The Southern Torch — Vol. 6, No. 6

BUY YOUR SWEET A TREAT ON VALENTINE’S DAY!

THE SOUTHERN TORCH / FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2021 / VOL. 7, NO. 6 / $1.00 SPORTS

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Rainsville Approves Sanitation Rate Increase

• Fyffe's Caleb Lyles Signs with UWA • Edwards Selected to Serve on NHSSCA • Upcoming Events in DeKalb County • FP Raises Sewer and Sanitation Rates

POLITICS At Monday night's meeting, the Rainsville City Council voted to raise sanitation rates for the first time since September 6, 2005. (Zach Hester | Southern Torch)

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

BUSINESS • See Who's Featured in the Center of our Business Spotlight! • View our Public Notices

RAINSVILLE, Ala. — The Rainsville City Council held their regularly scheduled meeting on Monday.

During the meeting, the Council voted to approve Resolution 02-01-2021 (B) to increase sanitation rates beginning on April 1.

According to Councilmember Ricky Byrum, sanitation rates in the City of Rainsville have been the same for

the last sixteen years. “It will still be the cheapest service that you’ll have in your household,� stated Byrum.

The rates will increase from $14 for one can to $18 per month. Two cans will be $28 per month, The rate for Seniors and disabled will be $12 with each additional can being $10.

This increase will be equal to what is being charged by the County for sanitation.

Rainsville Police Chief Michael

Edmondson spoke on the Amnesty Period that the City will offer during the month of February. “If you have any outstanding warrants or owe any outstanding fines or costs that you are behind on, please contact the Court Clerk at (256) 638-6334 or the Rainsville Police Department at (256) 638-2157 in order to find out what needs to be done to take care of this,� stated Chief Edmondson.

The Council received an update from Rainsville Fire Chief

Willimac Wright regarding the new air packs that were purchased from a $122,950 grant that the department received.

These tanks will allow firefighters to breathe for thirty minutes in toxic smoke conditions.

Wright also presented to Councilmember Bejan Taheri the stats from the Rainsville Fire and Rescue Squad for the month of January. There were 56 incidents with

By Zach Hester Reporter zach@southerntorch.com

will be able to receive one of the approved vaccines for COVID-19.

The worker groups now eligible for vaccination include first responders, correctional officers, food and agriculture workers, U.S. Postal Service employees, manufacturing workers, grocery store workers, public transit workers, people in the education sector, childcare workers, and those working in the judicial system.

“We have all been frustrated that the supply of vaccine coming from the federal government hasn’t kept up with the demand,�

Governor Ivey said. “To be blunt, we simply haven’t gotten the vaccine that we’ve been promised, and this has created a major backlog of aggravation. Today’s announcement will ensure that as more vaccine is released, we

>> See TRASH, P5

Alabama Expands Vaccine Access

On February 8, more Alabamians, including teachers and those over the age of 65, will be eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. (File Photo)

ALABAMA — Last week, Governor Kay Ivey (R-Ala.) and the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) announced the expansion of vaccine eligibility for new people groups within the State of Alabama.

Beginning on February 8, people over the age of 65 as well as new frontline workers

• READY TO TRAVEL IN 2021? GIVE MARLA A CALL: 256-638-4040

DCSO Arrests 17 on Drug Charges

By Southern Torch Staff admin@southerntorch.com

COMMUNITY

• Gov. Ivey Holds Annual State of the State Address • Inside The Statehouse with Steve Flowers

TWEET

•

•

>> See COVID, P7

DeKALB COUNTY, Ala. — Over the last nine days, 17 have been arrested on drug-related charges in DeKalb County.

The following people were arrested. Full reports can be found at southerntorch.com. • Lashundre Dequan Mosley (22 of Gadsden): Trafficking in Any Illegal Drug, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia • Destinee Warren (24 of Birmingham): Trafficking in Any Illegal Drug, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia • Jessica Susan Parham (33 of Lafayette, Ga.): Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia • Brian Keith Simcox (43 of Hixson, Tenn.): DUI, Promoting Prison Contraband 2nd • Dustin Ray Gilbert (36 of Fyffe): Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance • Melandie Kay Payne (40 of Henagar): Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 1st, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia • Jeremy Andrew Mashburn (42 of Collinsville): Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of

>> See CRIME, P3

SYLVANIA PHARMACY YOUR FRIEND, YOUR DRUGSTORE! Visit our website at www.southerntorch.com for daily news updates and pick up your weekly print edition at news stands every Friday.

