ST Vol 9 No 1

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

FORT PAYNE, Ala.--The Alabama Alcohol Beverage Control Board (ABC) suspended the privilege of selling alcoholic beverages to The Stockade Pub and Eatery effective January 4th, 2023 until further notice. According to an ABC spokesperson, that privilege has been restored.

The Stockade is located at 212 Gault Avenue North, Fort Payne and has been in business since August 2022. Recently, The Stockade Pub has been the subject of controversy in downtown Fort Payne because of their hosting of a Drag Queen show recently. The promotion of the show online drew positive and negative

Court Approval for Food City

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

FORT PAYNE, Ala.--

After nearly a year of dispute, Fort Payne will officially be getting a Food City.

A Public hearing, which is required under Amendment 772, to make sure all avenues of the incentive package were legally followed, was held on Thursday, December 29, at the DeKalb Courthouse. Judge

Claude E. Hundley III,

Madison County, presided.

of

The Memorandum of Understanding and Amendment 772, which was approved by a 3-2 vote of the Fort Payne City Council, states that the City of Fort Payne will give Marathon a total of 3.1 Million to locate at a property known as the South Y in Fort Payne. Fort Payne City will pay $1.2 million upon the

By Marla Jones

obtain a  permit to carry a concealed handgun or to carry one in a car, and went into effect.

Rep. Shane Stringer, a Republican from Mobile County, along with Sen. Gerald Allen, RTuscaloosa, sponsored

reactions from locals. A sign posted on the front door of the business cited ABC regulation 20-x-2.03 (5) as the reason for closure.

Ala. Admin Code r. 20-X-2.03(5) states: (5)

When a licensee has been cited for a violation, the licensee may elect to waive a hearing before the Hearing Commission and/or the ABC Board and enter a plea of guilty to such violation. If a fine is imposed upon said guilty plea, the licensee shall remit the full amount thereof to the ABC Board by cashier’s or certified check or money order within seven (7) days after the entry of such guilty plea or, in the event responsible vendor mitigation has been sought, then within seven (7) days after notification the bill.

Alabama is an “open carry” state meaning that it was legal to carry a handgun if uncovered. The permit, until now, only applied if the gun was not visible, such as under a shirt, in a purse, or in a vehicle.

Alabama now joins twenty-one other states that have a constitutionalcarry law in place. The passage received objections from several organizations, including The Alabama Sheriffs Association, the Association of School Resource Officers, and the Association of County Commissioners. Sheriffs across Alabama stated the requirement for a permit and a background check was a safety feature for law enforcement and the public alike.

Southern Torch reached out to DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden for his opinion on House Bill 272 and the effects that it would have on his office.

“First and foremost I

STOP BY FOR THE BEST DEALS IN DEKALB COUNTY

WWW.BOBBYLEDBETTER.COM (256)844-2210

Inmate Dies in Custody

Manitou Cave Presentation at NACC

Emeritus by the Board of Trustees. He has published over 100 scholarly works, with a great deal of focus on the caves of France, as well as those of the Cumberland Plateau and Appalachian Mountains.

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

The man, whose identity has not been released, at press time, died early Tuesday morning, according to the Jackson County Sherrif’s office. Foul play is not suspected.

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) will handle the investigation and is looking into the incident as more details become available.

Knight named to Troy University Chancellor’s List

TROY, AL (01/04/2023)--

Dominique Knight of Scottsboro, AL has been named to the Chancellor’s List at Troy University for the Fall Semester/ Term 2 of the 2022-2023 academic year.

The Chancellor’s List honors full-time undergraduate students who are registered for at least 12 semester hours and who earn a grade point

average of 4.0. Troy University is a public, historic, international university with 22,500 students and 154,000 alumni. Students choose TROY for its quality academic programs, reasonable costs

and availability of financial aid, outstanding faculty, and flexible in-class and online class offerings. Students on the Troy, Ala. campus enjoy a traditional college experience, while adult students are the centers of attention at campuses in Dothan, Montgomery and Phenix City, Ala., as well as at locations around the world and online.

JACKSON COUNTY, Ala.--

University of Tennessee Emeritus Professor and Distinguished Professor of Science

Dr. Jan Simek will give a presentation at Northeast Alabama Community College at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 19, 2023, regarding cave inscriptions in Manitou Cave in Fort Payne. The lecture

will be held in the small auditorium of the William M. Beck Fine Arts Center.

Since coming to the University of Tennessee in 1984, Dr. Simek has served as Head of the Anthropology Department. From 2009 to 2011, he served as the 24th President of the University of Tennessee and was named President

In 2015 Dr. Simek said of Manitou, “The cave is an incredible place, and we will learn more and more as time goes on. The cave is a very important place from the point of view of Cherokee history and culture.” This event is hosted by NACC’s Cecil B. Word Learning Resources Center. The doors will open at 9:30 a.m., and the event is open to the public. For more information regarding this event please contact Blake Wilhelm at wilhelmb@nacc.edu or 256-638-4418, ext. 2288.

Dunkin Donuts Coming to Town

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

SCOTTSBORO, ALA.-- At Tuesday’s meeting of the

Scottsboro Planning Commission, a site plan for the new Dunkin Doughnuts was

approved.

