By Sam WallerAlbany Lions fans will want to avoid loading up on too much Thanksgiving turkey in order to attend this week’s community pep rally.The event is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 24 (tonight) at the Bank Park.The Lions will play Wink at 5:00 p.m.

By Melinda L. LucasAlbany city council members approved a petition from the city’s Economic Development Corporation (EDC) to purchase just under 14 acres of property on the east side of the community during an hour-long monthly session on Monday, Nov. 14.

By Donnie A. LucasThe Aztec Theater is hosting a night of music performed by local residents entitled “Seasons of Love” on Saturday, Nov. 19, with all proceeds benefiting the venue.Tickets will only be available at the door for $15, payable by cash or check. Credit cards will not be accepted.

By Melinda L. LucasA Monday, Nov. 21 deadline has been set for the Nov. 24 edition of The Albany News due to the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday.All news articles and advertising, including classi­fied ads, must be received no later than 10:00 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 21.

Republic Services, the garbage collection contractor for Albany, will alter its schedule next week for the Thanksgiving holiday.Residential trash containers and industrial containers normally picked up on Thursday, Nov. 24 will change to Friday, Nov. 25.

By Donnie A. LucasThe Christmas shopping season started this week in Albany with participating merchants handing out entry tickets for drawings to be held on Saturday, Nov. 26.

By Melinda L. LucasRepresentatives of Resound Networks explained the Affordable Connectivity Program to Shackelford County commissioners and elected officials during a meeting on Monday, Nov. 14.

By Sam WallerShackelford County 4-H held its annual Friendsgiving celebration Sunday, Nov. 13 at The Feed Store in addition to conducting the monthly meeting and working on community service projects.

By Melinda L. LucasShackelford County has been included in a state of disaster because of ongoing drought conditions, according to information received recently by county judge Robert Skelton.

By Melinda L. LucasAn Albany blood drive is set for today, Nov. 17.Hendrick Regional Blood Center will park the bloodmobile at First Baptist Church at the usual time from 1:00 to 6:00 p.m.