ST Vol 8 No 38

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

RAINSVILLE, Ala.--The Rainsville City Council held its regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, September 19.

The Council passed the City of Rainsville’s

2022-2023 FY Budget

(Resolution 09-19-2021) in the amount of $5,347,800, 00, which is an 8% increase in proposed revenues from last year.

According to Mayor Rodger Lingerfelt, this budget will include a 3% cost of living raise for employees starting in

January, if the economy remains stable.

Diana Goss of the New E-Center in Rainsville was a special guest at the meeting. Goss updated the Council on the plans for the Center. The E-Center will have a total of four professional offices and four

manufacturing bays in the back of the facility.

A grant from ARC aided in the opening of the Center, along with sponsorships.

At the Special Work Session of the Rainsville City Council, Rainsville Police Chief Michael Edmondson expressed

the need for a generator at the Police Station. After checking prices from manufacturers, the Council approved the purchase of a generator for the Police Department in the amount of

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

FORT PAYNE, Ala.-- Marked For Life Ministries Hope Center held a “Lunch and Learn” event on Tuesday, September 20 at Alice Circle, in Fort Payne.

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

lights, and fencing.

Warner Athletic and the Council discussed going into a contract to “groom the fields”. Studies have shown that a machine similar to a street sweeper could increase the life expectancy of the field, which is usually 8-10 years, with sections being replaced as needed.

The next phase of the renovation project is the soccer fields. The work will begin after the current soccer season is over.

Softball field

which will include turf, new

The purpose of the event was to inform the community of what services Marked For Life Ministries and the Hope Center provide. DeKalb County has a large homeless population that struggles with food, shelter, and clothing on a daily basis.

The Hope Center offers a place of HOPE and restoration for DeKalb County residents in need. The Hope Center is located at 2141 Gault Avenue N Fort Payne. The Center is locally funded and offers spiritual, emotional, and physical assistance to those in need.

Through Boom Days alone, Marked for Life Hope Center rescued over 500 pounds of food.

This is food that would typically go to waste but instead will feed the hungry in our community.

The Hope Center provides a vast array of services free of charge to those in need. Hygiene

products, shower services, monthly haircuts, clothing, food, and housing application assistance, along with laundry services are provided.. The Center

She Doesn’t See Herself As Handicapped

By Marla Ballard Reporter

NORTHEAST, ALA.

- In 1965 ReJeana

Leeth was born with spina bifida, a birth defect in which a developing baby’s spinal cord fails to develop properly. The condition can range from mild to severe and affects people differently depending on the location in the spinal column where the defect occurs. Life expectancy varies depending on severity of the condition and associated medical conditions, most people with spina bifida live to adulthood.

In the case of Leeth, she only reached a height of 4’2”, deals with clubfoot, walks on specially made crutches, has the use of one kidney, and has endured over 30 surgeries. However, none of this has seemed to stop her from accomplishing whatever she sets out to do. “I simply don’t think of myself as handicapped,” said Leeth. “I see myself as a walking-talking miracle.”

Leeth is married

and has given birth to two daughters now ages 23 and 29. “I was encouraged not to become pregnant and when I did, I was told I should have an abortion,” said Leeth. “The doctor was worried about my health, but I credit God and sheer determination for everything I have accomplished.”

When Leeth was born, doctors told her parents to let her do everything for herself that she could.

“Doctors told my parents if they did everything for me, I would struggle when they were gone,” said Leeth. “That was good advice because it gave me my independence.”

Leeth said she did chores around the house just like her other five siblings, she just learned how to

adjust things to allow her to accommodate her condition.

In her pre-adult years, Leeth wore leg braces with shoes attached to the braces, now she able to wear a child’s size-two shoe with a strap across the top of the foot without a leg brace. Anyone who reads Leeth’s resume would never guess she battles with an infirmity. She has picked cotton in the fields with her family, played volleyball, worked as a librarian, worked as a cashier in a restaurant, been in the radio business for decades as a DJ, and drives a car especially-equipped with hand controls. “I have even washed my own car,” said Leeth. “I just use a mop since I’m so

short.” Leeth said the Driver’s Ed teacher at her school asked her if she wanted to learn to drive. He made the extra effort to have hand controls installed and taught her to drive, much to the surprise of her parents.

