Max Balliew was awarded the degree of Bachelor of Arts and Science in Biomedical Science Pre-Medical at the Tarleton State University commencement ceremony on May 12.Balliew is the son of Candy and Tim Balliew.

By Donnie A. LucasAlbany ISD teachers and support staff started the school year on Wednesday with staff meetings and training.Required professional development and meetings will continue through next Wednesday, with the first day of classes set for Thursday, Aug. 17.

By Donnie A. LucasMeet the Teacher will be held at both Nancy Smith Elementary and the junior/senior high campus on Tuesday, Aug. 15.Students entering K-6 will be able to find out their teachers for the coming school year from 5:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m.

By Donnie A. LucasThe Ragin’ Red Lion Band has switched from sectionals to full band rehearsals this week, with just a couple of days of summer band practices remaining before the school year starts next Thursday, Aug. 17.

By Melinda L. LucasWith the start of the school year, Albany churches and organizations are beginning to plan youth and children’s services for students, most of them with September start dates.

By Melinda L. LucasThere are several positions open for students who qualify for either the Head Start Program or the Pre-K Program at Nancy Smith Elelmentary.Parents who are interested in having a child participate in either program should contact the school to determine if they qualify.

By Sam WallerShackelford County 4-H wraps up its Summer STEAM program Thursday, Aug. 10 (today), and begins preparations for the new 4-H year, which starts in September.Shackelford County extension agent Kelsey Bell said the final STEAM session will be a pool party hosted by Tamara Trail.

By Sam WallerThe 19th annual Friends of Fort Griffin Gala will offer attendees a steak dinner and dancing under the stars to the music of Aaron McDonnell and the Neon Eagles.The event, which raises funds for Fort Griffin State Historic Site, is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 14 at Collins Creek Ranch.

By Sam WallerThe Albany Lady Lions wrapped up the first week of volleyball practice with a pair of scrimmages over the weekend.Albany opened its regular season Tuesday, Aug. 8 at Breckenridge, losing in three tough sets, 21-25, 14-25, 23-25.

By Sam WallerThe Albany Lions wrap up their second week of preseason football practice with their first look at outside competition.The Lions will scrimmage the Coleman Bluecats Friday, Aug. 11 at Coleman. The junior varsity portion will begin at 6:00 p.m. with the varsity to follow.