SHOP NEW & USED CARS AT TWIN CITY! 1411 Glenn Blvd SW, Fort Payne, AL 35967
WWW.BOBBYLEDBETTER.COM • 256.844.2210
THE SOUTHERN TORCH / FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2020 / VOL. 6, NO. 13 / $1.00
LIKE
FOLLOW
TWEET
Legal Alcohol Sales in Rainsville?
By Marla Jones Managing Editor
marla@southerntorch.com RAINSVILLE, Ala. — A petition to add a public vote for legal alcohol sales within the City of Rainsville is being circulated. Rainsville citizens last voted on alcohol in 2014, that vote fell short of passing by 29 votes, with 770 against and 741 for the sale. Zane Mitchell, along with a few other citizens, has circulated a petition within the City. Mitchell stated, “ I do believe that passing this will be an asset to the city and I am not the one who is leading
this effort,�. When asked who was leading the petition effort, Mitchell stated there were several. Southern Torch also reached out to Rainsville Mayor and Councilmembers for their stance on alcohol sales: • Mayor Rodger Lingerfelt: We made several attempts to obtain a statement from Mayor Lingerfelt but calls were or messages were not returned about this issue. • Brandon Freeman: I really take no stance either way but I feel that the money if passed should be equally distributed and should be used for helping with the present school situations.
Educators on a Mission
• Derek Rosson: I am in the middle on this. I have had calls for both sides. I feel that people are exercising their first amendment right to petition the government. This right is something I
By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com After the school closure last week due to the coronavirus scare, DeKalb County Superintendent of Education, Dr. Jason Barnett sprang into action to help students who might not otherwise have food to eat. Several volunteers begin to package a healthy breakfast, lunch, and snack to be distributed at sites across the county. On Monday, over 18,800 meals were distributed to cover five days. These meals in coordination with Backpack of Blessings should supply the children’s needs for a healthy meal.
Dr. Jason Barnett has set a lofty goal for next week to supply 24,000 meals for the next week. DeKalb County administrators and teachers have worked endless hours to provide for all the students’ needs. In this time of uncertainty, many teachers have reached out to their students. Two of our very own DeKalb County teachers, both previous Southern Torch Teachers of the Week, have stepped up to connect with their students during this difficult time. Jan Renfroe Faulkner, a first-grade teacher at
>> SCHOOLS, P4
FORT PAYNE, Ala. — From the Office of DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden: This past month was productive for the DeKalb County Narcotics Unit. 26 were arrested and received charges related to narcotics. On Thursday, February 6th, Deputies along with Narcotics Agents conducted a traffic stop on Highway 75 in Rainsville. A search of the vehicle revealed methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. Terry Jacob Dutton (27 of Rainsville) and James Hairston (36 of Prattville, Al) both were arrested and charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance and Drug Paraphernalia. On Friday, February 7th, Deputies received a call of an assault and robbery that occurred in the Hammondville area. Interdiction Agents were in the area and spotted the vehicle in question. After stopping the vehicle, suspects Melvin Moss (29 of Valley Head) and Edward Owens (30 of Fort Payne) were located within the vehicle. After a search of the vehicle and an investigation, investigators
charged both suspects with Robbery 1st Degree, Assault, Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Carrying a Pistol without a Permit. On Thursday, February 13th, Deputies conducted a traffic stop in the Powell area on Jerry Little (41 of Scottsboro) and the Narcotics Unit was called out for assistance. After their arrival, Little was arrested for Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Marijuana 2nd Degree, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. On Tuesday, February 17th, a Henagar Police Officer had a subject run on foot on County Road 85 in the Fort Payne area. The suspect was later found and arrested. The Narcotics unit arrived on scene to assist, and identified the subject as Ryan Burt (28 of Henagar). He was charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Attempting to Elude. On the same day, during a traffic stop on Highway 35 near Powell, agents found Cocaine, MDMA (Ecstacy), and
• LISTEN TO 98-3 WILD COUNTRY & 101-7 THE TORCH
schools and spend more money on ball facilities for the children. We need to spend money on children, they are our future. I also think that some money should be spent on the roads also. • Marshall Stiefel: Obviously I will go along with the will of the people, that is what I was elected to do. I have to be very careful with my votes because I have two little girls at home that will be watching very closely what their Dad does. As for where the money should go, that is something that the next council will have to decide. People need to think seriously about who they vote for in the coming
election, due to the implications of new revenue streams coming in, if passed. Look for updates on this topic in the following weeks. If this petition successfully gathers enough legally qualified signatures, it will appear on the August 2020 municipal election ballot in the City of Rainsville. If passed into law, the next mayor and council would be tasked with creating an ordinance establishing the rules and guidelines of alcohol sales, as to how the revenue would be used. We would encourage everyone to exercise their right to vote on public matters such as this.
