ST Vol 7 No 32

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Back to School!

THE SOUTHERN TORCH / FRIDAY, August 6, 2021 / VOL. 7, NO. 32 / $1.00

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SCHOOL BELLS WILL BE RINGING SOON!

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

DEKALB AND JACKSON COUNTIES, Ala.--School bells will be ringing this week as several school systems will begin their new 2021-2022 year.

Cornerstone Christian Academy, Scottsboro City Schools, and Jackson County will start their new year on Thursday, August 5.

DeKalb County School systems will begin on August 6. Fort Payne City Schools will resume classes on August 10.

Excitement is in the air as teachers prepare to welcome new students into their classrooms.

“Tomorrow I will begin

>See Bells, P6

my 15th year of teaching. I am so thankful that God led me to this calling...I LOVE what I do and look forward to meeting my new kiddos, who by the end of the year, will be MY kiddos!” stated Fyffe teacher Kristi Goggans Underwood. “My prayer is that God’s light will shine through me with everything I say and do and that I can be what my babies need each and every day.”

The USDA has extended a waiver to school districts to continue free lunches throughout the state. All students in DeKalb, Fort Payne City Schools, Scottsboro City Schools, and Jackson County School Systems are eligible to receive a free breakfast and a free lunch each day for the 2021-2022 school year.

As the new school term

begins, educators are closely monitoring the situation of COVID-19.

According to a statement provided to students, parents, and staff of the DeKalb County Schools, DeKalb County Superintendent Wayne Lyles stated that while the rise in the number of cases is concerning, the system is optimistic at this point to start the new school year according to the DeKalb County Schools Reopening Plan of 2021-22.

“I have received communication from the State Superintendent, Dr. Eric Mackey, that local systems should not expect mandates from his office or the Governor’s Office in the near future” stated

HWY 55 TO OPEN IN FP

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

FORT PAYNE, Ala.-- At the Fort Payne City Council meeting, on August 3, Mayor Brian Baine announced that

Hwy 55 Burgers, Shakes and Fries would open a new location in the former DeKalb Tourism Center.

"It's exciting to welcome Hwy 55 to Fort Payne, they are a 50's style diner type restaurant" stated Mayor Baine. "I will be glad to see the construction get started in the coming months."

The former Tourism Center encountered problems with flooding but according to Fort Payne Councilmember John

M. Smith, the new owners will elevate the site before they build. When the elevation is tapered, and with the proper drainage systems, it will aid in diverting the water flow from Airport Road towards Wills Creek.

In other business, the Council: Passed Resolution 2021-26 that amended a previous resolution that granted tax abatements to Plasman. This is a name

change only, with no additional abatements.

Tabled a request for bids for decorative lights.

Discussed the hiring of a local architect firm for the concession building and proposed new soccer fields.

Accepted a land donation by Paul Young Granted approval for lawyers to negotiate the recent settlement of the “Opioid Suit” which refunds first responders across the nation due to the opioid

crisis.

John Dersham gave the Council an update on the activities of the DeKalb County Tourist Association.

Dersham went on to state that despite the covid pandemic last year, Fort Payne steadily had visitors to the area, due to so many outdoor activities nearby.

The next meeting of the Fort Payne Council will be held on August 17, beginning at 12:30 p.m.

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(256)638-6070 YOUR FRIEND, YOUR DRUGSTORE! Visit our website at www.southerntorch.com for daily news updates and pick up your weekly print edition at news stands every Friday.

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FRIDAY — AUGUST 6, 2021

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

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ATTENTION DRIVERS!

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

JACKSON COUNTY, Ala.-- The Jackson County Public Works announced that County Road 58, between County Road 57 and County Road 60, will be closed for cross drain replacement beginning

WWW.BOBBYLEDBETTER.COM (256) 844-2210

Tuesday, August 10.

The closure should last approximately two days, depending on weather conditions and site conditions.

If you have any questions, concerning this matter, please contact the Jackson County Public Works office at (256)259-6037

It is not too late to make plans to attend college this fall! There is still time to apply and register for classes at Northeast Alabama Community College (NACC). Tuition at NACC is less than half the cost of four-year colleges and universities, and most classes at Northeast are guaranteed to transfer to four-year schools.

The cost of one semester’s tuition at most Alabama public four-year colleges and universities averages around $4,500, while students will pay just under $2,000 for tuition (12 hours) at Northeast. NACC students do not have to worry about courses not transferring smoothly to a four-year institution, either.

Through its articulation programs with Alabama’s public four-year colleges, Northeast offers an education gateway to most any career. Under this agreement, four-year colleges in the state are required by state legislation to accept designated courses taken at a two-year college within a major. This

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF LOW TUITION RATES THIS FALL agreement assures a smooth transition in transferring to a public four-year college to complete a degree.

