By Sam WallerThe division races of the Albany NFL Flag Football League are heating up as the season enters its final two weeks.Week 5 games start at 9:00 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 29 at the Albany High School track infield.

By Sam WallerThe Albany Chest has a fundraising goal of $47,000 for 2022 to help meet the needs of two dozen local organizations.Applicants for funds range from youth sports leagues to senior citizens groups.Here are a look at some of the applicants.

By Melinda L. LucasA new playground for the youngest students at Nancy Smith Elementary School was unveiled last week, with parents of this year’s Head Start class invited to a special opening party.

The Albany News’ 17th annual holiday recipe section will be published in one month, with favorite recipes being solicited from all ages of current and former Albany and Moran chefs and bakers.

By Sam WallerAlbany High School senior Briley Tabor has been selected to serve as Albany Lions Club Sweetheart for 2022-23, while Samantha Hinkle was chosen as her counterpoint from Moran High School.

By Sam WallerAlbany’s FCCLA chapter will hold a fundraiser lunch Sunday, Nov. 6, at The Feed Store.The event is to help raise funds for chapter members to attend regional, state and national events next spring and summer.

By Donnie A. LucasThe 2022 Red Ribbon Week campaign is winding down, but organizers still have events planned for the final two days on Thursday and Friday.

By Sam WallerFive Shackelford County 4-H members earned spots at district competition with their entries in the county Food Show, held Sunday, Oct. 23 at Bethel Assembly.

By Sam WallerContinued hot, dry conditions are having a negative impact on the outlook for the upcoming quail season, which starts this weekend.According to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the bobwhite quail population has dropped for four straight years.

By Sam WallerThe Albany Lions officially clinched a playoff berth and took sole possession of first place in the District 6-2A Division II race last week with a 55-0 victory over the Roscoe Plowboys.The Lions (6-2 overall, 3-0 district), who moved up a spot to No.