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• CONTINUED: Commission Strives to Open Roads • See Who's Featured in our Business Spotlight!

Who's Ready for Some Football?

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

ALABAMA-- On Thursday, the Alabama High School Athletic Association announced that football will be played this fall.

According to the press conference and the AHSAA Best Practices Return to Play for 2020 guidelines, the purpose is to have complete athletic seasons through championship plays.

School systems may choose to begin fall practice on or after July 27. Two-a-day practices are prohibited during the week of July 27 but may begin on August 3.

A few of the highlights of the press conference were that football season will start as originally scheduled.

Athletes can attend school either in person or through virtual means.

School districts will decide whether they will play or opt-out of competition without penalty. Districts can also decide if fans will be allowed to attend the games. “As long as the AHSAA does not change course, we will be playing ball and at this time we do not anticipate limiting

>> READY, P5

THIS WEEK IN POLITICS

• Inside The Statehouse with Steve Flowers • Local Candidates Announce Campaigns

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THIS WEEK IN COMMUNITY • NACC Names Scholarship for Peggy Turner • CONTINUED: No Tech Fees for Students

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

TWEET

THIS WEEK IN SPORTS

• DeKalb HOF Postpones Banquet • CONTINUED: Who's Ready for Some Football?

Ivey Extends Health Order, Mask Mandate

By Zach Hester Reporter zach@southerntorch.com MONTGOMERY, Ala. — At a press conference on Wednesday, Governor Kay Ivey (R-Ala.) extended the State of Alabama’s “Safer-at-Home� order, which includes a statewide mask mandate, until the end of August.

The order was previously set to expire at 5 p.m. on Friday, July 31. The updated order now includes a mask requirement for students and faculty participating in in-person instruction at schools this fall for

students from 2nd grade through college.

Ivey encouraged schools to “get kids back in classrooms as quickly as possible.�

Two weeks ago, Ivey announced the statewide mandate requiring masks for Alabamians when you are within six feet of another person outside your household, a vehicle operated by a transportation service, or an outdoor public space where 10 or more people are gathered.

The order defines "mask" as any covering that covers both the nose and mouth. Exceptions for the order include practical

Commission Strives to Open County Roads

necessities defined by the Alabama Department of Public Health, some exercise, and voting or religious worship, though masks are encouraged in all of these scenarios as well. “I believe we are making progress in this arena,� said Ivey. “Wearing a mask can’t hurt, but it sure can help.�

At the time of press, the State of Alabama had 81,687 cases with almost 1,500 deaths. 32,510 Alabamians are labeled as “presumed recoveries.�

To read the full order, please visit alabamapublichealth.gov.

On Wednesday, Governor Kay Ivey opted to extend the state's mask mandate and "safer-at-home" order. (Alabama Governor's Office)

No Technology Fees for DeKalb Students

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

DeKalb Co. Road Superintendent Tom Broyles addressed the Commission regarding efforts to reopen all county roads. (Marla Jones | Southern Torch)

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com DEKALB COUNTY, Ala. — (Full video on southerntorch.com) The DeKalb County Commission held their regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, July 28.

Road Superintendent, Tom Broyles gave the Commission updates on the recent Easter Flood Damage and the road department attempts to get all roads ready for traffic. The Easter Event was one of the largest flooding events in the area.

Broyles also brought forth the purchase of new trucks. The amount for the trucks will be $20,000 less

than previously spent on vehicle purchases. The Commission approved the purchase.

County Engineer, Ben Luther requested a Vacation Public Hearing for an abandoned section of CR 628. With no one in the audience commenting, the Commission voted to vacate the abandoned section of the road.

With the recent grant that was received by the DeKalb County Sheriffs Office, the office will be able to hire more employees. Sheriff Nick Welden stated to the Commission that he would like to fill those positions from within. Seth Butler, Logan Smith along with

>> ROADS, P4

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RAINSVILLE, Ala. — (Full video on southerntorch.com) On Thursday, the DeKalb County Board of Education (BOE) held their regularly scheduled meeting.

Superintendent Dr. Jason Barnett gave the Board a COVID-19 update and it was agreed to enter into a contract with Cintas to sanitize all schools weekly. The Board also agreed that In light of COVID-19, to waive the 2020-21 technology fee for all students.Dr. Barnett advised the board that after speaking with Ridgeway family members, that it was their desire to rename the LongRidgeway Stadium to Paul Benefield Stadium at Long-Ridgeway Field, which was approved by the Board. Paul Benefield is a legend in the coaching world. He is 9th on the all-time wins list for the State of Alabama.

Benefield's overall record is 297-53 with a winning percentage of 84.9

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percent. He has won four state championships and has never coached a losing record over his 28-year long career.

