31 seniors attend party

By Donnie A. Lucas

After graduating last Friday night, members of the Albany High School Class of 2022 celebrated at the annual Project Graduation event that started and ended at The Feed Store.

According to organizer Kenzie Fairchild, 31 of the 34 seniors took part in the all-night party that featured activities, food, and prizes all donated by local businesses and individuals.

“It all went well,” Fairchild said. “I think the kids really had fun and were able to get some nice gifts and prizes.”

A total of 28 of the 31 seniors present qualified to receive almost $400 each in gifts, based on their participation in fundraising projects during the year. In addition, two cash prizes of $50 each were drawn for every 30 minutes throughout the event.

“The tickets in the drawings were for the kids who worked the fundraisers,” she said. “The more work they did, the more times their names were placed in the bucket for drawings.”

When the group returned to the Feed Store at about 3:00 a.m. following the activities, there were more drawings, including for three surprise gifts of a microwave, television and computer printer.

Two $500 scholarships sponsored by the Albany Task Force were also drawn for, with Robert Bailey and Ansleigh Garcia both winning.

The evening started at the elementary gym that was set up like an obstacle course. The fun then moved to the football field for games such as knocker ball, corn hole, and splat ball. A beverage trailer was also set up, with Megan and David Henry serving flavored coffee, teas, and lemonades.

“The Henrys set up the trailer like a concession stand, and the kids could pick out anything they wanted,” Fairchild said. “We also provided Chick-fil-A, candy, chips, and other snacks.”

Fairchild thanked all the parents and community members who helped with the event. In particular, she said that former youth minister Spencer Newsom and current FBC youth pastor Eduardo San Lucas both stayed for the entire night, helping in a number of ways.

“We also extend a big thank you to Tisha Wilkins and the Feed Store, Albany ISD for the use of facilities and the school bus to transport the kids, and the City of Albany for allowing us to use the pool and the park,” she said.

Fairchild said that she added up all the donations to cover the cost of supplies and food, with enough left over to give the students attending to get an extra $30 each.

Each of the seniors also was given $150 in Albany Bucks to spend at participating businesses. The deadline to spend the bucks is July 31.

“I will be checking with the merchants every couple of weeks to write checks for any that have been redeemed,” Fairchild said.

She reminded those participating that businesses will not be issuing cash as change for purchases.