HIT A HOME RUN WITH TWIN CITY! 1411 Glenn Blvd SW, Fort Payne, AL 35967
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THE SOUTHERN TORCH / FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020 / VOL. 6, NO. 10 / $1.00 THIS WEEK IN SPORTS •A •A
THIS WEEK IN BUSINESS •A •A
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THIS WEEK IN POLITICS
• Rainsville Seek Federal Grant for Police • Alabama Rejects Amendment One
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THIS WEEK IN COMMUNITY • Media Unites for Camp St. Jude • DeKalb County Upcoming Events
Geraldine Votes to Fire Buckles Tensions Rise as Asst. Police Chief Dismissed
Harris, Wootten Win Commission Races
By Zach Hester Reporter zach@southerntorch.com
A Geraldine citizen spoke up in favor of Assistant Police Chief Jeff Buckles, despite no public comments being allowed at the meeting. (Zach Hester | Southern Torch)
By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com GERALDINE, Ala. — On Tuesday night, the Town of Geraldine took action to
terminate Assistant Police Chief Jeff Buckles after an independent investigation into comments he made online after last month’s State of the Union. “Pelosi just ripped up
his speech. Road Side bomb on her way home and any other Dumbocrats,� Buckles stated in his post. The post was later deleted with Buckles apologizing, “I have definitely offended
U.S. Senate Race Heads to Runoff
some people with my remarks. It just rips my heart out that our great country is so divided.� The Council voted 5-1, with Mayor Chuck Ables voting for termination and
only Councilmember Terry Harris voting against, to terminate Buckles’ employment with the Town
>> BUCKLES, P6
Officer-Involved Shooting During Pursuit
By Southern Torch Staff
Former Auburn head coach Tommy Tuberville and former U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions are headed to a runoff after Tuesday's vote produced no majority for one candidate. (File Photos)
By Zach Hester Reporter zach@southerntorch.com ALABAMA — The Republican race for United States Senate in Alabama is (still) on after Tuesday night’s results showed no candidate receiving a majority of votes. Former Auburn
football coach Tommy Tuberville and former U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions are headed to a runoff election, which will be held on Tuesday, March 31. Congressman Bradley Byrne finished in third place. According to results provided by Decision Desk HQ, Tuberville held a
narrow margin over Sessions, who held the seat for 20 years before serving as head of the Justice Department under President Trump, with 239,173 votes (33.39%) in his favor to Sessions’ 226,675 votes (31.65%).
>> RUNOFF, P5
FORT PAYNE, Ala. — From the Office of DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden: On Monday at approximately 10 pm, DCSO deputies were involved in an officer-involved shooting during a high-speed pursuit. The chase concluded at the 218 on-ramp of I-59 in Fort Payne. The suspect was transported by DeKalb Ambulance Service to Huntsville Hospital. He has since been released and is in custody. No deputies or law enforcement officers were injured during the pursuit. Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Investigators (ALEA) are currently investigating, as is normal protocol following such incidents. Charges and the suspect’s identity will be released at a later time.
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DeKALB COUNTY, Ala. — Tuesday night's elections saw incumbent Shane Wootten re-elected to another term for DeKalb County Commission, District 1, while challenger Terry Harris narrowly toppled incumbent Scot Westbrook for the District 2 seat. Harris, who has served on the Geraldine Town Council since 2016, defeated Westbrook with 1,380 votes (51.92%) to the incumbent's 1,278 votes (48.08%). Wootten, who received 1,608 votes (56.30%) was elected to another term in District 1 over Joseph Lee, who received 1,248 votes (43.70%). No Democrats filed to run for either seat. In other news, only 33.10% of registered DeKalb County voters turned out to the polls. 12,028 Republicans voted while 2,248 Democrats voted, out of a total 43,220 registered voters. Here are the final results for DeKalb County's 2020 primary elections: • Democratic Nomination for President: Biden 1193,
>> ELECTION, P1
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FRIDAY — MARCH 6, 2020
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
HIT A HOME RUN WITH TWIN CITY! 1411 Glenn Blvd SW, Fort Payne, AL 35967
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US Chamber Awards State Scholarships
Body Found on CR140
By B.A. Little Reporter beverlyannette@ southerntorch.com JACKSON COUNTY, Ala. — On Tuesday, the Jackson County Sheriff's Office released the identity of the victim found in the Estill Fork community last weekend.
Sheriff Chuck Phillips identified the victim as 36-year-old Charles David McEwen of Scottsboro. His body was found behind a home on County Road 140. The cause of death has not been released. Initially, a phone call tip lead to the discovery, and the matter is currently being invesigated as a homicide.
