A major accident occurred Friday, Feb. 7, at approximately 1:29 p.m., about eight miles east of Albany on Highway 180 when an SUV collided with a semi-truck carrying asphalt.

According to reports, the SUV was attempting to cross the highway to pull into a driveway when it was struck directly by the semi. The impact caused the semi to overturn, spilling its load of asphalt into the nearby bar ditch. Despite the severity of the crash, no fatalities were reported, and only minor injuries were sustained by those involved. Extrication was not required at the scene.

Fort Griffin State Historic Site will host its fifth annual Winter Encampment and Dutch Oven Cook­off on Friday and Saturday, Feb. 20-21, offering a glimpse into 19th-century life through immersive, hands-on experiences.

The event kicks off Friday at 8 a.m., running until 4:30 p.m., with the public invited to observe period-correct cooking demonstrations. Attendees will witness authentic techniques used during the mountain man era through the Indian Wars period. Approximately 25 encampments will be set up, featuring settlers, military personnel, and even livestock.

Drivers traveling across the US 180 bridge over Hubbard Creek Reservoir should prepare for nightly lane closures as the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) resumes maintenance work on the structure. Beginning Sunday, February 9, crews continued cleaning and sealing bridge joints, a project that started last year.

By David H. Waller

In what can only be described as a lesser-known publication—The Wall Street Journal (perhaps you’ve heard of it, though it’s no Albany News)—my brother, Andy Waller, recently found himself being interviewed for a cover story. And while we at The Albany News prefer real stories about multi-agency manhunts and championship football games, we’ll make an exception this time since, well, it’s my brother.