GET A SLAM DUNK AT TWIN CITY! 1411 Glenn Blvd SW, Fort Payne, AL 35967
WWW.BOBBYLEDBETTER.COM • 256.844.2210
THE SOUTHERN TORCH / FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2020 / VOL. 6, NO. 9 / $1.00 THIS WEEK IN SPORTS •A •A
THIS WEEK IN BUSINESS
• Commission Honors Leadership DeKalb • See Who's Featured in our Biz Spotlight!
LIKE
THIS WEEK IN POLITICS
• Brewer Announces Re-Election Bid • Inside The Statehouse w/ Steve Flowers
UP IN THE AIR
FOLLOW
TWEET
THIS WEEK IN COMMUNITY • Sav-A-Life Plans Memorial Garden •A
State Round Bound
Geraldine Holds Hearing for Buckles
By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com
GERALDINE, Ala. — On Tuesday, a crowd gathered at the Geraldine Town Hall in support of Assistant Police Chief Jeff Buckles, who is currently on paid leave due to comments made on Facebook. The Geraldine Town Council held a special called meeting to have a due process hearing. Buckles chose to have his side of the story told in a private meeting with Town Attorney Nikki Scott and his own personal third-party, impartial lawyer. Buckles himself was not able to make a comment regarding the situation. Buckles, who has served as Assistant Chief of the Geraldine Police Department for two years, took to Facebook immediately following President Donald Trump’s
Jeff Buckles of the Geraldine Police Department is under investigation after comments made online regarding U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. (Marla Jones | Southern Torch)
State of the Union earlier this month. “Pelosi just ripped up his speech. Road Side bomb on her way home and any other Dumbocrats,� Buckles stated in his post. The post was later deleted with Buckles apologizing, “I have definitely offended some people with my
remarks. It just rips my heart out that our great country is so divided.� Following the incident, Geraldine Chief of Police Heath Albright stated, “The Geraldine Police Department has been made aware of a Facebook post made by one of our officers. The post has since been
deleted. The incident is being investigated. Due to the current investigation, no further comment can be made. We will make further statements at the conclusion of the investigation.� Geraldine Mayor Chuck Ables stated Buckles was on paid leave, pending investigation, and no further comments could be made. According to a statement made by the Town of Geraldine, “Officer Jeff Buckles had a due process hearing before an impartial decision-maker on Tuesday, February 25. A report will be sent to the Mayor and Council at a later date.� The decision on whether or not to take disciplinary action against Buckles could be made as soon as the next council meeting on Tuesday, March 3. Southern Torch will continue to update as this story develops.
Don't forget to vote on Tuesday, March 3! Polling stations will open at 7AM and close at 7PM. To find your polling place, registration information or a sample ballot, please visit the Alabama Secretary of State's website at alabamavotes.gov!
By Marla Jones, Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — For the first time in school history, the Collinsville Lady Panthers (28-3) are playing the Class 2A Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) on Friday, February 28 at 9am against Cold Springs (31-4) in Birmingham. Follow Southern Torch on Facebook for full coverage.
Two Killed in Crash at Hammonds Crossroads By Zach Hester Reporter zach@southerntorch.com LAKEVIEW, Ala. — A two-vehicle crash claimed two lives yesterday in the Lakeview community. The crash occurred at 11:40 AM at the intersection of DeKalb County Road 400 and Alabama Highway 75, more commonly known as Hammonds Crossroads. Emily Rae Denham, 19 of Dutton, and her passenger, Cody Austin Martin, 20 of Pisgah, were
pronounced dead on the scene after Denham's 2015 Nissan Altima collided with a 2020 Mack tractortrailer. The driver of the Mack truck was not injured. No further information is available at this time as ALEA Troopers continue to investigate.
Rainsville Recognizes Tree City Winners By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com RAINSVILLE, Ala. — At Thursday’s meeting of the Rainsville City Council, Tree City Chairperson, Kayron Guffey awarded winners of the Arbor Day posters. Guffey was joined by Dan Green and Jeff Keener of the DeKalb County Forestry Commission. There were 105 posters entries and the following were awarded cash prizes: From Plainview: • First Place - Stephen Crowell ($50)
• Second Place - Andrea Bellamy ($20) • Third Place - Reagan Martin ($10) From Cornerstone: • First Place - Maggie Taylor ($50) • Second Place - Noor Angel ($20) • Third Place - Tamia Ballard ($10) “This is the start of the seventh year as Tree City and this is the first year we’ve been able to be included in the poster contest,â€? said Guffey. Rainsville Technology Inc. (RTI) matched the $800 that was awarded by the
Rainsville City Council allowing for the purchase of fourteen trees. On February 27, Rainsville’s Arbor Day, trees will be planted at Plainview and at Cornerstone. Jonathan Phillips, Director of the DeKalb County Technology Center, spoke to the council regarding National Career Tech Month. Phillips recognized the Plainview High School FFA officers, Jessica Westmoreland
>> COUNCIL, P5
PICTURED (Back Row): Jeff Keener, Dan Green, Brandon Freeman, Derek Rosson, Rodger Lingerfelt, Bejan Taheri, and Marshall Stiefel. (Front Row): Stephen Crowell, Reagan Martin, Kayron Guffey, Maggie Taylor, Noor Angel, and Tamia Ballard. (Marla Jones | Southern Torch)
• LISTEN TO 98-3 WILD COUNTRY & 101-7 THE TORCH
•
•
SYLVANIA PHARMACY YOUR FRIEND, YOUR DRUGSTORE! Visit our website at www.southerntorch.com for daily news updates and pick up your weekly print edition at news stands every Friday.
