The Southern Torch — Vol. 7, No. 12

THE SOUTHERN TORCH / FRIDAY, MARCH 19, 2021 / VOL. 7, NO. 12 / $1.00

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>> Fyffe and Sylvania Advance after Big Wins in the AHSAA State Semifinals

>> Inside The Statehouse: Gambling & Budgets Remain Priority for Legislature

>> Alabama Expands Eligibility for COVID-19 Vaccines >> Our Business Spotlight

Renovations Coming to FP Police Dept.

Rainsville Restructures Ag Center Loan

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com FORT PAYNE, Ala. — (Full Video on southerntorch.com) The Fort Payne City Council held its regularly scheduled meeting Monday, March 16 via the online platform.

In-person meetings of the Fort Payne Council will begin at the first meeting of April.

The Council discussed the preliminary plans for renovations at the Fort Payne Police Department.

Craig Peavy gave an overview of the proposal for the second phase of the Fort Payne Police Department. A feasibility study will be conducted to see the concerns and needs of the Police Department through a series of interviews. They

>> See FP, P4

17 Arrested on Drug-Related Charges in Last 3 Weeks

By Southern Torch Staff admin@southerntorch.com

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com RAINSVILLE, Ala. — (Full Video on southerntorch.com) The Rainsville City Council met on Monday, March 15 for their regularly scheduled meeting.

Brad Green, of Raymond James, addressed the council regarding the Northeast Alabama Agribusiness Center Loan.

Councilmember Bejan Taheri inquired on how much was owed for the Agribusiness Center

at this time. Green advised that roughly $3.49 million is owed presently at the Agribusiness Center. The City has paid approximately $500,000 towards the principal of the loan since the loan was originated.

If refinanced, the interest rate will be lowered to 3%, saving the City around $370,000 in interest and also lowering the payments over the ten-year loan.

Green went on to say that this loan could be made through the City of Rainsville or through the

Public Building Authority (PBA). After discussion, the Council voted to obtain the refinancing through the PBA. The following items were approved by the Council: • Billboard Ordinance- New Ordinance guidelines are nearly completed by City Attorney Nikki Scott Wilson, the council voted to extend the moratorium, which is a temporary prohibition of an activity, for 30 more days.

• Bid out Pest Control Contract - This bid will

proceed. Typically, we are given 60 days to develop a plan, and 3 to 4 years to implement it. As soon as I know something, the people of DeKalb County will also know it.”

In a statement made to the Alabama Daily News, Alabama Department of Finance spokesperson Susan Wilhelm confirmed the following allocations: $2.1 billion for a state

DeKALB COUNTY, Ala. — From the Office of DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden: 17 people have been arrested on drug-related charges by the DeKalb County Sheriff's Office in the last three weeks.

The following people were arrested: • Quandria Deontez Mitchell (30 of Decatur, Ga.): Attempting to Elude, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 1st • Jessie Giddens (23 of Sylvania): Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance, Theft of Property 1st • John David Sycks (24 of Fort Payne): Trafficking in Any Illegal Drug, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance (x3), Illegal Possession of Prescription Drugs, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia • Zachary Tyler Croft (26 of Sylvania): Trafficking in Any Illegal Drug, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance (x3), Illegal Possession of Prescription Drugs, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia • Adam Christopher

>> See PLAN, P4

>> See CRIME, P6

be for all city buildings and a one-year contract.

The closed bids will be opened on April 19 at 4 pm.

• Upgraded the computer at the Public Works Department • Purchased a grill for the Police Department in the amount of $799 • Purchased a laptop for the Fire Department in the amount of $500 • Approved repair on Wilson Street for Headwalls, where ditches have washed out; bid was awarded to Boozer

>> See LOAN, P2

DeKalb to Receive $13M from Stimulus Package

By Zach Hester Reporter zach@southerntorch.com

DeKalb County is expected to receive almost $14 million from the American Rescue Plan signed by President Biden last week. (monkeyviral.com)

DeKALB COUNTY, Ala. — As part of the new American Rescue Plan signed by President Biden last week, the State of Alabama is expected to receive just over $4 billion in direct aid as part of the almost $2 trillion package.

Locally, DeKalb County will receive $13.87 million from the

package as part of the $350 billion allocated to local and state governments to assist municipalities devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic. All funds acquired by the American Rescue Plan must be spent by 2024.