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FRIDAY — FEBRUARY 5, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

BUY YOUR SWEET A TREAT ON VALENTINE’S DAY!

@JACKSONBLAZEAL

Bisons Take Fatal Crash in Down the Jackson County Red Devils

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

FYFFE, Ala. — The Class 2A, Number 3 ranked North Sand Mountain Bisons (20-4) defeated the Class 3A Number 2 ranked Fyffe Red Devils (18-5), 68-58 on Monday night.

The score was tied 14-14 to end the first period. North Sand Mountain outscored the Red Devils 35-31 in the second period, to go into the half with the 49-45 advantage.

Ending the third period, the Bison had the 52-45 lead. The Bisons had the ten-point advantage to win the

game. “North Sand Mountain outplayed us for most of the game.

They were missing a key player (Maples) and still outplayed us� stated Fyffe Head Basketball Coach Neil Thrash. “Coach Hicks had his team ready to play and we simply got out hustled.

Russ Marr led the Bison with 25 points.

Derrik Bearden finished the night with 19 points.

Parker Godwin led the Fyffe Red Devils with 21 points. Xavier Works had 12 points for the night. Brody Dalton finished the night with a double-double scoring 10 points and 10 rebounds.

By Marla Jones, Managing Editor • marla@southerntorch.com DUTTON, Ala. — On Sunday, two men were killed in a multiple vehicle crash in Jackson County.

The crash occurred on Alabama Highway 40, two miles north of Dutton, at around 8:30 pm.

Alabama State Troopers confirmed that Ismael Torres, age 60, of Marietta, Georgia was killed when the Honda Accord that he was driving, improperly passed vehicles and hit a Nissan Altima.

The driver of the Altima was Christopher Dane Boyd, age 23 of Pisgah. Boyd was transported to a local hospital where he later died from his injuries.

Brooks Co-Sponsors Immigration Detainer Enforcement Act

By Zach Hester Reporter zach@southerntorch.com

WASHINGTON, D.C. — On Tuesday, Congressman Mo Brooks (R-Ala.) announced his intention to co-sponsor the Immigration Detainer Enforcement Act, brought to the House floor by Rep. Dan Bishop (R-N.C.).

According to Brooks' statement, the bill "provides reimbursement of detention costs to jurisdictions that comply with ICE detainers, indemnifies sheriffs against wrongful detention claims made by third parties, and clarifies the authority of the arresting agency to

detain criminal illegal aliens for a 48-hour period upon the issuance of a detainer."

"Every illegal alien crime on American soil is avoidable," said Brooks.

"With better border security and interior enforcement, America can significantly reduce illegal alien crimes, thus reducing American illegal alien crime victims."

For Brooks' full statement, visit brooks. house.gov.

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FRIDAY — FEBRUARY 5, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

COMMUNITY

FP Raises Sewer & Sanitation Rates

EVENTS Submit your upcoming events to zach@southerntorch.com to be featured in an upcoming edition!

February 5, RTI Job Fair with First Choice Personnel Representatives with First Choice Personnel in Fort Payne will be taking applications at Rainsville Technology Institute, Inc. in Rainsville on Friday, February 5 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.!

Assemblers, injection department, and forklift positions are available for all shifts!

For more information, please call (256) 845-7105.

February 6, Alabama Bass Federation Qualifying Tournament - The Mountain Lakes Chamber of Commerce will host the Qualifying Tournament for the Alabama Bass Federation on Saturday, February 6 beginning at 6 a.m. on Lake Guntersville near Goose Pond Colony.

February 8-9, Loomis Bros. Circus - It's the return of family fun! Come on out and experience a good old-fashioned three-ring circus when Alabama's favorite touring circus brings their big show for 2021 back to Rainsville! Loomis Bros. Circus features over 90 minutes of wonder and excitement with traditional circus act and live music. For tickets and showtimes, please visit loomiscircus.com/ tickets.

February 12, Music by Noojin and Burt at Decks and Docks - Decks and Docks Restaurant will host musicians Brant Noojin and Lee burt for a live acoustic session on Friday, February 12 from 7 p.m. yto 9 p.m. All

ages are welcome.

Decks and Docks Restaurant is located just off the Leesburg bridge. Come check out this great live event, spectacular food, and a great view of Weiss Lake!

February 13, The Peddlers Market Auction - Join the folks at Sand Rock's Peddlers Market on Saturday, February 13 for a special auction featuring advertising, toys, and country store items!

Admission is free.

Visit the Facebook event for more details.

