The Southern Torch — Vol. 6, No. 34

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

WWW.BOBBYLEDBETTER.COM • 256.844.2210

THE SOUTHERN TORCH / FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2020 / VOL. 6, NO. 34 / $1.00 THIS WEEK IN BUSINESS

• See Who's Featured in Our Business Spotlight! • Read our Full List of Public Notices

THIS WEEK IN POLITICS

• Inside The Statehouse with Steve Flowers • Fyffe Mayor Announces Re-Election Bid

LIKE

FOLLOW

THIS WEEK IN SPORTS

• And So It Begins...Meet Our 2020 Sports Team Who Will Keep You Posted on All Things Football!

TWEET

THIS WEEK IN JACKSON CO. • Jackson County GOP Opens New HQ • 27th Annual Industry Appreciation Day

ELECTION HEATS UP IN FORT PAYNE

Jimmy Ballinger

Lynn Brewer (incumbent)

Johnny Eberhart (incumbent)

Randall Ham

Wade Hill (incumbent)

Roger E. Ingle

Kerry Jones

Charlene Magbie

Ken Mayo

Celeste Ragan

Diego Reynoso

Angie Shugart

John Smith

Phillip Smith

By Zach Hester, Reporter • zach@southerntorch.com

FORT PAYNE, Ala. — Municipal elections are heating up in the City of Fort Payne as election day draws closer.

Incumbent City Council President Brian Baine is unopposed in the mayoral race and therefore, will not appear on Tuesday’s ballot.

A total of 18 candidates qualified to run for Fort

Rainsville Hires New Revenue Officers

Leslie Vaughn

Walter Watson

Payne City Council. In the first round of voting, residents may select upwards of five (5) candidates for the race. Unless one candidate reaches 50 percent in the first round, a runoff will be held between the top 10 candidates on Tuesday, October 6.

The following candidates qualified to run for city council: Jimmy Ballinger, Lynn Brewer (incumbent), Johnny Eberhart (incumbent), Randall Ham, Wade Hill (incumbent), Roger Ingle, Kerry Jones, Jeff Koch (not

Neal Wooten

pictured), Charlene Magbie, Ken Mayo, Celeste Ragan, Diego Reynoso, Angie Shugart, John Smith, Phillip Smith, Leslie Vaughn, Walter Watson, and Neal Wooten.

The City of Fort Payne, along with the rest of DeKalb County’s municipalities, will hold citywide elections on Tuesday, August 25.

For full election night coverage, please tune in to Southern Torch on Facebook on Tuesday night as we relay results across DeKalb County in real time.

DeKalb Gives Back

Barnett Updates on COVID-19

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

On Monday, Rainsville hired Sandy Little and Kennedi Traylor as code enforcement/revenue officers. (Marla Jones | Southern Torch)

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

August 17.

The Council voted to hire Sandy Little and Kennedi Traylor as Code Enforcement/Revenue Officers at a rate of $15 per hour, effective August 19.

> HIRE, P10

On Tuesday, the DeKalb County Commission, along with the DeKalb County Emergency Management Agency, donated 16,000 masks for the Fort Payne City and DeKalb County school systems. The masks will be used by both students and faculty. PICTURED (L to R): DeKalb County Commission President Ricky Harcrow, Fort Payne Superintendent Jim Cunningham, DeKalb County Superintendent Dr. Jason Barnett, DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden, and DeKalb County Administrator Matt Sharp. (Marla Jones | Southern Torch)

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DeKALB COUNTY, Ala. — After a week of classes for DeKalb County Schools, Superintendent Dr. Jason Barnett updated Southern Torch with the following statement on how schools are handling the COVID-19 pandemic.

"I want to applaud our local students, parents, and community members for being great partners in prevention methods.

Students are excited to

> BOE, P10

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 — AUGUST 21, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

RAINSVILLE CITY COUNCIL, PLACE 2

“TIME FOR A CHANGE”

FRIDAY — AUGUST 21, 2020

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@JACKSONBLAZEAL

City of Scottsboro to 27th Annual Industry Appreciation Day Hold First Responder Car Cruise

By B.A. Little Reporter beverlyannette@southerntorch.com SCOTTSBORO, Ala. — The City of Scottsboro is proud to support the “Cruise for the Blue” Car Cruise Saturday, August 29, 2020. The Jackson County Sheriff’s Department will be grand marshal for this cruise.