NACC President Dr. David Campbell speaks to the value of a Northeast education.

“NACC courses cost less, whether it is an English, Mathematics, or Psychology course, but they are equal in quality to those offered at four-year colleges in Alabama,” stated NACC President Dr. David Campbell. “Indeed, there are more than forty hours of courses in our core curriculum that automatically transfer to any four-year college in Alabama, whether it is Auburn University, the University of Alabama, Jacksonville State University, Birmingham Southern University, or the University of Alabama in Huntsville - just to name a few. Universities cannot by law refuse to

transfer these courses as long as students make a C or better in the course.”

Students at Northeast have been able to use the college’s core curriculum to pursue most any kind of career that is available. The STARS (Statewide Articulation Reporting System) program guide lists all possible career majors that can be started at Northeast and includes everything from advertising to wildlife sciences.

NACC is well known for providing one of the greatest educational values, offering low tuition and high-quality programs of study. Our programs place students on the pathway to success in any career.

Choosing a career that corresponds with a student’s skills and interests will provide the best chance at achieving career satisfaction. Our College and Career

Planning Center provides both career and transfer advising, ensuring the transfer process is as smooth as possible for students.

College and Career Planning Center Director Sherry Whitten shared the latest example of why students should begin at NACC. "We see the benefits of students having a STARS Guide all the time. For example, this week, a four-year institution told a recent NACC graduate that she needed two additional classes. We were able to show her STARS Guide requirements. We reminded everyone involved that the STARS Guide is a state-wide articulation agreement between our community colleges and the four-year public institutions,” Whitten explained. She continued, “The issue was resolved, and the student immediately received credit. Why would you begin your postsecondary education anywhere else? We are here to help each step of the way while saving you time and money."

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FRIDAY — AUGUST 6, 2021

HTHE SOUTHERN TORCH

3

POLITICS

INSIDE THE STATEHOUSE

By Steve Flowers For over a year I have been touting the fact that the 2022 election year in the Heart of Dixie was going to be the busiest and most monumental in history.

Folks, it looks like it is not going to be as eventful as anticipated. Yes, everything is on the ballot, but the power of incumbency is thwarting the drama. It appears the U.S. Senate race is going to be the marquee event.

Most states have their big election years in the same year as the presidential contest. Not so in Alabama, our carte blanche election year is in between presidential elections in what is referred to nationally as off years.

All our constitutional officers are on the ballot next year as well as all 105 state house seats, 35 state senate seats, all 67

sheriffs, all state school board members, along with all seven of our Congressional seats.

Historically, the biggest race in Alabama is governor. In fact, throughout history the governor’s race year has been the largest turnout year in Alabama. That is probably because it was not until the 1970’s that could a governor succeed themselves.

Therefore, there was an open governor’s race every four years.

The inherent advantage of incumbency has cut down on the every four years gubernatorial circus and theater. This incumbency advantage is playing out to the nines as we head towards next year’s May 24 election day.

All four of our top tier Constitutional offices are held by popular incumbents and all four are running for reelection virtually unopposed. All

of our statewide elected offices are held by Republicans. A Democrat cannot win a statewide race in Alabama. They can get 40% but that appears to be the ultimate threshold.

Therefore, winning the May 24 GOP Primary is tantamount to election.

Governor Kay Ivey is the prohibitive favorite to win a full second term next year. She has done a good job as governor despite the gigantic obstacles of having to fight through a once in a lifetime COVID pandemic, which completely shut down the world’s economy for over 15 months. She did a good job of steadying the ship of state during the crisis.

It was thought and even anticipated that Kay Ivey would run for only one four-year term when she was elected in 2018.

She, herself, probably thought she might only run one time because,

coupled with her serving as governor the last two years of Robert Bentley’s tenure, would give her a six-year reign. That mindset of striving to govern for four-years rather than run for reelection has made her a successful governor.

Kay has rolled up her sleeves and tackled the job and diligently governed. She has gubernatorially addressed many of the problems that have plagued the state and been swept under the rug or kicked down the road for decades.

Addressing the problems of repairing the state’s roads and infrastructure and the prison problems has not been an exciting agenda, but she has been a workhorse governor rather than a show horse governor.

She will coast to reelection. It would be difficult for a candidate to run negative ads against your grandmother. The

only thing that could prevent Kay Ivey from serving another term is if she changes her mind.

She relies a lot on her Chief of Staff, former Mobile/Baldwin Congressman, Jo Bonner. There is speculation that Bonner may accept the position of President of the University of South Alabama. Gov. Ivey would very much miss her “little brother” from Wilcox. However, she has a brilliant and loyal youthful staff that have been with her all four-years. She will probably stay the course and be reelected.