Leeth is a graduate of Plainview High School and studied Office Management at Gadsden State Community College. She still works in the media industry and can also be found singing gospel music in front of crowds as large as 5,000 in number. Her group is called ReJeana Leeth and New Grace and have approximately 50 bookings each year. Leeth and her group travel all over the south to various events and places of worship to share their gospel tunes. She is also available for inspirational speaking. “I have done inspirational speaking at schools, women’s retreats, and for the Girl Scouts.” ReJeana Leeth and New Grace can be found on Facebook.

Expect Nighttime Bridge Closures

(Stoppages at Snodgrass anticipated to last about an hour)

HUNTSVILLE

— The Alabama Department of Transportation advises motorists that between 9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 23, and 5 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 24, there will be a series of closures of the Capt. John Snodgrass Bridge on Alabama 117 over the Tennessee River near Stevenson in Jackson County. The contractor will be replacing steel portal braces. The work will require at least four closures, each lasting up to an hour. There will be

breaks between closures to clear traffic and reposition equipment. If work is not completed on Friday night, subsequent closures will occur from 9 p.m. Saturday to 5 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 25. Due to the length of the closures, motorists are advised to use alternate routes. The $6.3 million project with contractor Cekra, Inc., includes replacement of some structural steel, concrete repairs, and painting to extend the lifespan of the truss bridge constructed in 1958.

Inaugural State Of Education Address

The Mountain Lakes Chamber of Commerce is hosting the Inaugural State of Education Address on Wednesday, October 19th at 7:30 a.m. at the Goose Pond Civic Center. This breakfast provides an opportunity for businesses and the community to hear from Superintendent Amy Childress of Scottsboro City Schools, Superintendent Jason Davidson of Jackson

County Schools and Dr. David Campbell, President of Northeast Alabama Community College. The community is invited to register and attend this important event. Tickets are available online or can be secured by contacting the Chamber, 256-259-5500. This breakfast event is $20 for Chamber members and $25 for non-Chamber members.

Inside The Statehouse

By Steve Flowers

Board of Education

September 21, 2022:

School board members are some of the most selfless public servants in Alabama. This accolade goes to the Alabama State Board of Education, and more specifically local school board members. These members are tasked with a very important mission but receive very little compensation for their time and efforts. They are indeed public servants. The Alabama State Board of Education is a nine member body that sets public education policy for K-12 schools. The governor is an ex-officio member of the board and the remaining eight members are elected to four-year terms from single member districts of approximately equal population. There is no limit to the number of terms a school

board member may serve. The seats are partisan driven. Currently, our state school board has six Republican members and two Democratic members.

Given the fact that members are elected, rather than appointed, it is somewhat surprising that our current eight members are so well-qualified and suited to be state school board members.

Dr. Wayne Reynolds, who represents District 8, best exemplifies this statement. He has a doctorate in education and has spent over four decades as an education administrator. He is retired and brings his experience and wisdom to the table. In his early years, Wayne was a decorated Vietnam War Veteran. He and his wife Carol reside in the Limestone/Madison area. Wayne is a Republican and was re-elected to his second four-year term earlier this year.

Marie Manning

has just been elected to District 6, which is a Republican district. She will begin her first term in January.

Prior to her recent election to the state school board, Marie served as Vice President of the St. Clair County Board of Education. During her stellar career in education, Marie was as a classroom teacher, viceprincipal, principal and superintendent.

Dr. Yvette Richardson represents District 4 and is a resident of Montgomery. Yvette is a Democrat and was reelected to another four-year term in the Democratic Primary. She has a doctorate degree from the University of Alabama and has had a distinguished career in education.

Tracie West is a Republican member of the board from District 2. She was reelected to a second four-year term in the Republican Primary. She hails from Auburn and, as would be expected

from this area, is well-qualified and versed in education knowledge and policy. Prior to being elected to the state school board, Tracie served as a member of the Auburn City Schools Board of Education, including serving as president of that board.

There are four members up for re-election in 2024, Jackie Ziegler, Stephanie Bell, Tonya Chestnut, and Belinda McRae, provided all four decide to seek another term.

Jackie Ziegler of Mobile is a Republican board member and represents District 1. She was first elected in 2016, and is an experienced and successful educator. She is a graduate of the University of South Alabama. She was a classroom teacher, then longtime principal in the Mobile County School System. She is married to State Auditor Jim Ziegler.