February 14, Singing at Freeman's Chapel - Join the congregation of Freeman's Chapel on Sunday, February 14 for worship with a special singing! The church is located at 45054 Alabama Hwy. 75 in Crossville. All are welcome.

February 20-21, Little Britches Rodeo at the Agri-Business Center - The Little Britches Rodeo will return to the Northeast Alabama Agri-Business Center on February 20 and February 21. Get ready for a 2 1/2 hour adventure for those who aren't afraid to explore on your knees, belly, in the mud, and through tight tunnels. The adventure includes a helmet, cave lamps, and a fun, informative guide! The cost is $5 per person, but those under 18 are free. This event is organized by the Alabama Little Britches Rodeo Association. For more information, please visit their Facebook page at www. facebook.com/albra. rodeo or visit nealagribusinesscenter.com.

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

From Thursday, January 21 through Saturday, January 30, the DeKalb County Sheriff's Office (DCSO) made 17 arrests on drug-related charges, including several for unlawful possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia. Full arrest reports can be found at southerntorch.com.

CRIME FROM PAGE 1

Drug Paraphernalia, Resisting Arrest • John Junior Orr (54 of Collinsville): Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance (2x) • Cortney Suzane Hill (39 of Fyffe): Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia • Shayne Nikole Henegar (22 of Collinsville): Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia • Dakota Storm Butler (26 of Centre): Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia • Rickey Dale Anderson (53 of Collinsville): Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd, Promoting Prison Contraband 2nd, Illegal Possession of Prescription Drugs, Resisting Arrest • Thomas Allen Sanders (30 of Fort Payne): Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia • Felicia Diane Pope (35 of Bryant): Trafficking in Any Illegal Drug, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Tampering with Physical Evidence • Bobby Ray Brackin

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 Joe Sims, Radio Operations Manager Zach Hester, Art Director/Reporter Amy Thrash, Account Executive Jenna Sue Payne, Account Executive B. Annette Little, Account Executive Teresa Smith, Traffic Director Dylan Smith, Jackson Blaze Managing Editor Lindsey Jones, Accounting Marshall Stiefel, Distribution Manager Tim Jones, Account Executive

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256.638.4040 • 256.259.2341 MEMBERSHIP RATES:

Regular Yearly Rate — $30 Senior /Veteran Yearly Rates — $25

(40 of Collinsville): Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia • Andre Ladon Orr (48 of Collinsville): Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Promoting Prison Contraband 2nd These arrests come only shortly after 27 arrests were made by the DeKalb County Sheriff's Office from January 12 through January 21. One stolen vehicle was also recovered at that time.

"We want to thank the public once again for their willingness to stand up for what's right and provide the many tips that make arrests like these people," said DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden. "It's great when the community has faith in our office and is willing to assist and provide information that we may not be aware of. I've said many times working together, we can make our communities safer for our children's future.

Thanks to the men and women that risk their lives every day to protect our county."

"God bless!" concluded Sheriff Welden.

FORT PAYNE, Ala. — The Fort Payne City Council held their regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, February 2 via the Zoom platform.

The Council passed Ordinance 2021-02 and Ordinance 2021-03, which adjusted sewer and sanitation rates by 3% recurring every year, with Councilmember John Smith voting against the Ordinance.

“I’m still not in favor of the recurring payment, being so much more than the cost of living index, right now”.

The first reading of Ordinance 2021-04 was read that regulates the refuse collection with the City Limits and Police Jurisdiction. The Council was updated that more dumpsters had been purchased and that the City could handle the needs of the City.

In other business, the Council: • Resolution

Fort Payne City Councilmember John Michael Smith (pictured above) was the lone member of the Council to vote against the 3% raise in sanitation and sewer rates within the City of Fort Payne.

(Submitted Photo)

2021-02, that amended Resolution 2020-31 that granted tax abatements to Pigeon Roost, LLC was passed.

• Resolution 2021-03, that amended Resolution 2020-32 that granted tax abatements to Kuduz Millwork was passed.

• Entered into a contract to kill wild hogs for $35 per hog and $35 per hour The Fort Payne Council will hold a special work session to discuss alternate routes versus a runaway truck ramp at Joe’s Truck Stop.

The next regular meeting of the Fort Payne City Council will be held on February 16.

