By Donnie A. LucasContests, prizes and dress-up days will all be part of next week’s Red Ribbon Week at both Albany campuses.The nationwide theme of the 2022 campaign is “Celebrate Life. Live Drug Free,” which will be observed locally Oct. 24-28.

By Sam WallerElementary students from Albany took part in the first Kids on the Land program since the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, gathering at Lambshead Ranch last week for three days of activities and instruction.

By Sam WallerFriendship Baptist Church will hold its Trunk or Treat celebration from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 26, in the church parking lot.Participants are encouraged to decorate their vehicles for Halloween and distribute treat to trick or treaters.

By Sam WallerThe Feed Store will conduct its annual Running Man event starting at 9:00 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 29.

By Sam WallerFirst Christian Church of Albany has begun its Operation Christmas Child shoebox collection for 2022.Shoeboxes are available at the church and may be picked up during regular business hours or on Sunday morning.The last collection day is Monday, Nov. 14.

First Baptist Church of Albany youth will conduct a silent auction fundraiser following services on Sunday, Oct. 23 in the church’s Fellowship Hall.Items to be auctioned will include baked goods, frozen casseroles, and desserts.

By Melinda L. LucasSeveral dozen cast members of the Fort Griffin Fandangle are gearing up for a special Sampler to be performed during the Red Steagall Cowboy Gathering at the historic Fort Worth Stockyards on Saturday, Oct. 29.The show will be staged in the Stampede Room at 2:00 p.m.

By Donnie A. LucasThe Albany Jr./Sr. High Student Council will be out combing the streets seeking donations to the Albany Chest during the annual Trick-or-Treat For Change project on Sunday, Oct. 23.

By Sam WallerThe Shackelford County 4-H Food Show is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 23 at Bethel Assembly.Shackelford County extension agent Kelsey Bell said club members may prepare appetizers, main dish, side dish, or desserts.

By Donnie A. LucasA total of four new ­COVID-19 cases have been reported during the last two weeks, indicating a significant decline based on information provided by Albany’s two health clinics.