By Sam WallerThe Albany Chest is continuing to accept donations toward its fundraising goal of $47,000 for the 2022 campaign.As of Tuesday, Nov. 15, the drive had raised $15,648, up more than $1,900 from the previous week.The Albany Chest helps meet the needs of two dozen local organizations.

By Donnie A. LucasFour new COVID-19 cases were reported last week, as the number of local cases rose slightly but continues to remain low based on information provided by Albany’s two health clinics.

The News will be printing Santa letters and holiday essays in the Christmas issue to be published on Thursday, Dec. 22.Students at Albany and Moran schools will be writing letters at school, which will be submitted to the News office by their teachers.

By Sam WallerMoran ISD will be on Thanksgiving break all next week.The break begins with the end of classes on Thursday, Nov. 17. Classes will resume Monday, Nov. 28.Moran held its annual Thanksgiving meal Wednesday, Nov. 16, with parents invited to have lunch with their students.

Members of the Moran meat judging team stay focused during their first contest of the year. They finished fourth in the team standings, with an individual in the top 10.

By Donnie A. LucasAll Shackelford County veterans and their guests are invited to join local students for a Veterans Day celebration on Friday, Nov. 11 at the Nancy Smith Elementary cafeteria.The program will start at 9:00 a.m.

By Melinda L. LucasIn Albany, mention of the “Bazaar” means the holidays are almost here, and this weekend, members of the Matthews Memorial Presbyterian Church will once again host the annual event.

By Melinda L. LucasA large turnout of Shackelford County voters, very close to the 2018 record for a midterm election and representing more than 53 percent of registered voters, showed overwhelming support for Republican candidates in state offices.

By Melinda L. LucasAn early deadline has been set for the Nov. 24 edition of The Albany News due to the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday and print schedule.All advertising, including classified ads, and news copy must be received no later than 10:00 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 21.

By Melinda L. LucasThe final blood drive of the year is scheduled to take place in Albany next Thursday, Nov. 17.Hendrick Regional Blood Center will park its bloodmobile at First Baptist Church at the usual time from 1:00 until 6:00 p.m.