The Southern Torch — Vol. 6, No. 32

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

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THE SOUTHERN TORCH / FRIDAY, AUGUST 7, 2020 / VOL. 6, NO. 32 / $1.00 THIS WEEK IN BUSINESS • State Alcohol Restrictions Take Effect • Vulcraft Donates to DeKalb Co. Schools

THIS WEEK IN POLITICS • DeKalb County Candidates Announce Campaigns for Munciipal Office

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THIS WEEK IN COMMUNITY • ADPH Reports 35K+ Coronavirus Recoveries • Rainsville Fire Receives Grant

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THIS WEEK IN SPORTS

FORT PAYNE GIVES BACK

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

Members of the Fort Payne City Board of Education accepted two checks for school supplies from the Fort Payne City Council at Tuesday's meeting. PICTURED (L to R): BOE Member Kathy Prater, Fort Payne City Schools Superintendent Jim Cunningham, BOE Member Sharon Jones, Councilwoman Lynn Brewer, Councilman Wade Hill, Council President Brian Baine, Councilman Johnny Eberhart, BOE member Carolyn Martin, and BOE President James Durham. (Marla Jones | Southern Torch)

FORT PAYNE, Ala. — (Full video at southerntorch.com) The Fort Payne City Council held their regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, August 4.

Fort Payne Mayor Larry Chesser, along with the Fort Payne City Council, presented a $200,000 check to Fort City School Superintendent Jim Cunningham. This check will provide schoolroom and student supplies for the upcoming school year.

>> FP, P3

Love that Body Found at Chicken from Local Piggly Wiggly Popeyes!

The body of a Rainsville resident was recovered on Tuesday night in the parking lot of the Collinsville Piggly Wiggly. (www.pigglywiggly.net)

(Submitted Photo)

By Marla Jones, Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

FORT PAYNE, Ala. — Citizens of Fort Payne and the surrounding areas are abuzz as a Popeyes sign was placed in what was formerly the Hardee’s restaurant, located on Glenn Blvd SW, today.

Popeyes was founded by Alvin C. Copeland and has been around since 1972. The Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen Chicken Sandwich became famous in 2019 and started a food war with their competition.

Mayor Larry Chesser and Council President Brian Baine could not confirm on record the deal between the chain restaurant and the City of Fort Payne.

Southern Torch will update as more information becomes available.

COLLINSVILLE, Ala. — According to Collinsville Police Chief Rex Leath, a body was discovered on Tuesday night in the lower part of the parking lot at Piggly Wiggly.

The body, which had been inside a parked vehicle with tinted windows since Sunday, was recovered and identified as

48-year-old Rainsville resident Jeffery Scott Oliver.

According to footage from Piggly Wiggly's security cameras, Oliver pulled up to the parking lot on Sunday, got out of the truck, was seen getting back in the vehicle, and then never left the property.

Leath stated that no foul play was suspected, but the cause of death is undetermined at this time

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pending further investigation.

Leath contacted the DeKalb County Sheriff's Office (DCSO) to aid in the investigation.

"I would like to thank the Sheriff's Office and the Collinsville Fire Department for their help in uncovering this tragic event," said Leath.

Southern Torch will continue to update this story as more information becomes available.

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Gone but Never Forgotten

(Submitted Photo)

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

COLLINSVILLE, Ala. — Mr. Jeremy Glenn Bell, 45 of Collinsville, passed away on Saturday, August 1, 2020. A graveside service was held on Wednesday, 10 a.m. at the Henagar Cemetery.

Bell was active in law enforcement for the past twenty years. He served on the Sylvania and Collinsville Police Force along with the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office during his career. “The passing of Jeremy Bell is so sad! I’ve known Jeremy for over 20 years, and he has always had a huge caring heart as long as I knew him. Just last week we talked about church and some old-time policing. One story, in particular, we always talked about, was when Jeremy worked for the Sylvania Police Department and I worked for the State Parks. One night we got into a pursuit together and chased a car for 45 minutes and the guy ran all the way to Scottsboro and actually pulled into a parking spot at the Jackson County Jail,� stated DeKalb County Sheriff, Nick Welden. “It was just one of the craziest, scariest and funniest pursuits I’ve ever been part of, and one I’ll definitely never forgot! Just like Jeremy, I will never forget him, and the times he has

>> BELL, P3

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FRIDAY — AUGUST 7, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

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

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Rosalie Welcomes Hidden Springs Arena

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com ROSALIE, Ala. — On Saturday, August 1, two local Rosalie residents opened the gates to their new arena.