26 Charged for Narcotics Last Month By Southern Torch Staff
Jan Faulkner, a first-grade teacher at Geraldine, visited her students via Jeep and a sign stating "I Miss You!" (Submitted Photo)
fought for. I will go along with whatever the outcome because that’s my job, something I was elected to do. If passed the three things I would like the money allocated for are (1) Schools, (2) emergency personnel and (3) infrastructure. • Bejan Taheri: I will go along with how the majority votes. I would like 50% of the money to be used in our schools, Cornerstone and Plainview. The other 50% needs to be allocated to the police department and the roads. • Ricky Byrum: I will go along with whatever the people vote. I can deal with it either way. I think we need to buy computers for
•
•
Clozapam. Jessica Brown (32 of Birmingham) was arrested for Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance (x3) and Drug Paraphernalia. On Tuesday, February 18th, Deputies went to a residence in the Whiton area on an arrest warrant. While there, they found marijuana at the residence. The Narcotics Unit was called to the scene, and Alexander Mosely (28 of Geraldine) was arrested for Possession of Marijuana 1st Degree. On Wednesday, February 25th, Interdiction Agents made a traffic stop at the intersection of Highway 68 and Highway 168 in Kilpatrick. During the stop, agents found methamphetamine and marijuana. Matthew Patterson (29 of Albertville) was arrested and charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Marijuana 2nd Degree, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. On Thursday, February 27th, Narcotics Agents conducted a search warrant on Willow Road in Ider. During the search, methamphetamine was found as well as drug paraphernalia. Chris
Holcomb (46 of Ider) and Quanda Franks (49 of Fort Payne) were arrested. While conducting the search warrant, a white male ran from the residence. The suspect was identified as Ethan Phillips (27 of Henagar), who was later apprehended. All three were charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Phillips was also charged with Attempting to Elude, Tampering with Evidence, and Loitering in a Drug House. On Friday, February 28th, while working in the Mentone area regarding drug complaints, agents found themselves in a high speed pursuit that started on Highway 117 and ended on County Road 642. The driver and passenger both fled on foot. The driver was later identified as a white male juvenile from Georgia. Warrants were obtained for their arrest. While in the Shiloh Crossroads area on the on the same date, Deputies were following up on leads of drug activity. While following up on these
>> CRIME, P5
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.
2
FRIDAY — MARCH 27, 2020
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
SHOP NEW & USED CARS AT TWIN CITY! 1411 Glenn Blvd SW, Fort Payne, AL 35967
WWW.BOBBYLEDBETTER.COM • 256.844.2210
B M
m
@JACKSONBLAZEAL
HMC Opens Drive-Thru Alabama National Test for Coronavirus Guard Is Ready to Help By Jackson Blaze Staff JACKSON COUNTY, Ala. — Highlands Medical Center, in coordination with city and county agencies, is opening a drive-thru screening and collection site for patients with a physician order to be tested for COVID-19. The screening site will be open Wednesday, March 25 through Friday, March 27 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. It is located at the Scottsboro Junior High School on Heroes Drive. Only patients with a physician order and appointment will receive service through the drive-thru screening and collection site. People without a physician order will not be screened. People who have symptoms of the virus should call their primary care physician for an initial screening and next steps. Those people who do not have a primary care physician should call an urgent care or rural health clinic. If you are unable to reach a physician for a discussion, call the Alabama Department of Public Health HOTLINE with your questions by dialing 211. Patients with a physician order who meet screening and collection criteria but are uninsured will be screened for temporary Medicaid on site. HMC is leading this effort with the Scottsboro Mayor’s Office, Jackson County Commission, Jackson County EMA, Scottsboro City School System, Jackson County School System, Scottsboro Police Department, Jackson County Sheriff’s Department, and public works departments to provide a safe and well-prepared site for screening patients in our community. In preparation for today’s screening site opening, an initial run of the drive-thru was conducted on Monday, March 23, in order to help provide a safe experience for our community. Members of the general public without a physician order for testing are urged to stay away from the site in order to maintain an orderly flow of traffic through the area. This will allow medical professionals to focus on proper collection and safety.