In other business, the Board approved the following: On the Job Injury: Adam Haynes Maintenance Worker Facilities - 16 days Retirements/ Resignations • Terry McNew - Bus Driver - Ruhama Jr. High School - Retirement • Connie McFall Elementary Teacher Plainview High School - Retirement • Tracy Gilliland English Language Arts Teacher - Crossville High School - Retirement • Clifford Millican Bus Driver - Ider Special Services Center - Resignation • Tiffany Jenkins Itinerant Special

Education Teacher Crossville Middle School (Resignation) • Leah Smallwood Itinerant Elementary Special Education Teacher - Geraldine High School - Resignation • Brandon Renfroe - General Science Teacher - Plainview High School - Resignation Leave of Absence • Misty Brooks Itinerant Special Education Teacher Geraldine High School - 8/3/20-8/31/20 • Ashlea Veal Elementary Teacher CollinsvilleHigh School - 8/3/20-5/31/21 Transfers • Justin Croley Middle School Math Teacher at Crossville Middle School to 1⠄2 Assistant Principal / 1⠄2 Instructional Coach at Crossville Middle School • Riley Edwards Elementary Teacher at Crossville Middle School to Secondary P.E. Teacher and Assistant Football Coaching Duties at

>> BOE, P3

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 — JULY 31, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

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Brooks Defends Alabama's U.S. Capitol Statues

(brooks.house.gov)

By B.A. Little, Reporter beverlyannette@southerntorch.com WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a press release last week, U.S. Representative Mo Brooks (R-Ala.) defended Alabama statues in the U.S. Capitol. “The 1864 U.S. Capitol statuary collection law gives states the power to determine who they wish to honor.

This makes perfect sense. Just as it would be wrong for Alabama and other states to dictate to New York and California who they must honor, it is similarly wrong and repulsive for New York, California, or other states to dictate to Alabama who we must honor,� said Brooks. “Ignoring history and led by Socialist Democrats, the House voted this week to remove American patriot Joe Wheeler’s statue from the Capitol, thereby empowering other states to dictate to a single state who that state can, or cannot, honor.�

Brooks continued, “Historical figures like George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Teddy Roosevelt, and Thomas Jefferson (all honored at Mount Rushmore) are being erased because each of these brave American leaders stood for liberty and freedom, the exact opposite of the socialism and fascism so many in Congress now mindlessly advocate as they seek to stifle competing views, political philosophies, and ways of life they disagree with and seek to destroy.�

The 1864 National Statuary Collection law says each state may “furnish statues‌of deceased persons who have been citizens thereof, and illustrious for their historic renown or for distinguished civic or military services such as each State may deem to be worthy of this national commemoration.â€? The 1864 law clearly defers to states the power to determine who they wish to honor.

Alabama chose to honor Joe Wheeler, the only Confederate general to later become a United States general. General Wheeler oversaw Teddy Roosevelt and the Rough Riders charge up San Juan Hill in the Spanish-American War & served in the Philippines in 1900. General Wheeler’s service was so respected by America that he earned the right to be buried in Arlington National Cemetery.

Congressman Brooks concluded “I proudly voted ‘No’ on H.R. 7573. Alabama, not New Yorkers, Californians, or anyone else, should decide who we wish to honor in Alabama’s contribution to the National Statuary Collection.�

Basscats Win State

Pictured are members of the team along with their boat captains (L to R): AJ Widgeon, Tanner Barclay, Matt McLaughlin, CLay Barclay, Kevin Grider, Kolby Clark, Barclay Butler (Kneeling, L to R): Connor McLaughlin, Landon Grider

By Marla Jones ST Managing/Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com JACKSON COUNTY, Ala. — In only their second year as a team, The Scottsboro BassCats Fishing Team won the 2020 Alabama BASS Nation High School State Tournament Championship. The tournament was held Friday and Saturday on

Lake Guntersville.

The BassCats won the state title in the six-man team division with a total weight of 67.28. The team is coached by Cully Nelson.

Four members of the Scottsboro BASSCATS team qualified for Nationals that will be held on October 18-24 at Kentucky Lake in Paris, Tenn.: Connor McLaughlin/Barclay Butler (3rd at state), Tanner

Barclay/AJ Widgeon (30th at state), Kolby Clark/ Landon Grider (11th at state), Grant West/ Cameron Thompson (9th at state) “We are super proud of this accomplishment and can't thank our boat captains enough for the many hours the put in to make our team successful also a special thanks to all

of our sponsors,� stated Coach Cully Nelson.

Others teams who fished in the State Championship: • Matt Croft/Eli Mason 45th • Karston Renfore/ Sawyer Evans 52nd • Carter Cooper/Wynn Reed 103rd • Buckner Anderson/ Greyson Widgeon 126th

Hanes Drafts Bill Banning Confucius Institutes from Public Universities

By Dylan Smith JB Managing Editor dylan@southerntorch.com

SCOTTSBORO, Ala. — State Rep. Tommy Hanes (R-Bryant) has drafted a bill that would bar Confucius Institutes from operating on publicly funded college campuses. “Confucius Institutes operate as a propagandist arm of the Chinese Communist Party,� says Hanes. “The Chinese government is attempting to indoctrinate young Americans by infiltrating (Flickr) our very own universities.

