Lucases honored with Cornerstone Award
Donnie and Melinda Lucas were presented with the Cornerstone Award by the Albany Chamber of Commerce during the annual Crawfish Boil, receiving the recognition in front of a large crowd gathered for the spring event.
Both Donnie and Melinda studied journalism at Angelo State University, but it was their shared time in the ASU band that brought them together. Donnie, a 1972 graduate of Nixon High School, earned his degree in August 1976. Melinda, who graduated from Albany High School in 1973, finished her degree the following December.
Donnie first moved to Albany to teach English at Albany High School, but in 1977, he purchased The Albany News from James Lenamon. His first issue hit the stands on April 1 of that year. He and Melinda were married in 1979 at First Baptist Church of Albany, where they have remained active members ever since, serving in Sunday School and on numerous church committees.
In the 1970s, Melinda’s parents, Art and Betty Viertel, purchased the original Albany News building from James Lenamon. A few years later, Donnie and Melinda bought it from them and operated from that location for five decades.
Throughout their years in Albany, the Lucases have been deeply involved in the community. Donnie served as Chamber president in the 1980s. Together, they have participated in almost every Fort Griffin Fandangle since their arrival—Donnie continuing in his long-standing role as the show’s narrator.
In 2000, Donnie returned to teaching, leading English, history and journalism classes at Albany High School. He revived the student newspaper The Lions Roar, guiding it to two decades of success. Under his leadership, the publication earned a Star Award for 20 consecutive years and helped students achieve recognition in UIL journalism competitions.
After nearly 50 years and more than 2,500 editions of The Albany News, Donnie and Melinda sold the newspaper in November 2024 to David and Courtney Waller.
The Cornerstone Award is a fitting tribute to two individuals who have helped shape the story of Albany, both in print and in person.