•
A Jack of All Trades
If you need it done, call us!
✓
Speciality & Hard to Reach Places
✓
By B.A. Little Reporter beverlyannette@ southerntorch.com ALABAMA — On Friday, Governor Kay Ivey gave authorization to Adjutant Major General Sheryl Gordon, with the Alabama National Guard, to activate up to 100 guardsmen, if needed, to combat COVID-19. While the National Guard is often called out by governors to respond to natural and man-made disasters, Guard members also have a long history of responding to public health emergencies. In talking to a local Jackson County, Alabama National Guardsman, he stated, “The National Guard is made up of our communities and our neighbors. We are prepared to step away from our families and civilian lives to support and protect our communities and country. The National Guard has the training and resources to make a real impact in this disaster. This is a time when we have to live up to our motto of “Always there, always ready�. The Alabama National Guard issued this statement, “The Alabama National Guard is your community support and defense force. We live, work, and play in every ZIP code in this state; we are your friends and neighbors and are very much in this
with you. We are here, we are strong, and we are prepared to assist in the fight against COVID-19 if needed. We stand with you, and, together, we will win as we always have.� Additionally, Maj. Gen. Sheryl E. Gordon, The Adjutant General, Alabama National Guard, issued the following: The State of Alabama currently faces an unprecedented challenge in the form of the coronavirus outbreak, and its impact on nearly every level of daily life. The Alabama National Guard must remain ready to respond to the needs of the State of Alabama and the United States while ensuring the health of the force during the COVID-19 outbreak. I feel that it is important for the local communities to see our Guardsmen at our armories and facilities ready to meet the needs of the citizens of Alabama when called. At times we must take necessary risks to serve others, our neighbors, our state, and our nation. As we move forward, I anticipate a need for the Alabama National Guard in areas such as logistics support and additional emergency management support. This situation is ever-evolving, and the Alabama National Guard may be needed to fulfill other roles as well. My number one priority is taking care of our Soldiers, Airmen,
t civilian employees, and their families because the y readiness of our force will t be critical to any state or e u national COVID-19 response efforts. Sick or i t quarantined personnel s have the potential to severely impact readiness y and our ability to respond when called. t Alabama National b Guard leadership has I empowered unit r commanders to utilize the M concepts of mission S command and risk o management to make o decisions regarding d training, IDT, and annual a training events in order to c balance force health W protection while maintaining the ability to h respond to operational needs. In addition, many of s j our federal and state employees will be asked to t adjust work areas, work s from home, perform shift f work or, in some cases, take paid administrative n o leave to support social distancing and stem the spread of the disease. We are taking these precautions to preserve the health of our service members, our employees, and our families. We care about your physical, emotional and spiritual health and resilience – and there is an operational need to keep you healthy! We need you to BE READY. We are all truly in this together, and together we will see this through! The Alabama National Guard is ready when called.
Water Drainage, Sewer, Ponds, & Pools
✓ Grated AND Rock!
✓
Mowing, Mulching, Tree & Bush Trimming,Weeding, & Gutter Cleaning!
