The Southern Torch — Vol. 6, No. 11

HIT A HOME RUN WITH TWIN CITY! 1411 Glenn Blvd SW, Fort Payne, AL 35967

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THE SOUTHERN TORCH / FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2020 / VOL. 6, NO. 11 / $1.00 THIS WEEK IN SPORTS • Sand Mountain Super 6 • All-DeKalb County Honors

THIS WEEK IN BUSINESS

• Liberty Bank Opens Operations Center • See Who's Featured in our Spotlight!

LIKE

THIS WEEK IN POLITICS

• Brown to Run for Valley Head Mayor • Inside The Statehouse with Steve Flowers

FOLLOW

TWEET

THIS WEEK IN COMMUNITY • NACC Music Celebrates WHM • HCL Name Woman of the Year

WILD COUNTRY NABS FIRST ABBY

By Marla Jones Managing Editor

marla@southerntorch.com BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — On Saturday, 98-3 Wild Country (WKEA-FM), Southern Torch’s flagship radio station, won its first Alabama Broadcasters Association (ABA) Award.

The award, which was given out at The Club in Birmingham, was in the “Small Market Event/ Client Promotion� category for “Bruce’s Foodland: Wiener an Hour.� “I am honored and thrilled to bring home the Alabama Broadcasters

Association 2020 Best in Broadcasting Award for Client Promotion,� said Jenna Sue Payne, Southern Torch Media Sales Manager. “It was Bruce’s Foodland Stores’ 40th anniversary. They have been on the air with me continuously for over 15 years.�

Bruce’s Foodland has been a long-standing client and believes that radio advertising is still the most effective way to reach the most consumers. Their family-owned business also supports many charities and nonprofits in our communities. Bruce’s Foodland Stores have been

DeKalb Regional: What to Do About COVID-19

serving North Alabama residents for over three decades. “It is thrilling because this was Southern Torch’s first ABBY Award,� Payne continued. “Local radio offers creativity and immediate access to your potential customer. I’m especially thankful to my radio partner, Joe Sims, for being a great producer, and thank you to all our listeners at 98-3 Wild Country and 101-7 The Torch.�

From all of us at Southern Torch, thank you to the Alabama Broadcasters Association for this great honor.

PICTURED (L to R): Account Executives Jodi Skinner and Beverly Annette Little, Accountant Lindsey Jones, President Nick Jones, and Media Sales Manager Jenna Sue Payne.

Nap Time Gone Wrong

(File Photo)

By Zach Hester Reporter zach@southerntorch.com FORT PAYNE, Ala. — Last week, DeKalb Regional Medical Center released a statement regarding what to do if you experience symptoms of COVID-19, also known as the coronavirus.

Symptoms, which may appear two to 14 days after exposure, include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Those experiencing these symptoms are encouraged to stay home unless receiving medical care.

In their statement, DeKalb Regional Medical Center laid out three points for a plan of action if you believe you may have COVID-19: Before seeking care, call your healthcare provider and tell them that you have, or are being evaluated for, COVID-19.

Put on a facemask before you enter the facility, or as soon as possible. These steps will help the healthcare provider's office to keep other people in the office or waiting room from

>> VIRUS, P6

A letter was sent to parents of a class at The Roc Learning Center this week regarding a teacher who dispensed melatonin to children. (Amy Thrash | Southern Torch)

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

FORT PAYNE, Ala. — Earlier this week, a report was made regarding a K3 teacher dispensing melatonin to children at The Roc

Learning Center in Fort Payne.

While reports are unclear on how long this occurred or how many students were affected, a letter was sent out to parents regarding the situation.

In a statement made

• LISTEN TO 98-3 WILD COUNTRY & 101-7 THE TORCH

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•

to Southern Torch, The Roc owner Steve Cornelius stated the employee had been terminated and the case was turned over to the DeKalb County Department of Human Resources (DHR).

DHR Director Denise

Rains stated she could not confirm or deny any information regarding the situation.

Southern Torch received a copy of the letter on Wednesday,

>> THE ROC, P4

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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FRIDAY — MARCH 13, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

HIT A HOME RUN WITH TWIN CITY! 1411 Glenn Blvd SW, Fort Payne, AL 35967

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@JACKSONBLAZEAL

BIGGER THAN HMC Focused on Preparedness BASKETBALL: and Prevention with COVID-19

NSM to Play Alumni Game in Memory of Teammate

By Dylan Smith, Jackson Blaze Managing Editor dylan@southerntorch.com HIGDON, Ala. — Former student-athletes of North Sand Mountain High School will participate in an alumni game in honor and memory of beloved basketball star, Nick Baker.

