ST Vol 8 No 51

By Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

Co., Ala-- Dekalb and Jackson Counties are bracing for the arctic weather that is forecasted to enter the region over the Christmas holidays.

Extremely cold Arctic air will move into North Alabama beginning Thursday night. The rain that is ahead of the Arctic front may transition to snow. Light snow accumulations of up to a half inch are possible. Isolated areas in higher elevations may see up to one inch of snow. Black ice is a concern on Friday as moisture on roads may freeze.

On Tuesday, December 20, DeKalb

County Commission President, Ricky Harcrow along with members of the DeKalb Emergency Management Agency

Rainsville to install Security Cameras

(EMA) held a press conference. The conference was held to discuss the threats to life and property, and

possible impacts from the forecasted winter weather extremes on Thursday night and extending through the Christmas

Commission President

Thursday, December 22 through December 26, due to the possibility winter weather.

Warming centers will be open across DeKalb County during this winter event. If you need information regarding the nearest warming center to you, call the DeKalb County Emergency Management Agency at (256) 845-8569.

“If you need help in the rural areas where this will take place, too, then you call this office,” DeKalb County Commission President

Seeks New

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

Rainsville, Ala.-- (Full

video

on Southern Torch Facebook Page) The Rainsville City Council held its regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, December 19.

The Council approved a quote from Farmers Telephone Cooperative (FTC) for (3) Outdoor Video Cameras & Equipment in the amount of $11,461.00. These

cameras will be installed at the Tom Bevel Enrichment Center (inside and outside), the red light at Plainview High School and at the new Chavies Bridge.

These cameras are not for speed detection but for an additional safety measure for citizens. These cameras, including the ones previously installed at the Hwy 35/Hwy 75 intersection, will be

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

FORT PAYNE, Ala.-- (Full Video on Southern Torch Facebook)

The Fort Payne City Council held its regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, December 2o. Mayor Brian Bain informed the Council that the contract between the City and Mahogany Properties, which represents Whataburger, had been terminated. The property (the former

Jefferson’s location) which was previously slated for the chain restaurant, will not accommodate their building.

Mayor Bain stated that Whataburger still wants to locate in Fort Payne and is actively looking for other properties.

Overland Development is currently looking at the property for another type of retail business and the contract will be forwarded to City Attorney, Rocky Watson for review.

A community meeting

to discuss the Comprehensive Master Plan for the City of Fort Payne will be held at the Little Ridge Intermediate School, on January 19, 2023. Refreshments will be served at 5:30 p.m. and Citizens will have the opportunity to tour the facility. The meeting will begin at 6:oo p.m. and should last approximately one hour.

“We want to know where we will be as a City, twenty years from now”

(Montgomery, Ala)

- The Alabama Department of Transportation is expecting higher-thanaverage traffic volumes on Alabama’s roadways this holiday season. For the safety of the traveling public, as well as construction and maintenance workers, there will be no temporary lane closures on interstate highways from Friday, Dec. 23, at 6 a.m. to Sunday, Jan. 1, at 11:59 p.m.

ALDOT urges those traveling during the Christmas and New Year’s holidays to help eliminate traffic fatalities by driving safely.

“We are all eager to spend time with friends and family during the holiday season, and ALDOT wants all travelers to make it to their destinations safely,” said Allison Green, Drive Safe Alabama Coordinator with ALDOT. “If you plan to head out to festivities,

make sure you plan a sober ride home.

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can wreck your holiday and have serious consequences that continue long past the new year.”

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 11,654 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes in 2020 that involved an alcohol-impaired driver.

ALDOT Holiday Travel Tips: Buckle Up –Surviving a crash is much more likely when wearing a seatbelt. More than 55 percent of people dying in crashes on Alabama roadways are not wearing a seatbelt.

Plan a Sober Ride – Remember that it is never okay to drink and drive. Designate a sober driver or plan to use a ride service, or call a taxi or a sober friend to get home safely.

Capt. John Snodgrass Bridge on Alabama 117 over the Tennessee River near Stevenson in Jackson County will fully reopen for winter.

Contractor Cekra, Inc. anticipates removing all traffic control by sometime in the afternoon of Wednesday, Dec. 21.

The two-lane bridge has been reduced to one lane since January when a $6.3 million rehabilitation project began. The rehabilitation was initially expected to

various repairs or replacement of structural steel and concrete to extend the lifespan of the 64-year-old truss bridge.

There will be a brief period in spring 2023, weather permitting, when the bridge will need to be reduced to one lane for the final major work item, the placement of an overlay on the bridge deck. This is anticipated to take about two weeks, after which the bridge will again be fully opened.

