By Donnie A. LucasAlbany band students ended the school year last Thursday with a concert showcasing each band both separately and combined.Several students were also recognized with awards during the program that included several selections from each band’s contest music.

By Sam WallerRain forced the Nancy Smith Elementary School Field Day indoors earlier this week, but it couldn’t delay the start of summer vacation. Albany schools wrapped up the 2021-22 year today with early release at 2:30 p.m.Before that, a junior high awards ceremony was scheduled for 1:00 p.m.

By Melinda L. LucasThe Albany Dance Theatre Company will present its 72nd Annual Recital on Saturday, June 4.The performance will begin at 7:00 p.m. and will be held at the Albany High School auditorium.Admission is free.

By Sam WallerDespite a late change of plans, First Baptist Church of Albany enjoyed a good attendance Sunday, May 22 for its annual Bible presentation to the Albany High School senior class.

Five Albany High School seniors were presented with Albany Masonic Lodge scholarships at a special meeting held at the Lodge on Thursday, May 19 for recipients and family members.

By Sam WallerAlbany Methodist Church will honor retiring pastor Tim Trimble with a reception from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Saturday, June 4 at The Feed Store.Trimble is retiring after more than 16 years in the ministry, the last nine in Albany.

By Donnie A. LucasWith just three weeks remaining before the opening date, rehearsals for the Fort Griffin Fandangle are going very well, according to artistic director Lorna Ayers.“We have had a great response by cast members this year,” Ayers said.

By Melinda L. LucasPick-up dates for the June distribution of the commodity food program  provided by Shackelford County are June 2-3.Moran families should pick up their commodity food at the Moran City Hall between 9:00 and 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 2.

By Sam WallerThe Albany Lions passed their toughest test of the postseason so far, overcoming an eight-run deficit in Game 2 to complete a sweep of their Class 2A regional quarterfinal baseball series against Coleman at McMurry’s Walt Driggers Field.

By Sam WallerThe entire Albany Lady Lions starting lineup earned spots on the All-District 8-2A softball team after making their deepest playoff run since 2018.Ana Balliew received Albany’s lone superlative honor as Pitcher of the Year.