This car cruise will start at 10:30 am (line up at 10:15) at Big Daddy’s Outdoors in Bridgeport (52680 US-72, Bridgeport, AL 35740), and will finish at Paint Rock; motorists then will have the option to drive back through the route all the way to Big Daddy’s in Bridgeport.

Along the route, there will be staging areas where motorists can jump in and cruise at Stevenson’s Family Dollar parking lot (104 Adams Street, Stevenson, AL 35772) and at Calvary Baptist Church in Scottsboro (305 County Park Road, Scottsboro, AL 35768). Since the total length of the cruise is over 50 miles, these staging

areas have been provided to allow motorists to fall in line if they don’t want to drive the whole 50 miles.

This event is sponsored by the Jackson County Republicans; “We are proud to sponsor this cruise completely dedicated to the honor of our brave men and women who are on the front lines protecting us all. We love them and appreciate all they do to keep us safe and healthy.” said Allen Keller, Executive Committee Chairman.

“First Responders are a vital component of our community,” said Mayor Robin Shelton, “and we should be acknowledging everything they do for our communities, especially during times like these.

When I heard this event was being organized, I thought it was a great tribute to the people who risk their lives every day so we are safe.”

For more details or questions about the car cruise please contact the event organizer, Dawn Pettengill, at dawnpettengill@gmail.com.

Goose Pond Colony Lake Course will host the 27th Annual Industry Appreciation Day on October 15. (Submitted Photo)

By B.A. Little Reporter beverlyannette@southerntorch.com SCOTTSBORO, Ala. — Registration is now underway for the 27th Annual Industry Appreciation Day, including a golf tournament and lunch, to be held at Goose Pond Colony Lake Course on Thursday, October 15th at 12:00 noon.

Co-sponsored by the Jackson County Economic Development Authority and the Mountain Lakes Chamber of Commerce, the activities offer an opportunity for representatives of industry and businesses throughout the county to join with elected officials and community leaders for an afternoon of fun, fellowship and good-natured competition.

The golf tournament will be a best ball scramble format between four-man teams.

Industry teams will be competing against consistently strong contenders from Maples, WestRock, PHP and others.

To be included in the Industry Division, all four team players must be employed by the industry they are representing.

An open division winner will be named as well. Team prizes will be awarded in each division as well as overall individual prizes including closest to the pin, longest drive, and longest putt.

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

Jackson Co. GOP Announces HQ Grand Opening

By Dylan Smith, JB Managing Editor dylan@southerntorch.com

SOUTHERN TORCH • 98-3 WILD COUNTRY • 101-7 THE TORCH Staff:

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Rick Roden, CEO/ President of The Mountain Lake Chamber of Commerce told the Jackson Blaze, “We are excited to be partnering with the Jackson County Economic Development Authority to sponsor our 27th Annual Industry Appreciation Day. Jackson County industries employ thousands of citizens in our community.

We use this day to bring attention to the many wonderful industries we have in Jackson County. So put a team together and come out and enjoy some good-natured competition as we thank our industries for what they do for Jackson County.”

Sponsorship opportunities are still available to get your name out in front of our golfers.

Please Shelia Shepard, (256) 574-1331, shepard@ scottsboro.org or Rick Roden, (256) 259-5500, roden@scottsboro.org Please call before 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 13th at 256-574-1331 or 256 259-5500 for further details and reservations.

SCOTTSBORO, Ala. – The Jackson County Republican Party Executive Committee has announced the unveiling of its new headquarters. The grand opening will take place Thursday, August 20th at 6:00 P.M. at 208 E. Laurel Street in Scottsboro.

In announcing the grand opening, Chairman Allen Keller noted the enthusiasm among the Republican base.

“It’s going to be a great election year,” said Keller.

“We will send Tommy Tuberville to the U.S. Senate and Donald J. Trump back to the White House.”

Keller also touted local candidates who clinched their party’s nomination to elected office, all of whom are unchallenged due to having no democrat opposition.

