ST Vol 8 No 3

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THE SOUTHERN TORCH / FRIDAY, January 21, 2022 / VOL. 8, NO. 3 / $1.00

Food City to Possibly Locate in FP

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

The Fort Payne City Council held an Executive Meeting immediately

following Tuesday’s meeting.

After the meeting, the Fort Payne City Council set a Public Hearing on February 15, 2022, to accept comments on the City entering into a

Memorandum of Understanding with Marathon Realty Group, Inc. to bring a Food City grocery store to Fort Payne.

Food City is an American supermarket

chain with stores located in Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia. It is owned by K-VA-T Food Stores, Inc., a privately held family and employee-owned corporation

headquartered in Abingdon, Virginia.

They presently have 132 locations and employ 16,000 people.

>See FOOD, P3

Council Updated FP Council to on City Projects Pause New Complex

James Patton of Ladd Environmental updated the Rainsville City Council on City projects.

The Sewer line across from Plainview School is completed and all tests are completed. The marla@southerntorch.com Force-Main Line on Church Avenue is in place. A tap will be RAINSVILLE, Ala.-- The installed this week on the Rainsville City Council held its pressure line. If anyone wanted regular meeting on Monday, to tap onto the line, a pump is January 17. required. The design for the bar James Patton with Ladd Engineering updated the Council screen at the Waste Water on three projects, which include Treatment is being completed. A the gravity sewer line, the force main line, and the bar screen at the Waste Water Treatment Plant.

By Marla Jones Managing Editor

>See PROJECTS, P3

Site for new Sports Complex In Fort Payne

proposal would include turf installation of six (6) Little League Fields and the two (2) existing marla@southerntorch.com soccer fields at the complex.

Russell stated that if agreed FORT PAYNE, Ala.-- (Full video upon, his company would need a on Southern Torch Facebook) The month to get material in place and Fort Payne City Council held their would have an expected start regular meeting, on Tuesday, date of April. Work would be January 18. completed in three phases, with Russ Russell, representing each phase having a 90-120 day Warner Athletic Construction, offered Mayor Brian Baine and Council a proposal to refurbish the existing Sports Complex. The

By Marla Jones Managing Editor

>See COMPLEX P6

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2 - Friday - January 21, 2022

Southern Torch

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NACC and the Alabama Ballet to Present Blue Suede Shoes

Special to Southern Torch

RAINSVILLE – Northeast Alabama Community College is proud to be hosting the performance of Blue Suede Shoes by the world-renowned Alabama Ballet on Saturday, February 12th at 7 p.m. at the Tom Bevill Lyceum.

This will be the 15th year the Alabama Ballet will be performing at Northeast. “We always enjoy bringing the Alabama Ballet back to our area,” stated NACC President Dr. David Campbell. “The Alabama Ballet is a highly accomplished and nationally recognized company and in addition to their skills and talents in dance, they will provide a spectacular show with their costumes, stage lighting and sound.”

Dennis Nahat’s

Blue Suede Shoes, a full-length ballet danced to 36 master recordings of Elvis Presley songs, combines classical dance with classic rock. The rock-and-roll ballet, with a good helping of jazz, follows three friends over almost twenty years,

starting with high school in the 1950s (when they are first seen wearing their blue suede shoes).

The scene evolves to the Hot Dog Drive-in, through graduation, into army life, then lonely streets and a disco concluding with a gold record finale.

We meet Long Tall Sally and the Big Boss Man along the way, as the three young men roll through an age of innocence, the social changes of the 1960s, and into disco of the 1970s. The 90-minute ballet has 16 sets and 280 costumes, all designed by Bob

Mackie.

NACC college officials worked with the Alabama Ballet to bring you this performance during Valentine’s Day weekend. It will be a perfect evening to celebrate the holiday.

We urge you to purchase your tickets

early. Tickets are on sale now and are $10.00 per person.

Tickets are available for purchase online at https://www.showclix. com/event/alabamaballet-blue-suedeshoes. Tickets may also be purchased with a credit card, by calling Heather Rice at 256.638.4418 ext. 2301 or Rachael Graham at 256.638.4418 ext.2391.

You can also purchase tickets on campus in Room 145 in the Pendley Administration Building. For more information about Northeast Alabama Community College, visit nacc.edu or download the OneACCS app in the Apple Store or Google Play Store. Follow NACC on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn to keep up with the latest announcements, current events, and more.

Snodgrass Bridge Winter Weather Rehab Begins for the Weekend

Special to Southern Torch

Expect traffic delays due to lane reduction, stoppages HUNTSVILLE — The Alabama Department of Transportation advises motorists that the Capt.

John Snodgrass Bridge on Alabama 117 over the Tennessee River near Stevenson in Jackson County will undergo a major rehabilitation project beginning this week.

The $6.3 million project with contractor Cekra, Inc., is anticipated to take about two years and will include replacement of some structural steel, concrete repairs, and painting to extend the lifespan of the truss bridge constructed in 1958.

Beginning as early as Wednesday, Jan. 19, the two-lane bridge will be reduced to a single lane and traffic will be controlled by signals, alternating between northbound and southbound traffic.

This lane closure will be necessary for the safety of the traveling public and workers.

Please expect some delays.

At certain times during the project, traffic in both directions will be intermittently stopped for safety during overhead work. Efforts will be made to

minimize the length and impact of these stoppages, though longer stoppages may be possible should unforeseen circumstances arise.

ALDOT will endeavor to notify the public in advance of any activity requiring traffic stoppages.

Motorists are encouraged to follow the Captain John Snodgrass Bridge Rehab Project page on Facebook or check algotraffic.com or download the ALGO Traffic app for updates.

Dynamic message boards and highway advisory radios will be implemented at key locations to alertmotorists approaching the bridge of possible delays.

Another round of winter weather is predicted for Northeast Alabama Photo Courtesy of Dana Greeson

By Marla Jones Managing Editor

marla@southerntorch.com

DEKALB AND JACKSON COUNTIES, Ala.-- The National Weather Service has advised that Northeast Alabama could face several rounds of winter weather this week. The system could produce some of the coldest air that we

have experienced this winter.

The first cold front, bringing rain, could arrive as early as Wednesday and last well into Thursday as it makes its way across Alabama. Cold air coming in behind the front, could possibly transition briefly into freezing rain.

On Friday, another storm system has the

potential to bring accumulating snow, according to the weather service.

Precipitation could fall as snow throughout Northeast Alabama throughout the day on Friday.

While it is too soon to predict which areas will receive snow, colder weather is in store for Northeast Alabama this weekend.

• • •

• • •

Southern Torch

Gigawatts Partners Food with DCSO

Friday - January 21, 2022 - 3

FROM PAGE 1

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

Special to the Southern Torch FORT PAYNE, ALA.--Some might be wondering what a partnership between a robotics team and local law enforcement looks like. In a new endeavor for the Fort Payne High School Gigawatts team, they have taken on a challenge presented by the DeKalb County Sheriff Firing Range.

Ken Thomas, Shooting Range Manager, had an idea for free moving targets that would allow marksmen to practice

their skills on unpredictable targets.

After a couple of meetings, the team went to work designing a robot that could carry targets a hundred yards away and provide an enhanced element to target practice.

This past Thursday the robot was put to the test. The test was a great success and will now lead to the production of a fully capable final product.

Office Cagle said “that was harder than anything I had to do in sniper training”, while also never missing the target.

Jamie McClung, coach of the Gigawatts, was excited

for this opportunity, “As a teacher, this is an amazing opportunity.

The team members are developing real-life entrepreneur skills while also expanding on their technical skills.

We are extremely grateful to Ken Thomas, Jim Phillips, and Sheriff Nick Welden for coming to us with this opportunity.”

The Gigawatts are now preparing for their 2022 FIRST Robotics competitions. Fort Payne City Schools now has competitive robotics teams from 5th grade and up and offer robotics and computers science at each school in the system K-12.

