By Sam WallerAlbany churches are getting ready for Christmas with several planning special events and services leading up to the holiday.Some pastors and congregations have not yet finalized plans for Christmas events. Any changes or additions will be publicized in future issues if requested.

By Donnie A. LucasLocal residents are invited to come catch the Christmas spirit at the annual Albany Bands Christmas Concert set for Thursday, Dec. 9 in the high school auditorium.

By Donnie A. LucasThe Albany Academic Booster Club is once again inviting the community to “adopt” a member of the school staff through its Christmas Wish List program.

By Donnie A. LucasThe student and teacher of the six-weeks for the second grading period were announced recently.Seventh grader Mimi Ivy was selected by fellow students and teachers as the student of the six weeks, receiving a pair of Apple air pods.

By Donnie A. LucasAlbany Junior High and Nancy Smith Elementary students are competing in a number of UIL academic events this week, culminating on Tuesday, Dec. 7 when all contests must be completed.

By Sam WallerToys for Tots raised more than $600 Saturday providing barbecue sandwiches for attendees at Albany’s Lighted Christmas Parade.Marine SSgt. Doug Beaty, who heads the campaign in Shackelford and Stephens counties, said the project netted $614 in donations.

By Melinda L. LucasPick-up dates for the November distribution of the commodity food program are Thursday, Dec. 2 and Friday, Dec. 3.Certified families in Moran should pick up their monthly commodity food at the Moran City Hall between 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. on Dec. 2.

By Melinda L. LucasThe phone number for volunteers to call if they want to help to lay wreaths on local veterans’ graves later this month was incorrect in last week’s paper.Those who want to participate in the Dec.

By Melinda L. LucasPick-up dates for the November distribution of the commodity food program are Thursday, Dec. 2 and Friday, Dec. 3.Certified families in Moran should pick up their monthly commodity food at the Moran City Hall between 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. on Dec. 2.

By Sam WallerAlbany postmaster Laura Gilbreath is encouraging U.S. Postal Service customers to get a jump on mailing packages to ensure deliveries of Christmas presents before Christmas Day.Gilbreath said the Albany Post Office will maintain its regular hours through Dec. 23.