By Sam WallerMoran FFA students received four awards banners Monday at the Area IV FFA banquet at Taylor County Expo Center in Abilene.

By Donnie A. LucasChristmas could come early for all Albany students if the Lion football team advances to the state championship game next week in Arlington.Currently, students are scheduled to be in class next week, with early release days planned for Wednesday, Dec. 15 through Friday, Dec.

By Donnie A. LucasVeterans in the Albany Cemetery will once again be honored during the National Wreaths Across America Day scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 18, with local volunteers meeting for a brief ceremony prior to placing the 525 wreaths out across the cemetery.The ceremony will start at 11:00 a.

By Sam WallerThere are three weeks  left in the annual Albany Chest campaign and contributions are badly  needed in order to meet the 2021 fundraising goal of $46,000.

By Melinda L. LucasThe year is underway for local Cub Scouts, who have had several meetings since organizing in September.Cubmaster Jacey Shack said that about nine members are finishing up the annual popcorn sales and other projects planned by Den Leaders of the Lion, Wolf, Bear, and Tiger dens.

By Sam WallerThe 13th annual Christmas Feast will be held Saturday, Dec. 25, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Matthews Memorial Presbyterian Church’s Fellowship Hall.Tamara Trail, one of the event organizers, said there is no charge for the meal, and anyone is welcome to receive food.

By Sam WallerCloset Angels and The Local Exchange) formerly Neighbors in Need) will be closed over the school Christmas break so volunteers can have time with their families.The last day Closet Angels will be open is Wednesday, Dec. 15. The ministry will reopen Jan. 5.

By Sam WallerThe Christmas season is being celebrated with a wide range of special activities and services at Albany churches.Some pastors and congregations have not yet finalized plans for Christmas events. Any changes or additions will be publicized in future issues if requested.

All 41 ornaments that were part of the Believe Tree for Teens program were claimed from local churches last weekend. Now contributors have until Monday to fill the wish list they selected.

By Donnie A. LucasAlbany eighth grader Cheyenne Hebel earned a seat on the All-Region Junior High Band last Saturday.Hebel competed at San Angelo’s Lake­view High School, taking 11th chair among the 80 trumpet players who tried out.