Baker, a 2011 graduate of NSM, passed away last month at the age of 27.

The memorial game will take place Friday, March 20th at 6:00 P.M. CST. The game will be hosted at North Sand Mountain High School, the same court on which Baker left his mark playing the sport he loved.

Roy Nicholas Baker is survived by three children, his wife, two brothers, parents, and an entire community that cherishes his memory.

The memorial game, Bigger than Basketball, will serve as an opportunity for friends and former teammates to gather and reminisce about the times they shared with Nick.

Organizing the event is Baker’s cousin, Dakota Smith. “The reason I felt lead to put on a game like this is because he’s our family, he’s our friend,� said Smith. “It’s something the community needs and it’s always a good way to come together, that’s what’s so good about sports.

At the end of the day, it’s just a game, but this is something that’s bigger than basketball.�

Smith noted Baker’s love for the game. “Nick lived in the gym, he had one of the best shots you’ve ever seen. He was one of the best players that’s ever played at the school.�

This is truly an example of how a tight-knit community comes together during trying times to celebrate the life of someone who was so beloved by all who were blessed to know him.

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

Your loyal companion, Our dedicated focus!

By Jackson Blaze Staff JACKSON COUNTY, Ala. — While no cases of the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 have been identified in Alabama at this time, state and local health care organizations are preparing for the spread of the virus.

Highlands Medical Center is coordinating with the Alabama Department of Public Health to stay informed of the latest development with the virus and will continue to work with public health officials to stay as prepared as possible.

During a press conference this week, Dr. Scott Harris, Alabama’s state health officer said, “We have been working since mid-January primarily with prevention activities, but also at the same time we’ve been in the planning stage for the possibility of the virus circulating at some time in our state.�

The state has received tests from the CDC and is training staff on how to use them. However, according to Dr. Harris, people should self-monitor illness first, and not rush to be tested. “We feel very comfortable at this time to say we don’t have the disease circulating in our

community,� he said. “Most people are not likely going to need testing.� Tests will only be given to those patients who meet the CDC criteria for testing.

HMC has taken the precaution to ensure the safety of patients and staff by developing processes to properly screen and isolate people who meet the CDC criteria for the virus. Dr. Lonnie Albin, Chief Medical Officer at HMC, said. “We have not had any patients at our facility meet the CDC criteria for testing.

However, our focus is on being prepared by following the CDC and Alabama Department of Public Health guidelines in case the virus spreads to our community.�

Media reports indicate that consumers are rushing to local retailers to purchase masks, causing a shortage of supply. It is

not recommended by the CDC that the general population wear a mask for protection. Facemasks are to be worn by patients to prevent contamination of the surrounding area when they cough or sneeze.

Wearing a mask could give a false sense of security because if not adequately sealed to the face, airborne particles can still enter through the sides. Masks should be reserved for infected patients and medical staff. HMC has received requests from the public for masks but is unable provide any medical supplies, including masks, gowns or gloves to the general public as these items must be reserved for patients and the staff treating them. For the protection and the prevention of spreading any virus, community residents should practice

good hygiene, avoid being around people who are sick, and stay at home when sick, except to get medical care. Everyone is encouraged to visit the CDCs website at www.CDC. gov or the Alabama Department of Health website at www.

AlabamaPublicHealth.gov to learn ways to protect yourself and others. “The goal of any virus is to minimize the spread.

Using common-sense actions like washing your hands with soap and water, covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue you throw in the trash, and avoiding sick people are some of the best ways to protect yourself from getting a virus, including this one,� said Dr. Albin. “If you develop symptoms of the virus, contact your health care provider.�

Murder Investigation in Hollywood

By B.A. Little Reporter beverlyannette@ southerntorch.com

HOLLYWOOD, Ala. — According to the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Eric Maurice Scott, 37 of Hollywood, was booked into the Jackson County Jail on a homicide charge.

The investigation, which began in Hollywood, began when deputies responded to a call on County Road 36 on Monday afternoon, where a woman was found dead.

Chief Deputy Rocky Harnen stated that Scott was in custody and will be charged with murder. The victim’s name has not yet been released.

UPDATE 1: The man arrested for murder was a

member of Huntsville’s former arena football teams, The Tennessee Valley Vipers and The Alabama Hammers.