The approved site is located between Marco’s Pizza and Family Savings Credit Union on John T. Reid Parkway.

Inside The Statehouse

By Steve Flowers

Richard

Shelby

walked out of the U.S. Senate this week after 36 years. Walking out with him is almost all of Alabama’s seniority and power in Washington.

Seniority equates into power in the Halls of Congress, especially in the Senate. National publications have illustrated the fact that Alabama has benefited more than all 50 states from federal earmarked funds due to one man, Richard Shelby.

It will be impossible to replace Shelby. His legacy will last for generations, especially in Huntsville, Birmingham, all defense facilities in Alabama, and the new docks he built in Mobile. There has been no senator that brought more federal dollars to their state, unless it was Robert Byrd of West Virginia. You would think that we would be what some say, “up the creek without a

paddle.” We are a state that depends on federal defense dollars, and we have zero seniority in the U.S. Senate. Our senior Senator, Tommy Tuberville, has two years seniority and our junior Senator, Katie Britt, has zero years. That probably makes us 50th in seniority in the senate.

However, I contend that our freshman senators, Tuberville and Britt, are the best and right choices for this time. First of all, they will work together as a team. They like each other and deeper than that, Tuberville’s people covertly and almost overtly campaigned for Katie Boyd Britt. She well knows that and appreciates it.

Primarily, Tuberville’s and Katie Britt’s personalities will prevail to Alabama’s advantage. They both have larger than life gregarious, vivacious, winning personalities and in a 100-member body, this is admired, respected,

and appreciated. You have some pretty big personalities and egos in that 100 member elite chamber.

Shelby has shared with me in past years that you can recognize the prima donnas and show horses, who are running for president, immediately. Then there are those that want to be a long term, effective workhorse senator for their state. The first group immediately starts looking for a TV camera to get in front of. The second group are finding their offices, making friends, building a solid staff and jockeying for committee assignments that help them be effective for their state.

Katie Britt Boyd will

be greeted and treated like a rockstar. She is young and looks even younger than she is. She is a very articulate and attractive media subject. However, if you know Katie, she will not be swayed by this allure from the national media. She is grounded and has already made inroads with the senate GOP establishment leadership and will be rewarded with surprisingly powerful committee assignments. She will settle in to being in Washington as a Senator for Alabama rather than a show horse. Tuberville is now our senior U.S. Senator. When he ran and won two years ago, most of

us thought it was a whim, something he wanted to do in his later years. When you first meet him, you can gather that he is a very patriotic fellow. He is doing this for the right reason. He truly wants to serve his country.

Tuberville, from the get-go, fell in love with politics. He campaigned.

Especially, one-on-one.

But, when he got to the senate, it has been like Katie bar the door.

Folks, he likes it and the other Republican senators like him. He has really fit in. He has the brightest, happiest contented smile on his face. He looks 10 years younger than his 68 years. He is always around his GOP senate buddies. He votes totally with the Republican caucus and does not seek fanfare.

He knows the golden rule of politics, “Your word is your bond,” and, “You dance with those who brung you.”

He knew the Alabama Farmers’ Federation (Alfa) was an integral

part of his election. His first allegiance was to gravitate to committees that could help Alabama farmers as well as Alabama military veterans. He has put together a good staff. It will not surprise me if Coach runs for another six year term in 2026.

The aforementioned Alfa Farmers’ Federation is the most important lobbying group in the state with our two U.S. Senators. Alfa early and ardently supported both Tommy Tuberville and Katie Boyd Britt. Their endorsement of Britt and Tuberville were pivotal and instrumental to their wins. Both know it.

Another young man named Paul Shashy was an integral part of both Britt’s and Tuberville’s campaigns.

We may be in better shape in the senate than some think. See you next week.

JACKSON CO., Alabama- A Jackson County inmate died while in custody.

More Than Popcorn At The Poppery If You Build It, They Will Come

and customers also like selecting the colors of their favorite sports team,” said Amy.

Marla Ballard

New shops and restaurants are attracting visitors to downtown Fort Payne.

The pleasant aromas that linger in the air are a mixture of restaurants and sweet treat shops, one of those shops belongs to Amy and Kevin Mackey.

Visitors to the downtown will find themselves following their nose to The Poppery on Main.

Since purchasing the store from the Miller’s, approximately one year ago, the Mackey’s have put their own mark on the business by adding new flavors of popcorn, other treats, and gifts.

Popcorn lovers will find so many options of flavors they will have to return over-and-over again to decide which savory or spicy flavor is their favorite. New customers will be surprised to find more than just popcorn is sold at the store.

Some of the nearly

50 unique popcorn flavors are; Guadalajara, grape, orange, birthday cake, white cheddar, salt & vinegar, peanut butter & jelly, cinnamon toast, smoked cheddar, spicey dill, garlic/ parmesan, Cajun, banana, Laffy-Taffy, and chocolate. All of the popcorn is made on-site. Customers may ask for a free sample, at the popcorn bar, to see if they like it before making a purchase.

The Poppery offers special labeling for parties, events, and businesses. “We’ve had Relators, insurance companies, banks, and other businesses use our treats with their logo added onto the packaging to advertise their businesses and attract new clientele,” said Amy. “Customers also like them for wedding, bridal, and baby showers.”