Hidden Springs Arena, which is located off of Highway 71, is owned and operated by Stephanie Gilliam and Sherri Holder Reynolds.

It was their desire to open an event venue that would service Jackson County and surrounding areas.

On Saturday, the

(Submitted Photo)

Bassmasters Head to Lake Guntersville

Football Is In The Air

By B.A. Little Reporter beverlyannette@southerntorch.com GUNTERSVILLE, Ala. — Originally scheduled for Cayuga Lake in New York, The Bassmaster Elite Series Tournament will instead be held September 30 through October 3 at Lake Guntersville.

Daily launches and weigh-ins will take place at Goose Pond Colony Resort Marina in Scottsboro.

Mayor Robin Shelton said, “We are excited to host another Bassmaster Elite Series tournament event at Goose Pond Colony. I know the event will be as successful as last year’s event, and I am looking forward to working with them again.”

While it has been challenging to reschedule events, B.A.S.S. officials intend to complete a full schedule of tournaments.

Bruce Akin, CEO of B.A.S.S., offered this statement, “We are thankful to our friends at the City of Scottsboro for partnering with us to offer anglers another opportunity to fish on one of our country’s best lakes while showcasing the area’s beauty for our audience.”

Hidden Springs Arena hosted the National Barrel Horse Association event in front of a large crowd.

"We want to thank everyone who came out to make our first event at Hidden Springs Arena a success!" said co-owner Stephanie Gilliam. "We would like to particularly thank those who made our first night successful: the Rosalie Volunteer Fire Department, Brent Worley, Stephanie Johns, C.E. Holder, Keith, Courtney and Keeley Johns, Justin Kraemer, Emily White, Scott Jones, Tyler Jeffery,

NSM Alum meets with President Trump as TVA Chairman is fired

By Dylan Smith JB Managing Editor dylan@southerntorch.com

Teams from across Jackson County gathered at Media Days on Friday, July 31 at the DeKalb County Schools Coliseum to speak on their goals for the upcoming season. (Photos by B.A. Little)

Terry & Laine Kenimer, Brett Roden, my parents, Larry Porter, Logan Williams, Matt, Bubba Lacey, Duron & Sandy Harris, Ronnie Marion, Terri White, Neil Clemons, Whitney Downs, Dee Dee Kirklen, Phillip Reed and everyone else involved."

The family facility also has a concession stand and will be expanding in the near future.

The next big event at Hidden Springs Arena will be held on October 3, where they will host the National Barrel Horse Association once again.

JACKSON COUNTY, Ala. — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) employees were invited to the White House for a round table discussion in the Cabinet Room regarding the agency’s move to outsource their jobs.

Among those in attendance was North Sand Mountain High School alum Stacy Whetzell, a member of the 1969 graduating class.

Whetzell had been notified by his TVA superiors that his job was being outsourced to a foreign company. He was also told that he would be expected to train the foreigners to whom he was losing his job.

During the White House meeting President Trump notified present media that he had terminated TVA Chairman Skip Thompson.

The firing comes amid public backlash over CEO Jeffrey Lyash’s exorbitant salary and the agency’s recent decision to outsource 220 jobs overseas for cheaper foreign labor.

In June, Jackson Blaze published an opinion editorial blasting TVA and it’s operations that have had a negative economic impact on Jackson County.

In addition to firing the chairman of the board, President Trump told reporters that he had also fired Board Member Richard Howarth.

The president is pushing the TVA Board of Directors to remove CEO Jeffery Lyash, citing his $8M salary. Lyash is currently the highest paid federal employee. He also

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declared that the agency’s next leader should earn no more than $500K annually.

In announcing the overhaul, the president put federally appointed boards on notice.

“If you betray American workers, then you will hear two simple words: ‘You’re fired,'” declared President Trump.

