By Sam WallerFive homes in Albany were recognized for their holiday displays by judges of the Albany Chamber of Commerce’s house decorating contest.The home of Samantha Isbell was awarded first place with a prize of 100 Albany Bucks.

By Donnie A. LucasAnyone who doesn’t have lunch plans on Christmas Day this Saturday is invited to attend the annual Christmas Feast set from 11:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at the Matthews Memorial Presbyterian Church.This is the 13th year that the church has provided a meal for the community on Dec.

By Donnie A. LucasSome of the props and facilities of the Fort Griffin Fandangle are showing their age, prompting the board of directors to initiate a capital improvements drive to make needed updates.

By Sam WallerThe Chelsey’s Project ministry will continue despite a fire that destroyed its building last week.A structure in the 500 block of North Sixth Street that Chelsey’s Project director Blanca Sanchez used to store items caught fire on Wednesday night, Dec. 8.Lt.

By Donnie A. LucasFor the second year, Albany will honor its veterans at the Albany Cemetery with a Christmas wreath laying ceremony on Saturday, Dec. 18.Volunteers and family members will gather at 11:00 a.m.

By Donnie A. LucasThe filing period for the March 1 primary elections ended on Monday, with no new candidates signing up for the available offices this election cycle.

By Melinda L. LucasNews readers and advertisers are reminded that there will be no paper published Dec. 30 during the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day.The News office will be open on Monday through Thursday, Dec. 27-30 of that week.

By Donnie A. LucasThe Albany school board moved to appoint a  new member to fill a vacant seat, accepted one resignation, and approved a one-time payment to all school employees during a meeting held Monday, Dec. 13.

By Melinda L. LucasMost of Monday night’s brief December city council meeting was a review of November and year-to-date finances by city manager Billy Holson, along with an explanation of the need to replace “trains” of membranes at the water plant.

By Melinda L. LucasTwo different proposals heard by Shackelford County commissioners on Monday could cost the county as much as $300,000, although there are already funds that could cover a lot of that amount.