GH Metal Solutions & NACC Unite for Signing By B.A. Little, Reporter
Debbie Ashburn, Vice-President of Investor Relations & Membership Services for the Mountain Lakes Chamber of Commerce. (Submitted Photo)
By Jackson Blaze Staff SCOTTSBORO, Ala. — Institute for Organization Management, the professional development program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, is pleased to announce that Debbie Ashburn, Vice-President of Investor Relations & Membership Services for the Mountain Lakes Chamber of Commerce has been awarded a State Partnership Scholarship in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama. The scholarship is awarded to only five, first-year Institute attendees who were chosen based on qualifications set by the Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama in conjunction with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation program. Since its commencement in 1921, the Institute program has been educating tens of thousands of association, chamber, and other nonprofit leaders on how to build stronger organizations, better serve their members and become strong business advocates. Institute’s curriculum consists of four weeklong sessions at four different university locations throughout the country. Through a combination of required courses and electives in areas such as leadership, advocacy, marketing, finance, and membership, Institute participants are able to
enhance their own organizational management skills and add new fuel to their organizations, making them run more efficiently and effectively. Each of the State Partnership recipients will attend one of the Institute’s four sites in 2020. Graduates of the Institute receive the IOM recognition, signifying completion of 96 hours of course instruction in nonprofit management. In addition, participants can earn credit hours toward the Certified Chamber Executive (CCE) or Certified Association Executive (CAE) certifications. Nearly 1,000 individuals attend Institute annually. Institute for Organization Management is the professional development program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. It is the premier nonprofit professional development program for association and chamber professionals, fostering individual growth through interactive learning and networking opportunities. As an affiliate with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation (USCCF) as a 501 (c)(6) nonprofit affiliate of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce the Mountain Lakes Chamber remains dedicated to strengthening our areas long-term competitiveness by addressing developments that affect our nation, our economy, and the global business environment.
beverlyannette@southerntorch.com
JACKSON COUNTY, Ala. — GH Metal Solutions, in coordination with Northeast Alabama Community College (NACC), participated in a co-op signing ceremony last week. Seven NACC students, who are members of the welding, machine tool, and industrial electronic programs, participated in the signing. These technical programs are offered by Northeast Alabama Community College Workforce Development. For more information, please visit (256) 228-6001, ext. 2254. Congratulations to students Edgar Joj, Alia Wyatt, Andrew Bowlan, Andrew Gentry, Javier Diego, Brendan Parker, and Will Sterling!
Final Results for Jackson Co. Elections
(File Photo)
By B.A. Little Reporter beverlyannette@ southerntorch.com JACKSON COUNTY, Ala. — Jackson County residents voiced their vote for change as three incumbents were voted out in the Republican Primary. In the Jackson County Commission races, incumbents Melinda Gilbert and Mike Sisk were both defeated. In the
Board of Education race, Charles West was defeated. A.J. Buckner and Mark Guffey, Jackson County Commission District 3, will participate in a runoff on Tuesday, March 31. Buckner finished with 3,593 votes and Guffey with 3,207 votes. Gilbert had 2,454 votes. Jackson County Commission District 4 finished with Kevin McBride at 4980 votes and incumbent Mike Sisk with 4,040. McBride does not
have Democrat opposition in the November election. Robbie King defeated incumbent Charles West 4,302 – 2,039 in the Jackson County Board of Education race. King also does not have Democrat opposition in the November election. In the Circuit Judge’s race to replace retiring Judge Jenifer Holt, Brent Benson finished on top with 5,880 votes. Daryl Eustace had 2,582 votes
and Patricia Stewart had 1,168 votes. Benson has no Democratic opposition in November. After the results, Benson said that he wanted to thank everyone who had worked so hard during this campaign and thanked everyone for voting. The Jackson County elections will be certified next week alongside the opening of any provisional ballots.
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FRIDAY — MARCH 6, 2020
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
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COMMUNITY
Media Working Together to Kick Cancer to the Curb By Jenna Sue Payne ST Media Sales Manager & Bruce's Foodland Event Coordinator DeKALB COUNTY, Ala. — Local Radio Stations and Newspapers have much in common, we all want to keep the public informed and to make our communities a better place for our neighbors. That is why area Media has joined forces this year to partner with Bruce's Foodland Stores in their annual CAMP ST. JUDE Fundraiser. Sometime around 2004 Michael Bruce and Mike Griggs developed the idea to get involved with St. Jude and have some fun grilling. The Bruce Family donates 100 percent of the food sold, as well as serving as volunteers.