Full Release from the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office: On Monday March 09, 2020 at approximately 2:35 PM the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office received a call regarding a person being shot at a residence on County Road 36 in Hollywood, AL. Personnel from the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Hollywood Police Department responded to the scene and verbally made contact with the suspect (Eric SCOTT) who was still inside the residence. SCOTT refused to exit the residence and made threats to Law

Eric Maurice Scott (Jackson County Sheriff's Office)

Enforcement. Deputies deployed tear gas into the residence but SCOTT again refused to exit. Based on the belief that someone was shot inside the residence, Deputies and Officers made entry into the residence and took SCOTT into custody.

Subsequently the body of a female (later identified as

Anna Grogan BROWN age 45 of Scottsboro, AL.) was located inside the residence. BROWN was pronounced dead on the scene by the Jackson County Coroner.

SCOTT age 36 of Hollywood, AL. was arrested and charged with Murder in connection to this investigation. SCOTT was transported to the Jackson County Jail and booked without incident.

Bond has not yet been set and this investigation is continuing.

Special thanks to the Hollywood Police Department, Hollywood Fire Department, Jackson County Coroner’s Office and Highlands Ambulance Service for their rapid response and critical assistance during this case.

TAX SERVICE

FRIDAY — MARCH 13, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

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COMMUNITY

DeKalb Homemakers NACC Music Celebrates Name Woman of the Year Women's History Month

By Zach Hester Reporter zach@southerntorch.com DeKALB COUNTY, Ala. — Last month, the DeKalb County Homemakers and Community Leaders (HCL) Club met at the Fort Payne Senior Center to hold their annual awards day. Janice Smith of Crossville was named "Woman of the Year."

Members from all seven of the county clubs (Crossville, Geraldine, Ider, Joyful Hearts, Lookout Mountain, Portersville, and Tenbroeck) were in attendance. The meeting's guest speaker was DeKalb County Probate Judge Ronnie Osborn.

In order to be named Woman of the Year, each

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Janice Smith of Crossville was named Woman of the Year by the DeKalb County Homemakers and Community Leaders Club. (Submitted Photo)

HCL club nominates one outstanding member to be considered. This year's nominees were Janice Smith of Crossville (winner), Angelia Camp of Geraldine, Katherine Gamble of Ider, Theda Wills of Lookout Mountain, and Jeanette Robinson of Tenbroeck.

Joyful Hearts did not submit a nomination this

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year. Robinson, who passed away before the event, was named "Honorary Woman of the Year." Her family was in attendance and accepted the award on her behalf.

"We are looking forward to another fun-filled, successful year with the HCL," said Carolyn W. Boatner, media coordinator for HCL Club.

"Summerfest, our annual celebration, will be coming up in August. You are invited for a day of crafting, entertainment and lunch."

Anyone who wishes to become a member of the DeKalb County Homemakers and Community Leaders, please contact an individual club or DeKalb County Club President Christine Ashley at (256) 393-3462 or visit their website at dekalbalhcl. com.

By Southern Torch Staff DUTTON, Ala. — Northeast Alabama Community College’s (NACC) Music Department presents “Each Life Has Its Place� featuring women’s history and women’s music. The concert will take place on Wednesday, March 18 th at 12PM in the Student Center. A celebration of Women’s History Month, this concert will be a collaboration between the NACC Vocal Ensembles and Mustang String Band, plus a few surprise faculty performers!

The department is excited to feature music by female singer/songwriters, including Carole King, Joni Mitchell, Stevie Nicks, and Dolly Parton. A fun number for this concert is Patsy Montana’s 1935 hit “I Want to Be A Cowboy’s

Sweetheart�, the first song by a woman to sell over one million copies. “Over the past few years there’s been a really exciting and necessary conversation happening around gender inequality in music. Some of the largest names on concert stages around the world are women, but less than 2% of popular music is produced by women. Male performers receive nearly 80% of the air play on radio stations across the country, and 90% of the last decade’s Grammy nominees were men. I am always happy to shine the spotlight on exceptional

women! The songwriters that we are featuring at this concert are many of our absolute favorites,� said NACC’s Director of Vocal Music Ensembles and Music Instructor Sara Markham.

About 35 students make up NACC’s three ensembles: NACC Chorus, Encore! and the Mustang String Band. Several students perform in multiple ensembles.

