By Donnie A. LucasJust over 100 county voters showed up in person last week to vote early in the upcoming Texas primary elections, which is about 100 fewer than two years ago during the 2020 primaries.

Tyler BeardTyler Beard, son of Chris and Susie Beard of Albany, was named to the President’s List at Tarleton State University with a 4.0 GPA for the fall 2021 term.The President’s List is one of the highest honors Tarleton confers on full-time students.

The Callahan-Shackelford County Farm Bureau has begun the new year with several new members on its board of directors.When directors retire or move from the county during their terms on the board, new directors are appointed to fill the vacancy until the term expires.

Every year, wildfires burn across Texas, and a growing number of people are living where wildfires are a real risk. It is a peril that impacts all parts of the state and can occur throughout the year.

By Sam WallerMoran ISD superintendent Dr. John Denson attended a meeting of the Region 14 Education Service West Texas Tech Co-op on Wednesday, Feb. 9, to discuss ways to improve internet availability for students.

By Sam WallerNancy Smith Elementary School counselor Susie Beard has been named Counselor of the Year by the Region 14 Education Service Center.Beard, in her third year as NSES counselor, has been employed by the Albany ISD for 23 years and involved in education for 31 years.

By Sam WallerThe Fort Griffin Fandangle Association has begun preparations for another season with the start of its membership drive, with letters mailed last week.Memberships are available at seven levels ranging from Pioneer at $25 to platinum at $5,000.

By Melinda L. LucasA couple of local organizations got some much-needed funding recently as the result of a county ranch owner’s generosity.

By Sam WallerArea churches are participating in the Open Door Pregnancy and Family Resource Center current fundraiser.

By Sam WallerThe Big Country Fellowship of Christian Athletes Weekend of Champions boys camp is set for Friday, Feb. 18, through Sunday, Feb. 20, at Eastland’s Solid Rock Encampment.FCA organizer Paul Johnston of Albany said the event will follow a similar format to the girls camp held last month.