The people of Live Oak have lost a true friend and will no doubt feel this loss for quite some time. Al Fortino, 83-years-old, died Tuesday, leaving more than just a spot on the Live Oak City Council. Fortino had been very active in, not only the Chamber of Commerce for many years, serving as President, but also the Live Oak Lions Club.
When the Live Oak City Council met last week, Fortino was in the hospital ,and his seat sat empty, a reminder that he was not there to serve the City as he loved to do. He was elected to the council in 2006 and voted vice mayor in 2007.
Next weeks meeting will be a tough one for his fellow councilmembers, as they meet for the first time since his passing. His big, infectious smile will live on in the memories of his many friends in Live Oak.
