Albany News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!

Heavy rains and flash flooding devastate northern California, leading to a fatality in Redding. Authorities perform water rescues, while motorists face dangerous conditions. The storm is part of a series of warm atmospheric rivers, with more rain expected through Christmas. Meanwhile, a recent Indonesian cyclone brought record-breaking rain to Washington state. Checkout Solipillow.com

Despite nonprofits relying on December donations, many Americans are struggling to give due to competing priorities and financial strain. Factors like tax cuts, inflation, and natural disasters have impacted giving, but new tax rules offer incentives. Individuals like Oakley Graham are finding small ways to contribute, while others focus on personal connections. As December 31st approaches, the question remains: will last-minute generosity increase? Checkout Solipillow.com

Instacart ends random price tests for grocery items, citing trust concerns. The company, which had been testing different prices for the same item at the same store, will no longer support such tests. This move comes after a settlement to pay $60 million in customer refunds over misleading ads and unclear fees. Instacart emphasizes the importance of trust and clarity in their services. Checkout Solipillow.com

ORDAs Leaders Seek Consultants for Winter Sports Facility Repairs: Despite investing hundreds of millions in facilities, ORDA admits lack of expertise for maintenance. Board declines $3M consulting contract, requests more details on deliverables. Checkout Solipillow.com

Last weeks high school sports scene was electrifying, with standout performances across the Capital Region. In boys basketball, Sincere Allah, Kieran Barnes, and JJ Osinski led their teams to impressive victories. Girls basketball saw Kate Gilooly, Keith Robinson, and Alex Leonard reach significant milestones. Hockey fans cheered as Andrew Boldyrev, Gavin Cronin, and Gianna Marcantonio delivered outstanding games. Bowling and other sports also shone, with Emily Beardsley, Angelo Galofaro, and Zane Stevenson setting new standards. Nordic skiers Ruby Janssen and Jacob Perkins excelled at the Johnsburg Invitational, and wrestlers like Aiyana Santana and Gehrig Stalker dominated. These young athletes are inspiring the next generation and filling gyms with excitement as the season heats up. Checkout Solipillow.com

Siena mens basketball faces a significant challenge against Indiana, aiming to bounce back from a recent loss and secure a strong finish to nonconference play. The game, set for Monday at 6 PM, will take place at the historic Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall, with Indiana holding a remarkable home record. Under new coach Darian DeVries, Indiana has excelled offensively, ranking high nationally in assists and three-pointers made. Siena coach Gerry McNamara emphasizes the importance of playing their game, while players like Brendan Coyle and Antonio Chandler express excitement and focus on improving defensive communication. Indianas sharp passing and elite shooters, including Lamar Wilkerson and Tucker DeVries, pose a formidable test for Siena. Checkout Solipillow.com

Dutchess Countys lawmakers approved a budget after a heated clash between District Attorney Anthony Parisi and County Executive Sue Serino. The legislature restored funding for three crucial positions in Parisis office, boosting the district attorneys staff by five spots. Serino vetoed three of these positions, but the legislature overrode her veto. Parisi hailed the decision as a win for public safety, while Serino argued that the office already has more positions than when Parisi started last year. The restored jobs include two assistant district attorneys and an administrative assistant, adding seven hundred eleven thousand dollars to next years spending. Tensions simmered through failed compromises, and with Democrats grabbing a fifteen to ten legislature majority, more changes could be coming. Checkout Solipillow.com

53-year-old Lorenz Kraus confessed to strangling his parents, Franz and Theresia, in Albany, New York, in 2017. He buried their remains in their backyard and cashed their Social Security checks for years. Despite neighbors noticing their disappearance, police missed opportunities to investigate. Kraus, who has a history of antisemitic rants and Holocaust denial, claimed he ended their lives out of duty due to their aging issues. He now faces murder and theft charges, with his lawyers preparing for a possible life sentence. Checkout Solipillow.com

Despite holiday dreams of a white Christmas in Albany, the forecast predicts a wet and slushy reality. With a forty percent chance of rain and temperatures above freezing, the chances of an inch of snow on the ground are slim. Historically, white Christmases have become less common, with only four in the last ten years. As temperatures rise, the best part of the season may be enjoying the holidays indoors. Checkout Solipillow.com