The Southern Torch — Vol. 6, No. 17

SPRING INTO SAVINGS AT TWIN CITY! 1411 Glenn Blvd SW, Fort Payne, AL 35967

WWW.BOBBYLEDBETTER.COM • 256.844.2210

THE SOUTHERN TORCH / FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 2020 / VOL. 6, NO. 17 / $1.00 THIS WEEK IN POLITICS

• Inside The Statehouse with Steve Flowers • Public Servants Spreading Love

LIKE

THIS WEEK IN COMMUNITY

• Council on Aging Still Here for DeKalb Co. Seniors • A Family Tradiation

FOLLOW

TWEET

THIS WEEK IN BUSINESS

• See Who's Featured in our Business Spotlight! • STAR ID Requirements Delayed Until 2021

COUNCILS STILL ON THE JOB

FORT PAYNE RAINSVILLE VALLEY HEAD

Rainsville City Hall (Submitted Photo)

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

Fort Payne City Hall (Photo by Southern Torch)

By Marla Jones, Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com FORT PAYNE, Ala. — (Full Video on our Facebook) The Fort Payne City Council conducted its regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, April 21. Only members with essential business were allowed to attend.

The Council approved the following ordinances and resolutions: • 2020-18 authorizing the installation and maintenance of roadway lighting along Gault Avenue from 3rd Street South to 8th Street North. • 2020-19, declaring 3.73 acres of land located on the north end of the sports complex as surplus property and to be sold to Jet Polymer • 2020-20 accepting the low bid for a used bucket truck • 2020-21, accepting the low bid for a padfoot compactor • 2020-22, authorizing an agreement for an industrial entrance and turn lane at YS, Inc. In new business, the Council: • Authorized bids for plant mix and binder • Declared the month of April 2020 as Fair Housing Month • After the June expiration of Randy McClung’s term on the Fort Payne Board of Education, the Council appointed Sharon Jones as his replacement.

The next meeting of the Fort Payne Council will be May 5, 2020.

RAINSVILLE, Ala. — (Full Video on our Facebook) The Rainsville City Council held its regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, April 20 via teleconference due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The main topic of the meeting pertained to the safety of the employees and citizens of Rainsville. Mayor Rodger Lingerfelt gave an update regarding steps that had been taken to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. Employees are advised to wash their hands and use hand sanitizer and to maintain an appropriate social distance.

Lingerfelt also stated that due to the recommendation of Councilman Marshall Stiefel, the thumb-print

time clocks are wiped down after each use. The City is also planning on temperature checks for employees at each city building.

In addition, the mayor advised that all tornado warning sirens within the city, with the exception of Collier Circle, were now repaired. The repair on Collier Circle will cost $900, which the council approved. “I am pleased that the Mayor has implemented these measures for the protection of our employees and our citizens of Rainsville,� stated Rainsville Councilman Marshall Stiefel.

Mayor Lingerfelt also updated that the Rainsville City Audit was now completed and was posted on their website.

> RAINSVILLE, P4

Valley Head Town Hall (Submitted Photo)

By Marla Jones, Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

VALLEY HEAD, Ala. — (Full Video on our Facebook) The Valley Head Town Council met in a teleconference meeting on Monday, April 20.

The Valley Head Fire Department report was presented to the Mayor and Council. Acting Fire Chief Dustin Burt spoke to the Council on E-Dispatch, a service to update firefighters regarding calls. Burt suggested taking $5 out of each member pay per call to pay for service with the remainder each year to come out of the fundraising account. He also stated that at any time the Town decides to discontinue the services, they will prorate the remainder of the money back to the city.

The Council was updated on recent storm damage.

Due to recent flooding, the town sought an estimate to repave Railroad Avenue, Hammond Street, Church Street, the repair of bridge at City Hall, and a culvert at Valley Head Park. TNT Paving presented an estimate for $49,700.

In unfinished business, Mayor Bray stated that the Mayberry Committee voted to cancel the Mayberry Festival for 2020. The sponsors’ money that came in was approved by each sponsor to carry over to 2021.