Another personalized feature is customized coloring of

Treats are not limited to popcorn. The Mackey’s said Frios Gourmet Pops are a huge hit. The store offers a variety of flavors including; cotton candy, salted caramel, cookies & cream, and blueberry cheesecake. Treats also consist of caramel apples, peanut butter and white chocolate covered apples, chocolate-covered Oreos, peanut clusters, turtles, and chocolate dipped pretzels.

The shop now has a selection of gifts such as; quilts, Grumpy Ole Goat hand-made soaps, gourmet candy, and Peaceful Porch candles.

Fun fact, the United States grows and consumes the most popcorn in the world. Americans cosume 16 billion quarts each year. This amount would fill the Empire State Building 18 times. Interestingly, popcorn is one of the only situations in which food is consumed as a result of an explosion.

Thursday, January 19, is National Popcorn Day, why not celebrate by discovering a new flavor.

The Poppery on Main is located at 220 Gault Ave. N. Phone: 256-979-1 POP (1767). Follow and order ahead by messaging on Facebook. Hours of operation; TuesdaySaturday 11:00 a.m.5:00 p.m.

By Marla Ballard Reporter

FORT PAYNE - For

five years Dustin and Dana Dobbins have been steadily making their most recent property purchase visitor friendly. There was no plan in place when they purchased the property to one day turn it into a public place for others to enjoy. It has turned out to be one of those “If you build it, they will come” situations.

The 3.5-acres are bordered by Bear Creek, a spring-fed stream. “I feel like God led me to this place,” said Dana. “When we first purchased the land there were no decent trails down to the creek, it has taken a lot of work to create footpaths that are easy to navigate. It is a constant struggle against the natural forces to keep things nice.”

The creek hosts several separate water features. Most of the creek bed is rock and the cascading water gently whispers tranquility as it softly snakes its way to small

waterfalls and a swimming hole. During higher water levels Dana said kayakers paddle past their place.

“It is a great place to visit all year long,” said Dana. “Each season has its own beauty. Many flowering trees and bushes line the creek and the varying levels of water throughout the year offer different opportunities for relaxation.”

To make the experience as pleasant and comfortable as possible there are chairs, picnic tables, hammocks, and a porch swing peppered throughout for guests to use. Dana places floats at the swimming hole which has a small, zero-entry beach. Also, provided are a fire pit, a child’s fishing pole, and corn hole game. Reservations may be for a couple of hours or the day. Location photography/filming is allowed with reservation and fee.

The layout of the land and creek allow for one group of

guests to have privacy from another group. Some guests choose the swing where they read or meditate. Lower levels host the sounds of rushing water and a swimming area. “When we rent out an area we don’t rent the same spot to anyone else,” said Dana. “We explain what area they may use based on their reservation.”

“It’s just too relaxing and beautiful to not share with others,” said Dana. “The pandemic really showed us how much people need a place to retreat to and find some peace, so we decided to share this peaceful place with others.”

For more information on pricing and reservations text 256-605-4009 or go online to Facebook @ CreekFalls/The Secret Place and use messenger to contact. Located at

S.E. Fort Payne. (Six minutes from downtown Fort Payne).

January 7, Camp Maranatha’s Frigid

5K - Trail Run & Polar Plunge. This fun, family-friendly event features a 5K trail run suited for beginners and seasoned runners alike, a 1-mile fun run for the kiddos, and an epic chance to plunge into icy cold Lake Guntersville.

The run times are 9:00-11 a.m. at Camp Maranatha, 1091 Jeffery Road Scottsboro, AL. Price is $25 before the event and $30 the day of the event.

Contact JoBeth Watts at (256)5744539 or (256) 4852049.

January 7,

Grand Re-opening - Grand Re-opening of Mountain Strong

January 10, DeKalb County Commission - The DeKalb County Commission will meet on January 10, beginning at 10 a.m. on the second floor in the DeKalb County Activities Building.

January 14, Republican Breakfast - The Republican Breakfast will be held at the Cattle Stampede in Fort Payne, beginning at 7:30a.m.

January 15, The Old Paths - The Old Paths will be in concert at Hodge Baptist Church located at 77 County Road 19, Dutton, Alabama, beginning at 6 p.m.

January 17, Fort Payne City Council - The Fort Payne City Council will hold their regularly scheduled meeting beginning at 12:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers.

January 19, City of Fort Payne Meeting - A Comprehensive Master Plan for the City of Fort Payne will be held at Little Ridge Intermediate School, beginning at

6 p.m.

January 19,

Early Bird Breakfast - Bridgeport State of the City Early Bird Breakfast beginning at 7:30 a.m at The Community Center located at 411 Alabama Avenue Bridgeport, AL

January 19, Annual Bo Bikes Bama - Registration opens for the 12th Annual Bo Bikes Bama, at www. bobikesbama.com which will be held on April 23, 2023. The cost is $90 for a 60mile ride and $70 for a 20-mile ride. A $60 at-home option will also be available.

