Wait… You thought this was breaking news? Not quite.

By Lynsi Perry Musselman

Speaking of dramatic objects from the sky, Albany’s Fort Griffin Historic Site boasts some astounding night sky views. Visitors to the site have described seeing clear celestial objects such as planets, constellations, and even some meteor showers. In recent years, and with the evolution of high powered equipment for the layman, the hobby of astrophotography has skyrocketed.

By David H. Waller

Strong winds swept through Albany on Friday, kicking up dust and making for a gusty afternoon across Shackelford County. The highest recorded sustained wind speed in Albany hit 39 mph at 2 p.m., with gusts reaching 60 mph. Dust from the west filled the air, reducing visibility and leaving a layer of dirt across town. Residents reported strong gusts rattling windows and sending loose debris flying, making travel difficult throughout the afternoon.

By Melinda L. Lucas

Basic information about scholarships being awarded to this year’s graduating class at Albany High School is needed by the first part of next week.

Payton Rogers at the AHS office needs to update her list of available scholarships and requirements and would like to be contacted by the end of the day on Monday, March 24.

Representatives of scholarship boards can email Rogers at paytonrogers@albany.esc14.net or call her at 325-762-3974.

By David H. Waller

It’s Albany Live week in town, and this Saturday, the Bellamy Brothers will hit the Aztec Theater stage for the third show of the season. The country music duo, known for hits like Let Your Love Flow and Redneck Girl, has been entertaining fans for nearly five decades, and their stop in Albany is shaping up to be a big one.

Ticket sales have been strong, but a few seats are still up for grabs. Organizers encourage anyone wanting to catch the show to secure their tickets soon.

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. Waller

The 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. Lucas

After 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.

Whitmore began work in the museum’s education department in 2010, and was promoted to education director in 2012.

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. Simpson and his team make smiles, not evil plans! 

By Berkley Davis

By Sam Waller

Albany FFA’s Madalein Beard placed fourth over the weekend in the Junior Hereford Heifer at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.

The result continues a strong winter show season for Beard, who has placed well at several shows with heifers she exhibited at the Shackelford County Livestock Show.

Several Albany FFA and Shackelford County 4-H members are in Houston this week showing hogs.

4-H Notes