By Sam WallerAlbany FFA member Kenzie Neve ended 2021 and got the 2022 stock show season off to a strong start with her placings at two major national shows.Neve closed out 2021 by finishing second in Class 1 All Other Cross Steers at the Arizona National Livestock Show held Dec. 27-31 in Phoenix.

By Donnie A. LucasA presentation for students, parents, and the public on the dangers  of  using vaping products and synthetic drugs is scheduled for Monday, Feb. 7, according to AHS principal Glen Hill.The program will be presented to students during an 11:00 a.m.

By Donnie A. LucasThe annual Albany Cub Scouts Pinewood Derby was held Monday at the Scout Hut, with Jonathan Key taking the overall winner’s spot.Cubmaster Jacey Shack and Den Leader Dan Key organized the event, along with the assistance of committee chair Teri Lucas.

By Donnie A. LucasThe Albany student council is sponsoring a second blood donation drive on Wednesday, Feb. 9 at the high school. Students and community members are urged to participate by signing up for appointments at the high school office.The drive will be held from 10:00 a.m. through 3:00 p.m.

By Sam WallerRegistration is winding down for the upcoming youth baseball season with information available at Nancy Smith Elementary School.

By Sam WallerThe Moran FFA meat judging team finished 36th last week at the Fort Worth stock show in its first competition of the year.Moran superintendent Dr. John Denson said the six-person team placed solidly in the middle of the field of about 60 entries.

By Sam WallerAlbany’s Lady Lions hope to get back to making a long playoff run after last two softball seasons ended earlier than expected.The 2020 season was cut short and playoffs scrapped because of the pandemic. Last year saw the Lady Lions make an early exit with a bi-district loss to Anson.

By Sam WallerThe Big Country Fellowship of Christian Athletes’ Weekend of Champions girls camp drew 127 campers from eighth grade through high school for last weekend’s gathering at Eastland’s Solid Rock Encampment.

By Sam WallerSeven teams of Shackelford County 4-Hers brought home ribbons from the District 7 Food Challenge held Wednesday, Jan. 26, in San Angelo.“That contest is really difficult,” Shackelford County extension agent Kelsey Bell said. “The kids have to learn some serious nutrition information.

[EDITOR’S NOTE: The following article was written by Shackelford County resident Faith Fry, who attended a Texas Brigade camp last summer.]By Faith FryEducation is what sets apart the leaders from the followers.