By Donnie A, LucasAfter missing out on the biennial “Big Homecoming” in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, members of the Albany Ex-Students Association have opted to hold the event this year and recognize three honor classes instead of the usual two classes.

By Sam WallerThe easing of COVID-19 restrictions could have unintended consequences for the upcoming flu season.

By Sam WallerThe Walk to End Alzheimer’s is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 9 at Grover Nelson Park in Abilene.Beverly Rogers of Albany is once again heading up fundraising for the Alzheimer’s Association in Shackelford County.

By Sam WallerBethel Assembly will give Albany’s home­coming weekend a fall flair with its annual “The Patch” cele­bration.The event will get underway at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 2 at the Bank Park with a pumpkin market. Sales will continue until 2:00 p.m. or until the pumpkins sell out.

By Melinda L. LucasA couple of Albany High School FFA members participated in a tournament last weekend as part of the Texas High School Bass Association.The events took place at Possum Kingdom Lake on Saturday, Sept. 18, according to FFA sponsor Chris Beard.

By Donnie A. LucasPlans for 2021 Homecoming activities set for next Friday, Oct. 1 are being finalized, with some additions to the parade happening this week and the full list of homecoming royalty announced.The parade is set to roll through downtown at 5:00 p.m.

By Donnie A. LucasAlbany secondary students recently elected both class officers and student council officers for the 2021-2022 school year.

By Donnie A. LucasLocal organizations who plan to apply for funding from the Albany Chest need to finish and submit their applications by 5:00 p.m. Friday afternoon, Oct. 1.

By Melinda L. LucasA motorcyclist avoiding arrest because of reckless driving crashed inside the Albany city limits, ended up in the hospital with relatively minor injuries after attempting to escape from ambulance personnel, and later checked himself out of the hospital.

By Melinda L. LucasAlbany ISD trustees heard the 2020-2021 financial review during a meeting on Monday, Sept. 20, but no action was taken.