Speaking of youthfulness, our young Lt. Governor, Will Ainsworth, is poised to win reelection to a second four-year term essentially unopposed.

He is waiting in the wings, ready to run for governor.

Attorney General, Steve Marshall, is also

going to coast to reelection with only token or no opposition.

Marshall has tackled his job well and diligently over his first four-year term. He, like Ivey, has strived to delve into his job rather than politics full time. He has staked out a position as being a bona fide conservative Alabama Republican.

Rick Pate has done an excellent job as Alabama Agriculture Commissioner and will deservedly win a second four-year term as the head of this important constitutional office. He is perfectly suited and qualified for this job.

So, folks, it looks like it may be a dull year.

However, don’t fret, we have 67 local sheriff races and all 140 legislative seats all running under new lines.

See you next week.

EVENTS Submit your upcoming events to nicky@southerntorch.com for a chance to be featured in next week's print edition of The Southern Torch!

August 5, 6, 7 Worlds Longest Yard Sale - The World’s Longest Yard Sale will return to northeast Alabama from August 5 through August 8, 2021.

Also known as the “127 Yard Sale,” the event spans almost 700 miles from Gadsden, Ala. through Georgia, Tennessee, Kentucky, and Ohio, before ending in Addison, Mich. The majority of the route follows Highway 127, but the Alabama section is situated along Lookout Mountain Parkway.

More than 1,000 vendors are expected in Alabama alone.

August 6, Alabama Auburn Golf Shoutout - Proceeds provide scholarships for DeKalb County Students. Located at

the Terripan Hills Golf Course. Tee time is at 12 PM and the entry fee os $60 per person and dinner to follow.

Call to sign up (256)845-4624 August 7, Pete the Cat Day - 9am - 12pm, Katherine's Framing at 100 Gault Ave N,, Fort Payne, Alabama 35967. James Dean, author and creator of Pete the Cat and Fort Payne native, will be joining will be joining us to sign books and artwork! Limited Tickets Available! 100 tickets will be available at Katherine’s Gallery and Custom Framing July 19 – August 6 while they last. No purchase necessary.

Katherine’s Gallery and Custom Framing will also be at the event with Pete the Cat books, t-shirts, and other items for sale.

Story time 9:30, 10:30 & 11:30 Coal and Iron Building.

August 7, Jess Goggans Band - The Summer Music Series is a free event on the lawn at the Mentone Inn's Linger Longer Pavilion. Rock & Roll to Reggae! Grab some good eats from the Fontastic Food Truck, bring your beverage of choice and enjoy with friends and family!

Located at Mentone Inn Bed and Breakfast. 7pm - 10pm. www. littleriverartscouncil. org/ music-for-the-people August 7, Family fitness flow - his fitness class will be lead by community enthusiast, Marquita Coley-Hall. She will be focusing on an interactive, beginner

JACKSON BLAZE • 98-3 WILD COUNTRY • 101-7 THE TORCH

Staff:

Eloise Smith - General Manager Marla Jones - Managing Editor/Sports Brian Anderson - Radio Operations Manager Nick Vizzinia - Graphic Design Amy Thrash - Account Executive Jenna Sue Payne - Account Executive Patti Browder - Radio Traffic Teresa Smith - Radio Traffic Lindsey Jones - Accounting Marshall Stiefel - Fleet & Distrubition

Southern Torch (USPS Periodicals #19790) is published each Friday by Southern Torch, Inc. 225 Gault Ave. N. Fort Payne AL.POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Southern Torch, P.O. Box 614, Rainsville, AL. 35986.

(256)638-4040 • (256)259-2341

level, fun for all flow that you can incorporate in your daily routine. All ages are welcome. There will be local community health and wellness vendors on site after the class providing additional information.

Children under 4 are free. For families with more than 4 members, please choose the “families with 4 more ticket” and indicate how many will be attending. Location MoragneHorseshoe Pavilion 100 Moragne Ave Gadsden, AL 35901 3:00 PM – 3:45 PM CDT August 8th, Five Points Baptist Church Singing - Five Points Baptist Church at 1697 County Rd 782, Ider, AL will be having a singing on August 8th at 10:30cst featuring the group Bama Blu Grace. Everyone Welcome.

September 5, Three Arts - The Scottsboro Three Arts Club presents the 47th Annual Art Sunday September 5 2021 in King Caldwell Park!

Make plans to attend this legendary event! If you would like to be a Art Craft or Food Vendor check out the website at www. scottsboro3artsclub.

com September 27, October 2 Dekalb

County VFW Agricultural Fair - Dekalb County VFW Agricultural Fair meta Dekalb County Fairgrounds, Fort

Payne , AL. Come by for a night of fun.