While it is unclear what the proposed store will offer in Fort Payne, several locations have Starbucks, a Food City Pharmacy, and a Food City Gas Station.

Food City currently has three locations within a 30-mile radius of Fort Payne. Those stores are located in Albertville, Trenton, and LaFayette, Georgia.

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These cowgirls enjoyed the Bull Bash!

Photo by Frances Suttles

Projects FROM PAGE 1

bar screen is a mechanical filter that is used to remove large objects, such as plastic, from wastewater. The bid process for the job will be sometime in April.

Rainsville Police Chief, Michael Edmondson advised the Council that two trainees had decided to resign while at the Police Academy. He asked that the Council advertise the two positions within the Rainsville Police Department, until January 24, 2022.

Councilmember Brandon Freeman stated that the Bull Bash that was held at the Northeast Alabama Agribusiness Center, this weekend, was possibly the biggest

Preparing for Performance Cast members Charles Mauney, Jr., Adam Blevins, Amanda Taylor, and Bryson Taylor are working hard to prepare for the Children’s Advocacy Center’s annual Dinner Theatre.

The Children’s Advocacy Center’s featured play for this year, Decoration Day, is a special 20th anniversary edition.

This was the first play written by Eddie McPherson especially for the CAC’s Dinner Theatre fundraiser.

Audiences loved the original play and are sure to love the revised version.

The 28th annual event, recently re-named as the Eddie McPherson Memorial Dinner Theatre, is coming up February

event ever held at the venue. Freeman said that record crowds showed up and the event on Saturday was a sellout.

In other business, the Council approved the following: • $1000.00 Sponsorship/Children’s Advocacy Center • Purchase Computer for City Hall • Purchase (100) Garbage Cans from Toter • Accept the resignations of Caleb McSpadden and Dylan Haney from the Rainsville Police Department • Hire consultants Bishop, Carver, Johnson & Kent and empower Mayor Lingerfelt to sign the necessary paperwork The next meeting of the Rainsville City Council will be on February 7, 2022.

10, 11, 12, 14, 17, 18, and 19 at Fort Payne First United Methodist Church’s Christian Life Center located at 206 Grand Avenue, NW in Fort Payne. Doors open at 6:05 p.m., dinner is served at 6:30 p.m., and the play begins at 7:30 p.m.

Contact the CAC at 256-997-9700 to reserve your tickets!

Collinsville Drugs

(256)659-2138

“Caring for you like family”

(256) 524-2981 588 South Valley Ave P.O. Box 498 Collinsville, AL 35961

Brandon Boswell, PharmD Pharmacist/Owner

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!

January 22, DeKalb County Democrat Club MLK Day Celebration - DeKalb County Democrat Club Headquarters, 205 N Gault Ave, Fort Payne, will be open from 10:00am until Noon for postcard writing to our representatives. We will provide the postcards, stamps and ideas for the script.

Write with us or pick up cards to write at home.The focus of the postcard writing campaign to push Voting Rights.

January 22, American Legion Post 89 - American Legion Post 89 of Fort Payne, Alabama, cordially invites you to join American Legion Post 89, veterans, patrons, pastors, and public, to

commemorate the selfless sacrafice of Four Immortal Chaplins 79 years ago.

Sunday, February 6, 2022 at 2:00 PM Hosted by the City of Fort Payne.

Fort Payne City Auditorium 100 Alabama Ave. N.W. Fort Payne, AL 35967.

For further information comtact Commander Donald Donaghy, Jr. (256)717-3350 / ctr2dbd@aol.com January 22, Gadsden Winter Sing 2022 - Gadsden Winter Sing 2022 happening at The Church at Wills Creek, 2730 Wills Creek Rd, Gadsden, AL 35904, Gadsden, United States on Sat Jan 22 2022 at 06:00 pm

January 29, Scottsboro Winterfest - Saturday January 29th. Entertainment Line Up - Tommy SaxLegend 1pm-3pm.

Jared Brasher 3pm-5pm. State Route 71 5pm-7pm.

February 11, Canyon Concert: Winter Jazz Dinner Show - Featuring TAD of Jazz and special guest Aubrey Itson.

Doors Open at 6 P.M. Show begins at 7 P.M. Tickets $50 in advance! Limited seating Reservations must by made by February 4th – Make reservations early! *No refunds or exchange* NO EXCEPTIONS! February 19, Miss North Alabama Presented by Ider High School PTO.

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 Reace Osborn - Account Executive Jenna Sue Payne - Account Executive Patti Browder - Radio Traffic Lindsey Jones - Accounting Marshall Stiefel - Fleet & Distribution Tanner Pridmore - Radio & Video Candice Wells - Video & Photography

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.

Contestants ages 0 to Pre-K and Pre-K to 18 (in school) welcome.

No school restrictions.

Attire is formal. Entry fee is $35 for each additional sibling. An optional rehearsal will be held TBD. Admission will be $3 for students and $5 for adults. Photogenic $10 per entry. Forms and fees should be submitted no later than February 12, 2022!

May 7, The Sharps - For more than three decades, The Sharps have been an Alabama-based quartet dedicated to the male, four-part harmony that so many love and enjoy. In person and on recordings, you’ll hear songs that are centered around each Christian’s ultimate goal - Heaven. www. thesharpsquartet.com 41 Anderson St,

Valley Head, AL May 20, Rododendron Festival - The Rododendron Festival, an annual two-day arts and crafts festival, will be held in Mentone, Alabama, at Brow Park annually the third weekend in May. Festival hours are:

Friday, 6:30 - 9:00 bonfire and entertainment on the square, Saturday, 9:00 AM to 5:00PM and Sunday - 10:00AM to 5:00PM arts and crafts, food and entertainment at Brow Park. Brow Park, North Cool Street Mentone AL. Free Admission

Joseph K. McNew, D.V.M • Linda Galbraith, D.V.M. • Jessica Jones, D.V.M.

4 - Friday - January 21, 2022

Southern Torch

LEG LEGALS NOTICE OF DEFAULT AND FORECLOSURE SALE

WHEREAS, 7th day of January, 2011, a certain Mortgage was executed by James E. Brown and wife, Emma A. Brown, as mortgagor in favor of Wells Fargo Bank, NA and was recorded on January 14, 2011, in Mtg Book: 1679, Page 259, Instrument No. 3029137, in the Office of the Judge of Probate of DeKalb County, Alabama, and WHEREAS, the Mortgage was insured by the United States Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (the Secretary) pursuant to the National Housing Act for the purpose of providing single family housing; and WHEREAS, the Mortgage is now owned by the Secretary, pursuant to an assignment; said mortgage transferred and assigned to Nationstar Mortgage, LLC d/b/a Champion Mortgage Company in Misc Book: 478, Page 165, Instrument No. 3096624 on August 16, 2017; said mortgage transferred and assigned to Secretary of Housing and Urban Development in Miscellaneous Bk: 488, Page: 4783 on November 26, 2018 in the Probate Office of DeKalb County, Alabama; and WHEREAS, a default has been made in the covenants and conditions of the Mortgage in that the payment due on September 10, 2021 was not made and remains wholly unpaid as of the date of this notice, and no payment has been made sufficient to restore the loan to currency; and WHEREAS, the entire amount delinquent as of November 12, 2021 is $113,753.06; and WHEREAS, by virtue of this default, the Secretary has declared the entire amount of the indebtedness secured by the mortgage to be immediately due and payable; NOW THEREFORE, pursuant to powers vested in me by the Single Family Mortgage Foreclosure Act of 1994, 12 U.S.C. 3751 et seq., by 24 CFR part 27, subpart B, and by the Secretary’s designation of me as Foreclosure Commissioner, recorded in the Probate Records of DeKalb County, Alabama, notice is hereby giving that on the 10th day of February, 2022 between the hours of 11:00 am and 4:00 pm, local time, all real and personal property at or used in connection with the following described premises (“Property”) will be sold at public auction in front of the main entrance of the DeKalb County, Alabama, Courthouse, in the City of Fort Payne, DeKalb County, Alabama, to