“We also have an excellent slate of local candidates who I know will serve well in their respected positions. We welcome all to come to our grand opening!”

Congressman Mo Brooks (R-Ala.) will headline the grand opening as the speaker. Alabama House Majority Leader and recently appointed Co-Chair of the Tommy Tuberville campaign Nathaniel Ledbetter (R-Rainsville) will speak on behalf of the U.S. Senate candidate.

The Party HQ hours of operation will be Thursday and Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

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LEGALS IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No.: 2020-2041 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 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.

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.

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

Bart Buchanan, Clerk of the Court

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

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

LEGALS IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No.: 2020-174 NOTICE TO CREDITORS The Estate of Marty Lee Browning, deceased LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION having been granted to the undersigned on the 10th day of August, 2020, by the Honorable Ronnie Osborn, Judge of the Probate Court of DeKalb County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said Estate are required to file an itemized and verified statement of such claim in the office of the said Judge of Probate within six months from above date, or said claim will be barred and payment prohibited.

Betty Browning, Personal Representative To be published: August 14, August 21, August 28

LEGALS IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No.: 2020-181 IN RE: The Estate of Eddie Eugene Underwood Sr., deceased NOTICE TO CREDITORS

TAKE NOTICE that Letters of Administration having been granted to Regena Elaine Dooley, as Administrator of the Estate of Eddie Eugene Underwood, Sr., deceased, on the 10th day of August, 2020, by the Honorable Ronnie 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.

To be published: August 14, August 21, August 28

LEGALS IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No.: 2020-172 ADMINISTRATOR'S NOTICE TO FILE CLAIMS In the matter of the Estate of WALTER B. RAYMOND, III, deceased. LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION of the Estate of Walter B. Raymond III, deceased, having been granted to the undersigned on the 10th day of August, 2020 by the Honorable Ronnie Osborn, Judge of Probate of said County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law, or the same will be barred.

To be published: August 14, August 21, August 28

LEGALS IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No.: 2020-198 IN RE: THE ESTATE OF JACK D. BUTLER, deceased NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT TO BE PUBLISHED BY PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE In the matter of the Estate of JACK

D. BUTLER, deceased, Letters of Administration os said deceased having been granted to JANIE BUTLER BAUGH, Personal Representative, on the 14th day of August, 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 grant 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: August 21, August 28, September 4

LEGALS IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No.: 2020-199 IN RE: THE ESTATE OF MARY RUTH BUTLER, deceased NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT TO BE PUBLISHED BY PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE In the matter of the Estate of MARY RUTH BUTLER, deceased, Letters of Administration os said deceased having been granted to JANIE BUTLER BAUGH, Personal Representative, on the 14th day of August, 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 grant 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: August 21, August 28, September 4

LEGALS IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA

ADVERTISE HERE FOR JUST 12.50 Case No.: 2020-181 IN RE: The Estate of Eddie Eugene Underwood Sr., deceased NOTICE TO CREDITORS TAKE NOTICE that Letters of Administration having been granted to Regena Elaine Dooley, as Administrator of the Estate of Eddie Eugene Underwood, Sr., deceased, on the 10th day of August, 2020, by the Honorable Ronnie 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.

To be published: August 14, August 21, August 28

LEGALS IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No.: 2020-190 IN RE: THE ESTATE OF JAMIE LYNN MURPHY, deceased NOTICE TO FILE CLAIMS TAKE NOTICE that Letters of Administration having been granted to PERRYN G. CARROLL, as Administrator of the Estate of JAMIE LYNN MURPHY, deceased, on the 13th day of August 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.

To be published: August 21, August 28, September 4

f w n a c w t p

FRIDAY — AUGUST 21, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

POLITICS

INSIDE THE STATEHOUSE We Have Six Living Past Governors. How Are They Doing?

By Steve Flowers Political Columnist MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Some of you may wonder how many past governors we have in Alabama who are still living and how they are doing. We have six living past governors.

Governor John Patterson is our oldest living chief executive.

Patterson is 99 years old and living on his ancestral family farm in rural Tallapoosa County in an obscure area named Goldville. Patterson is a legend in Alabama politics.

