to the Electric City yesterday to check some of them out for myself. This was both a good idea and a bad idea.

(there's more)

Mexican Radio coming to Schenectady

mexican radio hudsonSteve reported this weekend that Mexican Radio will be opening a location in Schenectady, address to be announced. The owner tells the Gazette's Jessica Harding that they were "seriously considering" Albany, but ended up liking "the vibe" in Schenectady.

Mexican Radio's first location opened in Manhattan in the 90s. Its second location, on Warren Street in Hudson, opened in 2003 (photos).

We've eaten at the Hudson location a few times -- it was pretty good. Jess is a big fan of the flan there. The Yelpers have been generally favorable (seemingly the most consistent complaint: price).

Oh, yeah: Sonic tells the Gazette's Ameerah Cetawayo that a Capital Region location is "only just a matter of time." Currently, the closest Sonic location is in Kingston.

Earlier on AOA: Flan at Mexican Radio

photo: Mexican Radio

Paterson says he never promised to not lay off state workers, Paladino into the pool for governor, police officers suspended, local family going to White House for Easter egg roll

David Paterson on the deal he struck with the state worker unions last year to trade the new, cheaper pension tier for a no-layoffs pledge: "I never promised I would not lay anyone off." Appearing at an Easter egg hunt in Albany Sunday, the governor said: "it's time for everyone to make a sacrifice." [TU] [WNYT]

Buffalo-area real estate developer Carl Paladino is scheduled to announce this afternoon that he's running for governor as a Republican. He says he's willing to spend $10 million of his own money on the campaign. If he elected, he said: "I will chop and I will chop their budget until they stop their nonsense." The Buffalo news describes Paladino as "outspoken" and "a man of contradictions." [YNN] [AP/Troy Record] [AP/Troy Record] [Buffalo News]

An employee of the state Department of Labor has apparently been assigned to sit at home and call into the office twice a day -- at a salary of $115k/year. [TU]

A Rotterdam family has reached a $5.2 million settlement with two obstetricians and Albany Med over a mother's death following a Caesarean section. The family's attorney said the death was caused by a "cascade of errors." As part of the settlement, Albany Med is funding a 20-year lecture series on patient safety and is investing in equipment for additional training. More than a third of births in New York State are via C-section. [Daily Gazette $] [WTEN] [TU] [TU]

The 12-year-old girl authorities said was forced by her mother to climb through pet doors to assist in robberies, in her victim impact statement: "Tell my mom that I will never forgive her." [TU]

(there's more)

Steven Raucci guilty on 18 counts

Update: YNN has posted video of the verdict being read in the court room.

Update: The TU's Lauren Stanforth has a detailed breakdown of the counts.

The verdict just came back. WTEN reports he was found NOT guilty on the terrorism charge. CBS6 has a rundown of all the counts.

A melancholy Schenectady

schenectady song by yarnWe came across this song called "Schenectady" by the Brooklyn-based alt-country band Yarn this week (you can hear the song at that first link). From the lyrics:

I see people go crazy Get lazy when their life Ain't got nothing to lose

You're better off dyin
Then whining
Cause this towns got too many of you

Oh Schenectady
I've been waiting so long for you to comfort
But that boy has moved on
Oh I can't escape the past, no
And I won't forget the truth, no
Schenectady
I am you

The song was written by Yarn's frontman, Blake Christiana, who grew up in Schenectady. As the band notes on the Facebook page for the song: "The lyrics are less then complimentary and are not intended to beat up on Schenectady, but rather to express what Blake's feelings were while writing the song. We encourage reaction of any sort." The song is on the band's upcoming album, called Come On In.

[via... someone... we forget who... it was on Twitter... sorry]

image: "Schenectady" Facebook page

Many questions in teacher's death, deliberations start in Raucci trial, what happens in Vegas stays on Facebook

Police near Buffalo say there are still many unanswered questions surrounding the shooting death of Albany elementary school teacher David Park. The attorney for the homeowner who fired the shot said his client and wife were "terrorized" during the episode and were protecting themselves. The principal at Arbor Hill Elementary, where Park taught, said he "exemplifies everything you're looking for in a teacher." One of Park's co-workers said the "whole faculty is devastated." [Buffalo News] [WTEN] [TU] [YNN]

Steven Raucci trial Jurors have begun deliberations. During closing arguments, Raucci's attorney used a bag of plastic Easter eggs to represent doubts about the prosecution's case. Schenectady County DA Bob Carney urged jurors to send the message that "street justice is no substitute for real justice in a court of law." [Fox23] [TU] [Daily Gazette $]

The stepson of Virginia Gratto Utigard told WTEN that his stepmother "is wound differently than anyone I've ever met and I wish I'd never met her." [WTEN]

The SUNY Board of Trustees voted again to close the New Covenant charter school in Albany, this time 6-0 with four abstentions. Four hundred students about $3 million in funding could be headed back to the Albany school district. [SUNY] [TU]

This week in Which Way Northway? State police say a man led troopers on a chase from Exit 13 to Exit 8 Saturday night. And on Sunday, state police say a man drove south in the northbound lane at Exit 10 and hit a tractor trailer. Police say the man's blood alcohol level was more than three times the legal limit. [TU] [TU] [Fox23] [YNN]

(there's more)

Local elementary school teacher shot and killed in Buffalo, McCaffrey leaving Siena for Iowa, state budget will almost certainly be late, a seven-year-old philanthropist

An Albany elementary school teacher was shot and killed in a Buffalo suburb this past weekend. Police there say the man appears to have gone into the wrong house and was shot by the homeowner -- though they some of the details are unclear. The Albany school district says the man was "a loved and respected teacher with a strong commitment to his students and their families." [TU] [CBS6] [Buffalo News] [Fox23]

Schenectady police say two men were shot and killed in Hamilton Hill Friday night (map). The SPD says there was a crowd on the scene and it appears there had been some sort of argument -- though it's not sure whether the victims were at odds or on the same side. [Daily Gazette $] [WNYT] [TU]

Siena men's basketball coach Fran McCaffery is leaving to become the head coach at Iowa. McCaffery's teams were 112-51 at Siena and went to the NCAA tournament three times. [Iowa press release] [TU]

Local state legislators says GlobalFoundries request for another $300 million in state subsidies for the Luther Forest chip fab will have a tough time. GloFo says it wants expand capacity at the not-yet-open facility to include the world's largest clean room. [TU] [Daily Gazette $]

Steven Raucci Trial Closing arguments are expected today. On Friday, a CSEA union leader took the stand as a defense witness. The testimony continued didn't seem to help the union get out from under the negative light cast by the case. [Daily Gazette $] [TU] [TU]

A daughter-in-law of Virginia Bellerose Gratto Utigard, the sole survivor of a Cohoes fire that killed eight people 32 years ago, says Gratto Utigard went to Washington State a few weeks post-fire after receiving a sympathy card from a man there. She ended up marrying the man's brother a week later. Gratto Utigard's brother said last week that his sister was "absolutely not" capable of setting of fire. [TU] [Troy Record] [WTEN]

(there's more)

Attorney says hit-and-run suspect feared for his life, possible development in decades-old arson case, GloFo looking for more state money, warm spring tough on maple syrup producers

The attorney for Travis Carroll, the man who allegedly drove the car involved in the fatal hit-and-run on Henry Street in Saratoga, says his client was fleeing the situation because he feared for his life after a fight. Carroll's attorney says his client had been beaten with a belt buckle and threatened with a knife. Saratoga Springs police and Carroll's attorney differ on the amount of time that separated the fight and the car collision. Police alleged that Carroll removed the damaged windshield from his car shortly after the collision in attempt to hide the evidence. Carroll's been charged with two felonies -- leaving the scene of an accident and tampering with evidence. [Post-Star] [Fox23] [Saratogian] [TU] [WNYT] [YNN]

Local investigators are reportedly in Washington State to pursue leads in a suspected case of arson that killed seven children and a father in Cohoes in 1978. The lone survivor of that fire -- the mother and wife of the victims -- now lives there and says she was questioned by investigators. The woman, Virgina Utigard (formerly Virginia Gratto), told a Spokane television station KXLY that she was pressured into a signing a confession. Utigard reportedly told KXLY that her relationship with her first husband had been abusive. [TU] [Daily Gazette archive] [Troy Record] [KXLY] [WTEN]

Steven Raucci trial Day 18 A state police forensic scientist testified that DNA found one of the unexploded bombs matched DNA collected from Steven Raucci. And FBI employees testified that devices allegedly used by Raucci were much more powerful than firecrackers. [TU] [Daily Gazette $]

David Paterson reportedly was involved with drafting a statement the he hoped would be issued by the woman who accused his former aide of domestic abuse. The woman reportedly refused to go along with the statement, which indicated the incident was non-violent. [NYT] [NYDN]

GlobalFoundries is reportedly asking New York State for $300 million more in incentives so it can add extra capacity to the Luther Forest chip fab. [TU]

(there's more)

Schenectady Art Attack

schenectady light bulbThis first Schenectady Art Attack is this weekend in (where else) downtown Schenectady. What's an "art attack?" From the brochure:

The Schenectady Art Attack is an attempt to bring hundreds of creative people together for a weekend to display their visions of what the world is and could be. We have invited painters, poets, musicians, wood workers, film makers, writers, photographers and others to attack the city with their collective artistic power to invigorate the city and its inhabitants.

We hear from the organizers that there will be live music, photos from 20 photographers, films by local directors such as Mike Feurstein and Román Jáquez. And... chainsaw carving.

The event runs Saturday 10-6 and Sunday 11-5. It's free. You can pick up a brochure with maps and info at Schenectady City Hall.

One in five living in poverty in Albany, Schdy, Troy; pressure on Murphy from all sides, state running out of cash, North Greenbush kid gets lead role on Broadway

New York State's poverty rate is 14 percent, according to a report from the New York State Community Action Association. More than 20 percent of the people in Albany, Schenectady and Troy live in poverty. And about one third of children in those cities live in poverty. Of the four core Capital Region counties, Saratoga had the lowest poverty rate at 6.9 percent. The poverty line for a family of four is $22,000. [NYSCAA] [Daily Gazette $] [TU] [Troy Record] [YNN]

As David Paterson's World Turns The governor said yesterday that he did not try to convince Sherr-una Booker to drop her domestic violence case against David Johnson. Paterson also said Kirsten Gillibrand threw him under the bus when she said he should resign if the allegations against him turn out to be true. Also yesterday: Marissa Shorenstein, Paterson's press secretary, resigned. "Due to the circumstances that have led to my unwitting involvement in recent news stories, I can no longer do my job effectively," she wrote in her resignation statement. Translation: I didn't know what Paterson might really have been trying to do when he told me to get in touch with Sherr-una Booker. [AP/YNN] [Fox23] [NYT] [Daily Politics] [NYT March 1]

Raucci Trial Day 12 Deborah Gray testified that her family's house and cars were vandalized on multiple occasions after Steven Raucci accused her of writing an anonymous letter to unions officials complaining about his leadership. Gray also testified that a former friend told her that Raucci was going to "take care of things" after the former friend told Raucci about her friends with a former partner (an unexploded device was later found at the former partner's house). A former co-worker of Raucci also testified that his vehicles were vandalized after he filed a sexual harassment claim after Raucci played the "man game" with him. [TU] [Daily Gazette $] [WTEN] [YNN]

Ron Canestrari says talk of a cancelled racing season at Saratoga is a pressure ploy by NYRA. Roy McDonald and Tony Jordan have written a letter to David Paterson urging to review the already-existing bids for the Aqueduct racino (money from that deal was going to prop up racing in the state). [WTEN] [Saratogian]

The Schenectady man accused of killing two dogs and torturing another has pleaded guilty. The plea deal includes two years in prison. [YNN] [Daily Gazette $]

(there's more)

State delaying refund checks, Save the Y rally, father of American Idol judge to challenge Kirsten Gillibrand, Hasbrouck makes NBA

save the y rally

From yesterday's Save the Y rally -- here's a photoset from Sebastien B.

David Paterson says the state is delaying the distribution tax refund checks in order to keep the state afloat. Paterson and legislative leaders are finally meeting to negotiate the budget. [TU] [TU]

Paterson said yesterday that "we wouldn't project that the Saratoga racing season is in jeopardy at this point." Members of the racing industry have said recently the Saratoga season could be in doubt because of problems with New York City OTB and the stalled-again Aqueduct racino. [YNN]

Paterson signed The Family Health Care Decisions Act yesterday, which allows family members and close friends to make decisions on behalf of a patient who lacks capacity. The law has broad support, but was hung up in the legislature for 17 years. [YNN] [TU]

More than 100 people showed up yesterday for the Save the Y rally outside the Washington Ave location in Albany (photo above -- more photos here). Protesters criticized the Capital District YMCA and city officials for their handling of the location's now-imminent closure. A spokesman for the Y says it "just wasn't possible" to keep the location open. [Fox23] [Sebastien B] [TU] [YNN]

Day 11 of the Steven Raucci trial focused on testimony by former Schenectady school district athletic director Gary DiNola, who testified that an un-exploded device left on his car and vandalism of his house had "terrorized" his family. The testimony featured a heated exchange between DiNola and Raucci's lawyers, who objected to his characterization of the situation. Emails introduced as evidence indicated Raucci at one point wrote to DiNola: "I'm not a tolerant person to begin with. I'm even less tolerant of people who show me disrespect." In an email from DiNola to district superintendent Eric Ely, DiNola said that he had "learned to park my beat-up Volvo in front of the security cameras near the loading dock." [Daily Gazette $] [TU] [Fox23] [CBS6]

(there's more)

Where to have a small wedding?

rose garden schenectady

The rose garden in Schenectady's Central Park.

A crowd member approached us -- in real life! -- recently with a question about places to hold a small wedding ceremony in the Capital Region. She's looking for a pretty place to gather about eight or ten people for a small, quiet ceremony.

A few places that came to mind are after the jump. We're hoping you'll have some suggestions, too.

(there's more)

Washington Ave Y closing, track season at Saratoga threatened, little hope for on-time budget, police say teen party caused $200k in damage

The Washington Ave YMCA will close March 31, according to a letter dated March 11 from Capital District YMCA president David Brown. The letter cites the $400,000 annual loss from the Washington Ave location and calls the decision to close the branch "very painful and difficult." The Y has said the location has been losing money for the last two decades. [Save the Y Facebook] [TU] *

A state police report on the fatal police car crash on Madison Ave in Albany last summer concludes that both drivers were at fault, according to the APD. The primary fault was laid with the civilian driver, who the report concludes failed to yield to the oncoming police car. The driver has said she didn't hear the car's siren (the report concluded the car's siren was on). The report says "secondary contributing factor" to the crash was the "failure to drive with reasonable care for all persons using the highway" on the part of APD officer Christopher Orth. [Troy Record] [WTEN] [TU] [Fox23]

Leaders of New York Thoroughbred Breeders Inc say "there will be no Saratoga race meet this summer" if that state doesn't find a way to get $15 million to NYRA -- either by fixing the bankrupt NYC OTB or finding a new winning bidder for the Aqueduct racino contract. Saratoga business owners are anxiously watching the situation. [NYTB] [TU] [WTEN]

Potential bidders for the Aqueduct racino apparently believe that the contract is step towards the legalization of casino gambling in New York State. [NYT]

Troy police say they're investigating the shooting of a 14-year-old Saturday night. They say the gunfire was picked up by the ShotSpotter system. [WTEN] [Fox23]

State police say a man pulled over for driving the wrong way on 787 Saturday afternoon had a blood alcohol level almost three times the legal limit. [WNYT] [YNN] CapNews9 is now YNN

(there's more)

Cuomo hands off Paterson investigation, movie theater planned for Troy, Porco conviction upheld, bizarre chase ends in tasering

Andrew Cuomo has handed off the investigation of the Paterson administration to former chief judge Judith Kaye. Cuomo said a "preliminary review" of the situation concluded "there are credible issues to be resolved." He said he was turning the investigation over to Kaye because of an "abundance of caution, or a zeal to ensure that the public has total confidence in the investigation." (The sharp drop in Cuomo's approval rating in a recent poll might also have had something to do with that.) Kaye has never worked as a prosecutor. She won't be paid to head up the investigation. [NYT] [TU] [Daily Politics] [NY Mag] [NYT] [Daily Politics]

The Paterson administration announced that the tentative agreement with AEG to run a racino at Aqueduct is now off the table. The deal would have paid the state $300 million and revenue from the racino would have helped fund NYRA -- including improvements at Saratoga. That has some now saying that this year's season at The Track could be in jeopardy. [NYT] [TU] [Saratogian] [Saratogian]

Testimony in the Steven Raucci trial yesterday focused an explosive device that attached to the door of a Rotterdam home in 2001. Prosecutors allege that Raucci planted the device in attempt to retaliate over a union matter -- but they say he put it on the wrong house. [Daily Gazette $] [TU]

The Saratoga County sheriff's deputy accused of forcing four women to perform sex acts on him while he was on duty took a plea bargain yesterday. The deal includes six months in jail and a resignation from the sheriff's department. He won't have to register as a sex offender. [Daily Gazette $] [CBS6] [WNYT] [Saratogian]

A $160 million development proposed for the Congress-Ferry corridor in Troy includes a movie theater. The city's planning board also gave the official OK to the new Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, which is now expected to open in August. [TU Places and Spaces] [Troy Record] [Fox23] [CapNews9]

(there's more)

Artichoke, goat cheese and potato spring rolls at Cella Bistro

cella bistro spring rolls

Crispy, potatoey, goat cheesey goodness at Cella Bistro.

We're big fans of variety at AOA, which is one of the reasons we like tapas so much. The idea of lots of little plates, filled with lots of different flavors, kind of makes dinner more of a party.

The need to put a little more party in our dinner sent us to Cella Bistro in Schenectady.

We had fun sampling a whole bunch of good stuff from their tapas menu, but the things we keep thinking about, the comfort food that has joined the list of yummy things we want someone to make us on cold winter nights, are the goat cheese and potato spring rolls.

(there's more)

Paterson say continues to say he's staying, state stepping up tax audits, another Republican into NY 20 pool, pay by mobile in Saratoga, Dickens letters found

David Paterson told a Brooklyn congregation on Sunday that he will "keep governing till the end of the year." He also said that finishing the term would "fulfill the mission in which God placed me." [NYDN] [NYT]

It's not clear which agency will end up investigating the allegations that Paterson perjured himself during questioning about the Yankees tickets. [TU]

If Paterson were to leave office, lieutenant governor Richard Ravitch appears to be widely respected at the Capitol for his competence, experience -- and bluntness. Of course, that would mean another lt gov appointment, which could be tricky. [TU] [TU]

During opening statements in the Steven Raucci trial, prosecutor Robert Carney alleged that Raucci planned his alleged attacks for night so as to maximize their impact. Carney also alleged the Raucci's actions stole his alleged victim's "peace of mind, their comfort, their security." It also came out on Friday that a key undercover witness for the prosecution is a former cop whom Raucci's attorney called a "crook.". [TU] [Daily Gazette $] [Daily Gazette $]

Fred Lebrun says he thinks the state legislature will find a way to keep the state parks open. [TU]

The state has stepped up the number of audits in an effort to find more tax cheaters. [Daily Gazette $]

The state Board of Regents is reportedly considering cutting some Regents exams in order to save money. [TU]

One man died and a car hit a house as part of a two-car crash in Colonie Saturday. The driver who survived has been charged with Driving With Ability Impaired (drugs). Residents who live near the crash site say the residential intersection is notoriously dangerous because drivers often go through the stop sign there. (map). [CapNews9] [Troy Record] [CBS6] [TU] [Fox23]

(there's more)

Made in Schenectady: personal care for your derriere

mb3 multipleEarlier this week saw mention of a product called MB3 on Twitter -- and it seemed to have a local connection. Hmm... what's MB3? So we checked out the web site. From the product page:

MB3 is a soothing external perianal cleansing lotion designed to achieve that "bidet fresh" feeling on the go. When applied to toilet paper for the final wipe, MB3 will leave you clean, comfortable, and confident.

OK, so we have to admit we thought at first this might be a joke. But it seemed to check out. So who was, uh, you know, behind this product?

The answer: Steve Markham . He's a remodeling contractor (by day) in Schenectady -- and now a personal care product developer (by night).

We emailed Steve a few questions and he bounced back answers about the origin of the idea, getting his start at a business incubator in Schenectady, and his home-brew setup for MB3.

(there's more)

Paterson now snagged in Yankees ticket flap, new Troy city hall won't be cheap, Proctors expanding, cookies for Oscar

The state Commission on Public Integrity announced yesterday that it's asked prosecutors to look into whether David Paterson should be charged for giving false testimony during an ethics inquiry about Yankees World Series Tickets. The commission says it found:

"... there is reasonable cause to believe that Governor Paterson solicited, received and accepted an unlawful gift; and falsely testified under oath that he had always intended to pay for the tickets for his son and his son's friend when, in fact, the Governor's intention was to receive and accept the tickets without paying for them until a press inquiry caused him to submit a backdated check as payment for the tickets."

When asked yesterday whether he lied during the ethics investigation, Paterson said: "No." Paterson's story about how he ended up with the tickets has changed multiple times. In response to one of the Paterson administration's versions, the president of the Yankees told the NY Post the governor was "a liar." The Paterson aide who reportedly approached the Yankees: David Johnson. [NYS COPI] [TU] [NYT] [NY Post] [NYDN]

Republican gubernatorial candidate Rick Lazio was in Scotia yesterday and told a gathering of Republicans that "the people of New York deserve better than what they've been getting." He also criticized Andrew Cuomo for "ducking and bobbing and weaving - avoiding taking positions." [CapNews9] [Daily Gazette $] [Fox23]

"Several hundred" people showed up for yesterday's state parks rally outside the Capitol. Jack McEneny said he's been getting more mail about the parks closures than all proposed budget cuts combined. [TU] [Troy Record]

The 12 jurors for the Steven Raucci case have been selected. Potential jurors were screened for their thoughts on firecrackers and the use of informants. As part of jury selection, potential witness lists surfaced -- and many current and former top officials for the Schenectady school district are on the lists. [TU] [Daily Gazette $] [WNYT] [Daily Gazette $]

Consultants for the City of Troy report that building a new city hall could cost somewhere between $21 million and $25.5 million. Here's a live blog transcript from last night's meeting. [TU] [City of Troy]

(there's more)

Conflicting reports about what Paterson said, Sararoga paid parking off the table, another potential Gillibrand challenger drops out

The friend David Paterson allegedly enlisted to talk with the woman who sought an order of protection against a top aide reportedly has told investigators that Paterson asked to pass along this message to the woman: "Tell her the governor wants her to make this go away." A Paterson spokesman said last night that it was not the message the governor sent -- and when he did talk with the woman, it was about getting the media off her back. [NYT] [TU]

Harry Corbitt, the New York State Police superintendent, announced last night on Capitol Tonight that he's retiring -- he said the "media fire storm has really disrupted my ability to function in that capacity." Denise O'Donnell, the state official who oversaw the state police, resigned last week after saying she couldn't "in good conscience" remain a part of the Paterson administration. The head of the State Troopers Police Benevolent Society released a statement yesterday trying to distance rank-and-file troopers from "the reported actions of a few people in higher positions." [CapNews9] [TU CapCon] [CapNews9]

David Paterson has called a cabinet meeting this morning at the Capitol. [Daily Politics]

Saratoga Springs' finance commissioner says downtown paid parking is now "off the table at this point." The city's budget had included $1.35 million in revenue from parking. [Post-Star] [Saratogian]

(there's more)

Weird and difficult budget process could be ahead, jury selection in Raucci trial, RPI knocking down presidents house, man robs supermarket with a note

Pundits say David Paterson's now-lame duck status could be the beginning of a very weird and difficult state budget process. That has some people -- notably Sheldon Silver -- calling for lieutenant governor Richard Ravitch to handle the budget negotiations. Meanwhile, the head of the state Democratic Party called Andrew Cuomo "all but the presumptive nominee" for governor. [AP/Post-Star] [NYDN] [TU]

John Sweeney pleaded guilty to misdemeanor DWI Friday afternoon. As part of the deal, he's up for 30 days in jail -- and he'll have to wear an alcohol monitor on his ankle after he's released. He'll also have to do 300 hours of community service. [Daily Gazette $] [Saratogian] [TU] [WNYT]

Jury selection is scheduled to start today in the trial of Steven Raucci. The pool of potential jurors for Schenectady County Court has been doubled to 675 this week. Raucci faces 26 criminal charges, including arson and terrorism. [TU] [Daily Gazette $] [Daily Gazette $] [CBS6]

Schenectady police officer Kyle Hunter pleaded guilty to misdemeanor criminal contempt -- and part of the plea deal, he's resigning from the police force. [Daily Gazette $] [TU]

(there's more)

Snow emergencies taking effect, brake on paid parking in Saratoga, medical marijuana comes up in legislature, rabid raccoons in Rensselaer County

snowy road

Around 4:30 pm on Tuesday.

We got more than six inches of snow yesterday, according to the National Weather Service (obviously, there's been more since midnight). More snow is forecasted for today. Many cities and towns have declared snow emergencies (including Albany and Saratoga Springs). National Grid was reporting on its web site this morning that about 15,000 customers were without power in the Capital Region. [NWS] [CapNews9] [National Grid]

Rochester's police chief, who was a finalist to head up the Albany police department, has pulled his name from consideration -- somewhat to the annoyance of the search committee. [TU] [CapNews9]

A SUNY committee has voted to recommend closing the New Covenant charter school in Albany. The final vote on the matter is next month. [TU] [Fox23]

The advisory panel for paid parking in downtown Saratoga Springs voted to reject all four of the plans submitted by contractors. One panel member called all the plans "totally flawed." The proposed 2010 budget for the city includes $1.35 million in revenue from parking. [Daily Gazette $] [Saratogian] [Post-Star]

Troy's city council voted 4-4 on the sale of the Uncle Sam parking garage -- which pretty much kills the deal. The developer who wanted to buy the garage now says he might pull out of the city. [TU] [Troy Record]

(there's more)

Weekend of shootings, Victoria Pool on secondary closure list, college student killed on Thruway

Schenectady police say a man was shot five times and killed on Maple Ave in the Vale neighborhood early Saturday morning (map). It's Schenectady's first homicide of the year. The SPD says two officers were injured by a ricocheting bullet as the SWAT team executed a search warrant on the same street Sunday night -- one of the officers was reportedly saved by his bulletproof vest. Police aren't saying whether the warrant is connected to the earlier shooting. The SPD says eight people were detained. [Fox23] [CapNews9] [Daily Gazette $] [CBS6] [CapNews9] [TU]

Albany police say a man was shot four times while walking between apartment buildings near Tivoli Park in Albany Friday night (map). And a teen was shot in the leg Thursday night in south Albany (map). There were a total of five shootings last week in Albany. [WNYT] [TU] [WTEN]

The Victoria Pool, Grafton Lakes and Peebles Island are on a secondary list of state parks and facilities slated for closure, depending on whether the legislature allows the state parks office to use capital funds for operational costs. The planned closure of Thacher Park -- which was officially announced on Friday -- is expected to save $255,000. If the budget plan is approved (a big "if"), parks on the first list would start to close April 1. [Daily Gazette $] [TU] [AOA] [TU] [Troy Record]

David Paterson officially announced his gubernatorial candidacy Saturday on Long Island. In his speech, he tried to position himself as the anti-establishment candidate and said, "I've done more in my two years as governor that most governors have done in two terms." Perhaps a bad sign for the governor: getting more than 100 people to show up at a campaign stop is described as "beating expectations." [NYT] [Daily Politics] [NYO] [NYDN]

(there's more)

Second teen pleads guilty in Bailey case, Paterson says he gets advice from Spitzer, Murphy talks about Afghanistan trip, appeals court ruling in mall peace tshirt case

Ricardo Caldwell, one of the three teens accused of being involved in the shooting death of UAlbany student Richard Bailey, took a plea deal yesterday that requires him to testify against the alleged shooter, De Von Callicut. The third teen that was charged -- King Modest -- took a similar plea deal in January. [TU] [Troy Record]

Albany police say investigators have not yet met with the two officers involved in the fatal shooting this week on Quail Street. [TU]

A group of citizens -- including UAlbany students -- testified at last night's Albany common council meeting that they don't think the police chief search has been open enough to public input. [WTEN] [WNYT]

A spokesman for David Paterson called the New York Times' latest profile of the governor (perhaps the article that had been the subject of so many rumors) a "gossip-laden, subjective, and poorly-sourced narrative." [NYT] [press release]

David Paterson says he talks to Eliot Spitzer "from time to time and get[s] advice from him." [NY Post]

Two people have filed a lawsuit against the Schenectady school district alleging that top district did nothing after being warned about Steven Raucci. [Daily Gazette $]

(there's more)

The new old Daily Gazette

gazette google grab

There should be more stories about giant blimps.

This is cool: Google is digitizing the Daily Gazette's microfilm -- and it's indexing the archives using optical character recognition (that's software that can "read" the text in images).

Google has already indexed 7.6 million Gazette articles, according to the newspaper's site. The current index stretches back to the 1920s, but paper the archive will eventually include articles from 1897 forward.

The archive is fun to do through. You can search for a topic, read the article (and link to it), zoom out to see page on which the article originally appeared, shuffle through adjacent pages and click on headlines to zoom back in. For example, here's an article from 1922 about Thomas Edison's return to Schenectady. As far as we can tell, you don't have to be a subscriber to use the archive.

Google has working with newspapers to digitize archives since 2008 (and few major papers before that). It shares ad revenue from the archives with the papers.

screen grab: Daily Gazette

The Puppet People of Schenectady

puppet people composite

Michelle, Mark and a few of their friends.

By Jessica Pasko,

Schenectady's Michelle Smith-Carrigan and Mark Carrigan advertise themselves as "your puppet professionals."

Seriously, how much fun must they have at parties?

"So what do you do for a living?"

"Well, actually, I'm a puppet professional..."

(there's more)

Multiple shootings over the weekend, stats indicate drop in Troy crime, Tedisco calls for tougher animal laws, big research grant for Siena

Schenectady police say a woman was shot in the face Sunday morning in her apartment in Mont Pleasant (map). Police say witnesses reported that a man had been ringing the woman's door bell repeatedly and then kicked in her door. The SPD says it's looking for the suspect. [Fox23] [TU] [Daily Gazette $]

Albany police say a woman was shot yesterday evening on Broad Street. [Fox23]

Albany police say a teen was shot in the face early Monday morning in West Hill (map). The APD is looking for the suspect, whom the teen said he didn't know. [TU] [Fox23]

Colonie police are investigating the death of a man found outside a muffler shop on Central Ave Saturday (map). The man's body was reportedly leaning against a building. Police say no cause of death was found during the initial autopsy -- foul play is not suspected. [CapNews9] [CBS6] [Troy Record] [Fox23]

The City of Troy reported that federal stats indicate the city's overall crime rate was down 2.5 percent last year compared to the year before -- and violent crime was down 11 percent. [City of Troy Facebook]

An arbitrator has ruled that an Albany cop accused of pointing a gun at a clerk should serve a 30 day suspension. [TU]

(there's more)

Monserrate expelled, Paterson says he'll only leave office "in a box," the center of the nanotechnology universe, horse breeders say they're leaving

It's snowing. React accordingly.

The New York Senate voted to expel Queens senator Hiram Monserrate last night. The expulsion followed Monserrate's conviction on misdemeanor charge for dragging his bleeding girlfriend through the lobby of an apartment building -- though Monserrate alleged in a 16 minutes speech last night that political fallout from his role in last year's Senate coup was actually motivation for the vote. Eight senators voted against expulsion, including Monserrate. David Paterson says there will be a special election for Monserrate's seat on March 16. Monserrate is vowing to challenge the expulsion in court and may run in the special election. [TU] [NY Senate YouTube] [Daily Politics] [CBS6] [NYT]

Said David Paterson yesterday at a press conference: "The only way I'm not going to be governor next year is at the ballot box and the only way that I'll be leaving office before is in a box." Paterson also said he had met with NYT reporters and the much-buzzed-about piece that apparently is in the works is a "profile piece." The Paterson administration also sent a letter to NYT's public editor "to communicate our deep disappointment in the approach taken" to compiling the article. [CapNews9] [TU] [CBS6]

The Paterson administration's revised budget plan is banking on $1 billion in federal stimulus money. It also includes a proposed redistribution of funding between the Egg and NYSTI. [AP/Saratogian] [TU]

The five Albany plastic surgeons, a nurse and an administrator who pleaded guilty to giving unapproved off-brand Botox to patients were sentenced to community service and fines. They were also ordered to pay restitution to the patients who got the knock-off de-wrinkler. The attorney for the medical practice told the judge yesterday that it was on his advice that the practice kept quiet about the product's use when it first came to light. [Daily Gazette $] [CapNews9] [TU]

The public vote on the Troy schools capital project is today. [CBS6]

(there's more)

Paterson attacks rumors, police say listening system reported gunshots first, county sending out prescription discount cards

In an interview with the AP, David Paterson defended himself against the still-unknown accusations that may or may not be included a New York Times article that may or may not be published. The frenzy of anticipation has led outlets to print all sorts of rumors. Rick Lazio called out the NYT yesterday in a letter, writing that if it doesn't have a story, it has "a moral obligation to stop the drama and the psychological warfare" on the governor. Neither NYT officials or reporters are commenting. And now some are saying Paterson might even come out ahead in all this. [AP/Post-Star] [NY Post] [Daily Politics] [Fox23] [NYO]

The bid to override David Paterson's veto of the ethics reform bill failed yesterday in the state Senate. Twenty-five Republicans and one Democratic voted to sustain the veto. Hugh Farley and Roy McDonald both voted to override. [TU] [NYT] [Daily Politics]

Troy police say a man was shot in North Central Friday night -- and they first heard about the shooting via the city's ShotSpotter system. The TPD says the system alerted officials 10 minutes before the first call related to the incident. [TU] [Troy Record] [WTEN]

A 19-year-old from Troy has been arrested for allegedly shooting an 18-year-old last week in north Albany. [TU]

During his State of the City address, Schenectady mayor Brian Stratton said last night that the city is freezing hiring and cutting other expenditures in an attempt to cover an upcoming $12.8 million budget gap. The city council also voted yesterday to move toward freeing itself from being responsible for taxes not paid to the school district. [WTEN] [Daily Gazette $] [CBS6] [Daily Gazette $]

The construction company that's building the GlobalFoundries chip fab at Luther Forest is moving its headquarters to the Watervliet Arsenal. Also: ATIC, the investment company funded by the government of Abu Dhabi, now owns 66 percent of GloFo. [TU] [Post-Star]

Two Ballston Spa teens were charged with felonies over the weekend for sending explicit text message pics. [WNYT]

(there's more)

Rumors swirl about Paterson, Bruno bacon not delivered, clerk and robber crash through window, a Schenectady gift basket for Stephen Colbert

The big news at the state Capitol is... a NYT story about David Paterson... that hasn't been published yet... and no one seems to know when it will be. The story is rumored to include some sort of bombshell -- though that, too, is currently a mystery (Gawker commenters had some ideas). The governor reportedly met with Democratic party leaders over the weekend to discuss whether or not he will follow through on his vow to run for election this fall. And there are rumors about serious discontent within his administration. A spokesman for Paterson called all the recent rumors "a new low even by the standards of planet Albany." [TU] [Gawker] [AP/Post-Star] [NY Post] [CBS6]

Harold Ford accused Kirsten Gillibrand of using "underhanded tactics" in her attempt to gather early endorsements from county Democratic Party leaders around the state. Gillibrand is calling for Ford to disclose whether he got a bonus from Bank of America. [NYT] [NYO]

Much of the $75 million in state money promised by Joe Bruno just before he left office hasn't made it through. [TU]

The chairwoman of an inspector general's panel charged with tracking stimulus money says much of the federal funding distributed to New York State has yet to be spent. [TU]

The man accused of stabbing three people near the intersection of State and Henry Johnson following LarkFest last year was convicted on Friday on three counts of assault. He could get 25-50 years in prison. The victims said the man ran at them, shirtless, and yelled "I live for this, this is what I do!" during the attack. The man had been up for trial in 2008 for another alleged stabbing in Troy in 2007, but a judge tossed the case for procedural reasons. [CapNews9] [Troy Record] [CBS6] [Troy Record] [TU]

A Schenectady man died from carbon monoxide poisoning in his apartment after turning on his stove to keep warm because the apartment's thermostat was malfunctioning, keeping the heat down. [Daily Gazette $]

(there's more)

Paterson says budget gap growing, Gillibrand asks Obama question, rabid kitten found, another escaped dog

David Paterson says the state is now facing an $8.2 billion budget gap -- that's up about $750 million from the previous estimate. The state's budget director says the widening gap is the result of smaller than expected tax revenue from Wall Street bonuses. In the increased estimate had member of the legislature criticizing the governor for not providing an "accurate picture" in his proposed budget. [TU] [AP/Post-Star] [NYT] [Daily Politics]

Kirsten Gillibrand got to ask a question at yesterday's Q&A with Barack Obama. That might not be a good sign for her. [NYDN] [PolitickerNY]

The Greenfield man accused of stabbing and killing a tenant last year during a fight pleaded guilty to manslaughter yesterday. The case ended up being a bizarre tangle of allegations. [Saratogian] [TU]

(there's more)

No jail time for pedestrian death, RPI mansion zoning app bounced, Ford and Gillibrand race for donors, Schenectady beckons to Stephen Colbert

The woman who pleaded guilty to hitting and killing a pedestrian -- and then temporarily driving away -- on Madison Ave in Albany a year ago was sentenced to probation, restitution and community service. The victim's family said justice was not served by the sentencing. The judge presiding over the case said the misdemeanor plea deal "on its face, does not look right." Prosecutors say the evidence didn't support a felony charge. [Troy Record] [WTEN] [TU] [Fox23]

Congress Street in Troy between 15th Street and Brunswick Ave will be closed today from 10 am - 4:30 pm for what the city says is the emergency demolition of a building (map). The city's engineer says the front wall of the former Industrial Tool and Die building "could rupture at any time." The building had already been slated for demo. (CBS6 says it will be streaming video of the demolition.) [@TroyMayor] [TU] [Troy Record] [CBS6]

Troy's Zoning Board of Appeals has bounced RPI's application for a height variance for the new president's mansion. [Troy Record]

David Paterson the vetoed the legislature's ethics reform package. The governor said the bill didn't go far enough. Legislative leaders are now talking about trying to override the veto. [TU] [NYDN] [NYT]

(there's more)

Snowfall total way behind, Republicans lining up behind Lazio, shooting in north Albany, Brunomobile still parked

This winter's snowfall so far is about a foot less than typical totals. By the way: Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow today. [TU] [CNN]

Brian Stratton says Schenectady is facing a budget gap of almost $13 million in 2011. One possible way to help cover the gap: start charging non-profits such as Union College and Ellis Hospital for police and fire services. [TU] [Daily Gazette $]

It's looking like the state Republican Party is lining up behind Rick Lazio as its choice for governor. Lazio was in Colonie yesterday and called out Andrew Cuomo, saying that Cuomo has "locked himself in his office and watched as Albany burned." A spokesman for Cuomo said yesterday that the AG is currently "focused on his public service." [CapNews9] [TU] [NYT] [Fox23]

Skidmore's president announced yesterday that the college will not have to go through with planned layoffs. He said the college's financial is improved because of an upswing in the endowment, as well as the results of attrition and a hiring freeze. [Daily Gazette $] [TU] [Post-Star]

(there's more)

Holiday work for SPD union head, bar busted for being jammed with underage drinkers, dog granted order of protection, telethon raises $1.9 million

The head of the Schenectady police union worked for the department on just three days last year -- all of them holidays at 2.5 pay. [Daily Gazette $] [TU]

A state Supreme Court judge has denied the FOIL request submitted by the Daily Gazette and TU for the Schenectady school districts internal report on Steven Raucci. The judge ruled the report was not subject to FOIL and its release could be an invasion of witnesses' privacy. [Daily Gazette $] [TU]

Schenectady County legislature chairwoman Sue Savage is proposing legislation that would require calorie counts on the menus of chain restaurants. Five NY counties -- including Albany County -- and New York City already have such a law. The law would only apply to restaurants with 15 or more locations in the county. [WNYT] [TU] [CapNews9]

The Paterson Administration has finally picked an operator for the Aqueduct racino -- the revenues from which should help fund a bunch of improvements at Saratoga's track. That is, if the money actually comes in. [Paterson] [Saratogian] [NYT]

David Paterson has just $620k on hand right now to spend in a Democratic gubernatorial primary -- Andrew Cuomo has $12 million. But Paterson says he'll raise a lot more. [NYDN] [NY Post]

The smoke-filled room -- which was in Albany this past weekend -- appears to be leaning heavily toward Andrew Cuomo. [WNYT] [TU]

An assemblywoman from Long Island topped the legislature's travel reimbursement list for last year at more than $41,000. [TU]

Saratoga Springs' police chief says budget cuts will make it hard to assign officers to efforts that led to many arrests last year. [Post-Star]

The State Liquor Authority has suspended the liquor license of The Garage, a bar at the corner of Western and Quail in Albany, after a raid last week allegedly found 500 people -- "most appearing to be underage" -- jammed into a space certified for 250. The SLA says the bar had so many it customers it drafted some to be "guest bartenders." The bar's owner wasn't commenting publicly on the raid. The bar is located in the middle of the "student ghetto" -- and the previous operations there have also been tagged for serving minors . [NYSLA] [TU] [Dowd on Drinks]

(there's more)

Details about Harriman redevelopment, Clinton endorses Gillibrand, college endowments take hit, burglaries in Manning Blvd neighborhood

The two state officials in charge of redeveloping the Harriman State Office Campus in Albany say the redevelopment plan will be incremental. The Harriman Campus board also now says it will release Columbia Development's proposed plan for the site. [TU] [HRTDC]

The US Census will be hiring 1,500 people in the Capital Region. The temporary jobs will be part time and pay about $15/hour. [CapNews9] [Fox23] [Troy Record]

While New York did score some of that federal rail funding -- other states got a lot more. [TU]

Laws banning driving-while-cellphoning don't appear to be reducing the number of accidents. The number of tickets issued in New York State for violating the ban has been increasing steadily. [NYT] [TU]

Bill Clinton has endorsed Kirsten Gillibrand. [NYDN]

Catholic Charities is starting the Capital Region's first needle exchange program in Albany. [TU]

(there's more)

Cold snap, New York rail funds request stops short, low number of home foreclosures, surgical robot unveiled

Today's weather forecast includes a steep temperature drop, the possibility of strong wind gusts and some snow. [NWS]

Chuck Schumer says New York State is in line to get $151 million from the $6 billion the feds have pledged for high speed rail. Part of that money will go toward constructing a second track at the bottleneck between Rensselaer and Schenectady. It will also pay for signal upgrades and engineering studies. New York State had been hoping to get billions, not of this money. [Post-Star] [Daily Gazette $] [CBS6] [TU]

The state Department of Taxation and Finance is looking to step up its tax collection enforcement efforts. [TU]

Friends and family of Joe Bruno have been writing letters urging the judge presiding over his case to go easy on his sentencing. [TU]

Schenectady's sewer maintenance supervisor was the city's highest-paid employee in 2009 -- mostly because of overtime. [TU]

(there's more)

Schenectady man accused of torturing dogs, soda tax falling flat, proposal for prayer before common council meetings, family raises $1 million for research

A Schenectady man has been charged with felony animal cruelty after police say he killed two dogs and burned another. Thomas Hendricks is also accused of assaulting his wife -- and police say the alleged violence against the dogs was the an attempt to hurt his wife. Hendricks has denied the allegations. [WTEN] [TU] [Fox23] [CapNews9]

During his state of the city speech last night Saratoga Springs mayor Scott Johnson criticized the "dysfunctional" state legislature for stripping the city of $4 million in VLT money. He said the city would fight new plans to keep the racino open 24/7. Johnson also said that paid parking downtown would start in May. And floated the idea of sharing services with surrounding municipalities. [CapNews9] [Daily Gazette $] [TU] [Saratogian]

There was some flooding in Schenectady's Stockade neighborhood yesterday as ice jams broke the Mohawk. People in the neighborhood seemed unimpressed. [WTEN] [WNYT] [TU]

The woman who died after apparently jumping from the Berkshire Spur overpass on the Hudson this week was an Albany High School teacher. The interim Albany schools superintendent says the woman was "an excellent teacher." She had been teaching math in the district since 1984. [Troy Record] [TU] [WNYT]

(there's more)

Ford takes shot at Gillibrand and Schumer, TU Center turns profit, second ESP man caver sentenced, Phillip Livingston school up for sale

Harold Ford was in Albany yesterday to make the rounds at the Capitol and ESP -- and take shots at both Kirsten Gillibrand and Chuck Schumer. Ford said on Talk 1300 that both senators were elected to be independent and not act like a "parakeet" for for the Democratic Party. A Gillibrand spokesman shot back: "The notion that [Ford] is independent is completely contrived." Said one legislative intern to the TU after meeting Ford on the ESP concourse: "He should really look into getting a New York accent." [AP/Troy Record] [NYO] [NYDN] [NYT] [TU]

David Paterson said yesterday that his potential gubernatorial campaign opponents shouldn't be hiding in the "candidate protection program." [NYDN]

Annoyed that the governor keeps calling them back for special sessions, the legislature has decided to just not adjourn -- basically blocking more special sessions. [Daily Politics]

Albany County announced that the Times Union Center, which it owns, turned a profit of almost $1.8 million last year -- up from about $900k the year before. That's the second-highest profit in the facility's 20-year history (not adjusted for inflation). [Albany County] [TU]

(there's more)

Suspended Schenectady cop arrested again, Cuomo to declare in March?, man arrested for 65th time, local pilot flies supply missions to Haiti

Suspended Schenectady police officer John Lewis has been arrested. Again. It's his sixth arrest in the last two years. In this most recent case, he's accused of causing a car accident in the Ellis Hospital parking lot after he allegedly left the emergency department drunk. The SPD first tried to fire Lewis in 1998 for allegedly using a racial slur. The department's waiting for a decision on its most recent attempt to terminate him. [WNYT] [Daily Gazette $] [TU] [Fox23] [CBS6]

A "source close to [Andrew] Cuomo" tells the Daily News that Andrew Cuomo will officially announce he's running for governor in March. David Paterson's campaign manager says "it's clear Mr. Cuomo is running for governor." [NYDN] [NYDN]

David Paterson is apparently going to try again to get the state worker unions to give up their raises this year. [TU]

Colonie assemblyman -- and outspoken MMA critic -- Bob Reilly says he's willing to support a compromise bill that would legalize ultimate fighting in the state if certain restrictions were placed on the sport. [TU]

UAlbany cancelled a cage fighting match scheduled for the SEFCU Arena this past weekend after a state commission said the event appeared to violate state law. [@albstudentpress] [Daily Gazette $]

(there's more)

Police say home invasions linked to drugs and gambling, Cuomo could wait until April, a familiar robbery attempt

The Albany Police Department said yesterday that the shooting of two men in a Pine Hills apartment last week appears to be connected to sales of pot. The APD said there have been 23 reported "home invasions" in the city over the last year and "illegal activity such as drug sales or gambling." [APD]

An Albany common councilman is proposing a law that would require new city employees to live in the city. The rule wouldn't apply to police and firefighters. [TU] [CBS6]

The Schenectady County DA is backing efforts to keep emails related to the Steven Raucci case from being made public. [Daily Gazette $]

Both houses of the state legislature passed a package of ethics reforms -- and shortly thereafter, David Paterson vowed to veto the bill. The governor says the package doesn't go far enough. [NYT] [Daily Politics] [TU]

(there's more)

Chilly reaction to Paterson budget, shooting near school in Troy, mop protests at Bruno fundraiser, prof accused of growing pot

David Paterson's proposed budget doesn't seem to have gone over well with state legislators, some of whom are already vowing to make significant changes the proposed cuts in education and health care spending. Local elected officials also seemed cool to the budget plan. School district officials also weren't happy. Andrew Cuomo: good start, let's see it actually happen. And the conservative-leaning Empire Center said Paterson's budget didn't cut enough. One person who did seem enthusiastic: SUNY chancellor Nancy Zimpher (the Paterson plan would give SUNY more control over its tuition rates). [NYT] [TU] [Troy Record] [Saratogian] [Daily Politics] [Post-Star] [CapNews9]

The state legislature didn't vote yesterday on a plan to lift the cap on the number of charter schools in the state. The legislature had been bouncing the plan around because of a deadline yesterday afternoon to file for federal education money. [TU] [NYT]

Troy police say a man was shot in the back yesterday afternoon in North Central, just a block from a school. (map). A witness said he saw two men run from the scene and drive off. [TU] [CapNews9] [Troy Record]

The woman who was driving over the Dunn Memorial Bridge in 2005 when a section dropped two feet has settled with the state Department of Transportation for more than $100k, according to her attorney. The lawyer says her client has suffered from PTSD because of the experience. [TU] [Fox23]

(there's more)

Paterson to propose budget today, questions about APD chief salary, protest planned for Bruno fundraiser, the "conscious" candy machine

David Paterson is scheduled to release his 2010-2011 budget proposal today.