In new business the Council passed: • Resolution #2020-0402 Fair Housing “Equal Housingâ€? was presented to the Mayor and Council which was passed. The Fair Housing Proclamation for April 2020 was made by the Council. • A motion was made to suspend the rules for immediate consideration of the Small Cell Technology Facilities. Ordinance #2020-0420 Small Cell Technology Facilities giving the town the right to regulates services in cities and towns was passed.

The next regular meeting of the Valley Head Town Council will be held on May 11, beginning at 6 p.m.

ADPH: 1,200 Alabamians Recovered from COVID-19

By Zach Hester, Reporter • zach@southerntorch.com ALABAMA — According to preliminary data released by the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH), approximately 1,200 Alabamians have recovered from the novel coronavirus.

In a Facebook post, ADPH stated they would continue to monitor recovered cases. The ADPH COVID-19 Dashboard does not currently include recoveries, due to the difficulty collecting all the necessary elements of recovery from hospitals across the state.

"Alabama is looking at ways to report patients released from quarantine or patients recovered," said ADPH. "However, this will require additional staff time, and, at this moment, staff time must be primarily dedicated to case

investigation and contact tracing to contain and reduce the spread of the virus."

On Tuesday, Governor Kay Ivey (R-Ala.) stated Alabama's Stay-At-Home order would continue through its scheduled date of April 30, despite calls to relax social distancing restrictions.

As of Wednesday morning, the ADPH reported 5,356 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the State of Alabama out of a total 48,387 tests administered. Of the 191 reported deaths, 178 have been confirmed to be due to the novel coronavirus. ADPH reports 730 hospitalizations because of the virus since March 13, 2020.

DeKalb County currently has 51 confirmed cases of COVID-19 out of 650 tests. Two fatalities have reported in DeKalb County as well.

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

•

•

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 — APRIL 24, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

SPRING INTO SAVINGS AT TWIN CITY! 1411 Glenn Blvd SW, Fort Payne, AL 35967

WWW.BOBBYLEDBETTER.COM • 256.844.2210

@JACKSONBLAZEAL

Hanes Sends Letter to Delegation, Wants to "Make China Pay"

By Dylan Smith JB Managing Editor dylan@southerntorch.com

SCOTTSBORO, Ala. — State Rep. Tommy Hanes (R-Bryant) has penned a public letter to Alabama’s Congressional

Delegation asking for their support of the “Holding the Chinese Communist Party Accountable for Infecting Americans Act of 2020’’ introduced by Sen. Tom Cotton (R-AR) and Rep. Dan Crenshaw

(R-TX).

If passed, the legislation would make way for Americans who were affected by COVID-19 to sue the Communist Party of China in federal court for damages caused by the

Congressman Aderholt:

BRIGHTER DAYS ARE AHEAD The past two months have been an unusual and scary time. But we are beginning to see a light at the end of the tunnel, and I know brighter days are ahead. I’m working with President Trump, Governor Ivey and Lt. Governor Ainsworth to reopen Alabama’s great economy.

We will not only survive this pandemic; I truly believe we will once again thrive. I encourage you to continue to read this local paper for the latest details on the Coronavirus and our plans for getting Alabama Back to Work.

Paid for by Aderholt for Congress

10 questions.

6 minutes. $13 billion for our state.

Complete your census at my2020census.gov

deadly virus.

Mounting evidence indicates that the Chinese misled the public about the origins of the coronavirus and withheld crucial information that could have potentially prevented the global spread of the virus.

Below is Hanes’s letter: Members of Congress, “The death, illness and economic hardship the citizens of the State of Alabama have endured due to COVID-19 stems directly from the Communist Party of China’s deceit regarding the virus. China’s negligence and withholding of vital information about the

Wuhan Virus has directly resulted in widespread pain and suffering across our great state.

It is because of this underlying truth that I am asking you to cosponsor and vote for the passage of the “Holding the Chinese Communist Party Accountable for Infecting Americans Act of 2020’’.

This legislation introduced by Sen. Tom Cotton and Rep. Dan Crenshaw would allow Alabamians to seek damages against the communist regime for the anguish their corruption has caused.

It’s time to hold China accountable and make them pay for the agony this virus has placed upon our people.

(Submitted Photo)

The people of the great State of Alabama deserve restitution and this bill would allow them to obtain it. On behalf of all Alabamians who have experienced immense B tribulation due to the Wuhan Virus, I ask you to R support the passage of z this bill.”