The firing announcement came alongside an executive order aimed at limiting federal agencies from hiring foreign contractors, forcing agencies to prioritize Americans in the hiring process.

During the meeting, Whetzell was recognized to speak by President Trump.

“First, I want to thank you for being the Great American president you are and for caring about and looking out for the great American citizens,” said Whetzell, who has worked for TVA since 1975.

“It was shocking and devastating to be notified on July 23rd that IT leadership had decided that our team, and a total of 40 workers, would be terminated.”

Whetzell made the case against the H-1B program, which corporations have used to hire foreigners to work in the U.S in place of domestic labor.

“We are required to train these replacements as President Trump said,

s w t w

apparently, we’re good enough to train but not retain. Using H-1B workers to replace capable and D willing American citizens isG turning our American W communities upside down.”

He went on to the C thank the president for “putting Americans first” and “working to stop this tragedy.”

C After Whetzell spoke, i President Trump stated p that he had been notified that TVA CEO Jeffery Lyash M called to inform the White House that he was willing C to to reverse course on the a decision to outsource.

In a bit of light heartedness in the midst of a serious matter, President Trump indicated that Whetzell’s impassioned statement lead TVA’s chief executive to backtrack.

“It must have been Stacy, I think Stacy did a much better job than me,” said the president.

Stacy Whetzell, a working class man born and raised in Jackson County, had the opportunity to make his voice heard and meet with the President of the United States.

Whetzell displayed the truest form of citizenship by speaking his mind and simply fighting for what is right. The efforts of Whetzell and his fellow coworkers resulted in action at the highest levels of government.

FRIDAY — AUGUST 7, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

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COMMUNITY

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SIZZLIN’ SUMMER FUN!

Camden Jose is having some Sizzlin' Summer Fun in his new ride that he got for his first birthday!

Camden is the son of Rainsville police officer Alex Jose and his wife, Paige.

Submit your photos to marla@southerntorch.com to be featured having your own Sizzlin' Summer Fun!

(Amber White Photography)

Rainsville Fire FP FROM PAGE 1 Receives Grant

By Marla Jones, Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com RAINSVILLE, Ala. — (Full video at southerntorch.com) The Rainsville City Council held their regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, August 3.

The Rainsville Fire Department received a $122,950 grant with a 10% match to purchase (18) new air packs.

The air packs that are presently being used by the department, are eight years old and were up for replacement.

The Fire Department also reported that the new storage building for the Fire Science Program had been delivered. At this time, there are (17) students enrolled for the upcoming school year in the Fire Science Program.

City Engineer Sam Phillips updated the council on the amendment to the City map to include Autumn Creek Subdivision and the Lewis property.

The Council passed Resolution 08-03-2020 (A) stating that Rodger Lingerfelt is reelected as Mayor without opposition. Resolution 08-03-2020 (b) stated that Brandon Freeman is reelected to Council Place 4 without opposition.

The following promotions within the Police Department were made: Jason Johnson-Sargent, Dustin Garrison-Sargent, Luke Yarbrough-Sargent, and Sgt. Josh Wilson-Detective.

In other business: • The City will install one street light and two poles on Chambers in the Highlands Subdivision for $600. • Add No Outlet sign to Ivy Creek Subdivision • Add Curve sign- Carlyle Road Councilmember Brandon Freeman updated the Council on the Rainsville Swimming Pool. While the pool is closed for everyday swimming, it remains open for parties.

Freeman also stated that the Rainsville Farmers Market is open at 4 p.m. each Thursday.

The next regular meeting of the Rainsville City Council will be held on August 17. The work session begins at 4:15 p.m. with regular meetings starting at 5 p.m.

The Council passed Resolution 2020-34 authorizing the appointment of election officials for the upcoming city election.

The Council also passed Resolution 2020-35 which declared Brain Baine elected to the Office of Mayor of Fort Payne, without opposition.

After acknowledgement of the Planning Commission, the Council accepted the subdivision owned by Coleen Greenwood, located on Airport Road just south of GH Metal Solutions. The parcel contains 10 acres and is currently zoned M-1.

The property will be subdivided into five (5) two-acre lots for commercial development.

The Council approved an alcohol license application by Miles Smith of Western Sizzlin. This application is for on-premise beer and wine sales. The alcohol committee previously approved the application.