“We haven’t gotten many details, but we’re on top of it,” said DeKalb County Commission President Ricky Harcrow.

“As quick as they give us some direction, we can

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FRIDAY — MARCH 19, 2021

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

@JACKSONBLAZEAL

NACC Pays Tribute to Theatre Dept. Founder LOAN

By Southern Torch Staff admin@southerntorch.com POWELL, Ala. — Ann Everett, founder of the Northeast Alabama Community College theatre, passed away on Tuesday, March 2, 2021.

Mrs. Everett was 81 years old.

Ann Everett was the driving force behind the Northeast Alabama Community College (NACC) Theatre Department, establishing the department and serving as director of the successful program for 21 years. Her legacy at Northeast has impacted countless individuals and will continue to influence the community for generations to come.

"Northeast lost a great friend and contributor with the passing of Mrs. Ann Everett,” remembers NACC President Dr. David

Campbell.” “In fact, her vision, talent, and plain hard work led to the founding of our renowned Theater Department. She used her magic to put on wonderful plays at the college – then on a shoestring budget. She found such great talent in our area, talent that we ourselves did not know we had.”

Current NACC Director of Theatre Kayleigh Smith reflected on her experience with Mrs. Everett, saying, “Ann Everett built a legacy here

at the NACC Theatre. She started a program that has touched so many lives over the years, including mine. I auditioned for Ann over 20 years ago, having no clue that I would eventually follow in her footsteps as Director of Theatre. She cast me in my very first production at NACC—something that changed my life forever! I will forever be grateful for the incredible Ann Everett.”

Dr. Campbell continued, “Her efforts, supported by former

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President Charles Pendley, led to our wonderful theater building. Other contributors to the NACC Theatre Department, such as former Director Mark Webb and current Director Kayleigh Smith, have carried us to all new heights. I am very saddened personally by her passing. She was a warm and encouraging person who made a difference in our world."

Aside from her contributions to and involvement in the NACC Theatre Department, Mrs. Everett was a member of Randall’s Chapel United Methodist Church and was involved in many other community organizations. In lieu of flowers, Mrs. Everett’s family has requested donations be made to the NACC Foundation or to the Alzheimer’s Association.

FROM PAGE 1

Construction in the amount between $15,000-$25,000 • Appointed Tina Hosch to the Zoning Board to replace Zane Mitchell • Approved Resolution 03-15-2021, to Surplus a 2012 Ford Expedition from the Rainsville Fire Department.

• Empowered Mayor Lingerfelt to sign the AMRV Grant application for the Wastewater Treatment Plant. The grant is for $10,000 to begin the first phase of improvements,

The following Personal Changes were approved: • Hired Greg Welsh as a full-time CDL Driver at the Sanitation Department at $14.63 per hour • Hired Austin Peppers as a Part-Time Patrolman at $14.97 per hour • Hire Donna Johnson as Temporary Magistratate for Court at a rate of $40 per court session The next meeting of the Rainsville City Council will be on April 5, 2021. The Work Session will begin at 4:00. The Regular Meeting will begin at 4:30.

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FRIDAY — MARCH 19, 2021

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

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COMMUNITY

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SilverSneakers Now Available at Wills Valley Recreation Center

Age is Just a Number

independently and enjoys cooking for her family – sometimes even cooking a full meal before she goes into work as a sub.

Her granddaughter, Amanda Woodall, describes her simply as a "Proverbs 31 woman."

Brown is actively involved in Antioch Baptist Church.

Teachers and students alike are so proud to come in and see Mrs. Mary Lou Brown behind the desk as their sub for the day.

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

FYFFE, Ala. — Age is just a number and Mary Lou Brown easily proves that point.

Brown, who will turn 88 in October, has served as a substitute teacher since 1998 and not even a global pandemic could slow her down.

Brown began working at Fyffe High School in 1984 as a lunchroom cashier, snack store clerk, and even performed some janitorial duties.

She was married to Joel Brown, and they have two children, Larry and Don Brown. Brown has three grandchildren: Amanda Woodall, Tyler Brown, and NeKisha

Mary Lou Brown (left) is pictured with her granddaughter, Amanda Woodall, an elementary school teacher at Fyffe. (Submitted Photo)

Brown. She has five great-granchildren and two great-great granchildren.

That alone should keep her busy, but it

doesn't.

