DCHS Jazz Band Ensemble Takes Center Stage

March 24, 2023
By:

The DCHS Jazz Ensemble, a 10-piece local jazz band, delivered a stellar performance that was both entertaining and inspiring Thursday night at the Harvester Event Center downtown Smithville. Members of the ensemble were Cadence Orcutt – Alto Sax, B.J. Mosely – Tenor Sax, Ayden Jones – Trumpet, Jayden Wildes – Trumpet, Alexis Stanley – Trumpet, Nate Hall – Trombone, Owen Warren – Trombone, Karson Smallwood – Guitar/Drums, Gavin Conger – Drums, Don Whitt, Band Director – Keyboard

The DCHS Jazz Ensemble powered through songs that covered many decades of music including: The Peter Gunn Theme, Burritos To Go, Fever, Feeling Good, Old Time Rock N Roll, and a rousing Glenn Miller number that gave way to a standing ovation. Each student was introduced and accolades were deservedly given for this a tight knit bunch: they all showed poise, class, talent, and showmanship, which is something that not everyone has. Energetic solos were accentuated by the soulful softness and that playful vibe that only true jazz can bring. Way ahead of the game on the road to something that can be enjoyed their entire lives. You can still make a donation because this band needs your love and financial support (Mr. Whitt mentioned they are trying to acquire a tuba). The main benefit is Saturday, March 25 with the 1920’s Spring Formal starting at 4 p.m. featuring the Beasley Court Big Band. Your ticket to this special event at the Harvester includes a donation directly to the DCHS Band.

March 24, 2023
By: Dwayne Page

The DeKalb County Election Commission hosted a worker reception Thursday at the County Complex.

Dozens of people across the county who have helped work elections for years and especially last year attended the get together for fellowship and light refreshments.

The new voting machine, which is scheduled to be used in March 2024, was also available for viewing and demonstration.

“We wanted to show the workers they are appreciated and they are the ones who help make the electoral process in DeKalb County a success,” said Chairman Walteen Parker.

“These election workers follow the law verbatim. They don’t deviate. They treat everyone equally. We can trust their integrity. It has helped to maintain the integrity of the elections in DeKalb County,” said Chairman Parker.

“We wanted to recognize these workers because without them there is no election process. We have 12 precincts and it takes a lot of workers and we appreciate every one of them,” said Administrator of Elections Dennis Stanley.

Sue Corley, a current election worker who began in the 1970’s, was recognized for her tenure of service.

Two long time election workers, now deceased, were also remembered, Deana Mai Green and Brenda Hooper.

March 23, 2023
By: Dwayne Page

The DeKalb County Commission Monday night adopted a resolution honoring the life of a US Marine from Smithville who was killed in a 2021 California traffic accident.

20-year-old Lance Cpl. Alberto Lucio, a 2019 graduate of DeKalb County High School, was struck and killed Monday, December 6, 2021 while he assisted a driver and passenger in a disabled SUV from another crash on Interstate 5 near where he was stationed at Camp Pendleton in San Diego, California. According to the California Highway Patrol, a box truck crashed into Lucio and the disabled SUV. Lucio died at the scene.

Members of Lucio’s family were in attendance at the county commission meeting Monday night for the tribute.

During a county commission committee of the whole meeting Thursday night, County Mayor Matt Adcock said Veteran Service Officer Bill Rutherford recently contacted him on behalf of the Lucio family.

“I got an application turned in by Mr. Rutherford. Someone he knows reached out to him from the family wanting some kind of memorial. I gave him a resolution application that we recently created to be filled out by the family and turned back in so we could prepare a resolution based on that information,” said County Mayor Adcock.

The county commission no longer names bridges, roads, and other landmarks in someone’s memory. Memorial resolutions are adopted instead.

Lucio was a member of the Security and Emergency Services Battalion at Camp Pendleton. His military awards included the National Defense Service Medal and the Global War on Terrorism Medal. In a statement after the crash, battalion commanding officer Col. John Black said Lucio “performed a noble and selfless act” when he stopped to provide “critical aid to a person in need.”

“Lance Cpl. Lucio gave his life in the service of others. His actions epitomized servant leadership and personified the very best in our emergency services personnel,” Black said. “Please honor Lance Cpl. Lucio’s memory through your actions, words and deeds.”

The Resolution to Honor the Life of Lance Corporal Alberto Lucio states as follows:

“Whereas, the DeKalb County Commission brings time to honor the life of Alberto Lucio,

Whereas, Alberto Lucio was born on May 28, 2001 in Smithville, Tennessee,

Whereas, Lucio was a graduate of DeKalb County High School in 2019,

Whereas, Lucio was a member of the Iglesia Bethel Church,

Whereas, Lucio joined the United States Marine Corps on September 9th, 2019,

Whereas, Lucio graduated from the Parris Island, South Carolina Boot Camp,

Whereas, Lucio was assigned to the 2nd platoon, military police company, where he was promoted to the position of Lance Corporal in 2020,

Whereas, Lucio was charged with the duties of maintaining the well-being and safety of Camp Pendleton’s marines and civilians,

Whereas, Lucio received the National Defense Service Medal and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal,

Whereas, Lucio passed away on December 6, 2021 while attempting to assist a bystander that had a motor vehicle accident,

Whereas, Lucio gave his life in the service of others with actions of true hospitality and servant leadership,

Whereas, Lucio leaves behind his beloved wife, Stephany Lucio, His father and mother, Jose and Nereyda Lucio

Be it resolved by the DeKalb County Commission that we honor the memory of Alberto Lucio, reflecting fondly upon his impeccable character and his stalwart commitment to living the examined life with courage and conviction.

Be it further resolved that we express our sympathy and offer our condolences to the family of Alberto Lucio”

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