✓
9599 AL HWY 40 Henagar, AL 35978 www.ggtaxservice.net See Our Facebook Page
Hot & Cold Water for Anything & Everything!
glennwjones@me.com
S s b h u n
client@ggtaxservice.net
Office: 256.657.4529 Fax: 256.657.1177
FRIDAY — MARCH 27, 2020
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
3
COMMUNITY
Chesser Calls For Letter from the Editor: Southern Torch Is Community Day of Prayer Still Here For You By Southern Torch Staff
By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com
The focus of Southern Torch is the same as it has always been- ensuring that you have the most up-to-date and reliable news available. In these uncertain times, we want to let you, our readers know that we will do everything possible to update the latest information regarding the coronavirus, not to spread panic but to keep you informed. On a personal note, the past few weeks have been challenging for me. I have struggled with my responsibilities as the Managing Editor of Southern Torch to report on these cases and my own personal fear. I have dealt with panic and anxiety regarding the current situation of our World. On a brighter note, I have seen our nation, state and community join together in a way that has not happened since the attack on 9/11. On my way home from work, I have noticed more people outside playing with
family. People are hiking and enjoying the beauty that DeKalb County and the surrounding areas have to offer. The world has slowed down a little and we are beginning to realize the things in life that really matter, our family and our loved ones. If one thing comes from this terrible virus, it will be that people are beginning to love each other again. We are becoming more involved with our community. Volunteers throughout DeKalb have made a difference and we appreciate you. In the coming days, we will highlight your efforts in our paper.
Due to social distancing, many were unable to attend their places of worship. On Sunday, our Facebook was flooded with services allowing people a chance, to worship, As a country, we are turning to God in our time of need. My advice to you is to remain calm, enjoy this added time you have with family and know that Southern Torch will be with you every step of the way, keeping you informed. The strength of our forefathers remains embedded in our country today therefore I know we will survive and be stronger in the end.
FORT PAYNE, Ala. — Fort Payne Mayor Larry Chesser has announced a day of community prayer for Sunday, March 29. Community Prayer: Dear God, you have said that the prayer of the righteous avails much. We certainly are not righteous of our own accord, but through Christ's blood we have been made righteous in your sight. Father, we claim that promise and trust you to do what's best. Our city is a Christian community that tries to follow your commandants and live in your ways. We strive to help each other, in good or bad times, as we would ourselves, family and neighbors. Dear God, the Corona virus pandemic has increased anxiety in many people and many just don't know what to do. Your word invites us to pray to you and you will deliver us in times of trouble. Please accept this prayer toward that end. We know your word tells us to put our trust in you and not worry. Help us to do just that. Father, we pray for our city and county as well as all those threatened by this pandemic. We know that many may be in
danger of being without employment and lack of income. Please help us in that as well and help us to be mindful of all around us. Father, we pray for our doctors and emergency personnel that they may be unaffected and able to do their duties. We pray for
those in authority who make decisions that affect many people. Give them the wisdom to do what is prudent and necessary. And lastly God, we thank you for your Son who gave his life as a ransom for us, and it is in his name we pray, Amen
•
" "
e
•
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
4
FRIDAY — MARCH 27, 2020
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
BUSINESS
Torch
Talk
with Marla & Marshall
EVERY FRIDAY ON FACEBOOK
YARDWORX
AMY THRASH ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
amy@southerntorch.com Office: 256.638.4040 Cell: 256.996.0460
LAWN CARE & LANDSCAPING
256-630-9094 yardworxal@gmail.com
W.T. Wilson
ADVERTISE HERE FOR JUST 12.50
Hometown banking, wherever you are!
Southern Gold & Silver QUALITY JEWELRY
226 Gault Ave. N • Fort Payne, AL 35967 Phone: 256-845-5680 Fax: 256-845-5165
C T D
M C m y a s J
James Allensworth • allensworthgold@aol.com
C m s a
1706 Glenn Blvd., Suite 4
Fort Payne, AL 35968 • (256) 997-7591
Woody’s
Scottsboro
Steak & Seafood
JODI SKINNER
(256) 259-2211
Tuesday-Thursday — 10:30-7 Friday & Saturday — 10:30-8 Sunday — 11-4:30
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
jodi@southerntorch.com
105 Co. Rd. 89 in Fort Payne / Dogtown
Office: 256.259.2341 Cell: 256.735.3699
256-364-2221
Scottsboro
(256) 259-2211
ADVERTISE HERE FOR JUST 12.50
/
THE FISHERMEN SOUTHERN GOSPEL QUARTET
B. ANNETTE LITTLE
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
LEGALS
LEGALS
LEGALS
LEGALS
LEGALS
IN THE JUVENILE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA
IN THE JUVENILE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA
Case No.: JU-2019-266.02
CASE NO.: 2020-65
CASE NO.: 2020-64
CASE NO.: JU-2018-258.02
CASE NO.: 2020-86
IN THE MATTER OF MICHAEL KOHYN MURDOCK
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF BURLEY ONEAL MAYO, deceased
IN THE MATTER OF: JUSTIN WYATT ALFREY
ADMINISTRATOR'S NOTICE TO FILE CLAIMS
To the Autumn Cook and any unknown fathers to the minor child born to Autumn Cook on April 27, 2018, whose whereabouts are unknown, you must answer the Petition to Terminate Parental Rights and other relief by May 26, 2020 or thereafter a judgment of default may be rendered against you in the Juvenile Court of DeKalb County, Alabama.