Stephanie Bell, who represents District 3, is by far the most veteran

member of the board

having first been elected in 1994 and re-elected to eight consecutive terms. At the end of her current term, she will have served over 30 years. She is a stellar member, an asset to the board, and hopefully will run again. Stephanie is a lifelong resident of Montgomery as is her husband.

Dr. Tonya Chestnut, a native of Selma, is a Democrat and represents District 5. She has a doctorate in education and is the former Dean of Alabama State University College of Visual and Performing Arts.

Belinda McRae of Hamilton is the Republican board member for District 7. She is in her first term. Belinda taught English and art for 25 years in the Marion County School System and served on the Marion County Board of Education before being elected to the

State School Board. Choosing the State Superintendent is probably the most important task of the Alabama State School Board and the Board made an excellent choice when they selected Dr. Eric Mackey as Alabama State Superintendent of Education.

Dr. Mackey is a former school superintendent and former Executive Director of the State School Superintendents Association.

Most of our former governors did not take their ex-officio role as seriously as Governor Kay Ivey. Governor Ivey has been a very active and dutiful member of the Alabama State School Board. In closing, allow me to not only give accolades to the state school board, but also a tip of the hat to all local school board members. See you next week.

Celebrate The Foundation Of America

Constitution Week: September 17-23

WASHINGTON, DC – The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution urges Americans to reflect on the United States Constitution during this month’s annual observance in honor this foundational document of national governance. The DAR initiated the observance in 1955, when the service organization petitioned the U.S. Congress to dedicate September 17–23 of each year to the commemoration of Constitution Week. Congress adopted

Complex

FROM PAGE 1

renovations will begin after soccer renovations are complete. The

the resolution, and on August 2, 1956, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed it into Public Law #915. The celebration’s goals are threefold: to encourage the study of the historical events that led to the framing of the Constitution in September 1787; to remind the public that the Constitution is the basis of America’s great heritage and the foundation for its way of life; and to emphasize U.S. citizens’ responsibility to protect, defend and preserve the U.S.

majority of the turf product is supposed to be available by the end of October. The biggest delay that is foreseen in the complex renovation is lighting

Constitution. “We are so proud DAR led the way in making Constitution Week an official commemoration and our members enthusiastically promote the celebration annually in communities across the country by erecting community displays, sponsoring municipal proclamations, ringing bells and staging programs to raise awareness of the Constitution’s tenets and importance,” said DAR President General Pamela Rouse Wright. “We

due to the supply chain being limited. After a discussion with Warner Athletic, the council voted to approve the contract for the existing sports complex renovations.

encourage all citizens to join us in celebrating this powerful document that is so important to American history and to reflect on the impact the Constitution has had on the lives of American citizens past and present.”

DAR has been the foremost advocate for the awareness, promotion and celebration of Constitution Week. The annual observance provides innumerable opportunities for educational

initiatives and community outreach, two mission areas of crucial importance to the National Society.

By fostering knowledge of, and appreciation for, the Constitution and the inalienable rights it affords to all Americans, DAR helps to keep alive the memory of the men and women who secured our nation’s foundational liberties.

September 24,

End of Summer

Benefit ConcertLocated at Veterans Field from 2 - 7pm. Proceeds will benefit Gus and Jennifer Hembree of Pisgah. Live music performances will include Muddy Water Band, Cody Cookston, Robert Lee, and Shomons. For more information contact Amanda Crawford at (256)687-0030 or Mathew Anderson at (256)244-2899

October 3,

Domestic Violence

Crisis Services

Annual Candlelight

Vigils - Fort Payne

will hold

annual Candlelight Vigil startig at 5:00PM at the DeKalb County Courthouse. Carla Wood will give a brief introduction of who we are and what services we offer and honor those who aren’t with us today. There will be a reading of a poem and realeasing of balloons.

October 8, Canyon Half Marathon - Fort Payne, ALJacksonville State University and the Little River Canyon Center is pleased to announce the 9th

annual half marathon set to be held on Saturday, October 8th, 2022.

Possibly one of the most scenic half marathons in the country, the certified course loops 13.1 miles on paved roads, starting and ending at the Little River Canyon Center.