The Council tabled until the next meeting Ordinance 2020-06 that would establish no parking restrictions on Echols Drive West. Echols Drive is the street adjacent to Plasman Corporation, located on 403 Airport Road West in Fort Payne.

In a separate work session, the Fort Payne City Council discussed the process for absentee voting. They also discussed polling locations and how they will be set up to maintain proper distancing with worker and voter protections.

The next meeting of the Fort Payne City Council will be held on Tuesday, August 18.

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

ADPH Reports 35K+ COVID-19 Recoveries

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BELL

FROM PAGE 1 been there for anyone that needed him. He will truly be missed but I will cherish the blessing the Lord allowed me to to get to know him,� concluded Sheriff Welden.

Many members of the community have expressed their sympathies on Facebook, Dr. Jason Barnett posted the following, “Jeremy served as a School Resource Officer at the DeKalb County Technology Center during the 2019 and 2020 school year. Jeremy cared greatly for our students and will be sorely missed.

Our prayers are with his many friends and his family.�

On a personal note, I have been friends with Jeremy for many years. He always had a smile on his face and you knew that he was there if you needed him. My life was richly blessed by knowing him.

We lost a great man but heaven gained a wonderful angel.

Bell is survived by his mother, Kaye Upton; father, Glenn Bell; brothers, Kevin (Angela) Akins and Caleb (Lila) Leath; nephews, Taylor Leath, Mikey Hudgins, and Nathan Hudgins; aunts, Tracey (Todd) Tietgens and Ann (Matt) Hechler; and a host of Cousins and friends.

By Zach Hester, Reporter • zach@southerntorch.com ALABAMA — More than one-third of Alabama’s coronavirus recoveries are reported to be recovered, according to numbers from the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH).

According to the weekly update from ADPH, 35,401 Alabamians are labeled under “presumed recoveries.� To be considered a “presumed recovery,� a confirmed case has to have more than 14 days since a positive test without hospitalization or more than 32 days since a positive test with hospitalization or unknown hospitalization status.

New cases of the novel coronavirus have exploded across the State of Alabama in July, but seem to be leveling off or plateauing as August begins.

Of the state’s 91,776 confirmed cases, 20,155 have been added in the last fourteen days alone. The ADPH reports over 1,600 deaths from the virus as well. However, on Wednesday, the State of Alabama recorded only 886 new cases of the virus, just the second time the state has recorded under 1,000 new daily cases since early July.

According to an article by Vox, Alabama has been labeled as a new “hotspot� for community transmission of the coronavirus, and state officials have taken notice. Two weeks ago, Gov. Kay Ivey (R-Ala.) announced a statewide mask mandate and later extended the order through the month of August.

In DeKalb County, 1,721 cases have been confirmed with another 40 probable cases awaiting official results, with 325 of those added in the last 14 days. 13 deaths have occurred in DeKalb County.

For more information, please visit the Alabama Department of Public Health COVID-19 data board at alabamapublichealth.gov. All numbers stated in this article were recorded at press time on Wednesday, August 5, 2020.

The Whiton School reunion, traditionally held on the second Saturday in August, has been canceled this year. Organizers hope to bring the event back in 2021.

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

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LEGALS

LEGALS

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA

IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF JACKSON COUNTY, ALABAMA

Case No.: 2020-2041 IN THE MATTER OF THE ADOPTION PETITION OF HAROLD THOMPSON and CONNIE THOMPSON

Case No.: JU-2014-18.02

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 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.

Vulcraft Donates to DeKalb Schools

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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

(taphandles.com)

By Zach Hester, Reporter • zach@southerntorch.com

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

To be published: July 31, August 7, August 14, August 21 Joseph K. McNew, D.V.M • Linda Galbraith, D.V.M. • Jessica Jones, D.V.M.

Pictured (L to R): Parental Engagement Specialist Tara Kirby, Vulcraft HR Supervisor Payton Lewis, and Vulcraft Controller Stefanie Reeves (Submitted Photo)

By Marla Jones, Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com DEKALB COUNTY, Ala. — Students in the DeKalb County School System will be returning to classes next week with plenty of supplies for keeping themselves clean and healthy during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Vulcraft recently donated 15 gallons of hand sanitizer, 1500 cloth masks, and 300 disposable masks to DeKalb County Schools to help prevent the spread of coronavirus.