Bruce’s Camp St. Jude partnered with WQSB's Country Cares For Kids and to date, we have raised around 135,000.00. WQSB's Barry Galloway and the staff have such a heart for the kids and the radiothon is always a big success. From the beginning, we could not have taken on such a big task if it hadn't been for the help of people like Fort Payne City's Mike Griggs, and Times Journal Publisher Tricia Clinton. Tricia always did a great job manning the wagon with Connie, Angela and Misty Bruce. While Griggs led the charge on the grill with people like Eric Burt and Tyler Griggs. The Times-Journal would always help publicize and bring great volunteers who were ready to work. I was
on the morning show at WQSB at the time and it was a great partnership to use radio and newspaper to help raise funds for the kids at St. Jude. Last year when I made the move to Southern Torch as Media Sales Manager, I was trying to figure out how we could continue and utilize all the media outlets to make it all work. With two radio stations, WKEA 983 WILD COUNTRY and WMXN 1017 The Torch; and two newspapers Southern Torch and the new Jackson Blaze, it only made sense that we could all join forces. Three Radio Stations and three newspapers working together to help kids in need. The volunteers make it fun for sure. We have had
Local media outlets, including newspapers and radio stations, are teaming up to partner with Bruce's Foodland Stores for their annual Camp St. Jude fundraiser on Tuesday, March 10. (St. Jude Children's Research Hospital)
politicians, first responders, high school students, and Country Music Celebrities like Jeff and Lisa Cook all willing to put on the rubber gloves and stuff buns! Area industry and business owners alike have come out and helped us by buying lunch for their employees. Last year Southern Torch Editor Marla Jones helped get the word out online and in the newspaper. She even helped out in our Rainsville location with veteran volunteers Bruce and
Sandra Hale along with First State Bank's Mandi Cooper. People like Mayor Larry Chesser and his wife Donna, Dekalb County Judge Andrew Hairston, Dorma Hutchenson, Rita Shirley, Kim Poe, Linda Sterling, Cole Justice and Sharon Jones who just show up and help us nearly every year. Join us Tuesday, March 10th at Bruce’s Foodland in Fort Payne and Rainsville from 11 am til 2 pm, area volunteers, as well as local radio and newspaper personalities, will be
stuffing dogs as fast as they can to help feed people who want to fight childhood cancer. Hotdog plates are only 6.00. They include two hotdogs, chips, Little Debbie snacks, and a chilled drink. Big Dog sponsorships include lunch and a BIG DOG BUTTON for $100.00 and can be purchased from Misty Bruce at Pink Door Boutique, Bruce and Sandra Hale, or with Christian Payne. It is my hope in honor of the 40 years Bruce’s Foodland as served our community we can hit 150,000.00 in funds raised to date. But it takes you to make a difference! For more information feel free to call 256 996 4961 or email jennasue@ southerntorch.com.
DeKALB COUNTY 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!
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, 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 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 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.
TEACHER OF THE WEEK
For more information, please call Olivia Kendrick at (256) 454-4375. March 6-7, Shrine Rodeo - DeKalb Shrine Club of Alabama will present the 3rd Annual Shrine Rodeo at the Northeast Alabama Agri-Business Cneter in Rainsville on Friday, March 6 and Saturday, March 7 at 7:30pm. Tickets will only be sold at the door. Sponsorships and program advertising are now available. For more information, please call (256) 717-6263. March 10, DeKalb County Democratic Club The DeKalb County Democrats will hold their March meeting on Tuesday, March 10 at 7pm with food and socializing starting at 6pm. These times are new! The meeting will be held at the county Democratic headquarters at 205 Gault Avenue North in Fort Payne. Friends and visitors are welcome! March 21, Third Saturday Sunset Cruise-In - The City of Fort Payne's Third Saturday Sunset Cruise-In will be held at 5pm on Saturday, March
MRS. SUMMER KING OF CORNERSTONE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY Nominate your favorite teacher to be the next Teacher of the Week! The teacher selected from the nominees will receive $100 from Southern Torch & First State Bank! Go to 983WILDCOUNTRY.COM to nominate your favorite teacher today!
SOUTHERN TORCH • 98-3 WILD COUNTRY • 101-7 THE TORCH Staff:
Southern Torch (USPS Periodicals #19790) is published each Friday by Southern Torch, Inc. 203 Main Street E, Rainsville, Ala. 35986. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Southern Torch, P.O. Box 614, Rainsville, Ala. 35986-0614.
Eloise Smith, General Manager Marla Jones, Managing Editor/Sports Jenna Sue Payne, Media Sales Manager Joe Sims, Radio Operations Manager Zach Hester, Art Director/Reporter Amy Thrash, Account Executive B. Annette Little, Account Executive Jodi Skinner, Account Executive Teresa Smith, Traffic Director Dylan Smith, Jackson Blaze Managing Editor Lindsey Jones, Accounting Marshall Stiefel, Distribution Manager
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21! For more information, please contact Amelia at (256) 996-3857 or Terry (256) 996-2668. March 26, DeKalb County Senior Prom - The DeKalb County Council on Aging will host a senior prom "Sock Hop" on March 26 from 5 pm to 8 pm at the Wills Valley Rec. Center. Feel free to dress casual or in 50s style with poodle skirts and saddles shoes, whatever makes you want to dance the night away! If you don't want to dance, come just to eat, fellowship, and listen to some amazing music. This event is for DeKalb County residents only, but please
register by March 10. March 28, The Browders at the Pickin' Post - Come enjoy The Browders at the Pickin' Post in Fort Payne at 6pm on Saturday, March 28. The tickets are is $15 per person and tickets are available at Black's Tire in Rainsville, Dallas Place in Crossville and Roger's Pawn in Fort Payne. April 25, First State Bank 5K - The 9th Annual First State Bank will be held on Saturday, April 25 at 8 am at DeKalb Lake in Sylvania. The event will raise funds for Relay for Life.
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FRIDAY — MARCH 6, 2020
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LEGALS
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IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA
Case No.: 2020-41
Case No.: 2020-42
Case No.: 2020-44
IN RE: The Estate of Lillie Jeannette Jolley, deceased
IN RE: The Estate of Richard M. Ferguson Jr., deceased
IN RE: The Estate of Alma Ruth Parmer, deceased
NOTICE TO FILE CLAIMS
NOTICE TO FILE CLAIMS
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KANDIELAND DAY CARE CEN ER
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PuroClean Opens New Building
TAKE NOTICE that Letters of Administration with Will Annexed having been granted to LEAH M. MCELMOYL, as Personal Representative of the Estate of ALMA RUTH PARMER, deceased, on the 20th day of February 2020, by the Honorable Ronnie E. Osborn, Judge of Probate.