On a daily basis, she can defrost a freezer, mow her yard, and still find time to sub at Fyffe.

Brown still lives

EVENTS Submit your upcoming events to zach@southerntorch.com to be featured in next week's edition!

March 19, Jess Goggans at Limon's - Jess Goggans will perform acoustic on Friday, March 19 at 6 p.m. for FREE at Limon's! Come out and enjoy some great food and music!

March 20, Rainsville Chamber Scholarship Golf Tournament - The Rainsville Chamber of Commerce will host their annual Scholarship Golf Tournament on Saturday, March 20 at 8 a.m. at the Rainsville Golf & Country Club.

For more information about participation,

please contact the Rainsville Chamber of Commerce for registration at (256) 638-7800.

March 20-21, Alabama Little Britches Rodeo Alabama Little Britches Rodeo will be held on Saturday, March 20 and Sunday, March 21 beginning at 6 p.m. each night at the Northeast Alabama Agri-Business Center.

March 20, FPMB Mattress Fundraiser - The first annual Fort Payne High School Marching Band Mattress Fundraiser

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will be held on Saturday, March 20 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.!

Name-brand mattresses, including Simmons, BeautyRest, and TheraPedic, will be featured for up to 40% off retail price. All profits directly support the Fort Payne band.

March 21, Guest Baptist Church Singing - A special singing will be held at Guest Baptist Church on Sunday, March 21 at 6 p.m. with Bloodline Albertville as the featured singers.

March 22, DeKalb Co. Republican Women Meeting - The DeKalb County Republican Women will meet on Monday, March 22 at 6 p.m. on the 2nd floor of the DeKalb County Activities Building.

Greg Cook, a candidate for the Alabama Supreme Court, will be the guest speaker. For more information, please contact Dana Greeson at (256) 996-1267.

March 27, Meandering

SOUTHERN TORCH • 98-3 WILD COUNTRY • 101-7 THE TORCH Southern Torch (USPS Periodicals #19790) is published each Friday by Southern Marla Jones, Managing Editor/Sports Torch, Inc. 203 Main Street E, Rainsville, Brian Anderson, Radio Operations Manager Ala. 35986. POSTMASTER: Send address Zach Hester, Art Director/Reporter changes to Southern Torch, P.O. Box 614, Amy Thrash, Account Executive Rainsville, Ala. 35986-0614.

Staff:

Eloise Smith, General Manager

Jenna Sue Payne, Account Executive Teresa Smith, Traffic Director

Dylan Smith, Jackson Blaze Managing Editor Lindsey Jones, Accounting Marshall Stiefel, Distribution Manager

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Moonlight Paddle Trip - DeSoto State Park will host the "Meandering Moonlight Paddle Trip" on Saturday, March 27 at 7 p.m. on the scenic Little River. The trip will begin at the DeSoto Falls Picnic Area (Miller's Bend Paddle Shack) and costs $40 for a single kayak rental. Two-person kayaks are available for $50. To register, please email paige. norsworthy@dcnr. alabama.gov.

April 9, Celebrate Local Authors - The Ider Public Library will host two local authors, Neal Wooten and Jerry Ellis, on Friday, April 9 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

By Southern Torch Staff • admin@southerntorch.com FORT PAYNE, Ala. — Fort Payne Parks and Recreation is partnering with Tivity Health to provide SilverSneakers program and Prime.

SilverSneakers is the nation’s leading community fitness program designed exclusively for older adults. There are more than 14.5 million people eligible for the SilverSneakers benefit through the nation’s leading Medicare Advantage health plans, Medicare Supplement carriers, and group retiree plans. For those members, the benefit is offered at no additional cost.

Prime Fitness is a commercial fitness program and is available to individuals which inspires participants to take charge of their own health and fitness, stay motivated and active. Prime Fitness is available to members of participating health plans and employer groups for ages 18+.

“We are excited to offer Silver Sneakers and Prime Fitness to help improve the health and well-being of our members and the community,” said Robin Brothers, Director of Fort Payne Parks and Recreation.

Any increase in physical activity levels can improve overall health. According to federal physical activity guidelines, American adults should try to accumulate 2.5 hours per week of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity or 1.25 hours of vigorous activity. Physical activity can also mitigate health-related risks and improve the quality of life for those who already have chronic conditions.

To learn more about Tivity Health or to check your eligibility, visit www.tivityhealth.com.