SCOTTSBORO, ALA.--A Scottsboro man has been indicted on six counts, including sex abuse of a child by a Jackson County grand jury.

Authorities began investigating, 83-year-old Herman Clevy McIntire after receiving a report of sexual abuse in their jurisdiction.

After the findings of the investigation were presented to the Jackson County grand jury, an indictment warrant was issued for McIntire’s arrest.

The warrant

• First-degree sodomy

• Sexual abuse of a child less than 12 years old

• Forced sexual contact (2 counts)

• Indecent exposure McIntire was arrested on Wednesday, December 14. On Friday, December 16, he remained in the Jackson County Jail with a bond of $176,000.

Scottsboro Shop with a Cop

Inside The Statehouse

By Steve Flowers

Alabama has a treasured history of famous political families. Many of the legacies are of father and son dynasties.

The most prominent being the famous and powerful Bankheads of Jasper, which included a U.S. Senator, John Hollis Bankhead, and sons, Senator John H. Bankhead and Speaker of the U.S. House William Bankhead. There is a long line of fathers and sons who both served in the state senate. We have had one father-son governor legacy. James E. “Big Jim” Folsom, was governor in the 1940’s and 1950’s. His son, Jim Folsom, Jr., was governor in the 1990’s. Little Jim was literally born in the Governor’s Mansion during his daddy, Big Jim’s first term as governor, 1946-1950.

During this generation there are two brothers from Baldwin County, who

have made history. John and Steve McMillan have left a mark on Alabama political history.

Decades from now, people will look at these twin brothers and say they have contributed a lot to Alabama. Yes, John and Steve are twins, both born on July 6, 1941.

Steve and John McMillan have deep family roots in Baldwin County. Before Alabama was even a state their ancestors settled in the Stockton Community near Bay Minette, which is where they call home. Their family is in the timber business.

Steve represented his home area in the Alabama House of Representatives for 43 years. The Baldwin County we see today as the fastest growing suburban county in the state was not the same Baldwin County they were born into 81 years ago. It was a large, sparsely populated, agricultural county. As fourth graders we

would read that it was the potato growing county of the state.

John remembers getting out of school for almost a month in the fall to help harvest potatoes when he was in high school.

John and Steve’s ancestors were not only the early leaders of Baldwin County but also of the state. Their great grandfather, John Murphy, was Governor of Alabama. John was named for him.

John M. McMillan, Sr., John and Steve’s father, was an outstanding civic and church leader and also served 30 years on the Baldwin County school board.

Our current John Murphy McMillan graduated from high

school in Bay Minette then went to Rhodes College in Memphis where he graduated with honors. John was serving as county commissioner when he was elected to the state legislature in 1974. He was reelected in 1978. However, two years later, Governor Fob James chose John to serve in Fob’s cabinet as Alabama’s Commissioner of Conservation and Natural Resources. It was under his watch that the state created the Alabama Trust Fund, a plan that saved all revenues from leases on offshore oil operations. This fund has grown from the original investment of just over $400 million

to a sum approaching $4 billion.

In 1985, John McMillan became the Chief Executive Officer of the Alabama Forestry Association. He served as head of that powerful statewide association for 20 years. In 2010, John was elected the 29th State Agriculture Commissioner. He was reelected, overwhelmingly in 2014. Thus, serving eight successful years from 2011-2019 in this very important statewide office.

In 2018, he was elected Alabama State Treasurer. He served successfully in this post through late 2021, when he left to become the head of the newly created Cannabis Commission.

Steve McMillan, being John’s twin brother, had pretty much the same childhood as John. They grew up together in Stockton and worked on their uncle’s farm and family sawmill. Steve went on to Auburn University where he

graduated with honors. He came back home and started a real estate business, along with overseeing their family timberland.

When John became Conservation Director, Steve was elected to the House seat John vacated. Steve served in that seat for 43 years. Steve was quiet effective voice for his beloved Baldwin County. He passed away in April.

Steve was a very diligent and well prepared legislator. He was extremely conservative and was always on the side of the business community. He was dignified, but if you got to know him, very witty. He was not flamboyant and would seldom go to the well and speak. Yet, when he did, people listened. He exuded class and epitomized the term gentleman.

The McMillan brothers of Baldwin County have made their mark on Alabama Political history. See you next week.

The 1st Annual Scottsboro Police Department Shop with a Cop was a success! The Scottsboro Police Department wanted to give a special thanks to Scottsboro Municipal Court for their help with this event.

stated Mayor Brian Bain. Sam Griggs, of C.E.D. Mental Health, updated the Council on the activities of the organization.