ALABAMA — In an effort to curb the spread of coronavirus, the Alabama Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) Board has implemented measures to stop alcohol sales after 11 p.m. in the State of Alabama. The rule went into effect on Saturday, August 1.

The Emergency Rule was approved by the Board last week, and states that “all ABC licenses shall cease the service or sale of alcoholic beverages for on-premise consumption from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. the following day.� In addition, drinking alcohol at a bar or restaurant must end by 11:30 p.m.

Violation of the rule could lead to an establishment having their alcohol license suspended. “The primary mission of the Alabama ABC Board is to protect the health, safety, and welfare of our citizens and we take this mission very seriously,� said ABC Board Chairman Col. Alan Spencer. “We are very sensitive to the economic impact this rule will have. This is a gutwrenching decision we are making...but it is also gut-wrenching to see the number of Alabamians who are suffering from this disease.�

The rule is expected to remain in effect for at least 120 days.

FRIDAY — AUGUST 7, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

POLITICS Satterfield to Run for Smith Announces Geraldine Council Run for FP Council Submitted by Joey SatterSubmitted by John Smith for Fort Payne City Council

field for Geraldine Council GERALDINE, Ala. — Joseph "Joey" Satterfield would like to announce his campaign for Geraldine Town Council.

For those of you that do not know me, I am a Geraldine graduate, Class of 1997. I am born and raised in Geraldine and I have lived here most of my adult life. I currently am employed by Universal Industrial Supply and where I am the Alabama Rep. for the company. I am married to my beautiful wife Trina and we have 5 awesome kids Hallie, Chloe, Carlie, Kayson, and JoJo. What are my reasons for running for Town Council.? Simple. I love Geraldine and the citizens of Geraldine. I plan to work with the Mayor and the other Council members to make decisions that are in the best interests of the town and the people of Geraldine. I have watched Geraldine grow and

progress over the years and I want to continue the growth of Geraldine.

I would like to see more small businesses come to Geraldine and see our town grow. Progress is a big part of my campaign slogan. I feel we can do great things in Geraldine.

We must continue to strive to bring more business to Geraldine. Geraldine is a great place to live and raise a family. And as your councilman, I will do everything I can to make Geraldine Great!

On August 25, 2020, please vote for progress, vote to make the town of Geraldine great! Vote Joseph “Joey” Satterfield Town Council. Thank You and God Bless!

Ham to Run for FP Council

Submitted by Randall Ham for Fort Payne City Council

FORT PAYNE, Ala. — After a long period of prayer and consideration I am happy to announce my decision to enter the upcoming election for the Fort Payne City Council.

I don’t enter with an agenda or plan for drastic change but simply a strong desire to serve the citizens of Fort Payne to the best of my ability. My goal is to build upon what we have already been blessed with and what has already been accomplished by previous administrations. I was honored to serve as a council member from 2012 to 2016 and during that time we accomplished many things that helped our city thrive and prepared us to remain financially sound even in difficult times. I believe there is still work to be done in those areas.

Fiscal responsibility and long term stability will be a major focus, balanced with responsible spending and continued attention placed on our retail and industrial recruitment. We must also find a path to ensure we retain our good city employees and that they are prospering according to their efforts.

During my previous term, I also completed the Alabama League of Municipalities requirements and became a Certified Municipal Official which provides training far beyond the minimum training requirements for a council member. It allowed me to bring valuable information and ideas back to the council for consideration.

I was raised in Fort Payne and have resided here since returning in December 1987 after serving our nation in the 0United States Marine Corps. I owned and

operated a local business for almost 25 years and have worked in various types of operations since then. I am currently the Director of Sales and Marketing for Artemis Shielding which is headquartered in Fort Payne. I believe my 30+ years of business experience working with the public and my willingness to listen to the thoughts and ideas of others will be a tremendous asset to the future of our city.

This is an important election and we shouldn’t take our choice in who we vote for lightly. Our city election shouldn’t simply be a popularity contest. It’s too important for that. We should consider which five citizens are most qualified to serve, to listen, to make difficult decisions, and to always make the best interest of Fort Payne as a whole the top priority.

