$ The Albany Chest is almost 65 percent of the way to its fundraising goal of $45,000 as the 2023 campaign enters its final two weeks. The campaign had raised $27,725 as of Tuesday, Dec.

Albany students at both AlbanyISDcampuseswere placed on a lockdown for about 15 minutes last Wednesday, Dec. 13 as a result of a possible threat neartheelementaryschool.

The start of a new year is a time for celebrating, and local emergency responders remind county residents to make sure that any fireworks used in the festivities are handled safely and legally. More favorable conditions sparked the county commissioners to discontinue the county burn ban in November, and fortunately, therehavebeenfew fires over the last several months.

NP contract to be signed before year-end Even with two separate closed sessions, the Shackelford County Hospital District’s board of directors adjourned its December meeting in less than two hours on Tuesday night, taking care of several important items on the agendas for both the district and the clinic. Eric Reed from American NationalLeasingCompany presented the board with options regarding financing of the new ambulance.

The deadline for nominations for the Albany Chamber of Commerce house decorating contest has been extended until Friday, Dec. 15 at 5:00 p.m.

Albany News readers and advertisers are reminded that there will be no paper published on Dec. 28 during the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day.

For the second year, the Aztec Theater is playing host to a free showing of a Christmas-themed film during the holiday season. “Elf,” starring Will Ferrell, will be shown on Sunday, Dec.

For the fourth consecutive year, Albany will honor its veterans at the Albany Cemetery withaChristmaswreath-laying ceremony on Saturday, Dec. 16.

The filing period for the March 5 primary elections ended on Monday, with incumbent Pct. 1 commissioner Steve Riley drawing an opponent on the final day.

Two Albany seniors earned seats on the All-Region High School Band during tryouts held Saturday atMidlandGreenwood High School. Ashley Sanchez placed eighth among the clarinets, earning a spot in the honor band and also qualifying her to try out for All-Area Band in January.