Contact Sara Markham, Instructor of Vocal Ensembles, at markhams@ nacc.edu for more information about this concert or about NACC’s Music Department.

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!

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

Every Monday, Sons

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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

TEACHER OF THE WEEK

d

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. For more information, please call Olivia Kendrick at (256) 454-4375.

March 21, Third Saturday Sunset Cruise-In - The City of Fort Payne's Third Saturday

MRS. AMANDA HICKS OF WILLIAMS AVENUE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 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

256.638.4040 • 256.259.2341 MEMBERSHIP RATES:

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

Sunset Cruise-In will be held at 5pm on Saturday, March 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.

Terrell Chiropractic, LLC OPEN SIX DAYS A WEEK!

Dr. Robert Terrell Dr. Jeff Parker Mon-Wed Thu-Fri Saturday 8:30-5:30 8:30-5:30 8:30-12

65 McCurdy Ave S, Rainsville, AL 35986 Phone: (256) 638-9393 • Fax: (256) 638-9395

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FRIDAY — MARCH 13, 2020

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Southern Gold & Silver QUALITY JEWELRY

226 Gault Ave. N • Fort Payne, AL 35967 Phone: 256-845-5680 Fax: 256-845-5165

James Allensworth • allensworthgold@aol.com

1706 Glenn Blvd., Suite 4

Fort Payne, AL 35968 • (256) 997-7591

Woody’s

Steak & Seafood Tuesday-Thursday — 10:30-7 Friday & Saturday — 10:30-8 Sunday — 11-4:30

105 Co. Rd. 89 in Fort Payne / Dogtown

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LEGALS

LEGALS

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA

IN THE JUVENILE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA

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.

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.

LEAH M. MCELMOYL, Personal Representative of the Estate of ALMA RUTH PARMER, deceased To be published: February 28, March 6, and March 13

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THE FISHERMEN SOUTHERN GOSPEL QUARTET For bookings call: Glenn Smith (256) 572-6146 Check us out on Facebook

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE beverlyannette@southerntorch.com Office: 256.259.2341 Cell: 256.653.7099

NOTICE TO FILE CLAIMS

Office: 256.259.2341 Cell: 256.735.3699

B. ANNETTE LITTLE

IN RE: The Estate of Alma Ruth Parmer, deceased

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

jodi@southerntorch.com

256.638.4848

333 DILBECK RD IN RAINSVILLE

Case No.: 2020-44

JODI SKINNER

Case No.: JU-2019-266.02 IN THE MATTER OF MICHAEL KOHYN MURDOCK To Krystal Dawn Murdock, mother of the minor child M. K. M., DOB: 4-20-19, whose whereabouts are unknown, you must answer the Petition to Terminate Parental Rights and other relief by April 30, 2020 or thereafter a judgment of default may be rendered against you in JU-2019-266.02, Juvenile Court of DeKalb County, Alabama.

Law Office of Glenn A. Shedd P.O. Box 681105 Fort Payne, AL 35968 To be published: March 13, March 20, and March 27

THE ROC FROM PAGE 1

which stated: "Parents, it came to my attention that a teacher had given melatonin to some children in the K3 room.

Under further investigation, it was determined that she had in fact given it to some of the kids. It is unclear who she gave them to but that she had given it to some.

The employee was immediately written up and has been terminated. I apologize for this and as always will continue to do my best to take care of your children to the best of my abilities.

If you have any questions, please feel free to call me anytime."

KANDIELAND DAY CARE CEN ER

256.638.4848

333 DILBECK RD IN RAINSVILLE

Liberty Bank Opens New Operations Center

Liberty Bank held a ribbon cutting on Wednesday for the grand opening of a new operations center. Pictured are bank employees, including President Chris Bailey, as well as community leaders, including Geraldine Mayor Chuck Ables and Councilman/DeKalb County Commissioner-elect Terry Harris. (Photo via Liberty Bank on Facebook)

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FRIDAY — MARCH 13, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

5

POLITICS

Brown to Run for Valley Head Mayor

By Zach Hester Reporter zach@southerntorch.com VALLEY HEAD, Ala. — Valley Head Town Councilman Jacob Brown has announced his candidacy for Mayor of Valley Head.

Brown is a lifelong resident of Valley Head and cites his experience as a council member, certification in public government management, partnership with the Alabama City-County Management Association, and a passion for his community as his qualifications for seeking the office.

"I feel a burden for my hometown; my heart is breaking for the town that once shined," said Brown.