Starting at 8:00 am, the first 5 miles of the run will follow the Little River Canyon National Preserve’s scenic and sometimes challenging rim of the canyon, as the remainder winds through gently rolling farm country including Randy

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

Helping

FROM PAGE 1

One of the largest patriotic women’s organizations in the world, DAR has also offers job

State ID and birth certificate assistance, and referrals for mental health and addiction treatment.

Marked for Life Ministries is staffed 95% by volunteers. If you would like to

190,000 members in approximately 3,000 chapters across the country and several foreign countries. DAR members promote historic preservation, education and patriotism via commemorative events, scholarships and educational initiatives, citizenship programs, service to veterans, meaningful community service and more. For additional information about DAR and its relevant mission, visit www. dar.org.

be a part of this ministry either by donating or volunteering, please visit iamMarkedFor Life.com/voulnteer to learn of the currently available opportunities.

Owen Drive and his famous Tennessee River Music Hereford and Angus cattle ranch. Randy and Kelly Owen are often on hand at the 6 and 8 mile water station pitching Fig Newtons, energy GU and drinks.

October 27,

Domestic Violence

Crisis Services

Annual Candlelight Vigils - Albertville DVCS will hold their annual Candlelight Vigil startig at 5:00PM at the DeKalb County Courthouse. Carla Wood will give a brief introduction of who we are and

what services we offer and honor those who aren’t with us today. There will be a reading of a poem and realeasing of balloons.

November 5, Canyon FestCanyon Fest is an

Mayor Rob Hammond Town of Mentone

Mayor Mike Key of Valley Head

Mayor Paul Cagle of Fyffe

Mayor Rodger Lingerfelt of Rainsville

LEGALS

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA

CASE NO.: CV-22900112

HIDDEN LAKE AT LOOKOUT MOUNTAIN HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC., PLAINTIFF, VS. LOOKOUT

MOUNTAIN RANCHCCC, LLC, DEFENDANT.

NOTICE OF FILING OF COMPLAINT TO LOOKOUT

MOUNTAIN RANCH – CCC, LLC, TINA

MCDONALD, THE REGISTERED AGENT FOR SERVICE OF PROCESS FOR LOOKOUT

MOUNTAIN RANCH – CCC, LLC, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PARTIES

Lookout Mountain Ranch – CCC, LLC and Tina McDonald, the registered agent for service of process for Lookout Mountain Ranch – CCC, LLC, take notice that on June 23, 2022 a Complaint was filed in the above-styled case concerning past due HOA dues,

late fees, reasonable attorney’s fee and Court costs. The Complaint alleges claims against Lookout Mountain Ranch – CCC, LLC including but not limited to: breach of the terms and conditions of the Declaration of Protective and Restrictive Covenants and Bylaws of the Hidden Lake at Lookout Mountain Subdivision, failure to pay HOA dues, late fees, and attorney fees, and demands monetary judgment upon the same. You are hereby notified to file a responsive pleading within thirty (30) days after the last publication of the Notice or on or about November 11, 2022. Said Notice being published on September 16, 2022; September 23, 2022; September 30, 2022 and October 7, 2022 in the Southern Torch, and on September 21, 2022; September 28, 2022; October 5, 2022 and October 12, 2022 in the Cherokee County Herald.

CIRCUIT CLERK OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA

Said notice to be published

September 16, 23, 30, & October 7

LEGALS

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: CAMILA CORONEL

CASE NO. 2022-346

NOTICE OF PROCEEDINGS NOTICE TO: FERNANDO GONZALEZ CASTILLO, FATHER

RE: Petition for Name Change Order for Camila Gonzalez

Please take notice that a Petition for minor child name change has been filed in said Court by Edith Margarita Coronel. Please be advised that if you intend to contest said Petition for Name Change you must file a written response with the attorney named below and with the Clerk of the Probate Court, 300 Grand Avenue SW, Suite 100, Fort Payne, AL 35967 as soon as possible but no later than 30 days from the last date of this publication.

Said notice to be published September 23, 30, & October 7

LEGALS

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: MARLON IAN GONZALEZ

CASE NO. 2022-345

NOTICE OF PROCEEDINGS

NOTICE TO: FERNANDO GONZALEZ, FATHER

RE: Petition for Name Change Order for Marlon lan Gonzalez

Please take notice that a Petition for minor child name change has been filed in said Court by Edith Margarita Coronel. Please be advised that if you intend to contest said Petition for Name Change you must file a written response with the attomey named below and with the Clerk of the Probate Court, 300 Grand Avenue SW, Suite 100, Fort Payne, AL 35967 as soon as possible but no later than 30 days from the last date of this publication.

