By Zach Hester, Reporter • zach@southerntorch.com

PHOTO: Janice Smith of Crossville was named Woman of the Year by the DeKalb County Homemakers and Community Leaders Club. (Submitted Photo)

DeKALB COUNTY, Ala. — Last month, the DeKalb County Homemakers and Community Leaders (HCL) Club met at the Fort Payne Senior Center to hold their annual awards day. Janice Smith of Crossville was named "Woman of the Year." 

Members from all seven of the county clubs (Crossville, Geraldine, Ider, Joyful Hearts, Lookout Mountain, Portersville, and Tenbroeck) were in attendance. The meeting's guest speaker was DeKalb County Probate Judge Ronnie Osborn. 

In order to be named Woman of the Year, each HCL club nominates one outstanding member to be considered. This year's nominees were Janice Smith of Crossville (winner), Angelia Camp of Geraldine, Katherine Gamble of Ider, Theda Wills of Lookout Mountain, and Jeanette Robinson of Tenbroeck. Joyful Hearts did not submit a nomination this year. Robinson, who passed away before the event, was named "Honorary Woman of the Year." Her family was in attendance and accepted the award on her behalf.

"We are looking forward to another fun-filled, successful year with the HCL," said Carolyn W. Boatner, media coordinator for HCL Club. "Summerfest, our annual celebration, will be coming up in August. You are invited for a day of crafting, entertainment and lunch." 

Anyone who wishes to become a member of the DeKalb County Homemakers and Community Leaders, please contact an individual club or DeKalb County Club President Christine Ashley at (256) 393-3462 or visit their website at dekalbalhcl.com.