2
FRIDAY — FEBRUARY 28, 2020
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
GET A SLAM DUNK AT TWIN CITY! 1411 Glenn Blvd SW, Fort Payne, AL 35967
WWW.BOBBYLEDBETTER.COM • 256.844.2210
@JACKSONBLAZEAL
Headed Back to the Championship
Submitted by AHSAA
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Pisgah’s Lady Eagles outscored Pike Road 29-14 in the third period Tuesday morning and advanced to the Class 3A state championship game for the third year in a row with a 72-58 come-from-behind win. The Class 3A girls’ semifinal game opened play Tuesday morning as the 98th AHSAA State Basketball Championships moved into its second day at the BJCC Legacy Arena. Pike Road (28-5) led 26-24 at the half but Pisgah (30-3) clawed back with its strong finish thanks to some strong shooting from the field and the free-throw line. Chloe Womack had 26 points for Coach Carey Ellison’s Eagles. She was 15-of-16 at the foul line – including 10-for-10 in the second half. Kallie Tinker added 18 points. She had two 3-pointers and was 6-of-8
The Lady Eagles' Molly Heard added 10 points, eight rebounds, and two assists to lead Pisgah to victory. (AHSAANow)
on free throws. Molly Heard added 10 points, eight rebounds, two assists, steals and two blocked shots. The Patriots, coached by Courtney Ward, placed five players in double figures with Aaliyah Manora scoring 13, Sakoya Knight and Tamirea Thomas, 12 each, Skye Harris-Butler 11 and Johnsheria Clement 10. Knight had nine rebounds, Thomas has eight and Manora had five assists.
Harris-Butler also had four blocked shots. The victory sends Pisgah into the 3A finals Friday at 12:30 p.m. The Eagles have won seven state titles in the school’s history, including 2018 and 2019. Other titles came in 1981, 1982, 1997, 2003 and 2005. The Lady Eagles will face T.R. Miller in the championship game on Friday, February 28 at 12:30pm.
•
A Jack of All Trades
If you need it done, call us!
✓
Speciality & Hard to Reach Places
✓
Water Drainage, Sewer, Ponds, & Pools
✓ Grated AND Rock!
✓
Mowing, Mulching, Tree & Bush Trimming,Weeding, & Gutter Cleaning!
✓
Hot & Cold Water for Anything & Everything!
glennwjones@me.com
2020 Big Bass Splash
The largest bass tournament in the South in coming to Goose Pond colony. (Submitted Photo)
By B.A. Little, Reporter • beverlyannette@southerntorch.com SCOTTSBORO, Ala. – Over the past sixteen years, the Mountain Lakes Chamber of Commerce has brought Sealy Outdoors and the McDonald’s Big Bass Splash to Lake Guntersville in Scottsboro. 98-3 Wild Country (WKEA) will continue to be the exclusive radio station for anglers, spectators, and the listening audience. The tournament continues to grow every year. Bob Sealy, head of the organization said, “We are excited about coming back to Scottsboro, Alabama at this great lake. It is now the largest amateur tournament of its kind in the South. We know this lake (Guntersville) has a great bass reputation and perhaps one year the tournament here will be as large as our Texas Big Bass Splash.â€? The number of anglers that registered and fished the McDonald’s Big Bass Splash has grown every year it has been on Lake Guntersville. In 2020, the total of amateur anglers is expected to grow again as they try their skill at the $280,750 in cash and prizes to be awarded during the 16th Annual McDonald’s Big Bass Splash. The Big Bass Splash will be held March 27, 28, & 29 at Goosepond in Scottsboro. There will be fifteen places paid in cash each hour of each tournament day beginning with the 7-8 AM hour and continuing through the 1-2 PM hour for the fifteen single heaviest basses weighed in. Hourly updates will be broadcasted live on WKEA 98.3 FM for all three days. The first place of each hour will take home $1,500! Contestant(s) weighing in the first 3.00/4.00/5.00 exact weight bass each day of the tournament will win $1,000. All contestants are eligible to win a Triton 179 TRX Bass Boat, powered by Mercury, and equipped with Minn Kota and Lowrance in the famous “Elimination Drawingâ€?. Additionally, overall awards include a cash payout for 2nd through 5th place winners. Sarah Stahl, Chamber Director of Tourism added “After all that’s said and done, the 2019 McDonald’s Big Bass Splash on Lake Guntersville had an economic impact of over $3.3 Million spent in our local businesses. Anglers came from 32 states to fish in the tournament and for every ($1.00) dollar that Jackson County Tourism invested in this tournament, $3.63 was returned in the form of sales tax, lodging tax and fuel tax to our city and county.â€? Don’t forget about the “Little Anglers Tournamentâ€? that goes on at the same time. Registered kids ages 5-12 can catch any kind of fish and be eligible to win prizes. Bring the kids to the tournament and have a blast! For more information or to register, go to www.sealyoutdoors.com, call 888.698.2591 or the Chamber at 256-259-5500. For sponsorships and advertising with 98.3, contact (256) 259-2341 or (256) 638-4040.