In the Matter of the Estate of Jack Arnold Brewer, deceased
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
IN RE: THE ESTATE OF ROY M. BARKLEY JR., DECEASED NOTICE TO FILE CLAIMS
LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION ON THE ESTATE OF BURLEY ONEAL MAYO, DECEASED, having been granted to the undersigned on the 10th day of March, 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.
TAKE NOTICE that Letters of Administration having been granted to SHERRY BELL BARKLEY, as Personal Representative of the Estate of ROY M. BARKLEY JR., deceased, on the 16th day of March 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.
Chris Runyan, Administrator To be published: March 20, March 27, and April 3
Sherry Bell Barkley, Personal Representative
Law Office of Glenn A. Shedd P.O. Box 681105 Fort Payne, AL 35968
Letters of Administration of the estate of Jack Arnold Brewer, deceased, having been granted to the undersigned on the 24th day of March, 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.
To be published: March 20, March 27, and April 3
To be published: March 13, March 20, and March 27
To be published: March 27, April 3, April 10
Twin City & Zaxby's Give Back
Twin City and Zaxby's have teamed up to deliver meals to the community for those affected during this time and staff at DeKalb Regional Medical Center. Thanks Twin City for giving back to our community!
KANDIELAND DAY CARE CEN ER
256.638.4848
333 DILBECK RD IN RAINSVILLE
SCHOOLS FROM PAGE 1
Geraldine visited some of her students. She talked to them from her Jeep and held a sign up saying that she missed them. “This is a hard time for all teachers. We care about our kids and worry about them even if school is closed,� said Faulkner. “I have FaceTimed with my students, sent text messages and also went to their homes, honked and yelled for them to come outside. I made a sign that said ‘I Miss You’ on it and gave out blow pops as a surprise.� Shea King Bruce used the Zoom out to reach out to her students. She spoke to each student and then read them a bedtime story. “It was such a blessing to have the ability to use Zoom where I was able yo see and have a conversation with the students in my class!� stated Bruce. “We all miss each other in this time away and it is awesome that we have the technology to be able to interact with each other.� “I enjoyed this experience and I know the kids did as well. Their parents messaged me about how some cried when we all said goodbye and many wanted to call back,� Bruce concluded. “We look forward to doing this again soon!�
FRIDAY — MARCH 27, 2020
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
5
POLITICS
DeKalb Co. Absentee Voting Starts Now Contributed by Todd Greeson DeKalb Co. Circuit Clerk As Absentee Election Manager of DeKalb County, I would very much like to encourage you to mail in your absentee application starting now through July 9. With the Coronavirus having so many in our county self-quarantining, we are more than happy to
CRIME
FROM PAGE 1 leads, Arnold Bunch (58 of Higdon) was arrested for Possession of a Controlled Substance and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Narcotics agents assisted in the case. Also on the 28th, Narcotics Agents and Deputies assisted the Collinsville Police Department at the Traveler’s Inn on a traffic stop. Christopher Madden (50 of Collinsville) was arrested for Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Marijuana 1st Degree, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. While at the Traveler’s Inn, agents conducted a search and arrested the manager, Damacio Sanchez (49 of Collinsville) on charges of Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Marijuana 1st Degree, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Later on the same day, agents were called back to the Traveler’s Inn in Collinsville, after receiving a complaint of additional drug activity. Austin Medlock (21 of Fort Payne) and Autumn McKinney (20 of Collinsville) were found in possession of synthetic marijuana and drug paraphernalia. Both were arrested for Possession of a Controlled Substance and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. On Saturday, February 29th, Narcotics Agents were investigating reports of suspicious activity on County Road 3 in the Whiton area. As part of the investigation, agents attempted to make a traffic stop. The vehicle fled agents and the pursuit entered Marshall County, ending with the driver fleeing on foot on Pea Ridge Road.