There will be a lot of rides, games, and snacks at the stalls around the fairgrounds. Stop by to visit the animals too!

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4

FRIDAY — AUGUST 6, 2021

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

LEGALS

LAW ENFORCEMENT IN DEKALB

LEGALS

LEGALS

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA. DOMESTIC RELATIONS DIVISION

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA

CASE NO.: DR-2021-900014

CASE NO.: 2021-252

IN RE: THE MARRIAGE OF: JACEY LOFTON TANT, PLANTIFF,

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF EVELYN DOROTHY STOGSDILL, Deceased

v.

EXECUTOR'S NOTICE TO FILE CLAIMS

CHARLES TANT DEFENDANT ORDER OF PUBLICATION To Charles Tant, Defendant in the above-styled case, you must answer the Complaint for Divorce and other relief filed by Jacey Lofton Tant by September 23, 2021 or thereafter a judgement of default may be rendered against you in DR-2021-900014. Circuit Court of DeKalb County, Alabama.

This the 20 day of July, 2021.

Said notice to be published July 23, 30, August 6, & 13.

LEGALS STATE OF ALABAMA IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY CASE # 2021-240 IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF BILLIE RUTH SLATON, deceased.

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: Letters Testamentary having been granted on the Last Will and Testament of the decedent to M.L. UNDERWOOD, the Personal Representative of the deceased, on the 1st day of June 2021, by the Honorable RONNIE OSBORNE, Judge of the Probate Court of Dekalb County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against such estate are required to file an itemized and verified statement of such claim in the office of such Judge of Probate within six (6) months from the above date or the same will be barred and payment prohibited.

Said notice to be published July 23, 30 & August 6.

Letters Testamentary on the Estate of Evelyn Dorothy Stogsdill, Deceased, having been granted to the undersigned on the 28 day of July 2021, by the Honorable Ronnie Osborn, Judge of Probate of said County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law, or the same will be barred.

Said notice to be published July 30, August 6 & 13.

FORT PAYNE, Ala. During the month of July, the DeKalb County Sheriff ’s Office, Narcotics and Criminal Interdiction Unit, K-9 Units, Fort Payne Police Department, Sylvania Police Department, Collinsville Police Department, Fyffe Police Department, Valley Head Police Department, Mentone Police Department, Probation Officers and Crossville Police Department made 66 drug-related arrests.

We also took 196 grams of methamphetamine, 72 grams of marijuana, 86 grams of synthetic marijuana, and 55 pills off the streets in our county.

On Thursday, July 1st, DeKalb County

Ider Discount Drugs

@

Narcotics Agents went to a residence on County Road 353 in Geraldine to execute a warrant for Nicholas Dewayne Childress (38 of Albertville). When Agents arrived, they observed Childress and a female leaving through the back door. Childress was found to be in possession of methamphetamine.

Childress was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

On the same day, DeKalb County Deputies conducted a traffic stop on Hwy 75 in Rainsville.

During the stop, Deputies suspected the driver was impaired. After a field sobriety test and a vehicle search, Mark Anthony Kenimer (42 of Trenton, GA) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance DUI (controlled Substance).

Deputies found 15 liquid bottles of Kratom in the vehicle as well.

Narcotics Agents were called in to assist.

On Wednesday, July 7th, DeKalb County Narcotics Agents went to a residence on McFall Street in Rainsville to serve a warrant on Rocky Lane Bell (54 of Rainsville). While at the residence, Agents found Bell to be in possession of methamphetamine, marijuana, and drug

paraphernalia. Bell was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Unlawful Distribution of Controlled Substance (x4).

Again, on Wednesday, DeKalb County Deputies responded to a call of a subject possibly passed out behind the steering wheel of a vehicle on County Road 139 near Whiton. When Deputies arrived, they managed to wake the subject up and asked him to exit the vehicle. When he got out of the vehicle, methamphetamine was found. William Hunter Gilbert (28 of Boaz) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

On Thursday, July 8th, DeKalb County Deputies attempted to stop a subject on a motorcycle on County Road 10, in the Aroney area. The driver of the motorcycle accelerated and a short chase was initiated. After the driver of the motorcycle stopped, he was found to be in possession of methamphetamine and marijuana. Jonathan Joe Young (32 of Crossville) was charged with Attempt to Elude Police, Reckless Endangerment, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 1st, Unlawful

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, DUI (controlled substance) and Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance.

Narcotics Agents were called in to assist.

On Friday, July 9th, Fyffe Police Department responded to a call of a subject in a scooter sitting in someone’s yard on Davis Street in Shiloh.