Efforts Underway to Transfer TVA under Jackson County Ownership By Dylan Smith JB Managing Editor dylan@southerntorch.com JACKSON COUNTY, Ala. — Commission Chairman Tim Guffey met with Congressman Mo Brooks in Washington on Monday to discuss plans to transfer land currently under TVA ownership to local stakeholders. These plans come as county officials ramp up their efforts to launch an aggressive industry recruitment campaign. Freeing up TVA owned land would allow the county’s Economic Development Authority to market the undeveloped real estate to prospective industry. “I’m working with Congressman Mo Brooks on a project to get TVA’s Board to release all property in Jackson County
that’s not in the flood plains at a fair market value for Economic development,� said Guffey. Chairman Guffey praised the Congressman’s efforts on the issue. “Congressman Brooks has really stepped up to help me put this plan together.� Rep. Brooks has formerly expressed support for TVA transitioning idle land
assets to Jackson County for economic development purposes. TVA, one of the region’s most powerful corporate agencies of the federal government, currently manages nearly 293,000 acres of federally owned land across the Tennessee Valley. This is a developing story. Jackson Blaze will continue in-depth coverage of new developments.
FRIDAY — FEBRUARY 28, 2020
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
e
3
COMMUNITY
Memorial Garden for the Sylvania Soccer to Host Bingo Night Unborn planned for DeKalb
The 2020 Sylvania Lady Rams soccer team. (Submitted Photo)
By Marla Jones Managing Editor The garden will be located next to Women's Care Center in Fort Payne. (caredekalb.org)
By Southern Torch Staff DeKALB COUNTY, Ala. — Sav-A-Life of DeKalb County, Inc. has announced the start of a memorial garden for women and men grieving from abortion. The project, which will be located next to the Women's Care Center office in downtown Fort Payne, will include a gazebo structure, landscaping, and lighting with an estimated cost of $25,000. This site will provide a private, quiet place for people to place their baby's name on a monument and thus continue the healing process of grief. The garden accompanies the post-abortion Bible study classes for women and men provided by the Women's Care Center. For more information or to contribute to the project, please contact the Women's Care Center at (256) 845-0838 or at savealife@bellsouth.net.
marla@southerntorch.com SYLVANIA, Ala. — Sylvania Soccer will host a bingo night on Saturday, February 29. Tickets for the event are $20 and include one chicken quesadilla meal from Limon's, tea or water and one bingo ticket. Food will be served at 5pm and the bingo will begin at
6pm. Prizes include gift cards or gifts from local businesses. More bingo cards will be available for purchase, three cards for five dollars.
Tickets may be purchased at People's Independent Bank in Sylvania. For more information, please call Tammy at (256) 605-0641.
DeKALB COUNTY UPCOMING EVENTS Every Monday, By His Hands Outreach Ministry - The By His Hands Outreach Ministry will host a soup kitchen beginning on Mondays at 6pm. The Clothes Closet will be open Monday through Friday from 9am to 5pm. Both are at 2494 Church Avenue in Rainsville. Donations are greatly appreciated! Every Monday, Sons of Confederate Veterans - The Sons of Confederate Veterans meets the 2nd Monday of each month at Burnt Church at 6pm in Sylvania. Every Monday, Sons of the American Revolution - The Sons of the American Revolution meets the 3rd Monday of each month at Western Sizzlin' in Fort Payne at 6pm. Every Wednesday, Breakthrough Church free
meal - Come and enjoy a free meal and hear the Word of God on Wednesday nights starting January 3 at 5:30pm. If you need a ride, please contact: Lynn Haas at (256) 605-7854 or Connie Holdem at (256) 605-1776. Every Wednesday, Parents of Addicted Loved Ones - A new support group for Parents of Addicted Loved Ones is starting in Fort Payne at Word of Life Ministry, located at 3610 Gault Avenue North. The meeting will be held every Tuesday from 6pm to 7:30pm. Any adult family member over 18 is welcome to attend these PAL meetings, however, for insurance reasons, no one under the age of 18 may attend and child care will not be provided. For more information, visit palgroup. org.
