Albany ex-students meet Saturday

By Melinda L. Lucas

About two dozen Albany ex-students from as far back as seven decades attended the homecoming brunch and business meeting last Saturday morning at the Feed Store, representing classes from 1945 to 2001.

Current co-chair Buford Salters greeted those present, commenting that the biggest representation was from the honor class of 1972, with members in town to celebrate their 50th reunion.

He stated that over 700 email addresses of ex-students had been collected, and communication by email seemed to be more effective than by mail.

Secretary Patti Swank read the minutes from the 2021 meeting. The ex-students normally meet only on even-numbered years, but since the 2020 celebration was cancelled due to COVID, the group gathered last fall.

Swank also read a report from treasurer Tammy Wiloth Brown, who was not able to attend.

Because they were just elected a year ago, the current officers will stay in place for another two years.

Co-chair Beverley Wiloth Salters, who had passed out red “A” buttons as participants came in the building, explained that several downtown merchants were offering discounts if ex-students shopped in their stores.

Albany superintendent Jonathan Scott spoke to the group, explaining how the district has implemented new safety measures during the last few months, including the addition of a school safety officer.

The oldest graduate present was Art Viertel, who graduated in 1945. Amanda Metcalf Tabor, who graduated in 2001, was the youngest.

The group voted to hold the next meeting at the regular time in 2024.