By Melinda L. LucasMembers of the Shackelford County Hospital District’s board of directors heard the 2020 audit report and also took action to temporarily replace EMS supervisor Tina Ulbrich because of an upcoming medical leave during the regular December meeting on Monday night.

By Sam WallerA tractor-trailer carrying concrete conduits overturned and spilled its load on the morning of Thursday, Dec. 16, shutting down at least two lanes and at times all four lanes of U.S. Highway 180 on the east side of Albany for several hours.

News readers and advertisers are asked to be aware that no newspaper will be published, either in print or online, the week after Christmas, and that the office will close early on Dec. 23.“There will not be an edition on Thursday, Dec. 30,” said News editor Melinda Lucas.

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.