There is no place like home with “Hank”

September 19, 2019
By: Dwayne Page

There is no place like home with “Hank”

Hank is the Featured Pet of the Week from the DeKalb Animal Shelter from dwayne page on Vimeo.

The WJLE/DeKalb Animal Coalition featured “Pet of the Week” is a middle aged lab mix.

“Hank has already been neutered. He is such a sweet boy.  Hank is great on a leash and he is good with other dogs. He loves a good belly rub and a morning roll in the grass. He is really nice and laid back. Hank really needs a home. If you can give him one please call 615-597-3647,” said Shelter Director Megan Moore.

The shelter is currently open on Friday from 12 to 4 and Saturday from 10 to 12 noon. Phone 615-597-3647 (DOGS) or visit facebook. Located at 186 Transfer Station Road behind Tenneco Automotive

September 19, 2019
By: Dwayne Page

Last month DeKalb EMS joined first responders, the hospital, and other emergency services in putting their skills into practice during a mock disaster exercise. Less than a week later, a real life tragedy tested them again when ten people, including seven juveniles were injured in a two car crash in Smithville.

In recognition of their actions and professionalism in handling the crisis, Ascension Saint Thomas Health has presented the local ambulance service with an “Excellence in EMS Award”.

Brad Mullinax, Chief Administrative Officer of Saint Thomas DeKalb Hospital presented the award to DeKalb EMS Director Hoyte Hale this week. Members of the DeKalb EMS staff and other hospital officials and first responders joined them for the occasion.

“Saint Thomas started this award in January and has presented 4 awards to agencies that go above and beyond. Nominations are looked at carefully and multiple criteria must be met. Most importantly each award recipient has shown extraordinary care provided to our patients and community. DeKalb EMS embodies excellence in EMS,” said a hospital official.

The crash occurred on Wednesday night, September 4 on Highway 56 south and Joe Tittsworth Road in Smithville. Two adults and four children were in one of the vehicles while one adult and three kids were in the other automobile.

A landing zone for three helicopters was set up on Highway 56 near the crash scene. DeKalb EMS responded with three ambulances and received mutual aid support from Putnam County EMS which sent two ambulances.

All ten crash victims were transported to hospitals locally or elsewhere either by ambulance, helicopter, or private vehicle.

“Everything was put to the test that night but we have a great group of EMS staff and I am very proud of them. As always all the different agencies worked together in exercising their knowledge, professionalism and care for the patients.  On behalf of DeKalb EMS, we are honored to receive this special award,” said DeKalb EMS Director Hoyte Hale.

The following were gathered for the award presentation: left to right- Dr. Greenfield, Harlon McCloud, Kim Johnson, Amanda McCloud, Donny Green, Matt Adcock, Becky Atnip, Misty Green, Brad Mullinax, Stephanie Brown, Trent Phipps, Hoyte Hale, Danny Poss, Trevin Merriman, Donnie Cantrell,  Jamie Parsley, Matt Melton, and Jamie Vernon.

September 18, 2019
By: Dwayne Page

In what has become an annual event, the Alexandria Lions Club will sponsor a fundraiser next week in support of a DCHS graduate and in memory of a long time friend

The Joe Hearn Memorial Scholarship Fund Poker Run will be held Saturday, September 28 at the DeKalb County Fairgrounds in Alexandria featuring Hot Rods, Motorcycles, etc.

The Lions Club established this memorial scholarship fund as a tribute to the memory of Joe Hearn and is awarded to a high school vocational student each year. 2019 DCHS graduate Abigail Taylor was the recipient of the $1,000 scholarship in May.

Joe Hearn was an avid Ford Mustang lover and longtime dedicated member of the Alexandria Lions Club.

The entry fee for the Poker Run is $25, $5.00 per passenger and it includes a BBQ meal. Prizes will be awarded. Registration begins at 8 a.m. and the departure time is 9 a.m. The run will be approximately 2 hours. Map and draw stations to be announced the day of the event. The entire route will be on paved roads. For more information call Chris Hale or Brad Driver at 615-529-2580. Rain Date-October 5^th.

All are encouraged to participate to help further the education of a DCHS graduate.