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We now offer COVID-19 testing, billed to insurance, Medicaid, Medicare, and some commercial plans. Otherwise $30 per test.

COVID-19 Vaccines Available Soon! *Will be advertised when available*

Kilgore Express Pharmacy North Open Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

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FRIDAY — MARCH 19, 2021

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

BUSINESS

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Southern Gold and Silver is located at 1706 Glenn Blvd. in Fort Payne, Ala.! Give them a call at (256) 997-7591 or visit their Facebook at facebook.com/SouthernGoldSilverJewelry!

THE FISHERMEN SOUTHERN GOSPEL QUARTET

ADVERTISE HERE FOR JUST 12.50 LEGALS IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No.: 2021-13 IN RE: The Estate of Roger Dale Burt, deceased NOTICE TO FILE CLAIMS TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary having been granted to DOREEN CUSHEN, as Personal Representative of the Estate of ROGER DALE BURT, deceased, on the 11th day of February 2021, 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: March 5, March 12, March 19

LEGALS IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No.: 2021-93 IN RE: THE ESTATE OF SHERMAN M, HUNT, deceased NOTICE TO FILE CLAIMS TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary

having been granted to ANTHONY HUNT, as Personal Representative of the Estate of SHERMAN M. HUNT, deceased, on the 8th day of March 2021, 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: March 12, March 19, March 26

LEGALS IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No.: 2021-43 IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF SMITTY L. WOOD, deceased EXECUTOR'S NOTICE TO FILE CLAIMS Letters of Testamentary on the Estate of SMITTY L. WOOD, Deceased, having been granted to the undersigned on the 8th day of March, 2021, by the 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: March 19, March 26, April 2

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/

Faith

ADPH Extends Vaccine Eligibility

By Zach Hester Reporter zach@southerntorch.com

ALABAMA — On Friday, the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) announced the extension of eligibility for COVID-19 vaccinations across the state.

According to the new guidance, vaccinations for the novel coronavirus will be available to people over the age of 55, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and new groups of frontline workers.

“We have been concerned that many people at high risk and others engaged in close contact work have not been eligible to receive the vaccine yet, but with the additional vaccine

supply we are better able to meet the needs of Alabama residents,” Governor Ivey said.

“Starting March 22, individuals can be assured of receiving the shots they have been patiently waiting to get.”

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

CONSTRUCTION WORKERS

The new groups of frontline workers include critical employees in the following fields: transportation and logistics, waste and wastewater, food service (including restaurant workers), shelter and housing, construction, finance, information technology, communications, energy, legal, media, and public safety

engineers.

In addition to the new groups of frontline workers, people with the following high-risk medical conditions are now eligible: cancer, chronic kidney disease, COPD, heart conditions, solid organ transplant, obesity, pregnancy, sickle cell disease, smoking, diabetes, and other medical conditions determined by your primary care physician.

Alabama veterans of any age can receive a vaccine at several VA locations in Alabama, including Birmingham, Guntersville, Huntsville, and the Shoals.

These new groups will add over 2 million people across the State of Alabama who are eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine from any of the three approved providers.

For more information about how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination, please visit alabamapublichealth. gov.

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FRIDAY — MARCH 19, 2021

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

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POLITICS

FP

FROM PAGE 1 will examine the facilities of the department for asbestos and problem areas with major systems.

This study will take from six to eight weeks to conduct. The council voted on and accepted the proposal.

The following ordinances were brought up for discussion. The Council voted to suspend the rules for immediate consideration and the following were passed: Ordinance 2021-05, which set a speed limit of 15 mph on Mountain Brow Road East.

Ordinance 2021-06 authorizing DeKalbCherokee Gas to convey the property to the City of Centre. This was a parcel of land at the old DC Gas in Centre to be used as a parking facility.

The following Resolutions were approved: • 2021-08, accepting the low bid for CRS-2 liquid asphalt

• 2021-09, accepting the low bid for drainpipe • 2021-10, accepting the low bid for rock/ crushed limestone • 2021-11, accepting the low bid for vehicle and equipment fuel • 2021-12, accepting the low bid for sewer piping materials • 2021-13, accepting the low bid for plant mix and binder • 2021-14, granting a tax abatement to Nucor for $4,812,000 investment The Council had continued discussion regarding the disposition of City-owned land adjacent to the Old Jefferson’s location on Highway 35. The City voted to convey half of the property to DeKalb County Commission, closest to the interstate, for a Tourism Center. The City will maintain the property closest to Jeffersons. The County is to be responsible for compaction and sub-base for building on the property.