the highest bidder: THE LAND REFERRED TO HEREIN BELOW IS SITUATED IN THE COUNTY OF DEKALB, STATE OF ALABAMA, AND IS DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT A POINT WHERE THE WEST LINE OF SECTION 23, TOWNSHIP 4 SOUTH, RANGE 9 EAST INTERSECTS THE NORTHWESTERLY RIGHT-OF-WAY OF A COUNTY ROAD; RUN NORTH 44 DEG. 22 MIN EAST WITH SAID ROAD 441.0 FEET; THENCE NORTH 61 DEG 00 MIN. WEST 336.4 FEET TO UTILITY POLE ON THE WEST LINE OF SAID SECTION 23, THENCE SOUTH 01 DEG. 41 MIN WEST WITH SAID SECTION LINE 478.56 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING, AND CONTAINING 1.6 ACRES, MORE OR LESS. SAID PARCEL OF LAND LYING IN THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 23, TOWNSHIP 4 SOUTH, RANGE 9 EAST IN DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA. SOURCE OF TITLE: DEED BOOK 307, PAGE 125 DEKALB COUNTY PROBATE OFFICE LESS AND EXCEPT, BEGINNING AT A POINT WHERE THE WEST LINE OF SECTION 23, TOWNSHIP 4 SOUTH, RANGE 9 EAST INTERESTS THE NORTHWESTERLY RIGHT-OF-WAY OF A COUNTY ROAD, RAN NORTH 44 DEG 22 MINUTES EAST WITH SAID ROAD 138.6 FEET: THENCE RUN NORTHWESTERLY TO A POINT ON THE WEST LINE OF SECTION 23 WHICH IS 400 FEET NORTH OF THE POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE RUN SOUTH ALONG THE WEST LINE OF SECTION 23 400 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING, Parcel ID: 05-06-23-0-000-004001 Commonly known as 3561 County Road 712, Henagar, AL 35978.

Property being sold “AS IS”. Property is subject to any title deficiencies. No representation is made as to the title to the subject property Commonly known as: 3561 County Road 712, Henagar, AL 35978.

The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development will bid $113,753.06 plus interest, fees, and costs.

There will be no proration of taxes, rents or other income or liabilities, except that the purchaser will pay, at or before closing, his prorate share of any real estate taxes that have been paid by the Secretary to the date of the foreclosure sale.

When making their bids, all bidders except the Secretary must submit a deposit totaling $11,375.31 [10% of the Secretary’s bid] in the form of a certified check or cashier’s

check made out to the Secretary of HUD. A deposit need not accompany each oral bid. If the successful bid is oral, a deposit of $11,375.31 must be presented before the bidding is closed. The deposit is nonrefundable. The remainder of the purchase price must be delivered within 30 days of the sale or at such other time as the Secretary may determine for good cause shown, time being of the essence.

This amount, like bid deposits, must be delivered in form of a certified or cashier’s check. If the Secretary is the highest bidder, he need not pay the bid amount in cash.

The successful bidder will pay all conveying fees, all real estate and other taxes that are due on or after the delivery date of the remainder of the payment and all other costs associated with the transfer of title. At conclusion of the sale, the deposits of the unsuccessful bidders will be returned to them.

The Secretary may grant an extension of time within which to deliver the remainder of the payment. All extension will be for 15-day increments for a fee of $500.00, paid in advance. The extension fee shall be in the form of a certified or cashier’s check made payable to the Secretary of HUD. If the high bidder closes the sale prior to the expiration of any extension period, the unused portion of the extension fee shall be applied toward the amount due.

If the high bidder is unable to close the sale within the required period, or within any extensions of time granted by the Secretary, the high bidder may be required to forfeit the cash deposit or, at the election of the foreclosure commissioner after consultation with the HUD representative, will be liable to HUD for any costs incurred as a result of such failure. The Commissioner may, at the direction of the HUD representative, offer the property to the second highest bidder for an amount equal to the highest price offered by that bidder.

There is no right or redemption, or right of possession based upon a right of redemption, in the mortgagor or others subsequent to a foreclosure completed pursuant to the Act. Therefore, the Foreclosure Commissioner will issue a Deed to the purchaser(s) upon receipt of the entire purchase price accordance with terms of the sale as provided herein. HUD does not guarantee that the property will be vacant.

The scheduled foreclosure sale shall be cancelled or adjourned if is established, by documented written application of the mortgagor to the

Foreclosure Commissioner not less than 3 days before the date of sale, or otherwise, that the default or defaults upon which the foreclosure sale is based did not exist at the time of service of this notice of default and foreclosure sale, or all amounts due under the mortgage agreement are tendered to the Foreclosure Commissioner, in the form of a certified or cashier’s check payable to the Secretary of HUD, before public auction of the property is completed.

The amount that must be paid in if the mortgage is to be reinstated prior to the scheduled sale is $113,753.06 as of November 12, 2021, plus all other amounts that would be due under the mortgage agreement if payments under the mortgage had not been accelerated, advertising costs and postage expenses incurred in notice, mileage by the most reasonable road distance for posting notices and for the Foreclosure Commissioner’s attendance at the sale, reasonable and customary costs incurred for title and lien record searches, the necessary out-ofpocket costs incurred by the Foreclosure Commissioner for recording documents, a commission for the Foreclosure Commissioner, and all other costs incurred in connection with the foreclosure prior to reinstatement.

Tender of payment by certified or cashier’s check or application for cancellation of the foreclosure sale shall be submitted to the address of the Foreclosure Commissioner provided below.

Date: December 27, 2021 Said notice to be published January 7, 14, and 21

LEGALS

LEGALS

...

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA

The Plaintiff has filed a Verified Complaint to Quiet Title in the Circuit Court of Dekalb County, Alabama in Case Number CV-2021-900250.000 against TOMMY LADON KEEF AND DORIS KEEF, and their unknown heirs, successors, or assigns, and any and all persons claiming any present interest in the real property described above, and including any persons claiming any future, contingent, reversionary, remainder or other interest therein who may claim any interest in this property, and the lands described above and against any or all parties listed above to establish the right and title of the Plaintiff to the lands and to clear up all doubts or disputes concerning the same.

Therefore, the Defendants and any persons claiming and interest in the real property must file an Answer to the Complaint in writing in the Circuit Court of DeKalb County, Alabama by March 9, 2022, or suffer default judgment against them. The Plaintiff requests that the Court will make and enter all orders, judgments, and decrees that may be necessary or proper in the premises, and upon a final hearing thereon, the Plaintiff requests that the Court will make and enter a decree that the Plaintiff has the entire and undivided fee simple interest in the lands, with no restrictions thereon. The Plaintiff further requests such other, further, different, or general relief as he may be entitled in the premises.

CASE NO.: CV-2021-900250.00 MATTHEW RYAN SMITH, Plaintiff VS. LOT 2 IN BLOCK NUMBER 8 IN THE CHOATE ADDITION TO THE CITY OF FORT PAYNE, IN THE COUNTY OF DeKALB AND STATE OF ALABAMA AS RECORDED IN THE OFFICE OF THE JUDGE OF PROBATE OF SAID COUNTY IN BOOK OF MAPS PAGE 85

AND Fictitious Defendants “A” through “F” whose names and addresses are unknown, and any and all parties, including any persons claiming any present interest therein and including any persons claiming any future, contingent, reversionary, remainder, or other interest therein, who may claim any interest in the above-described property, Defendants.

NOTICE BY PUBLICATION PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT NOTICE HEREBY IS GIVEN TO: TOMMY LADON KEEF AND DORIS KEEF, and their unknown heirs, successors, or assigns, and any and all persons claiming any present interest in the real property described above, and including any persons claiming any future, contingent, reversionary, remainder or other interest therein who may claim any interest in this property.

Dated this the 6th day of January, 2022.

