By Sam WallerDeadlines are creeping closer for those looking to contribute to or benefit from local holiday programs.The application deadline for Believe Tree for Teens and the Christmas Basket food drive, both sponsored by the Albany Ministerial Alliance, is Nov. 29.

By Donnie A. LucasAlbany junior high students began the UIL academic season this week, competing in writing events.The meet will be conducted virtually for the most part again this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with all events to be completed by Dec. 7.

By Donnie A. LucasThe number of positive COVID-19 test results increased last week, almost doubling over the prior week.A total of 38 tests were administered at the three testing locations in Albany, with a combined total of 15 positive results for the week of  Nov. 8 through Nov. 12.

By Melinda L.

By Melinda L. LucasAfter meeting in closed session for more than a hour to review five applications, members of the Shackelford County Hospital District’s board of directors decided to schedule interviews to fill the post of SCHD administrator.

Republic Services, the garbage collection contractor for Albany, will alter its schedule next week for the Thanksgiving holiday.Residential trash containers and industrial containers normally picked up on Thursday will change to Saturday.Tuesday collection will run as normal for the week.

A Monday, Nov. 22 deadline has been set for the Nov. 25 edition of The Albany News due to the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday.All news articles and advertising, including classified ads, must be received no later than noon on Monday, Nov. 22.

By Donnie A. LucasThree incumbent county officials filed the paperwork needed to designate a campaign treasurer this week and each are seeking signatures needed to file for the Republican primary election in March.

By Sam WallerThe Aztec Theater will take a break from its renovation project Saturday night so that local performers can host Troubadour – Songs of the Singer-Songwriter.The program will start at 7:00 p.m. Pam Davis will narrate.Admission is $15 per person.

By Melinda L. LucasThere was no public comment at a special hearing last Friday morning, and Shackelford County commissioners moved forward with the process of redistricting the precincts in order to “equalize” populations within the four areas.Since there was more than a 10% deviation between Pcts.