be able to send you applications in the mail. After receiving your application in the mail, we will mail your ballot out to you. Or, you may access an absentee application online at alabamavotes.gov. When filling out your application mark the reason: "I have a physical illness or infirmity that prevents my attendance at the polls" This is acceptable during this time. It is important to
remember to send in a copy of your ID along with the application. If you have any questions about the absentee process in our county, please call us at 256-845-8525. Keep in mind that courthouse hours as of today are 10:00 am to 2:00 pm but could be subject to change at any time. We will be working to process the absentee applications as soon as possible. Also, please
The Albertville Police Department arrived to assist. After a search of a wooded area, Anthony Patton (37 of Cullman) was located. Patton was arrested for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia after 24 grams of methamphetamine were located. On Monday, March 2nd, Deputies responded to a call regarding a fight near Kilpatrick. During the investigation, deputies recovered xanax, marijuana, and assorted drug paraphernalia. Narcotics agents were called to the scene and arrested Iban Lopes Rios (20 of Rainsville) for Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Also on the same day, a traffic stop by the Narcotics Unit in the Kilpatrick area yielded the seizure of 93 oxycodone pills, methamphetamine, suboxone, and other controlled substances. Justin Sims (34 of Albertville) was arrested and charged with Trafficking in Opiates, Possession of a Controlled Substance (x3), and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. On Tuesday, March 3rd, Narcotics Agents stopped a vehicle in the Rainsville area. During the stop, marijuana was located within the vehicle. Austin Riley Rothell (20 of Fort Payne) was charged with Possession of Marijuana 2nd Degree and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. On Monday, March 9th, Narcotics Agents made a traffic stop in the Rainsville area, during the stop they found
methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. Hervey Lamar (39 of Rainsville) was arrested and charged Possession of a Controlled Substance and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. On Tuesday, March 10th a deputy attempted to stop a vehicle around Lebanon. While attempting to do so, a passenger jumped from the vehicle and fled on foot. The passenger, Shawn Galloway (41 of Fyffe), was later caught and charged with Attempt to Elude, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Tampering with Evidence, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia after the narcotics unit arrived and assisted on the case. Later on the same day, Agents conducted a search warrant at a residence on McCurdy Avenue in Rainsville. During the search, methamphetamine was located as well as drug paraphernalia. Arrested were Chasaty Johnson (37 of Rainsville), David Wharton (33 of Rainsville), and Sonja Gonzalez (37 of Rainsville). All were charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden said: “This is another great month of work for our narcotics unit. Even though we are currently facing the COVID-19 outbreak, they are continuing their hard work to fight illegal narcotics in our communities.� “Despite the current events, our deputies, narcotics agents, and investigators will continue the hard work they do. It’s necessary to ensure our roadways and citizens stay safe,� he said. “God Bless!� Concluded Sheriff Welden.
Ider Discount Drugs
@
understand that you will be screened before being allowed to enter the courthouse if you decide to come in to vote. This is a big reason we are encouraging absentee voting by mail, Mail your applications to: Absentee Election Manager PO Box 681149 Fort Payne, AL 35967 Thank you for your cooperation through this trying time for DeKalb County and our Nation.
