As we are beginning to see positive COVID-19 people in our community, it is IMPERATIVE that we continue with social distancing. I realize this is an inconvenience, but it is the ONLY proven way to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The CDC and the Alabama Department of Public Health are continuing to provide updates daily. We are continually revising our protocols as we receive those updates. I know we are a small community hospital, but I can tell you, we are prepared and equipped to care for our patients, you and your neighbors. The 6 ventilators, our Director of Respiratory secured is more than some larger hospitals and I’m sure you are watching the news and seeing what a valuable piece of equipment is in the treatment of COVID-19. I’d like to publicly thank Jennifer Spurgeon for the extra work and persistence to secure those ventilators. Our staff have all participated in additional infection control training and have been willing to learn and provide for the needs of our community. Our Facebook page is being updated daily, so if you have questions, please message us. In closing, if you see a health care worker out, please say a simple thank you. It means more than you know. We love our community. Stay in, stay calm, and Wash Your Hands.

Sincerely, Ashley

Winston County now has 2 confirmed cases of the coronavirus. Walker County has 24, Marion 7, Franklin 3. Three deaths statewide.

Lakeland Community Hospital will be offering a Walk-In Fever & Flu Clinic beginning Monday, March 23. The clinic will be located at the Lakeland Family Practice, 42030 Highway 195 Suite C in the Professional Office Building adjacent to Lakeland Community Hospital. The hours are Monday-Friday 8:00-4:30. (205)485-7227.

Wednesday, March 18, 2020 – MONTGOMERY – Following a joint press conference featuring Governor Kay Ivey, Secretary of State John H. Merrill, and Attorney General Steve Marshall, the March 31 Runoff Election will be postponed until July 14, 2020.

The Board of Education met Tuesday afternoon and approved the financial statements and expenditures for February in the amount of $1,417,114.27. The Board also approved amendments to the HHS fees, supplements and charges. Also approved was the purchase of two new full sized school buses for a total of $170,534.00. The purchase of a new lunchroom serving line for the HES for $69,908.00.

Four fundraisers were approved along with the retirement of Elizabeth Noble from the Haleyville Center of Technology.

The Board heard from Ray Forester about the upcoming 10th Annual Mark Forester Price of Freedom Race scheduled for May 16.Alabama Representative Tracy Estes was present to give an  update on the Legislature work in Montgomery. Of greatest concern was the bill which proposes to change the control of all the state school calendars from local control to Montgomery. Estes stated he was very much opposed to the change, based on his experience having served on the Winfield School Board. That sentiment was echoed by Superintendent Dr. Holly Sutherland and other members of the Board.

Dr. Sutherland stated in her report information about the school closing with plans for school to start back on April 6, but things can change. Discussions were being made about contingency plans if the school is closed longer than initially planned.

The Haleyville City Schools information can be found on its Facebook page and other social media. HBTV.us will pass along any plans or changes also.