The organization will host a Youth Prevention Conference on January 23, 2023, at the DeKalb County Schools Coliseum. This conference will be held for tenth graders across the County and will inform the students of the dangers of poor choices through substance abuse. Timothy Alexander will be the guest speaker.

Griggs asked the Council for any help

ARCTIC

FROM PAGE 1

Ricky Harcrow said. “We are here to help you, and our people are ready to do whatever needs to be done.

Marked For Life Ministries has partnered up with the City of Fort Payne and the DeKalb County Emergency Management Agency to provide a warming station for those in need.

The emergency warming station will be available beginning Friday afternoon and will offer food and warmth to anyone who needs it.

Logan LeGrande,

that they could provide. The Council approved a $1,000 donation for the Conference.

The following Ordinances were tabled by the Council until a meeting could be held between Building Contractors and the City.

• Ordinance 2022-07, adoption of the 2015 Building Codes and Ordinance 2022-08, adoption of the 2021 Fire Codes

The Council approved Resolution 2022-42 which accepts the lowest qualified bid for the installation of the “Lower Leg” of the sewer rehab project per Ladd Environmental’s recommendation. The bid was

Executive Director of Marked For Life Ministries said they are happy to help out their neighbors during this time of need

‘We want people to know that we are here for them” said LeGrande. “No one should have to suffer through this cold weather alone, especially on a holiday weekend”.

To receive information, neighbors in need of shelter should contact the Marked For Life Ministries crisis line, at 888.789.4673.

Marked For Life is requesting the community to step up, as volunteers are greatly needed to staff the warming

Collinsville Drugs

“Caring for you like family”

awarded to Lambert Contractor, LLC in the amount of 8.3 million dollars.

In New Business, the Council:

• Authorized Clerk Parker to seek bids for a new “pool Pump” for the City swimming pool.

• Set a work session to discuss adjusting rates for sewer and sanitation and also adjusting recreation and facility fees.

The Council went into Executive Session to discuss potential contract litigation, with no action taken.

The next meeting of the Fort Payne City Council will be held on Tuesday, January 3, 2023, beginning at 12:30 p.m.

station.

“The biggest issue will be wind and possibility of trees getting into lines. Another concern is use of portable space heaters and overload of circuits” stated Fort Payne Improvement Authority General Manager, Mike Shirey.

“Fortunately due to Holiday many of the large industrial customers will be operating at significantly reduced loads, so we should have plenty of capacity. That being said there will still be possibility of isolated outages and crews will work to restore ASAP”.

New Owners, New Menu, New Restaurant

By Marla Ballard Reporter

FORT PAYNE –

Anyone in the vicinity of the second block of Gault Avenue on the south end of town might have their nose lead them to a new restaurant that opened the first week of this month. Little River Burgers & Brews doesn’t have their permanent signage yet, but they are open and serving up what they call “comfort food.” The business is located at 203 Gault Ave and owned by Kevin and Amy Mackey.

The Mackey’s have a long history of working in the food industry and have brought their combined experience to the tables of their customers.

The menu is the creation of the new proprietors and offers several items unique to the area. Kevin said, “We sell a ton of our ‘Smash Burgers.’” While chicken wings are on many restaurant menus the flavors of dill pickle and Jamaican jerk are not, but are served at the new eatery.

Another outstanding menu option are the four flavors of French fries. Customers may choose from Cajun, dill pickle, garlic parmesan, or traditional salted fries. Dessert lovers will be pleased to see the eight-ounce mason jar desserts featuring cheesecake, banana

pudding, and Oreo delight. While the new menu is a reflection of the new owners, it does offer a sandwich named “The Jimmy Wayne” in honor of the previous owner.

The family-oriented restaurant has a full bar with specialty drinks, some specialty drinks host a Frios Gourmet Pop, which is a rarely seen treat in a beverage.

Entertainment is also on the menu.

Thursday night is Karaoke night from 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday nights anywhere from one to four local musicians take the stage.

While the building previously housed a restaurant, changes to the interior décor have been made along with the addition of five more televisions. The restaurant seats fifty inside and the back deck adds extra

seating in pleasant weather conditions.

Kevin said the response from the public has been overwhelmingly good and at peak times the restaurant is full and so suggests calling ahead to reserve seating for large groups.

“We want to thank the public for receiving us so well,” said Kevin. “We couldn’t be happier with the reception we’ve received.” Kevin said at this time it is best if take-out orders are called-in between the hours of 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. due to the high volume of business during peak hours.

Phone – 256-2736157. Hours of operation are; Tuesday – Thursday 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Friday/ Saturday 11:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m. Follow on Facebook. Additional parking in rear of building in addition to the parking at the side of the building.

