By Sam WallerMoran ISD begins its spring semester Monday, Jan. 9 with a staff-development day before resuming classes Tuesday, Jan. 10.In order to stay on its four-day week schedule, Moran will hold classes on Friday, Jan. 13. It is the only Friday class day scheduled for the spring semester.

By Donnie L. LucasThe Albany community received an early Christmas present last week in the form of a state championship football title for Class 2A Div. 2, thanks to the Albany Lions.

By Melinda L. LucasThree homes in Albany were recognized for their holiday displays by judges of the Albany Chamber of Commerce’s house decorating contest.The home of Shirley and Red Alexander was awarded first place with a prize of 100 Albany Bucks.

By Donnie A. LucasAnyone who doesn’t have plans for lunch on Christmas Day Sunday is invited to attend the annual Christmas Feast set for 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at the Matthews Memorial Presbyterian Church.This is the 14th year that the church has provided a meal for the community on Dec. 25.

By Melinda L. LucasNews readers and advertisers are asked to be aware that no newspaper will be published, either in print or online, the week after Christmas.“There will not be an edition on Thursday, Dec. 29,” said News editor Melinda Lucas.

By Donnie A. LucasThe graves of over 560 veterans were decorated by family members and other volunteers at the Albany Cemetery last Saturday during the annual  Wreaths Across America Day program.

By Donnie A. LucasWhile positive cases of COVID-19 are still being recorded at the two local health clinics, a larger number of flu cases have overshadowed those numbers in recent weeks, with the onset of the holiday season raising concerns.

By Melinda L. LucasDiscussions at Monday’s meeting of the Albany ISD board of trustees ranged from state championship football rings and stage floor renovation plans to downed telephone poles and semester finals.

By Melinda L. LucasThe Shackelford County Hospital District board of directors met for a relatively brief session on Monday, Dec. 19, primarily taking care of approving bills, but also going over a few other items of business.

By Melinda L. LucasThe start of a new year is a time for celebrating, and local emergency responders remind county residents to make sure that any fireworks used in the festivities are handled safely and legally.