By Sandy Morris Last week, the Albany Chamber of Commerce made the difficult decision to cancel the annual Lighted Christmas Parade, along with all of the associated festivities, due to concerns over the increase in area COVID-19 cases.

By Melinda L. Lucas With 10 positive COVID tests reported by the Shackelford County Health Clinic during the first two days of this week and more symtomatic patients on site at press time Wednesday morning, Albany and Moran seem to be mirroring the national surge of coronavirus cases.

By Sandy Morris The December distribution of the commodity food program originally scheduled for today, Dec. 3 and tomorrow, Dec. 4 has been cancelled.

By Sandy Morris In an effort to prevent any spread of COVID among Moran ISD faculty and students, the decision was made to cancel all in-person instruction for the week of Nov. 30 through Dec. 4.  According to Moran ISD superintendent Danny Freeman, this was a precautionary decision.

By Sandy Morris There are still plenty of opportunities to help neighbors in need during the Christmas season, including the rescheduled annual meal that benefits the Toys for Tots program.

By Melinda L. Lucas Usually mailed by the end of October, tax statements for Shackelford County property owners are just now showing up because of a data delay from Callahan County.

By Sandy Morris Albany Chest board members knew that 2020 would provide some fundraising challenges, but with less than one month left in the annual Albany Chest campaign and many more contributions needed in order to meet the 2020 goal of $41,000, they are worried.

By Sandy Morris  Albany ISD Junior High and Nancy Smith Elementary students are scheduled to compete in various UIL academic events on Tuesday, Dec. 8.  This year, all events will be conducted locally with no outside audiences allowed.

By Sandy Morris It wouldn’t be Christmas without the annual band concert to get everyone in the holiday spirit. The sixth grade, seventh grade and high school bands will be performing on Thursday, Dec. 10 in the high school auditorium. The sixth grade band will perform first at 6:30 p.m.

By Sandy Morris Activities for 4-H and FFA members increase as the year-end approaches.  4-H Shooting Sports The Shackelford County 4 –H Club will be hosting a shooting sports meeting next Tuesday, Dec. 8 at 5:45 p.m. at First Christian Church.