3 new county COVID-19 tests given

By Donnie A. Lucas

After almost a month without any new COVID-19 testing, Shackelford County has recorded three new tests during the last week, according to county judge Robert Skelton.

Two of the recent tests have already come back as negative, while the result for the third is still pending.

Texas governor Greg Abbott enacted the third phase of the plan for the state to safely open the economy while containing the spread of COVID-19.

As of last Wednesday, all Texas businesses were allowed to open with at least 50 percent capacity. 

With only one positive case in the county, which was released from quarantine a month ago, most local businesses including restaurants were already at 50 percent capacity.

Starting Friday, restaurants that have been operating with a 50 percent limitation will be able to increase to 75 percent of occupancy. The maximum table size was also increased from six to 10 persons.

The Albany city council voted Monday to open the city pool on Monday, June 15 at 50 percent capacity which is a number just under 150 swimmers at a time.

Another sign of the easing of restrictions this week was summer conditioning sessions at the high school for student athletes, marking the first time students have been allowed back on campus in groups that large since the closure on March 16.

The Phase III announcement also allows for larger outdoor gatherings, such as Fourth of July celebrations, if local officials and public health officials collaborate on safe standards.

Despite the lessening of restrictions, all businesses and individuals are asked to continue to follow the guidelines established by the Texas Department State Health Services:

•Individuals are urged to wear face coverings

•People should not be in groups greater than 10 people when possible

•People over age 65 are encouraged to stay home as much as possible

•People are asked to avoid nursing homes, assisted living facilities or long-term care facilities.