The Council also

discussed the disposition of the Coal & Iron Building. The main building is rented out through the first of 2022.

The two back rooms will be available to be rented out at $750 per month plus utilities with a lease to be drawn up by City Attorney, Rocky Watson.

Mayor Brian Baine updated the Council on the date of the Independence Day Celebration. The date will be Thursday, July 1. July 2 will be designated as a rain date.

The Council continued discussion about the purchase of light poles and lights The plan would be for the City to purchase enough decorative poles to cover from 8th Street North to Third Street South. The City can buy up to 10-to-20 a year at a cost of under $15,000 per year before having to bid out for the poles. This would fall as an annual bid and would be done in phases over the next four years.

The Council decided to consider and vote on this

at the next meeting.

Mayor Baine updated the Council that he would be meeting with a possible business to lease the Golf Course.

Bain also spoke on the process of obtaining a grant to demolish the old hospital. City Attorney Watson updated the Council on the legal work to make sure the City is protected.

In new business, the council discussed the purchase of a portable pump to replace the rented one in current use at the Terrapin Hills Lagoon. The rent on the current pump is $25,000, A new pump can be purchased for the price of $41,430. The pump can be used for several locations.

The Council voted to purchase the pump.

The Third Saturday event will be this weekend in Downtown Fort Payne. The event will start at 5 pm and run until 9 pm. • The next meeting of the Fort Payne City

The State of Alabama is expected to receive just over $4 billion in direct aid as part of the almost $2 trillion American Rescue Plan signed by President Biden late last week.

PLAN FROM PAGE 1

relief fund, $951 million to county governments, $417 million for metropolitan cities, $362 million to non-county municipalities, and $192 million for a state capital projects fund. These numbers do not include the direct payments of at least $1,400 to individuals across the state, or monies received by businesses.

Alabama’s largest counties, including Jefferson ($127 million), Mobile ($80.14 million), Madison ($72.32 million), and Montgomery ($43.93 million) are set to receive the most money from the

package. DeKalb’s neighboring counties also received funding from the bill with Jackson County receiving $10.01 million, Marshall County receiving $18.77 million, and Cherokee County receiving just over $5 million.

Last year, the State of Alabama received $1.7 billion in CARES Act funding, which was allocated into ten categories at the request of Governor Kay Ivey (R-Ala), including business aid, education programs, municipalities and counties, hospitals, nursing homes, and other areas that have incurred financial damage from the ongoing pandemic.

INSIDE THE STATEHOUSE

Gambling & Budgets Priority for Legislature

By Steve Flowers steveflowers.us MONTGOMERY, Ala. — The Legislature is at the midway point of the 2021 Regular Legislative Session. They have used 15 days of their allotted 30-day legislative session.

The Senate has been consumed with attempting to pass a constitutional amendment to allow Alabamians the right to vote on whether to have a state lottery along with some casino and sports betting. The Legislature in and of itself cannot authorize this expansion of gambling in the state.

Their only authority is to vote to place it on the ballot in order to give you the opportunity to allow the state to reap the financial windfall now only afforded the Indian Gambling Syndicate.

There was a critical vote in the state Senate last week on the issue.

With it being a constitutional amendment, it required 21 votes. The vote was 19 to 13 in favor, but it lacked the constitutional muster by two votes.

Therefore, the measure could be resurrected.

However, if it is this close in the Senate, it probably does not have the votes for passage in the House of

Representatives.

Polls indicate that it would be approved by a vote of the people, probably with a 70 to 30 plurality, and with a majority of Republicans voting in favor. If it is that popular with the people, you probably are asking why in the world would Senators not vote to allow you to vote on it.

The devil is in the details.

The majority of the casinos would go to the Creek Indian Gambling Syndicate. Some of the 24 Republican Senators balked at that almost total monopoly.

Senator Del Marsh was not the right sponsor or frontman for the constitutional amendment. He is not totally trusted, especially by the 10 Democrats he has consistently run over and ignored for years while he was President Pro Tem of the Senate.

Marsh is also perceived as a pawn of the Indian Gambling Syndicate. He is no longer Pro Tem, so nobody is scared of him.