He was Governor from 1958-1962 and was at the forefront of the beginning of the Civil Rights issue.

He has the distinction of being the only person to beat George Wallace in a governor’s race in the Heart of Dixie. When he was elected in 1958, he was 37-years-old and was dubbed the “Boy Governor”. Patterson was Attorney General of Alabama for a term prior to being governor and served several decades on the Court of Criminal Appeals after his governorship.

He spends his time on his farm reading and tending to his animals. In fact, visitors to his home will find he has a pet goat named Rebecca. She sits and listens intently to your conversation and her head will move and look at those talking as though she is part of the conversation.

Governor Patterson is totally on top of his game and has attended numerous weddings and funerals in the past year.

He recognizes and converses with friends and relatives.

Forrest “Fob” James served two terms as governor, although not concurrently. He was first elected in 1978 as a Democrat, serving 1979-1982, and secondly in 1994 as a Republican serving from 1995-1998.

He is the only person in state history to be elected governor as a Democrat and a Republican. Fob is 85 and doing well. He lives primarily in Miami, Florida and spends his days walking and caring for his wife, Bobbie.

Robert Bentley was one of the most successful and respected dermatologists in the state prior to entering politics. Bentley served two terms in the Alabama House prior to his being elected governor, twice. He was first elected governor in 2010 and reelected, overwhelmingly, in 2014. He served over six years as governor and did a good job. He is 77-years-old and in good health. He has resumed his medical/dermatology practice in Tuscaloosa.

Bob Riley served two successful terms as governor. He was elected in 2002 and reelected in 2006, therefore serving as governor eight full years.

He is only 75-years-old. He was raised in Clay County, and now lives in Birmingham with his lovely wife, Patsy. He has several lucrative lobbying contracts.

If anyone was ever born to be governor, it was Don Siegelman. He was born and raised in Mobile.

He went on to the University of Alabama where he was SGA President and then went on to graduate from Georgetown Law School.

He served in Alabama politics for 26 years. He was elected Secretary of State, Attorney General of Alabama and Lt. Governor prior to his election as Governor in 1998. He served one term as governor. Siegelman is the last member of the Democratic party as well as the only Roman Catholic to serve as Governor of Alabama.

Don is doing well at 74.

I enjoy visiting with him over lunch. He enjoys time with his wife, Lori, and his two grown children, Joseph and Dana and his dog Kona. He has a book out entitled, Stealing our Democracy, which is doing well in sales.

Speaking of being born to be governor, Jim Folsom, Jr. was literally born in the Governor’s Mansion in May 1949, while his daddy, James “Big Jim” Folsom was governor his first term, 1946-1950. Jim Folsom, Jr. had an illustrious career in

Alabama politics. He was elected and served several times as a member of the Public Service Commission and three terms as Lt. Governor, prior to becoming governor in 1993. He did an excellent job as governor and is credited with bringing Mercedes to Alabama.

Little Jim was a brilliant politician inherently being the son of the legendary “Big Jim” Folsom. However, most folks say his beautiful wife, Marsha Guthrie, is the better politician of the two.

Jim and Marsha are doing well and live in their hometown of Cullman.

Their son and daughter are grown and are doing well.

Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist.

He served 16 years in the state legislature. He may be reached at www. steveflowers.us.

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Cagle Announces Re-Election Bid for Fyffe Mayor Submitted by Paul Cagle for Mayor of Fyffe FYFFE, Ala. — Incumbent Paul Cagle has announced his intention to seek re-election as Mayor of Fyffe.

Cagle has served as Mayor since 2016. Before his election as mayor, he served on the Fyffe Town Council for four years.

During his first term as Mayor, Cagle touts several accomplishments, including a new splash pad, a new roof at the senior center, sidewalk extensions, rebuilding the park pavilion, and speed tables around the school.

He also helped facilitate several grants to the community, including support for the fire and police departments, and a grant to improve the

(Submitted Photo)

highway, which supports local industries.

Cagle is married to Patricia Kennamer Cagle, and they have four children and eight grandchildren.

He worked at Farmers Telecommunications Cooperative (FTC) for 41 years. Cagle is an alumnus of Northeast Alabama Community College (NACC), where he studied Business Management.