When Officers made contact with the subject, they found him to be in possession of methamphetamine, controlled prescription medication and drug paraphernalia. Charles Eddy Miller (56 of Rainsville) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance (x6), Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd, Public Intoxication and Illegal Possession of Prescription Drugs On Saturday, July 10th, DeKalb County Deputies conducted a traffic stop on Gault Avenue North in Fort Payne. During the stop ½ lb. of synthetic marijuana and ½ ounce of methamphetamine was found. Cody Dale Henegar (57 of Fort Payne) was charged with Trafficking in any Illegal Drug, Unlawful Distribution of Controlled Substances, and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Narcotics Agents were called in to assist.

On Sunday, July 11th,

Murdock officiating.

Burial will be in New Prospect Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5 until 8pm Wednesday at the funeral home.

Charlotte Landers 65 of Fyffe passed away Wednesday July 28, 2021. Visitation- Saturday July 31, 2021 from 2pm till 6pm at W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel.

Teddy Maurel Maddox - 66 of Dawson, passed away Wednesday, July 28, 2021. Funeral services will be held at 3pm on Saturday, July 31, 2021 from W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with burial to follow.

Jerry Lee Miller I - 55 of Henagar, passed away Wednesday, July 28, 2021. Funeral services will be held at 3pm on Friday, July 30, 2021 from W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with burial to follow in Pleasant View Cemetery.

Frankie Joe Swearengin, Sr. - 57 of Albertville, passed away Thursday, July 29, 2021.

Cremation services provided by W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel.

Harold Ray Wright

- 90, of Elora, Tennessee passed away on Friday, July 30, 2021.Funeral services are set for 11am, August 4, 2021 from the Graveside with Bro. Darrell Gray officiating.

Burial will be in Rice Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5 until 8pm Tuesday at the funeral home.

Jessie David Brooks - 77, of Centre passed away on Monday, August 2, 2021. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, August 5, 2021 at 11am from the W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with Bro. Tim Griner, Bro. Chad Brown and Ronnie Bevel officiating. Burial will be in Kirk Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends from 5 until 8pm Wednesday at the funeral home.

Randall Dewayne “Rooster” Dalton - 69, of Geraldine passed away on Monday, August 2, 2021. Funeral services are set for 10am Wednesday, August 4, 2021 from the graveside at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in Grove Oak with Bro. Terry Williams officiating.

The family receive friends from 5 until 8pm Tuesday.

OBITUARIES Wilson Aubrey Jerome Rhodes - 81, of Fort Payne, passed away Thursday, July 29, 2021.

Graveside services will be 2 p.m. Saturday at Mt. Olive Cemetery in Cloudland, GA. Elizabeth (Betty) Owen Blake - 84, of Jamestown, NC, passed on July 30, 2021. A grave side service will be held at 11:00am, Tuesday August 3rd.

Norma Jean Hammond - , a longtime resident of Gadsden, Alabama departed this life on July 30. Services will be decided by her family at a later time.

Burt Wynona Jo Morgan - 57, of Fort Payne, Alabama passed away on Tuesday, July 27, 2021. Funeral: Saturday, July 31, 2021.

Coach Jerry Brown - 59, of Hammondville, Alabama, passed away on Wednesday, July 28.

Funeral: Sunday, August 1, 2021.

Billy Rayford Baty 67, of Mentone, Alabama, passed away on

Thursday, July 29, 2021.

William Earl Hinkelmann - 73, of Valley Head, Alabama passed away on Saturday, July 31.

Funeral: August 1.

Charlean Frazier Smith - 85, of Mentone, Alabama, passed away on Saturday, July 31.

Funeral: Tuesday, August 3, 2021.

Coach Jim Keith 74, of Fort Payne, Alabama, went home to heaven on Saturday, July 31. There will be no services at this time.

Mark Lionel Burt - 53, of Fort Payne, Alabama, passed away on Saturday, July 31.

Funeral: Thursday, August 5, 2021.

Cornerstone William Dewayne Tinker - 54 of Pisgah died Wednesday, July 28 at his residence. Funeral services are Friday at 2 pm.

Marcia Elizabeth Brannon Siniard - 83 of Ider died Friday, July 30 at Highland's Medical Center. Funeral services are Tuesday at 11:00 AM. Jonah Deloy Cornett - 78, passed Friday, July

30 at Erlanger Medical Center. A Celebration of Life will be planned in a few weeks.

Billy Wayne Brown - 85 of Rossville, GA died Saturday, July 31 at his residence. Graveside services are Monday at 11:30 AM. Iva Lee White McDaniel - 89 of Rosalie passed away Monday, August 2. Graveside service will be conducted Wednesday, August 4, 2021, at 10:00AM. Sammy Lebron Lacey - 57 of Valley Head died Tuesday, August 3 at Gadsden Riverview Medical Center. Funeral services are Friday at 2 PM.

