Good morning, Albany.

Collin Billingsley, a 33-year-old man, was sentenced to 12 years in prison and five years of parole by Judge William Little for his role in a 2021 biker gang shootout that killed 29-year-old Alexander Bolton and injured six others at The Lounge at 117 North Lake * authorities said the investigation is still ongoing.

32-year-old Collin Billingsley of Albany was sentenced to 12 years in state prison and five years of post-release supervision by Judge William Little for his role in the fatal biker gang shootout outside The Lounge at 117 North Lake Ave.—the October 9, 2021, event left 29-year-old Alexander Bolton dead and six others injured.

The Altamont Fairgrounds is hosting Dinosaur Adventure from July 18 through 20, an indoor event that offers prehistoric fun for families.

Tickets start at $32.40 with VIP experiences costing up to $115.52 and children under two admitted free.

After criticisms from Albany’s mayor over violent incidents on July 4, county officials vowed to expand youth programs to prevent further violence.

During a Thursday meeting, they discussed better use of state funds and addressing issues like housing and joblessness to support at-risk teens.

Albany County leaders met Thursday evening to discuss youth violence and changes to the Raise the Age laws—legislators and Sheriff Craig Apple noted a rise in youth crime and want reforms to better protect kids and the community.

A report from the state comptroller shows that overtime spending for state workers jumped over 10% in 2024 while hours rose more than 7% from 2023.

The increase came amid staffing challenges in agencies like the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision—state agencies added 17,504 new hires in 2023 to help address shortages.

Assemblyman Phil Steck said his office used the Freedom of Information Law to review comptroller data showing less than $150 million of the $400 million opioid settlement fund has been spent on addiction and recovery services since 2021—leaving providers with funding delays.

He said more work is needed to help improve access to transportation and treatment services for those in need.

A patient who visited the emergency departments at Saratoga Hospital and Albany Medical Center earlier this week tested positive for measles—Albany Med Health System confirmed the case.

Kids Mindfulness & Yoga Summer Camp

9 AM – 12 PM — The Hot Yoga Spot — $250.00 — A fun and engaging camp merging yoga, mindfulness, and creativity for children aged 5-10.

Speed Dating in Albany for Singles Aged 24-39

8:30-10:30 p.m. — The Loft @205 — Ticket required — Meet up to 12 potential matches in a cozy and vibrant atmosphere.

Albany Career Fair

9:30 AM-12:30 PM — Marriott Albany — Free entry — Meet with top recruiters from local and Fortune 500 companies to explore career opportunities.

2025 CrossFit Games - Friday Only

8:59-10:29 a.m. — MVP Arena — Tickets available — Experience elite athletes showcasing unparalleled strength and endurance at the CrossFit Games.

Spitzies Harley-Davidson Ride for Ronald McDonald House Charities

10:30 AM – 5:00 PM — Spitzie's Harley-Davidson of Albany — Donations welcome — Support children's health and well-being with a charity motorcycle ride.

Albany County Summer Hockey School

9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. — Albany County Hockey Facility — $560 — Develop your hockey skills with focused training sessions daily.

Descendents Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — Empire Live — Tickets start at $36 — Experience an energetic performance from the punk rock legends Descendents in Albany.

Columbia County Sanctuary Movement Caribbean Festival

11 a.m. – 6 p.m. — Jennings Landing — Free entry — Experience vibrant performances from youth stilt teams and Moko Jumbies at this community celebration.

Charcuterie Board & Sip Event

6-8 p.m. — Washington Tavern — $65 per person — Build your own delicious charcuterie board while enjoying drinks and a fun night out with friends.