By Donnie A. LucasStudents who are needing extra help can attend one of three after-school programs  offered at Nancy Smith Elementary and the Albany Jr./Sr. High campus.

By Donnie A. LucasOpen registration for GED classes continues weekly on Monday and Tuesday nights at the Shackelford County Library, according to local instructor Kenzie Fairchild.Classes started Monday with three students enrolling; however, students are free to begin the program at any point.

By Sam WallerDakota Irwin began his duties as youth minister at Friendship Baptist Church with the church’s Back to School Bash and now moves into his role with the youth group.Junior high and high school youth meet at 6:15 p.m. on Wednesday nights.

By Sam WallerBethel Assembly’s The Patch fundraiser returns Saturday, Sept. 30 at the Bank Park in downtown Albany.The event raises funds to be used for community outreach programs.Pumpkin sales begin at 9:00 a.m. and will continue until all are sold.

By Sam WallerMaranatha Fellowship will have Brian Holamon of Abilene speak at its Sunday, Sept. 17, service.The service begins at 10:00 a.m. with Holamon speaking about 10:45.Holamon is the owner of ReVive Life Spa in Abilene. He is a medical massage therapist and body trainer.

By Sam WallerBig Country Piggin and the Timothy Project raised more than $2,000 to assist with medical expenses for Albany resident Willie Mosley, and the amount is expected to increase once raffle totals are obtained.In addition, donations are still being accepted for Mosley at Clear Fork Bank.

By Donnie A. LucasIt was a banner year at the 37th annual First Impressions pig sale benefiting the Shackelford County Youth and Livestock Association on Sunday, including the largest number of pigs sold, most buyers, and the highest gross sales.

By Sam WallerA total of 18 participants took part in the Albany Chamber of Commerce’s community garage sale Saturday, Sept. 9.Chamber manager Brandi Lehew said the event went well.“I reprinted maps a couple of times Saturday morning,” Lehew said. “It was very busy.

By Melinda L. LucasTwo artists will be featured in the Old Jail Art Center’s fall exhibitions, scheduled to open at the local museum with a members’ reception and dinner on Saturday, Sept. 23.The evening is free to all OJAC members, who are asked to RSVP by next Tuesday, Sept. 19.

By Melinda L. LucasApplication forms for Albany Chest funds are now available at both local banks and The Albany News, with a deadline of Friday, Sept. 29.Forms can also be requested by email at news@thealbanynews.net.