By Sam WallerA program to introduce the new West Texas Mesonet station near Albany is being organized for Wednesday, Aug. 31, with adult continuing education units available.Shackelford County extension agent Kelsey Bell said plans are still being worked out.

By Melinda L. LucasAlbany High School ag instructor Chris Beard recently earned a 25-year tenure award from the Agriculture Teachers Association of Texas (ATAT) at the annual summer Professional Development Conference.

By Donnie A. LucasThere were several new COVID-19 cases reported last week, based on the tests administered at Albany’s two health clinics.The weekly report by county judge Bob Skelton issued Tuesday reported nine positive test results out of 15 tests given for the period of Aug. 1-5.

By Sam WallerShackelford County 4-Hers will celebrate their achievements from 2021-22 with a county banquet at 6:00 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 14 at the Whitney Theatre.Shackelford County extension agent Kelsey Bell said she received about 110 RSVPs for the event.

By Donnie A. LucasMembers of the Ragin’ Red Band will host a Meet the Band performance on Monday, Aug. 22 at 7:30 p.m. at the football stadium to showcase what they have learned during summer band practices, according to director William Vaughan.

By Donnie A. LucasMeet the Teacher sessions will be held at both Nancy Smith Elementary School and the junior/senior high campus on Monday, Aug. 15.Students entering K-3 will be able to find out their teachers for the coming school year from 5:00 p.m. until 5:30 p.m.

By Donnie A. LucasThere are several positions open for students who qualify for either the Head Start Program or the Pre-K Program at Nancy Smith Elelmentary.Parents who are interested in having a child participate in either program should contact the school to determine if they qualify.

The First Baptist Church held a back-to-school pool party on Sunday, Aug. 7, with several baptisms performed.FBC volunteers have scheduled JAM meetings for students to begin on Wednesday, Sept. 7, with specific times to be announced next week.

By Melinda L. LucasThe Old Jail Art Center’s summer camps are wrapping up this week with a Safari outing on Tuesday and a three-day virtual puppet workshop that started on Wednesday morning.Students in grades 1-3 spent a “wild day” of crafts and games in the on-site Safari camp earlier this week.

By Sam WallerEntry deadlines for major fall stock shows are approaching with Shackelford County students planning to exhibit a number of animals.Albany FFA advisor Chris Beard has set preliminary deadlines to allow him time to make sure entries are correctly submitted.