By Kathy Thomson

Last weekend, local churches used various means including drive-in, internet, email, and social distancing to celebrate Easter with parishioners while reducing the likelihood of spreading coronavirus, and Albany youth pastors are also using new ways to minister to their students.

Kathryn Hamilton (The Feed Store), Spencer Newsom (Matthews Memorial Presbyterian Church), and Campbell Terry (First Baptist Church) are working both independently and together to continue to reach youth with the love of Jesus and fellowship opportunities. 

By Kathy Thomson

The Albany community garden plot has been tilled and is ready for planting, according to organizer Ramby Anderson. 

“The soil looks good,” he said. “We’ve planted tomatoes, peppers, squash, and onions. We’re also putting in a few more flowers this year than we have in the past.”

Anderson planned to add okra this week.

Some of the garden area has already been allotted, but interested parties should contact Anderson to see if there is still space available.

Gracie Rogers carefully considers the next color for her Easter artwork at First Love Day Care. Despite huge changes in the world around them, children at local childcare facilities are getting ready for the upcoming holiday in many of the same ways they always do, even though Sunday itself may be spent a little differently.  

By Lynsi Musselman

Residents are getting creative with their facial protective gear amidst the COVID-19 break out. 

With the President’s order  in place for residents to wear mask in public settings and reports from the Food and Drug Administration that a shortage of surgical mask will continue, homemade substitutes are on the rise.

By Kathy Thomson

Shackelford County AgriLife agent Kloey Painter has encouraged local 4-H members to engage in fun, learning activities that they can do even while under quarantine, including fishing and baking.

Those who have followed her advice and then sent in pictures of the fruits of their labor include Ellis, James, and Johnnie Hise, Connor and Luke Smith, Hattie Jo Braly, and Charli Trail.

“There are not any rules or any prizes,” said Painter. “It’s all just for fun.”

By Lynsi Musselman

Last month, the Old Jail Art Center announced a creative writing contest for teens, with entries due April 13. 

Because of restrictions caused by the coronavirus, the contest deadline is being moved back to Saturday, June 27. 

 “The contest is being extended due to the fact  the museum has been closed to visitors, and students may not have access to the artwork that was to inspire their writing,” OJAC executive director Patrick Kelly said. 

By Kathy Thomson

Moran City Hall is now closed to the public in an effort to help “flatten the curve” of the coronavirus pandemic. 

However, the city’s essential services are still available.

“Folks can pay their water bill by depositing their payment in the drop-off box in the door, by signing up for direct deposit, or by mail,” said city worker Teresa King. “For emergency problems with water or sewer, folks can call 325-762-0643.”

King said residents can make an appointment if they need other assistance from the City of Moran. 

By Lynsi Musselman

Rapidly changing world events are having a significant impact on the local level.  

Several events are being cancelled that were postponed just a few weeks ago. 

The Albany Chamber of Commerce has decided to cancel all Chamber events until further notice. Even Chamber board meetings will be held via phone or text. 

By Kathy Thomson

Holy Week, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter church services are too important to be stopped by a virus, and local pastors have plans to reach not only their own members but anyone willing to listen, to tell them how Christ’s death and resurrection purchased salvation for everyone willing to accept the free gift.

By Kathy Thomson

Social distancing, team sports cancelled, and the reality of the “new norm” continuing for at least one more month has most parents trying to figure out how to keep their children from going stir crazy and looking for ways to make the best of a stressful situation.

One delightful activity for Albany children was Sunday’s “Bear Hunt.”

First Baptist member Sherry Viertel borrowed the idea and brought it to Albany.