INSIDE THE STATEHOUSE
By Steve Flowers Political Columnist
MONTGOMERY, Ala. — The GOP contest for who sits in our number two U.S. Senate seat has been delayed until July 14, 2020, due to the coronavirus. The winner of the battle between Jeff Sessions and Tommy Tuberville will more than likely be our junior US. Senator for six years. Neither are spring chickens. Sessions will be 74 and Tuberville will be 66, when the winner takes office. This is not the optimum age to be a freshman U.S. Senator because seniority equates to superiority in the U.S. Senate. Given their age of arrival neither will be given much deference or have much influence. Sessions’ 20 years go for naught. He does not get his seniority back. Instead, he goes to the back of the line as would Tuberville. Sessions really does not want to be influential. During his tenure, he wanted to be the choir boy and Eagle Scout of the Senate. He was the most honest and conservative member of the Senate. He wore that badge proudly and would again. Tuberville is planning to be Trump’s bodyguard and valet. He will not know where the bathroom is, what committees he has been placed on, or where to sit, much less how to pass a bill or get anything accomplished for Alabama. After about six years he will realize he is a Senator from Alabama, not Arkansas or Florida. His only mission as a campaigner appears to be that he can shoot a gun and wants to be Donald Trump’s pawn. The irony with this Trump love affair is
legitimate polling that points to a Tuberville victory also reveals a Trump loss. Trump probably is not going to be president when either Tuberville or Sessions takes office. Anybody with a cursory knowledge of how our president is elected under the Electoral College System realizes that if Trump loses any of the key pivotal battleground states of Ohio, Florida, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota or Pennsylvania, he loses the White House. If Joe Biden is the Democratic nominee, current polling clearly has him favored to carry all of those states. He is pretty much a lock to win his home state of Pennsylvania. The winner of the Tuberville-Sessions contest will be our junior senator. Either one will beat our anomaly, Democratic interloper Doug Jones, probably 60 to 40. Being the Republican nominee for a U.S. Senate seat in the Heart of Dixie is tantamount to election, especially in a presidential election year with Donald Trump atop the ticket. It really does not matter which one is elected, they both will vote conservatively and look at their roles as being a reactionary ideologue. Neither will garner much power. However, that does not matter when you have Senator Richard Shelby as your senior Senator. He has enough power that we really do not need a second senator. Most pundits were saying Tuberville had momentum and was heading towards a victory, especially with Trump’s endorsement. However, with 15 weeks to prepare rather than 10 days it is a new ballgame.
Allow me to share two cardinal caveats I have shared with you over the years, and which I have recently shared with national media people who have asked for my insight on this race. First, Alabamians have shown a unique but overwhelming aversion to one politician endorsing another for another office. I was taught this rule of Alabama politics when I was a young legislator. It is a cardinal rule in Alabama politics that you do not get involved in other races. Alabamians have a very dim view of this practice. They seem to inherently say, “We elected you to your office. You ought to be thankful for that and not show an arrogance that you are so good and anointed that you want to tell us who to vote to place in another office.� George Wallace, in his hey-day, when he was at the height of his popularity, would endorse someone and invariably they would lose. Less y’all forget, Trump endorsed Luther Strange for this same seat. He then lost to Roy Moore. Then Trump endorsed Roy Moore and he immediately lost to Doug Jones. Alabamians do not think much of endorsements, in fact they resent them. The second caveat is Alabamians will universally, overwhelmingly vote for someone from their neck of the woods. It is called “Friends and Neighbors� politics. Jeff Sessions lives in and is from Mobile. The voter turnout in Mobile-Baldwin is going to be the highest in the State because there is a tossup runoff race between Jerry Carl and Bill Hightower to fill Bradley Byrne’s 1st Congressional District seat.
6
FRIDAY — MARCH 27, 2020
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
DEATH NOTICES KERBY Leroy Roberts - 79 of Pisgah, passed away on Thursday, March 19. The family will hold a private visitation and service. Sarah E. Williams - 60 of Pisgah, passed away on Thursday, March 19. Funeral services were held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, March 22 at Kerby Funeral Home Chapel with burial in Mt. Pisgah Cemetery. Hazel Metcalf - 92 of Pisgah, passed away on Sunday, March 22. Funeral services were held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, March 26 at Kerby Funeral Home Chapel with burial in Green Haven Memorial Gardens.
