By Melinda L. Lucas

The Shackelford County Hospital District Board elected its officers Monday during a regular meeting, with Jason Price returning as president, James Breeden as vice president and new member Karin Cox as secretary.

The meeting began with a prayer led by Pastor Brad McBee and included the swearing-in of new and re-elected board members Jo Ann Estridge, Karin Cox, and Ami Davis for two-year terms and Mike Folsom for a one-year unexpired term. 

By Melinda L. Lucas

Forty-five Albany High School seniors will receive their diplomas Friday night, May 23, during commencement exercises scheduled for 7:00 p.m. in the high school gymnasium. The event marks the conclusion of the students’ high school careers and the beginning of their next chapter.

This year’s class is led by valedictorian Avery Everitt and salutatorian Holden Sanchez. Other honor graduates include William LeMay, John Birkla, Jonathan Coody, Ethan Green, Gabby Lopez, Macie Breeden, Benjamin Barwon, Kenzie Neve, and Ann Davis.

By David H. Waller

Matt Bellah was unanimously elected president of the Albany ISD Board of Trustees during Monday night’s regular meeting, stepping into leadership as the district looks ahead to major facility decisions and a possible bond election.

Bellah succeeds Robert Montgomery, who stepped down after serving as board president for the past seven years. Montgomery has been a member of the board for 27 years and will continue to serve as a trustee.

By David H. Waller

Three familiar faces from Albany will once again climb into their vintage station wagon and set out on a one-of-a-kind adventure this June as part of the annual Buffalo Run. Team Grease Worms—made up of Robert Snyder, Craig Winters, and Matt Birkla—will be driving a 1965 Ford Country Sedan in the 2025 event, which challenges teams to navigate hundreds of miles in low-budget vehicles, all while raising money for Camp Able in Buffalo Gap.