This will be a very different campaign due to COVID-19 and I will miss going door to door meeting and speaking with you in person. I would welcome a phone conversation or safely conducted in-person meeting with those who would like to get to know me better or those who may have questions for me.

I can be reached at 256-997-3182 or by email at randallham1@gmail. com. I can also be found on social media.

I look forward to hearing from the citizens of Fort Payne and humbly ask for your vote and support for City Council on August 25th.

FORT PAYNE, Ala. — I’m John Smith, and I’m very excited to announce that I am a candidate for Fort Payne City Council. As a lifelong resident of Fort Payne and a graduate of FPHS, I feel the need to give back to a community that has given me so much. I humbly ask for your prayers and support along this journey.

My platform is clear and simple: a fiscally responsible and balanced budget, enhanced basic city services, to take advantage of the area's outdoor beauty and recreational activities, and serve as a liaison and voice for the citizens of Fort Payne. City government is a business, a big business. I pledge to fight waste and duplication within the various departments and never cross into the “tax and spend” mentality. The government works for us, not the other way around.

The lessons I learned from my business background and as past Chairman of the Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce will serve me well, we can’t spend what we don’t have.

I have been a Paramedic and involved in health care/ EMS for forty years, and have served on numerous state and local Emergency Medical Service boards. I have a vision of enhanced emergency care and a response provided by our first-class fire department and to keep our dispatch program on the cutting edge of technology. Currently, I serve as a Medical Officer at the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office, which has given me a keen insight into law enforcement and corrections. Our Officers deserve nothing but our

Kirby Announces Campaign for Henagar Council Submitted by Tara Kirby for Henagar City Council

hard-core support. Watch the national news, and you’ll quickly discover how blessed we are to have the caliber of men and women wearing blue. My support for the FP Police and Fire Departments will be unwavering.

We must strive to retain our current employees and make our wage and benefit package one that draws quality people into the workforce. All of our Tier 2 employees should be moved into the Tier 1 category immediately. Retirement benefits are a critical piece of our compensation package. The same goes for our teachers, we cannot allow other systems to lure our staff away. As a staunch supporter of the Fort Payne School System, I pledge to provide all of the help possible that is available from the City. I served as PTO Chairman at several of the schools when my kids were enrolled, and I strongly advocate parental involvement. I served as the team medic for FP Athletics for years, and I will continue to back our students in all areas of extracurricular activities.

In summary, allow me to thank you for the kind reception and support I have received after my recent declaration as a candidate. I look forward to providing you with a strong voice in our City government. Please get involved in City activities, and feel free to contact me with any of your concerns.

Davis to Run for Henagar Council Submitted by Angie Davis for Henagar City Council HENAGAR, Ala. — Angie Davis would like to announce her campaign for Henagar City Council, Place 4.

Angie is currently the bookkeeper at Russells Tractor Parts in Scottsboro, Ala. She attended Henagar Junior High School and graduated from Sylvania High School. After graduating from high school, she earned a degree in accounting.

She was appointed in 2017 to the Henagar Library board where she has served as the board chairperson since being appointed. Also in 2017 she was appointed to the Henagar Park board and has enjoyed working to help achieve improvements to both the library and the park. The work that she has done in the Henagar community since 2017 has led her to want to do more.

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“I have lived in the Henagar community all my life and I have tremendous love and appreciation for the people here. I see a need for a strong city council that is ready and capable of doing the work needed to ensure that the Henagar community continues to grow and prosper in the future," said Davis. "I would greatly appreciate the support of the people in the Henagar community so that I can help to fill the council position and be that hardworking council member that Henagar needs at this time.”

Henagar municipal elections will be held on Tuesday, August 25, 2020.

HENAGAR, Ala. — Tara Kirby would like to announce her campaign for Henagar City Council, place 3.

I am a lifelong resident of Dekalb County and I have lived in Henagar, with my husband, Heath, for 14 years.