Said notice to be published

September 23, 30, & October 7

LEGALS

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA EXECUTRIX’S NOTICE TO FILE CLAIMS

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JAMES RONALD JONES, DECEASED

CASE NO. 2022-342

Letters of Testamentary on the Estate of JAMES RONALD JONES, Deceased, having been granted to the undersigned on

the 19 day of Sept, 2022, by the 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

September 23, 30, & October 7

Budget

FROM PAGE 1

$25,000.00.

The Council also approved the purchase of a 2023 International Sanitation Truck from Ingram Equipment Company in the amount of $286,884.13. The Council also empowered the Mayor to Add the 2023 International to the Current Sanitation Loan at First Southern State Bank and to sign all necessary paperwork.

In other business, the Council approved:

• Approved

Michael Higgins to survey the property at the New Public Works Facility Location

• Tree Removal (New Public Works Facility Site)

$1000.00 to Michael’s Tree Service

• Clear Cut Forestry Mulching—

Clearing Brush (New Public Works Facility Site) up to $5,000

• Purchase (6) Chairs for $2400.00, Crowd Control Barrier for $700.00, and COVID Shield for $600.00 at the Annex.

• Security/Alarm System $634.00 from FTC to include a $15 monthly monitoring fee

• Purchase (10) 4 yd Dumpsters from Wastequip for $8,190.00

• Purchase (2) 8 yd Dumpsters from Wastequip for $2,878.00

• Concrete Repair—Waste Water Treatment Plant/ Boozer Construction $3800.00

• Purchase

Manhole Lids—Waste Water Treatment Plant/Shaddix Co. $4000.00

• Purchase UV Bulbs, Sleeves, and O-Rings—Waste Water Treatment Plant $7588.90

• Removed Old Pump/Installed New Pump and Replaced all Plumbing (North Church Street)— Living Water Services $5,190.00

• Posted a part-time position with the Parks and Rec Department The next regular meeting of the Rainsville Council will be on October 3, with a workshop beginning at 4:00 p.m. and the regular session at 4:30 p.m. in the City Annex.

Wilson

Rickey Don Johnson - 66, of Fort Payne, passed away Thursday, September 15, 2022 at his home. he family will receive friends Sunday evening at Wilson Funeral Home from 4 until 7 p.m. Hazel Igou Sauls - 98, of Fort Payne passed away September 17, 2022. Services will be held Monday, September 19, 2022. Visitation begins 11am – 1:30pm; Funeral Service at 2pm.

OBITUARIES

Ider died Saturday, September 17 at his residence. Funeral services are Monday at 3 PM CT at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel. Marjorie Cook - 79 of Ider died Sunday, September 18 at Dade Health and Rehab. Funeral services are Wednesday at 11 am ct at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel. Burial will follow.

Burt Kerby

Maxine Sloan - 89, of Valley Head, Alabama, passed away on Monday, September 19, 2022. Funeral: Wednesday, September 21, 2022 at 1:30 PM.

Cornerstone

Barbara Dean Finn

Pell - 88 of Trenton, GA, passed away

Thursday, September 15 at “Thrive at Brow Wood” after a long illness. services are

Saturday, September 17 at 11 AM ET.

LeJo Chamblee

Nix - 65 of Ider, passed away Saturday, September 17 at her

Ed Westmoreland - 58 of Pisgah, passed away on Friday, September 16, 2022 at his residence.

Graveside Service is Monday, September 19, 2022, at 2:00pm in New Home Cemetery with Dr. David Smith and Larry Beavers officiating.

Rainsville

Larry Junior Long - Palmetto passed away on September 14, 2022. A Celebration of Life service will be held at the Rock Springs Baptist Church in Sharpsburg, GA on Saturday November 12 at 1:00pm.

Genell (Tiny) Lindsey - 83 of Fort Payne, Al passed away on Friday, September 16, 2022. Funeral service will be held on Sunday, September 18, 2022 at 2:00PM.

Edith Day Glover - 87 of Rainsville, Alabama passed away on Friday, September 16, 2022. Funeral service is Sunday, September 18, 2022 at 4:00PM.