Every Third Thursday, Alzheimer's Caregivers Support Group - The Alzheimer's Association will begin hosting a caregivers support group solely devoted to those who provide care for people with Alzheimer's on the third Thursday of every month from 11am to 12pm at the Rainbow City First United Methodist Church. For more information, please call Olivia Kendrick at (256) 454-4375. February 29, "A Midsummer Night's Dream" at the Opera House - The Fort Payne Opera House will present Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" on Saturday, February 29 at 2 pm at a cost of $10 per person. The event is presented by Landmarks of DeKalb Co. Alabama. Tickets may be
TEACHER OF THE WEEK
MRS. KAYLA McATEER OF COLLINSVILLE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Nominate your favorite teacher to be the next Teacher of the Week! The teacher selected from the nominees will receive $100 from Southern Torch & First State Bank! Go to 983WILDCOUNTRY.COM to nominate your favorite teacher today!
SOUTHERN TORCH • 98-3 WILD COUNTRY • 101-7 THE TORCH Staff:
Southern Torch (USPS Periodicals #19790) is published each Friday by Southern Torch, Inc. 203 Main Street E, Rainsville, Ala. 35986. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Southern Torch, P.O. Box 614, Rainsville, Ala. 35986-0614.
Eloise Smith, General Manager Marla Jones, Managing Editor/Sports Jenna Sue Payne, Media Sales Manager Joe Sims, Radio Operations Manager Zach Hester, Art Director/Reporter Amy Thrash, Account Executive B. Annette Little, Account Executive Jodi Skinner, Account Executive Teresa Smith, Traffic Director Dylan Smith, Jackson Blaze Managing Editor Lindsey Jones, Accounting Marshall Stiefel, Distribution Manager
256.638.4040 • 256.259.2341 MEMBERSHIP RATES:
Regular Yearly Rate — $30 Senior /Veteran Yearly Rates — $25
purchased at www. landmarksdekalbal.org or by phone at (256) 845-6888. March 1, Five Points Baptist Church Singing Five Points Baptist Church will host a singing on Sunday, March 1 at 10:30am featuring the group Fox Mountain Express. The church is located at 1697 County Road 782 in Ider. Everyone is welcome! March 6-7, Shrine Rodeo - DeKalb Shrine Club of Alabama will present the 3rd Annual Shrine Rodeo at the Northeast Alabama Agri-Business Cneter in Rainsville on Friday, March 6 and Saturday, March 7 at 7:30pm. Tickets will only be sold at the door. Sponsorships and program advertising are now available. For more information, please call (256) 717-6263. March 10, DeKalb County Democratic Club The DeKalb County Democrats will hold their March meeting on Tuesday,
March 10 at 7pm with food and socializing starting at 6pm. These times are new! The meeting will be held at the county Democratic headquarters at 205 Gault Avenue North in Fort Payne. Friends and visitors are welcome! March 26, DeKalb County Senior Prom - The DeKalb County Council on Aging will host a senior prom "Sock Hop" on March 26 from 5 pm to 8 pm at the Wills Valley Rec. Center. Feel free to dress casual or in 50s style with poodle
skirts and saddles shoes, whatever makes you want to dance the night away! If you don't want to dance, come just to eat, fellowship, and listen to some amazing music. This event is for DeKalb County residents only, but please register by March 10. April 25, First State Bank 5K - The 9th Annual First State Bank will be held on Saturday, April 25 at 8 am at DeKalb Lake in Sylvania. The event will raise funds for Relay for Life.
KIWANIS CLUB
Marshall Henderson, pastor of Fort Payne First Baptist Church, was the speaker at last week's Kiwanis Club meeting. He is pictured here with Kiwanis Club member Trey O'Daniel.
4
FRIDAY — FEBRUARY 28, 2020
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
BUSINESS
Torch
Talk
with Marla & Marshall
EVERY FRIDAY ON FACEBOOK
YARDWORX LAWN CARE & LANDSCAPING
AMY THRASH ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
amy@southerntorch.com
256-630-9094
Office: 256.638.4040 Cell: 256.996.0460
yardworxal@gmail.com
W.T. Wilson
ADVERTISE HERE FOR JUST 12.50
Hometown banking, wherever you are!
Southern Gold & Silver QUALITY JEWELRY
226 Gault Ave. N • Fort Payne, AL 35967 Phone: 256-845-5680 Fax: 256-845-5165
James Allensworth • allensworthgold@aol.com
1706 Glenn Blvd., Suite 4
Fort Payne, AL 35968 • (256) 997-7591
Woody’s
Steak & Seafood
JODI SKINNER
Tuesday-Thursday — 10:30-7 Friday & Saturday — 10:30-8 Sunday — 11-4:30
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
jodi@southerntorch.com
105 Co. Rd. 89 in Fort Payne / Dogtown
Office: 256.259.2341 Cell: 256.735.3699
256-364-2221
Scottsboro
(256) 259-2211
ADVERTISE HERE FOR JUST 12.50
/
THE FISHERMEN SOUTHERN GOSPEL QUARTET
B. ANNETTE LITTLE
For bookings call: Glenn Smith (256) 572-6146 Check us out on Facebook
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE beverlyannette@southerntorch.com Office: 256.259.2341 Cell: 256.653.7099
Commission Recognizes Leadership DeKalb
LEGALS
nette Jolley, deceased
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA
NOTICE TO FILE CLAIMS
Case No.: 2019-314 IN RE: The Estate of Kathy Carol Hall Moss, deceased NOTICE TO FILE CLAIMS
By Marla Jones, Managing Editor • marla@southerntorch.com DeKALB COUNTY, Ala. — At this week's meeting of the DeKalb County Commission, Grace Presbyterian Church senior pastor Dave Latham of Leadership DeKalb addressed the Commission. Leadership DeKalb has 17 leadership participants this year. Latham discussed the class projects for this year, including an April 4 "DeKalb Cares Day," a countywide day of service to help the Animal Adoption Center, CASA, Father's House, The Gathering Place, Landmarks of DeKalb County, and litter pickup throughout the County. In other business, the Commission awarded a bid for seal treatment in District 1 to Corrective Asphalt Materials in the amount of $76,551. Michael Posey of the DeKalb County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) requested a travel expense for Eric Middlebrooks for the Emergency Management Basic Academy. The EMA also accepted a bid for a diesel utility vehicle in the amount of $13,675 to Boykin Tractor. The DeKalb County Sheriff's Office requested the hire of Justin Bailey as a full-time corrections officer to replace Sam Young. The next meeting of the DeKalb County Commission will be held on Tuesday, March 10 at 10am.