EXECUTOR’S NOTICE TO FILE CLAIMS IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ANNIE MARIE TUCKER, DECEASED

CASE NO.: 2023-02

Letters of Testamentary on the Estate of ANNIE MARIE TUCKER, Deceased, having been granted to the undersigned on the 20th day of December, 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 January 6, 13, & 20

Court

FROM PAGE 1

beginning of excavation. Another million will be paid if Food City opens its doors for the operation of business within 12 months. The final payment of $900,000 will be due upon the one-year mark of opening.

Those who testified in court for the proposed Food City were: Fort Payne City Clerk Robert “Andy” Parker and Fort Payne City Councilman Phillip Smith.

Parker took the stand to clarify that the legal debt limit for the City of Fort Payne was 15.9 million. The Memorandum of Understanding would in no way put the City of Fort Payne in excess of its legal limit.

Parker and Councilmember Phillip Smith both said the incentive would actually save the City a proposed 3.6 Million over previous incentives that were offered.

Smith stated that many other businesses were waiting to see if Food City would be coming to Fort Payne before committing to building locations. These businesses include Buffalo Wild Wings, Ulta, TJ Maxx, and Hobby Lobby.

Those who were against were Melanie Miller, Dawn Nelson, and Brandy Pecaut. Most expressed

their fear that the new store would hurt existing retailers and that the City could use the money to help “prosper what we already have”.

Melaine Miller expressed her concerns with the City paying to improve personal property and the effects that raising the flood zone would have on other properties. After review, Hundley’s ruled that “no taxpayer or citizen of the City offered evidence in opposition to the Plaintiff’s Petition.”

Carry

FROM PAGE 1

support the 2nd amendment right. The right to protect you, your family, and your property should be supported by all Sheriffs across the entire Country not just the Great State of Alabama” stated DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden.

‘The issue that will come into play with the Constitutional Carry is the lack of education that was put out explaining the laws behind it. I’ve tried pushing as much needed info out as I could via radio and social media.”

An issue of the House 272, or  Constitutional Carry Bill, that most are uninformed on, is that it is not recognized in every state.

“The bottom line is if you plan to cross state lines with your firearm you STILL NEED a conceal carry permit” stated Welden. “Just because Alabama passed the constitutional carry doesn’t mean all other states allow it. It is specifically designed for the residence of their state”.

“It will be confusing for many citizens that’s why it has to be publicized on the jurisdictional effect of concealed carry. It will definitely make our job harder, if someone was carrying and didn’t have a permit and needed to be arrested it would give us (LEO’S) a way to prevent a possibly violent situation from happening. Now we simply can’t do that. So it definitely has pros and cons on both sides of the new constitutional carry law.” stated Welden. “It only hurts the public’s safety when things like this happen but we will continue to do what we do”.

Sheriff’s offices across the state benefited from the sale of gun permits. These funds helped in training and helped fund

parts of the School Resource Officer program.“As far as the financial effect it will play on ALL Sheriffs offices across the state it will be a devastating period. We utilized that funding for school safety, training, and needed equipment to do our job effectively” stated Sheriff

Nick Welden.

“We had just got to the point of SROs in every school, K9’s for school safety, public shooting range and safety/ self-defense courses, updated equipment for our officers to be top-notch protecting our children and advanced training programs we’ve never had at DCSO” continued Welden.  “It’s definitely gonna be tough moving forward without that funding and I’m really unsure of the impact it will play on our office futurewise. We have definitely leaned very hard on the DeKalb County Commission and the DeKalb County Board of Education to help with the missing funding and they have definitely helped a lot but I know it’s like everything sooner or later they will not have funding to spare. We just gotta pray hard and keep doing what’s right and the Lord will provide” stated Welden.

“There is currently a Grant process offered by the State to try to help with the loss we have suffered. It just takes time and during the waiting time, there are gonna be some tough financial times for our office no doubt” Welden concluded.

ABC

FROM PAGE 1

of the action of the mitigation committee. Failure to so remit said fine within the seven-day period shall subject the licensee to an automatic license suspension, commencing immediately without any appeal thereof, until such fine is paid to the Administrator and the licensee has received from the Administrator a letter of reinstatement of the license together with the license, itself.

Fort Payne City Clerk Robert A. Parker stated that he had been notified of the license suspension and was in contact with the Alabama Beverage Control Board to see what steps would be taken by the City of Fort Payne.

“The licensee received a citation

FP Increases in Sewer/ Sanitiation Tabled

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

Fort Payne, Ala.-- The Fort Payne City Council held their first meeting of 2023, on Tuesday, Janauary 3.

Ordinance 2023-02, which would amend sewer rates and Ordiance 2023-03, which would amend sanitation rates was tabled. The Council was required to vote, to susped the rules for immediate consideration.

Councilmembers

Phillip Smith and Lynn Brewer voted yes and Councilmembers John Smith and Johnny Eberhart voted no. The Ordinances will be brought back up at the next meeting of the Fort Payne City Council.

Ordinance 2023-01, which permits the Recreation Department, in consultation with the Mayor to implement various rates, rules, and regulations at facilities owned by the City of Fort Payne and under the supervision of the Fort Payne Parks and Recreation Department was passed.