Kenneth Sayre - 71 of Rainsville, AL passed away on Saturday, September 17, 2022 at Grandview Medical Center. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, September 20, 2022 at 1PM at Rainsville Community Church with Pastor Cates Noles & Pastor Thomas Frost officiating. Burial will follow in Town Creek Cemetery with Rainsville Funeral Home, Inc., www. rainsvillefuneralhome. com. Visitation will be at Rainsville Funeral Home on Monday, September 19th from 4PM-8PM & at Rainsville Community Church on Tuesday, September 20th from 10AM-1PM. Survivors

Wife: Brenda Sayre of Rainsville, AL. Sons: Kevin Sayre and wife Whitney of Rainsville, AL. Jeff Sayre and wife Tracey of Rainsville, AL. Sister: Elaine Chester of Rainsville, AL. Grandchildren: Hunter Sayre, Jayden Sayre & Remington Sayre. Preceded in Death. Parents: Albert Sayre & Gladys Sayre.

Scottsboro

Frances M. Norrell - 84 of Fyffe, Alabama passed away Thursday, September 15, 2022. A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, September 17, 2022.

Barry Dean Ramsey - 61, of Scottsboro, passed away on Thursday, September 15, 2022. No services are planned at this time.

Thomas “Tom” Boyd Randall - 79, of Skyline, passed away on Thursday, September 15, 2022. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, September 24, 2022 at 11:00 a.m.

Dan Freemanpassed away on Saturday, September 17, 2022. Visitation is scheduled for Tuesday, September 20th from 12:00 until 2:00 p.m. at the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, with the service immediately following.

Donald Dwain Britt, Sr. - 82 of Scottsboro, Alabama passed away Sunday, September 18, 2022 at his home. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, September 21, 2022.

Luther Duncan; sons, Leslie and Randy Duncan; grandchildren, Nikki (Johnny) Lowery, Hannah Duncan, Luke (Tori) Duncan, Zach (Tiffany) Duncan, and Hunter Duncan; and her biggest joy, her great grandchildren, Waylon Lowery, Emmitt Lowery, Travis Duncan, Madelyn Duncan, and Wyatt Duncan. She was preceded in death by her mother, Vera Mae Moon; father, Isham Moon; sister, Mary Katherine Moon; mother-in-law, Ruth Duncan; and fatherin-law, Lewis Duncan. Selby was a longtime member of Woodville Church of God. She took joy in helping the church in any way possible-be it a bake sale, benefit singing, or taking a sick church member a plate of food. She enjoyed telling the world about Jesus and of the home that she had waiting for her. She was dedicated to her husband, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She would go above and beyond to make sure her family was taken care of. Shelby will be greatly missed by her family, friends and loved ones. We take comfort in knowing that she is rejoicing in Heaven.

Visitation will be 5-8 p.m. Wednesday, September 21, 2022 at Scottsboro Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, September 22, 2022

at Scottsboro Funeral Home with Bro. Anthony Payton officiating. Burial will follow in Mt. Olive Cemetery. The family will accept flowers or donations may be made to the Woodville Church of God.

Stanley Leon Shores - 67 of Dawson, passed away Wednesday in Gadasden Regional Medical Center. Family will receive friends Saturday September 17, 2022 from 4pm -8pm.

Christopher Scott “Chris” Mullins - 47 of Collinsville, passed away Friday, September 16, 2022. Funeral Services will be held at 2pm on Tuesday, September 20.

Mary Ann Hand - 73 of Henagar, passed away Sunday, September 18, 2022. Per Ms. Hand’s request, no services are planned at this time.

Homer Clifford Webb - 70, of Pisgah passed away on Tuesday, September 20, 2022. A memorial service will be held at 11am Saturday, September 24, 2022 from the W.T. l with Bro. Scott Webb officiating.

Shelby Jean Duncan - of Woodville, Alabama went to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus on Monday, September 19, 2022. We were blessed with 71 years with her on this Earth. She leaves behind her husband of 55 years,

W.T. Wilson

Football Finals for September 16, 2022

Collinsville 37, Sand Rock 20 Fyffe 54, Section 0 NSM 54, Whitesburg Christian 28 Sylvania 44, Geraldine 21 Pisgah 42, Ider 10 Sardis 36, Crossville 14 Plainview 28, Glencoe 7

Valley Head 35, Coosa Christian 33 North Jackson 21, St John Paul 14 Cornerstone 63, Pineview Christian 46 Arab 28, Scottsboro 7 Woodville 58, Vina 26

The Comeback Kids

By Marla Jones Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

GADSDEN, ALA.--The undefeated Valley Head Tigers (4-0, 2-0 Class 1A, Region 7) defeated the Coosa Christian Conquerors, 35-33 on Friday night.