“Feel free to contact me at (256) 601-7985 with any questions you may have,” concluded Cagle. “I would appreciate your vote on Tuesday, August 25.”

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FRIDAY — AUGUST 21, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCHT

SPORTS

And So It Begins...Football 2020!

Southern Torch and Jackson Blaze Sports Editor Marla Jones will serve as a field correspondent to update during half-time and for post-game.

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com ALABAMA — The 2020 football season will begin for most teams on Friday night. For up to date coverage of each game, tune in to our Southern Torch Facebook page and follow up after the games by listening to the Round-Up Show hosted by Blake Wright and Seth Dodd.

On 98-3 Wild Country, a regional game, to be announced weekly, will be covered live by Jake Harris and Jesse Biddle.

This week will be Isabella vs. Fyffe.

On 101-7 The Torch, tune in to Scottsboro football coverage by Alan Cox, Justin Thrasher, and Heath Lokey.

Collinsville @ Section The Collinsville Panthers finished the 2019 season with a 12-2 record and recently made the change from 2A to 3A. The Section Lions finished the 2019 season with a 3-7 record.

Collinsville holds the 9-7 record against Section, winning last year 41-7.

East Central @ Cornerstone The Cornerstone Christian Eagles finished the 2019 season with a 2-4 record and has recently moved from a 6-man football team to an 8-man team. The East Central Patriots lost each game that they played in 2019.

New Hope @ Crossville The Crossville Lions finished last year’s season with a 2-8 record but has 17 seniors returning this season. The New Hope Indians went 5-5 last season. The Crossville Lions hold a 7-1 record over New Hope.

Briarwood Christian @ Fort Payne The Fort Payne Wildcats finished 2019 with a 9-3 record.

Athens was the Wildcats scheduled season opener but canceled due to COVID concerns.Fort Payne replaced Athens with Briarwood Christian. Briarwood Christian finished their 2019 season with a 12-2, losing to Pleasant Grove in the semifinal round of the Class 5A playoffs.

Isabella @ Fyffe The Fyffe Red Devils finished the 2019 season with 15-0 record and winning the Class 2A State Championship and only allowed 36 points during the season. The Red Devils jumped from Class 2A to 3A this season. The Isabella Mustangs moved from Class 1A to 2A this season. The Mustangs had a 12-1 record last season and were defeated in the third round of AHSAA State playoffs by Lanett who went on the claim the Class 1A State Championship.

Geraldine @ Piedmont The Geraldine Bulldogs will open up their season against a familiar foe, the Piedmont Bulldogs. Piedmont defeated Geraldine 33-7 in the third round of the AHSAA State Playoffs The Geraldine Bulldogs finished the 2019 season with a 8-5 record. Piedmont then went on to win the Class 3A AHSAA State Championship last season.

Ider @ Woodville The Ider Hornets finished last year’s season with a 2-8 record. The Woodville Panthers ended their season with a 4-7 record. Ider holds a 2-0 series record over the Panthers, winning 53-24 in their last meeting.

Sylvania @ Saks The Sylvania Rams finished the 2019 season with a 7-4 record for 2019, and made it to the first round of AHSAA playoffs. Saks finished with a 4-5 record and missed the playoffs for the first time in eight seasons.

Valley Head @ Ragland The Valley Head Tigers went 6-5 last season and finished as runners-up for the Class 1 A Region 7. They lost in the first round of the state playoffs to Hackleburg, 34-19. The Ragland Purple Devils are coached by Sylvania alumnus, Derrek Sewell. The Purple Devils defeated Valley Head, 26-14 last season, and finished 2-8 for the 2019 season.

Plainview vs Spring Garden @ Cedar Bluff (JAMBOREE) North Sand Mountain @ Cedar Bluff (JAMBOREE) Scottsboro @ St. Clair County (JAMBOREE) Pisgah and North Jackson will start their season on August 28.

Southern Torch is your sports headquarters for the Friday Night Lights!

JOHN SMITH

98-3 Wild Country Regional Play crew Jake Harris and Jesse Biddle

101-7 The Torch Scottsboro Play by Play crew: Heath Lokey, Alan Cox, and Justin Thrasher.

