Albany residents and Old Jail Art Center patrons are asked to “save the date” for a March 22 reception honoring Erin Whitmore, the OJAC’s education director for the last 15 years.Old Jail docents will be hosting the come-and-go event, set for 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.

The Albany Middle School TMSCA team wrapped up regional competition with strong results, securing nine testing opportunities at the upcoming state meet in San Antonio on March 29.Now in its second year, the program continues to expand, adding 7th and 8th grade competitors this season.

By David H. WallerPhase one of a planned fire guard project aimed at reducing wildfire risk near Albany is set to begin soon, with work taking place on land on the southwest edge of town near County Road 187 and Highway 180.

By Sam WallerMoran ISD has had a busy stretch before going on spring break.Students Sam Stanley, Brylee Stautzenberer and Kielar Carr were inducted into the National Honor Society.“The core values are Academics, Leadership, Service and Character,” Moran Principal Jo Hise said.

By David H. WallerLast week marked the official start of the 2025 golf season at Albany Golf Club, as the course hosted its first high school tournaments in nearly a decade, with both boys’ and girls’ teams competing last Monday and Wednesday, respectively.

By David H. WallerThe Albany Mainstreet Playhouse took center stage this past weekend with their production of Rumors, marking a successful three-day run that brought renewed excitement to Albany’s theater scene.

By Lynsi Perry MusselmanThe Lorax, Thing 1, 2 and 3, and Cat in the Hat, among other Dr. Seuss characters were seen on Nancy Smith Elementary School campus on Friday, February 28, to celebrate “Read Across America” week.

The Albany Masonic Lodge continues its tradition of giving back to the community, recently making donations to the Albany ISD Dyslexia Program and the local senior citizens center, as well as opening applications for its annual scholarship.

By Melinda L. LucasShoppers should have plenty to choose from this Saturday at the special yard sale and bake sale to be held at the Shackelford County Show Barn from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon.“We have so, so many things!” organizer Kristie Smith said earlier this week.

By Melinda L. LucasA large group of 27 Albany FCCLA members, the most ever, competed at the Regional Leadership Conference last week in Waco, with most of them advancing on to the state meet in Dallas April 11-13.“I’m very proud of them,” Jennifer Marshall, FCCLA sponsor, said.