The Southern Torch — Volume 5, Issue 52

1411 Glenn Blvd SW, Fort Payne, AL 35967

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THE SOUTHERN TORCH / FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2019 / VOL. 5, NO. 52 / $1.00

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THIS WEEK IN SPORTS

THIS WEEK IN BUSINESS

THIS WEEK IN POLITICS

THIS WEEK IN COMMUNITY

• Winners of the Sand Mountain Tournament: the Plainview Varsity Boys & Pisgah Lady Eagles!

• See who's in the middle of our Spotlight! • Thank A Fireman

• Go Inside the Statehouse with Alabama Political Columnist, Steve Flowers

• Alabama Ranked 5th in Christmas Spirit • See what's going in our Upcoming Events!

It's His TOP STORIES OF 2019 Birthday! 6. Justice for 7. Contaminated • PART ONE THIS WEEK, PART TWO COMING NEXT WEEK! •

Amberly

Water in NE Alabama

By Marla Jones Managing Editor Published on March 19

By Megan Blansit ST Columnist This article was previously published in an earlier edition of Southern Torch. It is being published again by request.

The day many of us have anticipated is among us! Christmas day is only days away! If you’re anything like me, this is both exciting and slightly stressful. I absolutely love Christmas time and I absolutely love buying presents for people. Mix those two things together and you’ve got a broke girl who is sad that she can’t go out and buy loved ones MORE presents! There is

something so fulfilling, as well as fun in giving!

As a young girl I always dreamt of giving people vehicles as gifts, a Hummer to be exact (slightly humorous looking back at how I was so specific and how our taste changes.) To fast forward many many years, I am a broke graduate student working on a masters, with 2 jobs.

Maybe one day I will be making the “big bucks� and can make those childhood dreams a reality!

Sadly, as I have gotten older, I feel as though the

>> FAITH, P5

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COLLINSVILLE, Ala. — On Thursday, March 4, DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden announced the arrest of 33-year-old Christopher Madison for capital murder in the case of 11-year-old Amberly Alexis Barnett's death.

Barnett was found strangled 200 yards from Madison's home, the adjoining property to the home where Barnett was staying.

Investigators confirmed that Madison had pretended to search for Barnett's body after she was reported missing.

"The road to justice for this sweet, innocent little girl is too important to release anything to jeopardize this investigation," said Welden.

According to testimony by Chief Investigator David Davis,

By Marla Jones, Managing Editor Published on November 21, 2019

search and rescue dogs picked up Barnett’s scent at the back door of Madison’s home. The body of Amberly Barnett was found with a rope, the same type of rope found at Madison’s home, tied around her neck.

The following month, the DeKalb County District Attorney's Office began taking the necessary actions to pursue the death penalty for Madison.

A trial date has still not been set for the case.

Madison remains in the DeKalb County jail without bond.

IDER, Ala. — Following two letters sent to affected residents, officials at the DeKalb-Jackson Water Supply District are monitoring drinking water conditions after reporting violations of drinking water standards.

An official with the DeKalb-Jackson Water Supply District stated that their water supply would be retested on Tuesday, November 26th. At the time of press, we have still received no comment on the retesting.

At a meeting of the water board in November, its first official one in months, local law enforcement was called to deal with citizens accused of trespassing after the meeting was adjourned.

According to Jackson County Commission Chairman Tim Guffey, the current members of the Board include: Greg Harris and William Dalton of DeKalb County, with Clinton Hill, Dois Holman, Johnny McAllister and Frankie Yates serving as Jackson County’s members. Two former members of the Board, who were appointed by the Jackson County Commission, have sued to remain on the Board. “I feel confident that the new Board members that we appointed can fix the problem if they are allowed to,� said Guffey. “I think it’s awful that we’ve come to this point [and] that our water has gotten into this situation." The lawsuit is still pending at the time of press.

• TOP STORIES 8-10 ARE CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 •

4 OF 5 FIRE VICTIMS IDENTIFIED BY DSCO

By Southern Torch Staff FORT PAYNE, Ala. — From the Office of DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden: On Thursday, a call came into the DeKalb County 911 line reporting a structure fire off of Highway 75 near the Georgia state line.

Cartersville, Henagar, and the Tri-Community Fire Departments all responded to the scene.

• Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from all of us at Southern Torch!

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DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office Deputies and the Ider Police Department also responded to assist.

The trailer was fully involved when firefighters arrived on the scene.

During the course of battling the blaze, five fatalities were discovered inside the structure. The remains were transported to the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences in Huntsville for

an autopsy that began today.

While the autopsy is not yet complete, the identities of 4 out of 5 victims have been confirmed. Work will continue on Monday to confirm the last victim, an adult male.

The names of the confirmed victims are

>> FIRE, P6

SYLVANIA PHARMACY YOUR FRIEND, YOUR DRUGSTORE! Visit our website at www.southerntorch.com for daily news updates and pick up your weekly print edition at news stands every Friday.

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Our Christmas Memories FRIDAY — DECEMBER 27, 2019

Marla Jones

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Zach Hester

MANAGING EDITOR • SPORTS EDITOR

GRAPHIC DESIGNER • REPORTER

As a child, I was easily entertained by one simple book throughout the holidays, the Sears and Roebuck Catalog. In that magical catalog, you could find the latest fashions, home goods and an array of toys.

My mother would sit me down at the kitchen table, while she was doing her holiday baking, and I would spend hours circling the items that I had to have and carefully folding down the edges of the page to mark the spot.

On the Sunday before Christmas, we always had our Church Christmas Play.

After the play, Santa came to visit the children. For some reason, Santa always resembled my Dad, older brother or a family friend from the church. I remember one Christmas crawling up and sitting on Santa’s lap. I told him that I wanted a dollhouse so bad. He asked if I had circled which one I wanted in the Sears and Roebuck catalog. I told him yes and he told me that he would try his best to bring it to me. I remember thinking that he really did watch the children because he knew I looked at that catalog religiously.

On Christmas Eve, I put Santa’s cookies and milk by the fireplace. Christmas morning, I ran into the living room and saw Santa’s footprint on the hearth and that the cookies and milk were gone. I remember scanning the room and to my delight, there sat the dollhouse complete with all the accessories that I had circled in the Sears and Roebuck catalog.

Sometimes, I think as adults we get so bombarded with Christmas shopping and events, that we forgot the magic of Christmas. My wish for you is simply that you enjoy this season with friends and family and never forget the magic you felt as a child.

My favorite Christmas memory coincides with the exact same moment that I became a dog person.

On Christmas Eve eleven years ago, we were cleaning up from dinner with my mother’s side of the family. I noticed my dad, who’s always around to help out, was not there. As the night finally ended and the last extended family left our house, my dad came back, but not by himself.

He walked in with a small cardboard box covered with a blanket and a tiny little head shuffling underneath. It was our first dog in our new house: a tiny dachshund wearing a red bow named Rusty.

He was small enough to fit in the palms of your hands (that didn’t last long) and I definitely remember wrapping him up in a blanket on the following Christmas morning because he stayed cold when he was little.

Flash forward to now and Rusty isn’t just a pivotal member of my family, my favorite Christmas present, but also the best memory from Christmas I have. There’s no gift I could ever get that will replace him and I can’t imagine decorating the Christmas tree with him getting into the garland every single year.

Amy Thrash

Marshall Stiefel

One of my most favorite Christmas memories growing up was waking early to see what Santa had brought me. After opening all my presents, we had an hour or so before my family would all get ready and head to my Nan-Naw’s house.

At Nan-Naw’s I had an abundance of cousins to play with all day. We played outside, running in and out just to get a Christmas treat, and then went right back to playing, no matter the weather.

At lunch, we all gathered around for a huge Christmas dinner.

I remember looking at the table, thinking that was the most food I had ever seen. We all sat around after dinner and remembered the true reason for the season.

I had eight Aunts and Uncles, plus Nan-Naw that gave us kids, their undivided attention. We may not have had an abundance of presents but the love we felt was immeasurable.

My wish to you this Christmas season is to never forget the true meaning of Christmas and may you all enjoy the special day with friends and loved ones.

Twas the night before Christmas 1988 and I was just 12 years old. Ronald Reagan was in the White House, the Berlin Wall was about to fall and all was well in my little world. This was before the age of iPads and cell phones when a boy could still go into the woods with his 22 without fear.