"I feel that God has led me to this decision point, and I must act."

Brown has a doctorate from Middle Tennessee State University, where he learned strategic planning, talent management, and leadership skills. He and his family are members of the Fort Payne Family Worship Center.

If elected, Brown states his main goal would be community unification.

Brown says his "Aim Higher" initiative encompasses those qualities of life improvements, including partnerships with local

(Submitted Photo)

schools and churches, safety initiatives through the police and fire departments, and community clean-up.

"Quality of life is a key factor in recruiting new businesses, investors, and citizens to our community," Brown stated. "As Mayor, my main priority will be to transform how citizens view the local government.

We are not kings sitting in an ivory tower, but rather neighbors. Local government is a tool that should be used to support the quality of life and well being of ALL individuals and businesses that are part of our community. We must work together to make our community the very best for our citizens today and the children of the future."

Municipal elections in DeKalb County will be held on Tuesday, August 25, 2020.

INSIDE THE STATEHOUSE

By Steve Flowers Political Columnist

MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Allow me to share some thoughts and analysis on the March 3rd Primary results.

The Primary is referred to as the Presidential Preference Primary. Voters choose which Party Primary they want to vote in and which presidential candidate they prefer to be their Party’s nominee.

The turnout was amazingly high, despite rain and inclement weather over the State.

1,168,000 Alabamians voted. 755,000 voted in the Republican Primary and 450,000 voted in the Democratic Primary. That equates to 62% Republican and 38% Democratic voters.

It is my assessment that the same percentage is exactly what the outcome of the Presidential Race will look like in November.

President Donald Trump carried Alabama with 63% in 2016 and that is about what the numbers will look like in the fall General Election. Trump will match his 2016 victory in the State.

It is my opinion that Trump’s popularity among Republican voters is what accounted for the large voter turnout last Tuesday.

Conservative Alabama

voters came out in droves to display their approval and loyalty to the Don. This 62% to 38% GOP advantage seems to be the benchmark for a Republican versus Democratic contest in the State. This does not bode well for our liberal anomaly Democratic U.S. Senator Doug Jones who, over his two-year tenure, has voted to impeach Trump and sports a voting record similar to Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren, Chuck Schumer, and Nancy Pelosi.

I will be surprised if Jones gets 40%, which is considered the ceiling for a Democrat in a statewide race in Alabama.

Joe Biden had a spectacular day in our state in the Democratic presidential contest. Biden received 63%. His closest challenger was Bernie Sanders who got 16%.

Alabama was an integral part of the building block for Biden’s Super Victory Day on Super Tuesday. Along with Alabama, the southern states of Virginia, Tennessee and North Carolina all fell in line to give Biden a pivotal southern impetus that has propelled him into becoming the Democratic frontrunner. He is the only semi-moderate candidate left standing in the Democratic field. It is now Joe Biden versus Bernie Sanders in the Democratic race. The socialist Sanders

will probably arrive at the Democratic Convention with the most delegates, but a brokered convention will probably render Biden as the nominee to face Trump.

The race for the GOP nomination for the U.S. Senate seat currently held

by Doug Jones was the marquee event in the state races. This seat was held

by Senator Jeff Sessions for 20 years. He is probably very sorry he accepted the U.S. Attorney General role.

He entered the contest late and it is apparent that Trump’s vitriolic tweets over those three years were devastating to Sessions run to recapture his old seat. He received 31% of the Primary vote and will face former Auburn football coach, Tommy Tuberville, who actually bested Sessions with 32%.

Tuberville ran as a non-politician outsider and categorized Sessions and third-place finisher Bradley Byrne as Washington establishment insiders. Byrne who garnered 25% of the vote may have made the runoff if a Super PAC called the “Club for Growth� had not spent over $600,000 on negative ads against him.

Judge Roy Moore got 7%, and this probably ends the 73-year-old’s political career. However, Byrne’s good showing allows him the opportunity to make another race.

Incumbent Supreme Court Justice Greg Shaw defeated challenger State Senator Cam Ward by a 59 to 41 margin, in no small part to having the best-designed television ad of the campaign season, which ran the last week of the campaign.

State Representative Matt Fridy outdistanced Phillip Bahakel 66% to 34% in an open race for the Court of Criminal Appeals.

The two biggest winners in the GOP Primary were PSC President Twinkle Andress Cavanaugh and Court of Criminal Appeals Presiding Judge Mary Windom.