TAKE NOTICE that Letters of Administration having been grated to RICHARD L. FERGUSON SR., as Personal Representative of the Estate of RICHARD M. FERGUSON JR., deceased, on the 13th day of February 2020, 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.
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.
SHERRY DENTON BUCKELEW, Personal Representative
Richard L. Ferguson Sr., Personal Representative of the Estate of Richard M. Ferguson Jr., deceased
LEAH M. MCELMOYL, Personal Representative of the Estate of ALMA RUTH PARMER, deceased
To be published: February 21, February 28, and March 6
To be published: February 21, February 28, and March 6
To be published: February 28, March 6, and March 13
Letters Testamentary on the Estate of LILLIE JEANNETTE JOLLEY, deceased, having been granted to the undersigned on the 14th day of February, 2020, 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.
b
t F
(256) 259-2211
NOTICE TO FILE CLAIMS
t J w o s
PICTURED: Jerral Ingle and Jeremy Tallent of PuroClean, and Southern Torch Managing Editor Marla Jones.
By Marla Jones, Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com
FORT PAYNE, Ala. — PuroClean, a leader in property damage remediation, recently opened their doors to a new facility in Fort Payne to better serve their customers. The new building, which is located on Airport Road, will provide commercial or residential services for
fire, water, mold, and biohazard needs. Whether it be commercial or residential, no job is too big or too small for PuroClean. Owner Jerral Ingle and Marketing Manager Jeremy Tallent recently sat down with Southern Torch Managing Editor Marla Jones for an interview on their businesses and upcoming projects. To see the full video, please
Use ToneKote® liquid supplement to treat allergies, stop shedding, eliminate doggy odor and provide a warm winter coat. Hometown Feed & Seed. (www.kennelvax.com)
visit our Facebook page. Ingle's business ventures also include Carpet Care & Restoration, a local business specializing in carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning, water restoration, tile and grout cleaning, and much more. To contact Carpet Care & Restoration, please call (256) 845-7648 or email him at jerralingle@att.net. To contact Ingle or Tallent regarding PuroClean, please call (256) 273-4900 or jingle@puroclean.com.
FRIDAY — MARCH 6, 2020
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
5
POLITICS
ELECTION Rainsville FROM PAGE 1 Seeks Federal Grant for Police
By Marla Jones, Managing Editor
marla@southerntorch.com
RAINSVILLE, Ala. — The Rainsville City Council held their regularly scheduled meeting on March 2, 2020. Rainsville Police Chief, Kevin Smith addressed the Council and Mayor concerning a Department of Justice Cops Grant that will be applied for. The grant would help fund desperately needed additional officers. The grant would pay 75% of a police officer’s salary with the City paying 25%, for up to three years. In other business, the Council approved: • Set a budget workshop date for March 9 beginning at 4:15. • Four additional credit cards from First Southern State Bank • Postponed the bidding out of turn lane on Hwy 75 • Repair to a culvert on Willingham • Service agreement and authorization for mayor to pay for a rock wall and mechanical bull for the Freedom Fest • The last 800 ft of sewer line work for Scott Street • $500 sponsorship for Leadership DeKalb • Installation of street Light on 42 Rains Avenue • $1000 Sponsorship for Shriners Rodeo • Accepted the resignation of Tyler Phillips as a firefighter, and would post the job until the end of the month The DeKalb Shrine Club of Alabama will present the 3rd Annual Shrine Rodeo at the Northeast Alabama Agri-Business Cneter in Rainsville on Friday, March 6 and Saturday, March 7 at 7:30pm. Tickets will only be sold at the door. Sponsorships and program advertising are now available. For more information, please call (256) 717-6263. The next meeting of the Rainsville City Council will be held on March 16. The workshop begins at 4;15 and the regular session following at 5 pm.
Sanders 571, Bloomberg 267, Warren 114 (all other candidates under 100 votes) Democratic Nomination for PSC President: Casey 1288, Mardis 308 • Republican Nomination for President: Trump 11676, Weld 82 • Republican Nomination for U.S. Senator: Tuberville 6363, Sessions 2821, Byrne 1563, Moore 875 (all other candidates under 100 votes) • Republican Nomination for Associate Justice of the Supreme Court Place 1: Shaw 6519, Ward 2935 • Republican Nomination for Court of Civil Appeals Place 2: Fridy 5530, Bahakel 2701 • Republican Nomination for Court of Criminal Appeals Place 1: Windom 5806, Hasting 3065 • Republican Nomination for Court of Criminal Appeals Place 2: Smith 4271, Kellum 2926, Ganus 1103
• Republican Nomination for PSC President: Cavanaugh 6813, Litaker 2827 • Republican Nomination for DeKalb County Commission District 1: Wootten 1608, Lee 1248 • Republican Nomination for DeKalb County Commission District 2: Harris 1380, Westbrook 1278 • Republican Nomination for DeKalb County Constable District 3: Twilley 1451, Carter 649 • Republican Nomination for DeKalb County Constable District 4: Huber 1768, Whitt 552, Keener 480 In DeKalb County, the proposed statewide amendment to cede the election of state school board members to appointment by the Governor failed by a vote margin of 10,962 to 2,687. The final results for all delegates on both sides of the aisle can be found on the Alabama Secretary of State's website, alabamavotes.gov. This election will be certified next week along with the counting of provisional ballots.
