By Kathy Thomson Several local churches have changed or cancelled upcoming services and events due to the government’s request that everyone try to limit the spread of COVID19.

By Kathy Thomson Closet Angels and Neighbors in Need will both be closed until further notice, and neither will be able to accept any donations during the current coronavirus outbreak.

Albany firefighter Jeff Hill received the Purdue-Pickard Outstanding Student Award at the Mid-West Texas Introductory Firefighter Academy at the close of the school on March 7.

By Kathy Thomson The spread of SARS-CoV-2, the novel coronavirus which causes the disease COVID-19, has quickly upended everyday life around the world, with quarantines, school closures, event cancellations, working from home, and empty spaces on store shelves becoming the new normal for many.

By Donnie A. Lucas Albany school officials have announced that all school facilities, including the weight room, gyms and the “green room” have been closed to both students and the public through March 31.

By Donnie A. Lucas The Lion baseball team was off to a strong start with a pair of wins during the first day of the Brock tournament, only to have the rest of the three-day event canceled due to rain and possible concerns over the coronavirus.

[EDITOR’S NOTE:  At press time on Wednesday, there were rumors that the UIL had cancelled all athletic events for the remainder of the school year, but the News was not able to confirm that in time for this edition. If that proves to be the case, most of the facts in this story are obsolete.

By Kathy Thomson Albany High junior Wesley Estridge competed in the Texas High School Powerlifting Association Region 1, Division 3 Championships in Sundown last Saturday, but did not advance to state. The initial event was the squat, followed by bench press, and then dead lift.

By Kathy Thomson Three local youth made the sale at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo before the event closed early due to the coronavirus pandemic.

By Kathy Thomson The Moran Independent School District, like other districts in the Big Country area, extended spring break due to concerns about COVID-19. As of press time on Wednesday, MISD had decided on another extension and hopes to resume classes on April 3.