Twinkle got 74% against her opponent, and Mary Windom bested her challenger 70% to 30%.

The two open congressional races are headed for a March 31 runoff. In the 1st District, Mobile County Commissioner Jerry Carl led former State Senator Bill Hightower, narrowly, 39% to 37%. In the 2nd District Dothan businessman, Jeff Coleman received 39% to former Coffee County State Representative Barry Moore’s 21%. These two contests will be interesting to watch on March 31.

However, the big contest will be the runoff between Jeff Sessions and Tommy Tuberville for the U.S. Senate seat.

See you next week.

Mount High Cemetery.

following in Rainbow Memorial Gardens.

DEATH NOTICES W.T. WILSON Jerry Barron - 72 of Fyffe, passed away on Wednesday, March 4.

Funeral services were held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 7 at W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with burial in Green’s Chapel Cemetery.

Louise Townson - 85 of Henagar, passed away on Thursday, March 5.

Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 7 at W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with entombment in Green Haven Mausoleum.

Kenneth Lamar Davis - 82, passed away on Saturday, March 7. A graveside service was held at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, March 9 at Lathamville Church Cemetery.

Madeline Cerena Wells - 69 of Sylvania, passed away on Friday, March 6. Funeral services were held at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, March 10 at W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with burial in Wesley’s Chapel Cemetery.

James Robbins - 89 of Collinsville, passed away on Saturday, March 7. Funeral services were held at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, March 10 at W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with burial in Longshore Cemetery.

be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 14 with burial in Geraldine Cemetery.

BURT

Anthony Lee Poole - 40, passed away on Saturday, March 7. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Marlene W. Dahl - 85 of Fort Payne, passed away on Monday, May 9.

Funeral services were held at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, March 10 at Burt Chapel-Fort Payne with burial in Jennings Cemetery.

Bobby Wayne Godwin - 83 of Grove Oak, passed away on Sunday, March 8. Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, March 11 at W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with burial in Center Point Cemetery.

Edith Odell Ballenger - 91 of Fort Payne, passed away on Monday, March 9.

Funeral services were held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, March 12 at Burt Chapel-Fort Payne with burial in Walker’s Chapel Cemetery.

Frances Louise Bailey - 78 of Fort Payne, passed away on Monday, March 9. Funeral services were held at 3 p.m. on Thursday, March 12 at W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with burial in Beulah Chapel Cemetery.

Tonny Ray Gass - 62 of Valley Head, passed away on Monday, March 9. Funeral services will be announced at a later date.

Kay Frances Chafin - 82 of Geraldine, passed away on Tuesday, March 10. Funeral services will

KERBY Elzena Smith - 87 of Hueytown, passed away on Monday, March 9. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, March 11 at Kerby Funeral Home

Chapel with burial in Unity Cemetery.

Bobby Edward Terrell - 56 of Bryant, passed away on Monday, March 9. A visitation was held on Wednesday, March 11 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Kerby Funeral Home.

CROSSVILLE Thelma Louise Dunlap - 71 of Crossville, passed away on Saturday, March 7.

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, March 11 at Crossville Memorial Chapel with burial in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery.

CORNER STONE Carolyn Louise Cox - 77 of Henagar, passed away on Sunday, March 8. Memorial services will be held in Alabama and Georgia at a later date.

RAINSVILLE Connie Bludsworth - 43 of Rainsville, passed away on Friday, March 6.

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. on Monday, March 9 at Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel with burial in

Velma D. Kennemore - 90 of Dutton, passed away on Saturday, March 7.

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, March 10 at New Canaan Baptist Church with burial in Union Grove Cemetery.

Jeanette “Tootsie�

Lewis - 78 of Sylvania, passed away on Monday, March 9. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. on Friday, March 13 at Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel with burial in Town Creek Cemetery.

WILSON Dorotha “Dot�

Tucker - 92 of Rainbow City, formerly of Fort Payne, passed away on Wednesday, March 4.

Funeral services were held on Friday, March 6 at Meadowbrook Baptist Church with burial

Virginia Sue Morris - 58 of Gaylesville, formerly of Fort Payne, passed away on Sunday, March 8. Funeral services were held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, March 11 at Wilson Funeral Home Chapel with burial in Bankhead Cemetery.

Judy Marlene Tidmore - 72 of Valley Head, passed away on Monday, March 9.

Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, March 12 at Wilson Funeral Home with burial in Walker’s Chapel Cemetery.

