By Donnie A. LucasSeveral local candidates for the March 1 primary elections officially completed the filing process on Tuesday, well ahead of the Dec. 13 filing deadline.

By Sam WallerThe Moran Independent School District has welcomed four new faculty members for the 2021-22 school year, including three who are in their first year as full-time teachers.New faculty members are Minnie Denson, Alyssa Gregg, Kassiah Hudson, and Bryce Hughes.

By Sam WallerMore than two dozen Moran elementary and junior high students competed in the district UIL academic meet on Tuesday and Wednesday at Cross Plains.The competition actually began on Nov. 18 with students submitting entries for chess puzzle and ready writing events.

By Sam WallerMoran 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.

By Donnie A. LucasDespite 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.

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

By Sam WallerAmong 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.

By Sam WallerThe 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.

By Melinda L. LucasIn 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.

By Melinda L. LucasAn 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.