We have 3 sons, Luke, Cooper, and Jase. My professional background has prepared me for serving the citizens of Henagar. I have been in education for 20 years. I taught 18 years at Valley Head School and was blessed to start the 2019 school year at Henagar Junior High as a 6th-8th grade English Language Arts teacher. Our son, Jase, will be in second grade this year at HJH. Go Wildcats! I am now the Parental Involvement Specialist for Dekalb County Schools where I am blessed to work with schools, parents, and the communities of DeKalb County.

I love the town of Henagar. I serve on the Henagar Town Library Board where I recently wrote and received a grant in the amount of $10,000. The money will be used to improve literacy for the families of Henagar. In addition to that grant, I also wrote and received a grant in

the amount of $10,000 for Henagar Junior High School.

The money will be used for classroom gardens and a rock wall for the physical education department. I now wish to continue my dedication to the town in an expanded capacity.

Henagar is thriving and I look forward to growth in the years ahead. I am running because I want to serve my neighbors and work hard on their behalf. With that said, there is always room for improvement, and I believe the best way we can improve our town’s government is by working to get more residents involved in issues that they deem important. My greatest strengths are a strong work ethic and my ability to communicate with people on a personal level. I will use my strengths to continue to work to serve the community and citizens of Henagar. I humbly appreciate your support and vote on August 25th.

Hiett Announces Run for Geraldine Council Submitted by Sherrie Hiett for Geraldine Town Council GERALDINE, Ala. — Sherrie Hiett would like to announce her candidacy for Geraldine's Town Council.

"Hey, everybody! It's me ... Sherrie Hiett! Proud graduate of Geraldine's class of 1994!"

Sherrie is the Executive Director for Family Services of North Alabama, which works to serve victims/survivors of sexual assault, youth who are contemplating suicide, parents who have lost custody of their children, victims/survivors of human trafficking, and students who are being potentially groomed by predators online. FSNA works to serve the underserved and to ensure everyone knows about and receives the services they so desperately need and deserve.

"I have experience in working for and with those who are in great need of help, as well as writing grants, which would be beneficial in bringing more resources to Geraldine. In my two years as Executive Director, I have brought in close to a million dollars to the agency and I intend to do the same for Geraldine.

Geraldine is extremely

close to my heart, like me, my parents and all three siblings graduated from Geraldine High School. I grew up here, played every sport possible, attended every event growing up, and practically lived at Geraldine First United Methodist Church, where my mother still leads the music. I've lived as far away as New York and Mobile and as close as Boaz, but there's just no place like home. Working with and for the people.

Bringing unity where there is division. Listening to those who feel they've never been heard. Growing and building while leaving no one behind. This is what I do in my personal life, what I do in my job, and what I intend to do for the Town of Geraldine.

Please consider me on August 25th as you vote for those to represent Geraldine. It would be an absolute honor to serve the place I love and call 'Home.'"

Use Paracide shampoo on cats and dogs to treat fleas and ticks. Relieve secondary dermatitis. Hometown Feed & Seed 657-2020. (www.fleabeacon.com)

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FRIDAY — AUGUST 7, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCHT

DEATH NOTICES KERBY Marvin Lamarr Gregory - 64 of Pisgah, passed away on Thursday, July 30. Funeral services were held on Wednesday, August 5 at the funeral home.

- 51 of Fort Payne, passed away on Thursday, July 30.

Funeral services were held on Sunday, August 2 at the funeral home with burial in Henagar Memorial Park.

Davistown Baptist Church with burial in the adjoining cemetery.

WILSON

Willia Graben Day - 85 of Rosalie, passed away on Thursday, July 30. A private family service will be held.

Scottie Jay Hammonds - 60 of Fyffe, passed away on Thursday, July 30.

Graveside services were held on Sunday, August 2 at Highway Church of God Cemetery.

Earlon A. Harville - 79 of Fort Payne, passed away on Tuesday, July 29.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, August 1 at the funeral home with burial in Mt. Hermon Cemetery.

Doyle Gene Fairbanks - 68 of Pisgah, passed away on Sunday, August 2.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, August 5 at the funeral home with burial in New Cannon Cemetery.

Helen Irene Traylor - 83 of Rainsville, passed away on Friday, July 31. Funeral services were held on Monday, August 3 at Rainsville FBC with burial in Mt. View Memory Gardens.

