Tyler Beard graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agribusiness from Tarleton State University on Dec. 5, 2022.Tyler graduated magna cum laude with an overall average of 3.9 GPA. A 2020 graduate of Albany High School, Beard is the son of Chris and Susie Beard of Albany.

By Sam WallerAlbany’s Parker Henry made his first foray into strongman competition a successful one, winning his weight class in the Big Country Showdown.The event was held Saturday, Dec. 17 in Abilene, hosted by Riley Rodriguez of Heathen Training.

By Sam WallerMoran Independent School District began its spring semester Tuesday, Jan. 10, with 117 students for all grades.The enrollment figure has increased by more than 20 students since the first day of class back in August.

By Melinda L. LucasThe filing period for local elections to  various entities such as the school board, city council, and hospital board will begin Wednesday, Jan. 18.The election date set by the state for all local elections is Saturday, May 6.

By Melinda L. LucasSeveral Shackelford County elected officials, including first-time county judge John Viertel, took the oath of office during a brief ceremony in the second floor courtroom of the Shackelford County Courthouse on New Year’s Day, Jan. 1.

By Sam WallerShackelford County extension agent Kelsey Bell will host a continuing education program Friday, Jan. 13, at the Shackelford County Courthouse.Registration for Managing Wildlife as a Beef Producer begins at 8:00 a.m. in the second floor courtroom.

By Donnie A. LucasDespite picking up just over $10,000 in the last two weeks, the Albany Chest is still short almost $8,200 of the $47,000 goal set for the year.While technically the fund drive ended on Dec.

By Sam WallerPreparations for the Shackelford Youth and Livestock Show are picking up speed as the 2023 event draws nearer.Shackelford Youth and Livestock Association president Bronco Askew said fundraising letters have been sent out in advance of the show.

By Melinda L. LucasPick-up dates for the January distribution of the commodity food program are set for today (Thursday) in Moran and tomorrow for Albany recipients.The monthly food program will be held from 9:00 until 11:00 a.m.

By Donnie A. LucasPositive cases of both COVID-19 and the influenza were on the rise during the week prior to Christmas but slowed last week.A total of 16 positive COVID-19 results were reported for the week of Dec. 19-23, along with 22 positive tests for the flu.