December

18, New Hope

Dinner and a Christmas Show -

We will present a wonderful evening of Good Food, Great Company, and Festive Christmas evening to get you in the Christmas spirit. New Hope Ministries. Highway 78 East Anniston, 36207. No charge for this event but there is limited seating.

December

25, Community

Christmas Dinner - The Fort Payne Community

Christmas Dinner in memory of Ronnie Warren will be

held on Sunday, December 25 from 10:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. (or until food runs out). The Community Dinner will be held at the Williams Avenue School lunchroom. The menu will include ham, dressing, corn, green beans with small potatoes, sweet potato casserole, roll, cranberry sauce dessert, and a drink.

December 25, Merry Christmas!

December 31, Hank’s Last Ride: The Music of Hank Williams Sr. - A 70th Anniversary

Celebration of the life & legacy of Hank Williams Sr. Fort Payne Opera House is proud to bring you a live performance of Hank Williams’ music and other classic country hits featuring the star of RFD-TV’s Midwest Country, David Church! Fort Payne Opera House 510 Gault Avenue North Fort Payne, AL 35967. Sat, Dec 31, 2022, 6:00 PM CST.

December 30, Stuart Douglas - The Stockade Pub and Eatery. 212 Gault Ave N, Fort Payne, AL

December 31, Paint a Christmas

Ornament - Kids

Christmas Crafting Event at Kinsley’s Creative Palette Paint Studio! Come and have some fun and make some memories with your own kiddos or grab your grandkids, nieces, and nephews! Reserve your spot to come and paint ornaments! Please make one reservation for EACH ornament being painted. ncluded in your ticket price: -sugar cookie decorating -hot chocolate bar -1 wooden ornament (to paint during the

December 31,

Après Ski Ya 2022: A Disco New Year’s Eve - Ski Ya Later, 2022! Rocket City’s one and only dive barn and the newest addition to Apollo Park, Jeff & Blues opens with a bang on December 31 with an Après Ski Disco hosted by Huntsville’s own Mixx

Madness, featuring Dray Tha Drummer, DJ Boots, DJ Ya Boi Boi and DJ Cee O.

Ring in the New Year in your ski gear with dancing, all-night drink specials, ice skating, light bites, a champagne toast and record drop at midnight, and more!

Tickets start at $40 in advance and $50 day-of, and include: Ice skating under the stars in the amphitheater bowl from 8 PM-11PM Light bites by Chef Marko of Southern Wagyu

Champagne toast for midnight record drop Jeff & Blues party favors

Dance floor with live DJs spinning from 8PM-1AM

CASE NO.:CV-22-900162

DAVID L. SMITH, as Executor of the Estate of James William Jordan, deceased, PLAINTIFF, VS. JO ELLEN OSBORNE JORDAN, DEFENDANT.

NOTICE OF FILING OF COMPLAINT TO JO ELLEN OSBORNE JORDAN

Jo Ellen Osborne Jordan, take notice that on September 2, 2022 a Complaint was filed in the above-styled case concerning the return of furniture (an antique music press/ correspondence cabinet) and other personal property of James William Jordan. You are hereby notified to file a responsive pleading within thirty (30) days after the last publication of the Notice or on or about February 3, 2023.

Behind The Scenes At Unclaimed Baggage

By Marla Ballard Reporter

SCOTTSBORO – In 1970 a great deal of marked events were in the news; The Beatles dissolved their band, NASA’s Apollo 13 Moon Mission returned to Earth successfully after an explosion, and the first jumbo-jet, the Boeing 747, made its debut commercial flight. That was also the same year that Hugo Doyle Owens borrowed a 1965 Chevy pickup truck, got a loan for $300, and drove to Washington D.C. to purchase his first load of unclaimed baggage from Trailways Bus line.

Owens set up card tables in a rented house to sell the contents he hauled home. The venture was so successful that he left his full-time job and started the internationally recognized business now known as the Unclaimed Baggage Center.

secrets. The store has been featured in The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times, as well as showcased on TODAY and the Travel Channel. The business hosts more than one million visitors annually from every state and 40 countries.

fifty states on a 16-week tour. The replica of the original Chevy truck Owens used (nicknamed Hugo after the founder) was taken on the tour and currently creates a photo opportunity for visitors to the store.

of lost luggage,” said Sonni Hood, Public Relations Manager.

“Travelers would be wise to place identification inside their luggage so it is returned if lost.”

churches who give them to those in need.”

Hood also stated that eye glasses, balances on gift cards, and suitcases for children in need are donated to charities.

Unclaimed Baggage Mission Statement: “To redeem the lost, unclaimed, and rejected for the glory of God.”

