By Kathy Thomson

The Feed Store served the first junior/senior Tuesday lunch of the new school year this Tuesday, Aug. 20, and the non-denominational youth ministry executive director Tisha Wilkins said that she was pleased with the turnout.

“We had 57 students, which was great!” Wilkins said. “We have the churches down with the same schedule as before, but we do have some open weeks that we would like to get filled.”

Volunteers typically provide and prepare food for up to 82 juniors and seniors.

By Donnie A. Lucas

The 2019 Lion football team got the first taste of “live” action during a scrimmage last Friday in Coleman.

Albany will host the Anson Tigers for a second and final scrimmage on Thursday (today) starting at 6:00 p.m. with the junior varsity. The varsity squad will follow at about 6:45 p.m.

There will not be an official gate price for the local scrimmage, but fans will be asked to help support the Texas High School Coaches Association’s “Our Day to Shine” benevolence fundraiser by donating at the gate.

By Donnie A. Lucas

The varsity girls volleyball team took two area opponents to four sets last week, coming up short in two close matches against Jim Ned and Abilene Christian High School.

Albany faced another tough opponent at home on Tuesday, posting a hard-fought 23-25, 24-26, 25-13, 25-21, 15-9  win over Eastland. Details from the match were not available at press time but will be published next week.

The varsity will be on the road Thursday to play in the Dublin Tournament, with bracket play starting Saturday.

By Kathy Thomson

Registration is still open for the Albany Golf Club’s annual Labor Day tournament, and according to president Randy Walker on Monday, both morning and afternoon tee times are available.

“We had a pretty good run last week, with several teams signing up, but we still have openings for both tee times,” said Walker. “However, we are out of rental golf carts.”

By Kathy Thomson

When smoke plumes rose into the Shackelford County sky last week, first responders quickly sprang into action to limit the amount of damage caused by the wildfires, and although their hard work and effort contained those fires to a few hundred acres, everyone is reminded to be extra diligent to prevent any fires from starting.

By Kathy Thomson

The Moran football team traveled to Baird for the first scrimmage of the year last Friday, Aug. 16, and new head coach John Hughes had his first chance to see the Bulldogs matched up against players from other schools.

The scrimmage was a four-way event between Moran, Baird, Water Valley, and Abilene Christian.

“Overall, the guys did well for the first scrimmage,” said Hughes. “There were some mistakes, which is expected, but I was extremely pleased with how we performed.”

By Kathy Thomson

The 2019-2020 school year starts at 8:00 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 26 for students in the Moran Independent School District, and staff members have been busily preparing for their arrival.

“Teachers have been hard at work getting their classrooms prepared,” said new principal Jo Hise. “We are super excited and ready for a new year!”

According to administrative assistant Jeannie TenCate, 105 students are already enrolled and an additional 10 to 15 transfer students are also expected.

By Kathy Thomson

The Moran School District will begin the new year with four new faculty members, John Hughes, Robert Londerholm, Elizabeth Martin, and Betty Galvan. In addition, veteran teacher Jo Hise will assume the role of principal.

“We are excited about the beginning of another school year with several new educators and students as well,” said MISD superintendent Danny Freeman.

John Hughes

John Hughes is the new athletic director and the head football coach.

By Kathy Thomson

Several events during the next couple of weeks can help Moran residents get organized for fall and the start of a new school year.

Meet the Bulldogs/Open House

The first community-wide event of the new school year takes place tonight, Aug. 22, at 5:00 p.m. at the local school campus.

The 2019-2020 football, volleyball, and cross country teams will be introduced to everyone who comes to Meet the Bulldogs.

Open House and Meet the Teacher will follow at 5:30 p.m.

By Kathy Thomson

Shackelford County youth between the ages of eight and 18 who are interested in participating in 4-H activities are encouraged to attend a 4-H club meeting next Tuesday, Aug. 27 at 6:30 p.m. at The Feed Store.

“Are you interested in food and nutrition, learning more about your show animals, sewing, STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics), community service, or learning how to shoot a rifle in competition?” Kristie Smith asked. “Then join us at the meeting.”