By Lynsi Musselman With the first phase of loosening government restrictions underway, local restaurants are beginning to open their doors for inside dining. However, restrictions and changes are still being implemented to ensure the safety of patrons and staff members.

By Kathy Thomson Although a few local churches were able to hold normal services throughout the coronavirus shutdown, most had to move to some sort of online platform.  With Gov.

The City of Albany will test the emergency warning siren at 12:00 noon on Wednesday, May 13, as it does the second Wednesday of every month, depending on the weather.

By Kathy Thomson A “pepper spray” training at the Shackelford County Law Enforcement Center last week gave local LEC employees an “in your face” experience. County sheriff Ed Miller taught the four-hour OC session.

By Lynsi Musselman The Old Jail Art Center in Albany has decided to be cautious and wait for a future open date even though last week’s announcement by Gov. Greg Abbott allows for reopening.

By Lynsi Musselman Today Albany churches welcome all residents in observance of National Day of Prayer. From 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. those who wish to pray along with millions across the nation can enter any church to pray. Local pastors encourage visiting more than one church.

By Kathy Thomson Shackelford County Law Enforcement Center employee David Walls recently put in a garden at the LEC using funding contributed by the Albany Ministerial Alliance and items donated by Higginbotham Brothers. “No county funds were used,” said Walls.

By Kathy Thomson Future Aggie and current Albany High School senior Addison Asher is one of three 2020 graduates who will benefit from the generosity of the late Archylou Kinchen Dickie as a recipient of one of the scholarships she helped fund in memory of her husband George D. Dickie Jr.

By Donnie A. Lucas Albany native and 2015 AHS graduate Molly Lee has always been a bit of a character.

By Kathy Thomson The Fort Griffin Fandangle board of directors will meet early next week to discuss the summer show, according to artistic director Lorna Ayers. “After Governor Greg Abbott’s announcement on Monday, the board decided to convene on Monday, May 4 to discuss our options,” said Ayers.