The Nintendo gaming system had just arrived in stores, and my more prosperous friends had already been delighting in their achievements on their own Nintendos, but I didn’t have one...yet.

However, I knew that with just the right amount of “yes sir” and “no ma’am,” I could acquire one of my own.

I anxiously waited up, in the hopes that Santa Claus might bring my present early that night. I stayed awake, dreaming of Super Mario and Duck Hunt. In the wee hours of December 25, I waded into the living room and what did I find under the tree? A brand new Nintendo. I sat up for the rest of the night shooting ducks and helping Mario get home. Merry Christmas and God Bless.

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Merry Christmas to YOU FROM ALL OF US AT SOUTHERN TORCH

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FRIDAY — DECEMBER 27, 2019

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COMMUNITY

Alabama Ranked 5th in Christmas Spirit

UPCOMING EVENTS Every Monday, By His Hands Outreach Ministry - The By His Hands Outreach Ministry will host a soup kitchen beginning on Mondays at 6pm. The Clothes Closet will be open Monday through Friday from 9am to 5pm. Both are at 2494 Church Avenue in Rainsville. Donations are greatly appreciated!

By Zach Hester Reporter zach@southerntorch.com

ALABAMA — A new study by GetCenturyLink has found Alabama to be the state with the fifth-highest Christmas spirit across the nation.

According to the study, Tennessee was ranked as the state with the most Christmas spirit followed by North Carolina, Utah, Ohio, and Alabama. The states with the least Christmas spirit were Arizona, Florida, California,

Hawaii, and Nevada...all states with a very small likelihood of seeing snow on Christmas day.

In order to determine which states have the most Christmas spirit, the team at GetCenturyLink added online Christmas activity with area culture to get a composite score.

The parameters for the study included: Online Activity • Google searches for Christmas movies and gingerbread houses (29%) • Google shopping

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trends for wrapping paper, Christmas cards, Christmas ornaments, and “elf on a shelfâ€? (28%) • Number of Christmas songs streamed (14.5%) • Number of tweets related to Christmas (7%) Area Culture • Number of Christmas tree farms per capita (7%) • Amount of charitable donations (14.5%) Other interesting finds from the study include: • 25 to 30 million Christmas trees are sold in the US every year. To put that in perspective, that’s more than trees than the entire population of Switzerland (which is only 8,591,365)

SOUTHERN TORCH • 98-3 WILD COUNTRY • 101-7 THE TORCH Southern Torch (USPS Periodicals #19790) is published each Friday by Southern Eloise Smith, Business Manager Torch, Inc. 203 Main Street E, Rainsville, Marla Jones, Managing Editor/Sports Ala. 35986. POSTMASTER: Send address Jenna Sue Payne, Media Sales Manager changes to Southern Torch, P.O. Box 614, Joe Sims, Radio Operations Manager Zach Hester, Art Director/Reporter Rainsville, Ala. 35986-0614.

Staff:

Amy Thrash, Account Executive B. Annette Little, Account Executive Jodi Skinner, Account Executive Teresa Smith, Traffic Director Marshall Stiefel, Distribution/Radio Lindsey Jones, Accounting

256.638.4040 • 256.259.2341 MEMBERSHIP RATES:

Regular Yearly Rate — $30 Senior /Veteran Yearly Rates — $25

• The most expensive Christmas tree ornament in the world goes for $130,000.

It includes 1,578 diamonds, 18-carat white gold, and 188 red rubies • Alaska, a state that can definitely depend on a white Christmas, ranked a distant 40th overall, but took the top prize in two different categories: Christmas tweets and searches for ‘Christmas Cards’ on Google shopping • Utah gets the top spot for being the most giving state. According to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the Beehive State donated 4.8% of their adjusted income in 2018.

Every Monday, Sons of Confederate Veterans - The Sons of Confederate Veterans meets the 2nd Monday of each month at Burnt Church at 6pm in Sylvania.

Every Monday, Sons of the American Revolution - The Sons of the American Revolution meets the 3rd Monday of each month at Western Sizzlin' in Fort Payne at 6pm.