Last night's special session of the legislature didn't include action on the proposal to increase the state's cap on the number of charter schools (though senators did find time to squabble over parliamentary procedure). The state has until 4:30 today to file its application for $700 million in federal funding -- and removal of the charter school cap is seen as a key part of that application. [AP/Post-Star] [TU] [Fox23] [TU]

Jerry Jennings is hoping to a close a gap in the next Albany budget by getting the state to advance almost $40 million in PILOT money for the ESP. [TU]

As Albany searches for a new police chief, the question has come up: does the job pay enough? [TU]

(there's more)

Teen accused in Bailey shooting pleads guilty, Walmart heirs backing local charter schools, rash of car break-ins in Colonie

King Modest, one of the teens accused of being involved with the killing of UAlbany student Richard Bailey in 2008, has agreed to a plea deal that involves him testifying against the other two accused teens. If convicted on the original charges, Modest faced 25 years to life -- he's now expected to get 10 years in prison. Statements the three teens allegedly made to Albany police indicated that Modest was a lookout during the robbery-turned-shooting. The attorney for the teen accused of pulling the trigger tried yesterday to cast doubt on Modest's version of events. [CapNews9] [Troy Record] [TU] [Fox23]

Albany police say the shooting of two men in an apartment near the St. Rose campus this week appears to have been a targeted robbery attempt. The APD says it's searching for five suspects allegedly involved in the crime. [APD] [TU]

The state Senate committee investigating Hiram Monserrate has recommended "expulsion or in the alternative, censure with revocation of privileges" for the Queens senator. Monserrate was convicted of misdemeanor assault against his girlfriend last fall. A state Senate vote on whether to expel him is expected to come in the next few weeks. Neil Breslin and Roy McDonald are both expected to vote for expulsion -- Hugh Farley says he's undecided. A political scientist says Monserrate's expulsion could throw the chamber into "chaos and deadlock." [Daily Politics] [NYT] [CapCon] [TU]

Delmar resident Scott Ritter, the former UN weapons inspector and outspoken Iraq war critic, has been accused of being caught in a online sex sting. Police in Pennsylvania allege that he exposed himself via webcam to a undercover officer posing as a 15-year-old girl. Ritter faced similar charges in 2001 from a sting here in the Capital Region -- those charges were dropped. Ritter did not comment to reporters who knocked on his door yesterday. [AP/Saratogian] [CapNews9] [TU] [WNYT]

(there's more)

Two men shot in Pine Hills, legislators propose new ethics oversight, alleged horse slasher pleads guilty, struck Saratoga pedestrians ticketed

Albany police say two men were shot on Ontario Street near St. Rose yesterday evening (map). They say how the shooting went down was unclear. The two men's injuries were not considered life threatening. St. Rose security said the campus was locked down temporarily while police searched for suspects. [CBS6] [TU] [CapNews9] [ASP]

The Troy police overtime was almost double the amount budgeted for last year. The city's highest paid employee last year was a police sergeant who made $140,738.10 -- almost half of that overtime. [Troy Record] [TU]

State legislative leaders introduced a package of ethics reforms that would create new watchdogs for the legislature, the executive branch and lobbyists. David Paterson said the plan isn't enough because it doesn't require legislators to disclose their outside business clients. A "top aide" said the governor won't sign the bill in its current form. [TU] [NYT] [Daily Politics]

Documents filed by Andrew Cuomo's office in state supreme court allege that Pedro Espada may have violated tax, election, labor law -- and committed fraud, too -- as head of a Bronx health care group. Espada called the investigation by the AG a "witch hunt driven by his political ambitions." [NYT] [TU]

(there's more)

Landlord owes Troy more than $600k, man arrested for allegedly stabbing mother and brother, wettest decade on record, renovations begin on Dinosaur building

Companies owned by landlord Sandy Horowitz owe the city of Troy more than $600,000 in back taxes, according to his bankruptcy filing. Horowitz owns the Cannon Building, which was recently shut down temporarily because of code violations. [Troy Record] [Troy Record]

A Greenfield 20-year-old has been charged with stabbing both his brother and mother Friday. Saratoga County DA James Murphy said "every major organ except the heart was punctured or injured" in the brother during the attack. [Post-Star] [Saratogian]

Troy police say a man was shot multiple times Saturday night in South Troy (map). The TPD says it's arrested a Schenectady man. [CapNews9] [Troy Record]

The state will be spending $5 million to replace the bridge that connects Niska Isle -- and its nine households -- to the rest of Niskayuna. (Niska Isle is actually a peninsula.) [TU]

(there's more)

State now has glut of H1N1 vaccine, increase in heating oil prices, Olmert to speak at Union, suspect accused biting man in the neck

Apparently there is now a glut of H1N1 flu vaccine in New York State. [TU]

Prompted by the promise of federal money, David Paterson is now in favor of lifting the state cap on charter schools. [TU]

Schenectady County prosecutors allege that a Schenectady man accused of sexually abusing two girls offered to pay the girls' mother if they didn't testify against him. [TU] [Daily Gazette $]

The cold weather has prompted a rise in home heating oil prices. [WTEN]

(there's more)

State of the State today, hundreds show up for save-the-Y meeting, Some Girls "in jeopardy," Murphy says he was "clotheslined" in the House

David Paterson is scheduled to deliver his State of the State address this afternoon at 1 pm (webcast). He's expected to propose a set of reforms aimed at fighting political corruption. Among the proposals: terms limits for legislators and a requirement that legislators disclose their outside income. [NYT] [TU]

The executive director of the Capital District YMCA said last night at a community meeting that the Washington Ave location -- which is on the verge of closing -- lost almost $400k last year. He said the location currently has 1800 memberships -- and, to stay open, needs 2500 by April and 3500 by the end of the year. About 400 people showed up for the meeting. [TU] [@sebastienbarre] [ACO]

The Duanesburg Central School District announced yesterday that almost $3 million had been stolen from its accounts electronically last month. The district says about $2.5 million has been recovered. The theft came to light after the district's bank flagged a transaction to an overseas bank account. A district official says they thought they had "the proper safeguards in place" to prevent such a crime. The FBI and state police are investigating. The district says it does not believe the theft was an inside job. The district has a budget of $15 million. [Daily Gazette $] [CapNews9] [CBS6] [WTEN] [Fox23] [TU] [WNYT]

After years of planning, the Albany Police Department recently installed cameras in its patrol cars. Here's press release explaining how the system works. [TU] [APD]

(there's more)

Mayor says Albany faces "financial tsunami," ESP man caver gets a year in jail, Skidmore moves into new Zankel Center

During his state of the city speech last night, Jerry Jennings said Albany is facing the possibility of a "a financial tsunami" in 2011. The mayor said the city will be bringing in outside financial consultants to help develop a plan. He also continued his call for "appropriate equitable state aid" to the city. [WTEN] [TU] [CapNews9]

The janitor who pleaded guilty in the ESP Man Cave case was sentenced to a year in jail and scolded for bringing "contempt and ridicule" on state workers. [CapNews9] [TU]

Parts of the Cannon Building on Monument Square in Troy have re-opened after the building inspectors shut it down for code violations. Harry Tutunjian tweeted yesterday that the building is still without water. [TU] [@TroyMayor]

The new president of the Schenectady city council is calling for voters to dump the city's school board members in the spring elections. [TU]

(there's more)

Thruway tolls increase, Albany schools to use lottery, the weekend in crime, the first baby of 2010

Thruway tolls went up five percent on Sunday, for both cash and EZ-Pass. State comptroller Tom DiNapoli criticized the increase, calling it "the last thing New Yorkers need now." [AP/Saratogian] [Fox23] [NYS OSC] [WNYT]

A 78-year-old woman was killed in Schenectady Saturday night after she was struck by a pick-up truck while crossing State Street near Proctors. The woman had been volunteering at the theater. The SPD says it's investigating the accident. [Daily Gazette $] [TU] [Fox23] [CapNews9]

Troy police say a man stole an idling SUV -- with two kids in it -- from outside a grocery store Friday morning. The TPD says the kids were found 45 minutes later, unharmed, along with the SUV. They say the suspect was arrested later that day. [Troy Record] [TU] [Troy Record]

Officials from the YMCA will be holding a meeting with the public this week to talk about what might be done to save the Washington Ave location in Albany. [Troy Record]

The Albany school district will be switching to a lottery system for filling slots in its pre-k programs. The old system was first-come-first-pick-wait-all-night. [TU]

(there's more)

Fatal shooting in Schenectady, kids credited with saving horses from fire, Cannon Building shut down, push to redevelop First Prize Center

Police say a man was shot and killed yesterday in Schenectady -- allegedly by his girlfriend's former husband. Police say they've arrested the alleged shooter, who they say is an active duty serviceman who was on holiday leave. [CapNews9] [TU] [Fox23] [WTEN]

Schenectady cop Dwayne Johnson pleaded not guilty yesterday to the 15 counts in his indictment, which include four felonies. Prosecutors allege that Johnson defrauded the city by working as a security guard at a gas station while he supposed to be on duty. Johnson topped the pay chart for Schenectady cops last year thanks to overtime pay. [Daily Gazette $] [CapNews9] [TU] [WTEN]

A group of "kids" is being credited with helping to save a bunch of horses* from a big barn fire in Colonie. A 12-year-old was apparently among the first to smell smoke and take action to evacuate the animals. All the horses were saved. The Gazette has a remarkable photo of the fire, which firefighters say was stoked by strong winds. [CBS6] [WTEN] [CapNews9] [Daily Gazette] [TU]

Three adults and one teen in Knox pleaded not guilty yesterday to charges they tortured and blew up a turtle last year. Police say they found video of the alleged turtle bombing this year during a raid for an Internet scam case. [Troy Record] [CapNews9] [TU]

(there's more)

State comptroller says Medicaid is "leaking" millions, 89-year-old accused of attempted murder-suicide, electricity rates going up, The Missile pleads guilty

State comptroller Tom DiNapoli reported yesterday that New York's Medicaid system is "leaking" millions of dollars. He says the program lost $92 million over the last five years to errors, improper payments and poor record keeping. Among the improper payments cited by the comptroller: $196,000 in cab rides for a woman to travel daily from Dutchess County to Albany to visit her son. [NYS OSC] [NYT] [TU]

The Troy city council and mayor Harry Tutunjian were in court yesterday in an attempt to resolve their budget dispute. They didn't -- and now a judge will rule. [Troy Record] [TU]

Niskayuna police say an 89-year-old man tried to kill his 87-year-old sister as part of an attempted murder-suicide last week. He's been charged with attempted murder. [TU] [CapNews9]

Real estate agents say the federal first-time home buyer tax credit led to a surge in closed sales in the Capital Region last month (up 36 percent from last year, though only about 2 percent from 2007). There's still a lot of inventory. [TU] [AOA]

(there's more)

Investigation finds fraud at state forensics lab, Paterson talking about layoffs again, homeless shelters jammed, another bank robbery attempt

A investigation by the state inspector general concludes that Gary Veeder, a former state police forensic scientist, "routinely" failed to conduct a required test on fiber evidence and then lied about performing the test in case records. Twenty-six of the cases were from the Capital Region. State police say it does not appear the fraudulent testing affected any convictions. The IG's report also concludes that Veeder was able to get away with the fraudulent work for years because "laboratory staff's technical, or peer, reviews of Veeder's fiber examinations were substandard, overlooking obvious indications that Veeder had omitted the required fiber test." State police say they're bringing in an outside consultant to address the problem. Veeder is now dead -- he committed suicide at his home in Vorheesville last year. [NYS IG] [Fox23] [WNYT] [NYT] [TU]

The Saratoga County sheriff's deputy accused of forcing an acquaintance to perform a sex act on him while he was on duty has been indicted on 11 new charges. Saratoga County DA James Murphy says three more women have stepped forward to accuse the deputy of similar crimes. [TU] [Saratogian]

Federal prosecutors are predicting jail time for Joe Bruno. [NYDN]

David Paterson says state worker layoffs will be back on the table if state revenues continue to drop. [NYP]

Steven Raucci will stay in jail after a state appeals court affirmed a lower court's decision to deny him bail. The TU and the Daily Gazette are now suing the Schenectady school district for access to its investigation of Raucci. The district has already released a version of the report -- but it was heavily redacted. [Daily Gazette $] [TU] [Daily Gazette $] [TU]

State DEC scientists report that bat populations are down 90 percent in caves where they're studying "white nose syndrome." "We don't have a lot of years to figure this out," says a DEC scientist. [NYS DEC] [TU]

(there's more)

Education groups sue over state aid, Schumer apologizes to flight attendant, police say stolen Timberlands kicked off chase, Albany councilman calls for cancellation of "Jersey Shore"

A coalition of education groups -- headed by NYSUT -- filed suit against David Paterson yesterday in attempt to eliminate the delay in education aid payments. The coalition argues that Paterson has overstepped his authority -- and the uncertainty created the action is making budgeting difficult. Paterson accused the coalition of trying to be "extra special" interest groups. [TU] [NYT] [Fox23] [Daily Politics]

Saratoga Springs' finance commissioner says the city may have to borrow money to cover the gap created by delayed state aid payments. [Saratogian]

Democrats in the Rensselaer County legislature says three incoming Republicans should not be allowed to serve in both the county legislature and their town boards. One of the incoming Republicans called the practice "totally legal." [TU] [Troy Record]

Richard Daines, New York's health commissioner, got an H1N1 shot during a photo opp yesterday. Even though flu activity in the state is decling, Daines called the flu a "tricky virus" and urged people to still get vaccinated. [CapNews9] [TU] [Fox23]

Chuck Schumer apologized yesterday for calling a flight attendant a "bitch" after she told him to stop talking on his mobile phone. Kirsten Gillibrand was sitting next to him on the plane (and apparently did end her call) and Republicans are now criticizing her for not publicly condemning Schumer's actions. [NYDN] [Politico] [NYT] [Daily Politics]

(there's more)

State school aid cuts detailed, state police report on I-90 shootout, town's bond rating downgraded to junk, the $40,000 tree

The state Division of Budget released a breakdown of how much funding would be held back from each school district as part of David Paterson's cut-for-solvency. Among the Capital Region districts, Albany took the largest hit (in absolute terms) -- $744,643. Albany's interim superintendent says the district had been anticipating the cuts and had already started trimming its budget. David Paterson said this week that the districts could eventually receive the delayed money if the state's fiscal condition improves. NYSUT is leading a coalition that plans to file suit over the delays/cuts. [Daily Politics] [CapCon] [TU] [NYT] [WTEN]

The state Board of Elections has finally approved new voting machines. [TU]

David Paterson is expected to extend anti-discrimination protections to transgender state employees today. [NYT]

A State Police investigation reports that the man at the center of January's shoot-out on I-90 was probably high on PCP and yelled for police to shoot him (which they eventually did -- he later died). They also released video of the incident from a camera in a state trooper's car. State Police say it appears the man was on the run from crimes in Connecticut. One effect of the shoot-out: the state police troop based in Loudonville is now equipped with 48 patrol semi-automatic rifles. [Daily Gazette $] [Troy Record] [Fox23] [WTEN] [CapNews9] [TU]

(there's more)

Troy budget veto overridden, APD leaning toward community policing, Paterson looking for a "hand back," trailer runs into overpass

The Troy city council voted to override Harry Tutunjian's budget veto last night -- and now Tutunjian says he'll take the issue to court. The mayor says he would go jail before certifying what he calls an "imbalanced" budget. He also accused members of the city council of lying and distorting the truth. Council president Clement Campana said the council was within its rights to adjust the mayor's budget. [TU] [Troy Record] [Fox23] [@TroyMayor] [CapNews9]

The Albany police department appears to be leaning toward an embrace of community policing again. (Question: Why are fundamental policy decisions being made before a new chief comes on board?) [TU]

Now that Colonie has tightened its rules on motels that house sex offenders, Albany County Social Services has been placing them in homeless shelters and apartments in the city of Albany, according to a county spokesperson. [TU]

Saratoga Springs police say they're still investigating an incident last Friday that resulted in a man being shot in the leg. [Saratogian] [TU]

(there's more)

Paterson says he's cutting local aid to keep state solvent, downtown Albany Y could close, yet another bank robbery, sinkhole swallows car, more quakes in Berne

David Paterson announced yesterday that he's unilaterally withholding $750 million in aid to local governments and schools in order to keep the state solvent. Said Paterson at the announcement, "I can't say this enough: The state has run out of money. We are $1 billion short." He also blamed the legislature, again, for not addressing the state's budget gap. A spokesman for the state Senate majority called Paterson's action "self-indulgent theatrics." [TU] [NYDN] [NYO] [NYT]

A state panel's draft report, obtained by NYT, says that New York State's juvenile prisons are in such bad shape that family court judges should stop sending all but the most dangerous offenders to them. [NYT]

The lawyer for De Von Callicut, the teen accused of firing the shot that killed Richard Bailey, is trying to get Callicut's statement to police tossed because he didn't have an attorney present. [TU]

A state lawyer told a state Supreme Court judge that the planned expansion of the Albany landfill would be its last -- probably. [TU]

Saratoga Springs are investigating an early Friday morning shooting. [Saratogian]

Albany police are investigating a car-to-car shooting around noon on Saturday near Hoffman Park (map). [WNYT] [Fox23]

(there's more)

Joe Bruno convicted, state managers upset they're not getting a raise, another bank robbery, cash for clunker appliances, crackdown on deer jacking

A federal jury convicted Joe Bruno on two felony counts of mail fraud. (here's a breakdown of the counts). "It was very hard to convict him when he's done so much for the area," said the juryforewoman to the TU. As he exited the courthouse, Bruno said to reporters: "It's not over till it's over and I think it's far from over." It sounds like Bruno is already planning an appeal. He faces up to 40 years in jail and $500k in fines -- though the judge has broad sentencing discretion. [TU] [Troy Record] [TU] [Troy Record] [Buffalo News] [NYT]

The Albany County legislature has approved a budget that includes a 5.9 percent tax increase* -- and keeps 100 jobs that were slated to be cut. (*The Record says the legislature approved a budget with a 5.4 percent tax increase, as opposed to county exec Mike Breslin's proposed 5.9 percent.) [TU] [CapNews9] [Troy Record]

Schenectady police say a man was shot on Hamburg street early this morning (map). [TU]

State management and confidential employees are upset that they're not getting raises -- even though the unionized people they supervise are. [TU]

(there's more)

Movement on state budget gap, Bruno trial jurors say they're stuck, Saratoga chiefs retiring, still no public release of plan for Harriman, police say guard was tied up during safe robbery

The state Assembly passed a deficit reduction bill during the middle of the night -- the bill falls short of making all the necessary cuts, though. The state Senate is scheduled to vote on a budget gap bill today. [NYO] [Daily Politics] [TU]

The Assembly also passed the same-sex marriage bill again. Who knows if the Senate will vote on the bill. [NYDN] [NYO]

Joe Bruno Trial: The jury said yesterday that it had reached a verdict on two counts (which ones and what verdict unknown) -- but was stuck on the six other counts. Judge Gary Sharpe then basically told them to keep trying. The Bruno camp appeared to be heartened by the development. [Troy Record] [NYT] [TU]

Saratoga Springs' police and fire chiefs announced yesterday that they're retiring. The chiefs say they hope their retirements will helps save the jobs of younger members of their departments slated for layoffs. Both chiefs make about $100k. [TU] [Saratogian] [Post-Star]

The SUNY central office says it will not be investigating allegations that SUNY Cobleskill allowed unqualified students into the school just so it could get their tuition money. The allegations are part of a suit filed by a former dean, who alleges that the school discriminated against African-American students from NYC by lowering its admission standards in order to balance its budget. [TU] [CapNews9]

(there's more)

Culinary boot camp at SCCC

kitchen knivesThis could be an interesting/fun food experience: SCCC and the Chamber of Schenectady County are offering a three day culinary "boot camp" in January. It's pricy, but it could be worth it if you're a serious foodie or have been curious about a culinary career.

Via Wendy Voelker, one of the organizers:

Schenectady's Culinary Boot Camp is a three-day, two-night culinary workshop, offering food lovers and novices alike the opportunity to learn classic cooking techniques, taste ingredients, and share a great experience with fellow foodies. ...
The three days of professional instruction by Chef [Christoper] Tanner are centered on the theme "A Taste of Tuscany." Students will learn about traditional Italian cuisines, classic Italian ingredients, Antipasti, Primi (pasta, polenta & risotto), Italian ingredients, pairing wine with Italian dishes, and creating Italian desserts. Brief seminars blended with extensive hands-on cooking time will offer students a true interactive culinary experience (which even includes a professional chef's coat)!

The course runs January 3-6. It's $590 ($690 with hotel stay in Schenectady).

photo: Flickr user Kent Wang

A few things to do Thanksgiving morning

golf course closedIf you're not among the approximately 7,000 people planning on Turkey Trotting Thursday morning in Troy, chrisck sent along a few things to do:

1. The Mohawk and Hudson River Humane Society is having a dog walk at Capital Hills golf course in Albany from 9 am to 11 am. Golf season is over now and anyone can walk there for free (as Otto knows), but that morning will be an opportunity to help out the animal shelter.

2. I saw in the TU Reglion calendar that there are two Polka Masses in the area Thursday morning. Both 10:00 am, at the Church of St. Adalbert (550 Lansing St, Schenectady) and St. Michael's Church (36 Page Ave, Cohoes). Non-perishable food items for the food pantry will be collected at both masses. Polka masses are a pretty interesting Polish-American phenomenon, even a bit controversial since some Catholics consider the music profane because it is "dance music."

Know of anything else interesting going on Thanksgiving morning? Please share.

Movement at the Capitol, executives said they didn't know why they were paying Bruno, woman charged for not getting treatment for her dog, school district denies Whalen's appeal

There was movement on legislation at the Capitol yesterday -- just not on the deficit reduction plan. The Assembly passed -- and the Senate apparently is about to -- a bill that reforms the hundreds of quasi-independent state authorities (such as the Thruway Authority). Richard Brodsky, the assemblyman behind the bill, says the authorities have been "rogue institutions" that resembled "Soviet-style bureaucracies" and called the the bill "the most fundamental reform of Albany in decades." [TU] [NYT] [NYO] [NYDN]

And in a display that the Capitol can move quickly, the Senate passed and David Paterson signed a bill called "Leandra's Law" yesterday (the Assembly passed it on Tuesday) that makes it a felony drive drunk with a child in the car. The law also requires that anyone convicted of DWI to have an interlock device installed in their car. The new rules have been described as the toughest DWI law in the country. [NYT] [CNN] [CapNews9] [Wikipedia] [CBS News]

Not present for the last two days of the special session: Sen. Ruben Diaz Sr, who says he's been in the Bronx distributing turkeys. [NYO]

Joe Bruno Trial Day 12: Prosecutors focused on hundreds of thousands of dollars in consulting fees that a series of telecommunications companies paid Bruno -- even though executives for those companies apparently didn't know why they were paying the senator. It also came to light that Bruno helped steer $500k in state grants to a Troy firm connected to two longtime friends/associates, one of whom apparently had a deal with the company to get paid stock in return for helping to score the money (he says Bruno's consulting wasn't connected to the money). A former attorney for the state Senate also testified that he had a "CYA" file to keep notes of his dealings with Bruno regarding ethics issues. And Judge Gary Sharpe scold of the day: "Let the record show the witness made a disgusted glance." [NYT] [NYDN] [TU] [Troy Record] [TU] [Fox23]

(there's more)

Bruno speaks out about case, dog found duct-taped and bagged, another student mugging in Pine Hills, Albany High production prompted by protests

Joe Bruno called into Talk 1300 yesterday to complain about the federal case against him. During the segment, Bruno said of the federal investigation of him: "I wasn't a terrorist.... I never abused the public trust that people put in me. I never, never used politics to make money. I just didn't do that." Bruno's comments may not go over well with the judge presiding of his case, who has warned both sides in the trial about speaking outside of court -- and just the day before said scolded them in court: "This is not an election campaign." [NYDN] [TU] [TU] [NYT]

About Gary Sharpe, the judge in the Bruno trial: An op-ed in the Troy Record this past weekend questioned whether the judge had a conflict of interest because his son works as a prosecutor in the Albany US Attorney's office -- the same office that's prosecuting Bruno. The head of that office told the NYDN yesterday that Sharpe's son has had no involvement with the case. [Troy Record] [NYDN]

David Paterson said he will pull the $25 fee for the new "EmpireGold" license plates -- if someone can come up with a way to replace the $129 million the fee is projected to contribute to the state budget. [NY Post]

The Paterson Administration projects that increases in the fee that retailers pay to be sellers of tobacco products will reduce the number of tobacco retail outlets by 40 percent. [TU]

A group of hunters in Saratoga County say they found a dog wrapped in duct tape and stuffed in a garbage bag. [WNYT]

(there's more)

Bruno trial Day 3, shouting over post office closures, seasonal flu still on the way, "water celery" snags development plans, school lunches go local

Joe Bruno trial Day 3: a former official with a Connecticut investment firm testified called Bruno an "introducer" and said the senator brought $140 million worth of investments to the firm. And an attorney for the investment group, testifying with an immunity deal, said Bruno relationship with the firm wasn't vetted by the ethics committee because it was "commonplace." Yesterday also included testimony by NY Daily News columnist Bill Hammond and SPAC president Marcia White, who was once Bruno's spokesperson. [TU] [CapNews9] [Fox23]

Andrew Cuomo announced yesterday that his office has filed an anti-trust suit against Intel for allegedly abusing its monopoly power to keep AMD down. Any penalties assessed against Intel could help AMD, which is the biggest customer of GlobalFoundries -- Cuomo says the GloFo chip fab project in Malta had nothing to do with the suit, though. [NYO][NYT][TU]

The man accused of being the shooter in Troy's Second Street homicide was released on his own recognizance yesterday after the Rensselaer County DA's office wasn't ready for a preliminary hearing. [TU]

More than a hundred people showed up for the public info session about the potential closures of the Pine Hills and Delaware Ave post offices. The crowd included Jerry Jennings, and Common Council members Shawn Morris and Cathy Fahey. The exchanges between the crowd and USPS officials apparently got a bit heated at times. [TU] [CapNews9] [Fox23]

(there's more)

Opening statements in Bruno trial, Aretha Franklin coming to RPI, investigation into Paterson World Series tickets, cops say man was wearing a Breathalyzer costume, naked sprint around the Nott

A jury was selected for Joe Bruno's federal trial yesterday. Each side also delivered its opening statement. The prosecution said Bruno used his influence at the capitol to rake in more than $3 million from clients. Bruno's defense said he's "a hardworking, honest public servant" and the feds had made a mistake. As he entered the courthouse yesterday, Bruno told reporter he had been "looking forward to this day." [CapNews9] [NYT] [Troy Record] [TU] [NYSNYS via Daily Politics]

GlobalFoundries has announced that Hector Ruiz is stepping down as chairman of the board. The WSJ reported in October that the feds had identified Ruiz as the AMD executive who leaked news of the impending formation of GlobalFoundries to a hedge fund last year. The new chairman will be Alan Ross, who had been the CEO of another semi-conductor company. GloFo says Ruiz's exit will have no effect on plans for the Luther Forest chip fab. [NYT] [San Jose Mercury News] [TU] [Saratogian]

The Albany County Department of Health reported its first death associated with the H1N1 flu. The ACDoH says the teen had a "longstanding underlying medical condition." The county health commissioner said the news was not cause for alarm and "the vast majority of individuals" will recover. [TU] [WTEN] [Troy Record] [CapNews9]

The Albany County Department of Health says the death of a county resident has been associated with the contaminated ground beef that was recently recalled. The beef was produced by a company in western New York and distributed throughout the East Coast. Locally, the beef had been available at Price Chopper, which has been contacting people to notify them of the recall. [Fox23] [NYT] [TU] [@ChrisRooney]

Aretha Franklin and Joshua Bell will performing at EMPAC in December as part of a celebration of Shirley Ann Jackson's 10 years at RPI (or, as @supraphonic @timesunion called it yesterday; Shirleystock). The performances will not be open to the general public. (Earlier on AOA: RPI's Jackson tops compensation chart) [RPInsider] [TU] [AP/CBS6]

(there's more)

Bruno trial starts today, homicide in Albany, speculation about connections between deaths in Greenfield, toddler found because of lights on his shoes

Joe Bruno's federal trial starts today. The feds are prosecuting him under a "theft of honest services" statute -- the feds allege that Bruno made more than $3 million in consulting fees from groups who benefited from his influence in state government. The case is expected to shine a light on the many of the gaps in New York State's ethics laws. Apparently some people are saying the case is almost like putting the entire culture of the capitol on trial. Bruno has already spent more than $600k on his defense. [TU] [AP/Saratogian] [TU] [NYT] [AP/Troy Record]

Albany police say a man was killed on Saturday in an Eagle Street apartment just down the block from the Governor's Mansion (map). The APD says there are no suspects, yet. [Fox23] [TU]

Troy police say a man has been arrested and charged for the murder on Second Street two weeks ago. They didn't release info about a motive. Police say information from people in the neighborhood helped lead them to the suspect. [TU] [Troy Record] [WNYT]

The Schenectady city council approved a budget that does not include a tax increase. The originally-proposed budget had included an almost six percent increase. [TU][TU]

New York State's texting-while-driving ban took effect yesterday. [Fox23]

(there's more)

Human skull fragments in Saratoga County, flu hitting some schools, school board hears Whalen appeal, Rensselaer stations Amtrak's 10th busiest

State police say fragments of a human skull were found in a wooded area in Greenfield (map). They say it appears the skull belonged to a child 10-12 years old. The state police lab will be testing the fragments for DNA. [TU] [Fox23] [Saratogian] [CapNews9]

The Empire Center reports that 1.5 million New Yorkers have moved out of the state since 2000. The one area to show a population gain: the Capital Region. [Empire Center] [CapNews9] [Post-Star]

A spokesman for the state Office of Court Administration says judges are leaving the bench because "they can't make ends meet" on their $136,700 salary. The state's judiciary has been pushing for a pay raise for years. [TU]

Albany police say four men, armed with guns, invaded a house on Washington Ave yesterday (map). Police say the it appears the house was targeted. They say the robbers used zip-ties to tie up seven people in the house. [Fox23] [CapNews9] [TU]

Some Capital Region schools are reporting higher than usual rates of absenteeism because of the flu. Notre Dame-Bishop Gibbons cancelled classes yesterday because so many students were sick. [TU] [WTEN]

(there's more)

TOP 2009: Round 2: Schenectady

RD2 schenectady

Downtown vs. uptown.

Round 2 of the 2009 Tournament of Pizza, sponsored by Sunmark Federal Credit Union, rolls on to Schenectady today. Here's the match-up of sausage pizzas

Nico's vs. Marino's

First, how we got here. Nico's beat out Latham entry Ario's 59-45 with a pie that was consistently just a little bit better. Marino's pulled a shocking 62-59 upset over Pizza King, last year's tournament runner-up

So, who wants the crown?

Bring on the pizza!

sunmark pizza banner

(there's more)

Thomas found guilty, guilty plea in 40 year old murder, home sales falling through, upstate teaching jobs in high demand, busy beavers causing trouble

A jury found Adrian Thomas guilty of second-degree murder in the case of his infant son's death. The jury reached the decision Friday afternoon after 25 hours of deliberation. Thomas' stepmother says the verdict was influenced by race -- eleven of the jurors were white and one was African-American. Sentencing is scheduled for November 12. Thomas' attorneys say they will appeal. [Troy Record] [TU] [WTEN] [Fox23] [WNYT] [CBS6]

Nelson Costello, the man accused of killing David Bacon 40 years ago in Waterford, pleaded guilty to manslaughter Friday. Recordings of phone conversations between Costello and witness apparently helped prompt the plea. Costello's attorney says his client is remorseful and "almost wants to be punished." Costello has apparently agreed to help officials find Bacon's body in Virginia. [TU] [Saratogian] [WTEN] [WNYT]

There's been yet another report of an attempted abduction, this time in Albany (map). [Fox23] [WNYT]

Archaelogists have found the skeleton of an infant at the former grave site turned up during the Delaware Ave reconstruction in Albany. The remains will be re-buried at a cemetery in Glenmont. [CapNews9] [TU]

David Paterson has scheduled a special session of the legislature for November 10 to address the budget gap. He also wants a joint session on November 9. [NYO] [CapNews9]

(there's more)

State flu shot mandate cancelled, charges over ESP man cave, Paterson says Obama Admin cost state $1 billion, a big year for lady bugs

The state Department of Health has rescinded the flu shot mandate for health care workers. The DOH says there isn't enough vaccine to go around and the state would rather see the vax go to at-risk populations (young people, pregnant women). The Paterson Administration said the move was not related to the group of lawsuits filed over the mandate. [TU] [NYT] [NYDN]

The two men accused of being involved with the alleged "man cave" in the ESP have been hit with a bunch of charges that make the cave sound like some sort of stoner's paradise. Both men have pleaded not guilty. The attorney for one of the men said they were "shocked" to face charges over the cave "when there was actually a more publicized and egregious waste of tax money last spring as our state Senate sat around proud doing nothing while Rome burned." [Daily Politics] [AP/Troy Record] [TU]

A special meeting of the Troy city council turned into a bit of display as Democrats refused to show up and people ended up yelling at each other in front of TV cameras. Harry Tutunjian had called the meeting in an attempt to suspend three Democratic appointees accused of being involved with recent case of alleged voter fraud. [Troy Record] [TU]

Two alternate jurors from the Adrian Thomas trial say they would have voted "not guilty." [Fox23]

(there's more)

Official warns that state won't be able to pay bills, flu shot shortage, Troy will get money for homelessness after all, airlift wing headed for Antarctica

The state budget director says the state may not have enough cash to cover all its scheduled payments in mid-December. David Paterson and the legislative leaders met yesterday about covering the $3 billion budget gap, though it doesn't sound like they made much progress. Paterson said that the state is facing an economy that he believes will be "the worst we will see in our lifetime." [TU] [Daily Politics] [WTEN]

There was another mugging in downtown Troy. The TPD says its planning more community meetings about crime after a tip from the one this week lead to a drug bust. [Troy Record] [Fox23]

A judge has denied Save the Pine Bush's request for a restraining order that would have prevented the Albany landfill expanding from proceeding. [TU]

Public clinics and doctors' offices say they're having a tough time getting enough doses of seasonal flu vaccine. Saratoga County had to cancel its upcoming flu shot clinics because it couldn't get sufficient supplies. There have been flu shot shortages all around the US because of increased demand and the need to concurrently manufacture the vax for H1N1. [TU] [Post-Star] [NYT]

(there's more)

Troy police find guns during raid, suit filed over landfill expansion, local company dumps chamber of commerce over climate change legislation, sole tenant leaving Kiernan Plaza

Troy police say they found a shotgun and an assault rifle during raid connected to the investigation of last week's fatal shooting in south Troy. They also arrested a man. But they say the guns weren't used in the crime nor is the man a suspect. [Fox23] [CapNews9] [TU]

Save the Pine Bush is suing the City of Albany and the DEC in attempt to block expansion of the city landfill. A volunteer for the environmental org says the city "needs to adopt a rational solid waste policy that does not include destroying 15 acres of rare Pine Bush ecosystem." [AP/CBS6] [TU]

The judge in Adrian Thomas case has ruled that the jury will not hear testimony from dueling expert witnesses about the possibility of a coerced confession. Closing arguments are scheduled to start today. [Troy Record] [TU]

David Paterson said yesterday that he will be including the soda tax in next year's proposed budget. The Paterson Administration also said same-sex marriage will be on the agenda for next week's planned special legislative session. [WNYC] [NYDN]

(there's more)

TOP 2009: Round 1: Schenectady

RD1 Schenectady

Will the King reign again?

Round 1 of the 2009 Tournament of Pizza, sponsored by Sunmark Federal Credit Union, moves on to Schenectady (earlier results from Saratoga). The matchups for this round of cheese pizzas:

Nico's vs. Ario's

Marino's Flying Pizza vs. Pizza King

Can Nico's hold off its competitor from Route 7? Will the Pizza King -- #2 in the entire tournament last year -- reign again?

There was only one way to find out. The judges assembled at Proctors for the tasting...

sunmark pizza banner

(there's more)

Reaction to Paterson's proposed budget cuts, investigators say RPI student's death was homicide, state says it didn't know hotel owner was behind on taxes, Saratoga sued over Taser info

David Paterson has proposed $3 billion in cuts to this year's state budget. He said yesterday that "all of us will have to sacrifice to save the state." Sheldon Silver said Paterson "took the bull by the horns" -- but the governor's proposals were met with skepticism by state senators, and outrage from interest groups. [AOA] [Daily Politics] [NYT] [Daily Politics] [Daily Politics]

The man who was stabbed in Albany's Grand Street neighborhood last week has died -- the city's 8th homicide of the year. [CapNews9]

Private investigators hired by the family of the RPI student found dead of a gun shot in a Troy apartment last year say they have concluded the student was murdered. Troy detectives have said the case was a suicide -- but the private investigators accused the TPD of coming to that conclusion in "a rather imaginative way." [TU] [Troy Record] [Troy Record]

The state's Division of Human Rights has ruled that Saratoga Springs must pay 8 city employees damages of $10k each because the city had not provided sufficient facilities for female employees of the city's police department. The decision prompted squabbling between mayor Scott Johnson and public safety commissioner Ron Kim (who are both running for mayor this year) over who's to blame for the situation. [Daily Gazette $] [TU] [Saratogian]

(there's more)

State budget widens and Paterson warns of pain, Raucci to get pension even if convicted, Gillibrand pushes repeal of Don't Ask Don't Tell, goat kidnapped

New York State comptroller Tom DiNapoli now says the state's budget gap could be as big as $4.1 billion. David Paterson has said that he will release a slate of proposed budget cuts that would involve "pain." LG Richard Ravitch, who's helping Paterson with budget issues, says the plan will be "asking every agency in the government to cut back significantly." As bad as things might be this year, apparently the real problem is next year when the federal stimulus money ends. As one anonymous legislator told Liz Benjamin: "Then we're in deep sh*t." [TU] [NYT] [CapNews9] [Daily Politics]

Adrian Thomas, the Troy man charged with causing the death of his infant son, took the stand in his own defense yesterday -- and testified that he had lied during his videotaped interrogation by police. Thomas said he admitted to police that he slammed the child down so he "could go to the hospital and see my son and my wife." [Troy Record] [TU]

The Troy man shot in the head earlier this week has died. It's the third homicide of the year in Troy. The TPD says it's following leads. [Troy Record] [Fox23] [CapNews9]

Albany police have arrested two men -- one already in prison, the other 18 years old -- for a 2007 murder on Second Street. [TU]

The Lansingburgh High School student suspended for having a pocketknife in his car says he's been contacted by West Point and told the incident won't have any effect on his application to the service academy. [WTEN]

Steven Raucci, the now-retired Schenectady school district employee accused of arson, intimidation and harassment related to his former job, will receive a pension of $79,067 -- even if he's convicted. [TU]

(there's more)

DA says recent attempted abduction reports not unusual, man accused of throwing person into a fire, police taser man in Schenectady, David Hyde Pierce returns to Saratoga

Despite a recent string of reports, the Schenectady County DA says he doesn't believe there's been an unusual number of attempted abductions. [TU]

The state Department of Transportation says there's been an increase in the number of fender benders on Route 85 in Slingerlands where the roundabouts have been installed -- but fewer accidents involving injuries. The DOT reported a similar trend for the Malta roundabouts last year. [TU] [Daily Gazette $]

State Democrats have reportedly given David Paterson until December to turn his poll numbers around ahead of next year's gubernatorial race. [AP/TU]

The state has spent $19k to install hand sanitizer dispensers in state buildings -- including the Capitol -- around Albany. [PolitickerNY]

East Greenbush police say a man threw an 18-year-old into a bonfire during a party early Friday morning. The alleged victim reportedly suffered second degree burns on many parts of his body. The alleged tosser has been charged with first degree assault. [Fox23] [WTEN] [WNYT]

(there's more)

Paterson order state agencies to cut back, proposed Saratoga budget includes paid parking, natural gas prices down, teachers say they were secretly videotaped

David Paterson has ordered state agencies to cut their non-personnel expenses (travel, equipment, office supplies) by about 11 percent -- a move that his administration says will save the state $500 million. Paterson has been projecting that the state will face a $3 billion budget gap this year. He's been criticized for not setting an overarching lists of cuts -- but the governor says he's letting the legislature "participate in formulating that menu." [NYS DoB] [NYT] [AP/Troy Record] [TU]

The witness lists for both the prosecution and defense in the Joe Bruno trial include more than 100 names (with a lot of overlap). The lists include current state senators, current and former state officials, legislative staffers and two journalists. [Troy Record] [TU] [NYT]

The budget proposed by Saratoga Springs' finance commissioner includes a 7.8 percent tax increase, 50 job cuts and a plan for paid parking on city streets and lots. [Saratoga Springs] [Fox23] [TU] [Saratogian]

The first batch of H1N1 vaccine arrived in the Capital Region yesterday. Albany, Rensselaer, Saratoga and Schenectady counties have all received limited quantities (in the hundreds of doses). Albany Med received 1000 doses. The focus on flu this year has apparently prompted a lot of interest in flu shots -- and local doctors' offices report that they they're having trouble getting shipments of the regular seasonal flu vaccine. [Daily Gazette $] [Fox23] [Saratogian] [Schenectady County] [CapNews9] [WTEN] [WNYT]

(there's more)

Finger pointed at "chief finger pointer," Luther Forest reportedly beat out Brazil and China, Schumer and Gillibrand hedge on Paterson, microloans in Watervliet

chester arthur birthday

A ceremony commemorating the 180th birthday of President Chester A. Arthur yesterday at his grave in the Albany Rural Cemetery. (Photo: Matt Ryan)

Democrats in Rensselaer County have hit back at allegations of absentee ballot fraud by accusing Republicans of similar electoral wrongdoing. The Dems are focusing their attention of Republican Bob Mirch, who they're calling -- we kid you not -- the "chief finger pointer." [TU] [Troy Record]

Brian Stratton's proposed Schenectady budget includes an almost 6 percent tax increase. Stratton says the city is facing "challenging times," which include big increases in pension and healthcare costs. [TU] [Fox23]

Albany police say a 16-year-old girl reported being temporarily abducted on Second Street yesterday. It's the second reported abduction attempt in the city in a week. [CBS6] [Fox23]

GlobalFoundries chairman Hector Ruiz told the National Press Club that Luther Forest beat out sites in Brazil, China and Russia for the new chip fab. [TU]

(there's more)

Reaction to APD shame sign, man found dead near the Egg, Paterson and Ravitch reportedly at odds, Other Guys shoot wraps, local woman on Jeopardy tonight

A spokesman for the APD says the light-up sign on Central Ave that's set to display the names of people arrested for soliciting prostitute is no different from mug shots appearing in the local news. The spokesman says city attorneys don't foresee any legal issues with the sign. Defense attorneys aren't so sure about that. [CBS6] [WNYT] [Fox23] [TU]

A state Supreme Court judge has thrown out 39 of the allegedly fraudulent Troy absentee ballots. [TU]

A man was found dead Saturday morning at the foot of the ESP wall below the Egg near Lancaster Street. Police say they're investigating, though it appears the man fell. [Troy Record] [Fox23] [WNYT]

GlobalFoundries' "Fab 1" in Dresden, Germany -- which was built by AMD in 1998 -- is now at the center of a cluster that employs 35,000 people. [Saratogian]

(there's more)

Voters testify about alleged ballot fraud, man arrested for shooting dogs, Troy police set trap for suspected muggers, live poultry market opens

A string of Troy residents testified in court yesterday that that their absentee ballot applications contained fraudulent information. And the voters mentioned that a handful of Troy city and Democratic officials had approached them with absentee ballots. A state Supreme Court judge will decide whether the ballots should be tossed from the recent Working Families primary election. [CapNews9] [Troy Record] [WNYT] [TU]

The allegations of ballot fraud spilled over into last night's Troy city council meeting. Democrats and Republicans squabbled over a proposed resolution that would suspend two city marshals who have been accused of being involved with the alleged scheme. [CBS6] [Troy Record]

And handful of local municipalities released proposed budgets: Jerry Jennings' Albany budget keeps the tax levy the same, but shifts more of it onto residential tax payers; Harry Tutunjian's proposed Troy budget includes a 4.25 percent property tax increase; the proposed Colonie budget keeps the tax levy the same, but shifts a little more on commercial property owners; Clifton Park's proposed budget uses $900k from its reserve fund to balance the budget. [TU][Troy Record] [TU] [TU]

The Albany County sheriff's department announced yesterday that it had arrested a man for shooting those two dogs in Berne. Police say the man told them he killed the dogs because they were killing his chickens. The man's attorney says the dogs also killed two calves and threatened the man's family. The sheriff's department says the man isn't being charged under Buster's Law because he didn't kill the dogs in a "depraved or sadistic manner." [TU] [WNYT] [CapNews9] [Fox23]

(there's more)

First H1N1 shots on the way, more concern about mercury near LaFarge, man accused of trying to force snot burger, Troy library district approved, reward increased for dog shooting info

Upstate New York will be getting 100,000 doses of the H1N1 flu vaccine next week. More doses will apparently be on the way later this year. [AP/TU] [Saratogian]

Several hundred healthcare workers were at the Capitol yesterday protesting state regulations requiring them to get a flu shot. They said they're worried about having to serve as "guinea pigs" for the new flu shot against their will. Richard Daines, the state's health commissioner, says the H1N1 vaccine has been prepared the same way as the regular seasonal flu vaccine -- and healthcare worker vaccination is a matter of patient safety. [Troy Record] [CapNews9] [Fox23] [CBS6]

State wildlife pathologist Ward Stone reported yesterday that tests he performed on soil samples from the neighborhoods near the LaFarge cement plant in Ravena indicate elevated levels of mercury. Stone says much of the mercury is from the plant. (Previous studies have reported that the plant is one of the state's biggest emitters of mercury. Erin Brockovich was recently in Ravena on behalf of a law firm to talk with residents about mercury pollution.) Stone did not conduct the study as part of his job with the state -- and the DEC says it will review the results. [CapNews9] [Fox23] [TU] [WNYT] [TU]

Crews working on the Delaware Ave reconstruction project turned up what appears to be five coffins from the 19th century. Archaeologists will be checking out the site today. Jack McEneny says the coffins are probably left over from an old cemetery that was moved in 1910. [Fox23] [CapNews9] [TU]

Schenectady police say a man has been charged with child endangerment after an incident in which he allegedly tried to make his girlfriend's daughter eat a hamburger with his snot on it. [TU]

(there's more)

Special prosecutor appointed for Troy absentee ballot case, Breslin reportedly calls Espada a crook, healthcare workers protest flu shot requirement, brown bats threatened by fungus

A special prosecutor has been appointed to look into the allegations of absentee ballot fraud in Troy. The city housing authority has also locked down the office an employee accused of participating in the alleged scheme, which would have benefited Democrats. Democratic city councilman Clem Campana said yesterday he's "done nothing wrong." And the Rensselaer County Democratic chairman struck back at Republican Bob Mirch, who brought the alleged to scheme light, saying, "Mirch wrote the book on absentee ballot corruption." [Troy Record] [TU] [CapNews9] [WTEN]

Neil Breslin reportedly told a church crowd in Bethlehem this past weekend that Pedro Espada is a "crook" who "should be in jail." He also apparently told the crowd that Espada doesn't actually live in his Bronx district. Breslin has been talking recently about organizing a reform group in the state Senate because he's "embarrassed" by what's gone on in the chamber. [PolitickerNY] [Jay Gallagher] [Daily Politics]

De Von Callicutt, the 19-year-old accused of firing that shot that killed UAlbany student Richard Bailey, showed up in court yesterday without a lawyer. That's the second time his arraignment has been delayed for that reason. Callicutt is already in state prison for a different crime. [TU] [WTEN] [CapNews9]

Schenectady police have arrested a man for last September's Albany St. murder. [TU]

Personal information for 300,000 state and local employees could be at risk because of a security breach at Express Scripts, the company that manages pharmacy benefits for the Empire Plan. Hackers apparently stole the information last year and have been trying to extort the company. Letters notifying people of the breach went out to some local state workers during the past two weeks. [TU] [CNET] [Fox23] [CBS6]

Saratoga Springs' school superintendent says the district may reconsider its ban on elementary and middle school students biking or walking to school. [TU]

(there's more)

Fight over funds for homeless in Troy, Ellis to continue mayoral run, attempted abduction reported in Schenectady, Cohoes goes flashy

A spokesman for Harry Tutunjian says the Troy mayor's move to turn down $845k in federal money aimed at helping the homeless was "politically courageous." The mayor's administration has said the city doesn't have the money necessary to hire someone to administer the funding -- though critics have suggested the move is political payback. [TU] [Troy Record]

It appears that Corey Ellis will continue his Albany mayoral campaign on the Working Families in the general election. Ellis lost the Democratic primary to Jerry Jennings 56-44. [TU]

Leif Engstrom has come out as the winner the Democratic primary for the newly created job of Albany city auditor. There's no general election opponent, so the job is his. [TU]

A Marist poll reports that a majority of New Yorkers don't want David Paterson to run for governor -- but they also would rather not have Barack Obama be the one to push Paterson out. [Marist] [Daily Politics] [PolitickerNY]

In a radio interview yesterday David Paterson basically said that Andrew Cuomo would have bad poll numbers, too, if he were governor right now. [PolitickerNY]

PEF -- one of the two biggest state worker unions -- says it will be lobbying David Paterson to approve more $20k buyouts for its members. [TU]

RPI says it now appears five students have come down with the H1N1 influenza. The school has set up 90 isolation rooms to handle a potential flu outbreak. In an email, the school's medical director said "the number of cases could change very quickly." Sage also reported this week that two of its students have H1N1. [CapNews9] [Troy Record] [RPInsider] [CBS6]

(there's more)

Paterson says he never expected to be Gov, another person arrested for turtle bombing, chief suspended for slur, Schenectady overrun with kingergartners

Yesterday wasn't exactly a day of ringing support for David Paterson. Of Paterson's vow to run for governor in 2010, Sheldon Silver said, "I think, right now, I support him for governor." And at a Capitol leaders meeting, Senate leader John Sampson publicly doubted Paterson's estimate of a $3 billion midyear budget gap by saying his conference "doesn't believe in government by guesswork." Paterson says he'll be calling the legislature back at some point to address the gap. [AP/Troy Record] [PolitickerNY] [TU] [WTEN]

Paterson said yesterday in Syracuse that he never thought he'd be governor: "I did not sign up for this ... I wanted to be lieutenant governor. I had this grand plan that Hillary Clinton was going to become president. Maybe the governor would appoint me to the Senate." But he said he's still planning to run next year -- probably. [NYT] [NYDN]

The Schenectady County legislature has approved a county budget that will cut taxes a little more than two percent. Republicans -- who are in the minority -- criticized the cut as an election year ploy. [Daily Gazette $] [TU]

A group of Albany County legislators is proposing that the county build a new nursing home to replace the current facility. County exec Mike Breslin has been pushing to close the existing home in favor of placing residents in private facilities and in-home care. [TU]

(there's more)

Jennings wins Democratic mayoral primary, Joe Bruno takes a turn on the swings, plane headed for Saratoga crashes, dogs found shot

Jerry Jennings topped Corey Ellis in the Albany mayoral Democratic primary with 7,615 to 5,971 (that's 56 percent to 44 percent). At his victory party, Jennings told the crowd he "wasn't going to walk away from this city in a very challenging time." Ellis told supporters that he would "continue to fight for this city" and that "this fight is just beginning." Ellis also said problems at polling sites held down his vote total. [CBS6] [TU] [CapNews9]

In other Albany primary results: Carolyn McLaughlin beat Lenny Ricciuti for Common Council president, Kathy Sheehan won big over incumbent Betty Barnette for treasurer and Leif Engstrom holds a 225 vote lead over Darius Shahinfar for city auditor. [CapNews9] [TU]

The whole list of primary results: Albany County | Rensselaer County | Saratoga County | Schenectady County

As the jury selection process started for his federal trial, Joe Bruno took a turn on the swings at a new playground in Troy that was built with Bruno Bacon. [TU] [CapNews9]

(there's more)

Rumors of Obama visit to the area, Paterson says layoffs on the table, more complaints about student behavior, a big garage sale mistake

It's primary day. Polls are open from noon to 9 pm. If you're not sure where to vote, you can look it up at the State Board of Elections site.