TAKE NOTICE that Letters of Administration having been grated to RANDY LEE COOTS, as Personal Representative of the Estate of KATHY CAROL HALL MOSS, deceased, on the 14th day of November 2019, 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. Randy Lee Coots, Personal Representative of the Estate of Kathy Carol Hall Moss, deceased To be published: February 14, February 21, and February 28
LEGALS IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No.: 2020-41 IN RE: The Estate of Lillie Jean-
Letters Testamentary on the Estate of LILLIE JEANNETTE JOLLEY, deceased, having been granted to the undersigned on the 14th day of February, 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.
KANDIELAND DAY CARE CEN ER
256.638.4848
333 DILBECK RD IN RAINSVILLE
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. Richard L. Ferguson Sr., Personal Representative of the Estate of Richard M. Ferguson Jr., deceased To be published: February 21, February 28, and March 6
LEGALS
SHERRY DENTON BUCKELEW, Personal Representative
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA
To be published: February 21, February 28, and March 6
Case No.: 2020-44
LEGALS IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No.: 2020-42 IN RE: The Estate of Richard M. Ferguson Jr., deceased NOTICE TO FILE CLAIMS TAKE NOTICE that Letters of Administration having been grated to RICHARD L. FERGUSON SR., as Personal Representative of the Estate of RICHARD M. FERGUSON JR., deceased, on the 13th day of February 2020, by the Honorable
Terrell Chiropractic, LLC OPEN SIX DAYS A WEEK!
Dr. Robert Terrell Dr. Jeff Parker Mon-Wed Thu-Fri Saturday 8:30-5:30 8:30-5:30 8:30-12
65 McCurdy Ave S, Rainsville, AL 35986 Phone: (256) 638-9393 • Fax: (256) 638-9395
IN RE: The Estate of Alma Ruth Parmer, deceased NOTICE TO FILE CLAIMS TAKE NOTICE that Letters of Administration with Will Annexed having been granted to LEAH M. MCELMOYL, as Personal Representative of the Estate of ALMA RUTH PARMER, deceased, on the 20th day of February 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. LEAH M. MCELMOYL, Personal Representative of the Estate of ALMA RUTH PARMER, deceased To be published: February 28, March 6, and March 13
FRIDAY — FEBRUARY 28, 2020
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
5
POLITICS
COUNCIL FROM PAGE 1
(President) and Austin Keel (Reporter). Rainsville Fire Department Training Officer, Jason Brannan recognized Sierra Franks and Catlin Phillips, two students from the Fire Science Program. The program has six students who will compete at State in April. The Council discussed the fees and enforcement of Resolution 5-21-96, which pertains to the cutting of city streets for utility companies or individuals It was discussed prior to cutting, a permit would be issued and either a bond or set amount of money will be put up to guarantee streets would be back to original condition. After much decision, the council opted to give city attorney, Nikki Scott time to pursue options and to present at the next council meeting. In other business, the Rainsville City Council: • Approved Resolution 02-20-2020 to surplus a printer from the Rainsville Public Library • Approved the purchase of two new computers at the Rainsville Public Library in the amount of $943 with funds provided by the DeKalb County Commission • Approved the bid by Boozer Construction for repairs at the intersection of Garrett Street and Chavies Road • Approved the installation of street light and pole at the intersection of Deer Street and Scott Avenue in the amount of $300 • Approved sponsorship for Hunting Expo in the amount of $500 • Accepted the resignation of Jazmine Lawhorn as a part-time dispatcher • Approved the posting for a part-time dispatcher until March 18 The Rainsville City Council will put out for bids for the paving projects for 2020. This includes resurfacing of Church Street, White Street, Grimes Street and a portion of Northside Drive. Bids will be opened on April 15 at 12 pm at the Rainsville City Council Chambers. The next meeting of the Rainsville City Council will be at 5 pm on Monday, March 2 with a work session beginning at 4:15 pm.
