By Sam WallerThe Albany Volunteer Fire Department will hold its Burgers & Birds cookout from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 3 at the fire station to celebrate the opening of dove season.For a $10 donation, donors will receive a fresh-cooked burger, choice of chips, a drink, and a cookie.

By Melinda L. LucasFour 2022 graduates have been named to the 2021-2022 All-State Journalism Staff, which is awarded by the Interscholastic League Press Conference.

By Donnie A. LucasNancy Smith Elementary School is looking for members of the community who would like to serve as mentors to local students.

By Melinda L. LucasAlbany ISD students and staff get a day off for the first holiday of the 2022-2023 school year on Monday, Sept. 5 in observance of Labor Day.Classes will resume as scheduled on Tuesday, Sept. 6 at the normal time of 7:55 a.m. for Nancy Smith Elementary and 8:00 a.m.

By Sam WallerAlbany churches and organizations have already begun fall youth groups, with children’s ministries about to start.Albany Church of Christ Youth in Action meets at 6:30 p.m. on the first and third Wednesdays of each month at The Feed Store.

By Sam WallerSeveral Bible study groups are forming for local residents, ranging from women’s groups to those open to the general public.One group has already started, while another is planning to start a new course after wrapping up its summer online program.

An Albany High School student has earned academic honors from the College Board National Recognition Programs.Albany High School senior Mayson Garcia has been awarded the National Hispanic Recognition Award.   “We’re thrilled that Mayson has earned this recognition.

By Sam WallerPreparations are in full swing for the 36th annual First Impressions Invitational Pig Sale, scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 10 and Sunday, Sept. 11 at the Shackelford County Show Barn.

By Donnie A. LucasThe number of new ­COVID-19 cases reported last week jumped to 18 positive tests, compared to five the previous week based information provided by Albany’s two health clinics.

By Sam WallerBen Richey Boys Ranch will celebrate its 75th anniversary this fall with the Albany campus taking part in the festivities.A reception is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 24 at the Abilene campus located at 501 Ben Richey Drive in Abilene.