By Melinda L. LucasPhoto packages of flag football players that were ordered last month are now available for pickup at The Albany News, open Monday through Thursday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.Packages that weren’t paid or couldn’t be charged to an existing account can still be purchased and ordered.

By Sam WallerBasketball season tips off for Albany high school and junior high teams over the next few days, although the varsity boys schedule is once again on hold pending the football team’s playoff run.Action began Tuesday, Nov. 8, with the Lady Lions scrimmaging Coleman at home.

By Sam WallerThe Albany Lady Lions saw a promising season come to an unexpectedly early end last week with a loss to Sonora in the first round of the Class 2A volleyball playoffs.Albany finished the season with a 24-8 record and a share of the District 6-2A championship.

By Sam WallerThe Albany Lions wrapped up the District 6-2A Division II championship Thursday, Nov. 3 by beating Abilene Texas Leadership Charter Academy 67-0 on Senior Night at Robert Nail Memorial Stadium.The Lions (8-2 overall, 5-0 district) open the playoffs at 7:00 p.m. Friday, Nov.

By Sam WallerAlbany’s Cub Scout Pack 255 Wolf Den is moving right along with its project to retire unserviceable American flags.Den leader Tiffany Waddell said about 20 flags have been collected so far.“We’ve actually received quite a few flags,” Waddell said.

By Sam WallerThe Albany Athletic Booster Club is in playoff mode with activities planned for each week the Albany Lions advance in the Class 2A Division II football playoffs.The Lions play the Eldorado Eagles at 7:00 p.m. Friday, Nov. 11, in a bi-district game at the Mustang Bowl in Sweetwater.

By Donnie A. LucasRehearsals are underway for the 2022 production of “The Nativity,” with performances set for Dec. 10 and 11 at the Aztec Theater.Practices are being conducted by scenes and started last week.

By Sam WallerSeveral holiday programs provided by the Albany Ministerial Alliance and ResourceCare to benefit local residents are gearing up for another season.Applications for and funding of programs providing for children through senior adults are being accepted.

By Donnie A. LucasThe Aztec Theater will again host a special evening of local singing talent accompanied by Sandy Abel as a fundraiser for the facility on Saturday, Nov. 19 at 7:30 p.m.Ticket will be sold at the door for $15, payable with cash or check only. Credit cards will not be accepted.

By Sam WallerThe Albany ISD Student Health Advisory Council (SHAC) raised $850 with its field goal contest at last week’s final home football game.