The Conquerors scored first with 8:31 remaining in the first quarter on a 2-yard scamper into the endzone. The point after kick was good, to give Coosa Christian the early 7-0 lead. Hunter Robinson answered for Valley Head with a 4-yard dash into the endzone with 2:28 remaining in the opening quarter. The extra point attempt by Ethan Smith was good to tie the game 7-7. Coosa Christian scored with

2:14 remaining in the first, on a 55-yard touchdown. The point after kick was good, to take the 14-7 lead over the Valley Head Tigers. Coosa Christian scored with :32 remaining in the first half on a 4-yard sneak into the endzone. The PAT attempt was good to go into intermission with the 21-7 advantage. With 9:27 remaining in the third quarter, Hernan Moreno ran in from 1- yard out to score for Valley Head. The PAT failed, making the score 21-13. Coosa answered back with a 17-yard touchdown.

The PAT failed for the Conquerors, making the score 27-13. Eian Bain stampeded down the field for 75-yards for the Valley Head touchdown. The

Tigers went for two but were stopped by Coosa Christian, making the score 27-19.

Eian Bain scored on a 3-yard run for Valley Head, with 6:43 remaining in the game. The two-point conversion by Hernan Moreno was good, to tie the game 27-27. Coosa answered with a 5-yard touchdown with 3:14 remaining in the game. The point after kick was blocked by the Valley Head Tigers but gave the Conquerors the 33-27 lead. Hunter Robinson returned the kickoff 92-yards for the Tiger touchdown. The two-point conversion by Eian Bain, gave the Tigers the 35-33 win over Coosa Christian.

The Valley Head Tigers will host the Ider Hornets on Friday night.

Bears Score First Win of Season

By Marla Jones Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

RAINSVILLE, Ala.-- The Plainview Bears Homecoming was a little sweeter as they scored their first win of the season over the Glencoe Yellow Jackets, 28-7 on Friday night.

The Bears’ first possession of the night resulted in a fumble. Glencoe was forced to punt on both of their possessions in the first quarter. Plainview ended the first quarter after a 13-play, 89-yard drive. With 8:20

remaining in the first half, the Bears scored on a 33-yard run by Andrew Hall. With 6.7 seconds remaining in the second quarter, Trey Rutledge connected with an 18-yard pass to Dylan McCullough for the score. The extra point attempt was good, to give the Bears the 14-0 advantage going into the half.

The third quarter was a back and forth between the teams with neither time making it into the endzone.

McCullough sailed into the endzone, on a 5-yard run off right

tackle. The PAT was good for Plainview to take the 21-0 lead, with 5:22 remaining in the game. McCullough scored his third touchdown of the night, with a 31-yard gallop into the endzone. The PAT was good to take the 28-0 lead with 4:08 remaining in the game. Glencoe scored with 17.4 seconds remaining in the game, with a quarterback sneak from a yard out, to make the final 28-7.

The Plainview Bears will host the Sylvania Rams, in a regional rivalry, on Friday.

Devils Shutout the Lions

By Marla Jones Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

FYFFE, Ala.-- The No. 1-ranked Fyffe Red Devils (4-0, 3-0 in Class 2A Region 7) defeated the Section Lions, 54-0 on Friday night.

The Red Devils wasted no time scoring one of their six first-quarter touchdowns. Brodie Hicks scored a 16-yard touchdown, less than a minute into the game. The kick by Yahir Balcazar was good, making the score 7-0. Logan Anderson ran in from 5-yards out to add another touchdown. The kick by Balcazar gave the

Red Devils the 14-0 advantage with 7:45 remaining in the first quarter. Blake Dobbins made a 10-yard pass connection to Ryder Gibson for the score. The PAT was good, to give the Red Devils the 21-0 lead. Gibson cashed in on another touchdown from 16-yards out. Balcazar’s kick gave the Red Devils the 28-0 lead over the Lions.