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FRIDAY — MARCH 13, 2020

VIRUS

FROM PAGE 1 getting infected or exposed.

If you have a medical emergency and need to call 911, notify the dispatch personnel that you have, or are being evaluated for COVID-19. If possible, put on a facemask before emergency medical services arrive.

If you are sick, to keep from spreading respiratory illness to others, you should stay home when you are sick, cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, and clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

THE SOUTHERN TORCHT

Those mildly ill with COVID-19 are able to isolate at home during their illness. Healthcare professionals advise the need for frequent hand washing and avoidance of touching your face.

As of press time, 34 states and Washington, D.C. have confirmed cases of novel coronavirus with 21 deaths statewide — 18 in Washington state, two in Florida, and one in California.

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Commission Honors Rainsville Holds First Mary Nell Ridgeway 2020 Budget Meeting

By Marla Jones, Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

By Marla Jones, Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

DeKALB COUNTY, Ala. — At this week's meeting of the DeKalb County Commission, Commission President Ricky Harcrow recognized Rainsville resident Mary Nell Ridgeway who turned 100 on January 6, 2020.

Ridgeway lives in Rainsville and was born in Fyffe.

She was one of 12 children in her family. She was married to Wilfred Durham for 76 years, and has two daughters, Kyna Bowman and Gena McMinamin. Ridgeway has five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

During the meeting, the Commission passed: • Awarded bituminous surface treatment bid to Charles E. Watts Inc. for $816,301.12 • Gave Harcrow authorization to sign ALDOT FAET MOA Memorandum, which would give the county $400,000 annually in federal funds • Moved John Jackson from the DeKalb County Sheriff's Office (DSCO) to a salaried position at the Courthouse • Approved the AED Bid Award from ENS Superstore in the amount of $37,000 for defibulators at DSCO • Hired Jeff McCurdy as the County Attorney The next meeting of the DeKalb County Commission will be held at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, March 24, 2020.

RAINSVILLE, Ala. — On Monday, the Rainsville City Council held its first budget meeting of 2020.

Accountant Betty Holcomb advised the Council that the original budget surplus was $103,633.

In November 2019, the Council voted to give pay raises in the amount of $77,364, which is equivalent to a $.60 per hour raise.

With the remaining funds, annual raises were recommended for the Rainsville Police and Fire Chiefs ($7,080), the City Clerk ($4,130), the Court Clerk ($3,540), and the sewer operator ($5,900 transferred from the sewer fund). The budget would have to be amended by $30,000 to accomodate these raises.

Councilmember Marshall Stiefel said while he had "no problem" with adjusting the budget to fund raises, he was frustrated with only hearing the information for the first time at the meeting, instead of prior to the meeting, like all the other councilmembers. Mayor Rodger Lingerfelt apologized for not keeping Stiefel up to date.

Councilmember Ricky Byrum stated that to keep a good sewer operator with plenty of training that pay must be increased.

Holcomb set the amount for governmental revenues in the 2019-2020 general fund budget at $4,519,500.

Mayor Rodger Lingerfelt asked the Council to consider moving someone from part-time to full-time in the street department for mowing and various other City jobs, along with the above budget changes.

Next week, steps will be taken to vote to amend the budget at the council meeting on Monday, March 16.

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FRIDAY — MARCH 13, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Saturday, March 28 at 6PM at DeKalb County Schools Coliseum

2020 All-DeKalb County Honors & Sand Mountain Super 6 All-DeKalb County Girls

All-DeKalb County Boys

• MVP: Brittany Rivera • Most Outstanding Defensive Player: Maggie McKinney

• MVP: Parker Godwin • Most Outstanding Defensive Player: Micah Johnson, Fyffe • Most Outstanding Offensive Player: Cole Millican, Plainview

The following players were selected for All-County Honors: Olivia Akins, Collinsville; Makayla Bullock, Sylvania; Kaleigh Carson, Ider; Leianna Currie, Sylvania; Gracie Flynn, Ider; Hadley Hamilton, Collinsville; Gracey Johnson, Geraldine; Kenadie Lee, Sylvania; Madison Myers, Fyffe; Savannah Seals, Ider; Tyla Tatum, Collinsville; Tobi Trotter, Plainview; Marie Woodall, Fyffe; and Maggie Woodall, Fyffe.

