By Sam Waller The faculty and staff of the Moran Independent School District got a jumpstart on in-service training by participating in team-building activities at Tarleton State University in Stephenville. “We got off to an awesome start,” Moran superintendent Dr. John Denson said.

By Sidney Bartee Members of the Ragin’ Red Band are hosting a Community Night, scheduled for the last evening of summer band rehearsals, Monday, Aug. 16, with a special program beginning at 8:00 p.m. at Robert Nail Memorial Stadium.

By Sidney Bartee The show will go on for CareFest 2021 on Aug. 28. The event will feature nine well-known musicians and bands. CareFest will take place at Happy Wife Happy Life Wedding and Event Venue outside of Albany.

By Sidney Bartee The United Pentecostal Church’s annual Back to School Bash will be held on Saturday, Aug.21 at the church on Cook Field Road, beginning at 10:00 a.m. All students from kindergarten through 12th grade are invited to attend the celebration along with their friends and families.

By Sidney Bartee Several Albany churches traditionally hold special events during the transition from summer to the start of the school year, but due to COVID and other changes, many churches have not been able to hold their usual events.

By Sidney Bartee Albany ISD’s annual “Meet the Teacher” night and new student orientation are scheduled for Monday, Aug. 16.

By Donnie A. Lucas Albany teachers and staff started back to work this week in anticipation of students arriving on Aug. 18, and with the new year comes a new slogan that embodies the theme for the year.

By Donnie A. Lucas Albany ISD announced last week that students in all grade levels will be provided free meals for the 2021-2022 school year after being included in a COVID-19 recovery grant program offered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

By Sam Waller Members of the local FFA and 4-H organizations are gearing up for the fall exhibition season. Entry deadlines for the major fall shows are coming up with Shackelford County students planning to exhibit a number of animals.

By Sam Waller The deadline for Shackelford County residents to apply for FEMA Individual Assistance following February’s winter storm is coming up quickly on Monday, Aug. 23. Claims can be filed by calling 1-800-621-3362.