By Jillian Lucas Due to the extensive amounts of rainfall over the last month, wheat producers in the area fell behind schedule in terms of harvesting. Local farmer Ace Reames stated that a typical harvest begins the last few weeks of May.

By Donnie A. Lucas Summer conditioning and limited sport-specific training is continuing next week for the boys, while the girls will take a week off due to the July 4th holiday.

By Jillian Lucas This year’s Fellowship of Christian Athletes summer camp is set for July 11 through July 13. Any incoming seventh through 12th grade student is welcome to participate in the FCA camp hosted by Solid Rock Camps in Eastland, Texas.

By Jillian Lucas Members of First Baptist Church will be hosting 4th of July festivities for all to enjoy. The event will be held at Clint and Ginger Bumguardner’s home on Sunday, July 4.  “Everyone is invited to enjoy the 4th of July celebrations,” said FBC secretary Becky Presley.

By Jillian Lucas Reminder for community members that local ministries Closet Angels and Neighbors in Need are currently closed. Closet Angels is set to re-open on July 19 with Neighbors in Need having an indefinite opening date.

By Sandy Morris Albany High School graduates Brady Karl and Riley Green recently earned American Welding Society D1.1 certifications.

By Jillian Lucas The Old Jail Art Center children’s summer workshop registration is happening now with a deadline date set for Friday, July 9. Workshops will be offered virtually this year beginning each week of August for students in first through sixth grade.

By Jillian Lucas Many local youth are taking part in various opportunities provided by 4-H this summer, including a variety of camps. Two camps are coming up in the next few weeks that several Albany 4-H members will be attending.

By Sandy Morris In additional to traditional fundraisers and membership drives, the Old Jail Art Center now has ways for people to support the museum through online shopping and social media.

By Jillian Lucas As Independence Day quickly approaches, community members are urged to use adequate safety precautions when celebrating and using fireworks. “Our main concern and focus is personal safety,” said Albany Volunteer Fire Department chief Travis Gardenhire.