Anderson galloped in from 15-yards to take the 34-0 lead. Simon Hicks got in on the scoring frenzy with a 32-yard stampede into the endzone, to end the first quarter with a 40-0 advantage over the Section Lions. In the second

quarter, Hunter Machen ran in from 2-yards out for the Red Devil touchdown. The extra point attempt by Jesse Martin was good, to take the 47-0 lead over the Lions. With 6:20 remaining in the second quarter, Caleb Mitchell scored the last touchdown of the night on a 22-yard run. The kick by Martin made the final for the Homecoming game, 54-0.

Brodie Hicks led the Red Devils with 64 yards rushing. Logan Anderson had 50 yards for the night. Fyffe had 281 yards of offense to Section’s 34 for the night.

Photo by Cheryl Boydston | Southern Torch

Team of the Week Sylvania Rams

By Roger Scott Sports Reporter roger@southerntorch.com

GERALDINE, Ala.

-- Sylvania earned an important 41-24 win over Geraldine Friday night at Coolidge Isbell Field.

The Rams’ defense forced multiple turnovers and used its offense to keep the Bulldogs at bay in the 3A, Region 6 battle.

“On the whole, I was pleased with our effort, despite the

Mann on its opening drive, and Sylvania’s defense pressured Bulldog quarterback Jaxon Colvin on a third down to hold Geraldine to a Moses Garcia field goal. With 1:26 left in the first, Sylvania led 6-3.

Geraldine’s defense forced a Sylvania punt early in the second quarter. Colvin then found Mann on a wheel route for a 66-yard score, allowing Geraldine to grab its only lead of

Sylvania defensive back Griffin Haygood tipped a Colvin pass that Jonah Gurley caught for the interception. Parham then took a short pass and rumbled to the Geraldine 4-yard line. Braiden Thomas capped the scoring drive, and the Rams held a 20-10 lead with 3:00 left in the half.

Vann believes the defense was key to the Rams’ win.

“Defensively, we played a good game. We made Geraldine drive the ball down the field [throughout the game], even though we had a couple of bad plays where we got beat deep. We played hard,” Vann said.

In the second half,

Hall cut across the field and returned the opening kick to the Sylvania 18-yard line. Mann ran another touchdown with 10:53 in the third quarter. The PAT was good, and Geraldine closed the score to 20-17.

After the kickoff, Smith was injured while carrying the ball.

Sophomore Griffin Turner entered the game and engineered a scoring drive that ended with a Parham

left in the third quarter on another short Mann touchdown run.

After a Sylvania fumble in the early fourth quarter, the Bulldogs missed chances to score on Colvin passes to the end zone and turned the ball over on downs with 7:26 left in the game. Thomas then found a hole for a 48-yard touchdown with just over 5:00 left in the game. Sylvania’s

Collinsville Makes History With Win

By Marla Jones Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

COLLINSVILLE

– The Collinsville Panthers defeated the Sand Rock Wildcats, 37-20, in a Class 2A, Region 7 matchup on Friday.

With the win, Ernie Willingham became the winningest coach in Collinsville’s history.

Willingham has 86 wins in his fourteen seasons at Collinsville.

After a scoreless first quarter, Keaton

DeBoard scored twice in the second quarter for the Collinsville Panthers. Once, with 8:35 remaining, and again with 4:49 remaining to give the Panthers a 12-0 lead going into the half.

Sand Rock scored in the third quarter, to make the score 12-7.

At the end of the third quarter Collinsville, DeBoard scored with a 55-yard touchdown run to give the Panthers the 18-7 advantage.

Sand Rock

answered back with a 21-yard touchdown run. The Wildcats went for two but were stopped by the Panthers, making the score 18-13 with 11:20 remaining in the game.

The Panthers attacked with three consecutive touchdowns: A 20-yard run by DeBoard, a 55-yard run by Mason McAteer and a 1-yard dash into the end zone by Trevor Terrell, to make the score 37-13.

With less than a minute remaining in

the game, Sand Rock made a 14-yard touchdown connection, to make the final score 37-20.

Keaton DeBoard led the Collinsville Panthers with 192 yards on 20 carries and scored four of the Panther touchdowns. He also had two interceptions for the night.

McAteer had 158 yards on eight carries and a touchdown.

Collinsville will travel to take on Gaston on Friday.

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