God bless, Tommy Hanes State Representative, District 23

Brooks Sends Ivey Economic Committee Recommendations

By Jackson Blaze Staff

Washington, DC— Monday evening, Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) transmitted to Alabama Governor Kay Ivey her request for recommendations by Alabama’s 5th Congressional District Advisory Committee for reviving Alabama’s economy. Formed at Governor Ivey’s request, the group evaluated the economic effects of Governor Ivey’s “Stay-at-Home Order” and made recommendations on how to best minimize economic damage by reviving Alabama’s economy.

The Advisory Committee represents all of the 5th District’s counties and includes

representatives from small and large businesses, the manufacturing sector, agriculture, medicine, local chambers of commerce, defense and space, the legal profession, banking, and Alabama legislators.

Though led by Congressman Brooks, the direction and recommendations of the Advisory Committee are those of the Committee. Each Advisory Committee member had the right to submit, and call for a vote on, any proposal.

The Advisory Committee’s recommendations are based on roll call votes of each recommendation that passed by a majority vote. Proposals that did not receive majority support are not included in the report.

In particular, and amongst other recommendations, the Advisory Committee called on Governor Ivey to immediately repeal and rescind all State of Alabama stay at home orders that have played a major role in strangling Alabama’s economy.

Congressman Brooks stated, “Tennessee Valley residents are extraordinarily concerned, and even somewhat fearful, of the COVID-19 Pandemic and are angry about how the Pandemic has been handled by all levels of government. There are no winners in the battle between a strong economy and minimal loss of life to

COVID-19. If we do everything possible to minimize COVID-19 deaths, the economy collapses and we risk even more people dying because of the fallout from that economic catastrophe. If we return economic activity to what it once was, then COVID-19 deaths will undoubtedly increase. In sum, Alabama and America are forced to make the best of a bad situation.”

Congressman Brooks continued, “Alabama has two options. We can live under government dictate, where a burgeoning nanny state regulates, ‘for our own good, because we are not smart enough to know better’, the minutiae of our lives (even to the point of dictating when we can visit our children, grandchildren, parents and siblings, and how far apart we must be when we do so). Or we can have a government that is a partner and advisor, that gives its best advice but defers to citizens the liberty and freedom of making their own decisions on how to best balance the conflict between COVID-19 safety and the income needed to support family life. I am proud that, in the Tennessee Valley, our Advisory Committee members chose to respect liberty, freedom, and the right of individual citizens to do what they believe is best to protect and promote their own lives.”

FRIDAY — APRIL 24, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

3

COMMUNITY

• •

 Â

• •

• •

BAND KIDS STEP UP A Family Tradition

These members of the Cherokee County High School band took a day of their coronavirus school-out to perform for the community — in ways other than musically. The Children's Advocacy Center had several dangerous dead trees on their property that threatened to fall on families using the Center. These band kids gave up their day to remove the dangerous trees as a service by the CCHS Band to the community. Pictured (L to R): Haven Ladd, Caroline Lloyd and Sarah Lloyd. (Submitted Photo)

Council on Aging Still Here for Seniors

By Zach Hester Reporter zach@southerntorch.com

DeKALB COUNTY, Ala. — At a time when people across the world are adjusting to a new normal, the DeKalb County Council on Aging is still diligently working on behalf of the seniors in our community. “Our SenioRx Program is still working on your medication applications, working with your doctors, and trying to keep your medicine flowing to you just as before,� stated DeKalb County Council on Aging Director Emily McCamy in a press release. “We are even tseeing new clients, but in a non-face-to-face way.�

In a separate release, the Council on Aging reported NovoNordisk will waive its $1,000 out-of-pocket requirement for Medicare Part D seniors. You will be provided with free medication from NovoNordisk if you receive any product made by them, and have NOT spent this amount yourself.

Lilly Cares has also ended its $1,100 out-of-pocket requirement for Medicare Part D seniors. This is the same as NovoNordisk regarding free medications. For those who have become unemployed due to

(Submitted Photo)

COVID-19, Lilly Cares has a call center set up at (833) 808-1234.