Inside The Statehouse By Steve Flowers Political Columnist MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Folks, our primaries are next week! On the Democratic side, the Presidential Preference Primary will be the big show and will be interesting to watch. On the right, the Republican Primary for the U.S. Senate seat will be the marquee event. In addition to the Senate Race, you have two open Republican Congressional Seats in the First and Second Districts. You also have some important statewide Supreme Court and Appellate Court races on the ballot. Incumbent Supreme Court Justice Greg Shaw and Shelby County State Senator Cam Ward, are both running to be the Republican nominee for the Associate Justice of the Supreme Court, place number one. Shaw is one of the most introverted, dignified people that ever ran for statewide office. He takes his role as a monk-like nontalking judge to heart. He has not and will not campaign. He thinks it is beneath the jurist to talk to people, much less campaign or shake hands. On the other hand, Senator Cam Ward is the ultimate people person and campaigner. Ward has worked the state from one end to the other, campaigning in every nook and cranny and county. He has outworked Shaw 20 to 1. However, ultimately in today’s statewide politics, it all boils down to money. Ninety-five percent of the people who vote next Tuesday will not decide or think about who they are going to vote for until next week. Then after they vote and elect one of them, they will not be able to tell you who they voted for or for that matter who is on the Supreme Court. This one will be interesting and probably close. Whoever
•
" "
gets the most votes Tuesday will be sworn in for a six-year term in January. Winning the GOP nomination for a judgeship in Alabama is tantamount to election in the Heart of Dixie. Two Jefferson/Shelby metro candidates are vying for a seat on the Court of Civil Appeals. State Representative Matt Fridy and Phillip Bahakel are vying for place number 2 on the Civil Appeals Court. The presiding Judge of the Court of Criminal Appeals, Mary Windom, should waltz to re-election. However, Criminal Appeals Judge Beth Kellum, who has done an excellent job, could have a tougher race with two opponents. PSC President Twinkle Andress Cavanaugh has an also-ran liberal candidate in her race. The winners of the March 3 GOP Primary or runoff on March 31 will win the 1st and 2nd congressional districts and go to Washington for two years. The fist district Mobile/Baldwin race is the best and most up in the air. It is a three-man race between former State Senator Bill Hightower, Mobile County Commissioner Jerry Carl, and Mobile State Representative Chris Pringle. It will be interesting to see which two make the March 31 runoff. Dothan businessman Jeff Coleman is the front runner to win the open 2nd Congressional district seat. The question is can he win without a runoff. It may be difficult with seven people in the race. He will
ultimately win. As earlier stated the GOP contest for the U.S. Senate is the marquee event on the scene next week. Jeff Sessions is the favorite to win back his seat. However, it will not be a cakewalk. It is doubtful he can win without a runoff. It is a spirited and close race between Coach Tommy Tuberville and Congressman Bradley Byrne to get into the runoff with Sessions. Former Chief Justice Roy Moore has done very little campaigning and will probably get less than 10% of the vote. All indications point to former Vice President Joe Biden winning our Democratic Presidential Primary. Over 75% of the votes cast in our Alabama Democratic Primary will be by African American voters, and Biden has received overwhelming endorsements from almost all of the African American hierarchy and leadership groups in the State. In addition, the two leading African American Democratic Leaders, Congresswoman Terri Sewell and Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin, have endorsed Biden. However, Joe Reed’s powerful Alabama Democratic Conference has endorsed former New York Mayor Mike Bloomberg. It will be interesting to see how Bloomberg fares in Alabama next Tuesday. He has spent a lot of money. You will see an initiative on the ballot that will ask you if you want to make the State School Board appointed rather than elected. Gov. Kay Ivey is promoting a “yes� vote. She believes an appointed Board is better for education. She would appoint the State School Board if approved. Y’all don’t forget to vote.
Use ToneKoteÂŽ liquid supplement to treat allergies, stop shedding, eliminate doggy odor and provide a warm winter coat. Hometown Feed & Seed. (www.kennelvax.com)
Brewer Announces Bid for Re-Election By Southern Torch Staff FORT PAYNE, Ala. — Last week, Councilperson Lynn Locklear Brewer announced her intention to seek a second term on the Fort Payne City Council. Brewer is a DeKalb County native and has served on the Council since 2016, where she co-chairs Fort Payne Parks and Recreation, City Hall, and the Fort Payne Fire Department. She also serves on the board of directors at DC Gas, the Foundation Board of Northeast Alabama Community College, and is a member of the Fort Payne Rotary. Brewer has a degree in fine arts/arts education from Auburn University. She is a past member of The Downtown Merchants Association and the Big Wills Arts Council. She also served as an advisor for Fort Payne's Culinary School and donates her time as an artist painting backdrops for the Children's Advocacy Center's annual play. Brewer remains
(Submitted Photo) committed to pro-business principles. She was instrumental in the designation of Fort Payne as a Main Street Town, which resulted in over $2 million in private improvements and real estate transactions from over a dozen investors. Brewer operates two businesses in the City of Fort Payne; The Big Mill Antiques and Artisans and the casual dining restaurant, Vintage 1889. Brewer is married to Dr. Steve Brewer, and between them have four children and four grandchildren. They are members of the St. Phillips Episcopal Church. The City of Fort Payne's municipal elections will be held on Tuesday, August 25, 2020.