This must be put to a stop.�

The bill reads in part: “This bill would prohibit public institutions of higher education from providing support for, funding for, or use of its

B M m Hanes is teaming up with the CRFA for a bill that will ban Confucius Institutes in Alabama. (Submitted Photo)

campus facilities for the operation of cultural institutes, such as Confucius Institutes, that are affiliated with funded by, or supported by the government of China.�

Hanes is teaming up with the College Republican Federation of Alabama, who earlier this year passed a resolution urging colleges to reconsider their relationships with Confucius Institutes.

The CRFA provided evidence that the institutes, which operate under the guise of promoting Chinese culture and language, are supported and operated by the Communist government.

The CRFA says Li Changchun, a Chinese Communist Party (CCP) boss, reportedly described

Confucius Institutes as “an important part of China’s overseas propaganda set-up.�

The Institutes are also reportedly funded by the United Front Work Department, the Chinese Government agency that coordinates foreign influence operations.

Hanes said leaders must do everything in their power to halt Chinese government infiltration in

American academia.

U “College campuses are o bastions of free speech and D academic freedom, S principles that o communism explicitly a seeks to destroy,� says p Hanes. u Hanes concludes, “We U must make clear that the Chinese government will have no safe harbor to promote the evils of communism in the State of Alabama.�

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

FRIDAY — JULY 31, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

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COMMUNITY

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NACC Foundation Introduces Memorial Scholarship

By Southern Torch Staff

POWELL, Ala. — Northeast Alabama Community College (NACC) and the NACC Foundation are pleased to introduce the Peggy Sparks Turner Memorial Scholarship. This memorial scholarship, presented by the family of the late Peggy Sparks Turner, will afford a non-traditional student an opportunity to gain further education to secure a better job or career. “Peggy Sparks Turner was a guiding influence in the lives of many with her constant loving-kindness.

She lived by the tenet of loving others and never missed an opportunity to show people that she cared

for them,� says Cassie McFadden, granddaughter of Mrs. Turner.

Peggy was born into a large farming family, and she made the decision to stop going to school after 10th grade so she could help out at home caring for her younger siblings. This love for children never ended. She raised a family of her own while also providing care for children throughout Jackson, DeKalb, and Marshall counties. She was a pillar of her church community where she led children’s Sunday school classes and numerous other youth events for over 20 years.

The scholarship serves as a concrete reminder of the impact Turner left on

her family and community. “My mother had a love and passion for her family, church, and community.

She taught us all to trust in ourselves, to help our neighbors, and to love all people. She always had a prayer on her lips and a song in her heart,� says Turner’s daughter Beckey McFadden. “We are so grateful to the Peggy Sparks Turner family,� stated NACC President Dr. David Campbell. “The scholarship they are offering will not only honor Mrs. Turner but will benefit the educations and the lives of our students for years to come.�

The Peggy Turner Memorial Scholarship is a

(Submitted Photo)

$1,000 scholarship that will be awarded to a non-traditional NACC student pursuing a degree in Education, Arts, or a Career/Technical Certificate Program. The student should also have a passion for community involvement and volunteer work. “Even though her formal education was

BOE

CRIME

Suspicious Seeds Show Up in U.S. Mailboxes

(Submitted Photo)

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com ALABAMA —The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) along with other state and federal agencies are investigating packages that have shown up in mailboxes across the United States.

These packages

contain seed packages from China. Officials are collecting the packages and will test their contents to determine if they contain anything that could be detrimental to our county’s agriculture and environment.

The USDA urges anyone that receives a package that contains seeds to contact their state agricultural division.

Suspects Arrested for Vehicle Breakin and Vandalism

By Southern Torch Staff FORT PAYNE, Ala. — From the Office of DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden: Last week, a team of DeKalb County investigators and deputies made arrests regarding a car break-in at Dobson Cabinet Shop and damage to gates at Fyffe Town Park.

Charges were also finalized on a suspect in unrelated car break-ins and a manhunt in Geraldine last week.

At approximately 7 a.m. on Wednesday, July 22, the suspect broke into a vehicle at Dobson Cabinet Shop at Peak’s Corner on County Road 50. The suspect’s vehicle was caught on multiple security cameras during the incidents. In addition, the suspect drive through two locked gates at Fyffe Town Park.

Angelia Smith (35 of Grove Oak) was arrested and charged with Unlawful Breaking and Entering of a vehicle. The Fyffe Police Department is pursuing additional charges regarding the damaged gates at the town park.