Rainsville

Survivors Wife: Jane Whaley Barnes of Fort Payne, Alabama Daughter: Karen (Steve) Henry of Fort Payne, Alabama Grandchild: Lance (Heather) Henry of Fort Payne, Alabama Great-Grandchild: Mazie Henry of Fort Payne, Alabama 1 Special Son: Landon Crowe of Fort Payne, Alabama Several Nieces and Nephews Preceded in Death Parents: Lonnie and Launa Barnes Brother: Max Barnes In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Broadway Baptist Church or the charity of your choice.

Debra Carol Haynes - 61 of Rainsville, AL passed away on Friday, July 30, 2021. Memorial services will be held Sunday, August 1, 2021 at 4:00 pm.z

W.T. Wilson Mr. Rex Eugene Barnes - 78 of Fort Payne, Alabama passed away on Thursday, July 29, 2021. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, August 8, 2021 at 2:30PM at Broadway Baptist Church with Dr. Kevin McCreless officiating. An open reception will follow with Rainsville Funeral Home, Inc. announcing, www. rainsvillefuneralhome. com.

William Jerry Morris - 81 of Grove Oak passed away at his home on July 27, 2021. Cremation services provided by W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel Mary Imogene Godwin - 93, of Grove Oak passed away on Tuesday, July 27, 2021.

Funeral services are set for 1pm Thursday, July 29, 2021 from the W. T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with Bros. Kevin Barksdale and Ronny

Burt Funeral H omes

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FRIDAY — AUGUST 6, 2021

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

5

B COUNTY STAYED BUSY DURING MONTH OF JULY DeKalb County Deputies attempted to conduct a traffic stop on County Road 169 near Shiloh Crossroads. When Deputies tried to stop the vehicle, the driver accelerated and led them on a short pursuit. Upon stopping the vehicle, it was found that the driver had attempted to destroy evidence, also finding marijuana, drug paraphernalia, and controlled pills in the vehicle. Rickey Lionel Rogers (38 of Flat Rock) was charged with an Attempt to Elude Police, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Tampering with Physical Evidence, and 14 Outstanding Warrants. Narcotics Agents were called in to assist.

Also on Sunday, July 11th, DeKalb County Deputies conducted a traffic stop on 9th Street in Fort Payne finding the driver to be in possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

David Lee Templeton (25 of Ider) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substances and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Narcotics Agents were called in to assist.

On Monday, July 12th, DeKalb County Deputies conducted a traffic stop on County Road 137 in Valley Head

finding Derek Austin Rothell (32 of Scottsboro) to be in possession of marijuana. Also in the vehicle was Bryan Lynn Phillips (29 of Mentone) who was in possession of methamphetamine.

Rothell was charged with Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 1st and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Phillips was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Narcotics Agents were called in to assist.

On Wednesday, July 14th, Agents with the DeKalb County Narcotics and Criminal Interdiction Unit and the DeKalb County K-9 Unit assisted a business in Fort Payne upon their request.

While there, a K-9 alerted a vehicle and after further investigating, methamphetamine, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia were found. David Seth Atkins (23 of Section) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd.

On Thursday, July 15th, Valley Head Police Department and Mentone Police Department conducted a traffic stop on Hwy 117 in Mentone. During the stop, Christopher Lee Richardson (34 of Fort Payne) was found to be

in possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

Richardson was charged with Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance.

Narcotics Agents were called in to assist.

Also on Thursday, July 15th, DeKalb County Deputies conducted a traffic stop on County Road 26 and County Road 17 in the Rodentown area finding the driver to be in possession of methamphetamine, suboxone, and marijuana.

Edker Shane Jones (46 of Boaz) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance (x2), Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 1st, and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Narcotics Agents were called in to assist.

On Monday, July 19th, after several complaints of someone on a moped selling drugs in Fort Payne around the 5 points area, DeKalb County Deputies spotted Chris Allen Ballenger (53 of Scottsboro) and followed him to a residence on Fruit Farm Road in Fort Payne.

When Deputies arrived, they found methamphetamine, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia in the residence. Ballenger was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Ronald Dewayne Jones (41 of Fort Payne) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Chrystal Marie Coots (44 of Valley Head) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

James Kenny Henderson (41 of Henagar) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Christy Michelle Haynes (42 of Fort Payne) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

James Cecil Bailey (33 of Fort Payne was charged with Loitering in a Drug House and 1 Outstanding Warrant. Narcotics Agents were called in to assist.

Also on Monday, July 19th, DeKalb County Deputies conducted a traffic stop on County Road 169 in the Shiloh Community finding the occupants of the vehicle to be in possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

Derek Allen Register (31 of Higdon) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Summer Marie Moore (31 of Higdon) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

and Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance.

