Good morning, Albany.

University Police responded to a campus robbery on Apr 18 and a fight in Mohawk Tower on Apr 19 that resulted in an arrest for obstruction of breathing—on Apr 21, two individuals were arrested for unlawfully entering Empire Commons E Cluster with intent to commit a crime using a weapon, and an order of protection violation reported on Apr 22 remains under investigation.

At the University at Albany Student Association meeting on April 23, Senators voted to keep Camp Dippikill closed for the upcoming academic year—citing high costs and low usage of the student fee—and will decide next steps at the following meeting.

Gov. Hochul announced the state budget plan on Monday evening after the April 1 deadline; the plan is set at $254 billion and will boost child tax credits, police technology, and mental health services.

The budget also allocates $400 million for Albany's downtown revitalize initiative—promising new jobs, safer streets, and improved schools.

The New York State Department of Health and PPL announced on Friday that CDPAP personal assistants can use paper timesheets until May 17 due to ongoing issues with the online timekeeping systems — this extends the original April 26 deadline.

Personal assistants needing paper timesheets after May 17 must request an exception.

On April 28th, the Albany Common Council passed a new law that relaxes residency requirements for city employees — except department heads who must still live in Albany— to allow hiring from neighboring areas over the next three years and ease staffing shortages in roles like police, firefighters, and dispatchers. Mayor Kathy Sheehan plans to sign the law soon and it will take effect within 30 days as the city works to address its staffing challenges.

Senator Patricia Fahy introduced the SAFE AIR Act to stop state agencies from giving contracts to airlines that transport ICE detainees without a court order—Assemblymember Michaelle Solages is also backing the bill.

The proposal would end tax breaks like the jet fuel sales tax exemption and help protect people’s legal rights.

Albany Tulip Festival

0 a.m. — Washington Park — Free entry — Experience the vibrant celebration of Albany's Dutch heritage with stunning tulips and exciting festivities.

Fuego Base Concert

8-11:59 p.m. — Fuze Box — Early bird tickets available — Celebrate a night of vibrant performances and drink specials at Albany's legendary venue.

Candlelight Concert: The Best of Hans Zimmer

6-7 p.m. — The Venue — Tickets available — Experience the magic of Hans Zimmer's music illuminated by candlelight.

Bit Brigade Concert

7:00-9:30 p.m. — Empire Center At Egg — $22 — Last-minute tickets available for a thrilling concert experience featuring Bit Brigade.

Evening in the Garden 2025

5:30-7 p.m. — New Scotland Elementary School — Free entry — Explore local gardening with tastings, tours, and entertainment from student musicians.

Digital Music Bingo

7-9 p.m. — Albany Airport Inn — $20 early bird tickets — Test your music knowledge with a fun twist at Digital Music Bingo featuring popular categories.

77th Annual Royal Tulip Ball

6:30 p.m. — Duo at the Dunes — Ticketed event — Celebrate the legacy of Albany's Tulip Court with an elegant evening of dining and dancing.

Fontaines D.C. Concert

7:00 – 9:30 PM — Empire Live — $65 — Experience the energy of Fontaines D.C. live in Albany, NY.

Albany Job Fair

2-6 p.m. — Holiday Inn Express & Suites Albany Airport Area — Free admission — Connect with 90+ companies hiring and find the job of your dreams.

Kane Brown's High Road Tour Featuring Ashley Cooke

7-11 p.m. — MVP Arena — Ticket prices vary — Experience a night of country hits with Kane Brown and special guests Mitchell Tenpenny and Ashley Cooke.