By David H. Waller
The Albany Mainstreet Playhouse (AMP) is gearing up for its next production, Neil Simon’s classic comedy Rumors, with performances scheduled for February 28, March 1, and March 2 at the Aztec Theater. Known for its sharp wit and fast-paced humor, Rumors explores the unraveling chaos that ensues when a dinner party goes hilariously off the rails.
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.
The annual membership meeting of the Albany Chamber of Commerce is scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 14, at the Icehouse Restaurant, starting at 12:00 noon. Chamber members will vote on a slate of directors whose terms have expired, followed by the election of officers for the next year.
The board will meet to elect officers for the coming year following the directors’ election. All Chamber members are welcome to attend the lunch. The cost of the meal is $15.
By Melinda L. Lucas
Albany city council members approved an amended budget for the fiscal year 2024-2025 and set a time for a budget workshop on March 4 to look at figures for the start of the upcoming year, which is April 1, 2025.
The council also approved a proposal to build a city website and moved next month’s regular meeting time to Monday, March 17 in order not to conflict with spring break plans.
Amended Budget
By Melinda L. Lucas
With two contested races as of Tuesday, residents only have two more days to toss their hats into the local political ring for several local elections to be decided May 3.
Of the six elections, the Albany school board and Albany city council have contested races, with the Moran school board, Moran city council, and Shackelford County Hospital Board both drawing a full slate of candidates but no contests as of Wednesday morning.
By Melinda L. Lucas
Albany’s Gabby Lopez and Moran’s Ellis Hise were recently notified that they had received the 2025 Good Citizen Awards from the Lee’s Legion Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.
The award, which emphasizes the qualities of good citizenship, also seeks high school seniors who show dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism in their homes, schools, and communities.
By David H. Waller
In a town celebrated for its rich history and western charm, the Stone Rabbit Hotel is poised to add another layer of intrigue and hospitality to Albany. Owned by Mike and Betsy Parsons, the hotel blends historical restoration with an eclectic vision, creating a space that promises an unforgettable guest experience.
A Historical Foundation
Local law enforcement and volunteer firefighters successfully recovered the shotgun dropped by Michael Z. Haley during last week’s manhunt, following multiple search attempts over several days. A previous report incorrectly stated that the firearm had already been found at the time of the initial search.
