The number of overdose deaths in Albany County dropped at a similar rate that overdose deaths have decreased nationwide last year. However, unlike the national trend, which saw fewer deaths from fentanyl and other opiates, Albany County saw a higher density of fentanyl-involved deaths in 2023.

Sadako Sasaki, in 1955, folded a tiny origami crane using the red wrapper of a methotrexate medicine container, a treatment for her leukemia. That crane is now on display at the state museum.

The state is expanding its study on how non-lead ammunition for deer hunting can improve the survival of bald and golden eagles.

Hunters across New York are now eligible for a rebate up to $60 for the purchase of non-lead ammunition for use during the 2024-25 deer hunting seasons.

All three Guilderland projects came under the heading of recreation and outdoor infrastructure.

The Guilderland, Berne-Knox-Westerlo, Voorheesville, and Bethlehem school districts have released the income criteria for students to qualify this school year for free or re­duced-price lunches, breakfasts, and milk. All four dis­tricts have the same standard, based on family size and income.

Historically, from 1999 to 2023, according to the CDC, Albany County has had an incidence of 0.03 per 100,000 of population for West Nile virus human neuroinvasive disease.

The allocations were heavy on city programs. Two Guilderland organizations received funds, both under the recreation and outdoor infrastructure heading: the Altamont Fair and Guilderland Youth Lacrosse. The Mohawk Hudson Land Conservancy also got funding in that category.

ALBANY COUNTY — The county has launched a partnership with the Capital Region Workforce Development Board to provide support and job readiness training to people released from Albany’s jail as well as clients of the Sheriff’s Homeless Improvement Program, known as SHIP, which is housed at the jail.

Tom Ellis, Albany