This week, the spread of the coronavirus has accelerated worldwide. The epidemic continues to expand rapidly outside China, topping 90,000 cases and 3,200 deaths, according to the World Health Organization. As of Wednesday, The New York Times has reported more than 150 cases across 16 states and nine deaths linked to the virus.

In his quarterly report to the city council last month, Community Development Director Shane Spencer said he had reached the conclusion that the oil and gas industry that has so long driven the local economy might not rebound. Based on the declines in the oil and gas industry, he said, “I think it’s time to shift gears, to focus more on diversifying our economy.”

Canadian High School golfers competed Thursday, Feb. 27, in the Amarillo Invitational meet, held at the Ross Rogers Wild Horse Golf Course. The Lady Cat varsity improved on last week’s third-place showing at Burkburnett, claiming first-place overall among the seven-team competition. The Wildcat A-team placed fourth overall.

The Lady Cats had a combined score of 411. Childress was second with 414, and Quanah third with 421.

Wheeler County earned the dubious distinction last week of being deemed “the fastest-shrinking local economy in Texas.”