Shoppers can look forward in 2023 to seeing a new exhibit of the peculiar items that have been found in the luggage over the years. “We have found some amazing and shocking things over the years,” said Hood.

“We have found a live rattlesnake, moose antlers, and a lot of taxidermy.” Also found was a wristwatch valued at $64,000, it was quickly purchased for a bargain by a watch collector.

CIRCUIT CLERK OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA

Said notice to be published December 9, 16, 23, & 30

CAMERAS

FROM PAGE 1

The center became notably recognized in 1995 when Oprah Winfrey featured the store as one of the best-kept shopping

approved.

The Council passed Resolution 12-19-2022 (A) which approved a new rental agreement for the Tom Bevil Enrichment Center.

The new agreement is a per-day rental agreement with the following terms:

Non-Commercial (Up to 6 hours)

Whole Building- $300

Joe Bowman Room Only- $100

Non-Commercial (Full Day)

Whole Building-$500

Joe Bowman Room Only-$150 Commercial (Full Day)

Doyle’s entrepreneurial endeavors led him to landing contracts with major airlines, solidifying the businesses position as the country’s only lost luggage store.

Recently the business celebrated its 50th Anniversary by sending representatives to all

which is through First Southern State Bank, addressed the Council of installation of a portal to enable credit card payments for the Sanitation Department and Tom Bevil Center.

The company will furnish the equipment and only charge a one-time fee to set up for the City. Council member Brandon Freeman, requested that a machine be available for the Rainsville CIty Pool to aid in payments for pool rental. Woodard stated that would be available for a one-time fee of $50.

Bank for the City credit card needs.

The Council accepted a bid from Wilks and Sons for the Sewer Extension easement from Church Ave to Richards Street in the amount of $7,600

In other business, the Council:

• Hired Matthew Green as Attorney for the Zoning Board Board of Adjustments and Planning Commission

Employees restock the 50,000 square foot facility with up to 7,000 new items daily. Two years ago, unclaimedbaggage. com added online shopping with up to 5,000 new items weekly. “The travel industry takes 90 days to identify owners of lost luggage, it should be known that the airlines find 99.5 percent of the owners located to show all travel to the state interstate system, and will be monitored by the Rainsville City Police Department.

A power pole will have to be installed at Chavies Bridge for the camera, which the Council

Whole Building-$600

Jonathan Woodard, of Bank Card of America,

The Council approved the use of Bank Card of America, through First Southern State

DeKalb Animal Hospital

Rent Space

Hood continued, “What most customers do not realize is we sell one-third, recycle one-third, and donate one-third of our purchased goods. While we do donate across the globe, we are especially aware of those in need in our own backyard. For example, when we acquire wheelchairs, walkers, crutches and the like and they are donated to the Lions Club and local

Cam for Code

Enforcement from Visual Labs in the amount of $760

• Approved the resignation of Mercedes Rugard from the Rainsville Police Department effective 12-7-22

• Approved the purchase of a tv for the Rainsville Fire Department for classes in the amount of $748

The store offers southern hospitality with free Wi-Fi and a café with light fare.

“We are a destination where customers can find items with reduced prices up to 80 percent off suggested retail price,” said Hood.

Unclaimed Baggage is located at 509 W. Willow St. Phone: 256-259-1525. Follow on Facebook and Instagram.

the amount of $1,1000 to be paid out of the Police fund from Rainsville Glass

• Approved a quote from Berry & Dunn for a floor mat and shredder for th Annex in the amount of $219.40

• Approved a Quote from FTC for (5) Document Scanners at the Annex in the amount of $3,250.00

• Passed Resolution 12-192022 (B) which Surplused a 2006 Chevrolet Truck/ Public Works Department with mileage over 300,000

• Purchased a Smart Phone Body

• Hired Cody Green—Part-Time Firefighter, effective 12-08-2022 in the amount of $12.48 per hour

• Accepted Kennedi Traylor’s Resignation, effective 12-27-2022

• Approved the replacement of door in Chief Edmondson’s Office to a full glass door in

• Approved the Purchase of a Bucket for Skid Steer $2500.00

Due to the holidays, the next meeting of the Rainsville City Council will be changed to Wednesday, January 4, with a work session beginning at 4 p.m.

Man Arrested for Breaking and Entering Vehicle

FORT PAYNE, Ala.

— On December 13th 2022, patrol deputies with DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office and officers with Crossville Police Department responded to an address on county road 370 in the Kilpatrick community for a report of a male subject possibly attempting to steal a vehicle. Once deputies arrived on scene, they found David Michael Holcomb (47 of Albertville) intoxicated and sitting inside a truck on the property with damage to the interior of the truck.

