The Debbie and Paul Standridge home was destroyed by fire on Sunday morning, January 29, 2023. A heat lamp left on under the carport fell during the night over causing the blaze.

A fire call was dispatched at 6:52 a.m. Sunday morning. Allen’s Engine 1 came on scene at 7:02, Brush 2 Truck 7:05, Tanker 1 at 7:17, and Allen Med 1 Brush was on scene at 7:30. Ada Engine 10 and Rescue 5 arrived on scene at 7:10.

When fire vehicles arrived the house was fully involved. The firefighters began with an exterior attack. The closest fire plug was on East B Street and water was relayed with a tanker. The interior attack started at approximately 7:45. The Standridge’s made it out safely from the fire, with Paul suffering some small burns to his face and hands. He refused treatment at the scene.

The house and all its contents were lost in the fire. This Saturday there will be a benefit potluck lunch for the Standridge family. At 1:00 p.m., in the Allen School cafeteria, the area’s best one-pot cooks will be serving their delicious food to the crowd. There will be options of chili, spaghetti, gumbo, stew and more. Don Brewer from Swamp People will be in attendance and will have some Swamp People memorabilia. After the meal an auction will begin. Items in the auction will include pistols, rifles, knives, ammo, gift certificates, a registered puppy, Striper guided fishing experiences, deserts, and propane; you name it and you might find it at the auction.

The weather has been bad, and everyone is tired of being stuck in the house. This is the perfect opportunity get out, visit with your friends and help your neighbors. See you at the school cafeteria at 1:00 p.m.