By Sam WallerThe Albany Ministerial Alliance’s Christmas Basket food drive is moving forward with the food order being placed earlier this week.“Brookshire’s has always been very gracious in helping us get food ordered in the past,” Ministerial Alliance secretary Tisha Wilkins said.

By Melinda L. LucasIn addition to looking for people to purchase hamburgers this next Sunday, the Ministerial Alliance is also looking for volunteers from each church to help sack and serve the meals.

By Melinda L. LucasAn Albany blood drive is set for today, Dec. 2, coinciding with an announcement that there is a critical need for blood in the Big Country.

By Sam WallerShackelford County 4-H will be slowing down for a bit this month, but not coming to a complete stop.Local 4-Hers will take advantage of early-release days from school on Dec. 15-17 to conduct their next service projects.

By Sam WallerThere is less than a month left in the annual Albany Chest campaign, and many more contributions are needed in order to meet the 2021 fundraising goal of $46,000.

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.