Council member

from an ABC Licensing Agent in the Ft. Payne area and did not pay it in a timely manner which triggered the sign being placed on the establishment’s door earlier today” stated Daniel Dye, Public Information Officer for the ABC. “Soon after the sign was placed the owner paid the citation and is again licensed to sell alcoholic beverages.

The citation was for failure to keep records/receipts on the licensed premises [ABC Reg 20-X-6-.04(4)]. Again, this citation was paid today and the establishment is cleared to sell alcoholic beverages.”

Calls made to The Stockade were not answered, as of press time.

This is an ongoing story with more details to be added as they become available.

Lynn Brewer requested that the new rules be conveyed to the Council quickly so they would be able to inform Fort Payne citizens.

In new business, the Council: Rejected bids for the Police Department due to irregularities in the bid process.

Authorized the re-bidding of the Police Department renovation at such time as Curt O’Daniel, working in conjunction with Tinker Ma Architects, determines those irregularities have been resolved and the specifications “Cleaned Up”.

Announced a public meeting to inform contractors doing business within the City of changes brought about by the proposed adoption of new building and fire codes for Thursay, January 26 beginning at 4 p.m. in the Council Chambers. This meeting is to give Contractors the opportunity to express concerns and input on new codes.

“We are not up to code on our codes” stated Mayor Brian Bain. “Sone are these are non-negoitable.”

In the Mayors report, Mayor Brian Bain informed the

Council that around 6 acres of land, formerly known as the Carden property, was ready to transfer, to Gil Graham.

The Comprehensive Master Plan for the City of Fort Payne will be held on Janaury 19, at the Little Ridge Intermediate School, beginning at 6 p.m. All Fort Payne citizens are encouraged to attend.

Mayor Bain also encouraged the citizens of Fort Payne to help with litter. He stated that “litter is everywhere and worse than it has been in a while”. He asked that citizens and business owners “be mindful and that it was going to take everyone working together” to help to deal with this problem.

Bain also requested that all household garbage be placed in garbage bags before putting into garbage cans. The current ordinance states that this must be done.

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

The next meeting of the Fort Payne City Council will be held on Tuesday, January 17, beginning at 12:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers

Fort Payne Forward Public Meeting

Fort Payne Mayor Brian Baine and the City Council would like to invite everyone who lives and works in the city to the upcoming Public Meeting for our city’s comprehensive plan, “Fort Payne Forward.” The Comprehensive Plan is an action-oriented city-wide planning process to make Fort Payne a better place to Live, Work, and Play. It is a plan developed by our citizens for our citizens, which addresses a wide variety of issues, including land use, transportation, housing, recreation, and economic development.

The Public Meeting will be held on Thursday, January 19th, at 6 PM in the new Little Ridge Intermediate School (5200 Gault Ave N, Fort Payne, AL 35967).

At the meeting, citizens will be informed on the progress of the plan. Citizens will also be

asked to provide input into specifics about the future of our city. This is a public process, and the city wants as many citizens to attend the meeting on the 19th as possible. Additionally, residents have the opportunity to provide input via an online survey at Fort Payne FORWARD - 2022 Comprehensive Plan Survey (surveymonkey. com)

“We are looking forward to engaging all of Fort Payne’s citizens through events like this meeting on January 19th. Community input drives the overall development of the comprehensive plan and is vital to the success of the plan and its impact on the city. This is a chance for the community to share their values, vision, and hopes for the future of Fort Payne. We are excited to see all of our citizens at the meeting so that as we work together as a team, we can move Fort Payne Forward.” - Mayor Baine

Photo provided by James Day | Getty Images

Martha Miller Kean - 95, of Fort Payne, passed away Friday, December 30, 2022.

Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Monday at Wilson Funeral Home with Dr. Pat McFadden officiating. Burial will follow in Glenwood Cemetery.

Wilson Burt

Joyce Stone Clark - 73, of Fort Payne, Alabama, passed away on Friday, December 30, 2022 at DeKalb Regional Medical Center. Date of Funeral: Tuesday, January 3, 2023

Funeral at Burt ChapelFort Payne at 2:00 PM

Cornerstone

Leslee Shane

Kenemore - 51 of Bryant died Monday, December 26 at his residence. Services will be announced later by the family.

Doris Yvonne

Camp - 62 of Flat Rock died Monday, December 26 at CHI Memorial. No formal services are planned at this time.

Marsha Lynn Woods Taylor - 56 of Fort Payne(Dogtown) died Friday, December 30 at Gadsden Regional Medical

Center. A visitation will be Wednesday, January 4 from 3 to 6 PM CT with the funeral service at 6 PM.

Connie Melton Neighbors - 72 of Henagar died Saturday, December 31 at Shepard’s Cove Hospice. A Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, January 8 at 11 AM CT at Grace Baptist Church.

Crossville

Mary “Sue” Dunlap Bruce Davis92 of Albertville passed away Wednesday, December 28, 2022 at Marshall Medical Center South. Her funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Friday, December 30, 2022. Interment will follow at Kilpatrick Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5:30 until 8 Thursday evening.

Rainsville

Alex Brooks Hilyer - 40 of DeKalb County, AL passed away on Wednesday, December 28, 2022, A private service will be held at a later date.