Rumors are swirling that President Obama will make an appearance the site of the GlobalFoundries chip fab project in Malta. A source tells the TU that the Obama Administration is "considering" it. WNYT reports that the Secret Service has been doing advance work. A source tells CBS6 that the White House has been interested in the chip fab and how community colleges are involved in training workers. A spokesman for GloFo told the Post-Star that he didn't know "anything definite." [TU] [WNYT] [CBS6] [Post-Star]

Troy Police say they're still trying to piece together the details of the incident that led to a man getting shot in the head. Neighbors say the man had told the group of teenagers in the street to quiet down before the shooting. One neighbor says the shooting "could have been prevented" because residents called police before it happened. Six teens have been arrested for fighting outside the house. [Troy Record] [TU] [WTEN] [WNYT]

The man police say was the shooter in the Second Street murder last month in Albany says he heard shots at the party and ran away. [TU]

David Paterson said yesterday that "everything is on the table" -- including state worker layoffs and furloughs -- in the discussion about how to close the $2.1 billion midyear budget gap. He's called a leaders meeting to work on the cuts. [PolitickerNY] [Daily Politics]

(there's more)

State Senate back to squabbling, gun violence team coming together, Troy shoot and kill dog, seniors say vultures weird them out

Yesterday's state Senate session fizzled as Democrats and Republicans fought over a new system for policing ethics. Democrats blamed Republicans for being obstinate and Republicans said Democrats were trying to design the system to their advantage. [TU] [NYT]

The squabble over ethics reform kept other issues off the Senate plate -- including the bill that would create a residential parking permit system for Albany. [PolitickerNY]

The implementation team for Albany's Gun Violence Task Force is coming together -- both the Common Council and Jerry Jennings announced their picks yesterday. The school district and the police department have yet to announce their selections. [TU] [CapNews9]

Two Schenectady women have been charged after police say they signed a contract to allow a 19-year-old guy to date a 13-year-old girl. [Fox23]

(there's more)

Police say shooting wasn't random, residential parking permits probably won't pass, Erin Brockovich coming to talk about mercury, quarters to depict Battles of Saratoga

Albany police say the shooting death of a man on North Pearl Street this week does not appear to be random. Albany County DA David Soares told residents of the apartment complex where the man was shot that the APD has its "best and the brightest working on this." A resident of the apartment complex said the APD used to have more of a presence in the neighborhood -- and she'd like to see it return. [Fox23] [TU] [Fox23]

In response to this latest shooting -- the fourth in a month -- mayoral candidate Corey Ellis said: "The City of Albany is under seige and we are in crisis." An APD spokesman asserted that the city is safe, though he said "when you have violent crimes that occur of this magnitude it gives you the perception that the streets aren't." [CBS6] [WTEN]

It appears that now-retired former APD chief James Tuffey has landed in a soft spot: BBL Construction -- the city's dominant construction company, whose owner is friends with both Tuffey and Jerry Jennings. [TU]

The state Senate is back in session today and is expected to take up ethics reform. Though it originally was scheduled to be on the slate, it now appears that a residential parking permit law for Albany will not come up. [CapNews9] [PolitickerNY] [TU]

(there's more)

Shooting death in Albany, Bruno says he feels vindicated, sheriff says DWI sweep netted mother with kids, forklift used for robbery

Albany Police say a man was found shot and killed at an apartment complex on North Pearl Street late last night (map). There have now been three shooting deaths in Albany during the last 11 days. [TU] [WNYT]

Prompted by the recent spike in violent crime, three Albany Common Council members -- including mayoral candidate Corey Ellis -- called on the city yesterday to implement the recommendations of the Gun Violence Task Force, which issued its final report in January. Jerry Jennings said yesterday that he was tired of people "politicizing the tragedies we are having in the city." [TU] [CapNews9]

While Andrew Cuomo's investigation of the State Police (pdf) did not find evidence of special political unit, the AG's office says it found "several troubling situations in which, at the highest levels of the State Police, political considerations played an improper and determinative role." In a letter, David Paterson said he was concerned about "troubling politicization of certain actions and decisions that occurred at highest levels of the State Police." This investigation grew out of the "Troopergate" scandal -- in which Joe Bruno accused the Spitzer Administration of using state police to spy on him. Bruno said yesterday that the report makes him feel "totally vindicated." [NYS AG] [TU] [NYT] [CapNews9]

The state Committee on Open Government has concluded that the Schenectady School District should have released the entire report produced by its Steven Raucci investigation. [Daily Gazette $]

(there's more)

Teen shot while riding bike, council president candidate accused of sexual harassment, attendance down slightly at Track, demolition begins on Wellington

Police say a teenager was shot in the leg as he rode his bike through Albany's West Hill neighborhood on Saturday (map). Police say they don't have a suspect. [TU] [Fox23]

Lenny Ricchiuti -- head of the Albany Police Athletic League and a candidate for Common Council president -- has been accused of sexual harassment by a former PAL employee. Ricchiuti is running against Carolyn McLaughlin for the Common Council presidency. [TU] [TU]

The Bethlehem police officer who's accused the town's police chief of using a racial slur has had his service weapons taken away -- the town cited the officer's "emotional state.". [TU]

Critics of Albany's charter schools say the schools score better on state tests because they have lower numbers of special education students. [TU]

Andrew Cuomo is expected to announce that his office has not found any evidence that a special unit of the state police had been assembled to gather information about politicians. The issue rose out of the "Troopergate" dispute between Joe Bruno and Eliot Spitzer. [NYT] [AP/Troy Record]

(there's more)

Shooting in Albany, Jennings and Ellis debate, rolling billboard targets police chief, snakeheads!

Jennings and Ellis

Jerry Jennings and Corey Ellis just before the start of last night's debate

Police say a 19-year-old man was shot and killed last night in Albany's Delaware Ave neighborhood, just a few blocks from the Spectrum (map). There weren't a lot of details -- the APD was canvassing the neighborhood for info. The police say they're not even sure the man was shot at the location he was found. The shooting pushes Albany's murder count to six this year. Update: Police now say the shooting appears to have been an accident. [TU] [CapNews9] [CBS6] [WNYT]

Jerry Jennings and Corey Ellis debated last night in front of an overflow crowd at the Albany Public Library's main branch. Jennings said his top priority is the city's children and economic development -- Ellis said transparency and public safety. The exchanges were mostly calm. One exception: Jennings got a little stirred up when Ellis said he had been ignoring the city's gang problem. There was only one mention, by Ellis, of retiring police chief James Tuffey. The candidates answered a wide range of questions that had been written on notecards by the audience before the debate -- a format that didn't allow follow-up questions. [CapNews9] [Fox23] [TU] [AOA was also there]

For a quick read through of the debate, here's the stream of live tweets from AOA and the TU. Also, CBS6 has posted video, helpfully broken down by issue.

At last night's Schenectady school board meeting, the board president briefly addressed the now infamous graduation kegger, saying it demonstrated "a lack of parental boundaries." James Casino, the board member shown taking a Jager shot from an ice luge in one photo, was not at the meeting. [TU] [Daily Gazette $]

(there's more)

Local post offices escape the chopping block

usps logo on mailboxWell, at least a few of them. Three of the local post offices slated for possible "consolidation" by the Postal Service are no longer on the list. The USPS says it still hasn't made any final decisions -- and it won't until after October 2.

Here are the three locations no longer on the chopping block...

(there's more)

Speculation about Tuffey's resignation, state Ed Department looking into kegger, Bethlehem cops go weeding, new row houses planned for Center Square

Speculation continues about the departure of Albany police chief James Tuffey. His retirement announcement -- by many accounts sudden -- came after a group of department commanders retained legal counsel and told city hall they would not deny a incident in which Tuffey is accused of using a racial slur. Mayor Jerry Jennings says he did not ask Tuffey to resign. The union that represents Albany police officers is saying that the resignation was forced with the help of the department's command staff -- and is accusing the city of using Tuffey's departure to stall contract negotiations with the union. [TU] [CapNews9] [WNYT] [Fox23] [Troy Record]

Jennings says there will be a "national search" for a candidate to replace Tuffey. Because of a charter change in 2007, the Common Council will have veto power over the mayor's choice for the position. Common Council president Shawn Morris says she wants Jennings to talk with the council about criteria for the candidate search. Citing Jennings' five other picks for chief, Morris said, "It's time to broaden the search." [CapNews9] [TU] [CBS6] [CBS6]

The New York State Education Department now says it will be looking into photos that popped up on Facebook of a Schenectady school board member and his wife -- a teacher -- at a kegger celebrating their son's high school graduation. Schenectady's schools superintendent says the district is "looking at [the situation] internally." [WTEN] [Upstream] [TU]

(there's more)

School board member party photos draw interest from police, DMV fees going up, Albany FreeNet expanding, cutbacks come to David Paterson's face

The Schenectady County DA says police will be looking into photos (originally posted on Facebook) that show a Schenectady school board member and his wife -- who's a teacher -- drinking from a Jagermeister luge and doing a keg stand at their son's high school graduation party. [TU] [WTEN] [Daily Gazette $]

DMV fees go up today -- the cost of renewing a driver's license is going up $14.50. Next year, car registrations will require a new license plate ($25) -- and keeping the same license number will cost an extra $20. Jim Tedisco called the higher fees a tax increase. Rensselaer County's clerk said the state legislature is treating the DMV like "a cash cow." [TU] [Saratogian] [WNYT] [CapNews9]

David Paterson and other state officials were at a middle school in Albany yesterday to raise awareness about prep for flu season. Officials say the recently emerged H1N1 flu is likely to flare up in schools. Local school districts and colleges say they're getting the word out about preventive measures to parents and students. [CapNews9] [Fox23] [TU]

A state comptroller's report indicates that county sales tax receipts in the Capital Region are down more than six percent this year. In Saratoga County, which the report indicates is down 12 percent, officials said the numbers seemed off the mark. [NYS Comptroller] [Saratogian]

(there's more)

Second murder in Albany this month, Summer Bird wins Travers, hospital employees required to get flu shots, party invitation causes kerfuffle

2nd Street murder

The scene outside 327 Second Street in Albany, where police say a man was shot and killed this past weekend during a party. (Photo by Paul Esmond)

Albany police say a Troy man was shot and killed in a basement apartment in West Hill early Sunday morning (map). There apparently had been a party at the house. Police say they don't have suspects or a motive, yet. It was the fifth murder in Albany this year. [TU] [Troy Record] [Fox23 [WNYT]

Police have arrested another suspect in this month's Western Ave murder in Albany. This second suspect, who's been charged with second degree murder, just turned 16. [WNYT] [TU]

Summer Bird won the Travers by 3.5 lengths on Saturday. The horse also won the Belmont and is the son of Marylou Whitney's Birdstone, who also won the Belmont and Travers in 2004. Rain kept attendance to 34,221 -- the smallest crowd in 30 years. Among those in attendance: David Paterson. [CapNews9] [Post-Star] [Saratogian] [CapNews9]

Backstretch workers at The Track still haven't seen most of the money a state investigation concluded is owed to them by horse trainers. [TU]

(there's more)

State AG's office investigating Espada, man pleads guilty to killing son, CDTA trimming routes, Mine That Bird out of Travers

Andrew Cuomo's office is investigating whether Pedro Espada was something less than forthcoming when filling out a form for a $3 million state grant for his Bronx health care org. [TU]

David Paterson signed a bill that makes it illegal in most cases to shackle a prison inmate during childbirth. [AP/CBS6]

Glenn Vosburgh, the Coeymans man accused of killing his son last spring, pleaded guilty to manslaughter yesterday in a deal that will send him to prison for 19 years. Vosburgh said he was intoxicated when he shot his son in the back. [TU] [Fox23] [CapNews9]

Last night's Schenectady school board meeting included pointed criticism from the crowd as Linda Bellick, who lost in the last board election, was appointed to fill a recently vacated spot. Bellick's remarks during the meeting were stopped by the district's attorney after Bellick started talking about the not-publicly-released Steven Raucci report. [WNYT] [TU]

(there's more)

Health care forum raises blood pressure, arrest in Albany murder, plan proposed for Troy Proctors, Green Island Bridge up and down today

About 1,500 people showed up for Paul Tonko's health care bill public forum last night in Bethlehem. Both supporters and opponents of the Obama Administration's health care reform plan were there -- and it led to some heated exchanges. When one speaker asked Tonko about where Congress gets the authority to pass health care reforms, Tonko pulled out a pocket constitution and started reading from Article I. [TU] [CapNews9] [Lydia Kulbida] [WNYT]

Schenectady police say a man was shot three times on Park Place last night -- just a few blocks from Union College (map). The shooting appeared to be the result of some sort of argument. No arrests have been made. [Fox23] [CBS6] [WNYT]

Albany police have made an arrest in the Western Ave murder earlier this month. Police say the shooting was part of a robbery. The suspect told police he didn't pull the trigger, but he says he saw who did. [CapNews9] [TU]

The Court of Appeals, New York's highest court, will take up the dispute over Richard Ravtich's appointment as lieutenant governor next month. [CapNews9]

(there's more)

Shooting in uptown Albany, Paterson lashes out at media, concerns about pollution at Cohoes factory, GloFo tapping local firms

Albany police say man was shot outside his apartment on Manning Blvd in uptown Albany last night (map). The man reportedly was sitting in car when he took multiple shots in his upper body. A neighbor drove him to the hospital. The APD says it hasn't identified a motive. [TU] [Troy Record] [Fox23] [CapNews9]

The Albany cop car involved in last week's crash that killed a man in a civilian car on Madison Ave did not have an installed video camera. In fact, none of the APD's cars have cameras even though chief James Tuffey said more than a year ago that the squad's fleet would be getting them. [TU]

The median price for single family homes in the Capital Region was down 10 percent in July compared to the same month last year (median prices are down 5 percent for the year). The number of closed sales was about the same, though. That has real estate agents speculating that the market has reached its bottom. [GCAR] [TU]

David Paterson said on Friday that media has treated his administration unfairly because of his ethnicity. Later in the day Paterson said he hadn't accused the media of being racist, but rather said "certain media outlets have engaged in coverage that exploits racial stereotypes." In his original comments, Paterson the press would next go after Barack Obama for the same reason -- and apparently that assertion didn't go over well with the White House. [Daily Politics] [Daily Politics] [NY Post]

A Democratic state senator from Staten Island says David Paterson's impaired vision is making it hard for him to be an effective governor. [SI Advance]

(there's more)

Jennings and Ellis spar over vacant buildings, state Senate paying lease on empty offices, Joe Bruno still alive, socialite's tiny dogs on display

Jerry Jennings and mayoral candidate Corey Ellis went back and forth yesterday over vacant buildings and the city's plan to paint boarded up windows to look like real windows. At a press conference on Henry Johnson, Jennings said the painted boards will help deter crime. At his own presser nearby, Ellis said "There's not enough paint in this city to solve these problems." [TU] [WNYT] [CitizenAction YouTube via PolitickerNY]

A former state Senate employee has alleged that David Paterson was having an affair with a staffer while he was lieutenant governor. That prompted a lawyer for the alleged mistress to call the former staffer "a lying weasel." [NYT]

The state Senate is paying $1.5 million on a lease for empty office space near the Capitol. [TU]

The Schenectady Free Health Clinic is on the verge of closing after its state funding didn't get renewed. [TU]

Saratoga public safety commissioner -- and mayoral candidate -- Ron Kim says the Saratogian has been too lax in allowing what he calls racist comments to be posted on its web site. (Kim is part Korean and apparently some of the comments make references to him being like Kim Jong Il). The Saratogian says Kim didn't report the offensive comments to the paper. [TU] [Saratogian]

(there's more)

Dredging starts up again, Espada says no quid pro quo for son's job, rally for post office, horse prices up at Saratoga sale

The Hudson River PCB dredging project has started up again. Officials say they'll be working slowly in an attempt to prevent PCB levels from spiking. The PCB spikes have prompted some "told you so" from dredging opponents. [NYT] [TU] [CapNews9]

The Schenectady County legislature has voted to ban BPA from baby bottles and sippy cups. Albany County passed a similar ban earlier this week. [TU]

Pedro Espada said yesterday that the $120k/year state Senate job created for his son (Pedro G. Espada) is "not the result of a quid pro quo or a contingency to my ending the Senate stalemate." An unnamed state Senate Democrat called the younger Espada "lazy and not so smart." Big Pedro, who's know the Senate majority leader, apparently tried to hire his son directly, but ethics rules prohibit senators hiring family members. [PolitickerNY] [NY Post] [TU]

New York State will be giving people on welfare $200/child to help with back-to-school costs. A total of 800,000 kids will get grants. The cash comes from federal stimulus money snagged with the help of $35 million from George Soros. Dean Skelos called the plan "ripe for fraud and abuse." [CapNews9] [Fox23] [AP/Troy Record]

The number of new homes being constructed in the Capital Region is way down -- because of the economy, but maybe also because of changing buyer preferences. [TU]

(there's more)

Murder in Albany, Schenectady cops could get tasers, Hudson river dredging stopped again, Cohoes considers closing barn door

Albany police say a man was shot and killed in his apartment on Western Ave Sunday morning. They say they don't have a suspect, but it appears that shooter was someone the man knew. The location of this shooting, 158 Western Ave, is less than half-a-mile from where UAlbany student Richard Bailey was shot last year. [CBS6] [TU] [Google Maps]

Among the details from the state auditor's Albany ghost ticket report: a former Albany cop was put on the VIP list after he complained about getting tickets while working at his job at the state Education Department -- he then racked up 573 no-fine tickets. Jerry Jennings released a statement Friday that said his administration would be working with the Common Council to "quickly adopt a corrective action plan" for the city's parking ticket system. Said mayoral candidate Corey Ellis in statement released Friday: ""This report clearly shows that Mayor Jennings' administration is incapable of properly managing the issuance and collection of parking fines, a system that should be simple and straightforward." [AOA] [TU] [CapNews9] [Ellis press release not online]

Schenectady police chief Mark Chaires says he pushing for the department's officers to get tasers. The family of the man shot and killed by the SPD last week questioned why a non-lethal measure wasn't used in that situation. [TU] [CapNews9]

The state announced it will be building a new $40 million food safety lab at the Harriman State Office Campus. Where that leaves the plan to turn the campus over to private development is apparently anyone's guess. [Troy Record] [TU]

(there's more)

Authorities say alleged kidnapper knew gang members, Paterson hires friend despite hiring freeze, USPS says closure list is A STUDY, Unhappy Meals distributed

Authorities say the man accused of kidnapping a woman in downtown Saratoga Springs recently did know the two alleged Salvadoran gang members arrested this week. The Saratoga DA is asking people to take photos of unusual graffiti and send them to police so the tags can be investigated for connections to gangs. [Saratogian] [Saratogian]

Colonie's town council has approved a measure that would limit the number of sex offenders who can reside in a single hotel or motel. Leaders were concerned that a strip of motels along Central Ave had become a hot spot for sex offenders -- one motel reportedly has 25 sex offenders staying at it. [CapNews9] [CBS6]

David Paterson signed an executive order that sets a state goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 80 percent from 1990 levels. New York's current level is 290 million tons -- 23 million tons more than in 1990. [TU] [AP/Saratogian]

Despite a state freeze on hiring, David Paterson added a longtime friend -- and fellow club partier -- to a $88k job in a state office in DC. The woman was reportedly "imposed" on the office. [NYDN] [NYP]

(there's more)

GE officially announces new plant in Schenectady, Ellis calls for review of ambulance service, feds say Central American gang members picked up, toward nanobioscience

GE has officially announced that it will be building a new battery plant at the GE Energy campus off Erie Blvd in Schenectady. The plant is expected to cost $100 million and create 350 jobs. GE is getting a package of grants and incentives worth $20 million from New York State and Schenectady Metroplex. The plant will make batteries based on technology developed at the company's research center in Niskayuna. [Daily Gazette $] [CapNews9] [TU] [Fox23]

Albany police detective George McNally pleaded guilty yesterday to drunk driving and reckless driving. McNally careened through Albany and Delmar after leaving a bar on New Scotland Ave this past January. As part of the plea deal, he'll pay a fine, do community service, and his license will be revoked -- though he'll be able to drive for work. [TU] [CapNews9]

Albany mayoral candidate Corey Ellis has called for a review of ambulance service in the city. Ellis says the review is necessary because of Mohawk Ambulance's delay in arriving at the scene of the fatal crash involving a kid on a bike and a car. Jerry Jennings accused Ellis of politicizing the tragedy. [Ellis press release not online] [TU]

The state Senate will be back in session today for what's expected to be a short, "very vanilla" session. [TU]

(there's more)

Friend says man killed by police suffered from mental illness, unease over state worker buyouts, judge pleads guilty to DWAI, big year for apples

A family friend says the man shot and killed by Schenectady police this past weekend suffered from mental illness. The man's brother says the SPD should have used non-lethal force. [Daily Gazette $] [CapNews9]

Workers at GE Energy in Schenectady approved a new contract with the company that includes no layoffs for two years -- and clears the way for a new battery factory that could add 350 jobs. In return, the union is forgoing cost of living raises for the next two years. [WNYT] [CapNews9] [TU]

The Hudson River dredging project has started up again after tests indicated that PCB levels in the water had dropped below the set limit. The EPA is blaming fast-moving currents for the spike. Officials from some downstream communities say the EPA was slow to notify them of the test results. [Troy Record] [TU] [Post-Star]

New York State has finally paid the property taxes it owed on The Track -- almost $478k. The payment was six months late. Apparently the state is exempt from having to pay late fees. The state started paying property taxes on The Track after it took ownership of the property from NYRA. [Daily Gazette $] [Saratogian] [TU] [Post-Star]

Lack of information about the $20k retirement buyout is upsetting state workers. [TU]

(there's more)

Man shot to death by Schenectady police, no more Bruno bacon, conflict over dredging dump site, artist accused of stealing his own paintings

Schenectady police say an officer shot and killed a man wielding a butcher knife Saturday afternoon. Schenectady's public safety commissioner says the man moved quickly toward the officer -- and there's "nothing that indicates" the officer did not comply with department's laws and regulations. The Schenectady County DA's office says it will investigate. The officer who fired on the man had been shot in the line of duty ten years ago. Saturday's shooting was the first by an officer in Schenectady since 2002. [Daily Gazette] [CapNews9] [CBS6] [TU] [Daily Gazette] [TU]

A state panel has concluded that the City of Albany's refusal to release "fixed" parking tickets could be a violation of state law. [TU]

With Joe Bruno no longer sending this bacon this way, the Capital Region's haul of state Senate pork is down 76 percent. [TU]

Andrew Cuomo has apparently "begun to embrace the possibility of a run for governor." [NYT]

It sounds like Carolyn Maloney is now leaning against challenging Kirsten Gillibrand in the Senate Democratic primary. [Politico]

(there's more)

Opening day at The Track, child dies after being hit by police vehicle, bill would allow supermarket wine sales, Schenectady could turn down money for cops, tanker spills milk on I-90

It's opening day at The Track. Racing starts at 1 pm.

The state Department of Labor says it will be continuing to scrutinize whether trainers are paying overtime and minimum wage to backstretch workers. An investigation the agency conducted last year found that adequate records were not being kept and many workers were not getting full compensation. [Fox23] [Saratogian] [Post-Star]

Many businesses in Saratoga are pulling for a strong track season -- the city's finance commissioner said the season is "like our Christmas." Hotels in Saratoga are apparently almost completely booked up for this weekend. [Daily Gazette] [TU]

A child died in Troy yesterday after being hit by unmarked police vehicle. Police say the vehicle was not responding to an emergency. There are reports the child might have entered the street between two parked cars. The city says it's conducting an investigation. [Troy Record] [Fox23] [CapNews9] [TU]

A bill has been proposed in Albany County would require chain restaurants to post calories counts on menus. One of the supporters of the bill is Panera -- the chain says its local restaurants already have plans to post calorie counts. [Albany County] [TU] [Fox23]

(there's more)

Arrest in Saratoga kidnapping case, suit alleges Raucci cut off heat to classroom, assemblyman says four day week a "no-brainer," Union disputes party school tag

Saratoga Springs police say they have arrested the man whom they allege is responsible for the kidnapping and attempted rape of a woman last Thursday night (map). The man -- who's an illegal immigrant -- has been charged with felony kidnapping and felony robbery (he's accused of taking off with $500). Police continued to praise the woman for her moxie in being able to escape from the attack. Authorities say they're investigating whether the man was involved with another similar crime in Lake George. [Saratogian] [Daily Gazette] [CapNews9] [Post-Star] [TU]

Yet another lawsuit filed over the alleged conduct of Steven Raucci accuses the former Schenectady school district employee of cutting off the heat to a teacher's classroom after her husband -- who worked for Raucci -- indicated he might challenge Raucci for a union leadership position. [Daily Gazette]

David Paterson has requested that the USDA declare 17 counties, including the Capital Region, agricultural disaster areas. The damp, cloudy summer has been miserable for farmers. [CBS6] [Daily Gazette]

New York State's new education commissioner is David Steiner, who was a dean at Hunter College in NYC. He said yesterday that he will focus on improving teacher performance. [NYT] [TU]

(there's more)

Report: ambulance delay a result of "human error," state AG's office takes up ESP man cave case, GE reportedly building new plant in Schenectady, it's huuuuuge

The city report on the delayed ambulance response to the scene of a fatal crash between a car and a child on a bike in Albany in May concludes that "a single human error" was responsible for the delay. The dispatch error held up the city from calling another service, said the chair of the report task force. The report also concluded that a faster response would not have saved the child. [TU] [Fox23] [CapNews9]

Police are looking for a man who allegedly kidnapped a woman in Saratoga Springs Thursday night and attempted to sexually assault her. The woman, who had been forced at gunpoint to strip, escaped. Police credited her with being "brave and resourceful." The SSPD says it will release a statement about the case today. [TU] [Saratogian] [Daily Gazette] [Saratogian]

The ESP Man Cave case has been turned over to the state attorney general's office -- and felony charges are possible. [TU]

It seems that David Paterson's gubernatorial campaign is something less than fiscally disciplined, spending lavishly on consultants, hotels and -- in one case -- joke writers. That largesse apparently did not extend to reimbursing the state for airfare, though. [NYT] [TU]

(there's more)

Ravitch appointment temporarily unblocked, Schenectady woman set on fire, New York State owes back taxes on The Track, man saved by Pork Chop

A state appellate judge has temporarily blocked the injunction that blocked Richard Ravitch from acting as lieutenant governor. Republicans get a chance on Monday to argue that Ravitch should be re-blocked. The fight over the constitutionality of Ravitch's appointment could drag on for months -- and will probably end up in the Court of Appeals, New York's highest court. [AP/CapNews9] [NYT] [NYDN]

Schenectady police say a woman was set on fire last night during what appears to have been an argument. Police say the woman was in so much pain that she wasn't able to give them any details about the attack. [Daily Gazette] [TU] [CBS6]

Said Ron Kim during his announcement yesterday that he's running for mayor of Saratoga Springs: "There is nothing wrong with this city that can't be fixed." Kim says his administration would focus on open government, fixing the city budget and a new public safety building. Kim, a Democrat, will face Republican incumbent Scott Johnson. The two candidates were already doing some trash talking yesterday. [Saratogian] [TU] [CapNews9]

The three Democrats running for mayor of Albany will be at a candidate forum tonight at St. Sophia's. The forum will focus on senior citizens issues and will include a Q&A session. [TU] [CapNews9]

(there's more)

Ravitch appointment blocked, motivational event jams traffic, Schenectady SD paid $13k for Raucci report, Troy dog park drama continues

A state Supreme Court justice in Nassau County has issued an injunction stopping Richard Ravitch's appointment as lieutenant governor. The justice also ruled that Malcolm Smith -- who's (again) the state Senate president -- would take over the role of governor if something happened to David Paterson. A spokesman for Paterson says the administration will appeal in the ruling. Despite the injunction, Ravitch says he'll be showing up for work today. [NYT][NYDN] [Daily Politics] [Fox23]

The "Get Motivated" event at the TU Center yesterday contributed to a big traffic jam in downtown Albany yesterday morning -- I-90 and I-787 had mile-long lines of standing cars. The event featured motivational speakers -- including Colin Powell and Rudy Giuliani -- pitching optimism, faith, skepticism of government and motivational products. Powell's speech was apparently the highlight of the day. (Question for another day: if having this gathering during a weekday snarled traffic so badly, what will happen if/when there's a convention center downtown?) [Fox23] [TU] [TU] [Daily Gazette] [Troy Record]

Albany police say two banks -- one on New Scotland and another on Delaware -- were held up yesterday within a span of 15 minutes. And they say it looks the same person was involved in both. The guy apparently got frustrated during the first robbery attempt -- so he left without money and headed for the second bank. [Troy Record] [TU] [CapNews9]

The chairman of the Troy City Council's public safety committee says RPI needs to "bring more to the table" in assistance for fire department coverage of the campus. The union that reps Troy firefighters has been lobbying for RPI to pay a "public safety fee" to help fund firefighter staffing near the campus -- and it appears the union is going to keep pressing the issue. [TU] [Troy Record]

(there's more)

Attorney calls ESP man cave allegations overblown, SPAC ticket surchage floated, Tedisco proposes "Madoff Bill," DEC building urinals criticized for backsplash

An attorney for one of the men accused of setting up a "man cave" in the ESP for smoking pot instead described the space as "a break room" and called the allegations "overblown." One of the accused men has a criminal record -- and there are some questions about whether the state knew that before hiring him. [TU] [CBS6]

The Albany Common Council has passed a resolution that calls on public agencies to not ask a person about his/her immigration status if that person is "not posing a threat." The resolution is non-binding. [TU] [CBS6] [Fox23]

Saratoga Springs' finance commissioner has floated the idea of tacking on a $2 surcharge to rock and pop concert tickets at SPAC. The fee could bring in as much as $500k. SPAC's executive director said the venue is "firmly opposed" to the proposed fee and called it "an onerous tax." [Daily Gazette] [TU] [Saratogian]

The Troy Fire Department says mayor Harry Tutunjian has asked it to tour the RPI campus -- EMPAC in particular -- to get a better sense of the layout of campus buildings. The TFD has been lobbying for RPI to pay a public safety fee to fund additional fire coverage of the campus. [TU]

(there's more)

Raucci report won't be released, cool summer may be setting up cold winter, Tedisco hints at run for different office, alleged cold cut heist leads to pepper spraying

The Schenectady school district's internal investigation into Steven Raucci -- the former district employee who's been accused arson and intimidation -- will not be made public. The district says its lawyer "strongly advised" it to not release the report. [Daily Gazette] [TU]

The package of state incentives for the Luther Forest chip fab project is actually closer to $1.37 billion -- and could be more if GlobalFoundries expands at the site. [TU]

A guy who was forcibly sedated at the direction of Albany County law enforcement so they could search his body for drugs in 2006 has settled his lawsuit for $125k. The search included a camera being put up his rectum. [TU] [AP/CBS6]

There's some historical data that indicates we could be in for a cold, snowy winter. [TU]

The Capital Region's tick population -- and the incidence of Lyme disease -- appear to be on the rise. [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

State Senate portions pork in the middle of the night, more investment at Albany Nanotech, questions about near-drowning in Troy, common councilman owes back taxes

The state Senate was in session until 3 am this morning. It ended up passing a package of rules reforms for the chamber, including new guidelines for the distribution of pork and staff funding. The session was anything but smooth -- and the long delay prompted a few senators to leave. [Daily Politics] [TU] [Daily Politics]

Hiram Monserrate -- one of the state senators in the middle of the recent mess -- has been restored to his position as chair of Consumer Protection Committee and given his $12,500 stipend. Monserrate's chairmanship was taken away earlier this year after he was charged with slashing his girlfriend. [TU]

David Paterson's 2010 gubernatorial campaign racked up a $1000 bill for a campaign meeting at a bar in Jersey City. [NYT]

New York State announced that it will be spending $50 million on a "packaging" facility for computer chips at Albany Nanotech -- IBM is also part of the project and it will be putting up $75 million. Also part of the announcement: a new facility at SUNY IT (near Utica) that will work with Albany Nanotech. [Biz Review] [TU]

(there's more)

Game on in state Senate, documents indicate district officials may have known about Raucci, police say man used child as shield, popular Phish camp closed

The state Senate is back in session today, though it seems no one really knows what's going to happen. The session could take up NYC-related legislation -- or it could focus on reforming pork distribution. One possible complication: Democrats will only have a 31-30 majority because one of their members is on his honeymoon. [AP/Troy Record] [TU] [NYP]

David Paterson apparently wasn't a fan of the Democratic leadership signing Happy Birthday at their post-game press conference last week. Maybe he's just annoyed that he had to take time out from fund raising because of the Senate mess. [Daily Politics] [NYT]

Longtime Capital Region car dealer Ken Gowey says he's running for governor. His platform includes big tax cuts and belief that "man-made global warming" is a "boondoggle." [TU]

Documents filed as part of a lawsuit against the Schenectady School District indicate that district officials may have known about Steven Raucci's alleged acts of harassment as early as 2005. The documents include handwritten notes from the district's HR director that originally appeared as part of a workers compensation claim against the district. That claim alleged that an employee who worked under Raucci suffered emotional harm because of harassment. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

A state Supreme Court judge has struck down Albany County's sex offender residency law because it's superceded by state law. A similar law in Rensselaer County was tossed recently for the same reason. [TU]

(there's more)

Not much has changed in state Senate, Gillibrand cut off at Sotomayor hearing, judge admonished for not getting work done, pair accused of using kid to aid burglaries

Now that the state Senate leadership mess has been resolved, the chamber can move on to the really important stuff: staffing budgets. Oh, and Pedro Espada says was made majority leader because senators "trust" that "I can lead that house." [AP/Troy Record] [CapNews9]

Already bolstered by the state Senate's "extraordinary" sessions, downtown Albany restaurants are pulling for a special session. [CapNews9] [TU]

Chuck Schumer (video) and Kirsten Gillibrand (video) introduced Sonia Sotomayor at her Supreme Court nomination hearing yesterday. KG went on so long that she had to be cut off by Judiciary Committee chairman Patrick Leahy (the first gavel comes at 6:25 in her video). Gillibrand does have a reputation for being loquacious. [SchumerTube] [GillibrandTube] [TU] [NYT]

Joe Bruno has already spent more than $450k on lawyers this year as part of his defense against federal corruption charges. [Daily Politics]

CSEA members showed up at last night's Albany County Legislature meeting to protest the planned five-day furloughs of county workers. The union says workers found out about the furlough via the media. Albany County exec Mike Breslin says the county is facing a $20 million budget gap. [Fox23] [CBS6]

(there's more)

Everyone seems upset in Senate mess aftermath, Albany says sewer failure wasn't its fault, bar owners brought SLA with check of a box, rain leads to exploding cherries

David Paterson says the caucus switching that's been going on in the state Senate is "so blatantly quid pro quo that it borders on the boundaries of illegality." Jim Tedisco says that the recent mess has prompted him to work on introducing legislation in the Assembly that would allow elected officials to be recalled -- he singled out Pedro Espada for "selling his office." Roy McDonald says the legislature is "evolving into a branch of the New York City Council." And Neil Breslin says the recent events have him "less excited about being a senator." [AP/TU] [TU] [Fox23] [Saratogian] [AP/Troy Record]

Friday's special session of the state Senate was canceled and the body is next scheduled to meet on Wednesday. [PolitickerNY]

One thing the Senate ovethrow/unthrow didn't stop: big pay raises for a bunch of Senate staffers. [TU]

A hearing on the constitutionality of David Paterson's appointment of Richard Ravitch to the post of lieutenant governor has been scheduled for Wednesday. Even with the state Senate mess resolved, both Paterson and Ravitch say there's still a need for a lt governor. [AP/TU] [PolitickerNY]

Lawyers for Joe Bruno are arguing that his trial for "theft of honest services" should be delayed until the Supreme Court of the United State rules on a pair of similar cases. [TU]

They City of Albany has denied almost $300k in claims related to the flooding last August. The city says the deluge "exceeded all levels for which municipal storm sewers or municipal combined sewers are designed." [TU]

(there's more)

No progress in state Senate, mid-year budget change could be necessary, alleged pharmacy robber nabbed, stimulating the sign economy, hunting for what's left of Henry Hudson

The state Senate had two more in-and-out sessions this past weekend. Negotiations are apparently going on behind the scenes. The big sticking point remains leadership of the chamber -- specifically Pedro Espada's role as president pro tem. David Paterson is reportedly telling Democrats they may just have to get over it. [Newsday] [Daily Politics] [Buffalo News] [NYDN]

State comptroller Tom DiNapoli says it's looking like the state will be short on money later this year -- and a mid-year budget adjustment will probably be necessary. Of course, the would be virtually impossible with the state Senate locked in its current mess. [NYDN]

A state audit of the Schenectady Metroplex Authority reports that the org isn't tracking whether its investment projects are meeting job creation targets and that it's leaving parking money on the table. The authority disputed many of the findings -- and said it's purposefully not charging for parking. [Daily Gazette] [TU]

Is it a coincidence that the owner of the construction company with a virtual lock on big projects in the City of Albany is BFF with the mayor and police chief? [TU]

(there's more)

State comptroller says he'll stop senators' pay, officials say fatal Schenectady fire was arson, Troy's Cannon Building could be closed, WTEN going up for auction

State comptroller Tom DiNapoli says he will withhold state senators' pay because of the Senate standoff. There's some question as to whether DiNapoli can legally do that -- and a spokesman for Senate Democrats has already said they'll sue if the comptroller actually goes through with it. [NYT] [NYDN] [TU]

There didn't appear to be an significant progress toward a resolution of the state Senate mess yesterday, though the two sides did talk. David Paterson asked the public for ideas about how to fix the situation. [Daily Politics] [Capitol Tonight]

One group that's made OK in all this: lawyers. [Capitol Tonight]

With another "extraordinary" session planned for tomorrow, senators were making Fourth of July plans. Among them: conjugal visits, fireworks at the ESP, laundry and reading "computer mail." [NYDN] [NYT]

Schenectady County DA Robert Carney says the fire that killed a 10-year-old girl in Schenectady last month was intentionally set by woman who was upset with the girl's mother. The woman has been charged with murder and arson. Carney says he doesn't think the woman intended to kill the child. The girl's mother was not home at the time of the fire -- she's been charged with endangering the welfare of a child. Three firefighters were injured while trying to save the girl. [TU] [Daily Gazette] [Fox23] [CBS6]

(there's more)

That was a lot of rain, state Senate will meet on 4th, RPI disputes fire department accusations, Rudy Giuliani wants to motivate you, ALB says show up earlier

Yesterday's severe thunderstorms dropped more than three inches of rain in some places (the official NWS tally of 2.76 inches was a local record for July 1). Latham and Cohoes seemed to get the worst of it. There were reports of flooding all over the area. [TU] [NWS] [Fox23] [Twitter]

The state Senate held another of its "extraordinary" in-and-out sessions yesterday. The big issue of the day seemed to be the question of whether the Assembly would accept the bills "passed" by the Senate in Tuesday's V8-fueled session. It looks like the senators will be spending the Fourth of July at the Capitol -- David Paterson has ordered them into session every day through Monday. [TU] [Daily Politics]

Both Senate factions are expected to turn in per diem requests for the last two weeks today -- though whether they'll be paid is apparently up in the air. [NYDN]

Guilderland's supervisor says the town will be pulling its garbage business from the Albany landfill because of concerns about the facility's expansion into the Pine Bush. [TU]

RPI says that its public safety office called the Troy Fire Department just 32 seconds after the first report of a fire at one its chem labs this week -- not 12 minutes as the department has alleged. The TFD says RPI's delay created a more dangerous situation for firefighters. [Troy Record]

(there's more)

State Senate still stuck, Novello to do community service at Albany clinic, political spat over playground, Miss New York crowned, angry penguin in Waterford

The state Senate is still stuck. The two caucuses repeated their parallel in-and-out sessions over the weekend. David Paterson, who's suing the Senate over the quickie sessions, met with the Democratic caucus over the weekend -- though there aren't any details about whether they decided to hug it out or to continue hating each other. Yet another "extraordinary" session is planned for today. The two sides appear no closer to working out a power-sharing deal. [CapNews9] [Daily Politics] [AP/TU]

One of the background issues to the Senate mess is the 2010 redistricting. Demographers say population shifts are pointing toward a sizable Democratic majority -- though that depends on how districts are drawn. [NYT]

The state comptroller's office has cancelled $3 million in state funding for Pedro Espada's Bronx health care company. The comptroller says Espada, the disputed Senate pro tem, neglected to report that his org owed back taxes. [TU]

Even though New York State pays some of the lowest unemployment benefits in the nation, the state's unemployment insurance fund will be $2 billion short by the end of the year. [TU]

Albany County will be furloughing employees one day per month over the next six months. County exec Mike Breslin says the plan will save $1.4 million (the county faces a $20.5 million budget gap). Breslin says he'll be taking part in the furlough. [TU] [Troy Record]

(there's more)

State senators agree to hate on David Paterson, landfill expansion gets official OK from DEC, Troy dog park becomes political squabble, Dino looking for big tax breaks, rabid fox alert, gastropub opening in Saratoga

The state Senate's two caucuses held separate, brief -- and pointless -- sessions yesterday. The two sides apparently are close to working out some sort of deal to share power -- and asked for more time to negotiate. David Paterson essentially told them to stuff it and called another "extraordinary" session for today. He also directed the state treasurer to withhold senators' per diems. [Daily Politics] [NYT] [PolitickerNY]

One thing senators of both sides can apparently agree on: they're annoyed with David Paterson. Brooklyn Dem Kevin Park even called Paterson a "coke snorting, staff-banging governor" (he later retracted his comment -- at least he didn't hit the governor). Paterson said it's not him versus the legislature, but rather "governance versus chaos." [Newsday] [PolitickerNY] [NYDN] [TU]

It looks like the Senate chaos has put the same-sex marriage bill on hold indefinitely. [AP/Daily Gazette]

Former state health commissioner Antonia Novello has pleaded guilty in the case that alleged she used her state employees as personal assistants. She's getting off with no jail time, but will have to do community service, pay $22,500 in restitution and pay a small fine. [TU] [AP/Daily Gazette]

A spokesman for Rick Lazio says the former Long Island congressman and US Senate candidate "fully intends" to run for Governor of New York. Lazio has called for New York to replace the Assembly and Senate with a unicameral legislature. [AP/TU] [Daily Politics]

A draft of the Albany Common Council's ghost ticket investigation report concludes that the "intent of the system itself was not bad ... it was the impropriety in how the benefit was granted that is a cause for concern." One version of the draft report also apparently includes sharp criticism of city treasurer Betty Barnette's office. [TU]

(there's more)

Marika Charles factory sale

marika charles factory

From a previous factory sale

Marika Charles -- the fashion knitwear label based in Schenectady (really) -- is having a factory sale this weekend. Apparently there will be some deep discounts.

The label's pieces are normally sold in fashion boutiques such as Fred Segel. Hipster fashion icon Sienna Miller has even been spotted wearing one of their cardigans.

Marika Charles, the company, is an interesting story. The company is a brother and sister team -- he's a textiles expert and she's a designer. They've developed a patented process for quickly dying fabrics with patterns created in Illustrator or Photoshop.