Also this week, Jonathan Richards (42 of Geraldine) was served all of the warrants regarding

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 Teresa Smith, Traffic Director Dylan Smith, Jackson Blaze Managing Editor Lindsey Jones, Accounting Marshall Stiefel, Distribution Manager Tim Jones, Account Executive

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limited, my grandmother was a fierce advocate of us getting an education. She instilled in us a passionate curiosity for learning new things that have benefited us both in the classroom and in the workplace all of our lives,� adds Turner’s granddaughter Cassie McFadden. She continues, “We are proud to continue her legacy of caring for

(Angelia Smith | DCSC)

(Jonathan Richards | DCSC)

the string of car break-ins and ensuing manhunt in Geraldine that occurred last Tuesday (July 14, 2020). At approximately 1 pm on Tuesday, DeKalb County Investigators went to a residence on Crowe Street in Geraldine in an attempt to speak with a suspect regarding the vehicle break-ins the night before. The suspect then barricaded himself in the residence, and shortly after, the house caught fire.

The Geraldine, Crossville, and Fyffe Fire Departments all responded to the blaze.

Richards remains in the jail on charges of Burglary 3 rd Degree (x2), Breaking and Entering a Vehicle (x9), Theft of Property 2 nd Degree (x3), Theft of Property 4th Degree, and Criminal Mischief 3 rd Degree. He currently has a $153,500 bond. “We’re blessed to have a dedicated team of investigators here in our county that pursue major crimes as soon as they occur," said Sheriff Welden.

"Our Deputies and Narcotics Agents also do a great job stepping up in major incidents to help get the offender in custody.�

FROM PAGE 1 Crossville High School • Tracy Butts Elementary Teacher at Crossville Middle School to Elementary teacher at Geraldine High School • Joanna Howell Itinerant EL Teacher at Crossville Middle School to Elementary Teacher at Crossville Middle School • Christy White Itinerant EL Teacher to English Language Arts Teacher at Crossville High School • Jacob BrownElementary Teacher to Assistant Principal at Collinsville High School Placements Certified • Christopher Self Itinerant Special Education Teacher Geraldine High School • Clay Mitchell - AgriScience Teacher (10 months) - Crossville High School • Amy M. Lewis Itinerant Elementary Special Education Teacher - Geraldine High School • Michaela White Itinerant EL Teacher Collinsville High School • Ryan Stanley Elementary Teacher Collinsville High School • John Mayfield Middle School Math Teacher - Crossville Middle School • Melanie Wren Mathematics Teacher Sylvania High School • Deborah YoungElementary Teacher Valley Head High School • Jonathan Ty Cole Social Sciences Teacher - Crossville High School • Brandy Dupree High School Counselor - Valley Head High School • Cassey Donielle Hall - Itinerant EL Teacher -

others in providing this memorial scholarship to benefit individuals seeking to improve their lives with education.�

NACC’s Development Director Heather Rice offers a few thoughts on creating a Foundation scholarship. “Scholarships in memory of a loved one is a great way to honor that person. We can add stipulations to personalize the scholarship around their interests or career, such as a math scholarship, a nursing scholarship, and a technical scholarship, for example. Funding a scholarship through the NACC Foundation gives our students unique financial opportunities to help pay for college,� says Rice.

Crossville High School • April Ivey - Itinerant Special Education Teacher - Crossville Middle School • Tobey Hicks - Jr. High Volleyball Coaching Duties Only - Crossville Middle School Support • Beth Thomas - CNP Worker - Plainview High School • Lona Kilgo - Itinerant Bus Paraprofessional Fyffe Special Services Center • Vickie Gary - Break Store Worker - Geraldine High School • Scott Psalter - Bus Driver - Ruhama Jr. High School Volunteer Coaches • Collinsville: Bear Jones - Basketball, Jeff Chandler - Baseball, Rodney Hamilton Basketball, Teddy Helms - Football, Chad Wilks - Softball, Perry Hughes - Baseball, Kelvin Stewart - Baseball, David Hernandez - Soccer, James Coker - Softball, Jeff Patton - Softball, Mike McElrath Football • Geraldine: Karlee Hale - Volleyball • Plainview: Phillip Jackson - Football, John Prose - Football • Valley Head: Alex Carpenter - Football, Zachery Neal Ridgeway - Football Contracts • GO PLAY Therapy Occupational Therapy IDEA B • Jennifer Willoughby - Contracted Computer Technician - Local • Levi Maness Contracted Computer Technician - Local • Margaret Brown - Central Office Clerical Help - Local The next meeting of the BOE will be held on August 27 with a work session at 4 p.m. and a meeting at 5 p.m.

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LEGALS

LEGALS

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA

Case No.: 2020-160 IN RE: THE ESTATE OF GREG LISTER, DECEASED

Case No.: 2020-2041

NOTICE TO FILE CLAIMS TAKE NOTICE that Letters of Administration Cum Testamento Annexo having been granted to PAT TATE, as Administrator CTA of the Estate of GREG LISTER, deceased, on the 13th day of July 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.

PAT TATE, Administrator CTA of the Estate of GREG LISTER, deceased To be published: July 17, July 24, July 31

IN THE MATTER OF THE ADOPTION PETITION OF HAROLD THOMPSON and CONNIE THOMPSON PETITIONER'S NOTICE OF HEARING ALABAMA ADOPTION CODE 26-10A-17 TO: JERRICA L. REED THOMPSON and WILLIAM JOSHUA THOMPSON and any other interested party claiming parental rights or other rights with respect to K.K.T., a female child born on July 6, 2009.

