By Donnie A. LucasPreliminary scores for the spring 2023 STAAR testing for grades 3-8 were released by the Texas Education Agency last week, with local scores exceeding or matching statewide scores in almost all areas.

By Melinda L. LucasEven though Shackelford County commissioners did not have final tax rate calculations at their Aug. 14 meeting, they continued trimming the budget for the fiscal year that starts Oct.1 and filed a proposed budget as required by law.

By Donnie A. LucasSix well-known country performers including headliners Pat Green and Kevin Fowler will be in Albany in just over a week for the fifth annual CareFest concert held at the Happy Life, Happy Wife Weddings and Event venue located just west of town on FM 1084.Gates will open at 4:00 p.

Albany ISD’s Teachers of the Year, selected by their peers at the end of the 2022-2023 school year, were announced at the district breakfast last week. Kelli Kreitler (l) and Chanel Hayner (r) were presented with personalized directors chairs.

By Melinda L. LucasA special meeting of the Albany city council is expected to be scheduled in the next week or two to discuss and possibly propose a tax rate for the upcoming tax year.

By Sam WallerIncoming Shackelford 4-H officers got a look at local government in action Monday, Aug. 14 by attending a meeting of Shackelford County Commissioners Court.Shackelford County extension agent Kelsey Bell said it was a great experience for the group.

By Donnie A. LucasThe Ragin’ Red Lion Band will host a Meet the Band performance on Monday, Aug. 21 in the High School Auditorium starting at 8:00 p.m.

By Melinda L. LucasDaivis Gallagher started organizing a classroom just a few days ago, and as the 2023-2024 school year at Nancy Smith Elementary School got underway on Thursday, Aug. 17, she began her first day as an Albany ISD teacher.

By Sam WallerShackelford County students planning to exhibit livestock projects at fall shows have one week to complete the entry process.Albany FFA advisor Chris Beard said Friday, Aug. 25 is the deadline for entering both the State Fair of Texas in Dallas and the Heart of Texas Fair in Waco.

By Sam WallerFirst Baptist Church of Albany will host Back-to-Church Sunday this week (Sunday, Aug. 20) to help get people back into a routine of attending services as children return to school.