The factory sale is this Friday 10-6, Saturday 10-5 and Sunday 11-4.

photo: Marika Charles

Paterson threatens state Senate, landfill expansion needs another permit, Troy dog park controversy, another pizza person mugged, gourmet market coming to Latham

The state Senate was in session for all of five minutes yesterday -- and the Republicans weren't even there. [Daily Politics]

David Paterson has called another "extraordinary" session for today. If senators don't show, he says he'll move to withhold their pay. He's also threatening to send the State Police after missing senators. A Brooklyn senator responded to Paterson's threats by calling him a "coward" who "will not be returning as governor." Leaders of both caucuses say their memberships will be at the Capitol today. [TU] [Daily Politics] [NYT] [Buffalo News]

A business run by Pedro Espada, one of the senators who set this whole circus in motion, owes almost $350k in back taxes. In 2007, Espada made almost $460k at the org, which gets funding from the state. [TU]

Even if the DEC approves the Albany landfill expansion, the project will still have to get the OK from the Army Corps of Engineers (though it won't stop the landfill from being piled higher). [TU]

(there's more)

Special state Senate session a disaster, landfill expansion could be approved soon, home prices holding steady, new music venue for Saratoga

Yesterday's special state Senate session was a mess. Among the absurdities: Democrats entered the chamber early in some sort of attempt to call "first!"; each side held its own concurrent session (with their own gavels) and tried to call the other out of order; no one knows if any of the voted-on bills were legally passed. [TU] [Daily Politics] [CapCon] [NYDN] [NYT]

David Paterson has called the Senate back for another session today -- with the same-sex marriage bill on the agenda. The inclusion of that bill could prompt Democrat Ruben Diaz Sr. to switch allegiance to the Republicans, giving them a majority. [Daily Politics]

Jerry Jennings' chief aide says the city's application to expand the Rapp Road landfill could be approved by the DEC as early as this week. At its current size, the landfill is projected to be full later this year -- six years ahead of schedule. Common Councilman -- and mayoral candidate -- Corey Ellis called for "a comprehensive audit of the Rapp Road landfill by a truly independent body" yesterday. [TU] [Ellis press release]

The median price for homes in the Capital Region more or less held steady last month compared to the same period last year -- though the number of transactions was down. Median prices were up in Schenectady County, flat in Albany County and down in Rensselaer and Saratoga counties. Homes priced under $200k are apparently selling well. [Daily Gazette] [GCAR/Post-Star] [TU]

(there's more)

Paterson calls special Senate session, twins die in accident, lottery winner allegedly sold crack, man accused of syruping gas tanks

David Paterson is calling the state Senate into special session this afternoon. Whether anything of actual substance will happen is uncertain, though -- in large part because it's not clear who will be running the chamber. Paterson can set the agenda -- and he's putting up 90 largely uncontroversial bills for consideration (he can't make the senators vote, though). When/if the bills are voted on, Paterson says he'll keep the Senate in session for bills related to "reform, fiscal discipline and also civil rights." One of those bills is probably the same-sex marriage bill, though Paterson didn't say that exactly -- probably because Democrat, and outspoken same-sex marriage opponent, Ruben Diaz has been threatening to switch parties if the bill is brought up. [TU] [NYDN] [Buffalo News] [Daily Politics] [PolitickerNY]

While the Senate drama lurched forward yesterday, the Assembly finished its session. [AP]

Twin teenage brothers died Sunday in Rensselaer County after the ATVs they were driving collided head-on. A teen girl was also seriously injured. The teens were not wearing helmets (the TU story says state law requires helmets, the Gazette story says it does not helmets are required). [TU] [Troy Record] [Daily Gazette]

Police say a Schenectady man stabbed his adult step daughter and her friend after the man got into an argument with his wife at a Father's Day party on Sunday. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

Paterson says he will force Senate into session, judge snagged in DWI sweep, bristling at being New York's pay toilet, vinyl records store opens in Schenectady

David Paterson says he will call the state Senate into special session tomorrow if the body doesn't get to work today. Said Paterson yesterday of all the drama: "Over the last couple of weeks, the senators' conduct has been laughable." Paterson says Chief Judge Jonathan Lippman would preside over the special session -- a provision that some say could be unconstitutional or create a conflict of interest. The session would focus on "emergency" issues such as the sale tax extension for some counties. Not on that list: same-sex marriage, though Paterson says he intends for the Senate to vote on the bill before the summer break. [TU] [NYDN] [PolitickerNY] [Daily Politics] [NYT]

Two things that might prompt Senators to start moving: they can't hook up their cronies with patronage jobs until the situation's resolved; and all their pork is currently locked in the barrel. [TU] [TU]

A man was stabbed to death in Schenectady Saturday morning. Police say they haven't identified a motive. [TU] [Fox23]

Police say an Albany County family court judge was snagged as part of the county-wide drunk driving sweep last Thursday. Green Island police say the judge tried to evade a checkpoint at the Troy-Green Island Bridge and led police on a short chase. [TU] [Troy Record]

The Albany Police Department is reportedly trying to fire two members of the force -- the detective accused of driving drunk through Albany into Bethlehem in February; and the sergeant who's been accused of trying to cover for the detective. [TU]

(there's more)

Senate is still stuck, big drug bust in Wilton, Alive at Five DWI crackdown planned, man accused of impersonating a cop, another local moose sighting

The state Senate is still borked. Local elected leaders are getting nervous because the Senate hasn't passed bills that would extend special sales taxes (this group includes Rensselaer and Columbia counties). Also held up: the new pension tier that was part of David Paterson's deal with the state worker unions. And the lid on the pork barrel is also shut. [TU] [CapNews9] [Buffalo News]

Republicans and Democrats are apparently trading ideas for power-sharing agreements. They're also starting to throw mud at each other. A sample exchange: Pork-throwing adulterer! Liar! [PolitickerNY] [NYP]

Pedro Espada, the lone Democrat in the Republican "coalition," has been reiterating his claim that his position as Senate pro tem gives him two votes -- not just in the event of a tie, but also to establish a quorum. An expert from the the Rockefeller Institute said Espada's claim "just might be correct." But the case law would seem to indicate otherwise. If Espada tries to act in this manner, the Democrats will almost certainly sue. [Daily Politics] [AP/Troy Record] [TU] [NYT]

The revised Schenectady schools budget did pass after all. A re-check of the numbers found a mistake that had resulted in almost 50 fewer "yes" votes. Had the budget not passed, the school district was going to impose an almost 16 percent tax increase as part of a contingency budget. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

State Senate frozen with no end in sight, local orgs lack pandemic plans, abandoned high-end homes in Saratoga, DEC hoping for hot turtle action

The state Senate is basically frozen right now. Yesterday a judge dismissed the Democrats' suit seeking to void last week's takeover by the Republicans + Pedro Espada. The Republicans claimed victory and tried to go into session -- but with only 31 senators present, they couldn't form a quorum. [NYT] [Daily Politics]

David Paterson again called on the Senate to work out some sort of power sharing deal, perhaps bringing someone such as former chief judge Judith Kaye to preside over the chamber. He also said the line of succession to the governorship is in dispute. [TU]

If the state Senate ever does back into session, Espada is arguing that he should have two votes -- his regular vote plus one as acting lieutenant governor. Apparently there's no precedent for that, though. [NYP]

By the way: the Assembly has been working while all this has been going on. [Daily Politics]

(there's more)

State Senate paralyzed by drama, plane plucked from Mohawk, Albany sewers maxed out, moose on the loose

As had been rumored, Hiram Monserrate switched back to the Democratic caucus yesterday and now the state Senate is split 31-31. Result: no one knows what the hell is going on. The two parties discussed a power-sharing arrangement, but couldn't come up with a deal. They're now looking to the courts to settle things> -- and it sounds like the judiciary would really rather not do that. [NYT] [NYDN] [NYT]

The situation puts the state in a "constitutional crisis" as there's no clear way for the Senate to function. Also muddled: the line of succession to the governorship. [Buffalo News]

The Republicans + Democrat Pedro Espada showed up in the Senate chamber yesterday, but couldn't do anything official because they were one short of a quorum. Democrats are now threatening to sue Espada because, they say, he violated a court-issued injunction against acting as Senate pro tem. [Daily Politics] [CapNews9]

John Sampson, the new leader of the Senate Democrats, is being credited with bringing Monserrate back into the caucus. [TU]

A crew pulled the small private plane that crashed into the Mohawk near Glenville out of the river yesterday. The victims were also identified -- one was a former Bollywood actor turned real estate developer. Officials aren't sure what caused the crash. [Daily Gazette] [TU]

(there's more)

Senate drama twists again, small plane crashes into Mohawk, firefighters pull unconcisous girl from fire, Whole Foods reportedly scouting area

The state Senate drama took another twist over the weekend when Hiram Monserrate -- one of the Democratic switchers -- said he's returning to caucus with the Democrats. Apparently one of Monserrate's demands for returning to the Dems' caucus was that Malcolm Smith had to go as majority leader. Brooklyn senator John Sampson is reportedly going to take over as head of the Democratic caucus -- but Smith might stay on as leader-in-name-only so the Democrats can pursue their case arguing that the Republican takeover was illegal. [NYDN] [NYDN] [NYP] [TU]

If Monserrate really does switch back, it would leave the Senate split 31-31 -- and that could mean epic gridlock. Dean Skelos and Pedro Espada -- the (new, former?) Senate leaders -- would stay in charge of the body. Typically in a 31-31 split the lieutenant governor would cast the deciding vote -- but New York is currently without a lt governor. Republicans are apparently arguing that Espada -- who's the Senate pro tem -- should get two votes. That's not going over well with the Democrats. [Buffalo News] [NYDN]

By the way: Espada still hasn't settled his numerous campaign disclosure violations, as he promised to do. [TU]

Two people are dead and another missing after a small plane crashed into the Mohawk shortly after take-off from the Mohawk Valley Airport in Glenville yesterday afternoon. Witnesses say it appears the plane didn't get enough speed to take off. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

The Troy pizza shop worker who thwarted a robbery last month was shot four times Saturday in another hit on the shop -- he's expected to live. Police say the man confronted the shooter(s) in front of the store because he thought something was up. The shop is a Domino's -- the company is offering a $5000 reward for info. [TU] [Troy Record] [CapNews9]

(there's more)

Senate drama grinds on, land deal closed for chip fab, Tuffey back on the job, man tasered in burning house, winery planned near Saratoga

The state Senate stayed locked -- literally -- yesterday as the Republican led coalition tried to solidify its backing and Democrats tried to regain the upper hand (it looks like they'll be challenging the takeover in court). Pedro Espada, the possibly-new Senate president pro tem, said the chamber would open today -- and he proudly displayed the key to the locked room (though he wouldn't say how he obtained it). David Paterson scolded the Senate yesterday, urging its members to "to act like adults." [TU] [TU] [AP/Daily Gazette] [NYDN]

The senator-of-the-moment is Hiram Monserrate, the other Democratic switcher. It seems he might be playing both sides in a bid to get the best deal. Said one unidentified legislator: "Hiram is driving the train. God help us all." Monserrate seemed to indicate yesterday that he's sticking with the Republican-led coaltion. One apparent undercurrent to this drama is increasing friction between Latino and African American legislators (both Espada and Monserrate are Latino). [NYT] [Newsday] [Buffalo News] [Daily Politics] [NYT]

Part of yesterday's proceedings outside the Senate chamber: a clown -- who was apparently hired by the New York Post. [PolitickerNY]

GlobalFoundries closed on the land for the Luther Forest chip fab yesterday. GloFo bought 223 acres for $7.8 million. Land clearing is scheduled to start next week and construction in late July. The signed deal had Saratoga County officials celebrating what one person described as a "10,000-piece jigsaw puzzle". Others were a bit more in-your-face. Said the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce president: "To everyone who said it wouldn't happen: 'See you, suckers!'" [Daily Gazette] [Biz Review] [TU] [Post-Star] [Saratogian]

(there's more)

Woman killed in Schenectady deli stick-up, Tonko endorses Morris, Paterson reaches out to Bruno on same-sex marriage, Price Chopper alleges grocery espionage, plane lands on Route 9

A woman was shot and killed in a deli on Eastern Ave in Schenectady Friday night (map). Police say it appears the woman got caught up in the middle of a robbery -- but they're not sure whether the she was intentionally shot. [Daily Gazette] [TU]

A Troy man has been arrested for the death of his girfriend's three-year-old daughter. Police haven't said yet how the girl died. [TU]

Paul Tonko has endorsed Shawn Morris in the Albany mayoral race. Responded Jerry Jennings: "... the people behind me are the people that live in this city, that work in this city, and that will vote in this city." [TU] [CapNews9]

David Paterson has reached out to Joe Bruno to help him lobby Republican state Senators to support to the same-sex marriage bill. [Liz Benjamin]

The Obama Administration has found many of its appointees in New York State. [TU]

Another New Yorker the Obama team has leaned on heavily -- whether they like it or not: Chuck Schumer.

(there's more)

Chip fab construction could start soon, bottle bill postponed, new principal for Albany High, fee going up for flying out of ALB

GlobalFoundries and labor unions have reportedly worked out a deal that includes the payment of union wages at the construction site of the Luther Forest chip fab -- whether workers are union or not. GloFo has been waiting to close on the land for the fab until it had such a deal in place. The agreement is apparently not officially a done deal -- though both the company and the unions say they're "very close." If the agreement does comes together, the initial stages of construction at the site could begin in a few weeks. [TU] [Daily Gazette] [Post-Star] [Biz Review]

The emergency preparedness drill involving that low-flying helicopter started yesterday in Albany County. The drill's scenario includes the "detonation" of two radioactive "dirty bombs" in downtown Albany. About 600 people from local, state and federal governments are involved in the training. [TU] [Troy Record] [Daily Gazette] [Fox23]

A federal judge has postponed the start of New York's "better bottle bill" (which adds bottled water to list of beverages that require a 5 cent deposit) until next April. The judge also tossed the bill's New York State-specific bar code provision. [AP/TU] [NYT]

It sounds ethics reform for the state legislature is going to stall because Sheldon Silver is not on board. [NYT]

The two largest state worker unions say they're in "discussions" with the Paterson administration about the planned layoffs. [CBS6]

(there's more)

Police say kidnapping and car chase shooting were linked, crackdown planned for Alive at Five, new Spitzer details, badass of the week

Police say last week's multi-city kidnapping and the car-to-car shooting in Troy were all part of the same story -- a twisted, violent story like something out of 24 or a mob movie. Police say the woman abducted in Albany last week was tortured -- including the use of bleach and salt in her wounds -- in Troy as part of an attempt to extract information from her about a safe her brother allegedly stole. The brother then allegedly went to Troy to swap the safe for his sister, but not trusting the captors, police say he opened fire on them as they drove -- with the man's sister in the trunk of one of the cars -- through the streets of Troy. [TU] [Troy Record] [WNYT]

The City of Albany says it'll be cracking down on drunk people at this summer's Alive at Five concerts. Among the methods: the use of a sensor to test drinks -- and people -- for alcohol. [Troy Record] [TU]

Scores on state math tests given to grade school students were up statewide this year -- including local school districts. The results prompted the head of the state Board of Regents to ask if the test was too easy. [NYSED] [Daily Gazette] [TU]

State Senator Tom Duane, the sponsor of the Senate same-sex marriage bill, says the measure has enough votes to pass the state Senate. Senate majority leader Malcolm Smith says he doesn't think that's true -- and says he won't bring the bill to a vote if he thinks it will fail. [NYDN] [Buffalo News] [TU]

(there's more)

Albany cop testifies he was yelled at over accident involving chief's niece, Kathina Thomas killed a year ago today, Albany Med gets big gift, Saratoga bike-to-school ban protested

Albany police officer Daniel Condon testified under oath before the Common Council last night that he felt "intimidated" after police chief James Tuffey "yelled" at him over the radio at the scene of a 2007 car wreck involving Tuffey's niece -- Condon ended up not issuing a ticket. Condon was testifying as part of the Common Council's investigation into the ghost ticket scandal. Retired commander Leonard Crouch -- a former head of the police union -- also testified, and accused the council of pursuing the investigation "for no good reason other than personal or political gain." [TU] [CapNews9]

Police say an Albany woman was abducted from her apartment on Elk Street, transported to Troy where she was beaten, and then transported to Schenectady in a car trunk. They say the woman escaped in Schenectady after managing to get the trunk opened from the inside -- a passing driver picked her up and took her to the hospital. Three women have been arrested for their alleged involvement in the kidnapping. A spokesman for the Albany police said the case is like something "right out of a movie or a TV show." [TU] [Daily Gazette] [Troy Record] [Fox23]

Kathina Thomas was killed by a stray bullet in West Hill one year ago today. There's a memorial for her this evening. [TU] [WNYT]

(there's more)

Justin Maine: "So Right, So Smart"

Justin.jpg

Justin Maine, one of the directors of "So Right, So Smart."

Local filmmaker Justin Maine just got back from New Zealand where he collected the Best Feature Film prize at the Reel Earth Festival for his new documentary, "So Right So Smart."

Maine is one of the owners of MagicWig Productions in Schenectady. Usually they produce corporate video, but for the last three years his team (Guy Noerr, Leanne Robinson Maine and Michael Swantek) has been flying around the country documenting the efforts of businesses to "go green."

The resulting film, narrated by Daryl Hannah, covers a wide range of businesses -- from a farm to a brewery to a clothing company to Barenaked Ladies (yep, the band) to Wal-Mart.

So Right, So Smart makes its local debut on Saturday at Albany's Palace Theater.

Before he left for New Zealand, Justin hung out with us over bagels and told us how the worlds largest manufacturer of commercial carpeting taught him about the importance of going green, why Al Gore isn't in his movie and what he and his team have in common with folks like Kevin Smith and Peter Jackson.

(there's more)

More criticism of ambulance response times, Tuffey's credentials quesitoned, fewer state worker layoffs predicted, students not allowed to ride bikes to school, bear sightings in Troy

The head of the Albany firefighters' union says his members have complained "several times" about slow response times for Mohawk Ambulance. The service is under scrutiny after it took 25 minutes for an ambulance to show up at the scene of a fatal crash between a kid on a bike and a car last week. [TU]

A TU review of records indicates that Albany police chief James Tuffey is not actually licensed to be a police officer -- though, by law, the doesn't preclude him from being chief. Common Council president Shawn Morris -- who's also running for mayor -- says there's "a strong expectation across the board that the police chief is a police officer" and has called for Tuffey to go on leave while the matter is investigated. That TU investigation also turned up questions about whether Tuffey has a permit to carry a gun. [TU] [Fox23] [TU]

"Experts" say only a few hundred state workers will actually be laid off as part of the state budget cuts. The state Department of Budget reports that 1,200 of the 8,700 planned job cuts have already happened because of the hiring freeze and retirements. [Newsday]

A Greenfield landlord has been charged with murder after police say he stabbed a tenant last week. [Saratogian]

(there's more)

Ambulance delay questioned, Paterson pessimistic about state finances, Rensselaer council doesn't show for no-show vote, Listerine blamed for failed sobriety test, surge of interest in home gardens

Albany mayor Jerry Jennings says he's putting together a task force to investigate why it took 25 minutes for an ambulance to show up at the scene of a fatal crash between a kid on a bike and a car. A spokesman for the ambulance company, Mohawk Ambulance, said "extraordinary circumstances" required the company to pull an ambulance from Troy to make the run. Firefighters who first responded to the scene reportedly called dispatch twice inquiring about the location of the ambulance. The boy -- who wasn't wearing a helmet -- later died at St. Peter's. The site of the crash was a little more than two miles from the hospital. [CapNews9] [TU] [Fox23] [Google Maps]

David Paterson is warning that $3 billion may have to be cut from this year's state budget -- though it seems that prediction isn't based on much more than his own hunch. Paterson's own budget office gently disputed the claim yesterday. [NYT] [NYDN]

Paterson made his comments about the budget at an appearance yesterday to sign a bill that uses federal stimulus money to extend a person's possible collection of unemployment benefits to 72 weeks. [TU]

State leaders are trying to work out a fix for the new bottle bill. It looks like a revised version will not include the New York-only barcode that bottlers said was going to be so much trouble. [TU]

Saratoga Springs police say they found a grenade and a bunch of guns during a domestic violence call yesterday. SSPD -- along with the ATF -- later arrested a man who lived at the residence. The bomb squad was called to remove the grenade. [TU] [Saratogian] [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

School budgets pass with a few notable exceptions, state budget might have to be cut again, state driving while texting ban proposed, SPAC tax might help Saratoga close gap

Most school budgets in the Capital Region passed yesterday -- but the budgets for Schenectady and Troy did not. Schenectady's schools superintendent blamed recent negative media coverage (Raucci, suicides) for the defeat. Troy's budget was narrowly defeated and its schools superintendent says he thinks the budget would pass on a second attempt. County round-ups: Albany, Schenectady, Rennselaer, Saratoga. [TU] [TU] [Daily Gazette] [Troy Record] [TU] [Daily Gazette] [Troy Record] [Saratogian]

State revenues are falling significantly behind last year's pace and it looks like this year's budget will have to be cut again, according to a report from the state comptroller. [NYT]

It doesn't look like caps on state spending or property tax increases currently have any chance in the state legislature, but municipal consolidation is getting attention. Also (sort of) surfacing again: the soda tax. [TU] [Daily Politics]

A state Assemblyman from the Bronx has proposed a bill that would ban texting while driving. The bill is currently being blocked by a Rochester legislator, but it apparently has some support from Sheldon Silver. [CapNews9] [Buffalo News]

The bottled water industry has filed suit in federal court arguing that the new bottle deposit bill is unconstitutional because it violates the commerce clause and the equal protection clause. [TU]

(there's more)

Earth gently relieving its stress, Paterson calls for calorie counts on menus, Golisano says state bailed on us, Pink Palace sold, guy wins car with hold-in-one

Today is school budget and school board voting day. [CapNews9]

A geologist at the State Museum says the recent string of small earthquakes in Berne is a good thing because stresses in the earth are being released gently. [AOA] [TU]

Police are continuing to investigate the former doctor who's accused of torching Saratoga Winners for the insurance money. Among the points of interest: alleged paycheck irregularities at his staffing firm and a burned-down hair salon. [TU]

Republican Mary Ann McGinn -- an attorney with an MBA -- says she's running for Albany City Treasurer. The current -- and embattled -- treasurer, Democrat Betty Barnette, is also facing a primary challenge. [TU]

Sixteen schools in New York City have now been closed because of the recent flare up of the emerging H1N1 flu. Public officials aren't sure if the school closings actually help, though. The state health department is trying to get a centralized system together to track student illnesses -- the hope being such a system would help officials identify an outbreak earlier. [NYT] [NYT] [AP/CapNews9]

David Paterson has proposed state legislation that would require chain restaurants to post calorie information on their menus. The rule might even apply to places such as Stewart's. [TU] [Troy Record]

(there's more)

Police say Saratoga Winners fire was arson, earthquake near Berne, two men Cheney'd while hunting turkey, time capsule found

Colonie police say the owner of Saratoga Winners set the club on fire so he could collect the insurance money. The owner is a former gynecologist -- his medical license was revoked 2006. [Troy Record] [TU]

The USGS reports there was a magnitude 3 earthquake near Berne last night -- people report that it woke them up. [USGS] [CBS6]

Stillwater says water usage in the town is down 2 million gallons (no time frame given)-- perhaps out of concern about PCB contamination from the Hudson seeping into the town's wells. [CapNews9]

One of the highest-profile potential primary challengers to Kirsten Gillibrand says he won't run for the Senate. Steve Israel, a Congressman from Long Island, says President Obama asked him to not challenge Gillibrand. [TU] [NYT]

A man in New York City died last night from complications related to the emerging H1N1 influenza -- New York's State's first reported death from the virus. NYC has closed 10 schools in an effort to keep a lid on another flu flare up. [NYT]

(there's more)

Hudson River dredging starts today, no pork for Tedisco, Brown's new brews held up by barcode confusion, prom dress rugby

The Hudson River PCB dredging project finally starts today. Years in the planning -- and fighting -- the project is expected to cost more than $750 million and stretch until 2015. The first phase will include crews working 24 hours a day, six days a week until October. Towns in Saratoga County that get their drinking water from the Hudson have already switched over to Troy's water supply after tests indicated the level of PCBs in the river was twice the EPA's safe limit. [Post-Star] [Biz Review] [TU] [CapNews9]

A fourth Skidmore student has been charged in the alleged assault of a fellow student in April. The four students -- all seniors -- are accused of breaking down multiple doors to reach the sophomore, who -- according to his attorney -- says the alleged attack was like something out of The Shining. The four seniors reportedly had a dispute with the sophomore over a woman.[Saratogian] [TU] [Post-Star]

Jim Tedisco didn't take any pork this year for his Assembly district. Last year he gave out more than $400k in "member item" money. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

David Paterson vetoed legislation that would have fined local governments for not complying with the state's open meetings law. He said the law was "problematic" because the $500 fine would have been assessed to the governmental entity -- not the officials. [AP/TU]

State comptroller Tom DiNapoli issued a report recommending that the state adopt a two-year budget cycle and voter-approval of new state debt. [Biz Review]

(there's more)

Assembly passes same-sex marriage bill, GE battery plant coming to Capital Region, NY's top court says no police GPS without warrant, condo slump in Saratoga, the $500 wedding

The state Assembly passed a bill that would allow same-sex marriage. The vote was 89-52 -- that's four more "yes" votes than in 2007. Five members who had voted "no" two year ago voted "yes" this time around. The lobbying focus now shifts to the state Senate, where there's currently no vote scheduled on the bill. The Senate sponsor of the bill said last night the he thinks he has enough votes to pass the measure. [TU] [Daily Politics] [NYT] [Planet Albany]

GE announced that it will build a plant to manufacture special rechargeable batteries somewhere in the Capital Region. The plant will employ 350 people and will cost $100 million -- $15 million of which the state is chipping in. The exact location of the plant has yet to be determined. Saratoga County officials are hoping the plant will land at the Luther Forest tech campus or NYSERDA's Saratoga Technology & Energy Park. [TU] [Daily Gazette] [Saratogian]

Former state health commissioner Antonia Novello was arraigned yesterday in Albany County Court on 20 count indictment that alleges she took advantage of her staffers while she headed up the health department. She could get as many 12 years in prison. An earlier state inspector general report concluded that Novello had run up almost $50k in staff overtime for things such as driving her to the mall, watering her plants and arranging her furniture. Novello's case is being compared to former state comptroller Alan Hevesi, who resigned after it came out he had been using state employees to chauffeur his wife. Novello's lawyer she's being targeted for political reasons. [TU] [AP/Daily Gazette] [NYP] [NYDN]

(there's more)

Same-sex marriage vote today in Assembly, two confirmed cases of H1N1 in Capital Region, Saratoga Springs facing big budget gap, Rachael Ray back at her alma mater

The state Assembly is expected to pass a bill today that would make same-sex marriage legal in New York (no vote is scheduled in the Senate). One of the leading advocates of the bill in the Assembly is Daniel O'Donnell, the first openly gay person to serve in the Assembly -- he's also Rosie's brother. [NYDN] [TU] [NYT]

Former state health commissioner -- and US Surgeon General -- Antonia Novella was arraigned this morning in Albany County court on charges she defrauded the state by taking advantage of her state staffers. [TU]

There are now two confirmed cases of the emerging H1N1 influenza in the greater Capital Region. Officials are saying very little about the case in Saratoga County -- they do say that it's a 12-year-old. The other case is in a Washington County student -- Cambridge Central School officials say they've been disinfecting high traffic areas of the school every night. There have now been 196 confirmed cases of the new strain of H1N1 in New York State -- 38 of them outside NYC. [Post-Star] [Fox23] [NYS DoH]

The Schenectady County DA says investigators have matched DNA from a fork used by Steven Raucci to DNA found on a cigarette used as part of an explosive device. The former Schenectady school district employee was arraigned yesterday -- he's under indictment for 26 felony counts that include terrorism and arson. Raucci's attorney said yesterday that prosecutors have put together "a case full of exaggerations." [TU] [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

Friday's asks state police to look into snake head, parking official's wife's car got ghost tickets, landfill fined for stinkiness, Skidmore students accused of beat down, rooster finds new home, Tulip Queen crowned

TGI Friday's says the an independent lab has concluded that the snake head found in a side order of broccoli at its restaurant in Clifton Park was added after the veggies were cooked. The company says it's asked the State Police to open a criminal investigation. [TU] [AP/Daily Gazette]

GlobalFoundries says it won't buy the land for the Luther Forest chip fab until it can work out an agreement with construction unions -- and David Paterson's office is participating in the negotiations. Even with all the recent hype, the project still has some doubters. [TU] [Biz Review] [TU]

The vehicle registered to the wife of Albany's Parking Violations Bureau director received 70 ghost tickets, according to documents obtained by the TU. Albany treasurer Betty Barnette has said that her office, which includes the parking violations bureau, had no knowledge of the ghost ticket program. [TU]

A federal appeals court has upheld the $265,000 in damages awarded to a man who says an Albany cop violated his civil rights during an arrest in 2002. The cop -- who's had numerous complaints filed against him -- is still on the job. [TU]

Advocates for same-sex marriage have put together a coordinated campaign to lobby potential swing votes in the state Senate. Many senators have yet to say publicly how they'll vote on the issue. [NYT]

The state Senate and its slim Democratic majority have been quite the drama lately as small groups of senators have tried to get theirs by holding out on various bills. And now this: Kevin Parker, a senator from Brooklyn, has been charged with a felony for allegedly wailing on a New York Post photographer -- Parker is, perhaps fittingly, also the sponsor of legislation that would legalize ultimate fighting in the state. [NYT] [NYT] [NYP] [NYP]

Chuck Schumer has asked the Federal Trade Commissioner to look into those "your car warranty is about to expire" scam telemarketing calls. Apparently Schumer had had enough after he got a fourth call on his mobile last week. [AP/TU] [NYT]

(there's more)

Local spots on the big screen

winter frozen dreams

From Winter of Frozen Dreams: yep, that's Schenectady.

A couple of films that were shot in the Capital Region have surfaced lately.

The Skeptic, which was shot in Saratoga and a few other local spots, opens at the Spectrum on Friday. The film's writer/director, Tennyson Bardwell, will be at the theater for a post-screening talk Friday and Saturday evening.

Bardwell told the Gazette recently that Upstate New York is a good place to make movies because there's "not a jaded film community like you see in L.A. or New York." The centerpiece location of the The Skeptic is the Batcheller Mansion in Saratoga -- it's all over the film's trailer.

The other locally-shot movie is Winter of Frozen Dreams, which is based on "the bizarre tale of a brilliant biochemistry student who lead a shocking double life." It was shot at many locations around Schenectady -- in fact, First Prize Mike's shows up prominently in the trailer. WoFD is already available on DVD -- and it's scheduled to be shown at Proctors on May 14.

So are these movies any good?

(there's more)

Dalai Lama in town today, Republican steps into Albany mayoral race, KG introduces first Senate bill, famous shotgun wielding-grandma dies

The Dalai Lama is appearing at the Palace Theater in Albany at 2 pm today. He's also scheduled to stop by the state Senate. A critic of the Clifton Park executive training program that's connected to the event's sponsor organization says Dalai Lama's association with the org is "a mistake." [Palace Theater] [Liz Benjamin] [CapNews9]

There's now a Republican in the race for Albany mayor. Nathan Lebron, an IT exec who lives in the Whitehall neighborhood, says the city's Democratic machine is broken and needs to be replaced. [TU]

Troy police say a man was shot and beaten in his home last night (map). His injuries aren't considered life-threatening. [TU]

David Paterson has ordered state agencies to stop buying bottled water for environmental reasons. The ban covers both indivdual bottles and the standup water cooler bottles. [NYT]

Paterson also announced that the state would be spending $25 million on battery research. The center for that research may not be located upstate, as had originally been announced. [TU] [Gannett/TU]

(there's more)

Paterson proposes spending cap, man arrested after 29 years on the run, more suspected H1N1 cases test negative, Schenectady's empty neighborhoods

David Paterson has proposed capping increases in state spending at the average rate of inflation over the previous three years. Paterson says a cap "will force government to live within its means." The Governor says that if such a cap was already in place, the state would have spent $17 billion less over the last five years. A spending cap would probably have to be added to the state constitution to have any real effect. [AP/Saratogian] [NYDN] [Daily Gazette] [TU] [NYT]

Police arrested a Troy man yesterday who had escaped from a Tennessee prison 29 years ago. Robert T. Henry had been serving a 15 year sentence there for robbery. Henry apparently saw that Tennessee officials were looking for him as part of a sweep of old fugitive cases -- and he contacted them to proclaim his innocence. Henry says he was pardoned, though there doesn't seem to be a record of it. Though he apparently kept an apartment, police say he told them he'd been living in Prospect Park. [Troy Record] [TU] [Tennessean] [CapNews9] [Fox23]

The sister of Albany police chief James Tuffey testified before the Common Council last night that her daughter's car did not carry a bull's eye sticker when it was involved in a 2007 crash. The TU has reported that Albany cops didn't ticket the chief's niece for the crash because she had a sticker. [TU]

(there's more)

Officials expect H1N1 flu in every county eventually, first local stimulus project starts, mixed-use development planned for downtown Albany, Dr. Z gets stiffed, the weekend in chase and taser

There were 96 confirmed probable cases of the emerging H1N1 influenza in New York State as of Saturday night, according to the state department of health. Seventeen of the those cases were outside NYC -- and the state health commissioner says they expect that the virus will pop up in every county at some point. Three suspected cases from Schenectady and Albany counties have tested negative -- a suspected case in Saratoga County has gone for testing. The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the virus is now "circulating all over" the country. [NYS DoH] [NYT] [Daily Gazette] [Saratogian] [NYT]

The Capital Region's first stimulus-funded project -- the reconstruction of Delaware Ave in Albany -- starts today (map). [TU]

The final tally for spending in the Tedisco-Murphy special election: $3.6 million -- $2.05 million by Murphy and $1.55 million by Tedisco. [TU]

Scott Murphy opened an office in Saratoga Springs Friday (it was Kirsten Gillibrand's old office). Murphy mentioned KG at least six times during his public comments. Apparently the biggest complaint at Murphy's first "Congress on Your Corner" event: Murphy supporters were blocking the nearby drive-up mailbox. [Post-Star] [Saratogian]

A state commission is looking into whether the ghost parking tickets given to some state officials in Albany violated a ban on gifts. [TU]

(there's more)

Shopping the farmers' markets

farmers market report logoLocal farmers' markets are moving outdoors this weekend and there's lots of yummy, seasonal food to be had.

This week's bounty includes ramps, asparagus, arugula, spinach and all sorts of seedlings.

Here's a breakdown of what you'll find at the weekend markets in Troy, Schenectady and Saratoga. Don't forget, the Troy market moves to its new location in Riverfront Park this week.

Next week we'll have more from these and other area markets.

(there's more)

Officials urge calm on emerging flu, CDTA consolidating routes, Albany getting grant for anti-violence program, old Saratoga Winners destroyed, no Shakespeare in the Park this year

New York State has now had 54 confirmed cases of the emerging H1N1 flu -- including three cases outside NYC. Samples from five suspected cases in the greater Capital Region (two each in Schenectady and Washington counties, one in Albany County) have been sent for testing -- officials say they're not sure when results will be back on those samples. David Paterson reiterated his call for people to stay calm and said the state is prepping for a worst-case scenario. [TU] [Saratogian] [Daily Gazette]

Albany city treasurer Betty Barnette now says she will release copies of dismissed parking tickets to the Common Council -- if the council agrees to not share the info with anyone else. Barnette had initially balked at the council's request, which is part of the ghost ticket investigation, citing HIPAA -- even though the medical privacy law doesn't apply to her office. [TU]

CDTA ridership was up 11 percent to record levels during the fiscal year that ended in March. The transit org says it's still short on money, though, and will be changing, consolidating and eliminating routes to save money. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

Police used a state police helicopter, a K-9 unit and a lockdown of schools yesterday during a manhunt in Schenectady. Police were looking for a man they suspect has information about the fatal shooting outside a club this past weekend. They didn't get him. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

Officials expect statewide spread of swine flu, Murphy to be sworn in, Vick offer "a big mistake," paid parking proposal for Saratoga, ice cream truck pulls crazy U-ee

State health commissioner Richard Daines says he expects swine flu to eventually spread to every part of the state -- and DoH is already testing suspected cases in a handful of upstate counties. There have been 45 confirmed cases in New York State so far -- all of them in NYC. Said David Paterson yesterday: "This not time for alarm, but it's time to be alert." [WXXI] [TU]

State budget director Laura Anglin says this year's budget is on track to stay even -- if the planned state worker job cuts go through. The next few years aren't looking good, though. [NYS DoB] [TU] [NYT]

About 8,700 state worker job cuts, the Division of the Budget says it's still reviewing plans submitted by various agencies. [TU]

Scott Murphy is scheduled to be sworn in today at the US Capitol. [Daily Gazette]

The Albany Firebirds say the team's contract offer to Michael Vick was a marketing ploy -- and, in the words of the team's owner, "a big mistake."

(there's more)

State is monitoring swine flu situation, murder in Schenectady, Angelina makes shows up, baby born on Thruway, Fountain Day draws record crowd

David Paterson says the state is monitoring the swine flu situation, but doesn't see "any real danger ahead." There have been eight confirmed cases of swine flu in Queens. (Some perspective.) [Fox23] [NYT] [NYT]

The 911 call in which an off-duty Schenectady cop followed an allegedly drunk off-duty Albany police detective driving through Albany and Delmar indicates that the APD may have held off on pursuing the detective. According to the off-duty Schenectady cop's comments on the call, the APD detective could barely stand and almost hit cars coming in the opposite direction. [TU]

"Several" Albany Common Council members tell the TU that Jerry Jennings' executive assistant has been trying to convince them to drop the council's investigation of the ghost ticket scandal. [TU]

A man was shot and killed in the parking lot of a State Street topless bar in Schenectady Friday night. The SPD has identified the victim as a Schenectady resident. [TU] [Daily Gazette] [@schdypolice]

Scott Murphy said Jim Tedisco concession was a "very gracious" end to the special election. With about 700 ballots still uncounted, Murphy was up 399 votes on Tedisco Friday afternoon. Murphy got a congratulatory call from President Obama. Republicans, wondering how they lost again in a district with more enrolled Republicans than Democrats, pointed to a lack of party unity and backfiring negative ads as contributing factors to Tedisco's loss. There's speculation now that Tedisco could be on his way out of the Assembly. Murphy wouldn't say on Friday whether he plans to run again next year. [Daily Gazette] [NYS BoE] [Saratogian] [TU] [Daily Gazette] [PolitickerNY]

Angelina Jolie was in town yesterday to shoot scenes for Salt (video -- pics of the crew and shot setup). It seems locals can't get enough of gawking at the scene. Apparently the paparazzi prefer NYC, though. Oh, Brad Pitt was not here -- he was in Niagara Falls. [TU] [TU] [CBS6] [Troy Record] [TU] [Telegraph UK] [TU] [Buffalo News]

(there's more)

Former state tax worker accused of stealing identities, Jennings officially running for re-election, Troy and Albany among highest spending districts, DA wants meeting about Skidmore pot, woman wants to clean up the crap

A retired employee of the state Department of Taxation and Finance was arrested yesterday on accusations that he had used stolen taxpayers' person and financial info to open credit cards and other accounts. He's accused of running up $200,000 in fraudulent charges. Authorities say they found more than 2000 post-it notes with taxpayer data in the man's Troy home. [TU] [AP/Daily Gazette] [Troy Record]

The NY20 special election inched forward yesterday a judge ruled on how some of the absentee ballots should be assessed. The latest unofficial numbers from the New York State Board of Elections has Scott Murphy leading Jim Tedisco by 365 votes. [TU] [NYS BoE]

Tedisco was facing a sticky situation in his current job -- in the state Assembly -- yesterday after someone anonymously sent documents to the TU and various other offices that indicate Tedisco's top staffer had his personal legal bills paid by Repbublican Assembly campaign money. [TU]

Jerry Jennings has officially announced he's running for re-election as mayor of Albany. [TU]

Filming starts today on that Angelina Jolie movie -- here's a listing of the road closures. [AOA]

(there's more)

UAlbany students say alleged "Craigslist killer" was nerdy and nice, Barnette rebuffs request for dismissed parking tickets, building inspector says he was fired over rec center, Potato Playground closes

UAlbany officials say there are no indications that Philip Markoff, the alleged "Craigslist killer," was involved in any criminal cases during his four years as an undergrad at the school (he graduated in 2007 with a degree in biology). One of Markoff's lab partners at UAlbany called him "a nerdy science lover." A person who says he was one of Markoff's best friends at UAlbany called him "a great guy" who was "an intellectual, nice, friendly guy." Though one of Markoff's lab partners at Boston U's school of medicine said Markoff had exhibited extreme mood swings and she was "not even remotely surprised" that he'd been charged with murder. [AP/Daily Gazette] [TU] [MSNBC] [Boston Globe]

Albany city treasurer Betty Barnette says she can't comply with the Common Council's request for copies of all the parking tickets dismissed in 2008 because doing so would violate HIPAA. Yep, the medical privacy law. Council president Shawn Morris said the explanation is "absurd." [TU]

Columbia Pictures is paid just $25 for the permit to rent I-787 and ramps to/from the ESP for the filming of that Angelina Jolie movie. The production company is also paying for costs associated with the necessary detours. A state official estimates the production will inject $500k into the local economy. [Daily Gazette] [TU]

Benzie Johnson, a resident of Pine Hills, says he's running for mayor of Albany. Johnson is a registered Democrat but says he'll be seeking nomination on another party's ticket -- he says he doesn't think any Democrat can beat Jerry Jennings in the primary. [TU] [CapNews9]

(there's more)

Alleged "Craigslist killer" went to UAlbany, Schenectady HS fight reportedly over suicide taunting, police say bus driver may have been at wheel drunk, smokin' at Skidmore

Philip Markoff, the Boston U medical student accused of being "the Craigslist killer" by police, is reportedly a 2007 UAlbany graduate. The man's fiance, who also reportedly attended UAlbany, told ABC News that police have the wrong guy. Markoff is the fourth former UAlbany student to be charged with murder during the last five years. [Boston Globe] [AP] [ABC News] [Albany Student Press]

Three teen girls were charged after a fight at Schenectady High School yesterday injured two teachers. One of the girl's mothers said her daughter did throw the first punch -- because she was being taunted about the recent suicide of her cousin. Students said yesterday that bullying is an ongoing problem at the school. [TU] [Daily Gazette] [Fox23]

Rudy Giuliani was in town last night for the Albany County Republicans' annual Lincoln Reagan dinner. Guiliani said state leaders should be "ashamed" of the New York's current "anti-competitive position" and he criticized the size of the recently passed state budget. Guiliani said he hasn't made his mind up about whether he'll run for governor next year and isn't sure when he will. [NYDN] [CapNews9] [AP/Newsday] [PolitickerNY]

There are still about 1500 disputed absentee ballots still to be counted (or not counted) in the NY20 special election. Scott Murphy's unofficial lead over Jim Tedisco is at 273 votes -- and Democrats are starting to make noises about the race being over. [TU] [CapNews9]

(there's more)

State worker unions confront Paterson at Gideon Putnam, Murphy lead over Tedisco widens, why the Dalai Lama reconsidered, bank knocked over with electric drill, Saratoga grid could get smart, Dr. Wow

The state worker unions protested the planned job cuts outside the state Democratic Rural Conference Friday evening at the Gideon Putnam. David Paterson stopped outside the meetings to talk with the protesters -- though one union rep called the impromptu session "absolutely unproductive." Paterson later told a news conference that the unions haven't been willing to "any sort of effort that would help us balance our budget." The unions say the state save money by cutting the use of outside contractors. [Post-Star] [TU] [Daily Gazette] [Saratogian]

Police say the gunman in the Union St. shooting last week was the boyfriend of the murdered man's estranged wife. Police say the shooter shot himself in Niskayuna after he saw police at his apartment. They say they're not sure what motivated the incident. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

The unofficial count from the New York State Board of Elections has Scott Murphy up 273 votes on Jim Tedisco in the NY20 special election. [NYS BoE]

A rep for the Dalai Lama says the Buddhist spiritual leader has decided to come to Albany because he "feels committed to supporting the expression of worthy ideals." The Dalai Lama had cancelled an earlier appearance because of the negative publicity associated with the Ethical Humanitarian Foundation, the sponsoring organization. EHF is connected to a Clifton Park executive leadership program that's been accused of cult-like tactics. [TU] [Forbes]

A plant that processes hazardous waste in Cohoes was grossly under reporting its emissions for years, according to an analysis of EPA numbers by the TU. [TU]

Police say the human skeleton found in Rotterdam near the Mohawk last week belonged to a man who was reported missing in 2005. They say they're not sure what caused the man's death. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

State police say the guy who robbed the Key Bank on Hoosick St in Troy on Friday might have used to an electric drill for the stick-up.

New York State's unemployment benefits are not indexed to inflation -- and have not been raised by the state legislature for more than a decade. [NYT]

An Albany police commander says a small group of young people are responsible for about 75 percent of gun violence in the city. [TU]

(there's more)

Signatures wine bar at Proctor's

Signatures.jpg

Yes, we know your Mom taught you not to drink and write on walls -- but it's OK here. Really.

Last week we headed over to Proctor's to see Sweeney Todd and we discovered this fun little makeshift wine bar called Signatures.

We were actually a little afraid to go in at first because the spot used to be an exclusive room for Proctor's patrons only.

But these days rabble like us can get in, have a drink before a show, and write on the walls.

(there's more)

Paterson introduces same-sex marriage bill, two shooting deaths in Schenectady, high-speed rail gets Presidential attention, Troy might bring in The Pothole Killer

David Paterson officially introduced a bill yesterday that would make same-sex marriage legal in New York State. Paterson framed the measure as a civil rights issue: "We have a duty to make sure equality exists for everyone." This same bill passed the Assembly in 2007, but failed in the state Senate. Majority leader Malcolm Smith wasn't at yesterday's announcement, though he says he's "fully committed to the process of securing the votes" necessary to pass the bill. State Senator Ruben Diaz -- a Democrat who's against the measure -- called the bill "a challenge the governor is sending to every religious person in New York." [NYT] [AP/TU] [Daily Politics] [NYP]

The state Department of Labor reported that the Capital Region's unemployment rate was 7.3 percent in March -- that's down from 7.6 percent in February, but up from 5 percent a year ago. A labor department analyst says the numbers may indicate that unemployment has hit a bottom -- maybe. [NYS DoL] [TU]

Authorities say two shooting deaths in Schenectady last night may have been a murder-suicide -- though the Schenectady County DA says "there's still a lot of legwork to be done." The first shooting was on Union St, about a block from the Union College campus (map). The Schenectady PD reported the incident on Twitter. [Daily Gazette] [TU] (Earlier on AOA: Schenectady mugshots on Twitter)

Absentee ballot counting in the NY20 special election has slowed over the way disputed ballots are to be counted. It also probably didn't help that some elections officials in Dutchess County decided to go to the Yankees game yesterday. The unofficial count at the end of yesterday from the New York State Board of Elections has Scott Murphy up 178 votes on Jim Tedisco. [TU] [PolitickerNY] [NYS BoE]

(there's more)

Moon and River Cafe in Schenectady

By Jessica Pasko

Moon and River.jpgSo earlier in the week I dropped into the Moon and River Cafe in Schenectady to checkout the Electric City Ukulele Club and I thought, "Wow, I should write about this place."

It was my first visit to this fun, quirky little cafe but it certainly won't be my last.

(there's more)

Special election probably headed to judge's hands, "tea party" draws thousands, car flips on 890, what keeps Schenectady's toilets working, no dogs allowed in Troy's dog park

The unofficial count from the New York State Board of Elections for the NY20 special election had Scott Murphy up 86 votes on Jim Tedisco at the end of yesterday. Saratoga County finished its counting yesterday -- and didn't provide the windfall of votes for which the Tedisco campaign had been hoping. It looks like the election's final count will be in the hands of a state Supreme Court judge as thousands of contested ballots will ultimately be included/kicked by his decisions. [NYS BoE] [TU] [Daily Gazette]

More than 2000 people showed up for the "Tax Day Tea Party" event at the Corning Preserve yesterday. Many of the people there seemed to just be generally upset about the state of government. Photosets of the event from Flickr users chimpmitten and the.bnut. [TU] [Troy Record] [Flickr] [Flickr]

The state AG's office filed more charges related to corruption in during term of former state comptroller Alan Hevesi. You've heard this story before -- politically connected friends are accused of getting huge kickbacks for not really doing anything. [TU]

It seems the rejected plans for the Saratoga City Center expansion were even uglier than the one approved. The rejected designs had nicknames such as "the bunker" and "Home Depot." [Post-Star] [Saratogian]

(there's more)

The Electric City Ukulele Club

Electric City Ukulele Club.jpg

Electric City ukers

By Jessica Pasko

So it turns out the ukulele craze has made it to Schenectady.

What? You didn't know there was a ukulele craze?

Well, we're not sure craze is the right word, but apparently the uke has seen a resurgence in popularity. In the past several years it's moved well beyond the hula and folk to rock and even punk (yes, there's actually a punk group called Uke til You Puke.)

Search ukulele on YouTube.com and you'll find a ton of renditions of pop and rock songs done uke-style. There's even a documentary called Rock that Uke along with festivals and groups around the country dedicated to the pint-sized string instrument.

If you're a ukulele lady (or man) or you're just curious, you can jam with other uke lovers or listen in at The Electric City Ukulele Club.

(there's more)

State worker union says it rejected another no-layoff deal, horse breeder charged with animal cruelty, whupping charges lessened, bakery's sales up with help of cupcakes and Facebook

Note: the TU's site was loading erratically, if at all, for us this morning.

One of the state worker unions says it rejected a deal offered by the Paterson administration in which the creation of a new pension tier would guarantee no layoffs. According to many reports last week, the Paterson administration has offered a handful of deals involving cuts in raises or other concessions in return for a no-layoffs guarantee. The unions have rejected these deals. [TU]

As of Friday afternoon the unofficial count from the New York State Board of Elections has Scott Murphy up 35 votes on Jim Tedisco in the 20th Congressional District special election. The counting of absentee ballots continues this week. Democrats in Columbia County accused Republicans participating in the count there of "acting in bad faith." What happens if the election ends up in a tie at the end of all this counting? You guessed it: we get to do it all over again. [NYS BoE] [TU] [Troy Record]

The horse breeder accused of not providing proper nourishment to horses on a farm in Coxsackie was formally charged with animal cruelty on Friday. A human society official described the farm as a "puppy mill" for horses. [AP/Saratogian] [TU]

The four Schenectady teens who recently committed suicide were linked by a common leader of sorts who was the the first to kill herself. [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

Schenectady mugshots on Twitter

schenectady mugshotsThe Schenectady Police Department has started posting its arrests reports (including mugshots) online -- and it's publicizing them via a Twitter feed. It looks like the department just started this week.