Please take notice that a Petition for Adoption in the above styled matter has been filed in said Court by the Petitioners, HAROLD THOMPSON and CONNIE THOMPSON and that the 22nd day of October, 2020 at 10 O'Clock a.m. has been set for a hearing in said court at the DeKalb County Courthouse

Ider Discount Drugs

@

in Fort Payne, Alabama. Please be advised that if you intend to contest this adoption, you must file a written response within 30 days hereof with the Attorney for Petitioners, Finis Royal, 132 East Peachtree, Scottsboro, Alabama and with the Clerk of Said Probate Court.

Done this 22nd day of July, 2020.

To be published: July 31, August 7, August 14, August 21

LEGALS IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF JACKSON COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No.: JU-2014-18.02 NOTICE OF TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS ACTION Maranda Marie McCrary, whose whereabouts are unknown, must answer Ottis and Donna McCrary's petition for the termination of the parental rights of Maranda Marie McCrary as to her child W.C.D. (10.15.2012). Said Maranda Marie McCrary, must answer the petition to terminate her parental rights in the Jackson County, Alabama District Court in case numbers JU2014-18.02 no later than the 20th day of September, 2020, and show cause why her parental rights should not be terminated. Done this 24th day of July, 2020.

Bart Buchanan, Clerk of the Court To be published: July 31, August 7, August 14, August 21

ROADS FROM PAGE 1

Will Formby will advance from jailers to deputy positions.

County Administrator, Matt Sharp asked that the FY20-21 Transportation Contract, which is an annual contract be renewed. The Commission approved the contract.

Sharp advised that three polling places would be closed before the November 2020 election.

All changes must be made within 90 days of the election. The polling sites that will be closed will be Five-Points, Pea Ridge, and Antioch.

District 4 Chair for the DeKalb County Republican Party, Marshall Stiefel was present at the Commission meeting. “I want to thank the Commission for their speedy work in getting these polling places closed.

Voter turnout was low at these sites. I feel like it will be more cost-efficient for the voters of DeKalb County� concluded Stiefel.

The next meeting of the DeKalb County Commission will be held on August 11, 2020.

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Firefighter Recognized as "Unsung Hero"

PICTURED: Garrett Eckert (Blake VFD), Steve Dover (Fatman's Pens), and Jason Foster (Blake VFD)

By Zach Hester, Reporter • zach@southerntorch.com DeKALB COUNTY, Ala. — Garrett Eckert, Asst. Chief of the Blake Volunteer Fire Department (VFD), was honored earlier this month as an "unsung hero" with a special, handcrafted ink pen from Fatman's Pens.

"It was simply an opportunity for our business to spotlight a member of our local responder community," said Steve Dover, crafter and owner of Fatman's Pens.

Eckert was chosen at random for the prize. Nominees can include anyone in the first responder community.

"The people that work these jobs often go unnoticed and underappreciated," Dover concluded. "It was an honor to recognize these heroes with our pens."

Jason Foster, a fellow member of the Blake VFD, nominated Eckert for the prize, and in turn, Eckert requested a second pen be made and given to his nominator.

For more information, please viist Fatman's Pens on Facebook or contact them via fatmanspens@gmail.com.

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5

POLITICS

Fleming Seeks Huber Announces Tarrant to Run for Campaign for Geraldine Council Seat on Rainsville Council Rainsville Council Submitted by Scott Tarrant

themselves to be an exceptional listener, I have learned that leadership, integrity, and honesty are the core values of any successful venture. I intend to bring those same values to the Rainsville City Council.”

“I have a strong work ethic that has guided me for my entire life,” Fleming continued. “If I am fortunate enough to represent you on the Council, I will bring that same mentality. I work for the people, the people don’t work for me.”

“The City of Rainsville deserves representation that works for them and truly hears what they have to say. I will spend the money of Rainsville’s hardworking citizens wisely,” he concluded. “I humbly ask for your vote and support on Tuesday, August 25.”

Submitted by Mark Huber RAINSVILLE, Ala. — Mark Huber has announced his campaign for Rainsville City Council, Place 5. The election will be held on Tuesday, August 25.

Huber is the General Manager of WVSM Radio in Rainsville, Ala. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Management of Technology from Athens State University. In addition, he also holds an EMS, EMT-Intermediate degree from NACC. He is a 1982 graduate of Plainview High School.

He is an Amateur Radio Operator & Severe Storm Spotter for the National Weather Service. Mr. Huber has served on the Rainsville City Council (1992-1996), 20+ years on the Northeast Alabama

Home and Garden Show Board of Directors, as a former member of the Rainsville Rescue Squad serving as an Intermediate EMT, a former volunteer fireman with the Rainsville Fire Department, a former reserve police officer with the Rainsville Police Department, and a former volunteer with the Dekalb EMA. Mark is the husband of Regina (Morgan) Huber and the father of Halle and Harrison Huber.

