The Albany City Council met on March 17, addressing a range of topics, including approving fire department equipment purchases, discussing a solid waste rate increase, reviewing city financials, and approving the 2025-26 budget.Fire Department Equipment Approved

By David H. WallerThe Albany ISD Board of Trustees met on March 17 to review district performance, approve the 2025-26 school calendar, and discuss key issues including staffing updates, facility improvements, and upcoming events. Testing Scores

By Melinda L. LucasAfter 15 years of dedicated service, Erin Whitmore is leaving her post later this spring as Education Director at The Old Jail Art Center to transition into a museum/visual art education role in the DFW area, with a special reception planned on March 22.

Last week, we invited young writers to share their Spring Break adventures—real or imagined! This week’s story takes us on a magical journey filled with castles, quests, and even an “evil dentist.” But don’t worry—that can’t be Albany Dental, our great Kids Corner sponsor. Dr.

Clint ChapmanMaranatha FellowshipOFFENSE

William Ray Morrell, 81, passed away at his home on Wednesday, March 12, 2025. A graveside service was held on Monday, March 17 in the Albany Cemetery.Bill Morrell was born June 30, 1943, in Stamford, Texas to Angela and Marshall “M.E.” Morrell.

David Matthew Timms, 58 passed away February 28, 2025 at his home in Ingleside, Texas. David was born in Mesquite, Texas on February 20, 1967, to Kenneth (Butch) Timms and the late Carol Johnson Timms.

Sandra Genera Gillespie Campbell of San Angelo, Texas, died on March 16 at the age of 82. Graveside services will be held on Saturday, March 22, at 2 p.m. at Johnson’s Lawnhaven Gardens in San Angelo.

March Madness is underway, and The Albany News is inviting you to take part in our Bracket Challenge! Inside this week’s paper, you’ll find the full NCAA Men’s Tournament bracket to fill out and submit.

By Melinda L. LucasAn unspecified “investment opportunity” for the Shackelford County Hospital District and also positioning the district’s Foundation Fund to earn more interest were two of the discussion’s during the regular monthly meeting of the board on Monday, March 17.