(there's more)

State worker unions talk trash about Paterson, special election absentee ballot count starts, big new contract for Siena basketball coach, Troy dog park become partisan issue

The heads of the two biggest state worker unions, CSEA and PEF, met with David Paterson yesterday about the planned layoffs and it appears not much happened -- except for some trash talking. CSEA president Danny Donohue said the governor "needs a good psychiatrist or at least he should share the drugs that he's on because he's not making any sense to any of our members." Paterson's people called Donohue's remarks "inappropriate" and said they "reflect a lack of respect for the taxpayers of New York." The two unions are also upset that Paterson tried to go over their heads by sending a letter directly to state workers. [TU] [Troy Record] [Fox23] [Biz Review]

The "long, tedious" count of the absentee ballots in the 20th Congressional District special election has started. Every ballot is being examined by an election worker and observers from both campaigns. An elections commissioner says the process could take as long as three weeks. [Daily Gazette] [TU] [Post-Star]

State police and animal protection groups raided a horse farm in Coxsackie yesterday and found 177 malnourished horses. The animals belong to trainer Ernie Paragallo, whose horses have won more than $20 million in purse money over the last 12 years. The condition of Paragallo's horses has been a concern of animal groups since at least 2007. [TU] [NYT] [NYT]

David Paterson says he's planning to introduce legislation that would make same-sex marriages legal in New York. Previous bills have passed in the Assembly, but stalled in the state Senate. [Gannett/TU]

(there's more)

Paterson administration details state worker layoffs, two banks robbed, popular track coach officially fired, common council urges census recognition of same-sex marriages

The Paterson administration released a list detailing how many jobs are to be cut at which state agencies as part of the state worker layoffs -- the biggest cuts are at Corrections and OMRDD. The governor also announced that no management/confidential employees will be cut because they're raises have been canceled, thus saving the state money. Paterson sent a letter to unionized state workers yesterday calling on them to urge their unions to accept wage concessions as a way to avoid layoffs. [TU] [AP/Troy Record] [WNYT]

The Tedisco and Murphy campaigns have been calling absentee voters in the 20th Congressional District in an attempt to find out how they voted in the special election. The count in the race is currently at Tedisco +17. The counting of absentee ballots will start today. [TU] [CapNews9]

A national suicide expert told a community forum in Schenectady last night that kids in the city have told him that they feel anxious and have problems at home. Said one teen who spoke up at the forum, "We need help." Four Schenectady High students have killed themselves during the last five months. [Daily Gazette] [TU]

Two Key Banks in Albany were robbed yesterday, apparently by two different people. Cameras in the Key at Washington and Lark caught a picture of the robber's face. [TU] [Troy Record]

(there's more)

Conviction in triple murder case, special election absentee ballot counting starts this week, Albany Med expansion on hold, woman arrested for false mugging report, bobblehead lineup announced

Jovan Underdue was convicted yesterday of the triple murder in Albany last January. Underdue now faces life in prison without parole. His attorney says they will appeal. [TU]

The Albany Common Council voted unanimously last night to issue a subpoena to the president of the Albany Police Officers Union as part of the ghost ticket investigation. It's the first the time the council has issued a subpoena in 80 years. [TU]

A state Supreme Court judge ruled Monday that the count of paper absentee ballots in the 20th Congressional District special election will start Wednesday. After a re-check of voting machines in Saratoga County, the state Board of Elections reports that Jim Tedisco leads Scott Murphy by 97 votes. But a more up-to-date unofficial count has Murphy up by 83 (the numbers will keep changing as more votes re-checked and/or counted). [TU] [Saratogian] [PolitickerNY]

Central New York Assemblyman Brian Kolb officially replaced Jim Tedisco as state Assembly minority leader yesterday. Tedisco stepped down/was pushed from the position because of his involvement in the special Congressional election. [NYT] [TU]

According to state police, John Sweeney told troopers he was in "big trouble" during his traffic stop for suspected DWI this past weekend. The Saratoga County DA says he expects Sweeney to enter an inpatient treatment program for alcoholism. [TU] [Troy Record]

(there's more)

Dalai Lama visit cancelled, Sweeney picked up for DWI again, Tuffey's niece had bull's eye sticker, another Schenectady HS suicide, school district ordered to pay for not preventing beating, Albany Freenet expanding

A representative for the Dalai Lama tells the TU that the Buddhist spiritual leader will not be coming to Albany as planned. It seems concerns surrounding the sponsor organization's ties to NXIVM, the controversial "personal growth" training org, caused the Dalai Lama's people to reconsider. [TU]

The state Senate finished passing the budget bills Friday night. Assessments of the budget differed greatly between the two parties. Even with passage in both houses, the contents of the budget aren't entirely clear -- and it may have to be revised later this year. [TU] [Daily Politics] [NYT]

At the least for the moment, the vote totals for Jim Tedisco and Scott Murphy are exactly tied. That number is almost sure to change as five counties have yet to finish re-checking the numbers on their voting machines. Tedisco announced Friday that he was stepping down as Assembly minority leader to "focus on his transition to Congress" -- though he also said he's not declaring victory. It seems Assembly Republicans were also keen to push him out of the position. The Saratoga Springs regional office for the 20th Congressional District has temporarily re-opened with its old staff while the election is sorted out. [TU] [Daily Gazette] [NYT] [Daily Gazette] [Post-Star]

Former Congressman John Sweeney was arrested early Sunday morning for allegedly driving drunk on Route 9 in Clifton Park. This is Sweeney's second DWI arrest, which bumped the charge up to a felony. Earlier in Sweeney's career he served as Rensselaer County's STOP-DWI coordinator. [Daily Gazette] [TU] [Troy Record]

Among those who had a bull's eye sticker: the niece of police chief James Tuffey (another one of her uncles was also police chief for a time). An unidentified source tells the TU that Tuffey's niece didn't get a ticket for a 2007 crash because of the sticker. [TU]

(there's more)

Special election vote totals shifting, Morris says Albany treasurer lied, arrest in Barnes assault, Shen coach suspended after old accusations come to light, state budget leading to Saratoga paid parking?

The vote totals for the 20th Congressional District special election keep shifting as voting machines and emergency ballots are "re-canvassed." What appears to be the latest tally has Jim Tedisco now ahead of Scott Murphy by 12 votes. The election will ultimately be decided by the count of the absentee ballots -- which won't start until Monday at the earliest. Both campaigns continue to express confidence that they'll come out ahead. [Troy Record] [PolitickerNY] [TU]

The Saratogian reports that Jim Tedisco will be stepping down as state Assembly minority leader on Monday so he "can focus on this congressional district." The TU reports that Tedisco is facing a no-confidence vote on Monday because members of his caucus are annoyed that he's spent so much time on his Congressional campaign during the state budget process. [Saratogian] [TU]

The state Senate has continued its debate of the budget bills, though a vote could be coming soon. The Senate voted to allow Democratic Senator Ruth Hassell-Thompson, who's been in and out of the hospital with pneumonia, to vote "yes" on all the budget bills ahead of time. The majority Dems didn't have enough votes to pass the bills without Hassell-Thompson. [TU]

Albany Common Council president Shawn Morris says she thinks city treasurer Betty Barnette "flat-out lied" when Barnette testified earlier this week that her office doesn't "fix" parking tickets. The Common Council is now seeking copies of every parking ticket dismissed in 2008. [TU]

Guilderland police have arrested a mixed-martial arts fighter for the assault of the TU's Steve Barnes and a friend last year in the parking lot outside Creo. According to the TU, the police are investigating "connections" between the fighter and an unnamed Albany restaurant that Barnes wrote about. [TU]

(there's more)

State budget voting held up, Murphy's lead down to 25 votes, TPD split over whether RPI student was murdered, bathtub full of drugs allegedly found in doctor's home

Voting on the state budget bills hit a snag yesterday when Democratic Senator Ruth Hassell-Thompson had to return to the hospital because of pneumonia (the Dems need her vote for the required 32 "yes" votes). The Assembly finished passing all the budget bills yesterday morning -- though a handful of Democrats, most of them from upstate, voted "no." State comptroller Tom DiNapoli, also a Democrat, publicly criticized the budget for relying too much on federal stimulus and other temporary money. [TU] [AP/Saratogian] [NYT] [Biz Review]

There still seems to be a lot that's unknown about the 8,900 state worker layoffs David Paterson has ordered. [Saratogian]

Scott Murphy now leads Jim Tedisco by just 25 votes in the 20th Congressional District special election after a re-check of some voting machines. Counting of absentee ballots won't be begin until Monday at the earliest -- Republican hold an enrollment edge in the pool of absentee ballots. About 165,000 people voted in Tuesday's election, the largest turnout in a US special election in two decades according to a Skidmore prof. Both campaigns are saying publicly that they'll come out on top. [Daily Gazette] [Saratogian] [Post-Star] [TU]

Albany Common Councilman -- and mayoral candidate -- Corey Ellis has called for the council to issue subpoenas as part of its ghost ticket investigation. [CapNews9]

(there's more)

Special election not over yet, state budget hits snags, doubts about Tuffey's ghost ticket testimony, CDTA fare hike takes effect, milk spilled in Troy

The special election in the 20th Congressional District isn't over. Initial tallies indicate that Scott Murphy leads Jim Tedisco by as few as 59 votes and as many as 65 votes. Here's a county-by-county breakdown of the totals. There are about 6000 absentee ballots that need to be counted -- they've been impounded and won't be counted until Monday at the earliest. As you might expect, both campaigns think they'll come out ahead in the final count. There are some indications the parties are already gearing up for a Coleman-Franken-like recount. [TU] [Daily Politics] [WNYT] [TU] [Daily Gazette] [Post-Star] [Saratogian] [Daily Politics]

Voters told reporters the top issue in the race was, surprise: the economy (great quote about Tedisco: "He's like a little bulldog."). There was a little bit of drama for voters on the Skidmore campus. And apparently some people in Schenectady showed up at the polls looking to vote -- except that Schenectady's not in the 20th (for what it's worth, Tedisco wasn't able to vote either). Many voters said they're just happy the TV ads, polling and robocalls are over. [Post-Star] [TU] [TU] [Saratogian]

The state budget isn't wrapped up yet (the official deadline was midnight last night) -- in part because Republican Senators, upset about the budget, stalled for a while yesterday and a Democratic Senator had to be taken to the hospital. [TU] [Daily Politics]

Three state Senators, including Neil Breslin, have asked David Paterson to meet with the state worker unions about the layoffs Paterson says are on the way. [Biz Review]

Still stung by the cut to Saratoga County's VLT aid, political leaders there seem to be missing Joe Bruno. [TU]

(there's more)

Unemployment rate continues to rise, state budget deals, another into the Albany mayoral pool, mom accused of helping daughter fight, excused for Jumpin' Jacks

The Capital Region's unemployment rate hit 7.6 percent in February, according to the state Department of Labor. (The overall state rate was 7.8 percent.) That's up half a point from the month before and 2.1 points compared to the same month last year. A labor department analyst says the rate is probably the highest it's been since the early 80s. The region's job losses appear to be hitting people without college educations and easy access to transportation the hardest. [AP/Saratogian] [Daily Gazette] [TU] [TU]

The state's Three Men in a Room have a reportedly reached an agreement to raise taxes on households with incomes of $300,000 and up. It also appears that wine sales in supermarkets won't be approved. But who knows -- all the negotiations are going on in secret. The Three Men apparently want the budget bills printed this weekend so they can be voted on before the budget deadline Tuesday night. [TU] [NYT] [NYDN]

The former head of a state-funded institute who was convicted of ripping that state off for more $100,000 was sentenced to house arrest and probation. [TU]

Schenectady County leaders balked at Schenectady mayor Brian Stratton's proposal to dissolve the city's troubled police force and form a new countywide department. The chair of the county legislature said the city needs to do a better job disciplining its officers. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

Stratton talks with Cuomo about getting rid of police force, father charged after whupping, Sundwall off the ballot, CDTA packs 'em in

Brian Stratton met with Andrew Cuomo on Tuesday about the idea of dissolving the Schenectady's troubled police force. Stratton says the AG "wants to help in every way possible." He says one of the options they discussed was the creation of a countywide police force. (Cuomo has lately been pushing for municipalities to consolidate services.) [TU] [Daily Gazette] [Fox23]

The Albany police detective accused of driving drunk through Albany and Bethlehem in January has been indicted on charges of drunken driving and reckless driving. [TU]

Albany schools superintendent Eva Joseph announced yesterday that she's retiring -- she had more than a year left on her contract. [TU]

Albany's city treasurer, Betty Barnette, says the common council's investigation of the ghost ticket scandal is a "witch hunt." Barnette is scheduled to testify before the council next week. [TU]

A Schenectady father has been charged with felony assault after he, in his own words, "whupped" his serially misbehaving 13-year-old son. The father says he "tried the Dr. Phil method," but when that didn't work he "flashed back to old school." [Daily Gazette]

The Three Men in the Room have a reportedly reached an agreement on reform of the Rockefeller Drug Laws. The new laws would give judges the authority to send first time offenders to treatment instead of jail. [NYT]

(there's more)

State worker layoffs planned as budget gap grows, Tedisco-Murphy debate, Wellington demolition begins, converting ounces to grams

There were two (gulp!) developments yesterday regarding the state budget. First, state leaders announced the projected budget gap for the next fiscal year is now $16.2 billion -- $2 billion more than earlier projections. And then the Paterson administration announced it plans to cut nearly 9,000 state jobs in an effort to save almost $500 million over two years. [TU] [TU]

A state Inspector General's investigation has concluded that a group of Pataki political appointees in the state Department of Taxation and Finance got themselves into protected civil service jobs by tailoring tests and job requirements specially for their own resumes. [TU]

Andrew Cuomo says he's planning to run for re-election as state Attorney General next year -- not governor. "I'm very happy being the attorney general," Cuomo told the crowd last night at a public forum in Schenectady. [Daily Gazette] [TU]

Jim Tedisco and Scott Murphy argued about the definition of pork during their debate last night (full video). (Debate analysis from Bob Conner at Planet Albany.) Earlier in the day they were talking up voters in Saratoga County. And in an email that went out this morning, Barack Obama endorsed Murphy. [TU] [WNYT] [Saratogian] [HuffPo]

(there's more)

Martial law for Schenectady?

zombie police of schenectadySchenectady city officials have been talking about just getting rid of the whole police department and starting over. (You know, to take care of the zombie problem.) But what to do in the interim?

Mayor Brian Stratton recently told Capital News 9 that calling in the National Guard and declaring martial law is an option. As you might imagine, that idea set off a few bells for people -- especially people who are concerned about government conspiracies and the "police state."

(there's more)

Siena leaves its mark on the NCAA tournament, Morris calls for more community policing, stabbing in Ballston Spa, baracking

Siena put up a good fight against #1 seed Louisville in the second round of the NCAA tournament, but ultimately lost 79-72. After trailing at halftime by five, the Saints took the lead a little more than 10 minutes into the second half and held it until about four minute mark. [TU] [ESPN]

The org that runs New York's electricity market says an arrangement in which buyers of electricity pay more than the lowest bid is a feature, not a bug. [TU]

A study sponsored by a free market academic center concludes that New York State has the lowest level of personal and economic freedom in the country. [TU]

A 2005 report about then-state Senate minority leader David Paterson's office describes an operation with problems very similar to those exhibited during Paterson's first year as governor: chaos, indecisiveness and jumbled communication. [NYDN]

Albany Common Council president -- and mayoral candidate -- Shawn Morris says the APD has shifted its focus away from community policing -- and that's contributed to a recent surge in crime. [TU]

Forty percent of children in Albany County live in poverty -- as do 25 percent of people in Schenectady -- according to a report out from an advocacy org. [Daily Gazette]

The manager of the TU Center says he'd like to see mixed martial arts fighting legalized in New York State. He estimates ultimate fighting could sell out the arena and generate $1 million to $2 million in economic activity. [Daily Gazette]

After two of the three finalists for the job of UAlbany president dropped out, a source tells the TU the search will likely be reopened. UAlbany has been looking for a new president for more than two years. [TU]

(there's more)

Former state advisers charged with taking kickbacks, string of robberies in Albany, mother accused of knocking kids off car, the word is "geogenous"

Two advisers to former state comptroller Alan Hevesi were indicted yesterday on charges that they received millions of dollars in kickbacks for directing state pension funds to various investment companies. State AG Andrew Cuomo said the case was one of the "grossest examples of pay to play." [NYT] [TU]

Sheldon Silver says The Three Men in the Room will take budget negotiations to public conference committees "if we have differences." Of course, it could be hard to know if there are differences because all the details are being worked out behind closed doors. [TU]

Albany police say there's been a string of robberies or attempted robberies over the last week. The latest: two teens have been charged with sticking up a St. Rose student and ripping off his iPod. [Fox 23]

Regardless of whether state school aid is restored, it looks like there will be job cuts in the Schenectady School District. The worst-case scenario includes the elimination of the athletic program. [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

Feds recommend smaller landfill expansion, advocates say budget process too opaque, unions upset about chip fab jobs, bank robber injures teller, call it a reverto

Two federal agencies are urging the Army Corps of Engineers to scale back the proposed expansion of Albany's landfill. The recommended smaller addition would only add 2.5 years worth of capacity to the dump. It's projected that the landfill will be full by the end of this year. [TU]

Good government groups say this year's state budget process is one of the most opaque since the 1980s. [TU]

Behind those closed doors, leaders are trying to cover a $14 billion budget gap -- and new taxes on households making more than $250,000 is apparently on the table. Opponents of the new tax have argued that the higher taxes will cause rich people to flee the state, but a demographer from Princeton says there's little evidence that would actually happen. [NYT]

A survey of CEOs ranks New York among the worst states in which to do business. Among the reasons: high taxes. [Biz Review]

Schenectady's bid to fire some of its cops could end up being very expensive -- the city's had to hire outside counsel to pursue the termination cases. Mayor Brian Stratton says the city has now added a sixth officer to the list. [Daily Gazette]

The Schenectady School Board has accepted the retirement of Steven Raucci, the district employee accused of arson and terrorism. The board's president said firing Raucci was not an option. [Daily Gazette] [TU]

(there's more)

Special election candidates fight over what's pork, SPAC director's salary in spotlight, man accused of threatening garbagmen with cleaver, new job for McNulty

The two major party candidates for the 20th Congressional District, Jim Tedisco and Scott Murphy, went back and forth at each other yesterday over the federal stimulus bill. The super condensed version -- Tedisco: it's pork; Murphy: no, it's not. Tedisco, who said this week that he would not have voted for the stimulus bill, also said he would have voted for it -- if he could have amended it. [CapNews9] [Troy Record]

Schenectady mayor Brian Stratton says he wants to fire five of the city's cops. The city hasn't successfully fired a cop since 1982. [Daily Gazette]

Organizers of the Dalai Lama's visit to Albany say the event will "change the face of Albany if the population of Albany embraces it and gets excited about and really understands the fortitude of something like this coming to this city..." The organizers of the visit are connected to a Clifton Park management training program that's been accused of being a cult. [TU]

Steven Raucci, the Schenectady School District employee accused of arson and terrorism, has filed an application for retirement. He's currently on suspension without pay. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

The salary for Marcia White, SPAC's executive director, is catching criticism after a survey revealed that the leaders of other local arts organization make much less. White was paid $244,865 in 2006. [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

Soares says crime will increase, man accused of killing son, woman says no one would call for help, Center Square parking garage sold, dead fish are stinky

Albany County DA David Soares says the number of crimes will rise as the economic downturn continues. There's been a rash of shootings, assaults and robberies lately in the City of Albany. [Daily Gazette] [TU]

A Coeymans man has been charged with the murder of his teenage son. Police say the man shot his son late Sunday night. The man's attorney says his client came home and found his son already dead. [TU] [Fox23]

Officials from AMD and GlobalFoundries say they're not too worried about Intel's threat to cancel a key technology sharing agreement. A spokesman for GloFo says the news "changes nothing." [TU] [Post-Star]

The design for the expansion of the Saratoga City Center was unveiled yesterday -- it changes the look of the building considerably. The expansion will increase the convention center's square footage by more than 40 percent. The project is expected to start in late Spring and take 14 months to complete. [Post-Star] [Saratogian] [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

The economy sucks, shooting in Pine Hills, garbage threatens to topple Schenectady hill, RPI officials in Africa

This just in: the economy really sucks at this moment. [TU] [TU] [Daily Gazette] [Daily Gazette] [Saratogian] [Saratogian] [SRI]

State Senate Democrats are reportedly willing to support raising taxes on households making more than $250,000 as a way to cover the budget gap (they also apparently support an increase in the sales tax). There's already support for the measure in the Assembly. David Paterson has said such move should be a last resort. [NYT]

An Albany man has been charged with the murder of the man found dead in an abandoned Albany building in February (the city's first homicide of the year). Police say the suspect shot the man in a parked car on Lark Street and then dumped the body. Police say the suspect denies being involved, instead saying that he was smoking pot in Troy with a random woman he met that day. [Daily Gazette] [Troy Record] [TU]

More violence in Albany's Pine Hills neighborhood: police say a woman was shot in the arm outside the Playdium bowling alley early Saturday morning (map). Police say the woman told them her sons know the shooters. There was also a reported mugging at the corner of South Main and Myrtle this weekend (map).[Troy Record] [CapNews9] [TU]

The number of bridges in New York State that have been "red-flagged" has more than quadrupled between 2002 and 2007, according to a report from the state Department of Transportation. [TU]

(there's more)

Household Saints at Our Lady of Grace Gift Shop

Household Saints.jpg

Household Saints. Hey, you never know.

By Amy Brozio-Andrews

Because you wouldn't want your Glitter Jesus to get lonely, would you?

Okay, so maybe hearing all the terrible news about the economy has got you thinking you need a little extra help. You can have your very own box of household saints, complete with three figurines (St. Joseph, St. Clare, and St. Jude) and a book with almost two dozen saints with household-related patronages to plead your case to.


What can they do for you? I'm glad you asked.

(there's more)

Paterson says stimulus money will prevent soda and iTunes tax, salt water may have caused manhole explosions, police say guy had pot farm in attic, Troy corned beef factory closes

David Paterson says federal stimulus money will cover the budget hole that was to be filled by new taxes on items such as soda and digital downloads. Of course, now that money won't be able to cover other holes -- and it appears chances are now greater that there will be new taxes on households making at least $250,000. [TU] [AP/Daily Gazette]

The Schenectady School District superintendent says district officials never knew about a letter Steven Raucci, the district employee charged with arson and terrorism, allegedly sent to an employee urging her to be "attractive, sensitive and classy with a touch of sexiness." A lawsuit by a former district employee alleges that Raucci was a friend of the district's HR director. The city's board of education will meet tonight to talk about Raucci's future with the district. [TU] [Daily Gazette] [Daily Gazette]

National Grid says salt water runoff may have corroded the underground transmission lines that caught fire this week in Albany. [TU]

According to the NYCLU, three Albany neighborhoods with six percent of the city's population accounted for 25 percent of the adults sent to prison in 2005 -- and almost half of those people were convicted on drug crimes. The org was publicizing the data to protest the Rockefeller Drug Laws. [TU] [TU] [NYCLU]

(there's more)

Almond Joy French Toast at Mike's Diner

Almond Joy French Toast.jpg

Almond Joy french toast. Sure, it's photogenic-- but how does it taste.

By Amy Brozio-Andrews

You know how, when something sounds too good to be true, you almost don't even want to try it? You just know it probably is too good to be true. And really, why set yourself up for disappointment.

That's how I felt when I heard about the almond joy french toast at Mike's Diner on Carman Road in Schenectady.

I mean, French toast + candy couldn't possibly be as good as it sounds.

But I tried it anyway.

(there's more)

State tax refunds a little slow this year, number of prostitution arrests up, accused horse stabber offered plea deal, clerk pleads guilty to ripping off city, there's a new Miss Limerick

The state Department of Taxation and Finance says state tax refunds have been a little slower to go out this year because it's screening refunds more carefully. [TU]

A deal between David Paterson and the leaders of the legislature is reportedly in the works that would kill the proposed taxes on soda, digital downloads and a bunch of other "fun" transactions. [Daily Politics]

The company that said it would run the racino at Aqueduct has told the state it now can't get financing to pay the contract fee. That means less revenue for the state -- and for less money for NYRA, which uses racino money to prop up racing at Saratoga and the state's other tracks. [NYT] [Saratogian]

Two unnamed sources tell the TU that an Albany police sergeant told Bethlehem cops to back off an APD detective the night the detective is accused of driving drunk from Albany into Delmar. The sergeant has been suspended, though the reason has been made public. [TU]

Apparently the Capital Region is a "fertile" area for prostitution -- and, in part as a result, arrests are up. [TU]

(there's more)

DA says scratched car prompted bombing, new rail plan for state, Siena's going to the NCAA Tournament, Breslin warns of budget deficit, big plans for Troy Proctors

A Schenectady County judge denied bail yesterday for Steven Raucci, the school district employee accused of arson and terrorism. In arguing against bail, the Schenectady DA said Raucci bombed a person's car after the man scratched Raucci's car in a parking lot. The DA says Raucci has continued to make threats since being taken into custody. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

Underground explosions blasted four manhole covers off the ground yesterday afternoon in downtown Albany. National Grid says burning cables may have caused a build up of gases. Power near the site of the explosions will be shut off as investigators try to figure out what happened. [AOA] [TU] [CapNews9]

David Paterson and seemingly every other upstate elected official were at the Rensselaer train station yesterday to announce a new state rail plan. State officials hope the plan will increase New York's chances of scoring federal stimulus money for rail projects. As part of the plan, officials would like to spend $3 billion on somewhat higher speed rail service throughout the state. [TU] [AP/Troy Record] [Daily Gazette]

As David Paterson announced that he's freezing the pay of some 160 of aides, it came out that he just re-hired his recently fired top aide for $170,000. [Newsday] [NY Post]

The Albany Common Council chose not to issue subpoenas last night after the heads of the unions that represent Albany police officers chose not to testify under oath as part of the investigation in the ghost ticket scandal. The council has gotten 5,000 documents from the APD as part of the investigation. [TU] [CapNews9] [Fox23]

The Siena men's basketball team is going to the NCAA tournament. The Saints beat Niagara 77-70 last night in the MAAC Tournament final. Kenny Hasbrouck, playing with an injured calf, led Siena with 19 points. The tournament set a conference record for attendance, drawing almost 51,000. [Daily Gazette] [Troy Record]

(there's more)

One Schenectady suicide reportedly prompted chain of attempts, Morris officially in the pool for Albany mayor, parents sue bars for $12 million, UAlbany student robbed at gunpoint

The suicide of a 17-year-old in Schenectady last fall appears to have started a chain reaction of five other suicide attempts -- two of which led to deaths. All five of the teens who subsequently attempted suicide apparently used the same method as the first teen. [Daily Gazette]

The heads of both the Albany Police Officers Union and the union's parent organization say they will not testify under oath about the ghost ticket scandal at tonight's meeting of the Albany Common Council. That may lead the council to take the unusual step of issuing a subpoena to the APOU's president. [TU]

Albany Common Council President Shawn Morris officially announced on Sunday that she's running for mayor. Morris says she wants to "open up City Hall to the people who own it." Morris has served on the council for 15 years. [Fox23] [TU] [CapNews9]

Rumors have apparently been circulating that Schenectady officials are talking about dissolving the city's troubled police force. After a Schenectady police sergeant reportedly left work during a shift to go to the dentist this past week, mayor Brian Stratton says he personally told two shifts of SPD officers that it was time to get their act together. [TU]

(there's more)

Timmons gets maximum sentence, Westboro protesters in town, APD fires a cop, national experts to assess Schenectady High suicides, lucky shot was insured

Jermayne Timmons, the teen convicted of firing the shot that killed Kathina Thomas, got the maximum sentence today -- 15 years to life. [TU]

Five members of the Westboro Baptist Church showed up this morning at Albany High School to publicize the church's anti-gay message. A counter protest of 300 people was also there. Rev. Charlie Muller, one of the counter-protesters, told Capital News 9 he was there to make the point that "Jesus never hated -- he loved." [TU] [CapNews9]

The head of the State Insurance Fund resigned yesterday, reportedly after the Times Union told him it was preparing a story about why his compensation ($185,400) was way higher than the level set by law ($120,800). The state inspector general this week announced that the agency is under investigation because of a whistleblower's accusation that the org had become have for political patronage. (Earlier on AOA: The $94,000 secretary.)

State Senate Republicans have proposed an alternative budget to David Paterson's plan. The Republicans' plan leans heavily on using federal stimulus money to cover the budget gap -- and doesn't include many of the tax and fee increases in the Paterson budget. [TU]

David Paterson said yesterday he will in fact take a 10 percent pay cut -- but he won't ask anyone else in state government to do so. Ten percent of Paterson's salary is $17,9000. [AP/CapNews9]

The attorney for Steven Raucci, who's now been charged with crimes in three different counties, says he will argue on Monday that his client should be allowed to go free on bail. Local law enforcement authorities have kept Raucci in jail by charging his serially on counts including arson, criminal mischief and terrorism. The Gazette found out via FOIL this week that Raucci made $129,364 with the Schenectady School District last year. [Daily Gazette] [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

Chip fab company says it's committed, Paterson says he'd take a pay cut, DA says frozen man may have overdosed, Albany High to be delayed for protest

While the paperwork hasn't all gone through, officials from GlobalFoundries -- the new AMD spinoff -- say they are committed to building the new chip fab at Luther Forest. "I don't know how much more formal of a commitment we can make," said the new company's president. GlobalFoundries says it expects to be turning out chips at full capacity by 2012. [Daily Gazette] [Post-Star] [TU]

David Paterson told a crowd in Buffalo yesterday that he would consider taking a 10 percent pay cut -- and he said he doesn't think a similar cut for the Legislature is a bad idea. Paterson also reiterated his support for a high-speed rail connection between Buffalo and Albany. (Earlier on AOA: High-speed rail? Maybe not so fast.) [Buffalo News]

Competition for federal stimulus money is fierce at the state Capitol as the team led by New York's stimulus czar -- AKA Captain Asphalt -- sifts through more than 7,500 projects. Local officials have proposed almost $42 billion in stimulus-funded projects -- the state has been given $4 billion. [NYT]

A bill that would reform the Rockefeller Drug Laws was passed by the state Assembly yesterday. Such reforms have been passed many times by the Assembly, but always died in the Senate. But now that Democrats control both chambers, the odds of passage seem higher -- though it's far from a done deal. [TU] [NYT]

A bunch of downstate Democrats are lining up for a potential primary challenge to Kirsten Gillibrand in 2010. [NYT]

RPI President Shirley Jackson announced yesterday that she will be taking a five percent pay cut. [AOA]

(there's more)

Tedisco and Murphy debate, Raucci charged with terrorism, Schenectady school district struggles with teen suicides, chip fab company gets new name, UAlbany student sues Facebook

Jim Tedisco and Scott Murphy found a lot to agree about during their debate yesterday in Saratoga Springs. One point of departure: the federal stimulus bill, which Murphy said he supports and Tedisco said had enough pork to "create trichinosis for most of us in this room." They also disagreed on union "card check" -- Murphy supports it, Tedisco doesn't. The debate drew an overflow crowd of more than 250 people to the Saratoga Springs Public Library. [Daily Gazette] [Post-Star] [Saratogian] [TU]

Police say a woman walking her dogs in Spa State Park yesterday morning found a partially frozen body (it seems her dog was the first to find it in the tree line). There are conflicting reports on whether authorities consider the situation suspicious -- "unusual" seems to be the word being used. The man was found fully clothed and dressed for winter. Witnesses says the body was covered in vomit. An autopsy is scheduled for today. [Saratogian] [Fox 23] [Post-Star] [Daily Gazette] [TU]

Steven Raucci, the Schenectady school district employee accused of arson, was charged with terrorism yesterday -- the state's highest felony. Officials say they've been filing charges against Raucci sequentially so they can keep him in jail. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

The state's inspector general has ordered an investigation of the State Insurance Fund because of accusations of mismanagement by a whistleblower. The whistleblower came forward after the story of the guy making $94k/year to do nothing came to light in the TU. Noted: John Sweeney's first wife, Elizabeth, works at the Insurance Fund as a secretary and makes $94,000 a year. [TU] [SeeThroughNY]

(there's more)

Zombie Police of Schenectady

zombie police of schenectady

They're coming to a theater near you -- to eat your brains.

After seeing the picture that went along with this story, we couldn't resist.

Debate today for special Congressional race, man charged with Troy murder, bankruptcy filings up, Luther Forest spinoff company a done deal

The latest from the very special election to fill Kirsten Gillibrand's former House seat: Jim Tedisco and Scott Murphy will debate today at the Saratoga Springs Public Library at 1:30 pm. Yesterday, Rudy Giuliani campaigned with Jim Tedisco in Dutchess County. And Scott Murphy was endorsed by the AFL-CIO. [CapNews9] [Fox23] [Saratogian]

Albany Common Councilman Corey Ellis officially announced that he's running for mayor yesterday. Here's his web site.

Joe Bruno was taken to the hospital yesterday after he was involved in a car wreck on Rt. 7 in Colonie. A spokesman for Bruno says an oncoming car jumped the median and hit Bruno's car. The spokesman says Bruno is sore and slightly bruised, but otherwise OK. [TU] [Troy Record]

A Schenectady cop was arraigned yesterday in Colonie on charges of DWI and leaving the scene of an accident. The Schenectady police chief says the officer has been suspended 30 days without pay. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

Winter storm will mostly miss us, Ellis to run for Albany mayor, Porco's lawyers appealing conviction, alternate side parking grace period proposed, Saratoga Rec Center saga continues, Siro's for sale

It looks like the storm moving up the East Coast today will mostly miss us here in the Capital Region. Snow accumulation is projected to top out at around 4 inches, but it will be cold -- with temps around 20. Noted: March is still winter. [NWS] [TU]

The Saratoga County DA says terrorism charges are being prepared in Schenectady County against Steven Raucci, the Schenectady School District employee accused of arson. [Daily Gazette]

Albany Common Councilman Corey Ellis is expected to announce today that he's running for mayor. Council president Shawn Morris is also expected to announce soon that she's officially in the running. [Facebook event page] [TU]

Scott Murphy will be on the Independence Party line for the upcoming special election to fill Kirsten Gillibrand's old House seat -- the first time a Democrat has been on the line in the district. In other Murphy news: he says he's good at simple arithmetic. And in case you hadn't heard: his wife has a bid family. [Daily Politics] [Post-Star] [Post-Star]

Jim Tedisco, Murphy's opponent in the special election, says it shouldn't matter that he doesn't actually live in the Congressional district that he wants to represent. [AP/TU]

The man who police say threatened them with a knife at the scene of the murder in Troy last week has previously served time on assault and unlawful imprisonment charges -- as of Friday he still wasn't officially tagged as a suspect, though. Troy police have called in the State Police to help out with forensics at the "gruesome" murder scene. [TU] [Troy Record]

Christopher Porco's attorneys have filed an appeal seeking to overturn his conviction. The appeal focuses on the nod that police say his mother gave when asked if he had been involved in the attack. Porco is currently serving 46 years to life in prison. [TU]

(there's more)

Towns sue EPA over dredging, stimulus money headed for local schools, comptroller takes up ghost ticket investigation, big hospital merger, home prices down

A handful of municipalities in Saratoga County -- including the county itself -- have sued to stop the EPA's Hudson River dredging project. The governments argue the feds have not adequately guaranteed people in the county will have a safe supply of drinking water during the project, which is scheduled to start in May. State senator Roy McDonald told a meeting last night that the EPA is "taking advantage of us" and said people should tell the feds to "go to hell." [TU] [Daily Gazette] [Post-Star]

Chuck Schumer says about $50 million in aid for schools is headed to the Capital Region from the federal stimulus bill. The Albany ($6.3 million) and Schenectady ($4.8 million) school districts are getting the biggest chunks of that money. Schumer also says $3 billion is on its way to help New York State cover planned cuts in aid from the state to local schools. [TU] [Daily Gazette] [Daily Gazette]

David Paterson has replaced many of his top advisors. On his new communications director's resume: experience with "strategic and crisis communications work." [NYT] [TU]

The state comptroller has informed the City of Albany that his office will be conducting an audit of the city's "ghost ticket" system. [TU]

(there's more)

Paterson aide: staff is a disaster, Albany County moves toward texting while driving ban, teacher accused of selling pot, modern dance at SPAC

With poll numbers sliding, David Paterson says he will be addressing "structural problems" on his staff. A "a source close to the governor's staff" tells the TU that Paterson's office is currently a "disaster." Adds an ex-aide: "Under David there was a 'Lord of the Flies' environment where you claim your territory and hold on to it." [AOA] [TU]

The state's leader all agree: the budget gap could top $14 billion. [Biz Review]

Yesterday during the course of a trial for an unrelated case, an Albany police officer testified that he had bought one of the infamous (and illegal) APD machine guns from the head of the Albany Police Officer's Union. [TU]

Albany police say they've id'ed the body found in an abandoned building on Broadway this past weekend as Ruel Torak of Schenectady. Police are treating the case as a homicide -- they say they're not sure if Torak was murdered at the location or taken there afterward. [TU] [Troy Record]

Steven Raucci, the Schenectady School District employee accused of arson and intimidation, was released on bail yesterday -- and then picked by Schodack police on new arson charges related to a separate incident in 2007. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

Facing down the "doomsday budget," sometimes-cop says no one wants his job, Morris says she's running for Albany mayor, police say woman went on rampage

At a meeting yesterday between state legislators and economists, the coming fiscal year's budget gap was projected to be as high as $14 billion. One senator said the state was facing a "doomsday budget." [TU]

The reconstruction of Delaware and Madison Ave in Albany will be one of the first projects in the state to proceed with federal stimulus money. A pedestrian described the pavement and sidewalks at that intersection as "awful." [TU Cap Con] [Fox23]

Stephen Raucci, the Schenectady School District employee accused of arson and intimidation, has been suspended with pay. Superintendent Eric Ely says he never witnessed out-of-bounds behavior from Raucci, but a former subordinate alleges in a lawsuit that Raucci created a hostile work environment. Raucci's father pleaded guilty to attempted murder and manslaughter after the death of his wife and 6-year-old son in 1986. [Daily Gazette] [TU]

The Schenectady police lieutenant who worked all of 12 days last year for the department -- at 2 1/2 times pay -- because of his union duties says his job is "terrible" and no one wants it. Schenectady mayor Brian Stratton says the lieutenant's assertion that he's been spending all that time on union business is "crazy." [Daily Gazette]

Schenectady police chief Mark Chaires said yesterday that some officers will be fired because of the absent-officer scandal. [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

School district employee accused of arson and intimidation, first homicide of 2009 in Albany, crowds gets testy at "super" sale, looking for council candidates on Craigslist

The Schenectady County DA says investigators think a Schenectady school district employee engaged in "systematic acts of intimidation" -- including arson -- against people who had "crossed" him. The man has been charged with arson for blowing the door off a Rotterdam home in 2001. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

A body was found in an abandoned building on Broadway in Albany over the weekend. The APD says it's treating the case as the city's first homicide of 2009. [TU] [Fox23]

The president of the Schenectady police union only worked for the city 13 days last year -- yet the city paid him $129,908. Mayor Brian Stratton says the arrangement is "crazy." [TU]

A stun gun, tucked in a stroller, made it through the security checkpoint at ALB a week ago. A gate worker found the stun gun as he was putting the stroller into the baggage hold. [TU]

David Paterson and his entourage charged the state more than $23,000 for their trip to the inaugural. [TU]

(there's more)

Pataki to take on Gillibrand?, Albany council pursuing ghost ticket scandal, Troy could be among first for stimulus money, cable bills going up, crustacean capers hot right now

George PatakiThe head of the National Republican Senatorial Committee has reportedly approached George Pataki about running against Kirsten Gillibrand in 2010. [AP/Troy Record]

State Democrats "familiar" with the situation say David Paterson is considering the return of Charles O'Byrne, who was his top advisor until O'Byrne resigned over tax problems. Paterson is reportedly frustrated by accusations that his administration is coming apart. [NYT] [NYP]

The Albany Common Council has scheduled sworn testimony in March from police department and union officials about the ghost ticket scandal. Officers called to testify will have to be paid three hours of overtime if the hearing doesn't occur during their regular shift. [TU]

The Schenectady police officer accused of being serially absent from patrol has been suspended without pay for a month. The officer topped the department's pay list last year after racking up enormous amounts of overtime. [Daily Gazette] [TU]

One of the Albany River Rats says "guys were flying around like ping-pong balls" as the team bus rolled over on the Mass Pike during its crash early Thursday morning. Four players and one of the team's broadcasters were hospitalized overnight. A spokesman for Yankee Trails, the company that owned the bus, says the driver at the wheel yesterday is an "exceptional" operator. Mass state police are investigating the cause of the crash -- ice appears to be the leading candidate. The Rats' game scheduled for tonight has been postponed. [TU] [Daily Gazette] [TU] [Troy Record]

(there's more)

Planning for stimulus funds, River Rats bus flips on Mass Turnpike, restaurants cutting prices, no Whitney Gala this year

Dr Strangelove war room

Sadly, the state's war room doesn't look like this. Remember: you can't fight in the war room.

The Paterson Administration has set up a "war room" to coordinate the state's administration of the roughly $25 billion in federal stimulus money headed this way. [TU]

Buried among the list of new taxes and fees in the Paterson budget proposal: a $10 fee for filing your state tax return on paper. More than 40 percent of state tax returns in New York State were filed on paper last year. [TU]

The Capital District Transportation Committee has put together a list of local infrastructure projects that should qualify for stimulus funding -- a group that totals about $87 million. Among the projects on the list: the reconstruction of Delaware Ave in Albany and the replacement of the Bridge Street bridge in Cohoes. [TU]

Three people from the Albany River Rats were seriously injured this morning after the team bus rolled over on the Mass Turnpike. The team was returning from a game in Lowell. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

From the very special election to fill Kirsten Gillibrand's old House seat... Republicans are criticizing Scott Murphy for not voting in eight primary and general elections between 2000 and 2003. And Jim Tedisco participated in a "tele town hall meeting" yesterday -- basically, the campaign robo-called 30,000 people and told them if they held on, Tedisco would speak and answer questions live. The campaign says it had as many as 6,000 people on the line at one point. [Daily Gazette] [Daily Gazette] [CapNews9]

Top Schenectady city officials are demanding to know how the cop accused of serially spending hours in an apartment when he was supposed to be on patrol could have gotten away with it. This latest scandal is just the latest in a long list of Schenectady Police Department screw-ups. [Daily Gazette] [TU]

(there's more)

Cities line up infrastructure projects, Schenectady cop suspected of catching Zzzz instead of crooks, Saratoga rec center project moves forward, delivery driver plows into strip mall

Local leaders say much of the federal stimulus money headed this way will be spent on infrastructure projects. Troy mayor Harry Tutunjian noted that much of the infrastructure in his city is 120-years-old. [Troy Record] [Saratogian] [TU]

The Daily Gazette reports that Schenectady's highest-paid police officer has been spending a chunk of each Tuesday's shift inside an apartment, possibly sleeping. The Gazette's observation was confirmed by department records from the GPS unit in the cop's car. Said Schenectady's police chief: "How dumb can you be? You know you have a GPS in your car. Why would anybody do that?" The officer in question made $168,921 last year -- that's about triple his base salary -- because of enormous amounts of overtime. [Daily Gazette] [TU]

An Albany police sergeant has been suspended pending the investigation into the possibly delayed arrest of an APD detective who allegedly had been driving while intoxicated. [TU]

The plane that crashed last week in Buffalo had been in Albany the day before. A witness says he saw a crew performing an engine test on the plane as it sat at the gate at ALB. [TU]

(there's more)

Here comes the stimulus money, APD says Bailey case isn't cold, jailhouse marriages, TV station's parent company files for bankruptcy, the flamingos are back

New York State is in line to get almost $25 billion in federal stimulus money, according to an analysis by the state. Among the many projects that could get funding in the state: high speed rail service from Buffalo to NYC. Local municipalities have also been getting their wish lists together. [AP/TU] [Troy Record]

The two candidates in the race for Kirsten Gillibrand's former House seat are in a race to see who can smear the other guy first. The mud boiled down: Jim Tedisco's campaign says Scott Murphy is a light-weight and tax dodger, Murphy's campaign says Tedisco is a career politician who's milked taxpayers for car costs. In a more positive direction, Murphy is hoping to get his wife's large extended family -- many of them Republicans -- to vote for him. And Tedisco is picks up his dogs' poop. Also: Kirsten Gillibrand and Paul Tonko were in Albany over the weekend to endorse Murphy (no, Albany is not in the 20th Congressional district). [TU] [TU] [Daily Gazette] [Daily Gazette] [Troy Record]

The Albany Police Department says the murder of UAlbany student Richard Bailey "is absolutely not a cold case." Bailey's father, a retired NYC cop, says he has faith in the APD's ability to find the murderer. [TU] [TU]

The vast majority of restaurants in Albany County did OK on county health inspections in 2008, according to a Times Union analysis. Among the few that didn't: Tandoor Palace on Lark Street, the Corner Food Court at the corner of Lark and Washington, and the Metro 20 Diner on Western. [TU]

(there's more)

State facing even bigger budget gap, politicians fight over printer, food bank demand up, garbage workers told to take it easy,

A budget analysis from the state Assembly projects that the state's budget gap for the next fiscal year is actually a billion dollars bigger than originally thought. Sheldon Silver says the growing gap increases the need for higher taxes on high-earning households. David Paterson says he's still resistant to the idea. [Biz Review] [NYDN] [TU]

Jonathan Lippman was confirmed yesterday as the new chief judge of the New York Court of Appeals, the state's highest court. Lippman says getting state judges a pay raise will be among his first priorities. Also: he apparently looks a little like Bernie Madoff to some people. [TU] [CapNews9]

A city attorney has told the Albany Common Council that its subpoena powers probably do not allow it to question the head of the police officers' union about the ghost ticket scandal. Councilman Corey Ellis has been pushing for the council to directly investigate the matter. [TU]

The woman police say hit a pedestrian along Western Ave near St. Rose and then drove off was charged yesterday with leaving the scene of an accident. The family of Stanley Brown, the man hit and killed in the accident, says he loved to walk. [Troy Record] [TU]

(there's more)

Help this house: Experience & Creative Designs

Wall-Going .jpg

The paneling had to go.

By Kasa Wahl

A few months ago, after getting sick of looking at a wall full of paneling and our 'blue cloud" carpeting, I decided it was time to remodel.

I'm okay at interior design, if I have a place to start. This space, however, was a design disaster. I had no idea where to begin and no budget for a decorator. Any of this sound familiar?

So I went looking for help and came across Experience and Creative Designs in Schenectady.

(there's more)

Common council pushes for ghost ticket investigation, new SUNY chancellor, pistol whippings in Center Square, official urges shopping and prayer, Brian Stratton hops a horse in Albany

Four members of the Albany common council say they want to pursue a full investigation of the city's "ghost ticket" scandal. Mayor Jerry Jennings says the city is correcting the problem and would rather see the state comptroller handle the audit. [TU] [Fox23]

The SUNY Board of Trustees is expected to name University of Cincinnati president Nancy Zimpher the next SUNY chancellor today. Zimpher has a reputation has a tough, effective leader. She says she'll open her tenure as chancellor by personally visiting all 64 of the SUNY campuses. [Newsday] [TU] [NYT]

In somewhat gubernatorial fashion, New York AG Andrew Cuomo was making the rounds yesterday in Albany to push for consolidation of the state's many and varied local governments. After meeting with the New York Conservative Party, one member said, "I think we've got a kinder, gentler Cuomo with this guy." [TU] [NYP]

The idea of a tax hike on households making $250,000 and up is gaining momentum in the state Legislature. A similar hike was passed last year in the Assembly and a bill will be introduced in the Senate today. [NYT]

(there's more)

Local governments line up stimulus projects, sniping in the Governor's office, DA says 40-year-old case will be hard to prosecute, group trying to raise money for cat's heart surgery

Local governments have quite the wish list lined up for the federal stimulus money that could be on they way. The cities of Albany, Schenectady and Troy combined have more than $600 million of proposed projects. On the list: a new city hall for Troy, money for the Albany convention center, and a new rail line connecting Schenectady and Albany. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

As Kirsten Gillibrand becomes more of a "Democratic team player" in the Senate, constituents around Saratoga say they feel betrayed. [Newsday] [NYT]

The state worker unions have been meeting with the Department of Civil Service to discuss procedures for layoffs. There has been no official word that mass layoffs are in the works. [TU]

The chatter around the Capitol: David Paterson's staff is incompetent, fighting with itself over stuff like office space.

