Albany’s annual Wine and Dine for the Arts festival kicks off Thursday, with the mayor’s reception at Albany City Hall. The festival, which raises money for the arts, also recognizes and honors those who have worked tirelessly to make the Albany community better.

Matthew Peter was a force in the city of Albany. He was an Albany County legislator. Prior to that, he was Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan’s first chief of staff.

Peter was a fierce supporter of the arts in the city, spearheading the Capital Walls mural program, and sitting on the board of Park Playhouse. He suddenly passed away last month from a heart illness.

Peter’s hard work and commitment to Albany will be honored this weekend at the Albany Wine and Dine for the Arts Festival. NewsChannel 13 is a proud sponsor.

He’ll posthumously receive the Karen Sfara Ovation Award, named for one of the founders of the festival.

Another award recipient at the festival this weekend is longtime business owner and supporter of the arts, Tess Collins. She’s the owner of McGeary’s Bar and Restaurant.

She has always provided space in her businesses for musicians and comedians to get their start. She recently helped open a music school in Albany called Albany Rock Pit.

Learn more about why they both recipients were chosen by watching the video of Subrina Dhammi’s story.