A setting sun sets off very little heat. He is not running for reelection for his Anniston-based district because he could not be reelected. In his last race in 2018, he spent close to $480,000 to his unknown opponent’s $15,000 and only garnered 52% of the vote. That does not portend well for reelection.

Governor Kay Ivey needs to come out openly and strongly for the measure and make it her issue and her legacy.

It may need to be done in a Special Session later this year. Even then, it will be a tough sell to get through the Senate and then the House.

Alabama is the Heart of the Bible Belt. If Alabama is the Bible Belt, then the area of Alabama, north of Birmingham and all the way to the Tennessee line is the buckle. There are not any casinos in North Alabama, only churches, and most of the churchgoers are

Church of Christ or Baptist. They did not allow the sale of alcohol in most of these counties until a few years ago.

Every state senator in that area is a Republican and all of them voted no, including Gudger of Cullman, Givhan of Huntsville, Butler of Huntsville, Stutts of Florence, and Scofield of Sand Mountain. You can probably bet your bottom dollar that the preachers encouraged their parishioners to contact their senators on Sunday before the vote last Tuesday. You may see the legislature address a simple lottery.

It may not be a glamorous event in the legislative process, however, the beginning of the most important and imperative accomplishment occurred last week when the General Fund Budget passed the Alabama House of Representatives. The House approved a $2.4 billion dollar budget shepherded by the Ways

and Means Chairman Steve Clouse (R-Ozark).

The budget includes a 2% raise for state employees. This raise would amount to an $867 per year raise for a state worker making the median salary of $43,346.

The budget includes an increase in funding for the Bureau of Pardons and Paroles.

Other agencies seeing increases in the budget are the Department of Mental Health at 6.7%, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency will see 7.9% increase, mostly for upgrading the state’s driver license system.

Overall, the budget is 3.3% higher than last year’s, which is amazing after a year of COVID-19.

It now moves on to the Senate, which more than likely will concur with few changes.

See you next week.

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FRIDAY — MARCH 19, 2021

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

CRIME

CRIME FROM PAGE 1

Tomlin (29 of Valley Head): DUI Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance (x2), Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia • John Daniel Towns (35 of Albertville): Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia • Max Leigh Blair (38 of Boaz): Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd • Marc Anthony Love (35 of Collinsville): Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance (x2), Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia • Devon Leigh Roberts (41 of Fort Payne): Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance (x2), Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

• Andre Ladon Orr (48 of Fort Payne): Trafficking in Any Illegal Drug, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia • Christopher Emanuel Clayton (24 of COllinsville): Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia • Jessie Dean Steck (24 of Fort Payne): Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia • April Belinda Wiggins (44 of Gadsden): Trafficking in Any Illegal Drug, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance (x2), Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Contempt of Court • Octavius Javar Nash (41 of Gadsden): Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of

Drug Paraphernalia, Contempt of Court • Gary William Waldo (38 of Fort Payne): Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia • John David Sycks (24 of Fort Payne): Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia • Mary Guffey Subias (30 of Clayton): Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia "I want to say how proud I am of all law enforcement in DeKalb County for your hard work and dedication to keep our communities safe," said DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden. "Winning the war on drugs isn't easy, but this is just one more step closer."

Full stories for each arrest can be found at southerntorch.com.

RPD Arrests 6 in Citywide Saturation

By Southern Torch Staff admin@southerntorch.com RAINSVILLE, Ala. — According to Rainsville Police Chief Michael Edmondson: On Thursday, March 11, the Rainsville Police Department completed a citywide saturation that resulted in several arrests.

After receiving complaints about possible drug activity, officers visited a house within the city limits where five were arrested on drug-related charges, and a sixth person was arrested for felony warrants with an outside agency.

The following people were arrested: • Jesse Jones Outlaw: Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia,

Possession of Marijuana 2nd, and Receiving Stolen Property 4th • Terrick Delayne Jones: Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Marijuana 2nd, and Receiving Stolen Property 4th • Adam Wesley Coots: Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia • Kenneth McAnnely: Unlawful Possession of

Controlled Substance (x2), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia • Amanda Matthews: Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia Megan Neikcole Gamble was arrested on Outstanding Felony warrants for Chemical Endangerment of a Child and was transported to the Jackson County Jail.

From the house, officers confiscated methamphetamine, marijuana, illegal steroids, several items used as paraphernalia, and several stolen street signs.