Said notice to be published January 14, 21, 28, & February 4

CLASSIFIED Administrative Assistant Position Working with real estate, self storage and construction business. Work hours 8:00 to 5:00 Monday - Friday Need good computer skills, Quickbooks background, basic bookkeeping skills, and good customer service skills Call Wilson Realty at (256)845-1530 for applications e-mail resume to randy@wilsontralty1.com

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA

LEGALS

LEGALS

CASE NO.: DR-21-900274

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF SALLIE ANN ARMSTRONG

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF SHELBY BAKER

TERESA BARAJAS DE LUNA, Plaintiff, vs.

JESUS ANTONIO RAMIREZ, Defendant.

NOTICE OF DIVORCE PROCEEDINGS

CASE NO: 2022-14 IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF SALLIE ANN ARMSTRONG, DECEASED.

CASE NO: 2022-10 IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF SHELBY BAKER, DECEASED.

JESUS ANTONIO RAMIREZ, whose whereabouts are unknown, must answer the Complaint for Divorce and other relief by the 13th day of March, 2022, or, thereafter, a judgment by default may be rendered against him in Case No.: DR-2021900274, in the Circuit Court of DeKalb County, Alabama.

LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION ON THE ESTATE OF SALLIE ANN ARMSTRONG, DECEASED, having been granted to the undersigned on the 13 day of January, 2022, 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.

LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION ON THE ESTATE OF SHELBY BAKER, DECEASED, having been granted to the undersigned on the 13th day of January 2022 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 January 21, 28, February 4, & 11

Said notice to be published January 21, 28, & February 4.

Said notice to be published January 21, 28, & February 4.

NOTICE TO: JESUS ANTONIO RAMIREZ

Friday - January 21, 2022 - 5

Southern Torch

GALS LEGALS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO.: CV-2021-900249.00 MATTHEW RYAN SMITH, Plaintiff vs.

HHD, LLC; and FAYE FULLER, and THEIR UNKNOWN HEIRS AND/OR DEVISEES, IF DECEASED, THEIR SUCCESSORS, AND/ OR ASSIGNS and That certain real estate described specificallyin attached Exhibit “A” attached hereto and made a part hereof by reference and adoption and Fictitious Defendants “A” through “F” whose names and addresses are unknown, and any and all parties, including any persons claiming any present interest therein and including any persons claiming any future, contingent, reversionary, remainder, or other interest therein, who may claim any interest in the above-described property, Defendants NOTICE BY PUBLICATION

PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT NOTICE HEREBY IS GIVEN TO: HHD, LLC and Faye Fuller, their unknown heirs and devisees, if deceased, their successors, and/or assigns, and any and all persons claiming any present interest in the real property described above, and including any persons claiming any future, contingent, reversionary, remainder or other interest therein who may claim any interest in this property.

The Plaintiff has filed a Verified Complaint to Quiet Title in the Circuit Court of Dekalb County, Alabama in Case Number CV-2021-900249.00 against HHD, LLC and Faye Fuller, their unknown heirs and devisees, if deceased, their successors, and/ or assigns, and any and all persons claiming any present interest in the real property described above, and including any persons claiming any future, contingent, reversionary, remainder or other interest therein who may claim any interest in this property, and the lands described above and against any or all parties listed above to establish the right and title of the Plaintiff to the lands and to clear up all doubts or disputes concerning the same.

Therefore, the Defendants and any persons claiming and interest in the real property must file an Answer to the Complaint in writing in , the Circuit Court of DeKalb County, Alabama by MARCH 1, 2022, or suffer default judgment against them. The Plaintiff requests that the Court will make and enter all orders, judgments, and decrees that may be necessary or proper in the premises, and

upon a final hearing thereon, the Plaintiff requests that the Court will make and enter a decree that the Plaintiff has the entire and undivided fee simple interest in the lands, with no restrictions thereon. The Plaintiff further requests such other, further, different, or general relief as he may be entitled in the premises.

EXHIBIT “A” The SE 1/4 of the NE 1/4 of Section 33, Township 7, Range 6 East, containing 40 acres, more or less situated in DeKalb County, Alabama.

LESS AND EXCEPT THE FOLLOWING TRACTS: TRACT ONE: Commencing at the Southwest corner of the SE 1/4 of the NE 1/4 of Section 33, Township 7 South, Range 6 East of the Huntsville Meridian, DeKalb County, Alabama run due North with the West boundary line of the SE 1/4 of the NE 1/4 of said Section 33 for 542.41 feet for a point of beginning.

Thence continue due North with said West boundary line for 418.00 feet; thence leaving said West boundary line run N 84° 53’ 23” E for 229.14 feet; thence run S 00° 00’ 58” W for 418.04 feet to a point on the North side of a 30.0 foot access and utility easement; thence run S 84° 54’ 33” West with the North side of said easement for 229.02 feet to the point of beginning.

Said property is lying in Section 33, Township 7 South, Range 6 East of the Huntsville Meridian, DeKalb County, Alabama and contains 2.0 acres, more or less.

Said property is subject to a 20.0 foot access and utility easement lying along the West boundary line of said property. Said property is in favor of a 30.0 foot access and utility easement lying South and immediately adjacent to the South boundary line of said property.

Deed Book 568, Page 348, Office of Judge of Probate, DeKalb County, Alabama.

TRACT TWO: A tract of land in the Southeast Quarter of the Northeast Quarter of Section 33, Township 7 South, Range 6 East, DeKalb County, Alabama further described; Commence at the Southwest comer of said Quarter- Quarter, 2 5/8” Rebar, running N 0° 38’ 36” W 209.00 feet to 2 1/2” capped re-bar (KBD 2670), the point of beginning; N 0° 38’ 36” W 303.41 feet to a 2 1/2”capped re-bar (KBD 2670); N 84° 11’ 55” E 438.00 feet; S 87° 55’ 49” E 104.00 feet; S 83° 42’ 27” E 313.57 feet; S 82° 10’ 18” E 473.59 feet to 2 1/2” capped re-bar (KBD 2670); S 0° 13’ 25” W 241.00 feet to 2 1/2” Re-bar; N 89° 44’

26” W 889.52 feet to 2 Y2” capped re-bar (JBD-PLS); S 50° 45’ 00” W 11.22’ to 2 1/2” re-bar; S 89° 52’ 05” W 418.00 feet to the point of beginning containing 9.26 acres more or less.

Also an ingress/egress easement North of and adjacent to the four Northerly courses of said tract running from DeKalb Co. Rd. 333 on the West QuarterQuarter line to the East Quarter-Quarter line being 1329.16 feet.

According to that certain survey of Jimmy Hubbard, Davis & David Land Surveying & Engineering.

Deed Book 637, Page 273, Office of Judge of Probate, DeKalb County, Alabama.

TRACT THREE: A tract in the Southeast quarter of the Northeast quarter and the Northeast quarter of the Northeast quarter of Section 33 and the Northwest quarter of the Northwest quarter of Section 34. All in Township 7 South, Range 6 East, DeKalb County, Alabama, further described as follows: Commence at the Hexbolt at the Southeast corner of the Southeast quarter of the Northeast quarter of said Section 33, Township 7 South, Range 6 East and run N 000 13’ 25” E 480.93’ to a 1/2” Capped Rebar (KBD 2670). The point of beginning for the tract herein described: thence continue N 00° 13’ 25” E 849.44’ to a 1/2” Capped Rebar (KBD 2670); thence continue N 000 13’ 25” E 16.00 feet to the center of a Branch; thence along the center of said Branch to the center of Town Creek a chord bearing and distance of N 19° 19’ 57” E 672 feet; thence along Town Creek to a point on a chord bearing and distance of N 72° 20’ 07” W 1103.31 feet; thence leaving Town Creek run S 000 13’ 25” W 244 feet to a 1/2” Capped Rebar (KBD 2670); thence continue S 00° 13’ 25” W 84.93 feet to a 1/2 Capped Rebar (JBDPLS); thence run N 89° 57’ 28” E 100 feet to a 1/2” Capped Rebar (JBD-PLS); thence run S 30° 41’ 07” E 710 feet to a 1/2” Capped Rebar (JBD-PLS); thence run S 06° 33’ 42” W 780 feet to a 1/2” Capped Rebar (JBD-PLS); on the North margin of a 30’ ingress egress easement; thence S 82° 10’ 18” E along said North line 474.05 feet to the point of beginning, containing 15.25 acres, more or less.

