About 20 Albion city employees gathered at City Hall recently for a group photo marking the close of a busy year of public service. The photo was taken following a year-end holiday employee gathering held on Friday, Dec. 12, at the Ismon House.

While December is traditionally a demanding month for city staff, the gathering offered a brief opportunity for colleagues from across departments to relax and enjoy one another’s company before winter weather added to their already full workloads. City operations run year-round, and the group photo represents just a portion of the approximately 60 employees who keep Albion’s services running every day.

The event was organized with the help of Lenn Reid, who emphasized that the most important part of the celebration was recognizing the local businesses that contributed door prizes, helping make the afternoon memorable for employees.

City officials and staff expressed their appreciation to the Albion businesses that donated prizes, including Pizza Hut, Albion Malleable Brewery, Foundry Bake House, Anna’s House of Flowers, Sterling Books and Brew, Marathon Gas Station, Family Fare, Taco Bell, and Courtyard by Marriott Hotel.

“These gestures of support from local businesses mean a great deal,” Reid said. “They helped make the gathering special and reminded employees that their work is noticed and appreciated by the community they serve.”

Although only a portion of the city workforce was able to attend the gathering or be present for the photo, the recognition was intended to honor all Albion city employees for their dedication throughout the past year.