Also, Sanofi has lowered its spend-down requirements from five percent to the total gross household income to two percent. Some companies have not changed their requirements, but the SenioRx Program from the DeKalb County Council on Aging will continue to update. If you qualify for any of the above programs, please contact Dianne at (256) 845-8590.

Here are specific notes for area seniors: • Farmers Market Vouchers: People, age 60 and older, who meet the income requirements may contact the Council on Aging via telephone to be registered for the vouchers. Your monthly household income cannot exceed the following guidelines: $1,718 for one (1) person, $2,327 for two (2) people, $2,934 for three (3) people, $3,541 for four (4) people, $4,150

for five (5) people, and $4,756 for six (6) people. • Meals: The Council on Aging is still providing meals to DeKalb County residents ages 60 and older that need them.

There are no income guidelines. Please call to apply. • Transportation: The Council on Aging will not be able to provide transportation until it is safe for people to be within three feet of each other. • Ship: The Council on Aging are working from home every day to help seniors in any way they can with questions about Medicare, Medicaid, and social security.

The Council on Aging is available for assistance by phone, email, text, regular mail or any other way that does not involve personal contact. If you need assistance with any of our programs, please call (256) 845-8590 and you will be connected with a staff member.

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

Danny Stone started his barber career early in life and his family has a total of 16 barbers. (Submitted Photo)

By Marla Jones, Managing Editor • marla@southerntorch.com FORT PAYNE, Ala. — Danny Stone started working at the age of 14 shining shoes at Smith’s Barber Shop in Alexander City.

His father, a barber, told him one day that it was “time to quit shining shoes and start cutting hair� and that is when his barber career began. Danny’s dad had been trained by his Uncle Buddy Stone who started the Stone Barber Shop in the late 1940s. His father branched out and opened his own barbershop in a 16x16 building and some 65 years later, the Stone Barber Shop tradition continues.

After training with his father, Danny decided to open his own shop up in 1995. He is celebrating 25 years of owning his own business. Danny kept the barber tradition alive by beginning to train his own son, Daxton Stone at the age of fourteen. Daxton has now been in the barber business for 10 years.

The Stones had a total of sixteen barbers in the family, with some passing on. There are three generations of barbers with 12 barbering full or part-time.

The Stone’s Barbershop had planned a big celebration for all the years of service on May 9, 2020, but due to the outbreak of the coronavirus, those plans have been changed.

The shop has asked all its customers to come by and honk their horn in celebration of 50 years of cutting hair for Danny Stone.

The Stone’s Barbershop is located at 2206 Gault Avenue in Fort Payne. The Stone family is anxiously awaiting Governor Kay Ivey to reopen all the barbershops so they can get back to their family tradition.

Nelson Signs with Bryan College

By Southern Torch Staff RAINSVILLE, Ala. — Dual-Sport Scholar-Athlete Kelly Nelson of Cornerstone Christian Academy (CCA) has signed with Bryan College in Dayton, Tenn. where she will continue her volleyball career during the fall semester and be a thrower for the track team during spring semesters.

Nelson has earned

(Submitted Photo)

over $80,000 in scholarships and grants for her academic, athletic, and leadership achievements! These funds will be spread across her four years at

Bryan College, where she will major in Elementary Education and Bible.

Nelson is the fourth of 11 siblings to attend Bryan, which focuses on a Bible-based education.

Nelson has been an all-star athlete at CCA, excelling at volleyball, basketball, and discus throwing.

Southern Torch would like to wish Kelly the best of luck as she furthers her career at Bryan College!

4

FRIDAY — APRIL 24, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

BUSINESS

Torch

Talk

with Marla & Marshall

EVERY FRIDAY ON FACEBOOK

Southern Gold & Silver QUALITY JEWELRY

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

256-364-2221

Scottsboro

(256) 259-2211

ADVERTISE HERE FOR JUST 12.50

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

W.T. Wilson

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 IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No.: 2020-105 IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF RAY BARKSDALE, deceased Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to Holly Swanson, Personal Representative, on the 20th day of April, 2020, by the Honorable Ronnie Osborn, Judge of Probate Court of DeKalb County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within six months after the granting of letters, or within five months from the date of the first publication of this notice, whichever is the later to occur, or the same will be barred.