Narcotics Agents were called in to assist.

On Tuesday, July 20th, DeKalb County Deputies conducted a traffic stop on Al Hwy 117 in Mentone finding the driver to be in possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

James Lamar Dill (38 of Meridianville) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Narcotics Agents were called in to assist.

On Wednesday, July 21st, Probation Officers made an in-home visit at a residence on 2nd Street in Sylvania, finding Jeffery Elbert Townsel (58 of Sylvania) to be in possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

Townsel was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Narcotics Agents were called in to assist.

On Sunday, July 25th, Crossville Police Offices conducted a traffic stop on County Road 26 in Rodentown, finding the driver to be in possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. Jeff Allen McLain (55 of Blountsville) was charged

with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Narcotics Agents were called in to assist.

On Monday, July 26th, DeKalb Narcotics Agents, along with Mentone Police Department, DeKalb County Sheriff ’s Deputies, and Valley Head Police Department executed a search warrant at a residence on East River Road in Mentone. During a search, methamphetamine, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia were found. Donald Aflred Brown, Jr (54 of Mentone) was charged with Unlawful Distribution of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden said of the incident: “I always think, I couldn’t be any prouder of our Law Enforcement than I am now, but I am proved wrong every time. These guys go above and beyond, working day and night to keep your families safe, they are definitely a force to be reckoned with.”

“God Bless!”

Concluded Sheriff Welden.

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FRIDAY — AUGUST 6, 2021

THE SOUTHERN TORCHT

RAINSVILLE TO APPLY FOR SEWER GRANTS

By Marla Jones Managing Editor

marla@southerntorch.com

RAINSVILLE, ALA.-- (FULL VIDEO ON SOUTHERN TORCH FACEBOOK ) The Rainsville City Council held their regularly scheduled meeting on August 2.

A public hearing was held regarding grant applications for the Rainsville Wastewater Treatment

Plant.

The City of Rainsville is eligible to apply for a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), one of the longest running programs of the US Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Proceeds from CDBG funds can be used for affordable housing, anti-poverty programs and infrastructure development.

The grant will fund the rehab of sewer lines and repair of manholes, to prevent infiltration. The Council voted to start the application process, in order to obtain the grant.

City Engineer Sam Phillips, addressed the Council regarding the negotiated price by Wiregrass Construction for paving of Malcolm, Tucker, Santileon and Rabbit Run. Through negotiations, the price

was reduced by $11,993.84. This reduction allowed the city to add Hicks Street to their current paving projects. Hicks Street has 440’ of paving and will cost the City $9,834.00 to pave.

The council accepted the negotiated price by Wiregrass Construction in the amount of $277.616.04.

In other business: • Resolution

08-02-2021 was passed allowing the surplus of laptops at the Rainsville City Library • A bid by Brown Construction to replace pipe on Oak, Kain and Kirk in the amount of $6,000 was approved.

• Accepted the resignation of Tommy Knopps from the Public Work Department.

Knopps has worked for

the City of Rainsville for 37 years.

• Posted a mechanics position for the Public Works Department. The City will accept applications until August 10 at 4 p.m.

The next meeting of the Rainsville City Council will be held on August 16, with a work session at 4:00 and regular session beginning at 4:30.

COMMUNITY

GIGAWATTS GIVE BACK

Fort Payne Robotics Instructor, Jamie McClung and four members of the Gigawatts team hosted a class recently at the DeKalb County Library to teach programming skills.

The goal of the team is to share success, confidence skills, and to give back to the community.

There were ten participants in the recent class, from grades 2-5.

The team will host another class August 9-10 from 4:00 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Rainsville Library. Contact the library at (256) 638- 3311 to register.

DRMC CHANGES VISITOR POLICY

DeKalb Regional Medical Center (Fort Payne) issued the following statement regarding visitors: With the increase in positive cases locally, we continue to take the necessary steps to help ensure the safety of patients, employees and visitors. Effective Wednesday, August 4, no visitors will be allowed in the hospital, with limited exceptions. Limited exceptions will be made for the areas of Obstetrics, Pediatrics, end-of-life situations or for patients with mental or physical limitations. We continue to require universal masking and encourage the community to get vaccinated.

Bells

FROM PAGE 1 Superintendent Lyles. “However, we will certainly be receptive if and when they feel there is a need for them to provide further guidelines to protect from COVID-19.”

“During the 2021-2022 school year, Fort Payne City School System will offer face-to-face traditional instruction for all students K-12.

A fully online curriculum will be offered [to grades] 9-12” stated Fort Payne City Schools Superintendent, Brian L. Jett.