Southern Torch Round-Up Show, brought to you by Twin City Used Car Sales, hosted by Blake Wright and Seth Dodd.

Neal was on the math team at Sylvania and has a a BS in Applied Mathematics from Auburn. He has had 17 books published and has written for a local newspaper for the last 13 years.

As the curator of the Fort Payne Depot Museum for the last three years, he has cut expenses in half while increasing revenues, including securing over $50,000 in grants. He can do the same for the city.

Neal started a publishing company from scratch, which has now published over 880 books. He understands hard work and the struggles of small business owners, and knows the importance of creating jobs, especially now after the shutdown.

• Proven Leadership • Experienced in Government Finances & Budgets • Ability to Lead Fort Payne through Uncertain Times to a Bright Future • Solid Supporter of the Fort Payne School System and Staff

• Balanced Budget • Upgrade Police, Fire, and EMS in the City • Budget for AND Build a New Fire Station • Return and Attract City Workforce by Enhancing Salaries and Benefits

A softie for animals, Neal is the only candidate whose platform also includes a plan to decrease our stray pet population and very high euthanasia #s.

Here he is pictured with his cat.

(Well, maybe he should’ve worn his glasses.)

Vote for Neal Wooten on August 25th.

Thank you.

FRIDAY — AUGUST 21, 2020

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FRIDAY — AUGUST 21, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

DEATH NOTICES KERBY

Linda Sue Oliver - 68 of Henagar, passed away on Wednesday, August 12 at CHI Memorial Hospital. Funeral services were held on Friday, August 14 at 2 p.m. in the chapel at Kerby Funeral Home with Chaplin Roger Haynes and Pastor Kerry Bryant officiating. Burial followed in Greenhaven Memorial Gardens.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, August 13 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday, August 14 from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.

She is survived by her husband, Rodney Oliver of Henagar; two sons, Steve Clines (Katrina) of Rising Fawn, Ga., and Jamie Clines

(Aimee) of Sylvania; two daughters, Angela Michaels (Perry) of Trenton, Ga., and Priscilla Frazier (Michael) of Fort Payne; one stepson, Joseph Oliver (Dana) of Henagar; four brothers, Bobby Payne of Henagar, Donald Payne of Sylvania, Wayne Payne of Sylvania, and Terry Payne of Sylvania; one sister, Ann Edmondson of Bentonville, Ark.; 12 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Slim and Lylean Payne, and her greatgrandson, Jax Atchley.

Patricia “Tash�

Hartline - 65 of Ider, died on Saturday, August 15. Services were held on Wednesday, August 19 at the funeral home with burial in Fuller Cemetery.

Joe Roden - 77 of Pisgah, died on Wednesday, August

12. Services and burial were held on Friday, August 14 at Pisgah Baptist Church Cemetery.

BURT Hubert Blalock - 73 of Mentone, died on Thursday, August 13. Services were held on Saturday, August 15 at Burt Chapel-Valley Head with burial in Bankhead Cemetery.

Susan Lynn Akes - 58 of Valley Head, died on Thursday, August 13. Services will be announced at a later date.

WILSON Charlie Culpepper - Died on Wednesday, August 12. Services were held on Saturday, August 15 at Fischer Cemetery.

Sharon Irwin Dillow - 58 of Fort Payne, died on Wednesday, August 12. Services were held on Friday, August 14 at New Oregon UMC with

burial in Fischer Cemetery.

Saturday, August 22 at the funeral home.

Mark “Tony�

Anthony Richards - 62 of Rainsville, died on Thursday, August 13. Private services will be held with a celebration of life at a later date.

Benjamin “Ben�

Hardy Williams - 74 of Flat Rock, died on Saturday, August 15.

Services will be held on Sunday, August 23 at the funeral home with burial in Fuller Cemetery.

CROSSVILLE Mary Royce Griffin - 82 of Crossville, died on Thursday, August 13.

Services were held on Sunday, August 16 with burial in DeKalb Memorial Gardens.

Ferris Thurston Harbour - 79 of Crossville, died on Friday, August 14.