After a brief struggle, Holcomb was removed from the vehicle and placed under arrest. Holcomb was charged with Public Lewdness, Resisting Arrest, Criminal Trespass,

Criminal Mischief, and Public Intoxication.

After an investigation by Dekalb County

Criminal Investigators, Holcomb was also charged with Breaking and Entering a Motor Vehicle.

DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden said of the incident:

“We would like to thank Crossville Police Department for their assistance at the scene. The quick response by both agencies helped to bring this case to a close.”

“God Bless!”

Concluded Sheriff Welden.

Wilson Burt

Dazie Wilson

Akers - 99, of Fort Payne, Alabama, passed away Tuesday, December 13, 2022. She was born September 3. Funeral services will be 1 p.m. on Sunday, December 18. Nora Betty Jane Brooks - 87, of Leesburg, passed away Wednesday, December 14, 2022. Graveside services will be 4 p.m. Friday at Glenwood Cemetery with Rev. Rickey Clanton officiating. Neta Williams DiNardi - 70, of Fort Payne, passed away Sunday, December 18, 2022. She was born October 29, 1952 in Bigsby, Oklahoma to the late Howard and Wanda Fields Williams. She is a member of the Muskogee Creek Nation. Mrs. DiNardi retired after 42 years of service to the Fort Payne City School System. She was a friend to all. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Thursday at Wilson Funeral Home with Pastor Dan Howard and her brother, Reverend James Williams officiating. Burial will follow in Mountain View Memory Gardens. The family will receive friends on Wednesday from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m.

Lula Marie Goan88, of Mentone, Alabama, passed away on Sunday, December 18, 2022. She was born on March 19, 1934 in Friendswood, Texas to Calvin & Lula Feazle. Marie worked as a Lab Tech before her retirement. Memorial Service on Wednesday, January 4, 2023 at 11am.

Cornerstone

Luther Street Walker - born September 20th 1942 to L.D & Elna Walker. He passed away on December 17th 2022. Luther grew up in Holly Pond Alabama. He married Sandra Frasier on September 15th 1963. They lived in the Brashier’s Chapel Community in Arab for over 50 years.

Kerby

Jerry Phillips - 74 of Henagar, passed away on Thursday, December 15, 2022, at his residence. Funeral service is Sunday, December 18, 2022, at 2:00 pm Family will receive friends Saturday, December 17th with Bro. Mike Crawford and Bro. Terry Phillips officiating.

Rainsville

Carolyn Thompson

- 60 of Fyffe passed away on Wednesday, December 14, 2022.

Funeral service will be Saturday, December 17, 2022 at 2:00PM in Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Earnest Corbitt officiating. Burial will follow in Rainsville Memorial Park.

Billy Rayburn Hicks - 92 of Rainsville passed away on Wednesday, December 14, 2022. Graveside service will be Saturday, December 17, 2022 at 2:00PM at Kirk Memorial Gardens with Bro. Terry Turner officiating.

Denice Bates - 61 of Henagar passed away on Wednesday, December 14, 2022. Memorial service will be Sunday, December 18, 2022 at 2:00PM in Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel.

Jessica Hodges

- 41 of Rainsville passed away on Friday, December 16, 2022 at Gadsden Regional Medical Center. Funeral service is Monday, December 19, 2022 at 11:00 am Plainview Baptist Church with Pastor Rayford Brown, Bro. Mike York, and Bro. Charles Hamm officiating. Burial will follow in adjoining cemetery.

Wilda R. Posey92 of Rainbow City, AL passed away on Sunday, December 18,

Wednesday,

2022 at

at Rainsville

Home

with Bro. Ricky Harcrow officiating. Burial will follow in Town Creek Cemetery.

Scottsboro

Terry D. Shelton67, born January 2, 1955, of Scottsboro, passed away on Monday, December 12, 2022. Funeral services will be held on Friday, December 16, 2022 at 2:00 pm at Center Point Baptist Church.

William “Jr.” Hinkles - of Hollywood, passed away at Erlanger Hospital, on Friday, December 16, 2022, surrounded by his loving family. Funeral services will be held on Monday, December 19, 2022 at 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow.

Charles William Clements - 60 of Scottsboro, Alabama passed away Sunday, December 18, 2022 at TriStar Skyline Medical Center in Nashville. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, December 22, 2022.

Rickie Melvin Martin - 67 of Fyffe, passed away Tuesday, December 13, 2022. Memorial services will be held at 2pm on Friday, December 16, 2022.

Mary Lee Harrell - 77 of Boaz passed away Wednesday, December 14, 2022 in Marshall Medical

Center South. FUNERAL 3pmWednesday Dec. 21, 2022 W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel.