Joseph K. McNew, D.V.M • Linda Galbraith, D.V.M. • Jessica Jones, D.V.M.
Your loyal companion, Our dedicated focus!
Ider Discount Drugs
@
“Some people say when they take office, they will hit the ground running. But I am not waiting until I am elected to go to work, I am already working for you.�
 �
6
FRIDAY — FEBRUARY 28, 2020
THE SOUTHERN TORCHT
DEATH NOTICES W.T. WILSON
Lanell R. Leithhauser - 91 of Fort Payne, passed away on Wednesday, February 19. Funeral services were held at 1pm on Monday, February 24 at W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with burial in Liberty Hill Cemetery in Adamsburg.
Charles D. Liles - 86 of Shiloh, passed away on Wednesday, February 19. Funeral services were held at 1pm on Saturday, February 22 at W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with burial in Green’s Chapel Cemetery.
Howard Lee Brewer - 90, passed away on Thursday, February 20. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Sunday, February 23 at W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with burial in Tenbroeck Cemetery.
Christopher John Schreij, Jr. - 47 of Boaz, passed away on Sunday, February 23. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Sandra Gail Green - 79 of Albertville, passed away on Monday, February 24. Visitation only will be held on Wednesday, February 26 at W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel.
KERBY Robbie Hairston Bass - 56 of Pisgah, passed away on Friday, February 21. Funeral services were held at 1pm on Monday, February 24 at Kerby Funeral Home Chapel with burial in Macklin Cemetery. David Lee Foot Sr. - 66 of Pisgah, passed away on Sunday,
Burt Funeral H omes
since 1982
since 1969
 �
@
Traditional funeral, cremation and monument services
February 23. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Wednesday, February 26 at Kerby Funeral Home Chapel with burial in Pace Cemetery. Emily Rae Denham - 19 of Dutton, passed away on Monday, February 24. Funeral services will be held at 11am on Friday, February 28 at Kerby Funeral Home Chapel with burial in Pleasant View Cemetery.
CORNER STONE Gail Diann Tomaschefsky - 71 of Henagar, passed away on Tuesday, February 18. No formal services are planned. EmmaMae Rosalyn Talley - infant, passed away on Saturday, February 22. A graveside service was held at
1:30pm on Sunday, February 23 at Jacob’s Ladder. Glenda Diane Waddell - 69 of Trenton, Ga., passed away on Sunday, February 23. Funeral services will be held at 3pm on Saturday, February 29 at New Salem Baptist Church in Rising Fawn, Ga.
RAINSVILLE Sharon Browder Sissom - 59 of Fort Payne, passed away on Wednesday, February 19. Funeral services were held at 4pm on Thursday, February 20 at Rainsville Funeral Home Parlor with burial in Mountain View Memory Gardens. Styles Rome Sanders - infant, passed away on Thursday, February 20. A private memorial service will be held at a later date.
Sandy Creek Apartments 159 George Wallace Dr. Rainsville, AL 35986 Family Households 1 and 2 Bedroom Apartments Accessible Units Rent is based on income ~ Section 8 Accepted Rental Assistance Available on a Limited Basis
Please Call: (1) 256-638-6959 TDD/TYY #: 800-548-2546 This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer
Jennifer Dianne Goins - 47 of Higdon, passed away on Friday, February 21. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Thursday, February 27 at Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel with burial in Corinth Cemetery. Marlon “Tubby� Farmer - 67 of Section, passed away on Friday, February 21. A graveside service was held on Sunday, February 23 at 2pm at Old Sardis Holiness Church Cemetery. Elaine Johnson - 73 of Fyffe, passed away on Saturday, February 22. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Wednesday, February 26 at Rainsville Funeral Home with burial in Corinth Cemetery. Cody Martin - 20 of Rainsville, passed away on Monday, February 24. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Friday, February 28 at Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel with burial in Town Creek Cemetery.
WILSON Nelson Waldrop - 71 of Fort Payne, passed away on Friday, February 21. Funeral services were held at 2pm at Monday, February 24 at Wilson Funeral Home with burial in Fischer Cemetery. Morris Simpson - 92 of Fort Payne, passed away on Saturday, February 22. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Tuesday, February 25 at Wilson Funeral Home with burial in Glenwood Cemetery. Mazie Canter Bryant - 78 of Fort Payne, passed away on Monday, February 24. No services are planned at this time.
BURT Leeman V. Dunn - 89 of Fort Payne, passed away on Tuesday, February 25. Funeral services will be held at 1pm on Saturday, February 29 at Burt Chapel-Fort Payne with burial following in Stewart Cemetery.
FRIDAY — FEBRUARY 28, 2020
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
1-833-266-7847
CALL FOR RATES & AVAILABLITY 20046 AL Highway 75 • Henagar, AL 35978 Rental available to ALL 50 STATES! Construction equipment with 10-hour workdays AND storage container rental!
