Good News: Theater anniversary, teacher recognized, big donation for local college

Playhouse Stage Company marks 35^th anniversary

It’s the 35th anniversary for the Playhouse Stage Company – and the group is marking it with a new show at Cohoes Music Hall. It’s called “Title of Show” – and is the story of two struggling writers trying to make it big in the theater world of New York City. The show runs January 26 through February 12.

Green Island teacher honored by state for work in STEM

Congratulations to Green Island science teacher Jenny Starr. She was recently named a “New York State Master Teacher.” She’s one of 221 educators selected to join this elite group of public school teachers, who share a common interest in STEM. Ms. Starr is one of only two science teachers in the Green Island Union Free School District. She’s been a teacher at Heatly School for 23 years.

Former student gives SUNY Empire State largest donation ever

SUNY Empire State just received its largest gift ever – from the estate of a former student. The late alumnus Robert Ehrmann donated $1.69 million to the school. Ehrmann graduated in 1978 with a degree in business, management and economics. He went on to pursue a career as a sales manager for industrial manufacturer Rockwell Automation.

Albany School District music teachers to hold concert

Albany School District music teachers are making their own music at a faculty concert set for next Tuesday, January 24 at Albany High School. The show is free, but donations are welcome to benefit Albany Friends of Music, a nonprofit group of parents and teachers who support music programs in school. The concert starts at 7 p.m., January 24.

Motivational speakers to spread anti-bullying message in Colonie

Fifth and sixth graders at Sand Creek Middle School in Colonie are getting a lesson on social and emotional health this Friday, January 20. Two motivational speakers will spread messages of anti-bullying. Tom Murphy and Rick Yarosh are from a group known as “Sweethearts & Heroes.” Rick is a retired Army sergeant, who was severely burned while serving in Iraq. The pair is known as “Capeless Heroes.”