Michael Wayne King - 59 of Pine Ridge passed away Thursday December 15, 2022. Visitation will be Sunday December 18, 2022 from 1pm - 3 pm. Funeral Service will be held at 3pm from W.T. Wilson Chapel.

Janice Loretta Lybrand Pope - 80 of Dawson, passed away Thursday, December 15, 2022. Funeral services will be held at 1pm on Saturday, December 17, 2022 from the graveside of Liberty Cemetery at McKestes. The family will receive friends from 10am-12:30pm on Saturday, December 17, 2022 at W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel. Officiating is Bro. Ricky Smith.

Tommy D. Jones81 of Crossville, passed away Thursday, December 15, 2022.

Funeral services will be held at 12pm on Saturday, December 17, 2022 at with burial to follow in Mt. High Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5pm-8pm on Friday, December 16.

William Vincent “Vince” Slaton - 67 of Albertville passed away Friday, Dec. 16,

2022 at his residence. FUNERAL 2pmMonday Dec. 19, 2022 W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel

John Rickey Rains - 75 of Crossville, passed away Saturday, December 17, 2022.

The family will be having a memorial service at 2pm on Sunday, January 8, 2023 at Union Grove Baptist Church in Crossville.

Gregory Wayne Boggs - 62 of Glencoe, passed away Sunday, December 18, 2022.

The family will have a visitation only from 4pm-8pm on Wednesday, December 21, 2022 at W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel. The family requests that no flowers be sent.

Dennis Dean Carter - 70 of Fyffe, passed away Sunday, December 18, 2022. Funeral services will be held at 1pm on Wednesday, December 21, 2022 from the graveside of Kirk Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends from 10:30am-12:30pm on Wednesday, December 21, 2022 at W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel.

Joseph Clint Walker - 3 of Section, passed away Monday, December 19, 2022. The family will be having a memorial service at a later date.

W.T. Wilson

Class 2A All-Region Honors

Class 3A All-Region Honors

MVP-Brodie Hicks (Fyffe)

Offensive MVPLogan Anderson (Fyffe)

Co-Defensive MVP

- Tucker Wilks (Fyffe),

Caiden Hawkins (Pisgah)

Fyffe

Evan Chandler

Jake Wooden

Will Arnold

Hunter Machen

Owen Blackwell

Brody Blackwell

Simon Hicks

Yahir Balcazar (Honorable Mention)

Cade Underwood

Blake Dobbins

Ryder Gipson

Pisgah

Luke Gilbert- WR/DB

Mason Holcomb- QB

Jakob Kirby- WR/DB

Legion McCrary- RB

JD Martin-OL/LB

AJ Gant-OL

JJ Williams-OL/DL

Honorable Mention

Clay Williams-OL/DL

Caleb Green- OL/DL

Jett Jeffery-LB

Fox Tinker-DB

Grant Smith-DB/WR

Collinsville

Keaton DeBoard-ATH

Eli Griggs-LB

Mason McAteer-QB

Jordan Coker-DL

Gavin Lang-WR

Trey Smith-DE

Honorable Mention

Luis Ailon-K

Aiden Daniel-OL

North Sand Mountain

Levi Pettijohn

Kaden Moore

Landon Keller

Blake Blevins

Blake Hill

Honorable Mention

Nyle Poore

Cruz Yates

Lucas Steele

Kaden Gilley

Hank Farmer

Ider

Ben Smith RB/LB

Zion Finnerty-WR/DB

Honorable Mention

Brian Bass-LB

Austin Cross-WR

Dylan Grant-QB

Daniel Greeson-DB

Landon Traylor-OL

Section

Jaylan McCarver

JR Walker

Honorable Mention

Jed Sparks

Cameron Summerford

Dakota Pranger

Evan Hammon

ASWA Announces All-State Honors

By Marla Jones

Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

DEKALB AND JACKSON COUNTY, Ala.--The Alabama

Sports Writers Association (ASWA) released its 2022 All-State football teams on Sunday, December 18. DeKalb and Jackson County teams had 15 players that were selected for the honors.

The finalists for back and lineman of the year awards are tentatively planned for release on December 25, 2022.

Super All-State and Mr. Football winners will be named on January 12 at a banquet at the Montgomery Renaissance.

