Capital Region News

Albany Mayor Jerry Jennings’ announcement last night that he will not seek a sixth term in November came at a time when the city’s Democratic machine is already in motion as it gears up for a primary between announced candidates Kathy Sheehan, the city treasurer, and 2009 mayoral candidate Corey Ellis. Barbara Smith of the Albany Common Council  spoke with WAMC’s Alan Chartock as the city prepares for its first new administration in 20 years.

It's been a hot-button issue: the continuing saga of what to do about the Albany County Nursing Home.

Albany County Executive Dan McCoy has been on a mission to privatize the County Nursing Home, favoring a lease agreement with the Upstate Services Group, a company that provides administrative and operational support to affiliated skilled nursing facilities throughout New York. 

Advocates gathered in Albany's West Capitol Park  on Friday in solidarity with the "Worldwide Lyme Disease Protest" to raise awareness and highlight the need for more recognition from government, science and medicine that Lyme Disease is a global concern.

Lyme disease is a growing public health concern throughout the Northeastern United States - the co-ordinated worldwide rally is all about getting the word out - with 30 states and 30 countries in all participating.

A Columbia County city plans to become the first community in New York state to purchase its electricity as locally-produced wind power.

Researchers say that with a little effort, New York could get the power it needs from wind, water and sunlight by 2030. The city of Hudson is leading the pack for now with the announcement it will purchase electricity through retailer Viridian Energy. Hudson Mayor William Hallenbeck hails the move as a "win-win for the environment and for taxpayers."