Also: An Ingress/ Egress easement being 30 feet wide from the Southeast comer of said 15.25 Acre tract to the East Right of Way of DeKalb County Road #333 as described from the same said point of beginning run these four courses with the 30 foot easement lying

South of an adjacent to said courses; N 82° 10’ 18” W 474.05 feet; N 83°42’ 27” W 313.57 feet; N 87° 55’ 49” W 104 feet; S 84° 11’ 55” W 438 feet to 1/2 Rebar on the East Right of Way of DeKalb County Road #333 ending said 30’ Easement.

The above property being subject to a 20 feet wide Ingress/ Egress Utility Easement along the West side of said 15.25 Acre Tract and being described as follows: Commence at said point of commencement for said 15.25 acre Tract and run N 00° 13’ 25” E 480.93 feet; N 82° 10’ 18” W 474.05 feet to the center of said 20 foot wide Easement; being 10 feet on both sides of these Three courses N 06° 33’ 42” E 780 feet; N 30° 41’ 07” W 710 feet; N 560 56’ 22” W 119.02’ to the end of said Easement.

Deed Book 645, Page 132, Office of Judge of Probate, DeKalb County, Alabama.

TRACT FOUR: All that part of the E 1/2 of the NE 1/4 of Section 33, Township 7 South, Range 6 East of the Huntsville Meridian, more particularly described as follows: Commencing at a stone corner found at the Northwest comer of the NE 1/4 of the NE 1/4 of said section; thence S 000 13’ 53” E a distance of 949.61 feet to an iron pin set at the point of beginning, from said point of beginning, N 64° 28’ 17” E a distance of 551.93 feet to an iron pin set; thence S 89° 55’ 17” E a distance of 100.00 feet to an iron pin set; thence S 300 33’ 52” E a distance of 710.00 feet to an iron pin set; thence S 06° 40’ 24” W a distance of 780.00 feet to an iron pin set; thence N 83° 36’ 54” W a distance of 313.50 feet to a capped iron pin found; thence N 00° 34’ 35” W a distance of 418.19 feet to a capped iron pin found; thence N 87° 53’ 04” W a distance of 103.97 feet to a capped iron pin found; thence S 00° 38’ 37” E a distance of 209.28 feet to a ‘A” rebar iron found; thence S 84° 22’ 00” W a distance of 209.25 feet to a capped iron pin found; thence N 00° 33’ 50” W a distance of 209.07 feet to a capped iron pin found; thence S 84° 19’ 17” W a distance of 229.07 feet to a capped iron pin found; thence N 01° 00’ 19” W a distance of 735.00 feet to the point of beginning, containing 21.00 acres more or less, less and except any easements or rights-of-way, and being a portion of the NE 1/4 of the NE 1/4 and the SE 1/4 of the NE ‘A of Section 33, Township 7 South, Range 6 East of the Huntsville Meridian, DeKalb County, Alabama.

Subject to the Northerly and Westerly ten feet of an ingress/ egress/utility easement, Twenty (20) feet in width, lying ten (10) feet, either side of

Deed Book 537, Page 338, Office of Judge of Probate, DeKalb County, Alabama.

the centerline, more particularly described as follows: Commencing at a stone corner found at the Northwest corner of the NE 1/4 of the NE 1/4 of said section, thence S 00° 13’ 53” E a distance of 949.61 feet to an iron pin set; thence N 64° 28’ 17” E a distance of 551.93 feet to an iron pin set; thence S 89° 55’ 17” E a distance of 100.00 feet to an iron pin set at the beginning of said easement; thence along the centerline of said easement, S 30° 33’ 52” E a distance of 710.00 feet to an iron pin set; thence S 06° 40” 24” W a distance of 780.00 feet to an iron pin set; thence N 83° 36’ 54” W a distance of 313.50 feet to a capped iron pin found at the intersection with a thirty foot (30’) easement as recorded in Deed Book 467, pages 141 and 142 in the Judge of Probate Office in DeKalb County, Alabama and the terminus of said easement.

Subject to an ingress/ egress/utility easement twenty feet (20’) in width, lying evenly along, East of and contiguous with the West line of the abovedescribed property.

Deed Book 670, Page 304, Office of Judge of Probate, DeKalb County, Alabama.

A lot in the Southeast Quarter of the Northeast Quarter of Section 33, Township 7 South, Range 6 East, DeKalb County, Alabama further described: Commence at the purported Southwest comer of said quarter-quarter, a 5/8” rebar, guarded by a 5/8” rebar one foot tall, the point of beginning running N 00° 38’ 36” W 209.00 feet to a ‘A” capped rebar (C. DAVIS-CA 0268); N 89° 52’ 05’ E 418.00 feet to a 1/2” capped rebar (C. DAVIS-CA 0268); S 00° 38’ 36” E 209.00 feet to a 1/2” capped rebar (C. DAVIS-CA 0268); S 89° 52’ 05” W 418.00 feet to the point of beginning, containing 2.0 acres, more or less. Excepting any public road right of ways on the West side of said lot.

Source of description provided by Grantee and taken from that certain survey done May 14, 2000 by Charley Davis AL Reg. 12512 and further reference Administrator’s deed recorded in Deed Book 516, Page 140-141, DeKalb County Probate Office. Deed Book 516, Page 294, Office of Judge of Probate, DeKalb County, Alabama.

TRACT FIVE:

TRACT SEVEN:

A lot in the Southeast quarter of the Northeast quarter of Section 33, Township 7 South, Range 6 East, Dekalb County, Alabama further described: Commence at a 5/8” rebar, the Southwest corner of said quarter-quarter running N 000 38’ 36” W 542.41 feet; N 84° 11’ 55” E 229.00 feet to the point of beginning, a penny painted to a rock with orange paint; N 00° 38’ 36” W 209.00 feet to a capped rebar marked (C. DAVIS-CA 0268) as all other capped rebars on this original survey; N 84° 11’ 55” E 209.00 feet to a capped rebar; S 00° 38’ 36” E 209.00 feet to a capped rebar; S 84° 11’ 55” W 209.00 feet to the point of beginning, containing one acre more or less.

And an Ingress-Egress easement 30 feet wide described as follows: Commence at the Southwest corner of said quarter-quarter running N 00° 38’ 36” W 542.41 feet to the point of beginning of said easement; thence a 30 feet wide strip on the South side of this course N 84° 1 1 ‘ 55” E 438.00 feet also being an easement from the east right-of-way of DeKalb County Road No. 333 to front lot.

Source of description provided by Grantor, and taken from that certain survey done (for Renae Smith) on 7.17.01 by Charley Davis, Davis & Davis Land Surveying & Engineering, AL REG 12512 and further reference Deed Book 516, Page 140-141, recorded in the DeKalb County Probate Office.

All that part of the SE 1/4 of the NE 1/4 of Section 33, Township 7 South, Range 6 East of the Huntsville Meridian, more particularly described as follows: Commencing at a 1” pipe found at the Southeast corner of the SE 1/4 of the SE 1/4 of said section; thence along the east line of said section, N 00° 05’ 56” W a distance of 2,642.08 feet to a 3/4 inch iron pin found, at the Southeast corner of the SE 1/4 of the NE 1/4 of said section, at the point of beginning.