Services were held on Sunday, August 16 at the funeral home with burial in Union Grove Cemetery.

CORNER STONE Estil “Skeeter�

Levon Pritcher - 72 of Trenton, Ga., died on Monday, August 10. Drive-in services will be held on

Burt Funeral H omes

Joe Barnett - 89 of Henagar, died on Monday, August 17.

Services were held on Wednesday, August 19 at the funeral home with burial in New Home Cemetery.

W.T. WILSON Patricia Faye Wigley - 68 of Valley Head, died on Wednesday, August 12. Services were held on Friday, August 14 at the funeral home with burial in White Hall Cemetery.

William Travis Skinner - 50 of Pisgah, died on Thursday, August 13.

Services and burial were held on Sunday, August 16 at Henagar Cemetery.

Payne, died on Saturday, August 15.

Services and burial were held on Tuesday, August 18 at Mt. View Mausoleum.

Nell Johnson Ashley - 82 of Rainsville, died on Saturday, August 15.

Services and burial were held on Sunday, August 15 at Nazareth Cemetery.

RAINSVILLE Barbara Ann Robinson - 66 of Sylvania, died on Wednesday, August 12. Services were held on Saturday, August 15 at the funeral home with burial in Kirk Memorial Gardens.

Vivian Barksdale Fairris - 73 of Fyffe, died on Saturday, August 14. Services were held on Monday, August 17 at the funeral home with burial in Kirk Memorial Gardens.

Roberta Marie Goza - 75 of Fort

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THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FRIDAY — AUGUST 21, 2020

MAYOR OF IDER “I would appreciate your support and your vote on Tuesday, August 25!�

PD. POL. ADV. BY WENDY LASSETTER, 120 FOREST LN. IDER, AL 35981

RANDALL HAM

 � � � �   ­ € ‚ � ƒ„…  ‚ † ‡ ‚ ‚‚ ˆ�

“This is an important election and we shouldn’t take our choice in who we vote for lightly. Our election shouldn’t simply be a popularity contest. It’s too important for that.

We should consider which ďŹ ve citizens are most qualiďŹ ed to serve, to listen, to make difďŹ cult decisions, and to always make the best interest of Fort Payne as a whole the priority.â€?

 � ‰

256.997.3182

randallham1@gmail.com

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FRIDAY — AUGUST 21, 2020

BOE

FROM PAGE 1

return to campus which is evident by the high number of attendance," said Barnett. "Today we are at 95 percent attendance which is great for any day-especially during times like we are living in currently. DeKalb County Schools is the largest employer in our service area and we also serve nearly 9,000 students. Therefore, like the flu, strep throat, etc.. there will always be individuals associated with our system that are impacted by the virus."

"How we inform one another and how we respond is paramount to overall prevention. There will certainly be cases and incidents as we open schools, but fortunately, these have been very minimal and the quick communication from stakeholders has been paramount to preventing

these individuals from attending our campuses and mitigating any spread," Barnett continued. "We need everyone to continue being strong partners and prevent the spreading as best we can. From the first couple of weeks, I can tell you from visiting the schools that our students, faculty and staff are doing an amazing job in our local schools. I am very proud of them. So I ask that you continue to take these reasonable precautions we have in place and we can overcome this virus together."

Southern Torch will continue to update as Barnett and other school officials release more information.

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

THE SOUTHERN TORCHT

Fort Payne Finalizes Property Purchase

By Marla Jones, Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

Malik Deno (right) is the first person to pass all tests in the Alabama Fire College after completing the Fire Science Program right here in DeKalb County. He is pictured with Rainsville Fire Chief Willimac Wright (Marla Jones | Southern Torch)

HIRE FROM PAGE 1

The position of Revenue Officer became vacant after Matt Crum transferred to Assistant Chief for the Rainsville Police Department.

The vacated position

by Kennedi Traylor as a sewer/sanitation clerk will be posted until September 2.

Rainsville Fire Chief Willimac Wright introduced Malik Deno, a recent graduate of Sylvania High School. Deno is the first person who attended the Fire Science Program offered through the DeKalb County Technical School, to pass all tests in the 2-year program offered by the Alabama Fire College. He is now a certified volunteer firefighter for the Rainsville Fire Department.