RUNOFF FROM PAGE 1
Both men are vying to face incumbent Democrat Doug Jones (D-AL) in November. In DeKalb County, Tuberville led the pack with 6,363 votes (53.80%), followed by Sessions with 2,821 (23.45%), Byrne at 1,563 (13.21%), and Moore at 875 votes (7.4%). No other candidate received more than five percent of the vote. On Wednesday morning, President Trump tweeted that, “this is what happens to someone who loyally gets appointed Attorney General of the United States & then doesn’t have the wisdom or courage to stare down & end the phony Russia Witch Hunt. Recuses himself on FIRST DAY in office, and the Mueller Scam begins!� Tuberville replied back with, “Mr. President I could not agree more, and in 27
Thank you District 2 for your support and your vote!
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days help will be on the way!� At the time of press, Sessions had not responded to either comment. The runoff election for United States Senate will be held on Tuesday, March 31. Due to Alabama state law regarding closed party primaries, voters who chose the Democratic ballot on Tuesday are not eligible to vote in the Republican runoff.
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INSIDE THE STATEHOUSE Chancellor Finis St. John and the University of Alabama
By Steve Flowers Political Columnist FORT PAYNE, Ala. — Our 1901 Alabama Constitution has been rightfully criticized as being archaic. However, it was simply a reflection of the times. The authors and crafters of our document were well educated gentry. Therefore they appreciated and realized the importance of having a prized capstone university. The University of Alabama was founded in 1831 and had become one of the premier southern universities by the time of the Civil War. It was not by coincidence that one of the primary missions of the northern Union invasion of the South was to burn and raze the University of Alabama campus. They knew the importance of a state having an exemplary institution of higher learning. Therefore, when the authors of our Constitution crafted their document, they chose to place the University of
Alabama above politics and keep the institution in the auspices of high-minded individuals who would be above reproach and petty politics. The Constitution created a self-appointing, perpetual Board of Trustees to guide and govern the university. This concept has played out magnificently throughout the years. The Board of Trustees has been made up of men and women over the past two centuries who have been leaders of our state. These board members have not only been the most distinguished, erudite people in Alabama, but also those known for their integrity and humility. Thus it was a unique and yet brilliant decision to choose someone from the Board of Trustees to head the University of Alabama System. In July 2018, Finis E. St. John IV, who had served 17 years on the University System Board was named Chancellor. He became the Chief Executive Officer of what would be comparable to a
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Fortune 500 company. The University of Alabama System is not only Alabama’s largest higher education enterprise, it is Alabama’s largest employer with over 45,000 employees and an economic impact of over $10 billion per year. The Alabama System is comprised of three dynamic institutions: The University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, University of Alabama at Huntsville and the University of Alabama at Birmingham, which comprises our world renowned UAB Health System. UAB alone is by far Jefferson County’s largest employer and economic engine, it is indeed the State of Alabama’s number one employer and economic ingredient. It would have been an easy choice for the Board to choose to bring in an academician from an Ivy League school to head this prestigious institution. The choice of Finis St. John reflects the collective wisdom of this austere body. Why not select someone who has been an integral part of the
Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. Steve may be reached at www.steveflowers.us.
governing and spearheading of the unparalleled growth of our state’s crown jewel and most significant financial and educational and research institution. Finis St. John IV, better known by colleagues and older acquaintances as Fess, is widely respected. He knows Alabama, its history, and its attributes. His family settled in Alabama in 1838 and have been leaders in our state throughout the state’s history. Chancellor Finis “Fess� St. John was the most outstanding leader on campus during his four years at the University of Alabama in the 1970s. He graduated magna cum
laude and was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa and ODK and graduated with honors. After his undergraduate process at the Capstone, he was accepted and proceeded to the prestigious University of Virginia School of Law. He graduated at the top of his law school class in 1982 and clerked for a federal judge for a while before coming home to Cullman to join his family law firm. The St. John law firm in Cullman, that Fess joined 36 years ago, is one of Alabama’s oldest law firms. The St. John family has a long and distinguished history of service. His father, grandfather and great grandfather served in the
Alabama Legislature. His mother was the first female attorney in Cullman and his great great grandfather, who arrived in Cullman in 1838 and was soon elected to the Alabama General Assembly, was instrumental in creating our state’s public education system. Chancellor St. John understands and knows the history and potential of our state in a very unique way. This, coupled with his brilliant intellect, makes him ideal. If anyone was ever born to lead the current University of Alabama System, it is Finis “Fess� St. John, IV. See you next week.
