In my introductory column, I spoke of the vision of Holliday Assembly of God’s former pastor, Rev. Mike Wells. His dream was the beginning of the Harvest Food Ministry. It is continuing to operate and expand the number of people being served on a monthly basis.

As 2023 comes to an end, the Archer County News looks back at some of the top stories from throughout the year. This week, we take a look back at some of the top stories from July through December.

An Archer City man was indicted this month for his alleged role in a $60 million health care fraud, wire fraud and kickback scheme involving the submission of false and fraudulent claims to Medicare for medically unnecessary durable medical equipment (DME), genetic tests and foot bath medications.

By Nathan Lawson A former temporary employee of Haigood and Campbell in Archer City has been accused of illegally downloading more than 4,700 files of customer identification information including bank account, social security and credit card numbers. Megan Bushfield-Riley was charged with fraudulent use or possession of identifying information and was booked into the Archer County jail on a $125,000 bond.

The Archer City ISD school board approved the district’s 2022-2023 financial audit during its meeting on Thursday, Dec. 21.

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The Archer County Commissioner’s Court approved three sheriff’s office related action items during its meeting on Wednesday, Dec. 27.

It would do us all some good to remember during this season, one of the reasons that Jesus came to this earth is to show us that He is greater than anything we will face in life. While we often get so concerned with what's going on with here and now, Jesus had a far more important concern. He cares about our eternal home. In view of celebrating the birth of Christ, Luke 2:12 says 'And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.” A manger was not a nice soft modern crib like we have today but probably a feed trough with hay for animals. After His birth, we know that Jesus walked this earth physically for about thirty-three years. During His time on this earth, He stood for truth and often declared what was not popular and easy. After the manger, Jesus grew up to be bold, strong, and intentional. There are several examples of His boldness and here are three that show His courage.

Wilbarger County Attorney Jon Whitsitt has announced plans to seek election as the 46th Judicial District Attorney for Wilbarger, Hardeman, and Foard counties. Whitsitt was born and raised in Archer City where he graduated high school in 2003.