To be published: April 24, May 1, May 8

LEGALS PUBLIC AUCTION of Abandoned/Unclaimed Vehicle 2010 Chevrolet Tahoe 1GNUCCE02AR100883 Sale to be held: April 27, 2020 at 8 a.m.

2501 Beck Industrial Blvd NW Fort Payne, AL 35967 To be published: April 17, April 24

ADVERTISE HERE FOR JUST 12.50

RAINSVILLE FROM PAGE 1 Mayor Lingerfelt stated that copies of the audit could be picked up at the City Hall. When Southern Torch reached out to the City for a copy, we were advised that there were not enough bound copies available for us to obtain one.

Southern Torch will upload one and make it available to the public.

We will review and make information available in a later article.

The Council suspended the rules for immediate consideration to pass Ordinance 04-20-2020 regarding Small Cell Technology.

This ordinance will control where cellphone companies can put antennas and poles on the city streets.

In other business: • Accepted the $79,596.79 bid by Davis Heating and Air, Inc. to extend the sewer line to the new Medical Clinic owned by Ashley

Wigley-Thomas. The council gave the authorization to Mayor Lingerfelt to sign all necessary paperwork. • Gave Mayor Lingerfelt authorization to sign the necessary paperwork to apply for 80/20 funding for sidewalks on Hwy 75 from Foodland to Cornerstone Christian Academy and possibly to Hilltop if funding is available. If funds are available, the process to qualify could take up to one year. • Council Brandon Freeman updated that Park and Recreaction are awaiting an announcement from Governor Kay Ivey giving them the authority to proceed with a summer league.

There were nearly 300 who signed up for summer league ball and that he wanted “to give those kids the opportunity to play ball if at all possible.�

The Rainsville City Council will meet again on May 4, 2020.

Hometown banking, wherever you are!

m

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

JODI SKINNER ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

jodi@southerntorch.com Office: 256.259.2341 Cell: 256.735.3699

zach@southerntorch.com

ALABAMA — REAL ID deadlines have been extended to Oct. 1, 2021 due to the coronavirus pandemic. Alabama's version of the federal REAL ID program, known as STAR ID, would have been required for domestic and international air travel by Oct. 1, 2020 had the deadline not been moved.

"We began modifying the Driver License Division operations Monday, March 16, and continued to serve customers on a more limited basis to reduce potential exposure to the virus," said Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) Secretary Hal Taylor. "This deadline extension should relieve

some of the wait time at ALEA's DL offices to obtain a STAR ID during the next several months."

As previously reported, the STAR ID will also be required for admission to some federal facilities, including military bases.

Other forms of identification that will be accepted for flight are, according to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA): U.S. passport, U.S. passport card, DHS trusted traveler cards, U.S. Department of Defense ID, permanent resident card and border crossing card.

In order to get a STAR ID, drivers must show four documents to

"

"

h v k s a t p s fl

l s f d l d e w b c t

s

b

ADVERTISE HERE FOR JUST 12.50

verify their date of birth, identity, Social Security number and address.

Valid documents include: a birth certificate or valid passport, a Social Security card or document showing your number, and TWO documents showing your home address.

STAR IDs began being issued in 2011, but less than 500,000 have been issued statewide.

The new IDs are available at Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) Drivers License exam offices.

County license and probate offices will be able to renew STAR IDs, but not issue them. They do not cost any more or less than a traditional driver’s license.

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

Your loyal companion, Our dedicated focus!

•

s e w a o l

/ C

STAR ID Requirements Delayed Until 2021

By Zach Hester Reporter

B M

b o D H C p g

FRIDAY — APRIL 24, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

5

POLITICS

Public Servants Spreading Love

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

ALABAMA — Public servants are staying extremely busy dealing with the coronavirus but are making sure to take out time to spread a little love.

Recently, Facebook has been flooded with videos of random acts of kindness by public servants helping children and adults alike celebrate their special days with parades complete with sirens blaring and lights flashing.

The quarantine has limited social gatherings such as birthday parties, for a young child, this is devastating. Our local law enforcement and fire departments alike are easing that pain. This week alone they have been busy providing cheer in such a confusing time.