Ider Discount Drugs
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FRIDAY — MARCH 6, 2020
THE SOUTHERN TORCHT
Voters Reject Amendment One By Zach Hester, Reporter • zach@southerntorch.com ALABAMA — On Tuesday, Alabama voters vehemently rejected a proposed statewide amendment that would have ceded the election of state school board members to appointments by the Governor. If it had succeeded, school board members would have been subject to confirmation by the Alabama Senate and serve six-year terms. "Amendment One was a bold and ambitious effort to transform our state's public schools," said Governor Kay Ivey in a statement, provided by her press secretary, Gina Maiola. "However, it appears the fear of losing the right to elect our State School Board members was greater than the confidence we had that fundamental change could be made." Nearly 75 percent of voters rejected the amendment, according to uncertified results. In DeKalb County, the proposed amendment failed by a margin of 10,962 (80.31%) votes against it compared to the 2,687 (19.69%) votes in its favor. "Amendment one is not where her [Governor Ivey] plans for education stop, and you'll see her [Governor Ivey] continue to be more innovative and creative with her approach to improving Alabama," the statement concluded. Alabama is one of 11 states, along with the District of Columbia, that still elect state school board members.
Asst. Police Chief Jeff Buckles (Marla Jones | Southern Torch)
that officer was to terminate based on clear violations of the Town Police Procedural manual.� “Officer Buckles was very apologetic and in my opinion never intended for his post to be a threat to anyone, but it clearly violated our policy on social media,� Ables continued. “He has been a very good officer for us over the past two years and always been a good ambassador for our Town. I had a very pleasant conversation with him after the meeting and I appreciate his contrite spirit and I assured him I would help him any way I can and I believe he will do the same for me. He understands a mistake was made and I believe we made the correct decision after going through the prescribed procedures. I truly wish the best for him.� Southern Torch reached out to Buckles for public comment, but he stated that no comments could be made at this time.
Burt Funeral H omes
Leeman V. Dunn - 89, passed away on Tuesday, February 25. Funeral services were held at 1pm on Saturday, February 29 at Burt Chapel-Fort Payne with burial in Stewart Cemetery with masonic honors. Robert Austin Rogers III - 61 of Centre, passed away on Wednesday, February 26. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Sunday, March 1 at Burt Chapel-Fort Payne with burial in Collinsville Cemetery. Carol Lake Kercheval - 75 of Fort Payne, formerly of Saluda, N.C., passed away on Monday, March 2. No services are planned at this time.
Mickey Woods - 62 of Powell, passed away on Tuesday, February 25. Funeral services were held at 3:30pm on Thursday, February 27 at Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel with burial in New Bethel Cemetery.
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since 1982
BURT
RAINSVILLE
BUCKLES
of Geraldine. “I feel that this was blown out of proportion, and could’ve been handled in-house,� said Harris. “I feel that the Council was pressured because this situation was handled by comments on Facebook. I voted for what I thought was right for Buckles and the Town of Geraldine. It may not have been by the law, but it’s what I felt was right.� A Geraldine citizen attempted to speak in favor of Buckles, during the meeting, despite the Council stating it would not be taking public comments. Tensions rose between the citizen, identified as Gerald Tillman, and Mayor Chuck Ables, who stated that if he wanted to stay, he would have to remain quiet. Last week, the Council held a special called meeting to have a due process hearing. Buckles chose to have his side of the story told in a private meeting with Town Attorney Nikki Scott and his own personal third-party, impartial lawyer. “Officer Buckles had a due process hearing on February 25 with his attorney and an ‘impartial hearing officer’,� said Mayor Chuck Ables. “The recommendation from
DEATH NOTICES
since 1969
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@
Traditional funeral, cremation and monument services
Ray Bell - 68 of Fort Payne, passed away on Saturday, February 29. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Tuesday, March 3 at Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel with burial in DeKalb Memorial Gardens. Marlena Williams Owens - 40 of Fyffe, passed away on Saturday, February 29. A graveside service was held at 12pm on Monday, March 2 at Kirk Memorial Gardens.
W.T. WILSON Billy McGatha - 56 of Attalla, passed away on Tuesday, February 25. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Saturday, February 29 at Tabor Church of God with burial in Fairview Methodist Church Cemetery in Centre. Barbara Tidwell - 68 of Fyffe, passed away on Wednesday, February 26. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Saturday, February 29 at W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with burial in Green’s Chapel Cemetery. David James Lee - 66 of Albertville, passed away on Thursday, February 27. A visitation only will be held from 4:30pm to 8pm on Monday, March 2 at W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel. Joseph Milford Cowart - 91 of Fyffe, passed away on Thursday, February 27. Funeral services were held at 1pm on Sunday, March 1
at W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with burial in Mountain View Memory Gardens. Patsy Ann Peppers Carroll - 67 of Albertville, passed away on Friday, February 28. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Monday, March 2 at W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with burial in Myrtletree Baptist Church Cemetery in Albertville. Theron Claude Pruett - 89 of Grove Oak, passed away on Saturday, February 29. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Tuesday, March 3 at Piney Grove Baptist Church with burial in the adjoining cemetery. Eloise Rice - 91 of Dawson, passed away on Monday, March 2. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Wednesday, March 4 at W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with burial in Liberty Church Cemetery in the McEstes community.