Wright also updated the council that this year, the Fire Science Program had 17 students with each school in the county

represented.

Eric Samples. PBA President reported on the very successful event held over the weekend. The Little Britches Rodeo, which is a rodeo for ages 4 through 19, held an event and have booked again for later this year. Samples went on the say that all stalls were rented as over 500 horses were brought for the rodeo. He predicted that the Agri-Business Center netted over $20,000 for the event.

In other business the council approved: • Street light and pole for Mandi Lane and a street light for 187 Christopher Drive • The purchase of a debris truck loader vacuum system • Purchased 200 additional garbage cans at a cost of $11,419.20.

The next meeting of the Rainsville City Council will be held Thursday, September 10, due to the Labor Day holiday.

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

The Council passed Resolution 2020-36, which gave final authorization for title work for the purchase of the “Jacaway Property� to be used for industrial recruitment.

Ordinance 2020-06 was passed after the second reading that established no parking on Echols Drive, which is adjacent to Plasman. This will allow the steady flow of traffic for new industries that will be using that street.

In new business, the council approved the final plat of a proposed subdivision (1.63 acres that divided from the existing 6.3 acres) which is located at 2701 Greenhill Blvd.

The next meeting of the Fort Payne City Council will be Septemeber 1, 2020.

Open House for Fort Payne Public Works

By Marla Jones, Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

FORT PAYNE, Ala. — After a fire, the Fort Payne Public Works building has risen from the ashes with a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility. On Tuesday, a ribbon cutting and tour of the facility was held.

FRIDAY — AUGUST 21, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

If the effort to make our city “wet” succeeds, our children will be exposed to alcohol on a daily basis.

• Studies show that early exposure and usage of alcohol, independent of other risk factors, may contribute to the development of future alcohol problems • Those who begin drinking at an early age are at greater risk of developing alcohol dependence at some point in their lives • Findings show that among all drinkers under 25, early drinking was associated with a higher risk of developing alcoholism within 10 years of first starting to drink • A 2005 study said an astonishing 26 percent of high school students nationwide took their first sip of alcohol before the age of 13

VOTE NO ON AUGUST 25 PAID FOR BY CONCERNED CITIZENS OF THE CITY OF RAINSVILLE

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FRIDAY — AUGUST 21, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

TUNE IN ON TUESDAY, AUGUST 25 AT 7:30 P.M. TO THE SOUTHERN TORCH FACEBOOK PAGE WHERE MANAGING EDITOR MARLA JONES WILL BE LIVE WITH FULL RESULTS FROM MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS ACROSS DEKALB COUNTY.

BENEFIT RIDE FOR SALLY DEAN

Â

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 Â

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MARSHALL STIEFEL Rainsville City Council, Place 3

“I humbly ask for your support and hope that you will re-elect me to the Council knowing that I will be an advocate for the people and will never stop defending your rights to live the best life possible in the City of Rainsville.�

PLACE 1

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FRIDAY — AUGUST 21, 2020

ELECT

“Moving Fort Payne Forward!�

• Incumbent Councilwoman since 2016 • Pro-Business Principles • Instrumental in Designing Main Street • Auburn Alumna • Member of Various Community Boards

#TOGETHERFP

PAID FOR BY LYNN LOCKLEAR-BREWER FOR FORT PAYNE CITY COUNCIL 4502 GODFREY AVE. NE • FORT PAYNE, AL 35967

BANK OWNED PROPERTY Contact Brian Harris (256) 279-0782

â—Š 30 Acres â—Š 4 Poultry Houses â—Š 2,269 Sq. Ft. Home â—Š 2,000 Sq. Ft. Shop

Albertville (256) 878-2631 • Athens (256) 232-0344 • Cullman (256) 734-0132 Talladega (256) 362-0507 • Tuscumbia (256) 381-5512

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FRIDAY — AUGUST 21, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FORT PAYNE CITY COUNCIL So, what have you done for the last four years?

I am glad you asked. Here are a few things we have addressed as a council.

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­ PD. POL. ADV. BY WADE HILL • 529 DeSOTO DR. NE, FORT PAYNE, AL 35967