By Donnie A. LucasThe number of positive COVID-19 cases continued to trend downward slightly last week, according to a report issued by county judge Bob Skelton, with booster doses now available locally for eligible residents.

By Sam WallerMore than a dozen game booths as well as several other activities and plenty of food options will be among the attractions Saturday evening for the Albany Parent-Teacher Organization’s Fall Fest at Nancy Smith Elementary School.The event, which is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

By Melinda L. LucasDuring Monday’s meeting of the Shackelford County commissioners, county judge Robert Skelton formally announced that he will retire at the end of his current four-year term.

By Sam WallerMoran students spent the week building up spirit for homecoming weekend with a series of dress-up days.The week started with the patriotic ’Merica Monday, followed by the Hawaiian-themed Tiki Tuesday and Pajama Day on Wednesday.

By Sam WallerSpots are still available for the Albany Masonic Lodge Scholarship Golf Tournament, which is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 23 at Albany Golf Course.Entries will be accepted until the start of play.Entry fee for the four-person scramble is $300 per team.

By Sam WallerBucky Nail and Charles Barrett were reelected to three-year terms on the board of directors of the Albany Golf Club.The elections were held Oct. 9 as part of the club’s annual business meeting and club championship.

By Donnie A. LucasThe number of positive cases of the COVID-19 coronavirus dropped a little last week, with 15 positive cases reported by the local testing facilities.According to an update from Shackelford County Judge Robert Skelton, 38 tests were administered Oct.

By Sam WallerContests, prizes and themed days will be featured throughout next week as Albany ISD students participate in the 2021 Red Ribbon Campaign.The campaign educates students and the general public about drug and alcohol abuse. This year’s program will run Oct. 25-29.

By Donnie A. LucasAlbany graduate Emily Raymond made a stop by her father’s science class at Albany High School on Tuesday prior to embarking on a six-week trip to Great Britain to complete research for her doctoral dissertation.

By Sam WallerFirst United Methodist Church will “step out of camp” Sunday as it holds Family Day at the Stasney Ranch cookshack.Starting at 10:00 a.m., the day will be one of singing, testimonies, preaching, and fellowship, Rev. Tim Trimble said.