By Donnie A. 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. at the Moran City Hall today, and again Friday from 9:00 until 11:00 a.

By Sam WallerPlanning continues for the Shackelford County livestock show with fundraisers underway and a work day at the county show barn scheduled.The show will be held Jan 20-22.

By Melinda L. LucasAt a Dec. 27 meeting, Shackelford County commissioners heard an update from 259th Judicial District chief probation officer Jon Cooke about the possible need for additional funding to pay housing of a local juvenile placed in Hayes County.

By Donnie A. LucasAfter a week of fewer positive test results just before Christmas, the number of COVID-19 cases rose again last week, according to a report issued by Shackelford County judge Robert Skelton on Monday.For the week of Dec.

By Melinda L. LucasJust a couple of days before Christmas, almost $12,000 was still needed to reach the Albany Community Chest’s 2021 record goal of $46,000.

By Donnie A. LucasThe filing period for local elections to  various entities such as the school board, city council, and hospital board will begin Wednesday, Jan. 19.The election date set by the state for all local elections is Saturday, May 7.

By Sam WallerThe Albany Volunteer Fire Department presented Chief Travis Gardenhire with the 2021 Firefighter of the Year merit award at its annual Christmas party and meeting on Monday, Dec. 6.

By Sam WallerThe Old Jail Art Center is going straight from its holiday programs into planning its next big event, the Jewel of the Prairie gala fundraiser in February.Current exhibits will close Jan. 29, the Lunar New Year Family Festival will be Feb. 5, and new exhibits will open Feb.

By Sam WallerA Shackelford County landmark was damaged and a well-traveled road in the county cut off just before Thanksgiving.The Landreth Dam bridge has been closed to traffic since Nov.

By Melinda L. LucasThe start of a new year is a time for celebrating, and local emergency responders remind county residents to make sure that any fireworks used in the festivities are handled safely and legally.