From said point of beginning and leaving said section line, S 89° 13’ 46” W a distance of 662.06 feet to a 2” pipe found: thence N 86° 39’ 36” W a distance of 229.57 feet to a capped iron pin found; thence N 00° 21’ 19” E a distance of 210.00 feet to an iron pin set; thence S 89° 42’ 44” a distance of 889.52 feet to an iron pin set on the east line of the SE 1/4 of the NE 1/4 of said section; thence along said section line, S 00° 05’ 56” E a distance of 210.00 feet to the point of beginning, containing 4.42 acres, more or less, less and except any easements or rights-of-way, and being a portion of the SE 1/4 of the NE 1/4 of Section 33, Township 7 South, Range 6 East of the Huntsville Meridian, DeKalb County, Alabama.

Deed Book 569, Page 260, Office of Judge of Probate, DeKalb County, Alabama.

Dated this the 29th day of December, 2022.

TRACT SIX:

Said notice to be published January 7, 14, 21, and 28

6 - Friday - January 21, 2022

Southern Torch

Powell Names New Chief

Saferite to Retire from Fire Department

New Powell Police Chief Stephen Malone and his daughter, Anslee enjoying the recent snow Submitted Photo

Ron Saferite pictured with latest fire engine for the Fort Payne Fire Department Photo by Marla Jones

By Marla Jones Managing Editor

marla@southerntorch.com

POWELL, Ala.-- A new police chief for the Town of Powell was announced at Monday night’s Council meeting.

Chief Nelson Gregory stepped down as the Powell Police Chief but will still serve the town as a patrolman.

Stephen Malone was announced as Gregory’s replacement.

In a statement to Southern Torch, Malone expressed gratitude for the opportunity, “I feel extremely blessed to be given the opportunity to serve the Town of Powell, especially in this capacity as Chief.

I’m extremely thankful for the City Council’s support, not only me but my amazing team of officers.”

Malone spoke of pay raises that the Council had approved for the Powell employees.

“They [Council] have been so generous as to

approve a raise for all of our part-time and full-time officers during the last meeting.

Having a supportive and friendly community like ours to work in makes all the difference” stated Malone.

Chief Malone always envisioned himself as a police officer, even at a young age.

“Nine years ago, I started this journey in law enforcement as a reserve officer. I made my way through the police academy, became Sergeant, and then was promoted to Captain” stated Malone.

“As a young kid, I dreamed of being a police officer. After all these years, just hearing someone call me Chief is truly a dream come true.

Helping to protect others and make a difference in as many lives as I can is my top priority. As I’ve continued this journey of protecting and serving, I am honored and humbled to accept the position of Chief.

Honestly, I’ve probably not been this excited in

my career since graduating from the academy and hitting those blue lights during my first traffic stop.

On Chief Malone’s first official day, he hit the ground running to ensure that the surrounding departments knew that Powell would cooperate and assist as needed.

“I’ve spoken with a few other Chiefs in the area already, and I am looking forward to providing all the help we can with all local municipalities as well as the Sheriff’s Office.

They do an outstanding job at answering calls of service for our town if we are busy on calls or unavailable. I believe we live in the best county in Alabama, and we have the best officers around. I am so proud to work among them to help serve our great community” concluded Malone.

Southern Torch would like to be the first to congratulate Chief Stephen Malone on his promotion.

By Marla Jones Managing Editor

marla@southerntorch.com

FORT PAYNE, Ala.-- On January 21, Fort Payne Fire Chief Ron Saferite, will take his last call.

Saferite served the City of Fort Payne for 31 ½ years.

He started his career as a dispatcher Assistant Fire Chief, Fire Marshall, and finished as Chief.

A graduate of Fort Payne High School, Saferite furthered his education at Northeast Alabama Community College, Alabama Fire

College, and Shelton State College.

He has over 1900 hours of training in the Fire Emergency Service.

Saferite is a member of the FEMA Urban Search and Rescue (USAR). He has helped in many natural disasters across Alabama.

Whether it be hurricanes on the Gulf Coast, tornadoes, or numerous house fires, Saferite could always be found, ready to lend a helping hand.

While retiring, Saferite is still

If you would like to announce your political campaign, contact Marla Jones marla@southerntorch.com

Complex FROM PAGE 1

cycle.

While the total scope of the project is being narrowed down, the estimated cost would be under four million dollars, not including fencing, for the approximately 630,000 square feet of complex.

Fort Payne Superintendent, Brian Jett was present and addressed the Council about his support of the proposal.

After hearing the proposal from Warner Athletic Construction, a motion was made to pause the bidding process at the “New Complex” until a work session can be held to discuss which plan would be the best for the development of Fort Payne.

The New Complex had a total of six (6) total soccer fields, with four (4) grass fields and two (2) turf fields being proposed. Seven Million Dollars was allocated by the Council for the development of the new field. The “pause” of the field, will only stop the

Concerned Citizen, Scottie Vaughn addressed the Fort Payne City Council regarding projects that the City has.

Marla Jones| Southern Torch

“bidding out” of additional work.

Work on fields will be completed by the City of Fort Payne.

According to environmental regulations, the site can not be left as is.

Some form of vegetation must be in place at the site.

Fort Payne Public Works Director, Tim Williams stated in the meeting, that some form of grass would have to be completed to avoid another fine from the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM). Fort Payne was cited for this project, according to Mayor Baine, for run-off at the silk wall.

It is undecided whether grass seed,

fescue, bermudagrass, or sod will be placed on the fields.

In new business, the Council approved the following: Authorized James Payton of Ladd Environmental to prepare the engineering specifications and begin the process of obtaining easements on the “Middle Portion” of the sewer upgrade project.

Budget adjustment for $16,000 for server software renewal.

Authorized expenditure of $40,000 to the Patriot’s Park project Authorize preparations of specifications for the interior of the Police

looking to extend his public service career, if elected for the position of District 3 Commissioner.

“I would like to thank the Mayor and Fort Payne City Council for the equipment and personnel to better serve the citizens of Fort Payne. I would also like to extend my appreciation to the citizens of Fort Payne for supporting our fire department” concluded Saferite.

The Fort Payne City Council named Stacy Smith as Saferite’s replacement.

Department building.

Mayor Baine updated the Council on the new Hwy 55 restaurant, which will be located on the site of the former DeKalb County Tourism Building.

According to Baine, the Development Company has a letter in hand from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and are in the process of obtaining permits to begin construction.

According to the development company “work will begin, sooner rather than later”.

Baine also updated the Council on the progress of the demolition of the Old Hospital site.

The demolition

company has started working five days a week to finish demolition. Bricks from the Old Hospital will be sold as a fundraiser for the Patriots Park. Call the Fort Payne City Hall to be placed on the list for the bricks.

At the close of the meeting, Scottie Vaughn, a concerned citizen, addressed the Council about the projects that the City of Fort Payne has underway.

“I am concerned about the multiple projects that you are sending out to bid. It sounds like a lot of money from the Police Station to the new complex. I know yall voted to start it, but without having a tangible, hard number in

hand, I feel that may have been a premature vote on some of this” stated Vaughn.

“I think we need to take a minute, to get all the projects from the sewer, police station, new complex, old complex and get all the information as a whole, not individual projects. Individual projects may sound good but as a whole, we don’t have the money to do it, quite frankly. I don’t want to be back up here B talking about a tax increase. We need r to take our time and t b get a good plan” Vaughn concluded. J c The Council went l into Executive h Session to discuss w a contract negotiations. After the Council returned lq from the executive a session, it was y t announced that a Public Hearing will n be held on February c s 15, 2022, to accept T comments of the City b entering into a A T memorandum of understanding with t p Marathon Realty c Group Inc., to being p a Food City Grocery t Store to Fort Payne. c The next meeting e t of the Fort Payne t City Council will be held on February 1, e beginning at 12:30 w F p.m.

E

Friday - January 21, 2022 - 7

Southern Torch

POLITICAL

t Kuykendall Seeks Re-Election Special to Southern Torch

FORT PAYNE, ALABAMA-- DeKalb County businessman Chris Kuykendall recently announced that he will seek reelection for the office of Commissioner.

District Three on the DeKalb County Commission. He was first elected to the position in 2010.

