By Sandy Morris There are three weeks  left in the annual Albany Chest campaign and contributions are badly  needed in order to meet the 2020 fundraising goal of $41,000.

By Sandy Morris Both the local 4-H and FFA clubs are staying busy as they approach the end of the year.   Shackelford County Livestock Association Members of the Shackelford County Youth and Livestock Association held a planning meeting on Wednesday, Dec. 9.

Photo packages of local flag football teams and individuals have been printed and are now available for those who haven’t already claimed them. Parents who paid in advance or who have valid accounts can pick up their packages at The Albany News office. Others can be ordered when they are paid.

By Sandy Morris Local shoppers didn’t let the weather or COVID prevent them from shopping local during the recent “Albany Bucks” promotion sponsored by the Albany Chamber of Commerce, and since that time, funding has become available for even more Bucks.

By Sandy Morris Last Saturday evening, downtown Albany was shining bright with floats from the community Christmas parade. Parade organizer Mac­kenzie Viertel said he was very happy with the support.

By Melinda L. Lucas After a battle with cancer, longtime “country doctor” J.E. Mikeska died Nov. 30 at the age of 93. A resident of Albany since 1987, he practiced medicine for 58 years, retiring in 2015 when he was 87.

By Sandy Morris Despite the challenges of 2020, the Old Jail Art Center has found unique ways to continue to offer programming that serves a variety of patrons.

By Sandy Morris Organizers of several programs in Shackelford County have been hard at work collecting toys, gifts, and food for individuals and families in need during the holiday season and are ready to begin the distribution process.  Ministerial Alliance Food Baskets

Albany News publisher Donnie Lucas announced this week that there will not be an edition published on Dec. 31 during the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day. “We’ve decided to take that week off and be able to enjoy our family more during the holidays,” said Lucas.

By Sandy Morris The Albany ISD bands are ready to get everyone into the holiday spirit tonight with their yearly Christmas concert. The sixth grade, seventh grade, and high school bands will be performing this evening in the high school auditorium.