“COVID-19 vaccines are not required for students and staff members.

Additionally, at this time, the wearing of a face mask is optional for students and staff members.”

“As we plan to move into the new school year, Scottsboro City Schools is committed to continuing to move toward a more traditional school year” stated Interim Superintendent for Scottsboro City Schools, Amy Childress. “While school safety remains the top

priority for our students, faculties, and staff, our goal is to ensure the delivery of highquality instruction in a safe and clean learning environment.”

Jackson County School System (JCS) posted on their website a 2021 Parent’s Guide for Returning to School which can be found at www.jacksonk12. org.

“Jackson County School System (JCS) is making every effort to ensure a successful school year. We are eager to return to normal operations, but also understand COVID-19 remains a serious concern.”

The school systems will continue to use the same sanitizing practices that were used successfully last year to protect the students and staff.

In accordance with January 29, 2021, Center for Disease Control (CDC) order, masks are required on school buses for drivers and passengers. At press time, both Jackson and DeKalb County School Systems informed that they will follow this ruling.

Currently, individuals age 12 and above are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. DeKalb and Fort Payne City School systems will be offering students, staff, and parents voluntary vaccination opportunities.

“I am pleased to announce that the Fort Payne City Schools in compliance with the Alabama Department of Public Health will host a vaccine clinic at Fort Payne High School for students (ages 12 and older) to receive the COVID-10 Pfizer vaccine prior to the beginning of the upcoming school year” stated Fort Payne City School Superintendent Brian Jett.

“Additionally, the clinic is welcoming parents, guardians, and staff who wish to receive the Modera vaccine.”

The first dose will be administered Friday, August 6.

The clinic is set for 12:00 p.m. through 2:00 p.m.

The DeKalb County School System plans to offer voluntary vaccination opportunities to students, parents, and staff in the coming weeks.

FRIDAY — AUGUST 6, 2021

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

7

SPORTS

MEDIA DAYS

On Friday, teams from across Dekalb and Jackson gathered for Media Days. The following schools were represented. Each team brought their captains and informed the media of their plans for the 2021 football season.

Collinsville Panthers Coach Ernie Willingham

Crossville Lions Coach Josh Taylor

Fyffe Red Devils Coach Paul Benefield

Fort Payne Wildcats Coach Chris Elmore

Geraldine Bulldogs Coach Michael Davis

Ider Hornets Coach Chad Grant

North Jackson Chiefs Coach Joe Hollis

North Sand Mountain Bison Coach Keith Kirby

Pisgah Eagles Coach Luke Pruitt

Plainview Bears Coach Nick Ledbetter

Scottsboro Wildcats Coach Chris Bell

Section Lions Coach Chris Hammon

Sylvania Rams Coach Tyler Vann

Valley Head Tigers Coach Heath Vincent

Woodville Panthers Coach Matt Sanders

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

QUAD CITY, ILLINOIS -- Last week, Max Plemmons, a 12-year old from Plainview, and Wynston Keith, a 13-year old from Henagar, traveled to Illinois to represent the Sylvania Fishing Team in The Bass Federation Junior World Finals.

The pair finished the tournament with a 1st place finish in the Southern Division of The Bass Federation Junior World Finals for both days and 8th overall for the tournament.

The Southern Division represented seven states and over forty boats were in the overall

GET YOUR HOOK WET!

tournament.

The pair who only met at the first of the season, due to attending different schools, has amazed many with their talent. After only six tournaments together, the dynamic duo received second place in the State of Alabama Anglers of the Year competition.

Plemmons and Keith were one of two teams from Alabama, selected to participate in The Bass Federation Junior World Finals.

To qualify, the federation took the best three scores out of six tournaments.

Both boys say their love of fishing started while they

were just toddlers.

When asked what advice they would give to people considering the sport of fishing, both said to never give up.

“Just catch the fish!!” stated Wynn.

“Get your hook wet,” added Plemmons.

The pair said they won the tournament by using Nedrigs, Shakey Head, and Berkley worm tackle.

Keith, an eighth-grader, plays baseball and basketball, along with being on the fishing team. He likes to go fishing with his dad, in his free time.

Plemmons plays football but wants to mainly concentrate on being the best

fisherman around.

He fishes with his dad, Jeremy Plemmons, who also is the boat captain for the team, and his grandfather, Wayne Plemmons.

“This was my dream,'' Wayne Plemmons stated.

You can tell how proud he is of his grandson just by talking to him.

The pair will not have long to celebrate their win.

This Saturday, the team will start their new season at Lake Weiss.

Both boys wanted to thank Stan Blevins and Jim Sparrow of the local Bass Federation for all their help and encouragement.

8

FRIDAY — AUGUST 6, 2021

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

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