By Sam WallerContests, prizes and themed days will be featured throughout next week as Albany ISD students participate in the 2021 Red Ribbon Campaign.The campaign educates students and the general public about drug and alcohol abuse. This year’s program will run Oct. 25-29.

By Donnie A. LucasAlbany graduate Emily Raymond made a stop by her father’s science class at Albany High School on Tuesday prior to embarking on a six-week trip to Great Britain to complete research for her doctoral dissertation.

By Sam WallerFirst United Methodist Church will “step out of camp” Sunday as it holds Family Day at the Stasney Ranch cookshack.Starting at 10:00 a.m., the day will be one of singing, testimonies, preaching, and fellowship, Rev. Tim Trimble said.

By Sam WallerNeighbors in Need will conduct a garage sale starting at 8:00 a.m. Saturday.Lori Reames said the sale is to raise funds to purchase needed items.“The proceeds will mainly go toward heaters at this time of the year for people who need them,” Reames said.

By Sam WallerTwenty-four students from Albany Junior/Senior High School, four from each grade level, have been selected to serve as student council and senior ambassadors for the Feed Store.

By Melinda L. LucasMembers of the Albany Volunteer Fire Department will be presenting fire safety information to local school children this Friday, Oct. 22 as part of it annual fire safety and prevention initiative.Several AVFD volunteers  plan to be at Nancy Smith Elementary School at 9:00 a.m.

By Donnie A. LucasThe Exploring Careers Class of eighth graders at Albany Jr./Sr. High recently completed the Texas Friendly Hospitality Program, earning certificates of achievement from Texas A&M and the AgriLife Extension Service.

By Donnie A. LucasThe Albany Ragin’ Red Band earned a Division I rating from judges at the Region 6 UIL Marching Contest held Monday at Wylie High School.The band was one of two 2A groups in the East Zone to advance to the Area Marching Contest set for Saturday, Oct. 30 in Amarillo.

By Sam WallerNearly 30 Albany FFA students participated in the Greenhand Camp on Oct. 13 at the Taylor County Expo Center in Abilene with local chapter president Leddie Leech helping lead part of the program.Leech assisted with a presentation entitled “What Can FFA Do For You.

By Sam WallerNine members of the Shackelford County 4-H Club qualified for district competition Saturday with their efforts at the county food show held at Friendship Baptist Church.The 4-Hers competed in appetizer, main dish, side dish and healthy dessert categories.