Every Wednesday, Parents of Addicted Loved Ones - A new support group for Parents of Addicted Loved Ones is starting in Fort Payne at Word of Life Ministry, located at 3610 Gault Avenue North. The meeting will be held every Tuesday from 6pm to 7:30pm.

Any adult family member over 18 is welcome to attend these PAL meetings, however, for insurance reasons, no one under the age of 18 may attend and child care will not be provided.

For more information, visit palgroup.org.

Every Wednesday, Breakthrough Church free meal - Come and enjoy a free meal and hear the Word of God on Wednesday nights starting January 3 at 5:30pm. If you need a ride, please contact: Lynn Haas at (256) 605-7854 or Connie Holdem at (256) 605-1776.

Every Third Thursday, Alzheimer's Caregivers Support Group - The Alzheimer's Association will begin hosting a caregivers support group solely devoted to those who provide care for people with Alzheimer's on the third Thursday of every month from 11am to 12pm at the Rainbow City First United Methodist Church. For more information, please call Olivia Kendrick at (256) 454-4375.

Happy JackÂŽ LiquiVict 2xÂŽ: recognized safe & effective

by US CVM for hook & roundworms in dogs. Hometown Feed & Seed. (www.happyjackinc.com)

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THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FRIDAY — DECEMBER 27, 2019

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LEGALS

LEGALS

LEGALS

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ALABAMA

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ALABAMA

IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA

Case No: 2019-335 IN RE: THE ESTATE OF ANTHONY GLENN GUINN, deceased

Case No: CS-19-900176

Case No: 2019-337 IN RE: THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF WADE MYRON HIGGINBOTHAM, DECEASED LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION ON THE ESTATE OF WADE MORTON HIGGINBOTHAM, DECEASED, having been granted to the undersigned on the 10th day of December, 2019, by the Honorable Ronnie Osborn, Judge of Probate of said County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate, are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law, or the same will be barred.

Susan Higginbotham, Administratrix To be published: December 13, 20, 27

NOTICE TO FILE CLAIMS TAKE NOTICE that Letters of Administration having been granted to JASON M. GUINN, as Personal Representative of the Estate of ANTHONY GLENN GUINN, deceased, on the 7th day of December 2019, by the Honorable Ronnie E. Osborn, Judge of Probate.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that all persons having claims against the said Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Jason M. Guinn, personal representative of the Estate of Anthony Glenn Guinn, deceased To be published: December 20, 27, January 4

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN

CATARINA FRANCISCO FRANCISCO, Plaintiff/Mother v.

MATIAS JUAN TOMAS, Defendant NOTICE OF CUSTODY PROCEEDINGS MATIAS JUAN TOMAS, whose whereabouts are unknown, must answer the Complaint and other relief by the 10th day of February, 2020 or, thereafter, a judgment by default may be rendered against him in Case No.: CS-19-900176, in the District Court of DeKalb County, Alabama.

Attorney for Plaintiff: Gabriela Watson, Esq WATSON & WATSON Post Office Box 1068 Albertville, Alabama 35950 Phone: 256-660-1280 Fax: 256-660-1541 To be published: December 20, 27, January 4, 11

This is hereby notice to Josh Slater, occupant of an apartment owned by Jo Gregory, located at 2642 Alabama Highway 117. You have two weeks to vacate the property or personal belongings will be disposed of. Dated the 18th day of December, 2019. To be published: December 20, 27

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Thank A Fireman

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

RAINSVILLE, Ala. — The Rainsville Fire Department conducted a confined space rescue training last week.

The course, which is designed to train firefighters to deal with entanglement in small spaces, had around 80 people go through while the trailer was parked at the Fire Department.

Different obstacles inside the trailer included a rafter simulator, which mimics what a firefighter might encounter in an attic; entanglement of wires that a firefighter has to brave during rescues; and confined space maze that must be

completed in order to get out of the trailer.

After I went through the course with Rainsville Fire Chief Willimac Wright, I have developed a newfound respect for our local firemen. They never know from day to

day what they might encounter and still they step up to the challenge.

This holiday, while you're celebrating, a fireman is at work, watching over you. Thank a fireman.

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FRIDAY — DECEMBER 27, 2019

Marla's Magical Christmas Moment FAITH This article was previously featured in our special "Christmas in Dixie" insert, which was published on Friday, December 6. The insert honored the ALABAMA band for their contributions to the DeKalb County community and celebrated their 50 years in the music industry.

