By Melinda L. LucasA couple of local organizations got some much-needed funding recently as the result of a county ranch owner’s generosity.

By Sam WallerArea churches are participating in the Open Door Pregnancy and Family Resource Center current fundraiser.

By Sam WallerThe Big Country Fellowship of Christian Athletes Weekend of Champions boys camp is set for Friday, Feb. 18, through Sunday, Feb. 20, at Eastland’s Solid Rock Encampment.FCA organizer Paul Johnston of Albany said the event will follow a similar format to the girls camp held last month.

By Sam WallerFirst Baptist Church of Albany will conduct a two-night youth revival Friday, Feb. 18 and Saturday, Feb. 19.Services will begin at 7:00 p.m. on each of the two nights with dinner following the services.Christian singer Michala Huckabay and her band will perform each night.

By Sam WallerMore than 3,000 truffles were sold as part of Project Graduation’s Valentine sale fundraiser, according to organizer Kenzie Fairchild.“The Valentine sale went very well,” Fairchild said. “So far, all the fundraisers have gone well.

By Donnie A. LucasA group of Albany High School band students will compete in the UIL Solo and Ensemble contest at Wylie High School in Abilene on Saturday.A total of 13 students have been preparing for the contest, which offers three levels of difficulty.

By Donnie A. LucasAlbany High held an area competition for the Small Schools Academic Challenge last Thursday, advancing three teams to the state meet.Albany’s three teams took first through third place, moving on to the state meet on Feb. 27 at the University of Mary Hardin Baylor in Belton.

By Melinda L. LucasA project that has been delayed several times in the last couple of years may actually be getting closer to a start time, according to a report at Monday’s Shackelford County commissioners meeting.

By Melinda L. LucasAlbany city manager Billy Holson reviewed his recommended 2022-2023 budget figures with council members at their Monday, Feb. 14 meeting, but no action was taken on the $3.475 million document.The bottom line is more than the current year’s $3.

By Donnie A. LucasThe number of positive COVID-19 cases tested locally dropped to its lowest level in weeks, with 14 positives recorded from the 33 tests administered.Total positive test results dropped from 22 positive cases the week of Jan. 31 through Feb.