WILSON Paula Bobo Davis - 65 of Fort Payne, passed away on Wednesday, February 26. Funeral services were held at 3pm on Sunday, March 1 at New Oregon United Methodist Church with burial in Fischer Cemetery. Noah Lod Dobbs - 93 of Fort Payne, passed away on Sunday, March 1. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Saturday, March 7 at Wilson Funeral Home Chapel with burial in Walkers Chapel Cemetery with military honors.
CORNER STONE Beulah Marie Cole - 75 of Nashville, Tenn., passed away on Friday, February 28. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Sunday, March 1 at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel with burial in Green Haven Memorial Gardens. Brian Adam Dunn - 32 of Flat Rock, passed away on Saturday, February 29. Funeral services were held at 3pm on Tuesday, March 3 at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel with burial in Maxwell Cemetery. Rebecca Jean Stone - 76 of Flat Rock, passed away on Sunday, March 1. Arrangements are incomplete at this time and will be announced shortly.
Board Recognizes Students Who Excelled By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com
RAINSVILLE, Ala.--The DeKalb County Board of Education held its monthly meeting on February 27. The Board recognized students, Jordan Sosebee and Collin Mayfield for their recent achievements. Sosebee of Plainview High School was the 2019-2020 Spelling Bee Winner. He also was awarded the Tommie Johnson Spelling Bee Award. Mayfield of Geraldine High School was recognized as the State Champion om Cross Country & 800m, 1600m, and 3200m Indoor Track. The board also recognized early graduate Jada Williams of Geraldine High School. The Board approved the purchase of two new school buses. The first being a 2021 Class “Câ€? 72 Passenger School Bus from Southland International in the amount of $82,807.94. The second being a 2021 Class “Câ€? 54 Passenger School Bus from Southland International in the amount of $95,702.70 The following on the job injury was approved: • Deborah Traylor CNP Worker - Plainview High School - 3 days The following Retirements/Resignations were approved: • Victoria Williams CNP Worker - Fyffe High School - Retirement - 3/1/20 • Kimmy Hanners CNP Worker - Geraldine High School - Retirement - 3/1/20 • Penny Brown Assistant Secretary (9 month) - Collinsville High School - Retirement 6/1/20 • Ernie WillinghamTeacher and Varsity Football CoachCollinsville High School-Retirement6/1/20 • Peggy Diane Smalley - Nurse (9 month) Sylvania High School Retirement - 6/1/20 • Terry White Mechanic (12 month) Transportation - Retirement - 4/1/20 • Daisy Ortega Itinerant Migrant Home Liaison - System Resignation - 1/24/20 • Tanya Ford - Jr. High/ Assistant Volleyball Coaching Duties Only Collinsville High School - Resignation - 8/1/20 The following leave of absences was granted: • Misty McAllister Elementary Teacher Henagar Jr.
High School - 12/23/19-2/17/20 (Extended from 2/3/20) • Teresa Word Elementary Teacher Crossville Elementary School - 9/16/19-4/1/20 (Extended from 3/1/20) • Susan Lowden Pre-K Auxiliary Geraldine High School 8/21/19-3/27/20 (Extended from 2/14/20) The following placements were made: Certified: • Misty Turner Elementary Teacher (Leave only from 2/3/20-4/3/20) - Sylvania High School (2020-008) (Retroactive to 2/3/20) • Angelina Power English Language Art (Leave only from 1/27/20-2/25/20) - Plainview High School (2020-009) (Retroactive to 2/10/20) • Amber Brown Elementary Teacher (Leave only from 9/16/19-3/1/20) - Crossville Elementary School (2020-010) (Retroactive to 10/17/19) Support • Tony Callaham Mechanic - Bus Garage • Brenda GembeBautista - Itinerant Migrant Home Liaison • Stephanie Lacey Bus Driver - Tech Route Only - Crossville High School • Tammy Richey Itinerant Special Education Aide/ Paraprofessional - Geraldine High School • Kimberly Sprouse - CNP Worker Geraldine High School (Effective March 1, 2020) • Dwight Rusk - Bus Driver - Crossville Middle School(Effective March 1, 2020) • Kanaan CoppockMaintenance- Facilities Building Volunteer Coaches at Geraldine High School •Terry Fricks - Baseball • Anthony Norwood - Baseball Volunteer Coaches at Sylvania High School • Tony Griffin - Golf • Brett Vinson - Soccer The Board approved the purchase of a Chevrolet Tahoe the amount of $35,025.00 for Superintendent of Education Dr. Jason Barnett. Dr. Barnett is currently using his personal car for required travel and is not turning in gas mileage. The date of the next meeting will be March 30 at 12pm.
