By Donnie A. LucasThere are several positions open for students who qualify for either the Head Start Program or the Pre-K Program at Nancy Smith Elelmentary.Parents who are interested in having a child participate in either program should contact the school to determine if they qualify.

By Donnie A. LucasMeet the Teacher sessions will be held at both Nancy Smith Elementary School and the junior/senior high campus on Monday, Aug. 15.Students entering K-3 will be able to find out their teachers for the coming school year from 5:00 p.m. until 5:30 p.m.

By Donnie A. LucasMembers of the Ragin’ Red Band will host a Meet the Band performance on Monday, Aug. 22 at 7:30 p.m. at the football stadium to showcase what they have learned during summer band practices, according to director William Vaughan.

By Sam WallerShackelford County 4-Hers will celebrate their achievements from 2021-22 with a county banquet at 6:00 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 14 at the Whitney Theatre.Shackelford County extension agent Kelsey Bell said she received about 110 RSVPs for the event.

By Donnie A. LucasThere were several new COVID-19 cases reported last week, based on the tests administered at Albany’s two health clinics.The weekly report by county judge Bob Skelton issued Tuesday reported nine positive test results out of 15 tests given for the period of Aug. 1-5.

By Melinda L. LucasAlbany High School ag instructor Chris Beard recently earned a 25-year tenure award from the Agriculture Teachers Association of Texas (ATAT) at the annual summer Professional Development Conference.

By Sam WallerA program to introduce the new West Texas Mesonet station near Albany is being organized for Wednesday, Aug. 31, with adult continuing education units available.Shackelford County extension agent Kelsey Bell said plans are still being worked out.

By Melinda L. LucasMore than 20 car burglaries have been reported in several Albany neighborhoods, apparently all occurring around midnight on Thursday, Aug.

By Melinda L. LucasLocal law enforcement officers had an unexpectedly busy weekend Aug. 5-8 with several DWI arrests and two ongoing cases that called for assistance from the Texas Rangers.

Bios of new staff members, along with faculty assignments and school supply lists, are included in the special back-to-school section in this week’s issue.