By Melinda L. Lucas With a “kickoff meeting” held last Thursday, community leaders are currently working to expand access of high speed internet in Shackelford and Throckmorton counties, with a special survey open through the end of May.

By Sandy Morris The annual Fandangle Sampler invitations have gone out in the mail, and Fandangle artistic director Lorna Ayers will begin rehearsals next week. The annual Fandangle Sampler is being held at Reynolds Bend on the Lambshead Ranch on Saturday, April 17.

By Melinda L. Lucas All seven of Shackelford County Hospital District’s directors were present for a long meeting on Monday, March 15, much of which took place in closed session to discuss individual employee evaluations and job descriptions.

By Sandy Morris The Old Jail Art Center has always offered a variety of opportunities, and visitors may have been on docent-led tours, utilized printed guides or interactive ­kiosks, or participated in scavenger-style text tours.

By Sandy Morris The sophomore Cross Examination debate team of Leddie Leech and Ella Webb competed in the state meet on Monday, March 15. The team debated four rounds but did not make the finals held on Tuesday.  Sponsor Jenny Scott said it was a long day for the girls, but they never quit.

By Sandy Morris Classes in the Albany schools will resume on Monday morning, March 22 following a week-long spring break, and AISD students and staff were happy to learn that their upcoming Easter weekend will not be cut short.

By Sandy Morris Albany junior high and high school held cheerleader tryouts on Friday, March 12 prior to Spring Break. The 2021-2022 varsity squad will include Kam Browning, Elizabeth Chavez, Savannah Hobbs, Brooke Kayga, Avery Kleiner, Gracie Price, Ella Webb, and Robyn Trail.

By Sandy Morris A raffle and a brisket plate fundraiser are scheduled at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, March 21 to benefit local resident Kristi Brooker.  Brooker, who is fighting stage four breast cancer, has been a long-time supporter of the community and continues to serve as a volunteer firefighter.

MMPC youth minister Spencer Newsom covers a local student’s head with shaving cream during a game at last week’s Junior High Worship Night at the Feed Store. Students were treated to dinner, with a devotional and fun packed into the evening.

By Sandy Morris Easter will be celebrated on Sunday, April 4 this year, and local churches are announcing special services and activities.  Community Easter Service The Ministerial Alliance continues to work on plans for the Easter Community Service.