LaDonna Williams - 47 passed away on Wednesday, December 28, 2022. A celebration of life service will be held at a later date.

Charlie Mack Goggans - 73 of Rainsville, AL passed away on Friday, December 30, 2022. Funeral service will be held on Monday, January 2, 2023 at 2PM at Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Gary Haymon officiating. Burial will follow in Rainsville Memorial Park.

Anna Whitfield Tilley - 89 of Sylvania passed away on Saturday, December 31, 2022 at her residence. Funeral service is Monday, January 2, 2023 at 12PM in Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow.

Ruby Newsome88, of Woodville, passed away on Monday, December 26, 2022. Funeral services will be held on Friday, December 30, 2022 at 12 noon.

Donald Frank Thomas - 73, of Scottsboro, passed away on Tuesday, December 27, 2022, at his home, surrounded by his family. Funeral services will be held on Friday, December 30, 2022 at 2:00pm.

Johnnie Frances Gross ColemanFuneral services will be held on Sunday, January 1, 2023 at 3:00 p.m. at First United Methodist Church with Dr. Steven Screws officiating.

Warren Clayton Gray - 65, of Limrock, AL, passed away on Wednesday, December 28, 2022. A graveside

service will be held on Sunday, January 1, 2023, at Peters Cove Cemetery at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. J.L. Colquitt officiating.

Daisy Jeffery Shell - 92 passed away Wednesday, December 28, 2022. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Monday, January 2, 2023 at Scottsboro Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Goosepond Cemetery.

Jared Alan Huston - 55, of Scottsboro, AL, passed away on Saturday, December 31, 2022.

Chadwick (Chad)

Lee Matthews - 45, of Scottsboro, AL, passed away on Sunday, January 1, 2023. A graveside service will be held on Wed, January 4, 2023 at Cedar Hill at 12 noon.

Georgia Ann Jones Adams “Granny” - 86, of Scottsboro, AL, passed away on Sunday, January 1, 2023.

James “Junior” Lawson Byrd - 81, of Scottsboro, AL, passed away on Monday, January 2, 2023. The Funeral Service will be Thursday January 5, 2023 at 11:00am.

Holland Eugene Ramsey - 86 of Fyffe, passed away Friday, December 30, 2022. Funeral services will be held at 12pm on Thursday, January 5, 2023.

Cheryl Rene Bankert - 72, of Fyffe passed away on Friday, December 30, 2022. Arrangements

by W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel.

Virginia Smith

Allen - 78, of Crossville passed away on Friday, December 30, 2022. Funeral services are set for 12 noon Monday, January 2, 2023.

Evelyn Charlene

Bolding Ellis - 80 of Fort Payne, passed away Saturday, December 31, 2022. A memorial service will be held at 6pm on Thursday, January 5, 2023.

Delfino Reza Vela - 17 of Crossville, passed away Sunday, January 1, 2023.

Visitation will be held from 10am-4pm on Saturday, January 7, 2023.

Charles Wayne

Gilbreath - 85 of Hayden, passed away Sunday, January 1, 2023. Funeral services will be held at 1pm on Wednesday, January 4, 2023 at W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with burial to follow.

Dennis Paul Watkins - 75 of Franklin, TN (formerly of Rainsville), passed away Sunday, January 1, 2023. Funeral services will be held at 3pm on Saturday, January 7, 2023.

Hody Buford

Childress - 80 of Geraldine passed away on Sunday,

January 1, 2023. Funeral services are set for 2pm Thursday, January 5, 2023. William Harold Fricks - 71 of Section, passed away Monday, January 2, 2023. Funeral services will be held at 3pm on Wednesday, January 4, 2023.

Ponders

Marty I. Fanburg - It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Marty Fanburg of Ft. Payne, AL and Chattanooga, TN. He was a beloved and respected member of his communities, an adventurer, mountain climber, engineer who helped develop and build the 1st 707 for Boeing, Boy Scout leader, teller of wonderful stories and a brilliant businessman. He is survived by his loving niece Pamela Kalis (Mark) Berkowitz, adored great-nephew and great-niece Seth (Annie) Parker and Edelyn Parker (Don) Frye and many loving friends and neighbors. Services will be held at B’nai Zion Cemetery in Chattanooga, TN on Thursday, December 29 at 1:00 pm.

Donations in Marty’s name may be made to Jewish Federation of Greater Chattanooga or your favorite charity.

New Year’s Accident Claims Life

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

BOAZ, Ala.- A DeKalb County teen was killed Sunday in a two-vehicle collision in Marshall County.

According to Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), the 17-year-old victim from Crossville, was involved in a two-vehicle collision about 9:15 p.m. The 2020 Dodge Charger, that he was in, collided

with a 2011 Dodge Ram. The car struck a ditch and caught fire. The crash occurred on Alabama 168 near the 15 mile marker, about five miles east of Boaz.

The teen was pronounced dead at the scene. ALEA has not released information on the condition of the driver of the other vehicle.

Head-On Collision Claims Life

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

COLLINSVILLE, Ala.-- A St. Clair County man lost his life when he was invloved in a head-on collision in DeKalb County on Wednesday afternoon.

