By Sam WallerThe start of fall sports is drawing near with Albany High School starting football and volleyball preseason practices Monday, Aug. 1.The summer conditioning program for boys wrapped up this week, while the girls have another week to go after taking a two-week break earlier in July.

By Brad McBeeA few months ago, I sat at the labyrinth across from the Old Jail Art Center with my Bible and devotional. It was a beautiful early morning, and I was enjoying the day and my prayer time.Suddenly I saw a flutter high up in the tree in front of me. I couldn’t quite make out what it was.

By Sam WallerThe Albany Masonic Lodge Scholarship Golf Tournament already has a full field, but is taking names for a waiting list.The four-person scramble is scheduled to tee off at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 13 at Albany Golf Course.

By Melinda L. LucasThe Moran Masonic Lodge #863 held its officer installation ceremony Saturday, July 16.The event was hosted by the Clyde Masonic Lodge during a joint ceremony with both Clyde and Cisco Masonic Lodges.

By Sam WallerMoran ISD enrollment packets will be available after Monday, Aug. 1, according to school officials.All students planning to attend Moran school in the 2022-23 school year will need to pick up a packet from the MISD office.The first day of school is Monday, Aug.

By Sam WallerCloset Angels is once again planning a Back-to-School Bash to help families prepare for the start of the upcoming school year.The event is scheduled from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday, Aug. 1.

By Sam WallerThe past two weeks have seen youth groups from First Baptist Church of Albany enjoy outdoor activities while also strengthening their relationship with Christ as they attended summer church camps.

By Sam WallerPreparations for Community Vacation Bible School are under way with volunteers setting up for the event, which will run Sunday, July 24 through Wednesday, July 27.A new feature for this year is the addition of the R.O.P.E.

By Donnie A. LucasFour members of the Albany FFA chapter and sponsor Chris Beard attended the Texas FFA State Convention in Ft. Worth last week, picking up a pair of awards won by the local chapter.Representing Albany at the convention were Leddie Leech, Gracie Price, Robyn Trail, and Kenzie Neve.

By Donnie A. LucasRegistration for all Albany ISD students will open online beginning Monday, Aug. 1, according to school officials.The district is once again using the Ascender Parent Portal for registration, with a link available on the district website.