By Donnie A. LucasFor the first time since last summer, there were no new cases of COVID-19 cases reported from the three local testing sites in Albany.A total of 11 tests were administered with no positive results during March 14-18.

By Sam WallerLast week’s wildfires in Eastland County saw several Shackelford County residents lend a hand in battling the blazes, while more have joined the relief effort this week.

By Melinda L. LucasEMS supervisor Tina Ulbrich announced at Monday’s meeting of the Shackelford County hospital board that she is resigning to take another position.

By Sam WallerThe Albany FFA team of Coy Lefevre, Ty Everitt, Cole Read, and Laithe Leech placed ninth out of 25 teams on Monday, March 7 at a wildlife judging contest at Anson.

By Sam WallerThe second phase of repair work on the Landreth Dam bridge has begun, closing the bridge to vehicle traffic for the duration.Shackelford County Precinct 2 commissioner Ace Reames said work began Monday, March 14.

By Melinda L. LucasA blood drive is scheduled to take place in Albany next Thursday, March 24.Hendrick Regional Blood Center will park its bloodmobile at First Baptist Church at the usual time from 1:00 until 6:00 p.m.

By Melinda L. LucasIn conjunction with the celebration of the Old Jail Art Center’s 40th anniversary celebration a couple of weeks ago was the opening of three new exhibitions, which will continue on display at the local museum through Aug. 20.

By Melinda L. LucasLocal residents are invited to join a special scripture-based study for those grieving the death of a family member or friend.According to Jenny Scott, who is helping facilitate the group, “GriefShare” will get the 13-week study underway on Wednesday, March 23, starting at 7:00 p.

By Sam WallerRed Sasquatch, a team that included Albany High School volleyball coach M.J. Reneau and players Sarah Cotter and Clara Holson, won the First Baptist Church youth group’s volleyball tournament Saturday, March 12 at the Albany High School gym.

By Donnie A. LucasThree members of the cast and crew of the Albany High School One Act Play received special recognition last week at the district contest held in Haskell.