(there's more)

Albany's ghost ticket scandal widens, Tutunjian plans for new city hall, mud flying in Gillibrand replacement race, UAlbany narrows list of potential presidents,

The roster of vehicles eligible for "ghost" parking tickets apparently extends to a "VIP" list of 270 vehicles owned by the government and private citizens. Among those with a park-for-free pass: the head of the Downtown BID, who has previously said that people should expect to pay for parking. Albany police chief James Tuffey says the program has been shut down. [TU] [CBS6]

Nelson Costello, the man accused of murdering David Bacon 40 years ago in Waterford, was indicted yesterday on charges or murder and witness tampering -- he pleaded not guilty at his arraignment. Authorities say Costello and Bacon were involved in a rivalry over Bacon's then-fiancee -- the woman now lives in Schaghticoke. The Saratoga County DA says Costello was arrested last week in Cohoes after crashing a rental car and then trying to cover up the location of the accident. [Daily Gazette] [TU] [Troy Record]

Troy mayor Harry Tutunjian announced during his state of the city address last night that the city would seeking $22 million of federal stimulus money to build a new city hall on the site of the old one. [TU] [Troy Record]

The council meeting after Tutunjian's address turned into a verbal spat as the council argued with Troy deputy mayor Dan Crawley over the implementation of a new landlord registration law. After a council member accused Crawley of not responding to email, Crawley reportedly shouted: "Not from you. Approach me like a man and quit hiding behind your computer." [Troy Record]

(there's more)

Deal closes this year's state budget gap, Waterford site "a significant threat," quadriplegic bookie going to prison, ducks love french fries

A deal to close the $1.6 billion gap in the state's budget for this fiscal year passed both houses of the Legislature last night. The plan makes up the money by trimming a number of items, "sweeping" money from various accounts and raising a tax on health insurers. The current Three Men in a Room (Paterson, Silver, Smith) put the deal together behind closed doors -- and it was voted on by legislators before they had much of a chance to read it. Republican Senate minority leader Dean Skelos criticized the process, "Don't just push us out the door, shut the door and have three Democrats in a room from New York City make a determination on the economic policy of the state." The state still faces a $13 billion gap in next year's budget. [TU] [NYT] [CapNews9] [NYDN]

Both national Republican and Democratic parties are expected to focus on the special election to fill Kirsten Gillibrand's former seat in the House. Jim Tedisco officially began his campaign yesterday with a flurry of basketball metaphors. [Daily Gazette] [Saratogian]

The state Department of Environmental Conservation recently told Waterford that a site in the town "presents a significant threat to the environment and public health." The site, on which an old barrel cleaning business once operated, had been identified as dangerous years ago -- but a miscommunication between the federal EPA and the state DEC led to an 8-year delay in further testing. [Troy Record]

An anonymous source tells the TU there may have been an accomplice involved with the that 40-year-old murder case -- but the statute of limitations on the crime have expired. State police arrested a 62-year-old man last week after a tip re-opened the case last year. As the Saratoga County DA's office prepares for the case, it's been studying old cases because the man would have to be prosecuted under the laws in place four decades ago. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

Arrest in 40-year-old murder case, AMD hopes for June start on fab construction, subpoena debated for "ghost tickets" scandal, buzzer sounds early on Patroons' season

State police have arrested a man for an alleged murder from 40 years ago. Investigators say Nelson Costello murdered David Bacon over a woman. Costello, who most recently has been living in Arizona, was a part-time cop in the Town of Waterford in 1969. Bacon's disappearance had been deemed a missing persons case four decades ago. Officials haven't said what led them to treat the case as a murder, but they say they will probably release details later this week. [Daily Gazette] [TU] [Troy Record]

The state's political leaders are lining up to push for a high-speed rail line connecting cities along the old Erie Canal. [TU]

Former Schenectady police chief Greg Kaczmarek was sentenced to two years in prison yesterday for his involvement with a drug ring. Kaczmarek's wife, Lisa, was also sentenced yesterday -- she got six months. That sentence has drawn criticism for being too light, but Judge Karen Drago told Lisa Kaczmarek, "your culpability with respect to getting illegal drugs on the street was far less than your co-defendants." The busting of the organization has led to convictions for 24 people. [TU] [Daily Gazette] [TU]

AMD says it wants to start clearing the land for the Luther Forest chip fab in March and start construction in June. But first its board has to approve the spin-off of the company that will actually own the fab. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

Dems pick candidate for Gillibrand replacement race, stabbing in downtown Saratoga, RPI involved with Africa education intiative, local sales of YakTrax up

The Democrats have picked Glens Falls venture capitalist Scott Murphy to run in the special election for Kirsten Gillibrand's seat. Murphy emerged as the choice after former TV anchor Tracy Egan and AFL-CIO official Suzy Ballantyne dropped out. The 10 Democratic county chairman made their pick yesterday at the Gateway Diner in Albany (no, that's not in the district) while, apparently, wearing lots of Gillibrand flair. [Daily Gazette] [Troy Record] [TU] [@pattigibbons]

Murphy will face Jim Tedisco in the special election -- and people are already lining up to replace Tedisco should he win. [Saratogian]

Police say a man was stabbed multiple times early Sunday morning at Club 388 on Broadway in downtown Saratoga Springs. The victim was airlifted to Albany Med. Police arrested two men shortly after the incident -- the cops had been on patrol in the area. [CapNews9] [Daily Gazette] [Saratogian]

Saratoga Springs mayor Scott Johnson says the city's council "has already embraced the concept, but not the details" of paid parking downtown. That's not going over well with downtown business owners. [TU]

As David Paterson's public profile has taken a hit (or, hits) over the last few weeks, it appears that Sheldon Silver is controlling the agenda at the Capitol. [AP/Saratogian] [TU]

Joe Bruno, who's under federal indictment, in a recent memo to employees at the consulting firm he now heads: "If there was ever a time to be righteously indignant, that time is now." [TU]

(there's more)

Job openings attracting many applicants, tax trouble for legislators, wig-wearing would-be test taker won't be charged with felony, libel suit against TU dismissed

Local employers say they're seeing a flood of applications for open jobs. [Daily Gazette]

The former state employee who blew the whistle on Antonia Novello says he was framed for speaking out against the former Department of Health commissioner. [TU]

A Schenectady police officer topped the list of the city's highest paid employees last year. His $168,922 in gross salary was a department record. Mayor Brian Stratton's $97,000 ranked him 74th on the highest-paid list. [TU]

It seems that members of the state legislature have trouble paying their taxes. Twenty current members have had "tax warrants" issued for them at some point. [TU]

During the first 12 hours of this most recent snow emergency, 226 cars were towed in the City of Albany. [Fox23]

A jury convicted an Albany woman of conspiring to murder her ex-husband in 2007. The woman is now facing 25 years to life in prison. [TU]

(there's more)

Stimulus includes millions for local schools, snow totaled about six inches, new name for MapInfo, dude looked like a lady

Chuck Schumer says the stimulus bill currently moving through Congress includes $84 million for schools in the Capital Region. The Albany City School District will get the biggest chunk of that -- $12.7 (full breakdown). Local counties will also get almost $43 million to help cover Medicaid costs. The stimulus bill passed the House yesterday (Tonko voted for it) -- it's yet to be voted on in the Senate. [Daily Gazette] [Daily Gazette] [TU] [NYT] [CapNews9]

Officials from school districts, teachers unions and advocacy groups testified yesterday before the state legislature that the almost $700 million in school aid cuts in the proposed state budget would lead to thousands of layoffs and service cuts. (By the way: Schumer says that stimulus bill includes almost $2.5 billion in education aid for New York State.) [TU] [AP/Newsday]

The final tally on yesterday's storm: about six inches of snow and ice, a bunch of wrecks, some cancelled Regents exams and more snowblowers sold. [TU] [Troy Record] [Saratogian] [Daily Gazette]

Schenectady police say they're increasing patrols of city neighborhoods that have high levels of gun crimes. Three people have already been arrested, include a young man who has been charged with wearing an illegal bulletproof vest. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

Local home prices hold steady, former NYS health commissioner accused of abusing staff, Bruno says they've messed with the wrong guy, Honest Weight sales up

Median home prices in the the Capital Region fell one percent last year, according to figures from the Greater Capital Association of Realtors. The number of transactions did slow considerably -- down 15 percent. In the four core counties of the Capital Region, median prices held steady -- and in Albany County the median sales price actually went up one percent. An economics consultancy is projecting that home prices here will fall two percent this year. [Biz Review] [TU]

Kirsten Gillibrand is scheduled to take the oath of office for the Senate today. At 42-years-old, she'll become the nation's youngest US Senator. [AP]

As many as 25 Democrats are hoping to snag the nomination to run for Gillibrand's soon-to-be old House seat. There are also a bunch of Republicans in the scrum, though it seems three frontrunners have emerged (Tedisco, Little, Faso). [TU] [Daily Gazette]

Former New York State health commissioner Anotonia Novello "shamelessly and blatantly exploited and abused her staff, adding a new dimension to the definition of 'arrogance' and 'chutzpah'," according to the NYS Inspector General's office. Among Novello's alleged transgressions: she commandeered state staff and vehicles for frequent shopping expeditions. Novello's lawyer says the former commissioner didn't do anything that "calls for criminal prosecution." [NYT]

(there's more)

Synecdoche in Schenectady

synecdoche.jpg

Synecdoche in Schenectady. Dude, that's meta.

Yes, it's finally happened. Charlie Kaufman's "Synecdoche" has come to Schenectady. Proctor's is showing the Kaufman flick which stars Phillip Seymour Hoffman as a Schenectady theater director who gets a MacArthur grant and builds a giant New York city, casting actors to play himself and everyone else in his life.

And you can see it in Schenectady. The only way this gets more meta is if Kaufman sits next to you and provides a running commentary. We caught it last week at the Spectrum. It left us with a charlie horse in our heads, but it was worth seeing. You can catch it tonight or at one of 3 showings on Wednesday for $6

Also, if the eloquence of the new administration has you missing words like misunderestimated and phrases like, "gynecologists can't practice their
love with women" you can catch Josh Brolin as #43 in Oliver Stone's "W" at Proctor's today and tomorrow. That one is only $3.

Everybody into the pool for Gillibrand's seat, first homicide of the year in Schenectady, apartments planned for downtown Albany, chicken wing prices up

Kirsten Gillibrand's now-former seat in the House is attracting the interest of, well, everyone. All sorts of candidates are either already in the race or are having their names floated. Among them: Betty Little, Jim Tedisco, John Faso, Sandy Treadwell, Tracey Brooks, former TV anchor Tracy Egan and former NY Rangers goalie Mike Richter. [TU] [Saratogian] [CapNews9] [TU]

A Schenectady man died this weekend after being shot in the head Saturday night at a party. A woman was also shot -- her injuries aren't considered life-threatening. Schenectady police say they don't have many leads -- and they say witnesses are not cooperating. This was the city's first homicide of the year. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

CDTA's planned route cuts and consolidations began Sunday. The transit org is paring back service as part of its plan to cover a multi-million dollar budget gap. [TU]

Saratoga Springs mayor Scott Johnson delivered his state of the city address yesterday. He called for "fiscal conservatism" and pushed for paid public parking. (By the way: how many people were there? The TU reports 75, the Gazette 100 and the Saratogian 200.) [TU] [Saratogian] [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

Paterson says he's narrowed the field for Clinton's seat, storms straining snow removal budgets, shootout in Schenectady, dry cleaner closing stores

David Paterson says he's narrowed the field of candidates to replace Hillary Clinton in the Senate, but says he still hasn't made up his mind -- though he expects to do so by the end of this week. Paterson says he hasn't yet gone through all the questionnaires submitted by the hopefuls. [TU] [NYT]

One way you might have scored an inauguration ticket from Kirsten Gillibrand: promise to "love you so much" in a handwritten letter. It probably helps to be 10-years-old, too. [TU]

A rapid exchange of gunfire yesterday afternoon in Schenectady left bullet holes in cars and sent neighborhood residents diving for the floor. The shooters got away before police arrived. [TU] [Fox23]

Increased prices for salt -- and a series of weekend snow storms -- are straining the snow removal budgets of local municipalities. [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

Catholic diocese closing many churches, Timmons' mother says they will appeal, Troy cracking down on ticket scofflaws, jewelry store gets liquor license, Circuit City closeout mobbed

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Albany has announced that will close 17 churches in the Capital Region (33 in total across the 14 county diocese). Six churches in Troy are closing, three in both Schenectady and Cohoes will close and two in Albany are being merged with other churches. Of the consolidation, bishop Howard Hubbard said, "I feel in the depths of my heart a deep sadness." (Complete list from the diocese.) [Troy Record] [TU] [TU] [RCDA]

The mother of Jermayne Timmons, the teen convicted last week of firing the shot that killed Kathina Thomas, says her son was "railroaded." Timmons' attorney says they plan to file an appeal. [TU]

An APD detective accused of driving into a parked car will not automatically lose his license for a year after refusing to take a breathalyzer test (as the law requires) -- because the cops who arrested him didn't follow protocol. Attorneys who specialize in DWI cases say it does not look like they screwed it up on purpose, though. [TU]

There were 42 collisions between aircraft and birds reported at ALB last year -- despite escalating efforts to keep birds off the runways. [TU]

(there's more)

Timmons found guilty, Gillibrand says she is a candidate for Clinton's seat, Jackson talks with RPI faculty about recent layoffs, local foreclosures up in 2008

Note: the TU's site was down this morning

A jury found Jermayne Timmons guilty yesterday of firing the shot that killed Kathina Thomas. The teen could now get 15 years to life. Timmons' lawyer says they plan to appeal. Thomas' mother says she hopes Timmons is sent away for life. Charlie Muller, who runs the Albany gun buyback program, says both Thomas and Timmons are victims of the situation. [AP/Daily Gazette] [Fox23] [CapNews9]

Kirsten Gillibrand said yesterday that she is a candidate for the Hillary Clinton's Senate seat and she has interviewed with David Paterson about the job. [CBS6] [Post-Star]

The City Mission of Schenectady says demand for meals and a place to stay was up signficantly last year. And the recent cold weather is also increasing demand -- the shelter laid out mats for extra people last night. [Daily Gazette] [Daily Gazette]

It appears that the Albany area is currently the top candidate for a new IBM research center that would employ 675 people. [EETimes] [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

Jury deliberating Kathina case, selection process for Hillary replacement criticized, crash closes major intersection, new life for vacant anchor space at Crossgates?

The jury in the trial of Jermayne Timmons, the teen accused of firing the shot that killed Kathina Thomas, heard closing arguments yesterday before going into deliberations. The jurors were sent home at 9:30 pm and will continue deliberating today. [TU]

The gunman in the I-90 shootout had been on probation after pleading guilty to a handful of charges related to a 2006 robbery in Connecticut. He died Monday night after being taken off life support. [TU]

Jim Tedisco says Hillary Clinton's replacement in the US Senate should be picked by voters in a special election. It would seem that the chances of that actually happening are extremely small. [TU] [AP/Troy Record]

The New York Daily News reports that Andrew Cuomo has interviewed with David Paterson for Hillary Clinton's Senate seat -- though Cuomo's people called the story "factually inaccurate." [NYDN]

(there's more)

Susan is a pinhead

We had always kind of wondered why Pinhead Susan's in Schenectady is called, well, Pinhead Susan's. And now we know, thanks to this video:

Job anxiety at Capitol, Albany Med planning more development, cell phone prompts school evacuation, NYSTI fighting merger with Egg

The change in control of the state Senate is causing a lot of anxiety for staffers -- many of their jobs are up in the air as resources are being re-apportioned. The state Senate has 1,300 staffers. [NYT]

Albany Med is looking to build an office building, hotel and parking garage on land owned by the VA across New Scotland Ave. The plan would also reconfigure that part of New Scotland into a four-lane street. [TU]

A chunk of ice flew off the back of a tractor trailer yesterday and smashed through the windshield of a Ballston Spa woman's car. (The picture is remarkable.) She says she'd now like to see a state law to making it illegal to drive with ice on your car. [CBS6] [CBS6]

Local auto repair shops say business is booming as people look to hang on to their cars longer because of the economy. [TU]

Police say they're not sure what led to the death of a man found along the side of the road in North Greenbush on Sunday. [Troy Record]

(there's more)

Reaction to State of the State, rally in downtown Albany, more weird twists in Kathina trial, sewage might have ended up in vegetable compost, pet deer attacks man

Elected state leaders praised David Paterson for being direct about the state's situation in yesterday's State of the State speech. (They also apparently envy his memory.) But some said the speech was short on specifics. (The Record has put together an extensive compilation of reaction from interest groups and local elected leaders.) [Fox23] [Troy Record] [CapNews9] [Troy Record]

About 4,000 people got together in downtown Albany before the speech for a protest organized by the civil service unions. They turned out to oppose Paterson's proposed budget -- to the sounds of Twisted Sister. [Troy Record] [NYT]

After control of the state Senate passed to the Democrats yesterday, Dean Skelos' name was scratched off the door of the majority's office space. [Daily Politics] [TU]

Paterson's proposals for more research into renewable energy and efficiency could benefit the Capital Region. [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

Clothing kids in Uganda -- via Schenectady

Intension uganda shirt

Buy one, they give one.

Above is a picture of the t-shirts being sold by those two guys in Schenectady who are aiming to help kids in Uganda. We agree with 23-Hour Alice Person (and her brother, who "hates everything"): the design is pretty cool.

The shirts are $22. When you buy one, a kid in Uganda also gets a (different) shirt for school.

Joe Bruno's daughter under scrutiny, Thruway toll hike kicks in, local t-shirt biz hopes to help kids in Africa, ice fishing heats up,

The TU reports that Susan Bruno -- Joe Bruno's daughter -- has come under scrutiny as part of the long-running federal investigation into her father. At issue: whether Susan Bruno was given a high-paying job at the SUNY Research Foundation, but not really required to do much. Also: her spelling skills apparently need some work. [TU]

Filings at the Albany office of federal bankruptcy court were up more than 20 percent in 2008 over the year before. [TU]

Gun sellers at a show in Saratoga Springs say business is way up this year. They cite concerns among gun owners that the Obama Administration will push for stiffer gun control laws. [Saratogian] [CapNews9]

A five percent increase in Thruway tolls took effect on Sunday. [Fox23]

(there's more)

Paterson budget has everyone complaining, RPI layoffs start, Caroline headed upstate, student found dead, penis guy arrested again

It seems you can't throw a snow ball and not hit someone who's upset in some way about David Paterson's proposed budget. Everyone from hospital groups to beverage companies to county DAs to salon owners to environmentalists to unions to the suburbs took issue yesterday with some aspect of the budget. (A quick read of the proposed budget.) [TU] [TU] [Saratogian] [CapNews9] [Biz Review] [NYT] [NYDN]

About 10,000 homes in the Capital Region are still without power. National Grid is asking people still in the dark to call them. [Daily Gazette] [TU]

The RPI layoffs started yesterday. It's unclear how many people have been let go. The school reported to the state Department of Labor that it would be eliminating 98 jobs -- but a source told the Troy Record the number is somewhere between 100 and 170. A hundred jobs would be about 5 percent of RPI's workforce. The layoffs have been sparking harsh comments about RPI president Shirley Jackson. [TU] [Troy Record] [AOA comments]

Caroline Kennedy will reportedly be in Syracuse today as part of a sort of upstate campaign for Hillary Clinton's Senate seat. [Syracuse Post-Standard] [NY Mag]

(there's more)

Paterson budget proposal out today, thousands still without power, CDTA says rapid bus line moving forward, UAlbany plans to chill out

David Paterson is releasing his proposed 2009 state budget today -- and it's expected to include the elimination of 3,000 state worker jobs, some of through layoffs. The governor's people say many of the layoffs could be averted if the state worker unions agree to defer their raises next year and delay a week's-worth of pay. [TU]

Caroline Kennedy says she wants to succeed Hillary Clinton and is actively pursuing the seat. [NYT]

As of this morning, about 40,000 homes in the Capital Region are still without power. National Grid says it brought 900 line and tree crews into the region and they've been working 18 hour shifts to get things repaired. [Daily Gazette] [TU] [Daily Gazette]

Chuck Schumer and David Paterson are calling on the federal government to provide disaster aid to the area. [Troy Record]

(there's more)

Former judge indicted for alleged shakedown, thousands of ghost tickets issued, police say dog starved to death, car smashes into florist

A former state Supreme Court judge from Albany County has been indicted on charges he tried to shake down attorneys appearing before him. Federal prosecutors say Thomas Spargo threatened to "harm" an attorney if the attorney didn't give him $10,000. Spargo was removed from the bench in 2006 after allegations of this behavior surface. He's recently been doing work for the City of Troy. [TU] [Daily Gazette] [Troy Record]

An attempted murder case in Schenectady could be retried after one of the jurors told a prosecutor he based his decision on the defendant's race. The juror also told the prosecutor he was distracted during the trail by the prosecutor's "captivating beauty." The juror now says he was drunk when he made the statements. [Daily Gazette]

APD chief James Tuffey told the Albany City Council yesterday that 40 percent of the parking tickets given out in the city over the last two years have been "ghost tickets" (that is, the recipients didn't have to pay). [TU]

The Troy City Council now says it won't challenge the mayor's veto of its changes to the city budget. [Troy Record]

(there's more)

Deal for state Senate control crumbling, ban on texting and driving, Lydia Kulbida being let go, Tutunjian says he'll go to jail over budget, reps speak out against cow fart tax

That deal Malcolm Smith reportedly struck with the "Gang of Three" to solidify control of the state Senate appears to be falling apart. It seems the trio is upset that Smith was trying to strip many of the powers away from the majority leader title (under the reported agreement, Smith would become Senate president pro tem and one of the trio would become Senate majority leader). The Gang of Three seems upset, with one member blaming, among others, "The gays." [NYT] [Daily Politics] [Daily Politics]

A Marist poll reports that New Yorkers favor either Andrew Cuomo or Caroline Kennedy for Hillary Clinton's seat. Well, either them, or "unsure." [Marist]

The Schenectady County Legislature passed a ban on texting while driving last night. It takes effect next March. Getting caught violating the ban will cost $150. [Daily Gazette]

WNYT has decided to not renew the contract of popular anchor Lydia Kulbida. Her contract runs through mid January, though the station's not sure if she'll be back on the air again. Seventeen other people at the station are also being let go. [TU]

(there's more)

Democrats strike deal for control of state Senate, Schumer touting Gillibrand, longtime Saratoga sheriff gets challenger, wrong way driver causes four accidents, students organize for french fries

Note: the TU's site wasn't loading this morning.

Democrats in the state Senate have worked out a deal with the "Gang of Three" senators who were threatening to side with Republicans in the upcoming leadership vote. As part of the deal, Malcolm Smith will become head of the state Senate (president pro tem), but Pedro Espada will become majority leader (no, it usually doesn't get split like that). Also apparently part of the deal: the chamber won't bring up a vote on gay marriage, which one of the Gang of Three opposes. [NYT] [NYDN] [NYP]

Chuck Schumer is reportedly encouraging David Paterson to pick Kirsten Gillibrand to replace Hillary Clinton. [NYP]

The solider from Rensselaer County accused of killing two superiors in Iraq was found not guilty by a military jury yesterday at Ft. Bragg in North Carolina. The judge had to clear the courtroom after the verdict prompted yelling from the victims' families. [AP/Daily Gazette]

Police say bystanders flocked to the aid of the family hit by a pickup truck on State Street in Schenectady Wednesday. An SPD spokesperson says the accident scene was one of the worst he's ever seen, with little kids "lying in the street screaming for their mother." [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

Pickup plows into family of pedestrians, ESP skating rink won't open, Saratoga packs 'em in for Gillibrand, ghost ticket investigation urged

A pickup truck hit a family of seven as they were crossing State Street in Schenectady late yesterday afternoon. A police spokesmen said there were "bodies all over the street" and it was "the worst thing" he'd ever seen. Two of the injured children were airlifted to Albany Med -- they were in critical condition last night. [TU] [WNYT] [Daily Gazette]

Opponents to the expansion of the Albany dump were out in force last night at a public comment meeting. One city resident called said the dump problems wouldn't be fixed until there's a new mayor. And Colonie residents complained about the smell. The dump is projected to be full by the end of next year. [TU] [WNYT]

The family of the man who was mistakenly identified by police as having died in a car wreck says the error was preventable. They say police didn't take notice that the body didn't match their son's license -- it was 200 pounds heavier and had different color eyes. They also say police never asked them to identify the body. [TU]

The skating rink on the ESP will not open this year. The state says it can save $150,000 keeping the rink closed. [TU]

(there's more)

Former Schenectady police chief to plead guilty, chip fab clears another hurdle, Paterson "disturbed" by list, Jumpin' Jacks waterfront to get makeover

Both former Schenectady police chief Greg Kaczmarek and his wife are expected to plead guilty today to drug charges. The former top cop is expected to get two years in prison as part of the plea deal. [Daily Gazette]

State police incorrectly identified the victim in a fatal car crash over the weekend in Clifton Park. The mix-up led to the wrong family being notified. The situation was resolved after the grandmother of the man who actually did die noticed something was wrong. [TU]

Super Steel is closing its plant in Glenville. The manufacturer of train cars says it's seen "a steep decline in orders." The shutdown will put 175 people out of work. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

The Malta chip fab project cleared another hurdle yesterday. The Empire State Development Corp. approved the transfer of $1.2 billion in state incentives from AMD to the new spin-off company that will run the plant. [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

Paterson warns of "deeper" cuts in school funding, new budgets for Saratoga and Troy, new jobs at arsenal, turkey to go more popular

David Paterson sent out a letter to school boards around the state yesterday warning them that "deeper declines in funding" will be necessary next year because the legislature failed to act on mid-year budget cuts this year. [TU]

In a surprise, the Saratoga Springs city council approved a 2009 budget that does not include a tax increase. On Monday the city's finance commissioner had said the city would need raise taxes 3.5 percent -- but the budget was revised to use money from a contingency fund and reserves to cover the gap. The budget does includes some cuts to the public works department; the DPW commissioner said he would direct callers with complaints about the cuts to the council members who supported them. [Daily Gazette] [TU] [Saratogian]

Troy's city council also approved a 2009 budget that doesn't include a tax increase -- but this being Troy, the mayor and the council still had to fight about it. [TU] [Troy Record]

A Congressional committee will be looking into allegations that the investigation that turned up Eliot Spitzer's involvement with prostitutes was politically motivated. [NYT]

(there's more)

Home prices holding steady, Jennings starts up re-election campaign, RPI center will focus on extraterrestrial life, family gets Oprah makeover

The median sale price of homes in the Capital Region is holding more or less steady, even as many fewer houses are being sold. The number of sales in October was down 16 percent over the same period a year ago. [Biz Review] [TU]

New York State comptroller Tom DiNapoli is predicting the state could lose 225,000 jobs during the next two years. DiNapoli says about 3/4 of the lost jobs will come from Wall Street -- which could take a big bite out of state revenue. About 20 percent of state tax revenue comes from the Street. [TU]

The Albany Common Council approved a 2009 budget for the city. The budget includes a tax increase of $96 for the average homeowner. [TU]

Saratoga Springs' finance commissioner has proposed a new 2009 budget that takes into account the proposed cut in VLT money from the state. The new budget includes a tax increase of 3.5 percent -- up from 2.7 percent in the previous version. [Saratogian] [Daily Gazette]

Jerry Jennings' 2009 re-election campaign is starting up, apparently with some haste. The Albany mayor's campaign will be holding a fundraiser at the Fort Orange Club in December -- $500/person for the cocktail reception, $1000/person for dinner. [TU]

(there's more)

State leaders meet and get nothing done, Troy needs a fire truck, UAlbany students charged with rape, truck hits overpass

David Paterson, Sheldon Silver and Dean Skelos met up on Sunday to discuss possible budget cuts ahead of tomorrow's special legislative session. And the result: nothing. [TU]

Saratoga Springs city officials say they'll be lobbying state leaders this week in an attempt to keep all of the VLT money originally allotted to the city. David Paterson's proposed budget cuts would cut $1.9 million from the city's share of VLT revenue -- that's five percent of the city budget. [Daily Gazette]

Seemingly half of New York's Congressional delegation -- not to mention a handful of other state officials -- could be in the running for an appointment to Hillary Clinton's Senate seat in the event she takes a post with the Obama Administration. Oh, and about that -- Clinton's not talking. [TU] [TU]

Troy's deputy mayor says the city's fire chief sent him a letter last week reporting that the city is in emergency need of a new fire truck after two of the trucks were recently taken out of service. [Troy Record]

(there's more)

APD searching possible Bailey murder witness, school districts says cuts will be hard to cover, union says layoffs will endanger public safety, bike registration proposed

Albany police are looking for what they hope is another witness to the murder of UAlbany student Richard Bailey. The APD says a white Volvo drove by the scene at S. Lake and Yates at about the same time Bailey was shot. The commander who's in charge of the department's detectives says the Bailey investigation is still a "very, very active investigation." [TU]

Local school districts say it would be difficult to cover the hole left David Paterson's proposed mid-year cuts in state aid to schools. [TU]

Democrat Doug Wait has been declared the winner in the race for Saratoga Springs city court judge. Wait topped Republican Matt Dorsey by a margin of 333 votes after all the absentee ballots were counted -- a margin made up mostly of votes from Skidmore's precinct. Wait is the first Democrat to ever be elected to the position in Saratoga Springs. [TU] [Daily Gazette] [Saratogian]

The state Department of Transportation says it will close the Route 9P bridge across Saratoga Lake for 9 months starting in the Fall of 2010 so a new bridge can be built in its place. Closing the bridge -- as opposed to building next to it -- will save the project $5 million. Local business owners say closing the bridge will severely hurt their businesses. [TU] [Daily Gazette] [Saratogian]

(there's more)

Reaction to Paterson's proposed budget cuts, DA candidates broke rules, beer can DNA leads to plea, paying for horse retirement

A very quick overview of David Paterson's plan to cut $2 billion from this year's state budget. [AOA]

David Paterson's proposed budget cuts went over pretty much as you would expect with the state's various interest groups: not well at all. [TU] [Biz Review] [Troy Record] [Daily Gazette]

Dean Skelos, the lame-duck state Senate majority leader, basically said the Senate wouldn't act on Paterson's proposals during next week's special session. Skelos also said he didn't "see anything creative" in Paterson's plan. [Daily Politics]

A big portion of the proposed budget cuts come from school aid. Among the proposed cuts for local districts: Albany $2.6 million (3.4 percent), Schenectady $2.7 million (3 percent), Guilderland $2 million (10 percent), Troy $1.4 million (3 percent). [TU]

Also among the proposed cuts: VLT money that goes to cities and counties. Saratoga Springs could lose $1.8 million next year under the Paterson plan. The city's finance commissioner says the city's going to plan on still getting the full amount. VLT money makes up about 10 percent of the city's budget. [Saratogian]

(there's more)

Paterson says budget cuts will involve "a big knife," state economy in recession, recycling urged in effort to save money, proposed Saratoga horse park would be pricey

At a town hall-style meeting yesterday Syracuse, David Paterson said of making cuts to the state budget: "We'll be using a big knife but trying to operate it like a scalpel." The Gov will unveil his plans for cutting $2 billion from the current state budget this morning. Reportedly among the proposals: across-the-board cuts for health programs, big cuts to public universities, a repeal of the gasoline tax cap and increase in fees for health plans. [NYT] [TU]

The leadership situation in the state Senate is still unsettled. One of the three Democrats who have not pledged their support to Malcolm Smith says he'd prefer to see a Latino Democrat be majority leader. [NYT]

An analysis from a University at Buffalo center has concluded that New York State has been in a recession since the second quarter of this year. [Biz Review]

Local retail stores are hiring extra help for the holidays shopping season -- and this year they have their pick of employees. [AP/TU]

(there's more)

Unions scoff at Paterson's suggestion, SUNY tuition increased proposed, cop accused of threatening to kill ex-wife, state holds back stem cell research funding

A trio of the state's most powerful public employee unions scoffed at David Paterson's suggestion that they might open their contracts for re-negotiation. A Paterson spokesman says "no area of state spending can be off the table." [AP/Newsday]

More than two dozen SUNY campus presidents have called for a 25 percent tuition increase ($1,090 tacked onto the present $4,350), half of which would be charged during the spring semester. SUNY's finance committee also approved a three percent cut in each campus's budget . [TU]

Schenectady mayor Brian Stratton approved the city council's 2009 budget, even though he called unachievable and irresponsible. The council had cut Stratton's proposed budget, which included a 2.9 percent tax increase, against his objections. The new budget does not include a tax increase. [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

Checking out the Schenectady Greenmarket

Schenectady Greenmarket downstairs

Downstairs at the new Schenectady Greenmarket.

By Amy Brozio-Andrews

A trip to the first Sunday of this season's Winter Market at the new Schenectady Greenmarket with the kids turned out to be way more fun than I expected it to be.

We turned the clocks back and were off our normal schedules, the kids were still wired from Halloween -- would there be enough there to hold everyone's interest until I could be rescued by naptime?

(there's more)

No tax increase for Schenectady?, cop gets backup from passerby, Saratoga mini-Chopper food won't be pricy, a bounty from tainted Booty

The Schenectady City Council passed a 2009 budget that does not include a tax increase. The budget proposed by Mayor Brian Stratton had called for a 2.9 percent hike. Stratton has said he would veto the budget if the council made significant cuts. [Daily Gazette]

At a John McCain rally in downtown Albany on Saturday, Jim Buhrmaster -- the Republican running for the 21st Congressional District (McNulty's seat) -- said "the silent majority" will push McCain over the top in the presidential race. At a nearby Barack Obama rally, Paul Tonko -- the Democrat running for the seat -- said the opportunity to elect Obama is "a great fortune." [Troy Record]

After an Albany police officer got tangled up in a fight Friday night with a teenager, whom police say was carrying a shotgun, a passerby went into the cop's patrol car and called for backup. (Apparently the battery in the officer's mobile radio had died.) The APD says it hasn't been able to find the anonymous person who helped the officer. [Fox23] [Daily Gazette]

A car running a red light at Quail and Madison in Albany early Sunday morning hit an ambulance, causing it to roll over. The ambulance, which had its lights and siren on, then hit another car waiting at the light. No one was seriously injured. [WNYT] [TU]

Albany Common Councilman Glen Casey says his car should't have been booted for unpaid parking tickets. "Somebody needs to do a better job," he told the TU. The city treasurer says Casey still has outstanding tickets. [TU]

(there's more)

Movies & Mimosas at The Bow Tie

Gone with the Wind poster

Frankly my dear, I'd like some champagne.

We need to test it out, but this sounds like an awesome idea. The Bow Tie Cinema on State Street in Schenectady is showing classic movies every Saturday morning -- with a champagne twist.

(there's more)

Husband charged with wife's murder, downtown Saratoga Chopper sold, DMV clerk accused of stealing inspection stickers, common councilman gets the boot for unpaid tickets

Schenectady police have charged the husband of the woman murdered in her home over the weekend with the crime. The couple were immigrants from Guyana and police say the two had been fighting over whether to move back therer. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

Albany police say a new witness has reported seeing a third teen on a bike ride away from the scene of Richard Bailey's murder. (Two earlier witnesses reported seeing two teens on bikes.) The APD says it still doesn't have any solid leads in the case. [TU]

Local police departments say they're stepping up patrols tonight for Halloween. Apparently stores will also be watching for teens with shopping carts full of "trickster items." [TU]

A local developer has announced he's bought the Price Chopper in downtown Saratoga Springs -- and promises the site will continue to have a grocery store. Whether it will be a Price Chopper is unclear. An announcement on that part of the plan is scheduled for later today. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

Paterson warns Congress of "impending calamity," police say soph threatened school with data release, Stratton asks for raise, CDTA increasing swiper prices, fares up at ALB

David Paterson told Congress yesterday that New York needs federal assistance to "stave off an impending calamity." The Gov also invoked The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand. [NYT] [NYP]

Sales tax data indicates that local consumers are continuing to spend. Sales tax revenue during the first three quarters of this year for Albany, Schenectady and Saratoga counties was up 5 percent over the same period last year. [Daily Gazette]

The company hired by the state to test its new voting machines has been suspended by a federal oversight board. That won't affect things this year, but it could mean the old lever machines will hang on through 2009 and possibly into 2010. [TU]

State Police say the Shen sophomore who discovered unsecured employee data on a district server had uploaded the data to his own web account -- and issued vague demands to the district for its return. "He knew exactly what he was doing when he did it," a state police investigator said. [TU]

(there's more)

Round 2: Schenectady

pizza round 2 Schenectady
Home Style vs. Pizza King

The pepperoni round stops in Schenectady today for a matchup between Home Style and Pizza King. A quick recap of Round 1 in this bracket: Home Style made it to the second round by beating its neighbor down the block, Scotti's, 2-1. Pizza King advanced with a convincing 3-nil win over Fireside.

That leaves us with a Downtown vs. Upper Union matchup. Whose pepperoni will come out on top?

Let's go the pizza!

(there's more)

State facing huge budget gap, Gillibrand-Treadwell race one of nation's most expensive, cop dragged by truck, Schenectady OK with "arcane" reference

David Paterson will be presenting a mid-year budget plan for the state today -- the projected budget gap for 2009-2010 is expected to be a record $12.5 billion. [NYDN]

The candidates for the 21st Congressional District (McNulty's seat), Paul Tonko and Jim Buhrmaster, met for another debate last night. Here's the full video. [WNYT]

The Congressional race between Kirsten Gillibrand and Sandy Treadwell is the nation's second most expensive, according to FEC data. The two campaigns have spent a total of $9.2 million so far. [Daily Gazette]

This year's campaigns for the state Senate are shaping up to collectively be the most expensive ever, according to an analysis by NYPIRG. Campaigns have already spent $40 million and are on pace to surpass the $43.6 million spent in 2006. [NYT]

AMD is looking to get an exemption for the sales taxes it would have to pay on construction materials for the Luther Forest chip fab. If the Saratoga County Industrial Development Agency approves the exemption, it could save AMD almost $28 million. The exemption is expected to be approved. [Daily Gazette] [Saratogian]

(there's more)

Paterson's top advisor quits, woman murdered in Schenectady, local home prices steady, gambling with sick days, upside to global warming?

David Paterson's top advisor, Charles O'Byrne, resigned Friday because of the furor over him not paying taxes between 2001 and 2005. O'Byrne had been described as "the second-most-powerful man in New York" while working for Paterson. [NYT] [TU]

Police say a woman was murdered in her Schenectady home over the weekend. They say it appears Jaiwanti Mangar, a Guyanese immigrant, was killed after being struck in the head. [Daily Gazette]

Despite the stepped up police presence in the neighborhood following the nearby murder of UAlbany Richard Bailey, a man was stabbed four times at the corner of Madison and Ontario in Albany early Saturday morning. The attack was related to a fight over a woman, apparently. [Fox 23] [TU]

The president of the Pine Hill Neighborhood Association says there's been "an outpouring of outrage" in the neighborhood after Bailey's murder. APD chief James Tuffey says he's "certain" his department will find the murderer. [TU] [TU]

(there's more)

Gillibrand and Treadwell talk about economy, texting while driving ban proposed, Saratoga shops concerned about police overtime, a new supermarket moving in?

Much of last night's debate between Kirsten Gillibrand and Sandy Treadwell focused on the economy. Gillibrand said insufficient government regulation played a role in the financial meltdown (video clip) -- she also talked about why she didn't support the bailout bill (Treadwell says he didn't, either). Also discussed: Gillibrand's involvement with Altria dating back to her time as a corporate lawyer. Treadwell said Gillibrand's involvement with the tobacco company "is a question of judgment" (video clip). [TU] [WMHT] [WMHT]

The chairwoman of the Schenectady County legislature has proposed a ban on texting while driving in the county. Three other NY counties currently have such bans. [TU]

Albany police say they're making "slow progress" on the investigation into the shooting death of UAlbany student Richard Bailey. The two young adults seen riding away from the scene on bikes apparently are now considered to be involved, but not suspects. [TU]

The APD says a group of teens has been behind a string of car break-ins throughout the city's Pine Hills neighborhood. There have been 100 of these break-ins since the summer, including 12 this week. [TU] [FOX23]

(there's more)

Round 1: Schenectady

round 1 schenectady

The Schenectady bracket.

Round 1 of The Tournament of Pizza moves on to Schenectady. The matchups: Scotti's vs. Home Style and Fireside vs. Pizza King. Who will win the battle of upper Union? And can the Pizza King live up to its name?

Let's go to the action.

(there's more)

Top Paterson aide didn't pay taxes, Barnes believes he was targeted, chip fab company to get new name, Little League bleachers stolen

David Paterson's top advisor, chief of staff Charle O'Byrne, admitted this weekend to not paying his federal or state taxes from 2001-2005 after the TU reported there were warrants out for his back taxes. O'Byrne says he neglected to pay because he was clinically depressed. O'Byrne was $200,000 behind his taxes. The Gov has said O'Byrne did disclose the problem, though it's unclear to what to extent. The conventional wisdom seems to be that O'Byrne won't lose his job over this. [AP] [TU] [TU] [NYT] [Newsday]

Albany County DA David Soares says he'll meet with Steve Barnes to talk about the attack on the food writer and his friend Friday night. According to the TU, Barnes believes he was specifically targeted. [TU]

Rensselaer County's proposed 2009 budget does not include a tax increase. County executive Kathleen Jimino says the county's expanding tax base made an increase unnecessary. [TU]

As many as 7,500 absentee ballots in Albany County did not correctly list David Soares as a candidate on the Independence Line in the district attorney race. The board of elections says it was a simple oversight and new ballots will be ready this week. [TU]

(there's more)

Local unemployment rate hits 13-year high, candidates debate energy issues, pharmacy college changes its name, yet another new hotel

The Capital Region unemployment rate was 5.2 percent in September -- that's up from 3.8 percent a year ago. It's the highest unemployment rate for the area in 13 years. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

Jim Buhrmaster and Paul Tonko, the two candidates for the 21st Congressional District (McNulty's seat), talked a lot about energy during their debate last night. Both have experience on the topic -- Buhrmaster's family owns a heating oil company and Tonko was head of NYSERDA. Buhrmaster said new drilling for oil should one of the first priorities in a national energy plan and Tonko said it should be one of the last. [TU]

Still to come in the race between Kirsten Gillibrand and Sandy Treadwell for the 20th Congressional District: a lot of TV ads. [Daily Gazette]

A former deli worker at the Sam's Club in Latham is suing Walmart (Sam's parent company) for $1 million. The man says he was fired because he's a Catholic who wanted Sundays off to go to church. He says Walmart told him he was being fired for misconduct. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

Local gas prices drop, dog saves elderly couple from fire, Schenectady cops to be re-organized, local company develops fungus insulation

Gasoline prices have dropped below the $3 mark in some parts of the Capital Region -- though there's still wide variation between different neighborhoods. And gas here is still more expensive than it was last year at this time. [Daily Gazette] [Troy Record] [Saratogia]

The two candidates running for the 21st Congressional District (McNulty's seat) debated last night. Paul Tonko, a Democrat, called himself "a problem solver by profession" (he was an engineer). Jim Buhrmaster, a Republican, touted his "real world experience" and the fact that he's a parent (Tonko doesn't have children). Top issue, according to each candidate -- Tonko: energy; Buhrmaster: the size of government. [CapNews9] [Fox23]

The executive committee of SUNY's Student Assembly is a supporting a resolution that calls for modest annual tuition increases. Tuition hasn't gone up since 2003. The system is facing a budget gap of as much as $210 million. [TU]

Firefighters say an elderly couple in Malta were able to escape their burning house early this morning after their dog alerted them to fire. The dog didn't make it out. [CBS6] [TU]

(there's more)

Investigation into Obama-Osama mixup, enrollment surges for local community colleges, fire wood in high demand, opossum knocks out power in Troy

The Rensselaer County legislature has decided to investigate how absentee ballots in the county ended up listing Barack Obama as Barack Osama. [TU]

Albany County's proposed 2009 budget includes a 4 percent property tax increase, the first in four years. [TU]

Malta, Malta, Malta:
+ The transfer of AMD's state incentive package to its spinoff depends on a vote by the Empire State Development Corp. And that spin-off company will be organized in the Cayman Islands -- though it will pay US taxes on operations in this country. [TU]
+ AMD doesn't think its technology sharing agreement with Intel will pose any problem. At all.
+ The new chip fab won't be turning chips until 2012. [Daily Gazette]
+ Malta has a couple of "new urbanist" developments in the works for its downtown -- but some, including the town supervisor, worry the developments will be too dense. [TU]

Both HVCC and SCCC are reporting surges in enrollment, probably because of the weakening economy. Hot program of study at HVCC: overhead electric line worker. [TU]

(there's more)

Another potential snag for AMD, Treadwell says he'll donate salary, psychologist throws herself on the mercy of the court, museum officials say they're not prudes

Another potential snag in the deal behind the Luther Forest chip fab project: AMD has a technology sharing agreement with rival Intel that prohibits sharing the technology with a third party. So, does AMD's spin-off corporation count as a third party? AMD says it's not concerned. [TU]

Sandy Treadwell has announced that, if elected to Congress, he'll donate his salary to charity (roughly $165,000). Treadwell is, as they say, independently wealthy. He's already donated $2.5 million to his campaign. [TU]

Sheldon Silver apparently loves the frequent flyer miles. He's recently been criticized for booking flights from NYC to Albany through DC so he can rack up miles. Silver's people say the Assembly speaker will now be taking cheaper direct flights. [AP/TU]

Schenectady police say a woman was carjacked Wednesday night after the perp faked being run over as the woman backed out of a parking spot. The woman got out to see if the man was OK and that's when he made his move. [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

More chip fab talk, Skelos says Paterson acting like Spitzer, UAlbany parts with search firm that couldn't find, Van Dyck gets a new owner

Local real estate agents and developers say the Luther Forest chip fab project will probably have some effect on home values -- but not a huge one. [Daily Gazette]

The chip fab's first product: gloating. [TU]

State Senate majority leader Dean Skelos says state worker layoffs should not be part of the budget cut discussion. He also says David Paterson is starting to act like Eliot Spitzer. [TU] [CapNews9]

The state DEC has decided to review Albany's landfill expansion proposal now that the city is considering more stringent recycling requirements and charging residents by the bag for garbage. At its current size, the Rapp Road landfill will be full by the end of next year. [TU]

Local boards of election are trying to keep up with a surge in voter registrations, which appear to be leaning Democratic. [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

Luther Forest chip fab a go, Conners and Soares squabble over audit, parking prices going up at airport, Sam the Bugler returned home

AMD says it is going ahead with the chip fab plant at Luther Forest. The chip company is spinning off a new company focused on manufacturing (with $6 billion from Abu Dhabi), and that company (called Foundry) will actually be building and operating the plant. The Luther Forest chip fab is not a completely done deal, though. AMD says a few things still need to happen for it to be official, including having New York State transfer its $1.2 billion in incentives to the new company. It looks like that will happen -- there's a press conference with David Paterson and the AMD people this afternoon. [NYT] [WSJ] [TU]

An audit released yesterday by Albany County comptroller Mike Conners concludes that about $6,000 is missing from a safe in DA David Soares' office and criticized the DA's office for spending seized money on things like parking and community anti-crime initiatives. (Though there appears to be a shifting standard for what's considered an allowed use of seized money.) Soares says the audit is politically motivated (he's up for re-election next month). Conners says he hoped to conclude the audit earlier this year, but received "little help" from Soares. [TU] [TU] [Troy Record]

The state legislators who represent Schenectady told the city council last night that it shouldn't look for more state aid this year because there just isn't any money. But getting rid of unfunded mandates might be an option. One idea: get the state to allow Schenectady to open a night court so it doesn't have to build more court space. [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

Paterson: cut another $2 billlion, Gillibrand votes no again, two Broadway shops closing in Saratoga, pumpkin prices up, tapas in Cohoes

David Paterson says he will call the state Legislature back after the November election so they can work on making another $2 billion in cuts from the current budget. At a leaders meeting on Friday, Paterson said the Leg doesn't understand how bad the situation is, to which Dean Skelos said: "I don't need to be lectured." [NYT]

Kirsten Gillibrand voted against the Wall Street bailout bill again on Friday -- her second no vote on it. She said the plan was "could be dangerous." Mike McNulty voted "yes" on it for the second time. [TU] [CapNews9]

National Grid says natural gas prices will be up 11 percent this winter. [TU]

Many of Schenectady County's top managers are getting a raise in next year's proposed budget. That's not going over well with some people because the budget also includes a 13 percent tax hike. [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

Lots of cats and explosives found in home, artifact thief sentenced, Obama opens big lead in NY, graduation prankster wants his costume back

Animal control investigators found about 60 cats -- three of them dead -- in a house in Ravena yesterday. They also found grenades, land mines and a laser-guided rocket (it's unclear whether explosives were live or not). Police described the home owners as collectors of war memorabilia. [TU] [CBS6]

Jerry Jennings' proposed budget for the City of Albany has people thinking he will almost certainly be running for re-election next year. As one council member noted: the amount budgeted for street and sidewalk repair was tripled for next year. Jennings has been mayor since 1994. [TU]

Schenectady County is no longer in the top 10 nationally for highest taxes as a percentage of home value -- it's now 12th in the nation, according to a tax think tank. Homeowners in the county pay 2.3 percent of the value of their homes in taxes. (Of note: the county's proposed budget for next year includes 13 percent tax increase.) [Daily Gazette] [Daily Gazette]

Daniel Lorello, the guy who stole artifacts from the NYS Library, was sentenced to two to six years in prison yesterday. He also has to pay $125,000 in restitution and give his personal collection to the library. [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

Proposed tax increases for City of Albany and Schenectady County, proposals for Harriman development, crystal balls at ESP trouble some, the Knicks drink coffee in Saratoga

Jerry Jennings' proposed 2009 budget for the City of Albany includes a 4.9 percent tax increase. (That's a projected $100 increase for the owner of a "average" home.) The almost $161 million budget is actually smaller than last year's by about $1 million. Among the cuts this year: 20 firefighter and 10 police jobs will be left vacant. [TU]

In Troy, Harry Tutunjian's proposed budget is four percent bigger than last year's, but it doesn't include a tax increase. The plan aims use to reserves and state aid to cover the increase. [Troy Record]

Schenectady County's proposed budget for 2009 includes a 13 percent tax increase. The county manager, a Democrat, says the cost of state mandates is forcing the hike. County Republicans say the majority Democrats have mismanaged the county's finances through their "out-of-control patronage and liberal programs." [TU] [Daily Gazette]

Banks with local branches say they're in pretty good shape, despite the ongoing banking/Wall Street meltdown. They credit their stability to not being involved with shaky subprime mortgages. [TU] [Saratogian]

(there's more)

Albany could charge for garbage by the bag, state to consider privatizing assets, cops in dispute over shot of Jagermeister, buzz and grumbing about EMPAC, Weathervane closes

The City of Albany could be moving toward a "pay as you throw" arrangement for garbage collection -- that is, people would be charged by the bag for their trash. (Trash pickup is currently not a separate charge for residents.) The proposal is part of the city's draft plan to the state DEC for its dump, which will be full by next year if it's not expanded. [TU]

David Paterson is setting up a commission to study ways the state could form public/private partnerships to help steady its finances. One such idea would be privatizing the state lottery, which reportedly could bring in as much as $4 billion up front and $200 million annually. [NYT] [AP]

The Albany gun buyback program has been extended to Schenectady. (Earlier on AOA: The Albany gun buyback: buyer's remorse?)

Niskayuna's town supervisor has proposed a five percent tax increase for next year. He says the money's need to cover increasing costs for materials such as asphalt and road salt. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

Local House members split on bailout, kid curfew in Albany?, state workers could get four day work week, Gov involved in local septic tank dispute

The Capital Region's two members of the House voted differently yesterday on the Wall Street bailout bill. Kirsten Gillibrand voted against, saying in a release that the bill was "fundamentally flawed." (Sandy Treadwell, her Republican opponent in the November election says he also opposed the bill.) Mike McNulty voted for the bill. (His probable replacement, Democrat Paul Tonko, said he hasn't read the bill.) Incidentally, yesterday was supposed to be McNulty's last day in DC as a Congressman -- though now it looks like he'll be going back for another vote. [TU] [Saratogian] [Daily Gazette] [Troy Record]

New York State's comptroller says it now looks like the Wall Street meltdown will cost the state $3.5 billion in lost tax revenue over the next year-and-a-half. He's projecting the state will lose $1.75 billion just from decreases in year-end bonues given out by financial firms. [Biz Review]

Schenectady mayor Brian Stratton has proposed a budget for next year that would raise taxes 3 percent and increase water and garbage fees. It would be the first tax increase in three years for Schenectady. It was also the first time in three years no one clapped at the budget unveiling. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

Albany County comptroller Mike Conners says his most recent audit of the DA David Soares' office will include allegations "more serious" than money missing from a safe -- though Conners won't say what until October 6. Also present at this announcement: Soares' opponent in the November election, Roger Cusick. [TU]

Albany Common Councilman Glen Casey is proposing a curfew for kids under 17 as a way to reduce crime. Troy and Schenectady already have curfews. [TU]

(there's more)

Former Schenectady police chief indicted, Governor talks of more budget cuts, huge reptiles rescued from house fire, UAlbany home to largest death penalty collection

Former Schenectady police chief Greg Kaczmarek and his wife, Lisa, were both indicted yesterday on drug charges. Among the allegations: that Kaczmarek provided strategic advice to the drug ring's leader during a meeting at DiCarlo's, the strip club on Central Ave. There have been suspicions about Kaczmarek and drug use dating back to the 1990s. [TU] [Daily Gazette] [Daily Gazette]

A clerk for the Saratoga Springs department of public works has been arrested on charges she was skimming money from the sale of trash bags. Police say she might have stolen as much as $21,000. The head of the DPW says a lot of people were "very surprised" by the allegation. [Daily Gazette] [TU] [Saratogian]

David Paterson said yesterday that it's "very likely" he'll call the Legislature back for another special session to possibly make more cuts to the state budget. Paterson seemed to indicate that state worker layoffs are not on the table. [TU]

The steel suspension cables on the Twin Bridges are being replaced. The current cables are showing signs of rust and fraying. [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

The Vespa guy

Vespas at Schenectady dealership

A trio of Vespas lined up outside the dealership in Schenectady.