“Being an EMT, I believe we need to strengthen our emergency services in our city and treat those serving in that capacity with respect.

These men and women put their lives on the line every day to help save and protect lives. Our emergency service personnel, along with any city employee, should never feel threaten or intimidated by those elected to office.

I am a lifelong resident of Rainsville, own a business in Rainsville, and I want to see the best for Rainsville.”

Your consideration in the August 25th election is greatly appreciated!

1961.

This has already been one of the most unusual presidential election years in American history. The COVID-19 pandemic has turned the world upside down, especially the American economy. The economy is the pivotal issue that decides presidential elections.

Prior to the pandemic, the economy was Trump’s trump card. The economic collapse caused by the pandemic was not Trump’s fault but it happened on his watch. There is an old political maxim that says, “If you claim credit for the rain, then you gotta take the blame for the drought.”

Trump was not in the lead prior to the pandemic disaster. He is certainly behind the eight ball today.

The country is divided like never before in our history.

You either live in a red Republican state like Alabama or a blue Democratic state like California. Under the electoral college system of selecting our president, the election is won or lost in the swing states like Florida, Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Minnesota.

Current polling has

Biden ahead in all of these pivotal states. He has double-digit leads in Michigan and his birth home of Pennsylvania. It looks like Joe Biden is favored to be the next president at almost 80 years old. Therefore, it is extremely important who he chooses as his running mate to be vice president.

Biden has unequivocally stated that his vice-president will be a female. His choice probably will boil down to California Senator Kamala Harris. Originally, it was between Minnesota Senator, Amy Klobuchar and Senator Kamala Harris.

Senator Klobuchar would have been an excellent choice. She was well qualified and thoroughly vetted. She is Minnesota’s senior senator having represented her native state since 2006.

She is very popular in her

home state and would probably have brought the swing state of Minnesota into the Democratic column.

However, she withdrew her name for consideration after it became apparent that the Democratic Party base demanded Biden choose a female candidate of color.

Senator Kamala Harris, 55, has had a stellar career. She is very well qualified to be president.

She ran an excellent campaign for the Democratic nomination earlier this year and is a U.S. Senator from the largest state in the Union.

She was Attorney General of California prior to being elected to the U.S. Senate from the Golden State. She classifies herself as African-American. Her mother was an Indian/ American/Canadian cancer researcher. Her father was a Jamaican born

Submitted by Steven Fleming RAINSVILLE, Ala. — Steven Fleming has announced his campaign for Rainsville City Council, place 1. The election will be held on Tuesday, August 25, 2020.

Fleming is a 2006 graduate of Fyffe High School and is a lifelong resident of the Rainsville community. He is the father of three daughters, Ellie, Livy, and Kloi.

Fleming touts a business-minded attitude for the successes he has had over the last 13 years.

Starting from the young age of 20, he has owned and operated two franchise restaurants, owned property in and around the Rainsville area, and managed more than 50 employees. Fleming currently owns and operates Fleming Construction Group and Seal-Tek Solutions.

“I’ve always been the type of person who looks for a solution to every problem,” said Fleming.

“Through my years of business experience, and as someone who considers

(Submitted Photo)

(Submitted Photo)

GERALDINE, Ala. — Scott Tarrant would like to announce that he will be a candidate for Geraldine Town Council. The election will be held on Tuesday, August 25.

“I have worked in law enforcement for over 25 years. I recently retired from the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office as an Investigator and have gone back to work part time to continue in investigations.

I have experience in working with the public and in communities all across DeKalb County. As a police officer I get the opportunity to help people, to listen to people, and try to offer a solution to whatever they are going through at that point in time. I will bring those

(Submitted Photo)

same qualities and work ethic with me to the council.

I will be a voice for the people and residents of Geraldine. I will work hard and do my part for the future of Geraldine and to see that Geraldine is taking steps forward and making progressive movements.

I humbly ask for your support, prayer, and vote on August 25 and in turn, I will do my part to represent you, the people of Geraldine.

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INSIDE THE STATEHOUSE It's Trump vs Biden in November. Conventions will be anticlimactic.

By Steve Flowers Political Columnist MONTGOMERY, Ala. — The presidential race is onward. It will be incumbent Republican Donald Trump vs. former Vice President and 36-year veteran Democrat, Delaware U.S. Senator Joe Biden in the November 3rd General Election.

Both men have clinched their parties’ nominations. Therefore, the Democratic convention, July 31-August 2, and the Republican convention set for August 25-28 will be anticlimactic.

It is doubtful that either convention will break any television rating records.

However, there will be one record shattered in this year’s presidential contest. Trump and Biden will be the two oldest presidential contenders in history. Biden is 78 and Trump is 74. Actually, Trump was the oldest person to ever be sworn in as president four years ago.

