Rodriguez scholarship fundraiser set Saturday

Albany native Justin Rodriguez is being remembered byfriendsandfamily with a scholarship to be established in his name.

A fundraising brisket cookout is scheduled for Saturday, April 20 to raise money for the scholarship.

Rodriguez, a 2004 Albany graduate, died April 20, 2023 at the age of 36.

The scholarship will go to an Albany graduate who intends to attend a technical school, which Rodriguez did before becoming a welder.

“We’re just hoping to raise as much as we can,” Laura Erwin, who is helping organizetheevent,said. “Last year, we had a very good turnout when Justin passed to raise money for the family to help with costs. We wanted to do it again this year in his memoryandthoughtitwas something he’d be all for.”

Also helping organize the event are Heidi and TyrellShoaf,Cameronand Cecily Holson, and James Rodriguez, Justin’s father.

“About 10 of us are involved,” Erwin said. “Most are from Justin’s high school class. I grew up with Justin. He was my brother’s age and was at our house all the time. He was like a brother, and I was always close to him.”

The event will start at 11:00 a.m. at 8199 N. Highway 283 just outside the city limits.

Erwin said donations will be accepted with all money going to the scholarship. Donations may be made by cash, check, or Venmo.

Musical entertainment will be provided by Jeff Martin and Caleb Sutton.

Erwin said the organizers hope to make the cookout an annual event.

“We’re all donating the briskets and food,” she said. “That way, 100 percent goes to the scholarship.”