On Monday, Ruby Claire Rogers was surprised with a parade by her home for her ninth birthday. Kala Matthews of the Pisgah Fire Department and Craig Holcomb of the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office played a huge role in getting the parade

Ruby Claire Rogers (Submitted Photo)

organized. Well-wishers treated Ruby with homemade signs wishing her well along with presents dropped off at the road. Other public servants helped in the following celebrations: • Nine-year-old Wyatt Jackson of Fort Payne was surprised on Tuesday as well by the Fort Payne Police Department and the Fort Payne Fire Department.

• Reserve Sylvania Police Officer Lee Hearn organized a parade on Saturday for his Grandmother and Aunt whom he has not been able to see since the quarantine.

While these efforts may seem small to some, they bring so much joy to others. During this time, we all should try to spread the love to others.

Be sure to thank a public servant for going above and beyond their call of duty.

Inside The Statehouse with Steve Flowers

By Steve Flowers, ST Columnist MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Many of you have lamented to me that it appears that all or most of our state political leaders are older folks. On first glance, that appears to be true. However, on a deeper observation we have some extremely talented younger stars on the horizon. In fact, they are already in the ring and making a difference.

There are a few names that are worth watching.

Allow me to share with you a select group of Alabama’s under 45 outstanding leaders. There are two superstars already on the scene and leading the state: State Representative Bill Poole of Tuscaloosa and Lt. Governor Will Ainsworth.

Rep. Bill Poole is a true leader, not a politician. He quietly and effectively gets things done. In close to six decades of observing the legislature, I have never seen anyone rise to the level of diplomacy and effectiveness as Poole while at the same time be universally liked and respected by the entire legislature on both sides of the aisle. He has been in the legislature for only 10 years. However, after only four years he was made chairman of the House Ways and Means Education Budget Committee. This is one of, if not the most powerful positions in the legislature.

Poole may make a statewide move in 2022.

However, from a power standpoint there are very few statewide positions that would equal being Chairman of the Ways and Means Education Budget Committee.

Governor or U.S. Senator are the only two that would be comparable.

Speaking of Governor, our young 39 year old Lt. Governor, Will Ainsworth has an unabashed eye on the Governor’s office in 2022. If Kay Ivey does not run for a second term as most experts think will be the case, Ainsworth will be the frontrunner. He has set his sights on the brass ring and will be tough to beat. He has a very attractive young family and is a very good campaigner. He is very conservative and hails from vote rich North Alabama.

Another fellow that is Ainsworth’s neighbor from Sand Mountain, State Senator Clay Scofield, is the brightest young star under 45 in the Alabama State Senate. Scofield is a folksy farmer, who you cannot help but like. He comes from a long line of prominent farmers. He is in his third term and is only 39 years old and is already in a leadership position in the Senate.

Another senator to watch is 40-year-old freshman Chris Elliott from Baldwin County. He has previously served on the Baldwin County Commission and knows how to get things done. He is going to be an effective voice for the Gulf Coast region of the state.

Young 36-year-old Senator Andrew Jones is going to be a strong advocate for his Cherokee/Etowah County constituents. He works hard at home staying in touch with folks in his district.

The name that appears on most lists as the freshman Senator to watch is Cullman County’s Garlan Gudger. He is very sincere and exudes integrity. He is a businessman, non-lawyer which is more of the profile in the Republican laden State Senate.

The House of Representatives has at least four young under 45 superstars. State Representative, Chris England, 43, is atop the list. He is the son of prominent Tuscaloosa Judge John England. Chris, like his dad, is a lawyer by profession. He is in his third term in the House and is also Chairman of the Alabama Democratic Party.

Representative Anthony Daniels of Huntsville is a superstar. He is serving his second term from the Rocket City and it is apropos that he is a high-tech businessman. This 36 year old gentleman is handsome, articulate, and chairs the Democratic Caucus in the House.

Representative Kyle South, who represents Fayette and Tuscaloosa Counties, is on a fast track in the House and understands politics.

Representative Wes Allen of Troy has a bright future. He is 44 and has already served 10 years as Probate Judge of Pike County.

You may have noticed that I have listed nine legislators, four from the Senate and five from the House. Three of the nine are from the Tuscaloosa metro area – Bill Poole, Chris England, and Kyle South – not a bad sign for the Druid City.