Linda Rae Wendorf 72 of Fort Payne, passed away on Saturday, August 1. A celebration of life service will be held at a later date.

Christine Jernigan Smith - 75 of Henagar, passed away on Monday, August 3. Funeral services were held on Wednesday, August 5 at the funeral home with burial in New Home Cemetery.

James Edwin Allen - 87 of Crossville, passed away on Friday, July 31.

Funeral services were held on Monday, August 3 at Liberty Baptist Church with burial in the adjoining cemetery.

W.T. WILSON

Jeremy Ladon Nelson - 42 of Fort Payne, passed away on Saturday, August 1. Funeral services were held on Tuesday, August 4 at the funeral home.

Sonya Gail Reynolds - 56 of Fort Payne, passed away on Saturday, August 1. Funeral services were held on Tuesday, August 4 at the funeral home.

CORNER STONE Hazel Louise Riggs 76 of Ider, passed away on Thursday, July 30.

Graveside services were held on Friday, July 31 at New Home Cemetery.

James Edward Jenkins

Frank D. Gilbert - 87 of Fyffe, passed away on Thursday, July 30.

Graveside services were held on Sunday, August 2 at Green’s Chapel Cemetery.

Donna Lynn Summerford Marsh - 50 of Section, passed away on Thursday, July 30. Funeral services were held on Monday, August 3 at

Darrell Gene Davis - 77 of Grant, passed away on Monday, August 3. A visitation was held on Wednesday, August 5 at the funeral home with cremation to follow.

RAINSVILLE Francis Elizabeth Davis - 68 of Section, passed away on Wednesday, July 29.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, August 1 at the funeral home with

burial in Green’s Chapel Cemetery.

Aaron Andrews - 63 of Rainsville, passed away on Friday, July 31 at his residence. Funeral services were held on Monday, August 3 at 2 p.m. at Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel. Burial followed in Old Sardis Holiness Church Cemetery with Rainsville Funeral Home, Inc. directing, www. rainsvillefuneralhome. com.

Visitation was held on Sunday, August 2 from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Monday, August 3 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

He is survived by his wife of 37 years: Martha Benefield Andrews of Rainsville; son, John Tyler Andrews and wife Heather of Henagar; daughters, Julie Andrews Allen and husband Landon of Section, Laura Beth Chapman and husband Austin of Henagar; brother, Gary Andrews and wife Kim of Rainsville; sisters, Janice Trotman and husband Stanley of Rainsville; Carol King and husband David of Rainsville; and grandchildren, Asher, Abram, and Anna.

He was preceded in death by his son, Christopher Aaron Andrews; parents, Ronald and Dorothy Andrews; sister, Judy Pendergrass; and brother-in-law, Clydell Pendergrass.

Juliette Westbrook Burleson - 73 of Rainsville, passed away on Wednesday, July 29.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, August 1 at the funeral home.

Gary Hicks - 55 of High Point, passed away on Wednesday, July 29.

Funeral services were held on Friday, July 31 at the funeral home.

Darren Williams - 51 of Rainsville, passed away on Monday, August 3 at Rainbow Omega. Funeral services were held on Wednesday, August 5 at 1

p.m. at Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel. Burial followed in Mountain View Memory Gardens with Rainsville Funeral Home, Inc. directing, www. rainsvillefuneralhome. com.

Visitation was held on Tuesday, August 4 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Wednesday, August 5 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

He is survived by his parents, Wayne and Peggy Williams of Rainsville; brother, Greg Williams and wife Andrea of Rainsville; sister, Haley Martin and husband David of Rainsville; six nieces and nephews, Reagan, Abby, Sarah, Jayse, John David, and Grant; a host of aunts, uncles, and cousins; grandfather, Max Burke.

He is preceded in death by his grandparents Elton Williams, Beulah Williams, and Floelle Burke.

Rose Marie Henley 85 of Collinsville, passed away on Sunday, August 2.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

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SPORTS

COMING SOON: The 2020 Football Season!

By Marla Jones Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

DeKALB COUNTY, Ala. — On Friday, July 31, teams from across DeKalb and Jackson Counties gathered for "Media Days" at the DeKalb County Schools Coliseum (DCSC) to discuss the upcoming 2020 football season.

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