By Melinda L. LucasDiscussions at Monday’s meeting of the Albany ISD board of trustees ranged from state championship football rings and stage floor renovation plans to downed telephone poles and semester finals.

By Melinda L. LucasThe Shackelford County Hospital District board of directors met for a relatively brief session on Monday, Dec. 19, primarily taking care of approving bills, but also going over a few other items of business.

By Melinda L. LucasThe 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.

During September, on the late Robert Nail’s birth date, and on through the Albany High School homecoming week, support was sought during the annual fundraising drive for “Dollars for Bob’s Scholarships.

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.