Kuykendall graduated from Fort Payne High School and Auburn University. He was a Commissioned Officer in the United States Air Force serving over 16 years active and reserve and attained the rank of Captain.

Kuykendall has been in the Insurance business for over 50 years and has interests in the textile industry as well as agricultural and livestock operations.

Early in his career, he worked as an Assistant County Supervisor with the Farmer’s Home Administration. He has a unique perspective of business from the viewpoint of an employee and as an employer as well. As a long-time entrepreneur, he understands how to manage people and resources and how

to do so within one’s budget. He has used this experience and knowledge to ensure that the taxpayer’s monies are spent wisely and effectively.

Kuykendall and his wife, Sheila, have been married for over 50 years. They have four children, four grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.

In addition to being a Public Servant.

Kuykendall has been actively involved in community functions and organizations.

He was Chairman of the DeKalb County Hospital Association during the period of construction of what is now DeKalb Regional Medical Center, Chairman of the United Givers Fund and Board member for the past 20 years; President of the Fort Payne Jaycees and Fort Payne Rotary Club as well as the Chairman of the Fort Payne Depot Museum Board.

“I have been honored to have served the people of DeKalb County as a Commissioner for over a decade and much has been accomplished.

Thanks to the joint efforts of our County Government Association, local Legislators, Business and Agriculture /

Foserty Organizations an increase in fuel tax revenue has enabled most Counties to have nearly twice the resources they had only four years ago.

You can readily see the improvements being made by the Rebuild Alabama funds on our roads and bridges.

Nearly $100,000 will be spent on paving/ re-surfacing roads in District Three in 2022.”

“For the past two years, we have all been living thru the most difficult Public Health crisis of our lifetimes. I cannot adequately express my gratitude to all those who are in critical positions ranging from maintenance employees to medical workers and first responders to educational instructors and many more occupations, for the dedication to their jobs under the most difficult and hazardous of conditions. May the good Lord bless you and your families for your service to your fellow man.”

“Thank you for the confidence you have placed in me over the years and I humbly ask for your continued support.”

The Republican Primary Election will be held on May 24, 2022.

DISTRICT ATTORNEY

Paid political ad by Nick Jones, P.O. Box 5, Rainsville, AL 35986

Inside The Statehouse

By Steve Flowers The 2022 annual regular session of the legislature has begun. It began January 11 and constitutionally can last three and onehalf months, which would have it ending at the end of April.

This is the last year of the quadrennium and an election year. Therefore, the legislature will not address any controversial or substantive issues.

This has always been the case in Alabama politics.

This rule will ring true this year as it has in past years. They will come into session, pass the budgets, then go home to campaign. They may even adjourn early this year, probably the first part of April.

It will be an easy year, budget wise. The General Fund and Special Education Trust

Fund will again have growth in revenue.

The economy is still percolating from the COVID recovery, especially because of the influx of federal dollars.

Alabama will have received over four billion dollars from the Federal American Rescue Plan (ARP) COVID relief money. Almost half has been earmarked and given to schools, counties and cities and will not be allocated by the legislature.

The state received over $500 million in 2021. Most of that, over $400 million, went to build new prisons, which was the most significant achievement last year. There will be approximately $560 million of ARP money coming into Alabama for this year. The legislature will be able to play Santa Claus in an election year. The

General Fund Chairmen, Steve Clouse (R-Ozark) in the House and Greg Albritton (R-Escambia) in the Senate, are being lobbied heavily as might be expected.

They will be looking at several ways to disburse these federal dollars.

The feds like the states to focus on rural broadband expansion, water and sewage projects, and hospitals and nursing homes. It will be a short and successful and non-controversial session.

Governor Ivey will miss her right arm, Jo Bonner.

He has served as a quasi-governor for the past three years. Kay Ivey and Jo Bonner have a lifetime bond. They are both from Wilcox County, and like family. This remote rural black belt, southwest Alabama county has spawned

Jeff Sessions, Kay Ivey, Judy Bonner and Jo Bonner. Jeff, Kay and Judy are all about the same age.

Jo is about 15 years younger and like Kay’s little brother.

Kay has never not known Jo Bonner.

He has been the most influential Chief of Staff to a governor in state history.

In November 2021, it was announced that Jo Bonner will become President of the University of South Alabama. He will be the fourth president of the University of South Alabama, which is the third largest university in the state. Jo Bonner is perfect for this position. His decade as a congressman from Mobile and his prowess as an economic developer and civic leader coupled with his winning personality will propel the university in Mobile to a regional

educational and medical center for Alabama, Mississippi and Northwest Florida.

He is revered in Washington. His political connections and persona will make the University of South Alabama a politically powerful institution.

The governor made a wise and prudent move to fill the void left by Jo Bonner’s departure from the governor’s office. She made her loyal, dedicated and extremely qualified ally, Liz Filmore, Chief of Staff. Liz had already been functioning as a quasi-Chief of Staff to Ivey and Bonner.

A few months ago, Ivey adroitly convinced State Representative Bill Poole of Tuscaloosa to become her finance director.

Poole is immensely and uniquely qualified for finance director. He served

over a decade in the House of Representatives.

Eight of those years he chaired the Education Budget Committee and wrote the State Education budget.

He was and still is one of the most universally wellliked and respected legislators in the state. Bill will remain finance director and Liz will be Chief of Staff.

They will be part of what Governor Ivey will rely on as her leadership team. The other two members of the fourperson team will be Brooks McClendon and Nathan Lindsey, who will be elevated to Deputy Chief of Staff. Governor Ivey along with Jo Bonner has run an exemplary Ship of State administratively.

See you next week.

8 - Friday - January 21, 2022

Southern Torch

OBITUARIES Wilson Gayle VanPelt Johnson - 77, of Fort Payne, passed away Saturday, January 15, 2022. Funeral services will be 2 p.m.

Wednesday with burial following in VanPelt Family Cemetery.

Callie Sue Ashley Burt - 78 of Fort Payne, passed away January 17, 2022 at her residence. Funeral services will be 2:00pm Thursday, January 20th, with burial following.

Burt Billy Joe Morgan - 74, of Sylvania, Alabama, passed away on Sunday, January 9, 2022. Funeral: Thursday, January 20, 2022 1:00 PM EST. Naomi Irene Helms - 79, of Blair Mills, Pennsylvania, formerly of Fort Payne, Alabama, passed away on Friday, January 6.

Date of Funeral: Friday, January 14, 2022 at 1:00 PM. Joyce Rita Clardy - 71, of Collinsville, Alabama, passed away on Friday, January 14, 2022. The Family will announce a Memorial Service at a later date.

Mary Ann Cole 60, of Fort Payne, Alabama passed away

on Saturday, January 15, 2022. The Family will announce a Memorial Service at a later date.

Matthew Austin McReynolds - 22, of Fort Payne, Alabama passed away on Monday, January 17, 2022. Funeral: Thursday, January 20, 2022 at 2:00 PM.

Cornerstone Lula Gertrude Freeman Brown - 88 of Flat Rock died Wednesday, January 12 surrounded by her family. Funeral services are Saturday at 2 PM ET at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel.

Donna Marie Hurst - 72 of Ider died Thursday, January 13 at Dekalb Regional Medical Center.

Funeral services are Tuesday at 2 PM CT. Burial will follow.

Geraldine Lee Roy Collins - 81 of Geraldine, passed away on Thursday, January 13, 2022. Funeral service is Tuesday, January 18, 2022 at 1:00 pm in Geraldine Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Welton Brooks and Rev. Willis Kelly officiating. Burial will follow in DeKalb Memorial Gardens.

Rainsville Terry Williams - 79 passed away on Tuesday, January 11, 2022. Funeral service will be held Saturday, January 15, 2022 at 2PM. Burial will follow in Kirk Memorial Gardens.

Joseph Henry Pranger III - 70 passed away on Tuesday, January 11, 2022.

Private memorial services will be held at a later date.

Lonnie B. Payne - 74 passed away on Wednesday, January 12, 2022 at Highlands Medical Center.