Newly elected Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed makes the list of the brightest young leaders in the state at 45. The Mayor of Alabama’s largest city, Birmingham, Randall Woodfin, is only 38. Therefore, the mayors of two of Alabama’s largest cities are 45 and under.

This concludes the 45 and under superstars that are actually in the political arena. Stay tuned next week, we will give you a list of those that affect the arena.

GAMES

Weather Word Search

W E C F T O D A N R O T S X C H K S

Q A S Z D S N O W G K O L P H Y U D

A W S D G V C N J U J H G F E W A U

O L K T N G F E W X A V G O W L U O

T R F C O E W S Z I C B N G I O P L

E W Q X C R B N L J Y H M G N E U C

Rain Sun Weather Clouds

S U N G F R M D X Z A W F D D A Q W

M K O W E A T H E R W S M V Y T R A

Q A Z X C I T G H B F E M N G C U L

Storm Windy Climate Hail

I P L Q F N V M K S T V C A Z M I O

D O O L F E F G T Y U E T A M I L C

Snow Fog Flood Tornado

The LORD your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.

ZEPHANIAH 3:17

CRYPTOGRAM TFCI QI HOHGHPE SA EPXGFEI S TSGOIX HW RISPAFWPK WKHUIGE UVIGI F DSX USKY PXOFEAPGRIO. — USKA UVFAQSX YOUR HINT: S = A The Southern Torch Cryptogram is a new part of our game section. Quotes are selected from famous people, past and present. Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

6

FRIDAY — APRIL 24, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Large Amount of Narcotics 75 Confirmed COVID-19 Cases at Wayne Farms Seized in Rainsville

By Southern Torch Staff FORT PAYNE, Ala. —From the Office of DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden: Last Tuesday (April 7, 2020) the DCSO seized a large amount of illegal narcotics in Rainsville.

The investigation was initiated after receiving numerous complaints from the community regarding possible drug activity on Hancock Drive in Rainsville. Through the course of the investiga-

tion, a search warrant was obtained for the residence.

Deputies and Agents conducted the search around 10 pm that night and found approximately a pound of marijuana, 7 marijuana plants, illegal prescription pills, numerous items of drug paraphernalia, and an undisclosed amount of U.S. currency.

Two occupants of the home, Barry Rice (40 of Rainsville) and Ocean Phoenix Rice (18 of

Rainsville) were both charged with Possession of Marijuana 1st Degree and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden said: “This is a great job by our narcotics agents and deputies. Though we’ve had to modify our operations due to the current coronavirus epidemic, we’re going to continue counter-drug operations in our communities.� “Part of operating at the highest level of law enforcement in our county means not only policing unincorporated areas but also pursuing narcotics within the city limits,� he said. “God Bless!�

Concluded Sheriff Welden.

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com ALBERTVILLE, Ala. – Wayne Farms, a producer and processor of poultry in Albertville, is reporting several cases of COVID-19 in their Albertville plant, which employs approximately 850 people.

According to a representative of Wayne Farms, 75 employees have tested positive for

COVID-19 with one death.

250 additional employees may have been exposed and are currently being quarantined or voluntarily taking time off.

Employees will be

practicing social distancing and will be provided with face masks and other protective equipment. The plant will continue to operate on limited production.

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

DEATH NOTICES

Remembering Gary Coker

RAINSVILLE Harold Bludsworth - 73 of Snead, passed away on Sunday, April 19.

The family will hold a private visitation and graveside service.

Herbert Hoover Stephens - 91 of High Point, passed away on Sunday, April 19. The family will hold a private visitation and graveside services.

KERBY SUBMITTED PHOTO

By Southern Torch Staff CROSSVILLE, Ala. — Gary Coker, 76 of Dawson, passed away on Monday, April 13, 2020 at Collinsville Health and Rehab.

His family will hold a private graveside service on Thursday, April 16, 2020 at DeKalb Memory Gardens with Crossville Memorial Chapel directing.

Coker is survived by his wife, Marie; son, Robi Coker (Melissa); grandchildren, Lily Kate and Rob Coker; sisters, Jane Brooks (Jearl), Nancy Hall and Becky Willoughby (Johnny); sister-in-law, Freida Coker and a host of nieces and nephews.

Coker was preceded in death by his parents, Bob and Elsie Coker, and his brother, Billy Coker.