The following players were selected for AllCounty Honors: Grant Atchley, Sylvania; Ridge Berry, Geraldine; Blake Bouldin, Crossville; Austin Buster, Fyffe; Brody Dalton, Fyffe; Gabe Gardner, Fyffe; Kaejuan Hatley, Geraldine; Caleb Jones, Collinsville; Isaac Jones, Collinsville; Griffin Knight, Geraldine; Luke Smith, Plainview; Josh Tinker, Sylvania; Jonah Williams, Plainview; Tristan Willingham, Plainview

Super 6 Girls • Makayla Bullock, Sylvania • Mollie Heard, Pisgah • Kallie Tinker, Pisgah • Tobi Trotter, Plainview • Chloe Womack, Pisgah • Marie Woodall, Fyffe

Super 6 Boys

PICTURED: Brittany Rivera of Collinsville (left) and Parker Godwin of Fyffe (right) were selected as the 2020 All-DeKalb County Most Valuable Players.

(Photos by Marla Jones | Southern Torch and Cheryl Boydston | ABC Photography)

• Grant Atchley, Sylvania • Parker Godwin, Fyffe • Micah Johnson, Fyffe • Russ Marr, NSM • Cole Millican, Plainview • Tristan Willingham, Plainview

Turkey Season Opens on March 21 (in Most Alabama Counties)

By Southern Torch Staff ALABAMA— Spring turkey season will open March 21 and close May 3, 2020, for most Alabama counties. The season will be delayed for research purposes on the following Wildlife Management Areas: Barbour, J.D. Martin-Skyline, Hollins, Oakmulgee, Lowndes, Choccolocco, and Perdido River. The delayed season will run March 28 to May 3.

Special youth turkey hunts are scheduled for Saturday and Sunday the week prior to the opening of spring season. For more information about Alabama’s spring turkey season, including a hunting zone map, visit www. outdooralabama.com/

turkey-season.

Hunters are also reminded that all turkey harvests must be reported through Alabama’s Game Check system. The data collected through Game Check is used by Alabama Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries (WFF) biologists to better understand harvest trends and set seasons and bag limits. “It is very important that hunters understand how harvest reporting has the potential to affect turkey management decisions,� said Chuck Sykes, WFF Director. “Turkey harvests have been consistently underreported. If that trend continues it could alter season dates and bag

limits. We strongly encourage hunters to report their turkey harvests during this year’s spring and fall seasons.�

Turkey harvests can be reported online at www. outdooralabama.com or

through the Outdoor AL mobile app. The mobile app is available from the Apple and Android app stores or www.outdooralabama. com/contact-us/ mobile-apps.

The Alabama

Department of Conservation and Natural Resources promotes wise stewardship, management and enjoyment of Alabama’s natural resources through four

divisions: Marine Resources, State Lands, State Parks, and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries.

To learn more about ADCNR, visit www. outdooralabama.com.

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FRIDAY — MARCH 13, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

9

Sylvania Tennis Holds First Sectional Match

By Marla Jones Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

SYLVANIA, Ala. — On Tuesday, Sylvania Varsity Tennis played their first sectional match of the season against Victory Christian Academy. The boys won 9-0 and the girls won 7-2.

"This season has been hard getting into a groove with all the rain,

)

but the kids have had a tremendous work ethic all year and want to continue to get better," said Head Coach Dustin Dalton. "They work harder than any group I have coached so far, and do a really good job at wanting to fix the little things in their game.

Their attention to detail makes them so fun to coach!"

"Both teams goals

are to make it to the state tournament. Our boys have made it past four years in a row, which has never happened before in the history of our program," Dalton continued. "The girls have not made it since the early 2000s, but we all feel like this year is going to change all that. We have a big group of seniors who

have really built the foundation for our program for years to come, and they want to make sure they leave their mark this season."

Boys: Singles 1. Josh Tinker 10-5 2. Mason Sanders 10-8 3. Jordan Johnson 10-0 4. Drake Justus 10-0

5. Clayton Wilks 10-0 6. Logan McCullough 10-0 Doubles 1. Johnson/Justus 10-4 2. Tinker/Wilks 10-0 3. Sanders/ McCullough 10-0 Girls: Singles 1. Audrey Schrader 11-9 2. Lacey Hall 10-5

3. Kelby Chadwick 10-2 4. Brittany Aguilar 10-8 5. Kate Berry 10-8 6. Abby Shrader 7-10 Doubles 1. Schrader/Hall 10-4 2. Chadwick/Berry 10-8 3. Aguilar/Shrader 6-10

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