Service will be held Friday, January 14, 2022 at 2PM. Elizabeth Presswood Light - 88, passed away on Saturday, January 15, 2022 at Crowne Healthcare. Graveside service will be Tuesday, January 18, 2022 at 1:00 pm in Glenwood Cemetery.

Jake “Caveman” Barkley - 55 passed away on Monday, January 17, 2022.

Funeral service will be Thursday, January 20, 2022 at 2:00 pm.

Burial will follow.

Scottsboro Brady West - born January 10th, 2022 and became an Angel for the Lord January 10th, 2022. Brady was the son of Caleb and Hannah West of Pleasant Groves, AL. Although Brady’s time here with us was very short, the love for him will be everlasting.

Alice Faye Holt 78, of Scottsboro, known to most as Faye, on Tuesday, January 11, 2022.

Funeral services will be held January 15, 2022 at 11:00 a.m.

Burial will follow.

Patrick “Frenchy” Lewis - passed away, January 12th, 2022. He was born on August 28th, 1947, in a small town outside of Paris, France. Service will be on January 20th, at 2:00p.m.

Wayne Paul Berry - 62, of Scottsboro, passed away on Thursday, January 13, 2022. Funeral services will be held on Monday, January 17, 2022 at 2:00 p.m.

Comer Dean Jacobs - 85, of Scottsboro, passed away on Friday, January 14, 2022. A private service was held.

Richard Rousseau - 73, of Woodville, passed on Saturday, January 15, 2022.

Funeral services will be, January 21, 2022 at 1:00 p.m.

Tommy Ray Talley - 62, of Dutton, passed away on Saturday, January 15, 2022.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 22, 2022 at 2:00 p.m.

Daniel Bleifus - 67, of Pleasant Groves, passed away on Sunday, January 16, 2022. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, January 20, 2022 at 2:00 p.m.

Demple Nadine Swafford - 79, of Paint Rock, passed away on Monday, January 17, 2022. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 22, 2022 at 12 noon.

passed away on Monday, January 10, 2022. Funeral services will be held at 4pm Monday, January 17.

Donald Everette Welden - 76 of Rainsville, passed away Tuesday, January 11, 2022. Services will be held at 1pm on Friday, January 14.

Gladys Jeanette Edmondson - 76, of Henagar passed away on Tuesday, January 11, 2022. Funeral services are set for 11am Friday, January 14.

Brandy Lynn Smith - 38 of Stevenson, passed away Wednesday, January 12, 2022. Funeral services will be held at 3pm on Saturday, January 15.

David Arch Perry - passed on January 13, 2022. Service for David is at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, February 5.

Danny Roy “Worm” Cannady - 68, of Albertville passed away on Friday, January 14, 2022.

Services are set for 2pm, January 19.

Rethie Mae McAnelly - 81, of Fyffe passed away on Friday, January 14, 2022. Services will be held at 11:00am, January 19.

Kenneth “Kenny” Dewayne Nelms - 61, of Dawson passed on

Friday, January 14, 2022. Funeral service will be held at 3pm Tuesday, January 18.

Floyd “Tootie” Ray Wilson - 77, of Henegar passed away on Friday, January 14, 2022. Funeral service will be held at 1pm Tuesday, January 18, 2022. Burial to follow.

William (Bill) Ferald Coker - 91, passed away peacefully on January 16, 2022. Due to Covid 19 the family has elected for private family only services.

Billy Marion Faulkner - 85 of Fyffe, passed away January 16, 2022. Funeral services will be held at 12pm, January 21, 2022, burial to follow.

Nell Virginia Williams Burgess - 78 passed away Sunday, January 16, 2022.

Funeral services will be held at 2pm on Thursday, January 20.

Bobby Lavone Croft - 65, of Crossville passed away on Sunday, January 16, 2022. Funeral services are set for 1pm Wednesday, January 19.

Sylvia Maria Eakins - 81, passed away Monday, January 17, 2022. Services will be held at 11am on Thursday, January 20, with burial to follow.

Burt Funeral H omes

W.T. Wilson Jason Scott Jenkins - 41, of Section

BUISNESS

AMY THRASH ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE amy@southerntorch.com

Office: (256)638-4040 Cell: (256)996-0460

QUALITY JEWELRY

James Allensworth • allensworth@aol.com 1706 Glenn Blvd., Suite 4 Fort Payne, AL 35968 • (256) 997-7591

KANDIELAND DAY CARE CENTER 333 DILBECK RD IN RAINSVILLE

(256)638-4848

Scottsboro

(256) 259-2211

W.T. Wilson

PHONE: (256)638-2700 FAX: (256)638-3488

Simple, Convenient & Less Expensive Shari Jones - Agent

Kim Horton Reality P.O. Box 2315 Rainsville, AL 35986

256-638-5281 www.greateralabamamls.com

Marla Jones (256)605-4427

Hometown banking, wherever you are!

226 Gault Ave. N • Fort Payne, AL 35967 Phone: 256-845-5680 Fax: 256-845-5165

W.T. Wilson

PHONE: (256)638-2700 FAX: (256)638-3488

Simple, Convenient & Less Expensive

o

24/7 EMERGENCY SERVICE S DO YOU HAVE A MOLD PROBLEM? (256)273-4900

Advertise here for $12.50

A C I r o w c w f f B (

Friday - January 21, 2022 - 9

Southern Torch

SPORTS

Rainsville Sweeps JH Tournament

On Saturday, Plainview swept the DeKalb County Tournament, winning the Championship in Junior High Girls, 7th Boys, 8th Boys, and 9th Boys.

PHOTO CREDIT: Cheryl Boydston

CRIME

Henagar Man Saturday January 29th 11:00AM Arrested LAND! LAND! LAND!

From the Office of DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden: FORT PAYNE, Ala. The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Investigation’s Unit received information of an adult male who was possibly having communications with an underage female. After further investigation, Bobby Cole Howell (27 of Henagar)

111 Acres, 3 Tracts in Fort Payne, Alabama

The Pioneer Credit Property

Co-Broker

Wilson Realty 256-845-1530

Auction Site: Inside the former clubhouse on Tract 3 was charged with Electronic Solicitation of a Child and 2 Failure to Appear warrants.

This is an ongoing investigation.

DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden said of the incident: “This type of behavior will not be tolerated. I have said many times and I will say it many more, our children will always be our

number one priority.

Our children have one chance to belittle, to be silly and carefree. A child’s innocence is one of the most precious things on earth and it is our job to protect them from predators that want to take that from them.”

“God Bless!”

Concluded Sheriff Welden.

Check our video on YouTube under “The Pioneer Credit Property Fort Payne, Alabama”

Real Estate Terms: A 10% Buyers Premium will be added to the highest bid and will be paid the day of the sale. The balance is due on or before closing within 30 days.

Location: The property is just off of Briarwood Avenue SW in Fort Payne, Alabama and is near to Interstate 59 and next to the DeKalb County Health Department. The property is secluded but still convenient to restaurants and shopping. The land is about an hour from Chattanooga and an hour and a half from Birmingham.

For more information: Call Jim Givens at Auctions United, 800-222-5003, Wilson Realty, 256-845-1530, Randy Wilson, 256-997-6972, or Beau Wilson, 256-844-7298

All information contained in this brochure was derived from sources believed to be correct, but is not guaranteed. Any announcement made from the auction stand shall take precedence over any printed matter in this brochure. You must register to bid. You may register upon arrival at the property site. A drivers license or other picture ID will be required to registrater.

Licensed • Bonded • Insured

16 Commerce Court, Rome, Georgia

James Givens, AL Broker Lic. Q4D 8246 James Givens, AAL 1218

800-222-5003 auctionsunited.com

10 - Friday - January 21, 2022

Southern Torch

New Year New Ride Event!

Monday - Saturday 8:30AM-6PM

(256)844-2210 WWW.BOBBYLEDBETTER.COM

1015 Gault Avenue South, Fort Payne, AL 35967