By Marla Jones, Managing Editor • marla@southerntorch.com BROWNTOWN, Ala. — Growing up in the South, Christmas was different than most places. When I was a child, there were not many places to go visit Santa like there is today. We would wait until our Church Christmas play was over and Santa would magically appear to ask all the little children what they wanted for Christmas.

One of my Christmas wishes was always something musical. It started with wanting to play with music toys, to records and record players, to tapes and tape players and then on to actual instruments.

When I was old enough, I joined the Sylvania Band. I remember being so excited to march in my first Christmas parade for the City of Rainsville. That year, there were some very special Grand Marshalls, the Alabama Band. The moment I saw them on the back of the convertible car, I was starstruck. I was in seventh grade and had the biggest crush on them. I would sing “Love in the First Degree� to the top of my voice, because I “knew� those guys!

The years passed and the Alabama’s popularity increased and the group had several more hits. They was not much to do in Fort Payne but to “cruise� back and forth down Gault Avenue. We would all sing, Tennessee River, Mountain Music and Dixieland Delight when they came on the radio. One night, when I was in the eleventh grade, we heard a new song that soon became our favorite, Christmas in Dixie. We pulled over and turned it up so we could cling on every word. When the ending, “from Fort Payne, Alabama� played, six girls squealed at the top of their lungs with delight!

I will never forget the first June Jam I got to attend. I had just graduated high school and the boys did not disappoint. The Jam brought some of the best artists of the day to our town! Fans from all across the United States would gather just to see the guys. I remember thinking how lucky I was to see them walking into the grocery store and pumping gas. The one thing that has always been true about the band was their connection to their fans.

Through the years, I have had the opportunity to interview Jeff Cook and one thing remains the same, the connection. Jeff and his wife, Lisa host a Christmas tour thru Cook Castle yearly for the fans. Jeff, along with the other members of the band always donate back to the fans. And for this, I am proud to say “I know them!�

And from Fort Payne, Alabama and the Southern Torch crew, “Merry Christmas and goodnight!�

FROM PAGE 1

older, I feel as though the spirit of Christmas is dwindling. As a child things were so special and exciting. Yet, as an adult Christmas can tend to be stressful and almost rushed. For example, trying to make it all the family dinners and/or work parties can be overwhelming. Aside from all that, it saddens me that for many, the Christmas story has been labeled familiar and that perhaps we aren't inspired anymore. Maybe you’re not moved by the story of Jesus being born in a manger anymore because you've heard it your entire life. Been there, done that, you know all the songs, etc.

However, when we become too “familiar� with something, it can be easy to miss the beauty of it.

It is very easy to focus on giving or receiving gifts from family or friends and forgetting the true meaning of Christmas. Thanks to television, it can even be easier to focus our

attention on “Santa Claus� and all the gifts he will bring us more than the real reason for the season. This may sound harsh, but I say this with love, it’s not our birthday December 25th, it Jesus’.

What are we giving HIM? In my opinion, His birth is the most important birth that the world has ever known!

December 25th is the day we celebrate a true King being born. A King who grew up to have such courage and love to be nailed to a cross and take a punishment for OUR sins. A King who shares his inheritance with his sons and daughters, you and I. Nothing ordinary came from the birth of Jesus.

I am reminded on the YouTube video, “That’s My King.� If you have not watched it, I would encourage you to do so!

Part of the video goes like this‌�He strengthens and sustains, He heals the sick, He forgives sinners, He serves the unfortunate, He rewards the diligent, He is the wellspring of wisdom, He is the pathway of peace, His goodness is limitless, His mercy is everlasting,

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His love never changes, His grace is sufficient, The Pharasees couldn’t stand him, but they found out they couldn't stop him, Herod couldn't kill him, and the grave couldn't hold him..� That’s my King!!!

Friend, our King deserves to be celebrated!

