23rd Annual DeKalb Relay for Life Still on Hold Due to COVID-19

May 26, 2020
By: Dwayne Page

Organizers of DeKalb County’s Relay for Life are still hoping to have this annual fundraising event for the American Cancer Society sometime this year but for now its still on hold due to COVID-19.

The 23rd Annual DeKalb County Relay for Life was originally set for May 1 and then postponed until May 29 before being suspended again until further notice.

Thousands of dollars have already been pledged and donated for this year’s Relay for Life and you too can join the effort by sending your contribution today to Iva Dell Randolph at 787 Keltonburg Road, Smithville 37166.

“We feel like our community has really made a difference and we are so appreciative to all who have participated over the years. We encourage you to help support this,” said Randolph.

“During this difficult time, cancer won’t stop; and neither will the American Cancer Society. Our mission matters more than ever. The needs of people facing cancer continue and so does our work. Cancer patients still need support. Because cancer research can’t stop. Our 24/7 helpline can’t stop. Where we can, we’re continuing our services to get patients the care and support they need. We stand together, even when we’re apart. Learn how you can help. Call 800-227-2345 or visit relayforlife.org,” said Marlene Delong, Senior Community Development Manager for the American Cancer Society.

May 25, 2020
By: Dwayne Page

Although the traditional Memorial Day program sponsored by the American Legion Post 122 will not be held today due to COVID-19, a brief ceremony will be held to place a wreath at the Veterans Memorial Monument outside the courthouse today at 12 noon. Prayers will be offered and taps played. Anyone wishing to attend may park at the courthouse and view the observance from their vehicles.

Members of the American Legion are also asking that the public place a green light bulb on their porch and burn it starting today (Monday) through Tuesday morning to honor our fallen heroes and veterans still living.

Two years ago, Vietnam Veteran and former TWRA officer Ben Franklin honored fallen soldiers and those still living who carry the scars of combat during his remarks at the 2018 Memorial Day remembrance at the county complex.

Franklin praised those who laid down their lives for this country, saying they did it to preserve the Constitution and the freedoms it stands for. It is because of them, Franklin said that we get to enjoy the Liberty we have today.

M2U02761 from dwayne page on Vimeo.

“I have been to 17 foreign countries but there is no place like the USA. We have more freedom than anybody anywhere, “ he said.

In today’s society, Franklin said many have a misplaced view of heroism.

“In my opinion they have a misguided perception of heroes. Most of them think they are people who can run fast or throw and catch a ball. Those who run up to each other and bump their chests and throw high fives. My idea of a hero is a 19 or 20 year old with a gun 6,000 miles away from home in Afghanistan or Iraq who doesn’t know who his enemy is. That is my idea of a hero,” he added.

Franklin admonished the audience to always remember those who served, both fallen soldiers and living veterans, as well as their families; those who treated wounded warriors during combat; POW’s and MIA’s; and the veterans who committed suicide due to the horrors of war after they returned home.

He also encouraged people to always exercise their privilege of voting and support candidates who will stand for the Constitution and “won’t take our freedoms away”, said Franklin.

Choking back emotion, Franklin closed his remarks by saying “God Bless the families of the soldiers who have died for this country. God Bless the Veterans and the Military soldiers who are serving today and God Bless America”.

May 27, 2020
By: Dwayne Page

The DeKalb Animal Shelter has lots of furry friends who need a good home including “Krew” the WJLE “Featured Pet of the Week”

“Krew was found as a stray. He is about a 1 year and 8 months old and has been tested and had all of his vaccinations including for rabies. Krew prefers to be curled up in your lap. He gets along well with other cats, children, and adults. He is ready to go,” said shelter employee Emmaly Bennett.

DeKalb Animal Shelter Employee Emmaly Bennett with Krew from dwayne page on Vimeo.

“To adopt Krew, go to our website. www.dekalbanimalcoalition.org and look for a tab to fill out an application. Fill it out and email it back to us. We will call to set up an appointment time for you to come in and meet Krew to see if he is a perfect fit for you,” said Bennett.

The DeKalb Animal Shelter is currently only open by appointment due to Covid-19.

“If you are interested in any of our dogs and cats fill out an adoption application and send it to our email. We will call and set up a time for you to come in and meet your favorite pet and go from there. We are not currently open to the public for in-person visits but all our pets are posted online. Stay up to date with us on our website, facebook page, or Instagram,” said shelter director Megan Moore.

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