Sitting quietly off Highway 6 in Albany, the Hereford Motel has been a witness to decades of history and a destination for travelers seeking rest. Originally opened in 1952, the 14-room motel became a familiar sight for ranchers, hunters, and families exploring Shackelford County. Today, thanks to a meticulous renovation by its new owners, Jason Harlow and Brook Hatchett, and a branding collaboration with Ashlar Projects, the Hereford Motel has stepped into a new era, blending modern comforts with a nod to historic local ranches.

The Shackelford Youth and Livestock Association is starting its final fundraising push ahead of the 2025 county livestock show.

Events such as a summer golf scramble, the First Impressions Pig Sale, and the Shackelford County Showdown jackpot pig show have raised approximately $70,000 to be used for this year’s sale, according to association member Reggy Spencer. The task now, association president Bronco Askew said, is to add to that amount.

More than 200 Nancy Smith Elementary School students participated Wednesday, Dec. 11, in the school’s inaugural Jingle Run with dozens of turkeys handed out to families in the community.

“I’d say we had about 95 percent of the school there,” said NSES PE teacher Makinzie Tomascik, who organized the event with fellow PE teacher Ashlyn  Bevel.” The kids had a lot of fun doing it and the parents showed up and were supportive. A lot of kids and families got to take a turkey home.”

While most high school juniors are still getting used to having a driver’s license, Cache Clark has gone one step further.

Clark, a junior at Albany High School, qualified for his pilot’s license on Thursday, Nov. 21 after more than a year of training. But he’s logged much more time in the air.

“I’ve been flying with my grandfather (Tom Clark) and my dad (Cary Clark) since I was 12 or 13,” he said. “My grandfather is an instructor and my dad has his regular license.”

That was more than enough motivation for Clark to pursue his own license.