I long for the day we are all in Heaven and get to partake in the birthday celebration in person with Him! How beautifully amazing will that be?! So friend, like I mentioned earlier, it’s easy to get carried away in the hustle and bustle, but I challenge you this Christmas to step back from the busy schedule, take a breather, and mediate on the beauty of the birth of Jesus Christ. Will we acknowledge the birth of our Savior, or will our mind be consumed with parties and gifts? There is absolutely nothing wrong with parties and gifts but I pray we are all mindful that without Christ there would be no Christmas. I hope you all have a very blessed and merry Christmas! See you next week!

POLITICS

INSIDE THE STATEHOUSE

By Steve Flowers ST Columnist

MONTGOMERY, Ala. — As is my tradition, as the old year comes to a close, I like to pay homage to legendary Alabama leaders who have passed away. We lost some legends in 2019.

Although he was a nonpolitical leader, Bart Starr passed away this year at 85. Starr was best known for being the quarterback of the great Green Bay Packers teams that won the NFL Championship perennially. Starr was the leader of Coach Vince Lombardo’s dynasty teams.

Starr died during Memorial Day weekend in Birmingham. He left

an indelible legacy that was vast and greater than just being a pro-quarterback. Starr was a Packer and Alabama Football legend.

However, Starr’s grace, humility and love for his wife Cherry is what made him a great man.

Starr grew up in Montgomery. He was a successful businessman after his NFL career.

Legendary State Representative Pete Turnham of Auburn died in his beloved city in September. He was three months away from being 100. He served 40 years in the Alabama House of Representatives and during that tenure he made sure that Auburn University was taken care of in the state

Ider Discount Drugs

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budget. Mr. Pete was one of my best friends. We sat together in the House for 16 years.

A lion and giant of the Alabama House of Representatives, Rick Manley, passed away in January at 86. Rick served the people of Demopolis and West Alabama in the Legislature more than 25 years. He was one of the most astute parliamentarians to ever serve in the legislature. Rick Manley served as chairman of both the House and Senate Judiciary Committees.

He was also an outstanding attorney and served in a leadership role within the Alabama Law Institute. Manley served a term as Speaker ProTem of the Alabama House.

Representative Jimmy Martin of Clanton died in May of cancer on the last day of the 2019 Regular Legislative Session. He was 80. He knew almost everyone in

Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. He served 16 years in the state legislature.

Chilton County. He and his brother ran their family funeral home.

State Representative Dimitri Polizos of Montgomery passed away in March at 68. He was a longtime Montgomery restaurant owner. He was very well liked and respected in the Capitol City. Dimitri was typical of many of today’s Republican legislators. He was a small business owner and a conservative.

Dimitri was not only a successful restaurateur, he also was very active in and an integral part of the Greek community and the Greek Orthodox Church. Polizos served six years in the

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

Your loyal companion, Our dedicated focus!

Legislature prior to that he served six years on the Montgomery County Commission.

Chris McNair passed away in May at 93 in Birmingham. Mr. McNair was a former Jefferson County Commissioner.

Chris McNair was a first-class gentleman.

We served together in the legislature. We became good friends. He loved photography. He was always taking pictures, in fact it was his business/profession.

His daughter Denise was one of the four little girls who were killed by a bomb at the 16th Street Baptist Church in downtown Birmingham in the 1960s. The girls were attending Sunday school. Chris served 15 years on the Jefferson County Commission. He loved his family and his community.

Legendary former Tuscaloosa mayor, Al

Dupont, passed away in July at age 94. He served as Mayor of the Druid City for 25 years, retiring in 2005. He was colorful and beloved by many. He was a decorated veteran of World War II and won two Purple Hearts. He was among the first wave of troops who stormed Normandy on D-Day. He epitomized the greatest generation.

Former 1st District Congressman, Jack Edwards, passed away in September at 91.

Edwards was one of the first Republican congressmen elected from Alabama in 1964 since Reconstruction.

Congressman Edwards served his Mobile/ Baldwin County District for exactly 20 years from 1965-1985. Edwards was a stalwart advocate for a strong military. He was a ranking member of the Defense Appropriations Committee.

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THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FRIDAY — DECEMBER 27, 2019

FIRE

FROM PAGE 1 Kayla Jackson (age 26), Kaylon Stotts (age 4), Jaycee Stotts (age 3), and Harley Stotts (age 18 months).

The incident is currently under investigation by the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office, Alabama Fire Marshalls, and Jacksonville State University Center for Applied Forensic Sciences.

DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden said of the incident: “I’d like to ask for the community to pray for the family in the wake of this tragic incident. It’s especially tragic when the loss involves young children.

I’d also like to ask for patience when it comes to this investigation.� “When such a great loss of life occurs, we must be thorough in handling the aftermath.

We owe it to this family to provide answers, especially when children are lost. We’ll update with more information as the investigation progresses,� he said.

8. State Republicans Deny Whitmire 9. Day Trip Turns Deadly

By Zach Hester, Reporter Published on December 9, 2019 ALABAMA — On December 8, the Alabama Republican Party (ALGOP) heard many ballot access challenges from across the state. Among those was the challenge regarding DeKalb County District Judge Steven Whitmire, who currently serves as a Democrat.

In October, Whitmire filed paperwork with ALGOP to seek re-election to office through the Republican primary in March 2020. The state committee voted to deny Whitmire ballot access in the upcoming Republican primary.

Whitmire made no public announcement of his intentions to switch parties and had failed to appear before the Dekalb County Republican Party prior to filing according to DeKalb County Republican Party Chairman David Gulledge.

In a prepared statement from Whitmire, he expressed disappointment in the committee’s decision but felt he was a Republican in his heart. “Despite the Committee’s ruling, or what may come from it, I guarantee that I remain committed to serving the people of DeKalb county to the best of my ability. That’s what I’ve always done and what I will continue to do," stated Whitmire.

By Marla Jones, Managing Editor Published on July 11, 2019 SCOTTSBORO, Ala. — According to the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, on June 4, an incident occurred on a day trip at the Jackson County Park that resulted in the death of a resident of Haymon Homes.

The deceased, 31-year-old Lucius Wayne Frazier, reportedly became violent with other residents and was then subdued by employees inside the bus. After the incident, Frazier stopped breathing and was taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office conducted an investigation on the incident and an autopsy was conducted to determine the cause of death.

At the time of press, the results of the final autopsy are still pending and no charges have been filed.

10. DeKalb Bands Unite for Alabama Bicentennial

By Zach Hester Reporter Published on Nov. 26 MONTGOMERY, Ala. — For the first time, several DeKalb County bands united for a performance outside of the county.

Students representing the Crossville (25 students), Fyffe (18),

PHOTO BY RON BEARDEN

Geraldine (18), Ider (23), Plainview (23), and Sylvania (13) bands will combine forces for a special trip to Montgomery to perform as part of the Alabama Bicentennial Celebration. The band marched in the Bicentennial Parade on Saturday, December 14.

The DeKalb County

band performed an arrangement by Sylvania Band Director Patrick Roszell. “We are so excited to be able to be coming together and forming a mass band. It shows the building up of and the unity of the DeKalb County bands,� said Ider Band Director Brandon Terrell.

Center. A memorial service was held on Sunday, December 22 at 1pm at House of Prayer on Crow Mountain.

WILSON

DEATH NOTICES W.T. WILSON Phillip Shane Croft - 51 of Albertville, passed away on Thursday, December 19 at Birmingham. Funeral services were held at 3pm on Sunday, December 22 at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel. Burial followed in Pilgrim’s Rest Cemetery.

Billy Charles McMahan - 76 of Peek’s Corner, passed away on Friday, December 20.

Funeral services were held at 3pm on Monday, December 23 at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel with Bros. Donald Leggett and Shorty Dover officiating. Burial

followed in Welcome Grove Cemetery.

Grady Lavon Renfroe - 68 of Boaz, passed away on Friday, December 20.

Funeral services were held at 1pm on Sunday, December 22 at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel with Bro. Hoyt Gilbert officiating. Burial followed in Asbury Cemetery.

Paul David Hall - 85 of Geraldine, passed away on Saturday, December 21. No services are planned at this time.

Rickey L. Burt - 69 of Valley Head, passed away on Saturday, December

Burt Funeral H omes

since 1982

since 1969

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21. Funeral services were held at 1pm on Monday, December 23 at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel with Bro. George Hughes officiating. Burial followed in Valley Head Cemetery.

Cory Anthony Gamez - 27 of Fort Payne, passed away on Sunday, December 22. Funeral services were held on Thursday, December 26 at 1pm at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel. Burial followed in Glenwood Cemetery.