"I am proud of the work of my officers and encourage the citizens of Rainsville to let us know if they see something that needs to be checked out," said Chief Edmondson. "If you see something, say something!"

DEATH NOTICES BURT Mark Alan Freeman - 69, passed away on Sunday, March 13.

Services and burial were held on Thursday, March 18 at Head Springs Cemetery in Valley Head.

CORNER STONE James Thomas

Bradford - 70 of Henagar, died on Tuesday, March 9.

Services were held on Saturday, March 13.

Keith Delano Bailey - 83 of Ider, died on December 4, 2020. Services were held on Saturday, March 20 with military honors at the burial.

Ider Discount Drugs

Katherine “Kathy” Ann Glass - 66 of Henagar, died on Sunday, March 14.

Services were held on Friday, March 19 with burial in Beulah Chapel Cemetery.

Eloise Romans Hicks - 88 of Henagar, died on Tuesday, March 16.

Services and burial were held on Thursday, March 18 at Pea Ridge Cemetery.

WILSON Mildred Wade Hurtt - 94 of Birmingham, formerly of Fort Payne, died on Monday, March 15. Private graveside services will be held at Walker’s Chapel

Cemetery.

RAINSVILLE Bonnie Jean Woods - 80 of Powell, died on Thursday, March 11.

Services and burial were held on Saturday, March 13 at New Bethel Cemetery.

Tommy LeDon Blansit - 49 of Valley Head, died on Tuesday, March 16.

Services were held on Thursday, March 18 with burial at Head Springs Cemetery in Valley Head.

CORNER STONE Mary Rector - 69 of Fort Payne, died on Thursday, March

@

11. Services were held on Tuesday, March 16.

Jan Gunter - 58 of Fyffe, died on Friday, March 12.

Services were held on Sunday, March 14 with burial in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery.

Moselle Ivey Roberts - 97 of Fyffe, died on Friday, March 12. Services were held on Sunday, March 14 with burial in Mt. View Memory Gardens.

Claudius Robert Phillips - 60 of Collinsville, died on Saturday, March 13.

Services were held on Wednesday, March 17 at Guest

Baptist Church with cremation to follow.

Henry Max Coker - 64 of Dawson, died on Saturday, March 13. Services and burial were held on Tuesday, March 16 at Liberty FCM Cemetery in Dawson.

Heather Nicole Frazier - 40 of Geraldine, died on Monday, March 15.

Private services will be held at a later date.

Sara Kindred - 75 of Scottsboro, died on Tuesday, March 16. Services and burial will be held on Friday, March 19 at Sisk Cemetery in Estillfork, Ala.

Burt Funeral H omes

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FP Girls Dominate in Track

By C.M. Samford Sports Contributor

Fort Payne's Ruthie Jones races to the finish line at a track meet last week. (Submitted Photo)

FORT PAYNE, Ala. — The Fort Payne Girls track team competed Saturday in the Vestavia King of the Hill Meet in Birmingham.

The field hosted 25 teams. Team scores were Hoover first 170, Fort Payne 2nd 104, Northridge Tuscaloosa 3rd 94 and Vestavia 4th 46. For the second week in a row, the girls have gone toe to toe with some of the best teams in the southeast. Hoover is one of the best programs in the country.

• Madi Wallace finished 1st in the 100 hurdles at 15.2, 2nd in the 300 hurdles ,and 3rd in the long jump.

• Maggie Groat finished 4 in the 400 at 1:01, 3rd in the 300

hurdles and 4th in the high jump at 4’10 .

• Maddie Jackson 800 6th at 2:29. Jordan Strogov: high jump 5th at 4’10”.

• Brylan Gray placed 7th in discus 80’ 11” and 6th in the shot 31’4” • Reese McCurdy 8th in the 3200.

• Cooper Garrett finished 1st in the javelin 101’8”.

• Bella Weaver placed 4th in Javelin 99’9”.

• Harliegh Sullivan javelin 8th at 87’10”.

• Lennon Ibsen placed 4th in the pole vault with a school record jump of 10’ and 3rd in triple jump at 32’8” • Arianna Johnson placed 7th in the triple at 31’10.

The girls 4x800 of Anahi Barboza,Reese

McCurdy, Aylin Vega and Abigail Vega finished 2nd. The 4x100 relay of Strogov, Johnson Madysin Hill and Sophia Trammell placed 6th, The 4x400 group placed second to Hoover.