What was your first job out of college? It probably wasn't as cool as what Peter Caschera's got going on.

After graduating this past May from Georgetown he came back to the Capital Region and opened a Vespa dealership. (His brother Giuseppe, who's still in college, helps out during school breaks.)

We stopped by the dealership in Schenectady this week to ask Peter a few questions... and, um, ogle the merchandise.

(there's more)

Former police chief accused of drug ring involvement, Grandma's gets a new owner, UAlbany nanotech aims for another building, giant pink bike rider assaulted

Former Schenectady police chief Greg Kaczmarek is scheduled to appear in court today where he will reportedly face charges for his involvement with a drug ring. Kaczmarek's wife and stepson already face charges for being involved with the same operation. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

The media sale price for a Capital Region home was down 2 percent last month from the same period last year. Albany County median prices saw the biggest local drop -- 6 percent to $202,500. [Daily Gazette]

One of three developers pick to submit proposals for the redevelopment of the Harriman Office Campus has dropped out of the process. One of Harriman's board members says tightening credit markets and competition from other tech park developments could slow the project. [TU]

Grandma's Country Restaurant on Central Ave has been sold to the owner of Ralph's Tavern (also on Central). The new owner says Grandma's gift shop will be closing, but says everything else -- including the pies -- will remain exactly the same. [Daily Gazette] [Biz Review]

(there's more)

Father to be charged with murder of child, Rensselaer DA watching money evaporate, neighborhood wants to go after negative news coverage, where's Beboy?

A four-month-old baby, who was beaten by his father in Troy, has died. Authorities said yesterday they would charge the father with murder if the child died. [TU]

A replica of a WWII plane crashed yesterday afternoon at the Schenectady County Airport during a test flight. The test pilot, who's from Saratoga, is in critical condition. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

The New York State comptroller's office has extended its OpenBook New York database to local governments. [Biz Review]

George Amedore, the Republican incumbent in the 105th state Assembly district (Tonko's old seat), says his opponent, Democrat Mark Blanchfield, has unfairly taken his words about how he views his Assembly job out of context in a radio spot. Blanchfield's sticking by the ad. [WNYT]

The Rensselaer County District Attorney's office is watching almost half of its budget disappear as grants it's relied on run out. The $1 million in grants fund the salaries of five ADAs and four investigators. [Troy Record]

(there's more)

Soldier buried in Colonie, scientist wins "genius" grant, observatory looking for place to set up its telescope, are Schenectady's street lights too dim?

A US soldier killed in Afghanistan was buried in Colonie yesterday. Mohsin Naqvi, a first lieutenant in the Army, was a Muslim born in Pakistan -- his family came to the US when he was 8-years-old. Naqvi's father said his son gave his life for the United States. A member of the Army honor detail called Naqvi "a real patriot." [TU] [Daily Gazette]

Sally Temple, a biologist who heads the New York Neural Stem Cell Institute on UAlbany's east campus, has been awarded one of this year's MacArthur "genius" grants. The prestigious award is $500,000 -- with no restrictions. [TU]

The price of road salt has gone up as much as 50 percent from last year. Local public works departments say that means they'll probably be spreading more sand than they'd otherwise like to. [TU]

It looks like the plan to knock down two buildings along Washington Ave in Albany so the Fort Orange Club can build a new parking is off. Maybe. [TU]

(there's more)

Colonie facing a lot of red ink, smoking ban proposed around hospitals, Schenectady looking at slick solution for graffiti, chowderfest winners

Auditors for the Town of Colonie report the town is facing a $19.5 million deficit -- that's even bigger than the previous estimates that prompted finger wagging by the state. Town supervisor Paula Mahan says the town is still looking to collect a one-time deficit reduction tax next year. A plan to do that earlier this year was blocked by the state legislature. [TU]

John McCain said last night on 60 Minutes that Andrew Cuomo, who's currently the New York attorney general, would make a good head of the federal Securities and Exchange Commission. [Daily Politics]

Capital Region colleges say they're seeing jumps in enrollment and financial aid requests, possibly because of the state of the economy. [Daily Gazette]

An Albany common council member says he's going to propose a ban on smoking within 100 feet of hospitals. It's not the health effects that have him bothered -- it's the litter. [TU]

(there's more)

Sounds like Schenectady

Synecdoche posterThere's a trailer online now for Synecdoche, New York, the Charlie Kaufman film that's both partially set in Schenectady and plays on the city's name. (Synecdoche? You remember from literature class, right?) The film is coming out at the end of October.

What's it about? Well, it's a Kaufman film so that's not exactly an easy question to answer. Here's a bit about it from Slashfilm:

Synecdoche, New York stars Philip Seymour Hoffman as a theater director named Caden Cotard, whose life in Schenectady, New York is looking bleak. His wife Adele has left him to pursue her painting in Berlin, taking their young daughter Olive with her. A new relationship with the alluringly candid Hazel has prematurely run aground. And a mysterious condition is systematically shutting down each of his body's autonomic functions. Worried about the transience of his life, he moves his theater company to a warehouse in New York City. He directs them in a celebration of the mundane, instructing each to live out their constructed lives in a growing mockup of the city outside. Catherine Keener, Michelle Williams, Samantha Morton and Tilda Swinton co-star.

The early reviews have been relatively positive. Though as A.O. Scott commented in the New York Times, Synecdoche makes the Kaufman-written films Being John Malkovich and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind look "almost conventional."

The trailer is embedded after the jump.

(there's more)

APD reviews shooting, Schenectady getting a new police chief, luxury condos planned for Union St, SPAC still trying to revise stack of pancakes, legendary Cohoes restaurant sold

The two Albany police officers who fired three shots at a suspect Tuesday night are now on administrative leave while the APD investigates the episode. The department says a loaded gun and some crack were found in the alley where the shooting went down. Police chief James Tuffey says it appears the officers followed protocol. It's the first time the APD has fired shots on duty since a bystander was killed by a stray police bullet on New Year's Eve in 2003. [TU] [CapNews9]

A report from the Troy Police Department has criticized a "no-knock" police raid that busted down the door of an innocent women this summer and tossed a "flash bang" grenade into her apartment. The woman's attorney says the raid "scared the hell out of her." The report recommends re-organizing the unit that conducted the raid. [Troy Record] [Troy Record]

Mark Chaires will reportedly become the next police chief in Schenectady. He'll be the first African-American to hold the post. His father, Arthur Chaires, was the city's first African-American officer. The soon-to-be chief has a masters in criminology and is working toward a PhD. [Daily Gazette] [TU]

The principal of Guilderland High School has resigned. He had been on leave after accusations he had made inappropriate jokes about sexual-orientation and race. He'll be paid through the end of the year. [TU]

(there's more)

State finances hit by Wall Street meltdown, health plan accuses competitor of stealing, early SPUI construction starts, the luckiest place in the Capital Region

David Paterson says the recent investment bank meltdown on Wall Street will cost the state $1 billion in tax revenue, more or less wiping out the gains made by last month's budget-cutting special legislative session. The Gov says further budget cuts -- possibly into aid for hospitals and schools -- may be necessary. [Newsday]

Yesterday's debate between Paul Tonko and Jim Buhrmaster for the 21st Congressional District (McNulty's seat) was something less than friendly. The issues covered ranged from energy to universal health care to spending. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

Albany police say an officer shot a suspect last night in West Hill after the suspect pointed a gun at the officer. [TU]

CDPHP has filed a lawsuit against MVP alleging that a former employee, who now works for MVP, illegally took sensitive company information with him to his new job. CDPHP is suing for $10 million in damages. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

Schenectady's seventh homicide, Clifton Park tightens leash, Clinton and Schumer both in town, Troy firefighters irked, stripclub gets timeout

The 20-year-old shot in Schenectady over the weekend died Sunday night. Police say they have few, if any, clues about why he was shot. It's Schenectady's seventh homicide of the year. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

The Clifton Park town board approved a measure that requires all dogs in the town to be on leashes except on private property and in two town-managed parks, Mary Jane Row Dog Park and Kinns Road Park. To let dogs off leash at the those parks, owners will have to buy a $30 permit (which covers all of a person's dogs) . Only Clifton Park residents will be allowed to buy permits for the Mary Jane Row. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

David Paterson says the ongoing implosion among Wall Street firms could force the state re-evaluate its budget -- again. The Gov says 20 percent of New York State's revenue comes from taxes paid by Wall Street. [TU] [TU]

A Siena poll reports that Barack Obama is leading John McCain in New York by just five points. The Democratic nominee had been up by as many as 18 points earlier this summer. [Biz Review]

(there's more)

Wind knocks out power, Schenectady relatively bad at solving crimes, Assembly candidate pledges to term limit himself, local wait for a Prius, stickball champions

Last night's strong winds knocked out power for 15,000 people in the Capital Region. [TU]

It looks like Saratoga Springs might be getting a new public safety building after all. In a surprise, the city council approved a $3 million portion of the city's capital budget for the construction of a new building. That's only about half of the total expected cost. The city is now looking for ways to "creatively" finance the rest of the project. [TU]

According to city records and the federal Department of Justice, Schenectady solves relatively few burglaries, muggings and rapes. A councilman called the stats "an embarrassment." The city does do well solving murders, though. [Daily Gazette]

Jerry Jennings and Albany police chief James Tuffey met with school superintendent Eva Joseph Friday about last week's fighting. [WNYT] [CBS6]

(there's more)

Schools crunched by costs, Saratoga cops ticked off at Skidmore students, Rock Hill Bakehouse temporarily out of commission, Little Miss Albany

Most local school districts are back in session this week and they're dealing with rising costs for everything from lunches to field trips. [TU] [Saratogian]

Albany police say the suspect in last weekend's Washington Ave homicide told them he was provoked by the victim staring at him. The suspect did not admit to stabbing the victim, though. [TU]

The shots that killed a Schenectady man this past weekend were apparently fired through a door. The Schenectady PD says it isn't sure whether the victim was the intended target or not. [Daily Gazette]

A Saratoga Springs cop was injured while trying to break up a Skidmore student party Monday night. It's the second time in a year that an officer has gotten hurt on such a call. The Saratoga PD says Skidmore needs to bring the hammer down on underage student drinking. [Saratogian] [TU]

(there's more)

Track numbers a little damp, two homicides over the weekend, Live Nation blames the fans, Rt 7 construction gearing up, Albany TV market slips

Attendance at The Track this year was down almost 10 percent from last year and the amount bet was down a little more than 7 percent. [Daily Gazette]

There were two homicides over the holiday weekend. On Saturday, a 17-year-old was fatally stabbed near Beverwyck Park in Albany. It was Albany's eighth homicide of the year. On Monday, a Schenectady man was shot and killed inside a house. It was Schenectady's sixth homicide of the year. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

Live Nation, the company that runs the pop music shows at SPAC, says fans are partly to blame for miserable conditions on the lawn there. Live Nation's last concert of the year at SPAC was Crue Fest on Friday -- four people were arrested being a bit too motley. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

AMD still won't commit, some backstretch workers only make $5 per hour, woman hit by car while sitting in office, Schenectady has its pick of teachers, Saratoga restaurants short-handed

The chairman of AMD was in Malta yesterday to tour the site of the proposed chip fab plant (also there: Joe Bruno). Hector Ruiz said a decision on the project is likely to come by the end of the year. Later at a private gathering in Saratoga, Ruiz reportedly said the company is hopeful it will commit to the Malta project. [TU] [Saratogian]

The New York Department of Labor figures that 80 percent of backstretch workers at The Track have been shorted on pay. Some have been making as little as five bucks an hour. The president of a trainers association says he and other trainers thought they were in compliance with labor laws. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

The Albany Police Department detective say the suspect in the January Delaware Ave triple murder confessed to the crime and then hugged him. The suspect's attorney is trying to get the statement thrown out. [TU]

A concrete septic tank has blocked two lanes of traffic on southbound 787 at exit 9 this morning. [CBS6]

(there's more)

Something stinks on the backstretch, workers overcome by fumes, schools big into bilingual, scholarship participation yanked over scuffling football coach, paying more at the dollar store

As if shoveling horse manure all day wasn't bad enough, the New York State Department of Labor says many backstretch workers at The Track are not only not getting paid overtime, they're not even making minimum wage. The labor department says horse trainers, who employ the backstretch workers, are engaged in "widespread violations labor law." [TU]

Two workers for Precision Industrial Maintenance in Schenectady were overcome by toxic fumes yesterday when they stepped inside a tanker truck used to collect raw sewage. Both were taken to the hospital in critical condition. Precision was cited for violating workplace safety rules on a different project earlier this year. [Daily Gazette] [TU]

A plan to turn an apartment building in Troy's Little Italy neighborhood into housing for homeless people with mental illnesses is catching flak from residents of the area. They say they're worried the building could hold back the neighborhood's revitalization. [TU]

Two crime reports from locations you don't normally see them from: a stabbing in Niskayuna and shots fired in Glenmont. [CBS6] [TU]

(there's more)

Malta clears way for AMD chip fab, infamous Schenectady B&B sold, brewery scolded for serving too-big samples, the best milk in New York, horse to get key to city

The Malta Town Board approved zoning changes that clear the way for the construction of the AMD chip fab in Luther Forest. The company still hasn't officially committed to the project, though. [TU]

The infamous sex party B&B in Schenectady's Union Ave neighborhood sold yesterday at auction for $201,600 (just $33 per square foot). The new owner is a psychiatrist who will use the house for offices. The old owner is headed off to Florida in his party bus, which is equipped with a stripper pole. [Daily Gazette] [TU]

A Colonie police car was torched in the driveway of an officer's house early Monday morning. It appears some kind of flammable substance had been poured over the car's exterior. [TU]

The number of Capital Region home sales in July was down 20 percent from the same period a year before -- but the median sales price was up 2 percent to $210,000. [Biz Review]

(there's more)

Troy prostitution sting, local synchro swimmer competing today at the Olympics, on the trail of a campaign sign thief, Mr. Subb goes upscale

The Troy police busted 16 men this week during what they've described as an undercover prostitution "reverse-sting." As you might expect, there were some complaints from the busted. One guy says he didn't actually ask the undercover policewoman for, um, service (police say the same guy was arrested on the same charges last year). And another says he had a stick stuck up his nose during the arrest. [TU] [Troy Record]

After having their Schenectady store broken into eight times over three years, the owners of Funn Electronics and Keys World say they're moving back to Brooklyn, where they didn't have any trouble. They say they might stay if the city would allow them to install a metal gate that could be pulled down over the business while it's closed -- but the city doesn't allow them. [Daily Gazette]

Troy native Kim Probst is competing in synchronized swimming today at the Olympics. She's co-captain of the US team. [Troy Record]

(there's more)

Casablanca at Proctors

casablancaAttention film buffs! Grab the popcorn. Casablanca . On the big screen at Proctors. Today.

Humphrey Bogart, Ingrid Bergman and Claude Rains are at their absolute best in the 1942 classic that spawned some of the best lines in movie history (No, "play it again Sam" wasn't one of them) .

Sure you can watch it on DVD anytime, but Proctor's is just the kind of nostalgic setting it begs for. Catch it at 2:30, 5 or 7:30 P.M.

Tickets are $3 for adults and $2 for anyone 17 and under.

Final tally on budget cuts, Troy City Hall moving, Schenectady HS pegged as dangerous, cemetery ordered to bury woman in five days, visiting frat brothers may or may not have peed on couch

The final tally on the state budget cuts made by the Legislature for this year: $427 million. Combined with the $630 million already cut by David Paterson, the state budget is now $120.9 billion -- that's about $1 billion from where it started. [TU]

The Troy City Council has approved the plan to lease the Verizon Building as a replacement city hall (the current city hall is slated to be torn down for a waterfront park). Troy could be moving its offices by the end of the year, pending a study of how its new digs should be arranged. [TU] [Troy Record]

The state Ed Department has tagged Schenectady High School as "persistently dangerous." The Schenectady school school president called the label "an outrage" and said the methodology used is flawed. [Daily Gazette] [TU]

(there's more)

Soares says DWIs should lead to Alive at Five re-evaluation, charity shipments ripped off, CDTA has big plans for Schenectady, more people deciding pet care too expensive, Knicks going to Skidmore, how Marylou exercises

David Soares says Albany should "re-evaluate" the Alive at Five events after a bunch of people were arrested for DWI following last week's event. Thirty-two people were arrested during a four hour sweep following the Thursday night concert. A state police deputy says that's the highest number of arrests he can remember in such a short period of time. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

The CEO of Ellis Hospital says his org wasn't prepared for St. Clare's to be shut down two months ago. The lack of readiness has led to long waits in Ellis' emergency department. [Daily Gazette]

Three men have been charged with ripping off charity shipments from the Target in Wilton that were intended for volunteer fire companies and charitable organizations. [Daily Gazette]

CDTA says it has a plan to revamp service in Schenectady pretty much all ready to go, but it needs about $3 million from the state to make it happen. The transit org figures the expanded service will increase ridership about 40 percent. [TU]

(there's more)

Rensselaer flood damage adds up, Dare gets five years in prison, unemployment rate up, horse escapes from The Track, big year for mushrooms, Larkfest grows

The mayor of Rensselaer says the city suffered more than $20 million in damages during the flooding on Monday. He says the city doesn't have the money to cover the damages and it's looking for help from the state and federal governments. [TU]

One-time Albany community leader Aaron Dare was sentenced to more than five years in prison yesterday for his involvement in a string of fraudulent real estate deals. [TU]

The Capital Region's unemployment rate hit 5 percent in July, that's up from 4.1 percent over the same period last year. The area has had a net loss of 1,000 jobs over that period. [TU] [Biz Review]

The Governor's state police security detail will now be allowed to stop supervision of the Gov only after getting a signed order from him. The new rule was prompted by Eliot Spitzer's verbal dismissal of his security detail during his rendezvous with a prostitute in DC. [NYP]

(there's more)

Too much rain in Rensselaer, Bruno will be interfacing with officials, YouTube vigilante, tunnel found in Stockade, Curlin owner issues challenge to Big Brown

State DEC officials say it looks like the recent flooding in Rensselaer was just the result of too much rain in too short a period of time. Rensselaer city leaders had been questioning whether development in the Greenbushes had overwhelmed the area's drainage system. The National Weather Service in Albany estimates Rensselaer got up to 6 inches of rain on Monday. [TU]

Joe Bruno has registered as a lobbyist with New York State. By law, he's not allowed to lobby the legislature for two years, but he says he will be "interfacing" with officials in the executive branch for his job as CEO of a computer services company. [TU]

Time on the $100 million Blue Gene supercomputer at RPI will be available free to New York State businesses -- if they can figure out how to use it. [Biz Review] [Daily Gazette]

(there's more)

State agency commissioner's husband fired for fraud, RPI professor helping Olympic swimmers, more roundabouts planned, infamous bed and breakfast going to auction


The husband of a state agency head has been fired from his state job after investigators reported that he took almost $20,000 in pay for work he didn't actually do. Larry Ritter had been an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action officer at the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance. His, wife, Diana Jones Ritter, is the commissioner for the Office of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities. Investigators say they didn't find any wrongdoing on her part. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

The Saratoga Springs School Board has officially fired the English teacher who had been found by state ed officials to be having a platonic, but inappropriate, relationship with a student outside of school. [Daily Gazette]

An RPI engineering professor has been working with the US Olympic swimming team to refine swimmers' techniques. Timothy Wei's research has been credited with helping a US swimmer set a world record in the backstroke earlier this year. [TU]

Malta and Colonie are among the towns planning new traffic roundabouts. [CBS6]

The Schenectady bed and breakfast infamous for its swingers parties is going up for auction and everything -- yes, even the, um, equipment in the basement -- is up for sale. [TU]

Paterson proposes $1 billion in cuts, more flooding, track season all wet, principal arrested, permits for off-leash dogs, Giants coming back

David Paterson has proposed a plan to cut $1 billion in spending from the state budget. Half of that would come from Medicaid funding, $250 million from aid to local governments, and $100 million from legislative pork projects. As you might expect, legislators and lobbyists are already protesting. Local governments are also worried -- for example, Schenectady figures Paterson's plan could cut $700,000 in funding for the city. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

North Greenbush and Rensselaer were the latest parts of the Capital Region to get swamped by rain. The Amtrak line between Hudson and Rensselaer had to be closed for a while because the tracks were underwater. The 74-year-old mayor of Rensselaer said yesterday's flooding was the worst he'd ever seen in the city. A Rensselaer County legislator says the drainage systems there just haven't been able to keep up with the pace of development. [TU] [Troy Record]

Both attendance and the amount bet at the Track are down from last year at the season's midpoint. Attendance is down more than 16 percent and the "handle" is down 8 percent. [Saratogian]

(there's more)

Paterson says no to money for Albany, state archivist pleads guilting to ripping off artifacts, jobs and schools draw Asian-Americans to area, how not to fraudulently report your car stolen

David Paterson has vetoed the legislation that would have paid the City of Albany $5.5 million this year and $11 million for the next 29 years. The money was supposed to help compensate the city for state-owned property that can't be taxed, such as the Harriman Office Campus. Albany is facing a budget deficit of more than $14 million next year -- and the city comptroller says it may have to lay off people. [TU]

A fire burned through 22,000 square feet of warehouse space at the Rotterdam Corporate Park yesterday. It took more than 100 firefighters to put out the flames. A fire department official says the warehouse's fire walls and doors -- left over from the building's original use as an Army depot -- helped save the rest of the facility. [Daily Gazette]

The Saratoga Springs school superintendent says the school board will fire that teacher who had been emailing, texting and IM'ing one of his students about poetry and other topics that, in the words of the teacher, his wife found "very disturbing." [TU]

Daniel Lorello, the state archivist who had been accused of stealing state artifacts and selling them, pleaded guilty yesterday to second-degree larceny. He could get two to six years in prison. He's also been ordered to pay more than $100,000 in restitution. [TU]

SCCC will start construction on a $20 million dorm next month. The five story building will go up on Railroad Ave next to the Armory. [Daily Gazette]

Asian-Americans have been the fastest growing ethnic population in the Capital Region since 2000, according to census data. Community members say tech jobs and educational opportunities are behind the growing numbers. [TU]

Tip: if you and a friend decide late one night to smash the windows out of your car, push it into the Hudson and then report it stolen -- it helps to not be drunk and bleeding when the cops show up to take your statement. [Daily Gazette]

Soares dumps Spitzer-Bruno documents, state official recommends firing Saratoga teacher, buried in the backyard, a two million dollar horse

David Soares' office released more than 8,000 pages of documents from the investigation into the Spitzer administration's "Let's get Joe Bruno by tracking his travel on state aircraft" plot. The short story: the Spitzer admin tried to hatch the plan while keeping the former Gov publicly out of it (though he was involved behind the scenes). Also: Spitzer didn't like Bruno, which probably comes as a surprise to, well, no one. [TU]

A hearing officer for the state Department of Education has recommended that a tenured Saratoga Springs teacher be fired for having what was apparently a platonic, though weird, relationship with one of his students. The 36-year-old teacher and 14-year-old emailed, texted, and IM'ed each other about poetry and met up at places such as Uncommon Grounds. No criminal charges have been filed. [Daily Gazette] [Saratogian]

The Albany Airport Authority moved a historic house, intact, more than 200 feet yesterday in order to clear it from a safety zone. [TU]

A woman who recently moved to Schenectady's Hamilton Hill neighborhood was flipping over old patio stones in her backyard and one turned out to be... a grave stone from 1849. A local historian says most of the neighborhood was once a cemetery. Said the historian to the Gazette: "It's a great little piece of Schenectady history. I think a lot of people didn't realize they're living in a former graveyard." No, that probably wasn't in the MLS listing. [Daily Gazette]

A horse went for $2 million last night at the Fasig Tipton Selected Yearling Sale. That was the highest price paid at this year's sale. The horse has bloodlines that run back to Secretariat. [TU]

Tom Roohan -- of realty fame -- would rather you steal his horse and admire it rather than kick it. [TU] [Saratogian] [Fox23]

Fall election picture coming into focus, Schenectady hopes to turn gas into savings, Saratoga cops take on hulk, Walgreen's not getting a warm welcome, million dollar horses

It looks like Albany County DA might face opposition in the November election, after all. County Republicans are working to have attorney Roger Cusick -- who ran against Soares in 2004 -- run on the Integrity Party line. The what? Republicans waited too long to put someone on their own line, so they had to create a new one, thus Integrity. [TU]

The field of Republican candidates for the 20th Congressional District (Kirsten Gillibrand's seat) has thinned. The petitions for Mike Rocque and John Wallace were tossed, leaving Sandy Treadwell as the sole Republican. [Daily Gazette]

Schenectady is looking to generate power from methane at its sewage treatment plant. It figures the generator could cover 30 percent of the plant's power needs and save the city $282,000 on its yearly electricity bill. The city's also looking to build a $20 million dollar Department of Services (plowing, etc.) building -- the old one is literally falling down. [Daily Gazette]

ALB says a decline in flights and passengers has put the airport more than a million dollars in the hole so far this year. [TU]

Three men from downstate have been charged with ripping off 45 catalytic converters from an auto dealership in Colonie. The converters contain expensive metals such as platinum. [TU]

It took eight Saratoga cops and a tasering to subdue a guy on Caroline Street early Sunday morning. An officer's hand was broken during the scuffle. [TU]

Walgreen's is looking to expand in the Capital Region, but it's facing some opposition. Its plan for a new store at Brandywine and State in Schenectady has been criticized as too "suburban" by city officials. And after hearing about the pharmacy giant's plan to open a new store in Lansigburgh, one resident there said "Tell Walgreens to shove it." [Daily Gazette] [Troy Record]

Boscov's has filed for Chapter 11 -- it doesn't look like either of the two local stores will be closing. [TU]

Two horses went for more than a million dollars last night at the Fasig Tiption Selected Yearling Sale. [Saratogian]

Who's buried where?, biz owners circle wagons over roundabout, food pantry demand up, first local Persian restaurant planned

A woman has sued the Albany Catholic Diocese because, she says, someone else was buried in the plot intended for her mother at St. Agnes Cemetery. Just last week, a different local cemetery was found negligent for burying six people in the wrong spot. [Daily Gazette] [TU]

A group of 30 business owners in Schenectady has gotten together to fight the roundabout planned for Erie Boulevard. They're worried the roundabout will make it hard people to reach their businesses. This is the same roundabout plan that an adult bookstore owner claimed was intended to kill of his store. [Daily Gazette]

A Schenectady food bank reports that more people are visiting the pantry in need of food. It says the increase in demand seems to be related to rising prices and the slowing economy. [CBS6]

A developer is planning a roof-top Persian restaurant on the top of a 5-story building at 1 State St. in Schenectady. The developer says it will be the Capital Region's first Persian restaurant. [Daily Gazette]

The Troy Savings Bank Music Hall's main chandelier is getting an overhaul. In addition to cleaning and rewiring, workers are also installing a motorized winch to raise and lower the 800-pound lighting fixture -- it previously had to be lowered by hand every time it was cleaned. [Troy Record]

Marylou Whitney's annual ball is tonight at the Canfield Casino in Saratoga. This year's theme is "A Night in Old Hong Kong." And, you guessed it, Whitney will be arriving in a rickshaw. [Saratogian]

No consensus on how to fix budget gap, NY officially in a recession, Amedore to run again, Guilderland principal put on leave, plastic bag ban proposed, parking harder to find in Saratoga

While most public officials seemed to applaud David Paterson for emphasizing the state's fiscal problems, there isn't consensus about how to cover the budget gap. [TU]

Lunching state workers don't seem too worried about the threat of layoffs. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

And one more thing about the state fiscal situation: Paterson's budget director says the state is officially in a recession. [Biz Review]

The chairman of the SUNY Board of Trustees says the state's financial problems are an opportunity for the university system to "secure a rational tuition policy." And by "rational tuition policy," he means being able to raise tuition regularly. [TU]

George Amedore has officially announced he's running for re-election in the 105th state Assembly District (the city of Schenectady and surrounding areas). The Extreme Makeover home builder, a Republican, replaced Paul Tonko, a Democrat, last year in a special election after Tonko left to head up NYSERDA. [TU]

The woman who accused Albany police of conducting a cavity search on her during a traffic stop earlier this year has been charged with lying about the incident. The woman's friends and family say the APD's story doesn't match up. [TU]

What's going on at Guilderland High School? First the "culture climate inquiry" that led to two popular teachers being re-assigned. And now the school's principal has been put on administrative leave after he allegedly made racist and homophobic comments. [TU]

An Albany Common Councilman has proposed a ban on plastic shopping bags in the city. [TU]

Security cameras recently installed at a soup kitchen in Troy have made some of the regulars nervous. The org that runs the kitchen says the cameras became necessary after attendees were seen passing something other than the salt at meals. [Troy Record]

The number of parking spaces in downtown Saratoga is decreasing -- and it doesn't look like a trend that's going to stop anytime soon. [Daily Gazette]

Three guys were arrested in Cohoes for trying to sell stolen manhole covers and sewer grids for "a lousy $54" at a scrap yard. [Troy Record]

Earthly Delights Natural Foods on Jay Street in Schenectady is closing. The store has been open since 1974. The owners say they can't compete with larger food stores. [Daily Gazette]

Paterson says worst is yet to come, Stratton flouts residency rule for city employees, a "piddling" amount of money for butterflies, a long trip home

In his "live at five" speech yesterday, David Paterson reported that the state is now facing a $6.4 billion budget deficit -- that's up about $1.4 billion from previous estimates. The Gov also said things will get worse before they get better. So, what to do about it? Paterson didn't offer many specifics, but he did mention cutting spending at state agencies and reducing the state workforce. There are already reports that thousands of state jobs could be cut. Paterson also announced he's calling the legislature back into session on August 19 to focus on the problem. [TU] [NYT] [NYDN]

The EPA has announced that it will not pay for an alternative drinking water source for Stillwater and other communities worried about PCB levels during the upcoming Big Dredge -- or, at least, it won't as long as levels stay within established limits. Either way, the mayor of Stillwater says his town won't be drinking the water. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

The Schenectady City Council is annoyed that Brian Stratton is apparently ignoring the city's residency law for city employees. The mayor says he's just trying to hire the best people available. The council's in a tough spot here because the person in charge of carrying out city law is... the mayor. [Daily Gazette]

Albany County is looking to fire the contractor it hired to renovate the county courthouse. The project, which is two-and-a-half-years-old, is already two years behind schedule. [TU]

A fight over the Karner Blue butterfly is continuing to hold a hotel project near Crossgates Mall. The developer has agreed to pay as much as $382,000 over 50 years to help protect the butterflies, but a Save the Pine Bush advocate says that's a "piddling" amount of money. [TU]

What does it take to get a lost dog from Albany back from Montana? About $400, a good travel agent, and a lot of patience. [AP/Daily Gazette]

Will IBM follow through, pile up at the ER, eyes for Schenectady Big Brother, more people biking to work, enormous houses on Lake George

You know that big deal the state recently announced with IBM to invest in research capacity and new jobs? It appears that Big Blue doesn't always follow through on its word. [TU]

The merger between Ellis and St. Clare's hospitals has led to long waits at the Ellis emergency department. The hospital is planning to expand, but in the meantime it's encouraging people with minor injuries to go to emergency department at the former St. Clare's (now Ellis McClellan Campus), which is still open. [Daily Gazette]

The head of the Albany Convention Center Authority has quit. George Leveille says it was a good time to leave because there's a "lull" in the action. That lull would be uncertainty about whether there will be enough state funding to complete the project. [Biz Review] [TU]

Schenectady's crime surveillance cameras now have people watching the feeds from them, at least part of the time. [Daily Gazette]

An Albany County legislator wants to pass a law that would make adults responsible when they knowingly allow minors to consume alcohol on their property, even if they didn't serve it. [TU]

The rewards for information about the two recent cat abuse cases in Troy have grown again. [TU]

Cycling groups and bike shops report that more people are biking to work because of high gas prices. [Daily Gazette]

There's a gas price war going on just off the Northway at Exit 10 in Clifton Park. [TU]

Yep, those were two F-15s flying over the area this past weekend. They were on a training mission from Massachusetts. [CBS6]

A breeding program is helping to prop up the local population of Karner Blue butterflies. [Daily Gazette]

The rich are different from the rest of us. One more reason: they have bigger houses on Lake George. [TU]

Spitzer aides accused of breaking ethics laws, gun buyback in Troy, Colonie EMTs upset about being grounded, lower gas prices if you pay cash

A report from the State Commission on Public Integrity says four former Eliot Spitzer aides violated state ethics laws while taking part in the "Let's get Joe Bruno by using the State Police to track his travel on state aircraft" plot. The report left the former governor off the hook, a move that some are calling a "whitewash." [NYT] [TU]

Dean Skelos, the new State Senate leader, was at The Track yesterday and said he gives his "commitment" that he would continue Joe Bruno's upstate economic development projects, including the proposed AMD chip fab at Luther Forest. [Daily Gazette]

The Albany gun buyback program is being expanded to Troy. (Earlier on AOA: The Albany gun buyback: buyer's remorse?) [TU]

The Troy police chief is in the running to head up the police force in Marco Island, Florida. [TU]

Colonie EMTs are protesting the town's decision to discontinue the medics' participation with State Police rescue flights around the region. Paula Mahan, the town supervisor, says Colonie needs the resources focused on the town. [WNYT]

Gas stations around the region are starting to offer lower prices to people who pay with cash. The stations says credit card transaction fees are taking a big bite out of their revenue. [Daily Gazette]

The head of the Metroplex Development Authority in Schenectady says the Big House night club project is back on track. [Daily Gazette]

Flooding from all the recent rain damaged the wood floor at the HVCC sports complex, probably closing the facility for the rest of the summer. HVCC is hoping it can save the floor -- a replacement would cost about $200,000. [Troy Record]

Rain and lots of it, shots fired near Union College, Saratoga cops accused of "inhuman" treatment, Albany DA's office threatened with having allowance taken away

As much as three-and-a-half inches of rain have dropped on parts of the Capital Region over the last day and a half. Schenectady County has declared a state of emergency because of flooding. High water closed the Thruway between exit 25 and 26 (the 890 exits) for a few hours. [Daily Gazette]

An 18-year-old has been charged with attempted murder after police say he fired shots yesterday at the intersection of Union Avenue and Union Street in Schenectady -- just outside the gate to Union College. [Daily Gazette]

The Saratoga Springs police department has been accused of "cruel and inhuman" treatment after it allegedly left a guy handcuffed to a ring in the holding area for eight hours. The Saratoga police haven't able to use their holding cells since last October because of renovation work. [TU]

The Albany County comptroller has recommending taking the Albany County DA office's petty cash away until it can prove it can handle the money better. [TU]

Local heating oil prices could be up 25 percent this year. [Saratogian]

After replacing a water fountain they'd vowed never to repair again because it had been broken so many times, Schenectady parks officials have been amazed to see it's gone undamaged for a whole month. Thirsty children and basketball players rejoice. [Daily Gazette]

CEO Bruno, legislator uses "judo hold" on tenant, commissioner says Schenectady cops need their gas guzzlers

Today's the opening day at The Track. Bring an umbrella.

Papa Joe's got a brand new bag. As expected, Joe Bruno has taken a job with CMA Consulting, an IT company. He'll be the CEO of the company. CMA has done millions of dollars of business with New York State over the last few years -- and watchdogs are saying Bruno should get "ethical guidance" from the Commission on Public Integrity. But Bruno says his goal at CMA is to expand the business and doesn't plan to focus on drumming up new contracts from the state. [TU] [Daily Gazette] [NYT]

Brian Scavo, the Albany County legislator who's been charged with stalking a woman, will be appearing in court this week after an alleged scuffle with a tenant. Apparently one man's "judo hold" is another's "choking." [TU]

Wayne Bennett, the Schenectady Public Safety Commissioner, has put the brakes on a recommendation that the city replace some of its Crown Vic police cruisers with more fuel efficient cars (the current cruisers get 8 mpg). Bennett says the cars get terrible gas mileage because they're always idling in order to provide power to officers' laptops and radio. He also says alternative cars aren't big enough. [Daily Gazette]

Wall Street trouble could lead to state shortfall, Schenectady to buy back guns, UAlbany student held in Iran, express train to NYC could be arriving soon

David Paterson issued another warning that the state will be facing a significant financial shortfall this year because of the slowing economy. Problems in the financial sector, and thus Wall Street, are expected to take a big bite out of state revenues. [TU]

Schenectady will use state money to fund a gun buyback program that will also offer reward money for tips leading the seizure of illegal guns. The buyback program will give people $100 for every illegal gun turned in. [Daily Gazette]

NYRA is still in bankruptcy and it sounds like it won't be emerging any time soon. The org was just granted its sixth temporary racing extension by the state. [Daily Gazette]

A UAlbany public health student and his brother -- both doctors -- have been detained in Iran. The brothers had been working on HIV/AIDS prevention programs in their home country. [TU]

An express train from the Rensselaer station to New York City could begin service this fall. [TU]

The rewards for info leading to the arrest of the people involved in two brutal cat killings in Troy are growing -- they're now at $4,500 and $2,000. [Troy Record]

According to a state report, second home buyers and "suburban gentrification" are pushing up home prices in Saratoga, Washington, Warren and Greene counties. The report also says the biggest real estate issue facing Troy, Schenectady and Albany are the cities' abandoned buildings. [TU]

An energy expert has told the City of Schenectady that it should dump its Crown Victoria police cruisers for more fuel-efficient cars. The Crown Vics currently in use get just 8 miles per gallon. [Daily Gazette]

AMD chip fab "full steam ahead," violent crime in Schenectady down, Bruno takes victory lap, horse slaughter protest planned

The AMD chip fab project proposed for Luther Forest appears to still be on track despite a change in leadership at the company and a huge quarterly loss. Chuck Schumer says the both the old and new CEO told him the Luther Forest project is "full steam ahead." Of course, AMD has still not definitively committed to the project, yet. [TU]

Violent crime is down in Schenectady over the last two years. Officials are attributing the decline to a state program that's put up money for more patrols and intelligence gathering. The city's about to get $900k more from the program. [Daily Gazette]

Two people were sent to the hospital by a lightning strike Friday evening at the Saratoga County Fair. It looks like the lightning hit a pine tree under which they were standing. [Daily Gazette]

Joe Bruno led a bus tour/victory lap around the Capital Region Friday afternoon for the media. Among the stops: Joe Bruno Stadium and the Joe Bruno bust at ALB. The very last scrap of Bruno bacon may have come in the form of an ice cream the now-former state Senator bought for a little kid at the Rennselaer train station. [TU]

A group opposed to horse slaughter for human consumption is planning to protest at the opening of The Track on Wednesday. [Saratogian]

Two Starbucks in the Capital Region will be closing: 1818 Central Ave. in Colonie (near Kohl's) and 2441 Watt St. in Schenectady. [Business Review]

The Capital District Federation of Ideas is giving up Point 5, its headquarters on Madison Ave in Albany. CDFI has been having trouble covering the rent. It's hoping to use the money it had been putting toward rent into other projects. [TU]

What your neighbors are watching tonight

burbs movie posterAccording to Netflix, here are the DVDs that people in the Capital Region are currently renting "much more than other Netflix members."

Albany
The 'Burbs
We were surprised, too. Tom Hanks and suburban hijinks from 1989.

Schenectady
24: Season 3
Jack Bauer kicks a heroin habit in, like, three hours.

Troy
Ghost Rider
Nicholas Cage is on fire. And he rides a motorcycle.

Saratoga Springs
The Ringer
Johnny Knoxville tries to rig the Special Olympics.


The top five for each city after the jump...

(there's more)

Bruno's leaving this week, concrete drivers back behind the wheel, poster board broken out in Saratoga public safety building fight, Peerless Pool opening soon

Joe Bruno has announced he will officially leave his state Senate seat this Friday. Bruno says he's not "the kind of guy to retire and just play with horses and golf and whatever else is there" -- he will reportedly take a job with CMA Consulting Services, a firm whose clients include many New York State agencies. [Daily Gazette] [TU]

One more detail about that $1.5 billion IBM chip fab research deal: RPI and its $100 million supercomputer will be involved with research into how to encase the chips and connect them to computers. [Daily Gazette]

A group of concrete truck drivers have ended their strike after their union agreed to a new four year deal. The drivers had been out for a week, which put a snag in a handful of construction projects. [TU]

The owner of steel manufacturing company in Schenectady says a proposed roundabout for Erie Blvd might bump him from the city because his adult video bookstore owning landlord -- who says the roundabout is a plot to get him -- would be forced to take over his space. [Daily Gazette]

Ron Kim, the Saratoga Springs Public Safety Commissioner, has unveiled what he calls a "failure-o-meter" to keep track of how long it takes the city council to issue bonds for the new public safety building. The city's finance commissioner, who ultimately must issue the bonds, says Kim hasn't provided him with all the necessarily details about costs. [Saratogian]

CDTA will stop exchanging tokens at the end of this month. The authority stopped accepting the tokens for fares in January. [TU]

The Peerless Pool at Spa State Park is expected to open Friday, three weeks after its originally scheduled opening. [Daily Gazette]

The price of a ticket

parking_ticket.jpg

Don't let this happen to you.

So you're having a great time at lunch or you're stuck in a meeting, but the time is almost up on that parking meter you popped your last quarter into. You're tempted to leave it to chance but if the parking gods aren't with you, what will it cost? A parking violation in the Capital Region can run you anywhere from $10 to around $200.

A few weeks ago we learned that an alternate parking violation in A-Town carries a $65 fine, even if you're caught switching sides a few minutes early. Most folks learn the price of a ticket the hard way. So we thought we'd try and save you a couple of bucks and a whole lot of trouble by posting the fines from Albany, Schenectady, Troy and Saratoga. Here's what we found:

(there's more)

School board walks out, money donated to Thomas family, it really was a rainy June, 12-year-old accused of stealing cars, Adelphi for sale

Hundreds of people showed up at the Guilderland School Board meeting last night to protest the transfer of two popular social studies teachers. Then the school board walked out of the public forum. [TU]

A meeting Tuesday night of the Albany Gun Violence Task Force provided more evidence that the community and law enforcement officials have trust issues. [TU]

The philanthropist who put up the bulk of the money for the Kathina Thomas reward has given $5000 to the girl's family. Rudy Ciccotti decided to give the money to the family after the APD didn't indicate anyone should receive the reward. [CBS6]

Lester Freeman is reportedly dropping out of the race for the 21st Congressional District (McNulty's seat). That still leaves eight Democrats and two Republicans in the race. [CapNews9] [AOA]

Yes, it has been a rainier-than-usual June. We've gotten about 45 percent more rain than in an average June. [Daily Gazette]

The City of Schenectady says it's out of money for graffiti removal. So a group of people of the Stockade and East Front Street neighborhoods pooled their money and painted over a bunch of graffiti themselves. [Daily Gazette]

The Saratoga Springs city council has approved a taxi fuel surcharge. The fee will range from 60 cents to $1.85 per person. [Fox23]

Albany police say a 12-year-old has stolen three cars during the last week. Apparently he's a pretty good driver. [TU]

The Adelphi Hotel in Saratoga is up for sale. List price: almot $7.8 million. [TU]

Keehn says she's in the running, Jimino says she's not, Timmons case criticized, gun buyback expanding, when is a massage more than a massage?

Valerie Keehn, the former Democratic mayor of Saratoga Springs, has confirmed that she is collecting signatures in order to run for Joe Bruno's seat. Kathy Jimino, the Republican Rensselaer County executive, says she will not be getting into the race. [Saratogian] [Troy Record]

An advocacy group says the case of Jermayne Timmons, the 15-year-old who allegedly fired the shot that killed Kathina Thomas, was mishandled by police and prosecutors. It says Timmons waived his Miranda rights without a lawyer. [Daily Gazette]

The organizer of the Albany gun buyback says the program will be expanding to Schenectady. (Earlier on AOA: The Albany gun buyback: buyer's remorse?) [WTEN]

Believe it or not, people advertise "massages" and other similar services on Craigslist that are actually a bit more than that. And as local law enforcement found out, sometimes you to have experience it firsthand to confirm that. [TU] [Troy Record]

A Dubai firm has bought the Fasig-Tipton riding stable, auction house and other land in Saratoga for $5.7 million. [Business Review]

Joe Bruno leaving state Senate, adult bookstore owner says roundabout is plot to get him, new food at The Track, Travers chases Big Brown

Joe Bruno has announced he's not running for re-election. His decision is being described as "unexpected and stunning." In a statement, Bruno said it was "time to move on." It looks like Assemblyman Roy McDonald, who represents an area around Wilton, is the leading Republican choice for Bruno's seat (Brian Premo, a Democrat, is already in the race). Capital Region leaders are already mourning the loss of all the pork Bruno sent in this direction. [TU] [NYDN] [Daily Politics] [Daily Politics] [AOA] [TU]

The Albany County Board of Elections is cutting the number of polling places from 72 to 49. An elections commissioner says the consolidation will reduce the cost of new federally-mandated voting machines. Critics say the reduction will make it harder for elderly and people without cars to vote. [TU]

The owner of the Dewitt Clinton (the building just across from the capitol at State and Eagle) is continuing its push to evict tenants so that it can redevelop the building into a hotel. One of the tenants is the State Room, a banquet hall, which has been getting calls from worried couples who have made wedding plans there. [TU]

The owner of an adult bookstore in Schenectady says the plan for roundabout on Erie Boulevard is just an attempt to get rid of his store. His building would have to be demolished in order to contstruct the traffic circle. [Daily Gazette]

Five Saratoga restaurants will be selling food at The Track this summer: Hattie's, Brindisi's, Grey Gelding, Panza's, and 1 Caroline Street/Mouzon House. [Saratogian]

NYRA is trying to convince the owners of Big Brown, the horse that won the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness, to run in the Travers. [Daily Gazette]

Big rigs roll at capitol, gun buyback to expand, stop that bat, Schenectady decides downtown is electrifying

More than 100 big rigs made a loop around the capitol as part of a protest against high taxes, tolls and diesel prices yesterday. And this being Albany, the event featured its fair share of political name calling and finger pointing. And Joe Bruno drove a big rig. [TU] [Saratogian]

The church running the Albany gun buyback says it's collected 17 guns. And now it looks like Albany County DA's office will start a similar program. [CapNews9] (Earlier on AOA: The Albany gun buyback: buyer's remorse?)