RAINSVILLE Ovilla Seay - 76 of Fort Payne, passed away on Tuesday, December 17 at Cumberland Helth & Rehab. Funeral services were held at noon on Saturday, December 21 with Rev. Melvin Dawson officiating. Burial followed in Wesley’s Chapel Cemetery.

BURT Nora Ann Edwards - 76, passed away on Wednesday, December 18 at her residence.

Graveside services were held at 12:30pm on Saturday, December 21 at Valley Head Cemetery with Rev. John Mathieu and burial to follow.

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Billy Joe Walker - 79 of Henagar, passed away on Friday, December 20 at DeKalb Regional Medical Center. Funeral services were held on Sunday, December 22 at 2pm at Kerby Funeral Home Chapel with Bros.

Steve Lea and Larry Haynes officiating.

Burial followed at New Home Cemetery.

Mattie Dickey Golden - 88 of Mentone, passed away on Friday, December 20 at her residence. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Gary Charles Kantorik - 64 of Hollywood, passed away on Wednesday, December 18 at Crestwood Medical

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Edward Lee Turner - 83 of Fort Payne, passed away on Wednesday, December 18. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Saturday, December 21 at Wilson Funeral Home with Dr. Mike Mitchell and Rev. Steve Davis officiating.

Burial followed in Fischer Cemetery with military honors.

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Traditional funeral, cremation and monument services

Maria Snowy Bell - 59 of Rainsville, passed away on Thursday, December 19 in Scottsboro. Funeral services were held at 11am on Saturday, December 28 at Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. David Goss officiating.

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THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FRIDAY — DECEMBER 27, 2019

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THE SOUTHERN TORCHT

FRIDAY — DECEMBER 27, 2019

Sand Mountain Tournament Winners!

­— PLAINVIEW VARSITY BOYS —

ALL PHOTOS BY CHERYL BOYDSTON

By Marla Jones, Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com RAINSVILLE, Ala. — In the final game of the Sand Mountain Tournament, the Plainview Bears (11-2)

toppled the Fyffe Red Devils (11-1), 81-74.

Cole Millican led the Bears with 31 points.

Following closely behind was Tristan Willingham with 26 points. Luke Smith and Millican led the Bears with eight rebounds each.

For the Red Devils, Parker Goodwin led the team with 16 points, with Austin Buster and Gabe Gardner having 15 each. Brody Dalton led the team with nine rebounds.

­— PISGAH LADY EAGLES —

By Marla Jones, Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

RAINSVILLE, Ala. — The Pisgah Lady Eagles defeated the Fyffe Lady Red Devils, 71-50, to win

the Sand Mountain Tournament.

The leading scorers for Pisgah were Molly

Heard with 25 points, and Callie Tinker with 17.

Heard also led the Lady Eagles with 12 rebounds

and six blocks.

For the Lady Red Devils, Marie Woodall and Gracie Hicks led Fyffe

with a net 11 points each.

Madison Myers led the Red Devils with eight rebounds.

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THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FRIDAY — DECEMBER 27, 2019

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THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FRIDAY — DECEMBER 27, 2019

Getting an X-ray, MRI, Mammogram, or CT? Talk to us first about Pre-Pay Pricing!

Healthcare pricing can be confusing, and if you don’t have insurance, it can be daunting. We’re helping simplify things by offering Pre-Pay Pricing for imaging services – a plan designed for those who don’t have insurance.

How does it work?

If you need an imaging service – like an X-ray, CT, mammogram or MRI – call 256-997-2844 before you receive that service. We can provide a quote for the bundled cost associated with that service if you pre-pay the total.

Some Pre-Pay Pricing examples: • Chest X-ray as low as $70 • Abdominal CT scan as low as $300 • Lower back MRI scan as low as $500

Pre-Pay Pricing can be a less expensive solution.

Call 256-997-2844 for Pre-Pay Pricing.

DeKalbRegional.com/PrePay You can make payment by phone or in person by either calling 256-997-2844 or stopping by the hospital’s Scheduling/Business Office or Registration during regular business hours. In-person payments can be made with cash or credit/debit card and phone payments can be made with credit/debit card or e-check.