Madi Wallace,Maddie Jackson, Ruthie Jones and Maggie Groat took 8 seconds off last weeks time to run 4:07.

That is the 3rd fastest time ever at Fort Payne and puts them within sight of the 30 year old school record of 4:04. The field event girls are really stepping up. We are not where we want to be anywhere but we are headed in the right direction.

Next action will be boys and girls at Cullman on Saturday. Call Coach Penton for comments.

FP Boys BASEBALL ROUNDUP Fall Against Albertville in Track

By C.M. Samford Sports Contributor FORT PAYNE, Ala. — The Fort Payne Boys track team competed at Albertville on Friday in a field of 15 teams.

Albertville finished first with 115 points and Fort Payne in 2nd with 103.

• Owen Pettit first in the 400 at 52.7.

• Patrick Sherrill 3rd at 55.2.

• Arturo Rodriguez finished 1st in the 800 at 2:11 and 4th in the 1600 at 4:51.

• Antonio Sandoval finished 6th. Ian Norman placed 2nd in the 800 at 2:15 and 5th in the 1600.

• Skyler Cody placed 4th in the 300 meter hurdles at 45.5.

• Malik Turner,high jump 3rd,5’6”.

• Kobe King long jump 5th 18’ 6”.

• Darrell Prater had good meet finishing 3rd in discus 111’7” and 2nd in the shot 41’.

The boys 4x100 relay of Caden Dubose, Patrick Sherrill, Skyler Cody and koby King finished 2nd at 46.5. Girls at this meet included Megan Newton ,shot 5th 24’9”.

Madison Wright 400, 5th, Angel Reyes 800, 4th and 1600 6th.

Madison Meadows 8th in the 1600. Michelle Belman 6th in the 800

The Fort Payne Varsity Wildcats defeated the Sylvania Varsity Rams 9-3 over the weekend. (Kristy Gallagher | ASHAA) Bulldogs fell to Gordo in non-region game.

By Marla Jones non-region game, 9-3.

Sports Editor non-region play, 9-2, on Plainview have a 6-5 The Rams have a 5-6 marla@southerntorch.com Saturday, March 13. The record, and the Wildcats record. The Bears will Bulldogs have a 2-8 host the North Sand have a 5-9 record. The DeKALB COUNTY, record. Geraldine will Mountain Bisons on Sylvania Rams will face Ala. — Baseball season is Monday, March 22 at 4. host the Asbury Rams on Fort Payne again at 11 in full swing across • The Fyffe Red Tuesday, March 23 at 6 a.m. on Saturday, March DeKalb County!

Devils defeated p.m.

20 at home.

• The Ider Hornets Crossville, 11-1 in a • The Valley Head • The Collinsville defeated the Gaston non-region game on Tigers lost to the Panthers defeated Bulldogs, 12-2, on Thursday, March 11.

The Sylvania Rams in a Ashville, 13-3.

The Saturday, March 13. The Red Devils have a 8-0 non-region game, 10-6, Hornets boast an overall Panthers boast an record and are ranked on Friday, March 12. The overall 8-6 record. of 14 wins and five first in Class 3A, Area 14. Valley Head Tigers have Collinsville will face the losses. Ider will face The Crossville Lions have a 1-3 record. They will Sardis Lion on Monday, Gaylesville on Saturday, an 2-6 record overall. travel to take on North March 22 at 4:30 p.m. for March 20 at 11 a.m. at Fyffe and Crossville face an away game.

Sand Mountain on Friday home in a non-region off again on Saturday, • The Plainview at 4:30 p.m. game. The Hornets will March 20 at 3 p.m. in Bears defeated the Next week's edition face Sand Rock at 3 p.m.

Crossville. will feature a softball • The Sylvania Rams Section Lions, 7-0, on • The Geraldine roundup! fell to the Fort Payne in a Friday, March 12 in a

HUNTER OF THE WEEK This week's Southern Torch Hunter of the Week is Weston Samples!

He is a second-grader at Pisgah Elementary School. He recently bagged this turkey, which had a 9 1/2 beard with 1-inch spurs. Congratulations!

Submit your hunting photos to marla@southerntorch.com for your chance to be featured as the Southern Torch Hunter of the Week!

8

FRIDAY — MARCH 19, 2021

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Located at the Big Tent next to Walmart in Fort Payne!

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