The state Department of Health is urging people to capture any bats that may have come in contact with people or pets. There's a nationwide shortage of human rabies vaccines and public health officials want to make sure it's only used for people who have come in contact with a rabid animal. [Daily Gazette]

The CEO of NYRA says the racing association will be profitable by 2010. It lost $34.4 million last year. And its franchise agreement with the state still isn't finalized. [Saratogian]

Troy has approved an installment plan for Rensselaer to pay off the rest of its $2.1 million water debt. [TU]

Schenectady leaders have decided to call the city's downtown entertainment and arts district around State and Jay ElectriCity. [Business Review]

There won't be a bobblehead giveaway this year at The Track. [Saratogian]

Lots of illegal guns, corroded wires caused manhole cover explosions, water stays on for Rennselaer, damaged apples, a really big wind turbine

According to federal stats from last year, the number of seized illegal guns per resident in Albany and Schenectady was higher than that of New York City. There are two ways to look at this. Half-full: police here are getting better at finding illegal guns. Half-empty: there are a lot of illegal guns on the streets. [TU]

Prosecutors say Jermayne Timmons, the 15-year-old accused of firing the shot that killed Kathina Thomas, wrote an apology letter to Thomas' mother. From the letter Timmons allegedly wrote: "I am so sorry that the gun I shot is the gun that could have takeing your baby girl away from you." [Daily Gazette]

An aide at a state facility in Schenectady has been charged with a misdemeanor for allegedly punching a blind autistic woman after the woman spilled the aide's salad. [Daily Gazette]

The Troy city engineer says the manhole-cover-popping explosions earlier this year were caused by arcing underground cables that had been corroded by road salt and water. [TU]

The City of Rennselaer has paid Troy for its water use over the last two years, and Troy Mayor Harry Tutunjian is no longer threatening to cut off Rennselaer's water supply. Still at issue: years of unpaid water bills from before 2006. [TU] [Troy Record]

Saratoga Springs is renovating its jails cells and needs someplace to put prisoners while the work is being done. The current solution: handcuffing the arrested to hooks in the booking area. [Daily Gazette]

Thomas D'Ambra, the CEO of Albany Molecular Research Inc, was the Capital Region's highest paid CEO last year. [TU]

The hail storm this week damaged apple crops. One farm in Columbia County says it suffered $1 million in damage. [Fox23]

GE wants to build a 400-foot-tall wind turbine just of I-890 in Rotterdam. [Daily Gazette]

It looks like Saratoga Springs will not be getting its first roundabout just yet. [Saratogian]

Gun buy back program, New Yorkers support tax cap, Schenectady cops say they're well trained but fat, how to improve Spa Park, pluck while you wait

A church in Albany is offering to ""buy back" guns from people in the community in exchange for a $150 mall gift certificate. The program was prompted by the "community gun" that allegedly was used to fire the shot that killed Kathina Thomas. [TU]

A Siena poll reports that 74 percent of New Yorkers support a 4 percent annual cap on school property taxes. David Paterson has said he supports the idea, but the other Two Men in the Room don't appear to be on board. [AP/Troy Record]

All complaints about the APD will now go to the Citizens' Police Review Board -- whether the person filing the complaint wants it to or not. The department has been accused of holding back complaints by persuading people to withold their grievances from the board. [TU]

A Schenectady city councilwoman has blasted the SPD's plan to use $41,000 to hire a wellness coach to help officers lose weight. Denise Brucker says the money should be used for training, for which it was originally budgeted. The police seem to think that's not necessary, though. "I think our department is one of the most well-trained," an assistant chief told the Gazette. [Daily Gazette]

Among the more popular ideas to come up at a public meeting about how to improve Spa State Park: a fenced-in dog park, and an extended season for the Victoria and Peerless pools. [Daily Gazette]

Wilton is the hot spot for new home construction in the Capital Region. [TU]

An archaelogical survey has started at the site of the proposed Albany Convention Center. The overall plan is still on hold because it needs an additional $190 million from the state. [Daily Gazette]

A Guyanese immigrant is hoping to open a live butcher shop in Schenectady by the end of the summer. When open, the shop would allow you to walk in, pick your chicken (as it still clucks), and have it butchered immediately. [Daily Gazette]

Rowdiness and vandalism close schools, Colonie hopes to one-time its deficit, Niskayuna bans smoking in parks, whistle blown on scuffling football coach

Classes were South Colonie schools are also out today after vandals sprayed fire extinguishers all over the inside of the district's buses. [TU] [TU]

A 17-year-old was shot in the leg last night at the corner of Central and Lake in Albany. The police are looking for two men, who reportedly took off on bikes after firing the shot. [WNYT] [CBS6]

The Colonie Town Board has approved a one-time tax aimed at helping the town dig out of its $18 million deficit. Most homeowners there would end up paying less $250. Now the state Legislature has to approve the tax. [TU]

The Niskayuna Town Board voted to ban smoking at pretty much all of its outdoor facilities. The ban takes effect July 1. [TU]

The Schenectady High head football coach pleaded guilty yesterday to beating a man in an Italian restaurant. It appears that name calling started the scuffle between the two men, who are both in their 50s. [Daily Gazette]

The Daily Gazette is laying off six people, three of them in the newsroom. [Business Review]

Note: the web sites for the Troy Record and Saratogian were off-line this morning.

Teen charged in Kathina Thomas shooting, school tax cap going nowhere, Schenectady cops to get a coach, a good year for syrup

Police have arrested a 15-year-old for firing the shot that killed Kathina Thomas. Jermayne Timmons, an Albany High student, was charged Tuesday night. No one from his family accompanied him to the arraignment. As person said to the Gazette of Timmons, "He's only a kid himself." And what about the more than $20,000 in reward money? APD chief James Tuffey says it didn't play much of a role. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

Oscar Mora, ane of the organizers of that big drug operation in Schenectady (the one with wich the former police chief Greg Kaczmarek's wife was allegedly involved), accepted a plea deal yesterday and was sentenced to 20 years in prison. Schenectady County Judge Karen Drago scolded Mora for "polluting" the community. [Daily Gazette] [TU]

It looks like a state cap on school property taxes isn't going to happen during this legislative session. [Daily Gazette]

Schenectady is going to spend $40,000 over the next year-and-a-half to hire a wellness coach in an attempt to help its cops lose weight. [TU]

The Town of Malta is trying to sort out whether it's OK to keep a pet horse in your backyard. [Daily Gazette]

This year apparently had a great maple syrup season. The weather was "just right" according to one producer. [Daily Gazette]

Secret gambling clubs that may not be so secret, no challenge from Clyne, guy robbed for bag of clothes, Woodlawn Preserve not actually off-limits, extreme road rage

We're shocked, shocked to find that gambling is going on in this town! Gambling? No, no, no, it's just a Roman Empire history club. [TU] [TU]

Former Albany County DA Paul Clyne says he won't be challenging current DA David Soares this time around. The race between between the two got pretty nasty four years ago when Soares beat Clyne -- his former boss -- in the Democratic primary, and there had been speculation Clyne was looking to make a comeback. [TU]

Jimmy Tedisco is one of five state lawmakers who have sued David Paterson over his directive to state agencies that they recognize same sex-marriages from other states. The suit is being back by an organization from Arizona that works to oppose same sex-marriages around the country. [NYT]

A guy got robbed -- and shot in the chest -- this week near Lincoln Park in Albany for the bag of clothes he was carrying and $200. [Daily Gazette]

St. Clare's Hospital will stop taking on many types of cases next week as it prepares to merge with Ellis and Bellevue. [Daily Gazette]

Schenectady's Woodlawn Preserve nature area has been closed to the public for the last six years. Or, at least, that's what everyone thought. It turns out that those "No Trespassing" signs probably should have said something else. [Daily Gazette]

After being cut off in traffic, who hasn't yelled a pointed phrase or gestured emphatically at the offending driver. Nothing wrong with that. But pointing an assault rifle at your fellow commuters on I-90 is probably over the line. [CBS6]

Kathina Thomas reward increases, Schenectady cops have a lot of arresting to do, Paterson supports tax cap, Bruno gets a challenger, testy judge rebuked

The reward for information on the shooter in the Kathina Thomas case is now $17,000. The APD says it's made the case a top priority, but there's nothing to report so far. [TU]

Eeny, meeny, miny, moe, whom should the Schenectady police arrest today? It turns out they have a lot of options -- about 1000, in fact. That's how many unexecuted arrest warrants -- 200 of them for felonies -- have piled up with the SPD. Part of the problem: your email program has better sorting functions than the department's warrants database. [Daily Gazette]

David Paterson says he'll push for the four percent school property tax cap proposed this week by a state commission. [Daily Gazette]

Brian Premo has officially announced that he will challenge Joe Bruno for his state Senate seat. Premo, running as a Democrat, says the state has to stop being run by "three men in a room." The Bruno people had talking points at the ready, calling Premo "inexperienced" and a "flip-flopper." [Troy Record] [TU]

Joseph Sullivan has announced he's running for the 21st Congressional District (McNulty's seat). Sullivan will be running as a Democrat -- he ran for Albany mayor as a Republican two years ago. (AOA's Local Congressional Race Scorecard) [Daily Gazette]

The new public safety building proposed for Saratoga Springs could cost as much as $11.7 million. [Saratogian]

You know how judges on TV shows are always scolding people and holding them in contempt of court? Apparently that doesn't go over so well in real life. [TU]

Reward for identity of West Hill shooter, teen saves baby, a challenger for Amedore, homecoming queen election intrigue

An Albany church is offering $1000 to anyone who can identifiy the person who shot and killed 10-year-old Kathina Thomas in West Hill Thursday night. Police think Thomas was hit by a stray bullet. [Daily Gazette]

An 18-year-old was shot twice in the head near Schenectady's Central Park Saturday. The teenager, who was visiting from Maryland, is Schenectady's third homicide this year and the seventh for the Capital Region. [Daily Gazette]

An Albany teenager saved a baby from being run over by a bus Friday afternoon. Tyler Purvis-Mitchell, who's 14, spotted the five-day-old baby after it had fallen out of its carriage while being loaded onto the bus. [TU]

Police say a guy robbed a bank at Stuyvesant Plaza the Town Center Plaza in Guilderland (the plaza at Johnston Rd across from the mall), was then chased through Colonie and Menands, and then nabbed in the parking lot of the VA hospital on Holland Ave. in Albany. [Daily Gazette]

Schenectady city councilman and Democrat Mark Blanchfield announced he'll challenge Republican George Amedore for the 105th Assembly District seat (that's Paul Tonko's old seat). Amedore was elected in a special election last year after Tonko left to head up NYSERDA. [Daily Gazette]

RPI will knock down 13 buildings in the neighborhood surrounding EMPAC. [TU]

Benita Johnson won her third consecutive Freihofer's Run for Women Saturday -- and then found out her dad had just died. [TU]

Was an openly gay student elected homecoming queen at Hudson High? Students say yes, the administration says no. [TU]

A fifth-grader in Saratoga has raised $650 to buy mosquito nets for people in Africa. She decided to raise the money -- she's aiming for $1000 -- after seeing a segment about malaria on an "Idol Gives Back" episode of "American Idol." [Saratogian]

State agencies told to recognize same-sex marriages, college campus goes completely smoke-free, more development in Troy, trolley tours for Schenectady

David Paterson has directed state agencies to recognize same-sex marriages from other states. The directive is said to be an indication that the governor will at some point push for legalization of the marriages here in New York. [NYT]

Five years ago a safe with thousands in cash, rare gold coins and $2 million in bearer bonds was stolen from an office building near the Port of Albany. An arrest in the case was finally made last week just before the statute of limitations kicked in. Police picked up one person, though they believe three more are at large. A guy who reportedly helped open the safe says it -- and the millions in bonds -- ended up at the bottom of the Hudson. [TU]

Maria College is going to a totally smoke-free campus. It will be the first college or university in the region to do so. [Daily Gazette]

That huge building across the street (444 River St) from the outdoor farmers' market site in Troy is being developed into apartments, live/work spaces and retail spots. [TU]

SCCC wants to take over the castle-like Schenectady Armory after it's vacated by the New York National Guard. The school would use the space for athletic facilities. [Daily Gazette]

The Capital Region's carbon footprint per person ranks right in the middle among the nation's 100 biggest metros, according to the Brookings Institution. [TU]

The company that runs the Albany Aqua Ducks will start trolley tours of Schenectady this summer. [TU]

Rensselaer Iron Works coming down, Paterson up for another surgery, McNulty says he's replaceable, Central Ave reconstruction to begin, elm trees coming back

The Rennselaer Iron Works building in south Troy is being demolished after a massive fire there over the weekend. Fire officials say it was arson. [Troy Record] [TU]

After have surgery to relieve pressure in his left eye early last week, David Paterson had the same procedure performed on his other eye Friday. And it looks like he'll be in more surgery later this summer. (Earlier on AOA: what happens if something happens to David Paterson.) [NYT]

Mike McNulty says he's just an average guy who made into Congress because he worked hard. The soon-to-be-former Congressman, who describes himself as replaceable, says he'll be looking for a job outside of Washington come next year. Presumably his slate will continue to include announcing Green Island Little League games. [TU]

Albany city attorneys are urging the common council to hold up plans to borrow almost $7 million dollars to expand the city dump (which will soon be full). The attorneys say the city should wait until the state finishes its environmental review of the plan. [TU]

The high price of oil -- and thus asphalt -- is leading to fewer road construction projects around the region this summer. [Daily Gazette]

Not being held back: the big Central Avenue reconstruction. It's scheduled to begin this week. [TU]

Another 84 units are being added to the Paddocks of Saratoga luxury apartment complex. [Daily Gazette]

Schenectady is looking to plant elm trees again now that disease-resistant strains are available. All of the city's elm trees were wiped out 70 years agao by Dutch elm disease. [Daily Gazette]

Truckers protest, cotton candy guy situation gets stickier, Schenectady hires former cops for Big Brother duty, stickball in Troy

Truckers protested high diesel prices yesterday by... burning diesel on a big rig drive from Northway Exit 17 to Exit 16. [Saratogian]

Remember that guy in Colonie who had been accused of handing out cotton candy that, probably unknown to him, was tainted with ant poison? Well, the cotton candy situation led police to search his home and they say they found pot and an illegal knife. The cotton candy guy says he's being smeared for his criticism of town government. [TU]

Schenectady has hired a trio of retired cops to monitor surveillance camera feeds from around the city. [Daily Gazette]

Trey Anastastio, of Phish fame, apparently was a star student in Washington County drug court and will graduate next month. That means he'll avoid jail time. [TU]

Break out those pinkies and cut down that broomstick, stickball is back in Troy. [Troy Record]

Congressional race drama for Albany Dems, Troy mayor says Rensselaer's all wet, something's rotten in Clifton Park, the neighborhood where you gotta pick up your own pizza

The race for the 21st Congressional District (McNulty's seat) has Albany County Democrats divided. The party committee endorsed Phil Steck last night, but only after about half of the members walked out of the meeting. The walk-outs, most of them from the City of Albany, didn't want to endorse anyone ahead of the primary. There are eight Democrats running for the nomination. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

The mayor of Rensselaer is offering to settle the city's water deb with Troy by sending a check $1.59 million and $150,000 each year for the next seven years. Troy mayor Harry Tutunjian says Rensselaer owes a lot more than that and called the neighboring city "deadbeats." [TU]

It seems that a composting facility in Clifton Park really stinks -- in more ways than the obvious (though the obvious seems pretty bad). [TU]

Sections of Spa State Park will be allowed to grow wild in an effort to reduce costs and "improve sustainability." A member of a park advocacy group called the plan "ridiculous," though a park naturalist contends the wild areas will be pretty. [Saratogian] [TU]

The Mont Pleasant neighborhood in Schenectady is apparently the Bermuda Triangle of pizza deliveries. Many pizzerias have stopped delivering there after multiple robberies and weirdness. Just this week a delivery guy was robbed at taser-point (taser-prong?). [Fox23]

Thumbelina, the world's smallest horse, and her Thumbymobile visited the Children's Hospital at AMC yesterday. [Daily Gazette]

Graduations, school budget increases, discounts on heroin, bickering in Troy, dress codes at The Track

UAlbany, RPI, Skidmore and Siena all held gradations this past weekend. [TU] [TU] [Saratogian] [Troy Record]

Stillwater police have accused a Watervliet man of holding a woman captive for three weeks. [WNYT]

On average, proposed school budgets in the Capital Region are up more than 6 percent from last year. Proposed property tax increases aren't quite as high, though, because some of the new spending is being offset by money from the state. The vote on school district budgets is tomorrow. [TU]

The Schenectady drug operation that allegedly involved the former police chief's wife continues to provide story fodder. The latest details: dealers worked on schedules and argued whether it was fair that one dealer got one of the ring's phones every weekend, sales locations changed frequently, and you had to buy five bags of heroin to get a discount. [Daily Gazette]

A developer says the seemingly constant fighting between Troy mayor Harry Tutunjian and the city council is hurting economic development in the city. The developer says government officials need to start acting like "gentlemen." (No, there aren't any women on the Troy City Council.) [Troy Record]

Apparently any reference to 9/11 is off-limits when making a custom New York license plate. References to Osama Bin Laden are also a no-no. [TU]

Dress codes at The Track might be easing. A little. The new rules will be announced in June. [Daily Gazette]

Cracking jokes not a crime, food costs strain charity, ticked off firefighters, combative legislators, senate-raised pork

Legal experts say it's unlikely that former Schenectady police chief Greg Kaczmarek will face charges related to the busted drug operation in which his wife and stepson were allegedly involved. It seems that cracking jokes about your spouse's drug shipments isn't actually a crime. [TU]

A guy in Halfmoon was sentenced to 60 days in jail for neglecting to treat an inch-deep wound around his dog's neck. Apparently one of his children had put a rubber band on the dog, which led to the injury. (PS: Snowball -- a purebred Samoyed -- is now available for adoption.) [TU]

High food costs and slow business have prompted half of the restaurants originally slated to participage in today's Hunger Action Networks' Feast for Famine to back out. [Daily Gazette]

The firefighters union in Troy has asked its members to not work overtime for RPI's commencement ceremony. The union is ticked off that RPI president Shirley Jackson hasn't met with them to discuss concerns about fires that could pontentially involve lab chemicals or tight spaces. [TU]

Local legislators -- they're just like us! They bicker over money! They call each other names! (OK, on second thought, maybe they're not like us.) [Troy Record] [Troy Record]

Pork is being served up this week by the New York Senate. Among the items once described by Eliot Spitzer as "dripping with fat": $4 million for Skidmore's Zankel Music Center and $6 million for semiconductor training at HVCC . [TU]

SPAC is getting a new $2.5 million facade for its ampitheater. [Saratogian]

Lemon ice at Civitello's

Civitello's lemon ice

Can you see the specks of lemon zest?

The sign in the window was so simple: "Try our lemon ice... it's refreshing!" It also turned out to be absolutely true. The Italian ice at Civitello's is both lemony and refreshing.

(there's more)

Meat recall, sick leave that never ends, affordable housing friction, capitalize that Capital

Price Chopper has recalled packages of its store-brand ground beef patties because hard plastic pieces may have fallen into the meat. [TU]

Details continue to surface about the drug ring that allegedly involved the former Schenectady police chief and his wife. It seems the ring had some operational issues. Police were were able to lift a shipment from one of the operation's mules -- without her even realizing it at the time. She thought she was just getting a field sobriety test, apparently. And that drug transporter's boyfriend? He got nabbed by the cops when he showed up to visit her in jail this past weekend. [Daily Gazette] [Daily Gazette]

A Schenectady cop has been calling in sick for the last two years, which apparently he is well within his rights to do. Now the city council is appealing to the state legislature to allow them to offer the officer a retirement deal. [Daily Gazette]

A plan to build affordable housing in Saratoga Springs is meeting opposition. [Saratogian]

The number of available seats on flights departing from ALB has fallen 10 percent from a year ago. That means crowded planes and higher fares. [TU]

A private Montessori grade school is opening this Fall in Schenectady. [Daily Gazette]

A "superhero of language" visited the Capital Region Monday and found residents a little cool to his grammatical assistance. (He also doesn't seem to know that "Capital Region" should be capitalized.) [TU]

Birthday cocaine, crime in the student ghetto, the gas tax and Plato, the new Tulip Queen

What do you get for that special ex-police chief in your life on his birthday? A shipment of cocaine, apparently. [Daily Gazette]

A map of crimes involving UAlbany students compiled by the TU paints a not-so-pretty picture of life off campus. [TU]

Using the obligatory "Look, I'm at a gas station because we're talking about gas prices" photo op, state assembly minority leader Jim Tedisco announced he's (or someone) collecting signatures for a petition supporting the "gas tax holiday." Sheldon Silver and David Paterson both oppose the temporary suspension of the tax. [Troy Record] [TU]

Speaking of Paterson, he gave the commencement speech for the College of Saint Rose this past weekend because "the lieutenant governor couldn't be be here." The governor also told the crowd that people pushing the gas tax holiday are following shadows instead of light. (Yep, that's a Plato reference.) [Daily Gazette]

The mysterious collapse of honey bee colonies is making things tough for apple growers around the area. It seems there were just enough bees to go around this year to pollinate the apple trees. [Daily Gazette]

Sarah Volk is the new Tulip Queen. [WNYT]

Former Schenectady police chief named in drug indictment, Buzz dumps Schenectady, Siena and UAlbany keep rivalry alive, Saratoga horses in the big city

The name of former Schenectady police Gregory Kaczmarek has come in a drug operation indictment. Kaczmarek himself wasn't indicted, but his wife was. And in the indictment, authorities allege that Kaczmarek's wife told an associate that the former chief would serve as a drug mule and "flash his badge" if necessary. Kaczmarek's stepson was also indicted as part of the operation. The former chief has been the subject of drug-related rumors for years, which prompted him in 1996 to announce at a press conference before he became chief that he didn't use drugs. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

The New York Buzz, the World Team Tennis club that's brought stars like Serena Williams and Anna Kournikova in for matches, has broken up with Schenectady -- by letter -- after a 13 year relationship. It seems the Buzz now fancies Albany and its Washington Avenue Armory, which doesn't have weather issues. "I'm only the mayor, not God, I can't guarantee the weather," said Schenectady mayor Brian Stratton after getting dumped. [Daily Gazette]

Siena and UAlbany have renewed their agreement to play their annual basketball game for another three years. Under the new deal, UAlbany gets 500 more seats -- some of them pretty good -- at the TU Center. [TU]

Seven of the painted fiberglass horses that had been placed around Saratoga will be displayed outside New York City's Museum of Natural History this summer. [Daily Gazette]

Hillary Clinton narrowly edged Barack Obama in a local pre-school election. It seems Senator Clinton can thank a bloc of young lady voters for the win. "I wouldn't vote for the other two -- they're boys. I'm not a boy," said one three-year-old to the Troy Record. Barack Obama ran a close second on the strength of having a name that starts with "B," which polled very well with the electorate. [Troy Record]

New Scotland says no to big boxes, tough spring for allergy sufferers, spud gun cop quits, Jennings sleeps fast

The Town of New Scotland has passed a moratorium on construction of commercial projects larger than 30,000 square feet. A developer had planned to build a big box strip mall (rumored to include a Target) at the intersection of Rt 85 and 85A. [TU]

This is the worst spring in five years for people with pollen allergies. [TU]

The state Department of Transportation is now offering local traffic camera updates for mobile phones -- and urging people not to check them while actually driving. [Daily Gazette]

The Glenville cop who used a potato gun to shoot out a street light has has quit the force after pleading guilty to three spud-gun-related misdemeanors. [Daily Gazette]

Rensselaer County is looking to settle a dispute with Price Chopper over item pricing. The county says the supermarket has rung up $39,000 in fines for not following a law that stipulates that certain items should be invidvidually tagged with a price. [Troy Record]

The first block of renovated apartments in Albany's Park South neighborhood will soon be up for rent. The units, a block and a half from Washington Park, have been tagged as "affordable housing." [TU] [WNYT]

Just in case you had wondered, no, Jerry Jennings says he isn't planning a run for Congress. As he told the Rotarians, "I sleep faster than they [Congress] work there." [TU]

A man reportedly robbed a gas station in Schenectady last night and then took off... on a bike. The suspect is said to have been wearing a gray hooded sweat shirt, black T-shirt, jeans, Timberlands and -- it seems -- no helmet. [TU]

Schenectady surplus, cotton candy man quits, parking meters for Troy?, clown class graduates

The City of Schenectady has a budget surplus for the third consecutive year, ending up with more than $8 million left over from last year. As recently as 2004 a state auditor had warned the city it would run out of money mid-year. [Daily Gazette]

The glitch that kept people from placing Kentucky Derby bets at local Capital Region OTBs has been blamed on "operator error" at the company which totals up the number and amounts of bets for the system. OTB -- and the municipalities with which it shares revenues -- will be reimbursed for the lost revenue. [TU]

A community board has called for the Town of Malta to keep a close eye on the environmental regulation of the proposed AMD chip fab plant. The company has asked for a zoning change that would decrease the town's involvement with environmental monitoring for the project. [Daily Gazette]

The guy who's been accused of making cotton candy laced with ant poison (unintentionally, it seems), says he'll no longer make the sticky stuff. [TU]

Troy is considering parking meters for downtown. [Troy Record]

A one dollar surcharge has been approved for taxi rides from the airport -- if gas prices drop below $3.25, the surcharge goes away. [TU]

Saratoga Springs city council meetings are going paperless. The agenda and associated documents will be available to council members on laptops. The city's commissioner of accounts says city hall used 475 cubic feet of paper last year. [Saratogian]

A class of clowns graduated from HVCC yesterday.

Governor seeing all sorts of red (ink), bids for Troy City Hall not so hot, home foreclosures up, brewery hopped up

David Paterson says the state is facing $20 billion in budget shortfalls over the next three years. As part of a plan to address the gaps, he's recommending that many local governments be consolidated. [TU]

Only two proposals were submitted to buy Troy City Hall -- and Harry Tutunjian isn't happy about it. The mayor says he's upset that the developer with whom he'd arranged the city hall for Verizon building swap didn't even submit a bid. That developer did send along a letter saying the fighting between Tutunjian and the city council over the plan made it "unwise" to pursue the project. [TU] [Troy Record]

The was a big jump in local home foreclosures during the first quarter of 2008. [Daily Gazette]

Decks of cards with the faces and profiles of missing persons are being given out in jails all over the state. The hope is the cards will generate leads on the cases. [CapNews9]

The main branch of the Schenectady County library system will be closed for a year-and-a-half for renovations. [Daily Gazette]

The City of Saratoga Springs is looking to build on a park on the shore of Saratoga Lake. [Saratogian]

Olde Saratoga Brewing Co. is expanding its capacity. In addition to producing its own beers, it also brews for other labels -- and it seems people can't get enough He'brew. [TU]

Second Szostak autopsy results, delinquent DNA, no Big House restaurant, setting Schenectady straight

A second autopsy on the body of Joshua Szostak -- performed by famed medical examiner Michael Baden -- has concluded that the college student died from an accidental drowning. Szostak had last been seen on Pearl Street in Albany in December before his body turned up in the Hudson last week. [Daily Gazette]

Albany County DA David Soares announced that convicted criminals who haven't submitted a DNA sample to law enforcement officials have two weeks to, um, cough up a sample -- or law enforcement will come to collect one. [TU]

The developer behind the plan to open a Big House restaurant in downtown Schenectady says that the restaurant isn't going to happen, though the plan for a nightclub is still on. [Daily Gazette]

An Albany common councilman is pushing for the city to delay the start of a law that would require second-hand shop owners to file electronic reports for police about what they buy after every transaction (they currently sumbit written reports twice a week). Shop owners say the new system will take too much time. [TU]

What does Schenectady need? A good spanking, apparently. [Daily Gazette]

Stacy's Mom at Ambition Cafe

stacys mom at ambition cafe

Alas, you can't get Stacy's Mom with Mexican Wine. (What?)

Let it be known: we have had Stacy's Mom. And Stacy's Mom has got it goin' on.

(there's more)

Reinforcements for Schenectady police, local reps sticking with Hillary, better security for Hannaford, sort-of expensive air fare

Reinforcements from the state police are being called in to help Schenectady get a handle on gun violence. Shots have been fired there almost every day for a month. One official says "a handful of people in this city are out of control." [Daily Gazette]

Congressional reps -- and presidential super delegates -- Mike McNulty and Kirsten Gillibrand say they're sticking with Hillary Clinton. [Daily Gazette]

Hannaford says it's spent millions of dollars to upgrade the security of its credit card processing system after last month's breach. The supermarket is now encrypting credit numbers from the moment cards are swiped at registers. [Boston Globe]

The average fare out of the Albany International Airport was $330.83 last year, that's up almost three percent from the year before. Albany's average fare ranks as the 34th most-expensive in the nation. [Business Review]

The leaseholders of the long-promised pizza place on Broadway in Saratoga have been evicted. Apparently they had stopped paying both their rent and their contractor. [Daily Gazette]

A greyhound that had been missing for a month was found and returned to its family. "Prince" had lost more than half his body weight during his time away from home. [TU]


Housing market stable, pork off-limits, manhole cover mystery continues, dramas over water and hot dogs, warm weather beats Rats like a rented goalie

The median sale price for houses in the Capital Region rose in March compared to the same period last year. The number of sales was way down, though. [TU]

Even as the state goes looking through the couch cushions for extra cash, the money assigned to legislative member items -- you know, pork -- is still off limits. [TU]

National Grid still isn't sure what caused the manhole-cover-shooting underground explosion in Troy. [CapNews9]

A full-on political soap opera has emerged among Clifton Park Republicans over... the water board. [TU]

Speaking of melodrama... Saratoga Springs is watching one of it own. The center piece of this plot: hot dogs. [Saratogian]

The city of Schenectady says it can't afford a Big Brother, so one resident says he'll do it for free. [Daily Gazette]

Seniors riding scooters and their "accident-prone" behaviors have prompted Saratoga officials to get the word out about safer scootering. Among the tips: slow down, don't scooter while sleepy. [Daily Gazette]

In a face off with sunshine and warm weather, it seems the River Rats lose almost every time. [TU]

The bread at Perreca's

perrecas bread

The upper crust.

Some of the best Italian bread you'll ever eat can be found on Arthur Avenue
in The Bronx. But if you're not up for the road trip, make your way over to
Perreca's in Schenectady's Little Italy. It's not quite Arthur Avenue, but it's really good
stuff.

(there's more)

Burn bans, playing drive-by shooting, exploding manhole covers, Central Avenue construction, bobblhead mayors

Dry weather -- and dozens of brush fires -- have led to outdoor fire bans for Albany, Rensselaer and Saratoga counties. [TU]

What's the fun game to play in Schenectady's Hamilton Hill neighborhood these days? Drive-by shooting. [Daily Gazette]

Manhole covers exploded into the air again, this time in Albany. It doesn't look like they shot as high as the one in Troy, though. [TU]

Community activists are looking for the EPA to explain again how it is that more PCBs can be removed from the Hudson by dredging less sediment. [Daily Gazette]

Central Avenue is being rebuilt from New Karner Road all the way past Everett Road, possibly as far as Quail Street, in Albany. Improvements will include new sidewalks, crosswalks, "pedestrian refuges" and, presumably, fewer potholes. [TU]

A citizens' group is pushing Price Chopper to keep the Railroad Place store in Saratoga Springs open. There are some indications the company is planning to sell the site to a developer. (Check out the passionate comment left here at AOA about the importance of the Railroad Place Chopper.) [TU]

The mayors of Albany, Schnectady and Troy are being turned into bobbleheads. (Insert your own joke here: _______________________________.) [TU]

Candidates use own cash, Troy City Hall still standing, traffic circle skepticism, no more hot dogs in Congress Park

Many of the local Congressional candidates are spending their own money to run for office. Republican Sandy Treadwell, who's running for the chance to take on Kirsten Gillibrand, has put up almost a million bucks of his own money. [TU]

This just in: Troy's City Hall probably won't fall down. As for its parking garage, well, we'll see. [Troy Record]

The developer looking to build on Broadway near Quackenbush Square in Albany has changed plans. The proposal now includes a 12-story apartment building, seven-story hotel and a four-story retail/office building. [TU]

It sounds like people are still skeptical about the plan to build a roundabout west of downtown Saratoga (map). [Daily Gazette]

The hot dog vendor has been bumped from Saratoga's Congress Park. And that means no knishes, either. [Saratogian]

Parts of Schenectady's Central Park will be no-smoking this summer. [Fox23]

The Great Escape has added an attraction called Wiggles World. (Yes, those Wiggles.) [Saratogian]

Worries about Troy's infrastructure, where was the SPD?, Hucktown at Union, new slogan for UAlbany

Troy's city engineer says two recent underground fires are a wake-up call that it's time to start worrying about the city's infrastructure. Over the last week, downtown Troy has seen a gas leak, a manhole-rocketing underground explosion, and another underground fire that caused carbon monoxide to build up in the homes of 40 people. National Grid says it's investigating whether the events are connected. [TU] [Troy Record]

You can add parking to the infrastructure checklist: Troy City Hall's parking garage has been closed because of falling debris. [TU]

The Schenectady police are supposed to have officers patrolling the city's Hamilton Hill neighborhood around the clock. So city officials are asking why there weren't any while while a man was beaten for 20 minutes by a group there Monday morning. [Daily Gazette]

The Albany County legislature is trying to spur the state legislature to keep moving the Albany Convention Center project forward. [TU]

The Schenectady bed and breakfast that hosted the, um, parties for groups of consenting adults is up for sale. [Daily Gazette]

Mike Huckabee encouraged personal responsibility during an appearance at Union College Monday night. The former presidential candidate also described a place called "Hucktown," where hard-working, educated people self govern. [Daily Gazette] [tU]

A student research group from UAlbany has recommended that Saratoga Springs start charging for downtown parking. City officials say it's something they might consider. [Saratogian]

UAlbany unveiled -- with a drum roll -- its new marketing slogan that was $260,000 in the making: The World Within Reach. There was no mention of its grasp. [TU]

Menands body ID'ed, top judge sues state, UAlbany AD says game not over for stadium plan, Fasig-Tipton sold

DNA tests indicate that the dismembered body found in Menands is, in fact, that of a Schenectady woman who's been missing since November. [Daily Gazette]

New York's top judge, Judith Kaye, has filed suit against the state after the legislature chose not to raise the pay of judges. New York judges haven't had a pay raise in 10 years. [TU]

UAlbany's athletic director says the school's plan for a new football stadium is still on track even though the state legislature allocate money for it in the budget. The stadium is expected to cost between $40 and $50 million. [Business Review]

A group of buildings at the corner of State and Clinton in Schenectady are scheduled for demolition tomorrow. The buildings are coming down so that a mixed-use development can go up. [Business Review]

The Fasig-Tipton company, which conducts horse auctions every year in Saratoga, has been sold to a company from Dubai. [Daily Gazette]

DNA testing for Menands body, cigarette tax increase, Ashcroft gets big crowd, teaching Arabic in Schenectady, a plan to stop to the phone books

Investigators say it could take two weeks for DNA testing to provide more info about the dismembered body found in Menands on Tuesday. They do know from an autopsy that it belonged to an African-American woman. [TU]

A state investigation has concluded that NYRA broke the law when it hired a firm to perform integrity reviews for $125,000 per month -- without bidding out the job. It doesn't look like there will be any consequences for the race track operator, though. [Saratogian]

It looks like that cigarette tax increase will go through. At $2.75-per-pack, New York will have the highest cigarette tax in the nation. [AP/Daily Gazette]

John Ashcroft drew a big crowd for his lecture at Skidmore. He seemed to welcome critical questions from students, "I'm in a target-rich environment. Take advantage of it." He also, seemingly by mistake, referred to Barack Obama as "Osama." And, unfortunately, he didn't serenade the crowd. [TU] [Saratogian] [Daily Gazette]

The Schenectady school district will start offering Arabic classes next year. [TU]

Saratoga Springs' school district proposed budget has been chopped by $1 million. Among the cuts: an expanded foreign language program. [Daily Gazette]

An Albany common councilman is pushing a measure that could possibly slow the barrage of phone books. [TU] (AOA item about how to stop the phone book deliveries)

Budget process goes behind closed doors, investigating the investigations, school district budgets, extra security for Ashcroft

Surprise! The state budget process appears to have gotten stuck. Why? Well, people on the outside aren't exactly sure. One government watchdog said this year's budgetpalooza is the least transparent in 15 years. [TU]

It only sounds like an Onion headline: New York State is now investigating its investigations. [NYT] [NYT]

The Albany School District has proposed a budget that's more than 9.5 percent bigger than last year and includes an almost 2.5 percent property tax increase. Shenendohowa's proposed school district budget includes a tax hike of more than 3.5 percent. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

A study funded by National Grid and a number of economic development groups reports that the state will get a big return on its potential investment in the AMD chip fab plant planned for Malta. [Daily Gazette]

A Schenectady city councilwoman wants the city to use a "grouper" law to crack down on students who go in together to rent houses in the neighborhood around Union. The city's attorney says that won't work because, for example, the Union football team house meets the law's requirements for being considered a family. [Daily Gazette]

Extra security will be in place tonight for John Ashcroft's appearance at Skidmore as officials expect some kind of protest. [Saratogian]

Of the 13,000 state employees who work in or near the ESP, only 40 take part in the carpool program that provides discounted parking spots. More than 2,000 people are on the waiting list for a spot. [TU]

Spitzer "not truthful", the Penguin busted, return of the bottle bill, no styrofoam for Schenectady?, Albany's trees showing age

In a report released late on Friday, Albany DA David Soares reported that Eliot Spitzer basically lied about not being directly involved in the effort to stick to it to Joe Bruno over the state senator's use of state aircraft. Spitzer's "not truthful" statements won't lead to charges, though. [NYT]

Cops busted a local gambling ring that reportedly processed more than $50 million in bets during the last year and a half. The ring seems to have been run out of a club behind the Latham 76 diner. The arrested included guys with nicknames such as Waldo, Penguin and Bindy. [TU]

Talk of the "bigger, better bottle bill" is back after it was included in the budget proposals of both the governor and Assembly. Not on board with the plan to extend the 5 cent deposit to non-carbonated beverages and return unclaimed deposits to the state: Joe Bruno. Environmentalists say Bruno has been swayed by many, many nickels thrown his way by the bottle industry. [TU]

A Schenectady city councilwoman is talking about banning stryofoam cups in the city. If the ban comes about, Dunkin' Donuts would have to find new cups. [Daily Gazette]

It seems that Malta's request that town residents be first in line for jobs at the planned AMD chip plant was met with a "Ha, good one. No, really?" from the company. [Business Review]

According to a state DEC report, many of the city of Albany's maple trees will probably have to come down during the next few years because of old age. You can buy a new tree for in front of your house for about $60 -- if you get your request (pdf) in today.

The local women who connected via Craigslist for a kidney donation seem to be doing OK. The donated kidney is holding up "wonderfully" and the donor is still drinking Cosmos. [TU]

What your neighbors are watching tonight

red_dragon_dvd.jpgAccording to Netflix, here are the DVDs that people in Albany are currently renting "much more than other Netflix members."

1. Red Dragon
the Silence of the Lambs prequel

2. The Apartment
the classic Billy Wilder film

3. The Age of Innocence
parts of this were shot in Troy

4. Mad Hot Ballroom
a doc about ballroom dancing kids

5. Meet the Parents
DeNiro, Stiller, lie detector

6. Brooklyn Rules
indie mob drama starring Freddie Prinze Jr.

7. The Office: Season 1
that would be the American version

8. 21 Grams
Penn, Watts, del Toro, angst

9. Romance & Cigarettes
great cast, not so great reviews

10. The Sopranos: Season 4
Tony has issues, but what else is new


Lists for Saratoga Springs, Troy and Schenectady after the jump...

(there's more)

Day one for Paterson, Siena to face Vanderbilt in tournament, Schenectady goes to bed early, driver plows completely into store

David Paterson will be sworn in today as governor at 1 pm. [NYT]

The Siena men's basketball team got a #13 seed in the NCAA tournament. The Saints will face Vanderbilt in the first round on Friday in Tampa. [TU]

The Sanctuary for Independent Media has found a space to hold its Tuesday performance by The Yes Men. The City of Troy closed the gallery's regular space because of code violations after an exhibition of Wafaa Bilal's "Virtual Jihadi."

Downtown Schenectady's population of residents is growing, but many shops and restaurants are still closing at 6 pm. Business owners say there still are enough people living in the neighborhood to making staying open later worthwhile. [Daily Gazette]

A drunk driver drove her car into a Stewart's in Troy Saturday night, stopping at the store's back wall. Three customers suffered non-life threatening injuries. The driver? Not hurt. [Troy Record]

It seems residents of Saratoga Springs are cool to the idea of a roundabout just west of downtown. An engineer planning the change says people fear change. [Saratogian]

Marino's Pizza in Saratoga is up for sale. Two-and-a-half million dollars and the popular pizzeria could be yours. [Saratogian]

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]

More turns in the "Virtual Jihadi" drama, Schenectady cops to be tracked, call for more depleted uranium testing in Colonie, good year for maple syrup

The Sanctuary for Independent Media is discussing whether it should file suit against the City of Troy after the city closed the gallery to public events because of code violations. The org says the action was politically motivated, a response to the gallery exhibiting Wafaa Bilal's "Virtual Jihadi." [TU]

RPI has yanked the school-hosted site of the College Republicans after they called the art department a "terrorist safehaven" for its involvement with Wafaa Bilal. But the site that actually featured those comments is hosted off campus -- and it's still up. [TU]

Police cars in Schenectady will be getting GPS units so dispatchers can track their locations. The geographic info is supposed to help improve response times, but it would also help the department know when one of its cops has gone to Scotia to watch bowling. [Daily Gazette]

A group of activists is trying to get government money to do more testing of people who lived and worked near the old munitions plant on Central near the Albany/Colonie line. There's depleted uranium at the site and tests reported three months ago that some people who lived nearby were exposed to it. [TU]

RPI plans to give out $10 million more next year in financial aid. [TU]

Despite its currently decrepit state, architects and town residents are excited about what the plan to turn the Victory Mill (in Victory, outside Saratoga) into luxury condos. [Post-Star]

It's looking like a good year for maple syrup. [Daily Gazette]

Spitzer still the gov -- for now, Troy enforces code violations against "Virtual Jihadi" gallery, Albany Marines headed to Iraq, firemen remove man from tree, Schenectady cop takes time on the job to take in bowling

Will Eliot Spitzer resign today? Yes... or, at least, maybe. [TU] [NYT]

The City of Troy has shut down public gatherings at the gallery that was showing Wafaa Bilal's "Virtual Jihadi" for code violations. The exhibition drew protests Monday -- and they were led by the city's public works commissioner, who also happens to be in charge of code enforcement. The gallery had been previously cited for violations, but the director of the gallery says the city is censoring the work. And he says the original code violations came after the gallery showed a film that was critical of the mayor's policies. [TU] [Troy Record] [Daily Gazette]

The Marine reserve unit based in Albany will be going to Iraq later this year. [TU]

The Schenectady fire department was called last night to remove a man from a tree alongside I-890. [Daily Gazette]

Malta is looking at plans to concentrate its new development into a walkable downtown. [Daily Gazette]

A Schenectady cop was caught watching his son bowl in Scotia while he was supposed to be on patrol. "No, that's not acceptable," mayor Brian Stratton told the Gazette with a sigh. [Daily Gazette]

How walkable is your neighborhood?

There's this interesting site called Walk Score, which tries to assign walkability scores to neighborhoods. So, we decided to drop 10 Capital Region locations into the site. Here's how they ranked:

(Scale is 1 to 100, the larger number, the more walkable)


10. Guilderland: 25

9. Clifton Park, Clifton Park Center: 25

8. Ballston Spa: 63

7. Delmar, Four Corners: 69

6. Albany, uptown: 71

The top 5 after the jump...

(there's more)

Spitzer considering resignation, Siena headed to Big Dance, another endorsement for Brooks, a traffic circle for Saratoga?, spelling bee winner

After Monday's news that Eliot Spitzer did business with a prostitution operation, the governor is apparently now considering whether or not to resign. [NYT]

The Siena men's hoops team is headed to the NCAA Tournament. The Saints smoked Rider Monday night in the MAAC Tournament final 74-53. Siena's offense was as good as ever -- and it actually played some pretty good defense, too. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

Wafaa Bilal's "Virtual Jihadi" installation opened at the Sanctuary for Independent Media Monday night. About 100 people -- including protesters -- showed up. [TU]

Brian Stratton announced he's aiming to knock down the 50 worst vacant buildings in Schenectady. [Daily Gazette]

Jerry Jennings endorsed Tracey Brooks for the 21st District Congressional seat. [Daily Gazette]

Yassin Aref -- the Albany imam convicted of supporting terrorism after he was snagged in an FBI sting -- has published a memoir. Any profits from the book will go to support Aref's children. [TU] [Troy Record]

Saratoga Springs could be getting its first traffic circle. [Saratogian]

The Capital Region's first MRI for pets opened a few months ago in Latham. [TU]

A Bethlehem 8th grader won the Capital Region spelling bee. Dan LaChapelle took the title by spelling "gourami" after a competitor missed on "commissar."

RPI pulls art work, Albany on the hook for judgement against cop, no-show crossing guards could get raise, assemblyman gives entire salary away

RPI has suspended the exhibition of a video work in which the artist cast himself as a suicide bomber on a mission to assassinate President Bush. The artist tells the TU that the school feels like "a military camp," while the College Republicans are calling the art department "a terrorist safe haven." [TU]

A federal jury awarded $200,000 in punitive damages to the plaintiff in the civil suit against Albany cop William Bonnani. If the award stands, the City of Albany will be on the hook for the money because of its union contract with the APD. Bonnani -- despite a string of complaints about the use of excessive force -- is still on the job. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

Environmental groups are calling on the Spitzer administration to crack down on mercury emissions from a cement plant in Ravena. The plant is the single largest emitter of mercury in New York State, according to recently released data from the EPA. [Daily Gazette]

State police say there's evidence indicating that the crash that closed the Northway last week was an act of suicide. [AP/CBS6]

After reports that crossing guards in Schenectady weren't showing up in bad weather -- or were sitting in their cars as kids crossed the street, a councilwoman has proposed increasing the guards' salaries. "It's reprehensible we're only paying them $8.50 or whatever -- no wonder they're not showing up," she told the Gazette. [Daily Gazette]

The backers of a plan to open a food co-op in downtown Troy say it looks like the grocery store could open sometime this year, maybe as soon as the Spring. [TU]

For the third consecutive year, state assemblyman Bob Reilly (his district includes Albany and Saratoga counties) donated his entire after-tax assembly salary to charity. This year's total was $73,000. At a press conference introducing the recipients of the money, Reilly cracked that the people there were "the only group of people in New York who advocate salary increases for legislators." [Daily Gazette]

Bad week for Albany police, yet another Congressional candidate, sedentary crossing guards, local woman on WifeSwap

The Albany Police Department isn't having the best week. The department's catching criticism after a woman accused two officers of giving her a cavity search without probable cause two months ago. The woman says she was then discouraged from filing a complaint. And yesterday, an APD sergeant was arraigned on a charge that he pulled a gun on a clerk at the Traffic Safety Building -- the sergeant says he's innocent. [TU] [TU] [CapNews9]

Yet another candidate has jumped in the race for the 21st Congressional District. The latest contender is Democrat Gary Mittelman, former CEO of Plug Power. (Check out AOA's Congressional Candidate Scorecard.) He says he's running because "career politicians" aren't getting the job done in Washington. [TU] [Daily Gazette]

Schenectady police are annoyed that some crossing guards are sitting in their cars during cold or wet weather while children cross the street. The SPD has told the guards they'll be fired if they don't get their act together. Tuesday a guard told the Gazette, "I'm not going to stand out in the rain, would you?" [Daily Gazette]

A guy in Schenectady got nabbed at the post office while trying to pick up 25 pounds of marijuana that had been mailed to him from Arizona. Police were tipped off after a drug-sniffing dog caught the packages in Troy. [Daily Gazette]

The name of the Saratoga Hotel will change to the "The Saratoga Hilton" this month. [Saratogian]

A Loudonville woman (Cat Noel, one of the morning hosts on The Edge) will be on ABC's WifeSwap tonight. She says the experience has made her no longer afraid of people who "live in absolute normalcy all the time." [TU]

The Diving Bell and The Butterfly at Proctors

diving bell poster Everyone's talking about how amazing Julian Schnabel's film The Diving Bell and the Butterfly is. Even the trailer is mesmerizing. If you missed it in it's first run, you can catch it tonight at Proctor's Theater. There are screenings at 2:15, 4:45 and 7:30. And hey, be a sport and treat someone. The tickets are only 3 bucks.

Troy city hall up for sale, Soares to run again, big mercury polluter just outside Albany, Halfmoon wants attention, sportmanship gets a timeout after UAlbany game

Troy's city hall could be yours -- it's now officially up for sale. [Troy Record]

Albany County District Attorney David Soares is expected to announce today that he's running for re-election. So far, he's the only candidate in the field, though Paul Clyne -- the incumbent Soares beat four years ago -- is apparently considering a run. [TU] [Daily Politics]

State auditors wagged their fingers (so to speak) at the Town of Colonie for turning a $12.5 million surplus into a $10 million deficit in four years. Recently elected town supervisor Paula Mahan called the situation "sad." [Troy Record]

The Lafarge cement plant on 9W in Ravena was the biggest emitter of mercury in New York in 2006. Its 400 pound output was one-third of the state's total. [TU]

A 16-year-old Albany girl has been arrested for taking part in a group assault of two UAlbany students last month. [TU]

Schenectady wants Habitat for Humanity to build a "green" house with bamboo floors and solar panels -- and it wants to put up money to make it happen. But Habitat's saying "Thanks, but no." [Daily Gazette]

Halfmoon has had enough of being lumped in with Clifton Park. [Daily Gazette]

A firefighter candidate got bounced from the Saratoga probationary program because he has a fear of needles, which doesn't work out so well for paramedic training. He's now suing. [Saratogian]

There was a shoving match last night between the coaches after the UAlbany men's hoops team topped Binghamton 74-52 on the road. [Daily Gazette]

The Scoop

For a decade All Over Albany was a place for interested and interesting people in New York's Capital Region. It was kind of like having a smart, savvy friend who could help you find out what's up. AOA stopped publishing at the end of 2018.

Recently on All Over Albany

Thank you!

When we started AOA a decade ago we had no idea what was going to happen. And it turned out better than we could have... (more)

Let's stay in touch

This all feels like the last day of camp or something. And we're going to miss you all so much. But we'd like to stay... (more)

A few things I think about this place

Working on AOA over the past decade has been a life-changing experience for me and it's shaped the way I think about so many things.... (more)

Albany tightened its rules for shoveling snowy sidewalks last winter -- so how'd that work out?

If winter ever gets its act together and drops more snow on us, there will be sidewalks to shovel. And shortly after that, Albany will... (more)

Tea with Jack McEneny

Last week we were fortunate enough to spend a few minutes with Jack McEneny -- former state Assemblyman, unofficial Albany historian, and genuinely nice guy.... (more)

Recent Comments

My three year old son absolutely loving riding the train around Huck Finn's (Hoffman's) Playland this summer.

Thank you!

...has 27 comments, most recently from Ashley

Let's stay in touch

...has 4 comments, most recently from mg

A look inside 2 Judson Street

...has 3 comments, most recently from Diane (Agans) Boyle

Everything changes: Alicia Lea

...has 2 comments, most recently from Chaz Boyark

A few things I think about this place

...has 13 comments, most recently from Katherine