By Donnie A. LucasThe number of local ­COVID-19 cases has snowballed over the last week, with test results increasing four-fold and rising.

By Sam WallerHarmony Slaughter and Arren Hawley were crowned queen of the Winter Formal as Moran High School students celebrated the end of the fall semester.The event, which was sponsored by Moran’s senior class, was held Dec. 18 at the Moran Community Center.

Hunters still have a chance to bag a trophy during special seasons on the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department calender.Youth-Only (16 and younger) and Special Late white-tailed deer seasons run through Jan. 16. A Youth-Only fall turkey season also is open through Jan. 16.

By Sam WallerRegistration for Little Dribblers basketball got underway this week for the upcoming season.“Registration forms went out (Tuesday) morning, and I hope to get those back by Friday,” league organizer Joe Tidwell said.

By Melinda L. LucasThe first Chamber luncheon of 2022 is scheduled for Friday, Jan. 7 at the Beehive.Chamber luncheons are held each Friday from 12:00 noon to 1:00 p.m. and are open to anyone who would like to get involved and help with the various Chamber projects throughout the year.

By Melinda L. LucasThe City of Albany will test the emergency warning siren at 12:00 noon on Wednesday, Jan. 12, as it does the second Wednesday of every month, depending on the weather.

By Sam WallerVoter registration cards for Shackelford County were mailed out on Tuesday, Jan. 4, in time for the March 1 primary elections.“We have to have them postmarked by Jan. 12, so we got them out in plenty of time for that deadline,” said Belinda Perez in the county voter registration office.

By Sam WallerVolunteers from Matthews Memorial Presbyterian Church and the rest of the community served approximately 120 meals as part of the annual MMPC Christmas Feast.

By Sam WallerApproximately two dozen junior high and high school students, along with adult leaders, had to deal with a last-minute change of plans but were able to enjoy their ski trip over the Christmas holiday.

By Donnie A. LucasA group of registered nurses from Lubbock will present a pair of programs next Thursday, Jan. 13 both for secondary school students and the public on the dangers of using illegal and synthetic drugs, including the use of vaping products.