By Sam WallerThe next round of deadlines for Albany FFA and Shackelford County 4-H members planning to exhibit livestock at winter shows is quickly approaching.The deadline for swine tag orders is Monday, Nov. 7, followed by the deadline for all uploads for heifers, sheep and goats on Tuesday, Nov.

By Sam WallerThe Albany FFA chapter freshmen took part in the Big Country District Greenhand Conference Tuesday, Oct. 25, in Abilene.Albany’s 14 freshmen were among 218 in attendance, participating in leadership, team-building and social events.

By Sam WallerAlbany’s Leddie Leech was among 24 youth and 13 adults honored during the District 7 4-H Gold Star and Silver Clover Banquet.The banquet was held Monday, Oct. 24 at the Bill Franklin Center in Coleman.

By Sam WallerHunting seasons for white-tailed deer and Rio Grande turkey open Saturday, Nov. 5 and run through Jan. 1.Game Warden Jacob Mort said the outlook for both seasons is down from a year ago.

By Sam WallerThe Nail Ranch team, which included three Albany students, won the overall title at the Working Ranch Cowboys Association’s North Texas Youth Ranch Rodeo on Saturday, Oct. 22 at Decatur.

By Melinda L. LucasPick-up dates for the November distribution of the commodity food program will be Thursday, Nov. 3 and Friday, Nov. 4.Certified families in Moran should pick up their monthly commodity food at the Moran City Hall between 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. on Nov. 3.

By Sam WallerShackelford County 4-H will hold its annual Friendsgiving meal at 1:00 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 13 at The Feed Store.Shackelford County extension agent said the meal will be a potluck affair.“The 4-H club will provide ham and turkey,” Bell said.

By Donnie A. LucasFour new ­COVID-19 cases were reported last week, as the number of local cases continues to remain low based on information provided by Albany’s two health clinics.

By Sam WallerMoran Independent School District will conduct its Veterans Day program at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 10 in the school gymnasium.

By Melinda L. LucasThis weekend’s Fandangle Sampler at the Red Steagall Cowboy Gathering could mean a future performance in a bigger venue.More than 40 cast members are making final preparations for a show on Saturday, Oct. 29 at the historic Fort Worth Stockyards, to be staged at 2:00 p.m.