The Albany Mainstreet Playhouse will bring down the curtain on its 2024–2025 season this weekend with The Curious Savage, a classic comedy by John Patrick. The production will take the stage at the Aztec Theater August 22–24, with evening performances on Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m.

The Albany ISD board of trustees met Monday, August 18, focusing on accountability ratings, teacher pay, and the district’s financial outlook for the coming school year.Superintendent Daryl Stuard reported that Albany ISD received an overall B rating (81) in the state’s accountability system.

With the new school year underway, the Albany ISD staff is reminding families of the importance of safety, patience, and consistency during morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up – particularly in the circle drive in front of the Nancy Smith Elementary School campus.

The 7th annual CareFest took place this past Saturday, August 16, at the Happy Wife Happy Life Weddings and Events Venue.CareFest co-coordinator Ragan Riley said the day exceeded expectations. “It was a great turnout,” Riley said.

The fall semester is off to a fast-paced start for Albany FFA and Shackelford County 4-H members, with livestock entries, tag orders, sales, and validations scheduled almost weekly from now through mid-December.

By Melinda L. LucasThe Shackelford County Hospital District Board formally appointed a new EMS director, approved a “balanced” 2026 budget, and proposed a slight tax rate increase during its regular monthly meeting on Monday, Aug. 18.

The 7th annual CareFest is set for Saturday, August 16, at the Happy Wife Happy Life Weddings and Events Venue. The festival will be run for the first time this year by Big Country C.A.R.E.S., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, with all proceeds continuing to benefit ResourceCare.

Albany ISD welcomed students back to class Wednesday, August 13, with an opening-day enrollment lower than in recent years.The district ended last school year with 475 students enrolled.

A man scheduled to have his case heard during a docket of trials at the Shackelford County Courthouse last week collapsed from a heart attack while seated in the front row.

By David H. WallerFor the first time in several years, The Albany News will be updating its subscription and advertising prices. The new rates will go into effect with the next issue, Thursday, August 21, 2025.