By Sam WallerWith the Shackelford Youth and Livestock Show just four weeks away, exhibitors are busy getting their animals ready, while members of the Shackelford Youth and Livestock Association are working to make the event a success.The 2023 show is scheduled for Thursday-Saturday, Jan. 19-21.

By Donnie A. LucasAlbany students and staff started the Christmas break on Wednesday, gaining a few extra days this year due to some changes in the schedule.The break started with an early-release on Wednesday, Dec. 22 and will continue until Monday, Jan. 9 for staff members.

By Donnie A. LucasAlbany junior Ashley Sanchez earned a seat in the All-Region band for the second time during tryouts held at Mid­land Greenwood High School on Dec. 10.Sanchez placed 23rd out of 68 clarinet entries, earning 14th chair in the Symphonic All-Region Band, the second of three bands.

By Melinda L. LucasRepublic Services, trash pickup contractor for the City of Albany, will run its regular schedule for the week of Christmas.Residential trash containers and business and industrial containers normally picked up on Thursday, Dec. 22 will run as scheduled.

By Sam WallerChristmas Day falling on a Sunday for the first time since 2016 offers local churches a unique opportunity to celebrate the birth of Christ on a regular day of worship.Several Albany congregations will conduct special services as part of their Christmas celebrations this weekend.

By Donnie A. LucasAbout 100 county families and individuals received food deliveries on Sunday and Monday just in time for the holiday season as part of the annual Christmas Basket program sponsored by the Albany Ministerial Alliance.

By Melinda L. LucasBecause Christmas and New Year’s Day both fall on Sunday this year, government offices will close before and after the weekend for holiday observances.Shackelford County offices will be closed Friday, Dec. 23 and Monday, Dec. 26 for Christmas.

By Sam WallerThe Albany Chest enters the final week of 2022 still more than $18,000 short of its goal of $47,000.As of Tuesday, Dec. 20, the fund stood at $28,608, an increase of only $1,185 from last week.

By Melinda L. LucasThe first 2023 distribution of government commodities is set for Thursday, Jan. 5 at the Moran City Hall, followed by another session on Friday, Jan. 6 for Albany residents behind the justice of the peace office at the Courthouse.

By Sam WallerThe fifth time proved to be the charm for Denney Faith and the Albany Lions.Behind an overpowering rushing attack and a stingy defense, the Lions claimed the school’s third state championship, the first under Faith, Wednesday, Dec.