CORNER STONE Dewayne Dover - 52 of Bryant, passed away on Tuesday, March 17. No formal services are planned. Lillian Victoria Flippo - 84 of Scottsboro, passed away on Friday, March 20. A private service was held and burial followed in Oak Lawn Memorial Park. Jerry Dwayne Ellis - 61 of Flat Rock, passed away on Saturday, March 21. Funeral services were held at noon on Wednesday, March 25 at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel with burial in Higdon Cemetery. Margaret Brewer Pruitt - 76 of Dalton, Ga., passed away on Sunday, March 22. A graveside service was held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, March 26 at Bethlehem Cemetery. Gerald Edward Hawkins - 50 of Bryant, passed away on Monday, March 23. A graveside service was held on Wednesday, March 25 at Reeves Cemetery. Leon Ellis - 80 of Flat Rock, passed away on
Monday, March 23. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. on Friday, March 20 at Shady Grove Baptist Church with burial in the adjoining cemetery.
WILSON Dave Austin - 69 of Fort Payne, passed away on Tuesday, March 17. A memorial service will be held at a later date. William Roy Bullock, Jr. - 92 of Dogtown, passed away on Wednesday, March 18. No services will be held at this time.
W.T. WILSON Janie Steele Craft - 68 of Fort Payne, passed away on Monday, March 16. A private service will be held at a later date. Henry Dale Brown - 78 of Rainsville, passed away on Tuesday, March 17. A private service will be held at a later date. Greta Wright - 48 of Collinsville, passed away on Saturday, March 21. Visitation only will be held on Tuesday, March 24 at W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel. Rayford Barksdale - 73 of Fort Payne, passed away on Sunday, March 22. A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, March 24 at Whiton Cemetery. Virginia Melrose Willoughby - 91 of Dawson, passed away on Sunday, March 22. A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, March 25 at Skirum Cemetery. Lee Alan Cook - 68 of Fort Payne, passed away on Sunday, March 22. A private graveside service will be held at a later date.
Rebecca Lynn Gass - 64 of Bryant, passed away on Monday, March 23. A memorial service will be held by the family at a later date. Marshall Lee Baugh - 66 of Crossville, passed away on Monday, March 23. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, March 26 at W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel. Linda Cleo Howard - 73 of Collinsville, passed away on Monday, March 23. A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, March 25 at Glenwood Cemetery with burial to follow. Linda Nell Dobson - of Fyffe, passed away on Tuesday, March 24. A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, March 26 at Tenbroeck Cemetery. Joseph K. McNew, D.V.M • Linda Galbraith, D.V.M. • Jessica Jones, D.V.M.
Your loyal companion, Our dedicated focus!
Burt Funeral H omes
since 1982
since 1969
 �
@
Traditional funeral, cremation and monument services
IT’S TIME TO WIN THE DAY PREMIER MEMBERSHIP
• • •
• •  • � � • � • �   • • €
• %  � � ( � / � ) • %  �
BECOME A FOUNDING MEMBER TODAY!
SANDMOUNTAINPARK.COM/WINTHEDAY
FRIDAY — MARCH 27, 2020
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
7
GAMES
Southern Torch Reaches Out to Help Seniors
Southern Torch, in collaboration with DeKalb County Council on Aging Director Emily McCamy, is pleased to announce that they will partner with the DeKalb County Senior Centers to supply their paper to those who receive a box of shelf-stable meals once per week for those in need. “We are pleased to partner with the local senior centers to give them our weekly paper,” stated Southern Torch Managing Editor, Marla Jones. “On behalf of myself and Distribution Manager, Marshall Stiefel, along with our entire staff, We understand that many will be home and will need a little ray of sunshine during this time. In the coming weeks, we will devote a page of activities especially for our seniors.”
The Lord is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life, of whom shall I be afraid? — Psalm 27:1
8
FRIDAY — MARCH 27, 2020
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
1-833-266-7847
CALL FOR RATES & AVAILABLITY 20046 AL Highway 75 • Henagar, AL 35978 Rental available to ALL 50 STATES! Construction equipment with 10-hour workdays AND storage container rental!
WE OFFER: Backhoes, Bulldozers, Manlifts, Excavators, Scissor Lifts and More!
COMPETITIVE PRICING NATIONWIDE REPAIR FLEXIBLE DELIVERY OPTIONS SERVING YOU IN THREE LOCATIONS
HENAGAR, FORT PAYNE & SCOTTSBORO