The Alabama Law

Enforcement Agency (ALEA) stated that Alex B. Hilyer, 40, of Ashville, was traveling in a 2021 Ford Escape when he collided with a 2020 Toyota 4Runner on Alabama 176, about 2 miles east of Collinsville. The accident occured at 2:25 p.m.

on Wednesday, which temporarily blocked traffic on the highway.

The driver and passenger of the Toyota were injured and taken to Gadsden Regional Medical Center for treatment.

Troopers with ALEA continue to investigate the crash.

Britt Sworn in to Senate

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

FORT PAYNE, ALA.-- On December 29, 2022, Dr. Blake Isbell walked out of the door at Isbel Medical Group for the last time.

For a combined 106 years, a Dr. Isbell has been on hand to deliver babies in DeKalb County. Isbell Clinic opened it’s practice over 62 years ago. Dr. Blake Isbell was a doctor to many at Isbell Clinic for 39 ½ years. The office of Isbell Medical Group OB/Gyn said it best with their tribute to Dr. Blake. “He is a legend. Where do you begin? What are the appropriate words? Dr. Blake Isbell worked his last GYN clinic schedule at Isbell Medical Group last week and walked down the hall and out the back door to his welldeserved retirement. So many mixed emotions today!! While we are

obviously so happy he is able to retire and spend his days with big plans or no plans; travel around the world or around the town with his best girl; enjoy his kids and grandkids and his family as much as he wants.... even though he deserves days and days of rest and relaxing--we are going to miss him terribly at the office!!

An emotional day for all of us, many tears were shed. At the end of the day we all just kinda stood around trying to put off that last walk down the hall!

We don’t have to tell any of you what a great man he is, if you know him you know. He has impacted so many lives in this community with his excellent patient care that is second to none, his brilliant mind and always the go-to for anything we can’t remember, and his huge heart for the Lord that spilled over into

anyone he came in contact with.

He has been our center and our compass with a quiet, steady, confident leadership that he learned from the very best before him, quietly and humbly keeping the integrity and morality bar very high. Dr. Blake has worked hard to continue the great legacy of IMG, and continue it will.

He is a nut and so much fun to be around and work with. His “hilarious” jokes will certainly be missed lol!  He does not like the attention, he did not want a big deal made, in fact, his words were “I just want to ride off quietly into the sunset”. We will let you ride, but not without a very inadequate “Thank you- We Love You, and oh how we will miss you, Dr. Blake!” Southern Torch wishes the best for Doctor Blake Isbell and “ride off into the sunset, just not too far”.

Keeping Alabama’s Priorities in Mind

From the Desk of Senator Tuberville

I spent many years running onto football fields on gamedays across the country and can say nothing beats the feeling of a new season.

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

WASHINGTON, D.C.- Katie Britt, of Enterprise, was sworn in on Tuesday, as the first woman elected to the position of Senator from Alabama. Britt is now the youngest Republican woman to serve in the U.S. Senate.

She filled the seat previously held by Richard Shelby, R-Ala.

Britt served on Shelby’s staff as press secretary and chief of staff.

She will serve along side Sen.Tommy Tuberville, R-Alabama.

During her campaign, Britt focused on education, inflation and national borders.

Britt has stated that she feels that Alabama needs representation on the Agriculture, Appropriations and Armed Forces

Committees. No committtee assignments have been made but Britt has expressed her desire to serve on the Banking, Commerce, Small Business or Intelligence committees.

Britt will split her time between Washington, D.C. and Alabama as she feels this is the best for her family.

Clean Up in Henagar

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

HENAGAR, ALA.-- The City of Henagar will have free dumpsters for several weeks in 2023. This service is only provided for residents who live inside the city limits of Henagar.

The dates for the

2023 Free Dumpster

Weeks in Henagar, are as follows: January 2-7, April 3-8, July 3-8, October 2-7.

The dumpsters are located at the Public Works Building on Lake Drive in Henagar. They will be open during these free weeks Monday-Friday from 8:00am-5:00pm. Saturdays during

8:00am-5:00pm.

The City asks that you do not place any trash outside the dumpsters.

Dumpsters will also be available throughout the year.

The dumpsters wil be open Monday-Friday from 6:00am-2:30pm. The cost will be $20 for a pick-up truck load.

As seasons came and went, I continually worked with my team and coaching staff to learn from previous successes and failures. Reflecting on the past allowed us to find room for growth and build the foundation to shape future goals. This strategy doesn’t just apply to football, but to government as well. As we enter the 118th Congress and start a new season in the United States Senate, I am proud of our efforts so far, but know there’s more to be done for the people of Alabama.

In the previous Congress, I focused on bolstering our national security, empowering veterans, supporting rural communities, countering Chinese aggression, and advocating for students.

Keeping Americans safe is the federal government’s top priority — a responsibility I take seriously. Safety and peace are only secured through strength, and a prepared, lethal military is the best way to protect freedom at home and promote stability abroad. I fought to uphold Alabama’s longstanding history of military excellence, honoring the men and women who play a vital role in our national security.

As a member of

the Senate Armed Services Committee, I participated in drafting the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Congress has passed this bill annually for over six decades to fund our military. In this year’s NDAA, we secured dozens of wins for Alabama, which are summarized in the first edition of Coach Tuberville’s Defense Playbook. The NDAA increases the overall military budget $45 billion more than President Biden’s request, secures a 4.6% pay raise for service members and Department of Defense civilian workers, and rescinds the Biden administration’s COVID vaccine mandate for service members.