The Alabama Sports Writers

Association All-State football teams, honorable mentions of the year are as follows: Class 3A

FIRST-TEAM

ALL-STATE

Offense

RB: Braiden

Thomas, Sylvania, Sr., 6-2, 194

Defense

DL: Ashdon Cooley, Sylvania, Jr., 5-11, 202

OL: Jayse Cook, Geraldine, Jr., 6-4, 230

HONORABLE

MENTION

DB: Levi Brown, Plainview, Sr., 6-1, 175 Class 2A

FIRST-TEAM

ALL-STATE Offense

RB: Logan Anderson, Fyffe, So.,

5-11, 205

RB: Keaton

DeBoard, Collinsville, Sr., 6-0, 175

WR: Luke Gilbert, Pisgah, So., 6-0, 170

OL: Tucker Wilks, Fyffe, So., 6-0, 230

SECOND-TEAM

ALL-STATE

Offense

OL: Evan Chandler, Fyffe, Sr., 6-1, 205

OL: JD Martin, Pisgah, Jr., 6-0, 225

Defense

LB: Caiden Hawkins, Pisgah, Sr., 6-0, 170

LB: Benjamin Smith, Ider, Sr., 5-7, 175

HONORABLE

MENTION

RB: Brodie Hicks, Fyffe, Sr., 5-11, 190

Class 1A

SECOND-TEAM

ALL-STATE Offense

RB: Hunter Robinson, Valley Head, Sr., 5-11, 175

Athlete

Eian Bain, Valley Head, Sr., 5-8, 175

Sylvania

Ashdon

Leo

Ky

Travis

Josh

Aiden Parham, SO

Brant Kittle, SR

(Honorable Mention)

Aspen Cooley, JR

Jaxon Smith, JR

Jonah Gurley, JR

Will Gant, SO

Conner Andrade, FR

Geraldine

Carlos Mann, JR

Jaxon Colvin, JR

Caleb Hall, SR

Joe Garcia, SO

Kobe Hill, JR

Jayse Cook, JR

(Honorable Mention)

Austyn Banks, JR

Colin Wilks, SO

Mauricio Calderon, JR

Drew Freeman, SR

Cody Satterfield, SR

Plainview

Levi Brown, SR

Sam Crowell, SR

Dylan McCullough, SR

(Honorable Mention)

Andrew Hall, SR

Andrew Mays, SR

Corey Killian, SR

Grant Martin, SR

Brayden York, SR

Bo Bikes Bama

On his 60th birthday, Bo Jackson released the dates of his 12th annual charity ride for disaster recovery and preparedness. The Bo Bikes Bama annual ride will be held Saturday, April 23,, 2023 in Auburn,

Alabama. Registration and fundraising will open Thursday, Jan. 19, 2023, at bobikesbama.com. The cost to participate in 2023 is $90 for a 60-mile ride and $70 for a 20-mile ride. A $60 at-home option will also be available

for supporters unable to travel to Auburn. Jackson will also offer opportunities for non-cyclists to participate in 2023 including a private golf outing and VIP lunch on Friday, April 21, 2023. Organizers will post additional news and updates regarding 2023 events to bobikesbama.com, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Supporters can also sign up to receive updates by email at bobikesbama. com/email-signup. Additionally, on April 21, Bo will throw out the first pitch in Plainsmen Park to commemorate the start of the Bo Bikes Bama weekend and initiate the Auburn versus Mississippi State baseball game. Bo Bikes Bama supporters are welcome to cheer on Bo’s alma mater while showing support for the cause.

Basketball Recap

December 15- 19, 2022

Girls: Cedar Bluff 58, Woodville 50 North Jackson 35, Madison County 33

Pisgah 77, Geraldine 46 Skyline 71, Oakwood 18 (Skyline’s 50th Straight win in area play)

South Pittsburg 59, North Jackson 41 Skyline 54, North Jackson 26

Guntersville 59, Scottsboro 51 Sylvania 68, Pisgah 60 Skyline 57, Crossville 23

(Sand Mtn Tournament)

Fort Payne 66, Dade Co 50

Clay-Chalkville 51, Fort Payne 31

Fyffe 58, Gaston 24

Woodville 53, Valley

Head 49 Ramsay 50, Plainview 42

Boaz 59, Crossville 42

Boys:

Bluff

Class 2A All-Region MVP-Brodie Hicks (Fyffe)

Offensive Player of the Year. Braiden Thomas, Sylvana Cheryl Boydston | Southern Torch

Cheryl Boydston | Southern Torch

Photo by Kristy Schrader

Offensive Player of the Year- Braiden

Thomas RB, Sylvania

Cooley, JR

Kirby, JR

Shankles, JR

Owens, FR

Scott, SO

Photo provided by Trek Bikes

Letters to Santa

From Mrs. Alicia Wilbanks, Sylvania, 2nd Grade Class

S t ClausisComing to Town

From Mrs. Alicia Wilbanks, Sylvania, 2nd Grade Class