By Sam Waller

Moran ISD has performed renovation work to its gymnasium as the facility nears a century of existence.

The gym was constructed in 1935-37 by the Works Project Administration, one of Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal programs.

“It’s a special place,” Moran superintendent Dr. John Denson said. “Some of the board members who graduated here talk about playing basketball in that gym 50 years ago. I’m told the floor is made out of pecan, and the building is solid rock.”

Work included replacing wood window sashes and metal coverings for lower windows.

By Donnie A. Lucas

Despite the shortened holiday work schedule last week, the number of ­COVID-19 tests administered continued to rise, according to a report issued by Shackelford County judge Bob Skelton.

A total of 45 tests were administered at the three testing locations in Albany, with a combined total of 16 positive results during Nov. 22-24. 

The Shackelford County Health Clinic also reported giving an additional 14 tests on Monday with 10 positive results.

By Sam Waller

The next step in the Albany Ministerial Alliance’s Believe Tree for Teens program begins Saturday with trees distributed to local churches.

Six participating congregations – Mathews Memorial Presbyterian, First United Methodist, Maranatha Fellowship, First Baptist, First Christian, and Friendsahip Christian – will have trees with ornaments containing details for applicants.

By Sam Waller

Among its other qualities, Shackelford County has become something of a magnet for law enforcement.

In addition to local agencies, Albany has attracted a number of state troopers who either live or work in the county.

There are currently nine active or former Department of Public Safety officers living or working in the county.

Former troopers are Shackelford County Judge Robert Skelton, Constable Xavier Perez, and Brian Waggoner of the Fort Griffin Special Utility District.

By Sam Waller

The Albany Ministerial Alliance’s Christmas Basket food drive is moving forward with the food order being placed earlier this week.

“Brookshire’s has always been very gracious in helping us get food ordered in the past,” Ministerial Alliance secretary Tisha Wilkins said.

The annual program strives to provide a box filled with ingredients needed for a traditional holiday meal to families in need of assistance.

The drive received 101 applicants this year with 41 in Albany, 35 in Moran and 25 through Vittles by Vehicles.

By Melinda L. Lucas

In addition to looking for people to purchase hamburgers this next Sunday, the Ministerial Alliance is also looking for volunteers from each church to help sack and serve the meals.

The event benefitting the Lee Hail family, will be held at Friendship Baptist Church at noon on Sunday, Dec. 5, with hamburgers, chips, cookie, and a drink available for donations.

Hail, who pastored the United Pentecostal Church, died recently after contracting COVID.

By Melinda L. Lucas

An Albany blood drive is set for today, Dec. 2, coinciding with an announcement that there is a critical need for blood in the Big Country.

According to Kelsey Caprio with the blood center, the holidays have led to a critical shortage of blood A and O blood types, but all types are needed.

By Sam Waller

Shackelford County 4-H will be slowing down for a bit this month, but not coming to a complete stop.

Local 4-Hers will take advantage of early-release days from school on Dec. 15-17 to conduct their next service projects.

By Sam Waller

There is less than a month left in the annual Albany Chest campaign, and many more contributions are needed in order to meet the 2021 fundraising goal of $46,000. 

This year, more than two dozen groups ranging from pre-school to senior citizens have submitted requests totaling more than $56,000.

However, the goal was set at a more reasonable $46,000, with collections of $21,566 as of Monday afternoon’s deadline time.

Local residents are reminded that everyone is asked to give what they can, even if they cannot contribute large amounts.

By Sam Waller

Albany churches are getting ready for Christmas with several planning special events and services leading up to the holiday.

Some pastors and congregations have not yet finalized plans for Christmas events. Any changes or additions will be publicized in future issues if requested.

First Baptist

First Baptist Church will hold a JAM Christmas party for the 100+ children in the Wednesday night program at 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 15.

Details were still pending at press time, but several special activities are being planned.