So if Biden wins he will really break the record at 78.6 years. By the way, the youngest president was John F. Kennedy, who was 43 when he was sworn in as president in January of

businessman.

By selecting Senator Kamala Harris, Biden chooses a person of non-white ethnicity.

African American women are the heart and soul of the Democratic Party and the most reliable Democratic voters.

Senator Harris would energize the base. Turnout is the key to any election.

Odds are that if Joe Biden is elected president in November, he will probably be a one-term president. At almost 80, it is doubtful that he would run again in 2024.

Therefore, his choice for his running mate and vice president would be favored to be elected president in four years and could become president before then.

There is a tried and true maxim in politics, more people vote against someone than for

someone. The Democrats’ plan of attack is for Biden to do nothing, say nothing and let Trump beat himself.

It will be an interesting and important choice for Biden as he or his advisors select his vice-presidential running mate. Again, turnout is the key. Therefore, do not count Donald Trump out until it is all over.

Republican voters who are older turn out to vote at a higher rate than Democratic voters who are younger. You can bet your bottom dollar that Trump will carry Alabama over Biden in November.

See you next week.

Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. Steve may be reached at: www.steve@ steveflowers.us.

6

FRIDAY — JULY 31, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCHT

DEATH NOTICES CROSSVILLE Micaela Andres Francisco-Andres - 68 of Albertville, passed away on Tuesday, July 21. Graveside services were held on Saturday, July 25 at Memory Hill Cemetery.

KERBY

Roy Pemberton 66 of Hiram, Ga., passed away on Wednesday, July 22.

Graveside services were held on Monday, July 27 at Friendship Cemetery.

Talmadge Fleming - 82 of Pisgah, passed away on Saturday, July 25. Graveside services were held on Thursday, July 30 at Pisgah Cemetery.

Kay Taylor Camp - 71 of Scottsboro, passed away on Tuesday, July 28.

Graveside services will be held on Sunday, August 2 at Green Haven Memorial Gardens.

WILSON Carol Anspach 67 of Fort Payne, passed away on Wednesday, July 22. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Threasa “Bunny�

Jo Tindle - 61 of Fort Payne, passed away on Saturday, July 25.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, July 30 at Wilson Funeral Home.

Alvin Boyd Higgins - 69 of Fort Payne, passed away on Sunday, July 26.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, July 31 at Wilson Funeral Home Chapel.

RAINSVILLE

Douglas T. Cook - 70 of Newnan, Ga., passed away on Tuesday, July 21, 2020, at his residence. Funeral services were held on Friday, July 24, 2020, at 1 p.m. at Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Keith Clay officiating. Rainsville Funeral Home, Inc. directing, rainsvillefuneralhome.com.

In 1983, he married the love of his life, Sharon Ard, and they spend thirty-four loving years together. He was an engineer for the State of Georgia Department of Transportation. After retiring, he loved spending time with his best friend, his wife. He was a nature lover and liked boating, fishing,

and spending time outdoors. He also loved wood carving and made and sold duck decoys. He was most happy when he was with his family and he was the most generous soul who enjoyed helping others when he saw the need.

He is survived by his sister Susan D. Burnsed (Aaron) of Newnan, Ga., and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Sharon Ard Cook; his father, Rudolph Descombe Cook Sr.; his mother, Tiny Maude “Peggy� Cook; his brother, Rudolph “Randy� Descombe Cook Jr.; and his nephew, Elliott Burnsed.

William A. “Buck�

Stone - 90, passed away on Monday, July 20. Funeral services were held on Friday, July 25 at Rainsville Funeral Home with interment at New Bethel Baptist Cemetery.

Ella Van Krause - 81 of Pace, Fla., passed away on Wednesday, July 22.

Graveside services were held on Sunday, July 26 at New Harmony Cemetery.

Melba Robinson 82 of Sylvania, passed away on Sunday, July 26. Funeral services were held on Tuesday, July 28 at Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel with burial in New Home Baptist Church Cemetery.

Marjory Richey

Beam - 81 of Geraldine, passed away on Tuesday, July 28.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, July 30 at Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel.

on Saturday, July 25.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, July 21 at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel with burial in New Hope Cemetery.

Coleman - 71 of Section, passed away on Thursday, July 23. A memorial service was held on Saturday, July 25 at The ARK Family Worship Center.

BURT

Lorene Heard Bass - 85 of Rosalie, passed away on Monday, July 27.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, July 23 at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel with burial in New Hope Cemetery.

Tim Cox - 79 of Henagar, passed away on Saturday, July 25.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, July 29 at Highpoint Church of God with burial in Beene Family Cemetery at Valley Head.

Emma Spillman - 86, passed away on Thursday, July 23.

Graveside services and burial were held on Saturday, July 25 at Fort Payne Memory Gardens.

Terry Pigg - 62 of Collinsville, passed away on Monday, July 27. Funeral services were held on Thursday, July 30 at Burt Chapel-Fort Payne with burial in Walker’s Chapel Cemetery.