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FRIDAY — MARCH 6, 2020
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
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FRIDAY — MARCH 6, 2020
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
Saturday, March 28 at 6PM at DeKalb County Schools Coliseum
STATE CHAMPIONS
Collinsville & Pisgah Take State
(Photo by Marla Jones | Southern Torch)
(Photo by Marla Jones | Southern Torch)
Submitted by The Alabama High School Athletic Association
Submitted by The Alabama High School Athletic Association
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – For the first time in Collinsville High School history, the Lady Panthers are State Champions. Collinsville High School’s Lady Panthers looked like they had been there before Friday morning as girls played in their first state basketball championship game in school history. Junior guard Hadley Hamilton made the first two 3-point shots she attempted and the Panthers matched Cold Springs step for step as Collinsville (29-3) beat the defending Class 2A state champions 58-45 to claim the AHSAA Class 2A state title. The Class 2A girls’ finals opened Championship Friday at the 98th AHSAA State Basketball Championships being held at Birmingham’s BJCC Legacy Arena. The championship was Collinsville’s first. Cold Springs (31-5) has won four state crowns including the 2019 title. Hamilton finished with 16 points, going 4-for-8 from the 3-point arc and making all four free throws she attempted. Senior forward Brittany Rivera had 11 points and 13 rebounds to earn Class 2A state tourney MVP honors. She also had five assists, five steals and one blocked shot. Olivia Akins added 16 points and Tyla Tatum 13. Collinsville was 13-of-14 at the foul line for the game and 5-of-16 on 3-pointers. Cold Springs’ Lady Eagles, coached by Tammy West, led the nation in 3-point shooting last season and ranked among the nation’s top five this season. In Friday’s finals junior guard Toni West sank 5-of-9 and the team was 8-for-24. The difference came at the foul line, Cold Springs was 7-of-11, and on the boards. Collinsville out-rebounded the Eagles 32-19. West finished with 17 points and Elizabeth Hill added 13 points for Cold Springs. Elizabeth Neely had eight – six coming on two 3-pointers.
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Defending state champion Pisgah jumped out to an 18-point lead by halftime and then staved off T.R. Miller’s strong comeback effort as the Eagles won their third Class 3A state title in a row with 59-52 win at the 98th AHSAA State Basketball Championships at the BJCC Legacy Arena Friday afternoon. Pisgah (31-3), which graduated eight seniors from the 2019 3A state championship team, used some solid outside shooting and sure-handed play by its guards to seal the 2020 state crown. Chloe Womack had 16 points
and 10 rebounds to lead the Eagles, coached by Carey Ellison. The 5-foot-8 senior had one 3-pointer. Sophomore Molly Heard sank two of Pisgah’s seven 3-point goals and finished with 19 points and eight rebounds. Freshman guard Kallie Tinker finished with 10 points, four rebounds, made two 3-pointers and dished out three assists. T.R. Miller (28-2), coached by Ronald Jackson, was paced by Aleria Smith’s 14 points and 12 rebounds. Raivon Ewing had 12 points and nine rebounds and Ja’Nazsia Nettles contributed nine points. The loss snapped a 16-game winning streak. Ellison, who has coached Pisgah to six of its eight state titles, won
the 625th game of his coaching career with the championship game victory. He is now 625-155 with state championships in 1997, 2003, 2005, 2018, 2019 and now, 2020. T.R. Miller’s Jackson has guided the Tigers to four state crowns (1995, 1996, 2002 and 2009). Friday’s championship day schedule concludes with 4A girls’ title game at 4 p.m. featuring Deshler and Anniston, and the 4A boys’ championship at 5:45 featuring defending state champion Talladega versus Williamson. Classes 5A, 6A, and 7A conclude the 2020 state tournament with girls’ and boys’ championships Saturday.
Woodalls Continue Basketball Careers
Blair Continues Football Career
Marie and Maggie Woodall of Fyffe recently signed with Gadsden State Community College to further their basketball careers. Pictured with the twins are their mother Kristie, Gadsden State Head Coach Bryan Phillips, Fyffe Principal Wayne Lyles, and Fyffe Lady Red Devils Head Basketball Coach Steve King. (Cheryl Boydston)
Ian Blair of the Valley Head Tigers, plans to continue his football career at Shorter University. He is pictured here with his parents, Melanie and Jamie, and Valley Head principal Heath Kirby and Valley Head Head Coach Football Coach Heath Vincent. (Submitted Photo)
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FRIDAY — MARCH 6, 2020
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
.
Old Timers Basketball Geraldine Softball Wins Fort Payne Invitational
By Marla Jones, Sports Editor
marla@southerntorch.com
RAINSVILLE, Ala. — The Long Ranch 4 Boys Old Timers Basketball Tournament is underway at the DeKalb County Schools Coliseum. The tournament began on Saturday, February 29, and the championship game will be held on Saturday, March 7. All proceeds will benefit the Long Ranch 4Boys, is an overflow of passion and a calling founded by Paul, Kristy, Crimson, and Japeth Long and their desire to minister to boys ages 5-18.
(Submitted Photo) By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com Jeff Helton makes a perfect three-pointer at the Old Timers Basketball Tournament. (Mandy Helton Photography)
FORT PAYNE, Ala. – The Geraldine Lady
Bulldogs Softball Team were undefeated and won the Fort Payne Invitational this weekend. The Lady Bulldogs defeated
Gaylesville, 6-0; North Sand Mountain, 6-0; Ider 6-1; Etowah, 4-3; and Scottsboro, 7-6 to win the championship.
CONGRATULATIONS TO
Collinsville & Pisgah CALL MARLA AT 256.638.4040 or 256.605.4427
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