By Lynsi Musselman

Camp Jam, meaning Jesus and me, is ready to kick into full gear Thursday, July 16.

The camp, organized by First Baptist Church, will host youth going into eighth through 12th grades.

FBC youth minister Campbell Terry said the Disciple Now style camp will run until Sunday, July 19.

Terry added that there are spots still available for students who would like to attend, but all host families have been filled.

“We will take registration at the door the day camp starts,” he said.

By Lynsi Musselman

Community Vacation Bible School 2020 will begin Sunday, July 26 and continue through Wednesday, July 29 at First Baptist Church Albany.

“Concrete and Cranes” will begin Sunday at 5:00 p.m. with dinner in the fellowship hall. Activities start at 5:30 p.m.

Hours for Monday and Tuesday nights are 5:30 to 8:15 p.m.

“Family Night” will be held Wednesday at the city pool, starting with a program at 6:00 p.m.

By Lynsi Musselman

The reopening of the Shackelford County Library continues with the transition to regular hours of Monday through Thursday 12:00 to 5:30 p.m. and Friday 12:00 to 5:00 p.m.

The library was open on Mondays in June and is still limited to four patrons at a time. 

Gloves will be provided, and a face covering from home will be required to be worn while readers are inside the building.

By Lynsi Musselman

The Monday, July 20 deadline is approaching quickly for the Old Jail Art Center’s virtual summer camps.

Education director Erin Whitmore said camp slots are still available for families to register for the August camps and receive their free mailed camp kit.

“Daily camp videos will post each morning at 10:00 a.m. on our Facebook page, including step-by-step crafts and activities by OJAC educators,” Whitmore said.

By Lynsi Musselman

With clear summer nights in the forecast for the coming weekend, the crescent moon and bright Venus will appear luminous in the sky at Fort Griffin State Historical Site. 

The popular once-a-month “star party” at the fort has been cancelled for Saturday, July 18, due to COVID-19 restrictions, but astro-photographers are welcome to take advantage of this weekend’s view of the night sky. 

By Donnie A. Lucas

Local athletes entering grades 7-12 got a break from summer conditioning and sport specific training last week but were back working this week.

Both the boys and girls sessions will be on hold again next week due to the boys coaches attending coaching school, along with UIL setting some blackout dates next week.

“At this point, nothing is planned for next week,” athletic director Ryder Peacock said. “If that changes, I’ll send out a notice.

By Donnie A. Lucas

The Yard Goats, a local baseball 14U travel team, won the championship at the Nokona Iron Jacket VII Baseball Festival for the 14 & under age group.

The tournament was held in Nocona, Texas and sponsored by the famous Nokona baseball glove manufacturer located there.

Each member of the Yard Goats received a gold ring and a Nokona glove, while the team was awarded the championship plaque.

“The boys all played great through the whole tournament,” coach Justin Read said. “Everyone  did more than their fair share to win.”

By Melinda L. Lucas

Starting with this issue, The Albany News print version will not be on newsstands until early Thursday morning.

The paper is now being printed in Lubbock as a result of decisions made by the parent company of the Abilene Reporter-News.

By Lynsi Musselman

The Albany Athletic Booster Club met July 1 to elect new officers and begin making plans for the annual Hamburger Supper and other fall events.

Officers elected at the meeting are Shawnee Tischler – president, Stephen Kayga – vice president, and Tisha Wilkins – secretary. The position of treasurer will be announced later. 

Logan Neve will head up the “Tunnel Crew” again this year. Volunteers are always needed to help hold the inflatable “A,” as well as with the horn and flags. 

By Lynsi Musselman

Albany Cubs Cheer Camp 2020 will be held Monday, July 27 through Wednesday, July 29, 8:30 to 10:00 a.m.

Parents of girls three years old through sixth grade can register their daughters starting now through the first day of camp.

Camp will be located at the Albany Bank Park this year, due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Cheerleading sponsor Audrey Faith said the Bank Park seemed to be the next best place after the gym, where the camp traditionally is held.