The family has requested no flowers. Donations may be made to Big Oak Ranch or Skirum United Methodist Church.

To receive your print edition of DeKalb County’s #1 News Source, please call our office at (256) 638-4040! Follow us on social media at @southerntorch on all platforms!

Dorothy Chandler - 83 of Henagar, passed away on Thursday, April 16. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, arrangements are private.

W.T. WILSON John Thomas Machen - 87 of Albertville, passed away on Tuesday, April 14. The family will be having a private graveside service.

Derek Scott Higgins - 45 of Rainsville, passed away on Wednesday, April 15. Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, the family will hold a private graveside service.

Altie Lucille Moore - 92 of Fyffe, passed

away on Wednesday, April 15. The family will be having a private graveside service.

William Martin Caves - 60 of Cedar Bluff, passed away on Saturday, April 18. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

R. Lee Bailey - 91.

The family will hold a private graveside service with burial at Green’s Chapel Cemetery.

Belinda Clark Key - 73 of Fort Payne, passed away on Tuesday, April 21. The family will be holding a private graveside service.

Clifton Anderson - 88, passed away on Wednesday, April 15. A graveside service was held on Friday, April 17 at 1 p.m. at Hunt’s Chapel Cemetery.

COLLINSVILLE Charles Wheeler Ball - 85 of Flat Rock, passed away on Friday, April 17. The family will hold a private graveside service at Smith Cemetery.

Ola Ruth Smith - 92

WILSON Jean Igou Harper - 94 of Fort Payne, passed away on Monday, April 13. Due to gathering restrictions, private services will be held with a Celebration of Life service held by the family at a later date.

Imogene Vaughn 89 of Fort Payne, passed away on Saturday, April 18. Due to gathering restrictions, private services are planned.

Billy Ritenour - 85 of Fort Payne, passed away on Monday, April 20. Due to gathering restrictions, private services will be held with a Celebration of Life service scheduled for a later date.

COLLINSVILLE

Burt Funeral H omes since 1982

of Bryant, passed away on Saturday, April 18. A graveside service will be held at Oak Lawn Memorial Park with Bro. Larry Walker officiating.

since 1969

 �

@

Traditional funeral, cremation and monument services

Know your

neighbor?

I’M THERE

M. Chris Kuykendall

1827 Gault Ave. North Fort Payne, AL 35967 Bus 256 845-4934 chris.kuykendall.b17y@statefarm.com

Ider Discount Drugs

@

FRIDAY — APRIL 24, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

7

New & Used Auto Loans

% 1.94 | RATES AS LOW AS

APR*

UP TO 48 MONTHS FINANCING 90 DAY PAYMENT DEFERRAL OPTION OFFER GOOD THROUGH JUNE 30th

APPLY NOW: ATCU.com

Get the perfect rate on your perfect ride.

Fort Payne Office

700 Gault Ave S

Ft. Payne, AL 35967

256.997.9002

*APR=Annual Percentage Rate. Must meet membership and credit requirements. Rate may vary based on each individual borrower’s credit history and other underwriting factors.

Offer is not applicable to existing ATCU loans. Term of up to 48 months for year models 2016-2020. Estimated monthly repayment amount of $21.67 per $1,000.00 borrowed.

Borrower(s) may elect to defer the first payment due date up to 90 days from the date the loan is originated; however, interest will continue to accrue from origination until the date of the first payment. Programs, rates, terms, and conditions subject to change without notice. For more information, see an ATCU loan officer. Insured by NCUA. ATCU NMLS# 402558

IT’S TIME TO WIN THE DAY PREMIER MEMBERSHIP

• • •

• •  • � � • � •

�  ­ • •

€

• %  � � ( � / � ) • %  �

BECOME A FOUNDING MEMBER TODAY!

SANDMOUNTAINPARK.COM/WINTHEDAY

8

FRIDAY — APRIL 24, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

•

A Jack of All Trades

If you need it done, call us!

✓

Speciality & Hard to Reach Places

✓

Water Drainage, Sewer, Ponds, & Pools

✓

Grated AND Rock!

✓

Mowing, Mulching, Tree & Bush Trimming,Weeding, & Gutter Cleaning!

✓

Hot & Cold Water for Anything & Everything!

glennwjones@me.com