A prolonged Arctic cold front brought dangerous winter weather to Shackelford County last week, leading to school closures, schedule changes and icy travel conditions across Albany and Moran.

Albany ISD announced an early release at noon on Friday, Jan. 23, ahead of the arrival of the winter storm. Classes and all school activities were canceled the following Monday as ice and freezing temperatures moved into the area.

The Albany Lions wrapped up the first half of district play with a 60–42 win over Hawley on Jan. 20, finishing the opening round a perfect 6–0.

Coach Ryder Peacock said the win was a physical one, as expected when the two teams meet, and credited his players for controlling the boards and staying composed against Hawley’s deliberate, ball-control approach.

The Albany Lady Lions pulled off a major upset last Tuesday, defeating Hawley 37-27 in a district matchup.

The Albany girls had their district open date Friday, Jan. 23, which allowed them to avoid a weather-related cancellation.

The Lady Lions’ game against Stamford was postponed from Tuesday night until Wednesday because of possible bad weather. Details will be reported next week.

“The King of Compassion”