CORNER STONE Geneva Cook Kerby - 87 of Fackler, passed away on Wednesday, July 22.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, July 25 at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel with burial in Stevenson City Cemetery.

James Robert Peters - 87 of Henagar, passed away on Thursday, July 23.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, July 25 at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel.

Charlotte Yvonne Crowe - 56 of Henagar, passed away on Thursday, July 23.

Graveside services were held on Sunday, July 26 at Mountain Home Cemetery.

Eddie Eugene Underwood Sr. - 72 of Henagar, passed away

W.T. WILSON Thomas H. Kircus - 65 of Glencoe, passed away on Tuesday, July 21.

Graveside services were held on Thursday, July 22 at Nazareth Cemetery (Warren’s Graveyard).

Bernice Marie Davis - 62 of Ft. Oglethorpe, Ga., passed away on Sunday, July 26.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, July 30 at W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with burial in Rainsville A Memorial Park.

Jacky V. Roden 78 of Crossville, passed away on Wednesday, July 22.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, July 25 at W.T. Wilson Funeral Home Chapel with burial in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery.

Rickey Dale Green - 61 of Fyffe, passed away on Sunday, July 26. Graveside services were held on Wednesday, July 29 at Green’s Chapel Cemetery.

Maria Teresa Flores - 68 of Fort Payne, passed away on Thursday, July 23.

Graveside services were held on Saturday, July 25 at Glenwood Cemetery.

Martha Gertrude Hubbard - 92 of Rainsville, passed away on Sunday, July 26.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, July 30 at W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with burial in Nazareth Cemetery.

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FRIDAY — JULY 31, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

POLITICS

SPORTS

Merrill Addresses the DCRW READY FROM PAGE 1

John Smith - FP Council candidate

Celeste Ragan - FP Council candidate

Scotty Combs - Rainsville City Council candidate (place 2)

Steven Fleming - Rainsville City Council candidate (place 1)

Republican candidates for the upcoming municipal elections had the opportunity to introduce themselves and tell about their election platform.

Fort Payne had two candidates that will be running for the Fort Payne City Council at-large, Celeste Ragan and John

Smith.

Rainsville was represented by incumbent Rainsville Councilmember Marshall Stiefel who will be running for Place 3.

Newcomers Scotty Combs (place 2) and Steven Fleming (place 1) also addressed the crowd.

Alabama Secretary of State John Merrill

Marshall Stiefel - incumbent Rainsville Councilman (running for place 3)

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

FORT PAYNE, Ala. — Alabama Secretary of State John Merrill was in town to visit the new DeKalb County Republican Headquarters, located at 3700 North Gault Ave. in

Fort Payne, and to speak to the DeKalb County Republican Women meeting on Monday, July 27.

Merrill addressed the concerns of COVID-19 and updated the continuing efforts to eliminate voter fraud.

At the meeting,

7

fan attendance �stated DeKalb County Superintendent, Dr. Jason Barnett.

There will be some rule modifications for 2020. • The team box will be extended on both sides of the field to the 10-yard line • Face masks are permissible • Time-outs will be extended to a maximum of two minutes • Intermission between periods will be extended to two minutes • Only one captain will be allowed at the coin toss • Individuals should maintain social distancing of 6 feet at all times when in the team box • Individuals should not share uniforms, towels or equipment • Footballs should be cleaned and sanitized throughout the contest • Officials may use an electronic whistle and facemask • All players should have their own beverage container • Handshakes will be suspended during the coin toss, pregame, and postgame Schools across DeKalb County will begin their football season on August 21.

DeKalb HOF Banquet Postponed

By Southern Torch Staff DeKALB COUNTY, Ala. — Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the DeKalb County Sports Hall of Fame (HOF) Banquet has been rescheduled. The 2020 class will be inducted on June 12, 2021. No inductees will be added to the current class.

"We regret having to make this delay, but we want the banquet to be an event that everybody feels safe in attending," the HOF said in a statement.

This year's class included eight individuals from DeKalb County: • Fort Payne: Butch Cassidy, Mike Shirey, Mike Holtzclaw, Michael Dryer • Valley Head: Bobby Jones • Collinsville: Donald Jones • Ider: Brent Tinker • Crossville: Mick Hedgepath In addition to honoring the inductees, the HOF will honor two high school stidents with $1,000 scholarships at the banquet.

For more information, please contact HOF President C.M. Sanford at (256) 996-0513.

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8

FRIDAY — JULY 31, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

GAMES

“DN SCNNVFG YRN PQCN GRSVRYV DG KRFY, KXN PQCN NQVW ZFRP NR KV.� — QCFFW IRNNVF CYJ NQV ZRKMVN RH HDFV, O.E. FRPMDYZ YOUR HINT: E = K 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.

Football Word Search

W E R K C A B R E T R A U Q U M T

T O U C H D O W N A W P H T R F A

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FRIDAY — JULY 31, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

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FRIDAY — JULY 31, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

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