In October, my first piece of standalone legislation became law after passing both chambers of Congress without opposition.

The Supporting Families of the Fallen Act increased veterans’ and service members’ maximum life insurance benefit amounts for the first time since 2005. As a member of the Senate Veteran Affairs’ Committee, I will always fight for our country’s veterans and military-connected community, which includes advocating for legislation to increase timely access to quality care and slash bureaucratic red tape at the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Throughout my first term, I also championed family farmers and producers, working hand-in-hand with Alabama’s rural communities. I led the effort to make Daylight

Saving Time permanent and supported the peanut capital of the world by reducing trade barriers and expanding export market access for peanut exports to the European Union. Serving on the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee, I worked to protect our rural farming communities by cutting burdensome regulations for local governments, fighting the Biden administration’s overreaching Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) regulations, and standing up for Alabama’s agricultural producers.

As an educator for more than 40 years, I have seen firsthand the benefit of a quality education. I also understand that parents and local governments know their children and communities better than the federal government. As part of my work on the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, I advocated for school choice and echoed its importance during National School Choice Week.

Devil Duo Chosen as ASWA Finalists

By Marla Jones

Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

FYFFE, Ala.--

Two Fyffe football players have been chosen for the Class 2A Alabama Sports Writers Association (ASWA) finalist honors.

Sophomore

Running Back, Logan Anderson was named as the Class 2A Alabama Sports Writers Association Back of the Year Finalist.

Sophomore

Offensive Lineman, Tucker WIlks was named as the Class 2A Alabama Sports Writers Association Lineman of the Year. Winners will be announced at a banquet at the Montgomery Renaissance on Thursday, January 12. The ASWA will also award Mr. Football and the Super All-State Team at the banquet. The finalists from each class are as follows:

7A Back DB Anquon Fegans, Thompson QB Peyton Floyd, Hewitt-Trussville

WR Ean Nation, Auburn

7A Lineman OL Bradyn Joiner, Auburn DL Hunter Osborne, Hewitt-Trussville DL Peter Woods, Thompson

6A Back RB Cole Gamble, Mountain Brook WR Ryan WIlliams, Saraland ATH Earl Woods, Hueytown

6A Lineman DL Kelby Collins,

Gardendale

OL Wilkin Formby, Northridge

DL Jaquavious Russaw, CarverMontgomery

5A Back

RB Ashton Ashford, Ramsay

RB Cole Blaylock, UMS-Wright

RB Eli Frost, Fairview

5A Lineman

DL Zion Grady, Charles Henderson

DL Kavion Henderson, Leeds

DL Yhonzae Pierre, Eufaula

4A Back RB Fluff Bothwell, Oneonta ATH Jacob Cornejo, Cherokee Co. QB Andrew Hunter, Randolph

4A Lineman LB Jashawn Cooper, Montgomery Academy DL Tae Diamond, Cherokee Co. OL Ryqueze McElderry, Anniston

3A Back

WR Ian Foster, Pike

Co,

QB Jack Hayes, Piedmont DB Damian

Thompson, Mars Hill

Bible

3A Lineman

DL Sterling Dixson, Mobile Christian

OL Koby Keenum, Mars Hill Bible

DL Trent Thomas, Cottage Hill

2A Back

RB Logan Anderson, Fyffe

ATH Kamore Harris, B.B. Comer

QB Ty’Jarian

Williams, Aliceville

2A Lineman

DL Keldric Faulk, Highland Home

OL Jamichael Pugh, Clarke Co.

OL Tucker Wilks, Fyffe

1A Back

ATH Dalon Edmunds, Millry

RB Alvin Henderson, Elba

QB Brayden

Huebner, Leroy

1A Lineman

DL Bryston Dixon, Leroy

DL Malcolm Pugh, Leroy

LB Korbit

Sommerville, Pickens Co.

AISA Back

RB George Meyers, Lee-Scott

RB Cecil Perry, Patrician

WR Trace Strickland, Clarke Prep

AISA Lineman

OL Jack Gibson, Patrician

OL Jake Owens, Chambers Academy

OL Walker Whitehead, Jackson Academy

Latest Basketball Scores

Varsity

Varsity

Hope 60, Plainview 40 North Sand Mountain 71, Valley Head 42

Decatur Heritage Christian 65, Fort Payne 63 Plainview 52, John Paul II 43

Ider Wins Smoky Mountain Winter Classic-Championship

The Ider Lady Hornets claimed the Smoky Mountain Winter Classic-Championship with a 46-45 win over Union County, Kentucky on December 30. Makinley Traylor made 7 of 8 free-throws in the fourth quarter to help the Lady Hornets claim the championship. Cambree Chapman added 12 points. Traylor and Chapaman scored all points during the nail-biter fourth quarter.

Collinsville Senior Varsity Lady Panther, Tyla Tatum scored her 2,000 point in varsity competition against rival Gaylesville on December 29. Congratulations, Tyla!!

Cheryl Boydston | Southern Torch