WE OFFER: Backhoes, Bulldozers, Manlifts, Excavators, Scissor Lifts and More!
COMPETITIVE PRICING NATIONWIDE REPAIR FLEXIBLE DELIVERY OPTIONS SERVING YOU IN THREE LOCATIONS
HENAGAR, FORT PAYNE & SCOTTSBORO
7
8
FRIDAY — FEBRUARY 28, 2020
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
Cornerstone Wins First State Championship
(Ann Nelson Photography)
By Marla Jones Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com OXFORD, Ala. — The
Cornerstone Christian Academy Lady Eagles won the Alabama Christian Athletic Association Division State Basketball Championship on
Saturday, February 22. This is the first varsity sport State Championship in Cornerstone school history. Sophomore, Laura
Beth Wells was awarded Tournament MVP and voted to the All-State Team. Wells had a total of 43 points for the tournament.
Senior, Kelly Nelson was voted to the All-State Team. For the tournament, she had a double-double on both days, with a total of 25 points and 24 rebounds.
The Cornerstone Lady Eagles are coached by Athletic Director Heather Harrison and Lori Culpepper.
STATE ROUND BOUND
(All Photos by Marla Jones | Southern Torch)
Collinsville 52, G.W. Long 39
By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Collinsville’s Lady Panthers (28-3) opened its Class 2A semifinal game with five 3-point goals Monday afternoon and then turned to its defense to G.W. Long to just two points in the third quarter en route to a 52-39 win. The victory sends Coach Jon Tide more’s team into the Class 2A state finals Friday morning at 9 a.m.. The game opened Class 2A play in the at the
98th AHSAA State Basketball Championships at the BJCC Legacy Arena Monday. Maggie McKinney, Hadley Hamilton and Brittany Rivera combined with two 3-points each to since 6-f-10 for the game. The quick start opened up quick 12-2 lead and forced Coach Jody Hughes’ Rebels (26-6) to face an uphill battle the rest of the way. Rivera led Collinsville with 12 points – sinking all five shots from the field. Tyla Tatum and Hamilton added 10 points each. Hamilton grabbed team-high nine rebounds, Rivera and Tatum had seven each.
Hamilton also had four assists. Makenna Long led the Rebels with 17 points and Mary Beth Long had eight. Her six rebounds led G.W. Long, which lost the rebound battle 34-21. The win sends Collinsville into its first-ever state girls’ basketball final. G.W. Long, which won the Class 2A state volleyball title last fall and the Class 2A state softball crown last spring, has no reached the state semifinals in basketball two years in a row. The Lady Panthers play Cold Springs on Friday, February 28 at 9am.
FRIDAY — FEBRUARY 28, 2020
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
CONGRATULATIONS Collinsville Lady Panthers
9
FROM MAYOR JOHNNY TRAFFANSEDT AND COUNCIL MEMBERS: KATHY JELKS, DONNA JONES, DAVID BOWEN, JANET OSBORN & JEFF CHANDLER
Collinsville Health Care and Rehab
James Coker, Administrator Candace Coker, RN, DON 685 North Valley Ave. P.O. Box 310 Collinsville, AL 35961 256-524-2117 Fax: 256-524-2035
Short Term Rehab Care or Long Term Care, Physical Therapy, Speech Therapy, and Occupational Therapy
Best of Luck to the Collinsville Panthers! Telephone Banking 256-659-4800
Internet Banking www.LibertyBankAL.com
5350 Alabama Hwy 68, Collinsville Phone: 256.524.2161 • Fax: 256.524.2279
588 South Valley Avenue • P.O. Box 498 Collinsville, AL 35961 (256) 524-2981
TAX SERVICE JOSEPH LEE COUNTY COMMISSION DISTRICT 1 PAID POLITICAL AD BY JOSEPH LEE • 51 RD. 939, MENTONE, AL 35984
• •   • • • •
10
FRIDAY — FEBRUARY 28, 2020
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
Life is better with you in it. Schedule a potentially lifesaving colonoscopy now. If you are over 45, the American Cancer Society recommends regular colorectal screenings. As a leading cause of cancer death for both men and women in the U.S., a screening can often find colorectal cancer early when it might be easier to treat. Don’t wait, make an appointment today. A colonoscopy could mean more time with the people you love. To make an appointment, call toll-free 866-394-3018.
Why have a colonoscopy?* • Regular screenings can help prevent colorectal cancer. • Polyps can be found and removed before they turn into cancer. • When found at an early stage, the 5-year survival rate is about 90%.
200 Medical Center Drive Fort Payne, AL 35968 Jeffrey Cole, M.D. Board-Certified General Surgeon
Steve Isbell, M.D. Board-Certified General Surgeon
Jeffrey Thompson, M.D. Board-Certified General Surgeon
*Information from Cancer.org – The American Cancer Society. Talk with your doctor about your own health and your family history so that you can choose the best screening plan for you. Independent Members of the Medical Staff at DeKalb Regional Medical Center. • Patient results may vary. Consult your physician about the benefits and risks of any surgical procedure or treatment.