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FRIDAY — FEBRUARY 5, 2020

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LEGALS IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No.: JU-2020-259.01 In the Matter of W.T.T., a minor (D.O.B. 8/2/17) NOTICE OF PETITION TO BRANDON TINKER AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PARTY Brandon Tinker, and any other interested party, please take notice that a Petition to Terminate Parental Rights regarding the minor child, W.T.T., in the above-styled matter has been filed in said Court by Megan Garner, Petitioner, and that the 4th day of March, 2021 at 10:00 o'clock a.m. has been set for hearing on the same at the DeKalb County Courthouse in Fort Payne, Alabama. Brandon Tinker, and any other interested party, be advised that if you intend to contest this termination of parental rights, you must file a written response on or before the 22nd day of February, 2021 with counsel for said Petitioner, and with the Clerk of the District Court or thereafter a judgment by default may be rendered. DONE this 7th day of January, 2021.

To be published: January 15, January 22, January 29, February 5

LEGALS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE NOTICE DEFAULT HAVING BEEN MADE in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain Real Estate Mortgage executed by Ronnie Coots and wife, Lisa Coots, the mortgagors, to FIRST BANK OF THE SOUTH, the mortgagee, which mortgage was recorded on July 13, 2016 in Mortgage Book 2150, Page 201 in the Office of the Judge of Probate, DeKalb County, Alabama; AND DEFAULT CONTINUING, notice hereby is given that under the power of sale contained in said mortgage, I will, on behalf of First State Bank of DeKalb County, as successor in interest to First Bank of the South, proceed to sell on February 24, 2021, during the legal hours of sale; to-wit: 11:00 o'clock a.m. to 4:00 o'clock p.m., in front of the main entrance door to the DeKalb County Courthouse in

Fort Payne, Alabama, to the highest, best, and last bidder for cash, the following described real estate situated in DeKalb County, Alabama, and described as follows: Tract 4 of the Billy Wagner properties according to a plat recorded in the Office of the Judge of Probate, DeKalb County, Alabama in Plat Book 7, Page 311 (Slide 213) and to which reference is hereby made for a more particular description of the lands herein described. Also conveyed is an easement for the maintenance of an existing field line system more particularly described as follows: Commencing at the Southeast corner of the Northeast ¼ of the Northeast ¼ of Section 22, Township 6 South, Range 8 East of the Huntsville Meridian, DeKalb County, Alabama, run North 88 degrees 04 minutes 05 seconds West with the South boundary line of the Northeast ¼ of the Northeast ¼ of said Section 22 for 307.94 feet to an iron pin marking the Southwest corner of a 0.69 acre tract of land; thence run North 43 degrees 44 minutes 18 seconds East with the Northwest boundary line of said tract for 135.00 feet for a point of beginning of a 40 foot wide easement for a septic field line system; thence run North 75 degrees 00 minutes West for 100.00 feet for a point off ending of said easement. Said easement being 40 feet in width lying 20 feet on each side of the above described centerline and having a centerline length of 100.00 feet, and is to serve the property as described as the 0.69 acre tract referenced to above. Said easement is lying in the Northeast ¼ of the Northeast ¼ of Section 22, Township 6 South, Range 8 East of the Huntsville Meridian, DeKalb County, Alabama.

Said sale is for the purpose of securing payment of the indebtedness secured by said Mortgage, together with the costs of foreclosure. ***Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the

Faith

foreclosure process.

To be published: January 22, January 29, February 5

LEGALS IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No.: 2021-20 IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JEFFREY WARREN LUSK, deceased LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION ON THE ESTATE OF JEFFREY WARREN LUSK, deceased, having been granted to the undersigned on the 18th day of January, 2021, by the Honorable Ronnie Osborn, Judge of Probate of Said County, notice is jereby 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: January 22, January 29, and February 5

LEGALS NOTICE OF VEHICLE POSSESSION Notice is hereby given that the undersigned will proceed to take possession of the following described abandoned vehicle(s) on 7/24/20: 2000 Dodge Durango VIN: 1B4HS28N2YF216110 TWENTY FOUR SEVEN TOWING 1207 Gault Avenue S Fort Payne, Alabama 35967 (256) 845-9918 To be published: January 29, February 5

LEGALS IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No.: 2021-26 IN RE: The Estate of Kallie B. Black, deceased PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE'S NOTICE TO FILE CLAIMS

Letters Testamentary as Personal Representatives of the Will of Kallie B. Black, deceased, having been granted to the undersigned on the 20th day of January, 2021, 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: January 29, February 5, February 12

LEGALS IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No.: 2021-38

LEGALS ABANDONED VEHICLE SALE MARCH 9, 2021 2000 CHEVY S10 BLACK 1GCCS1445Y8183709 1987 DODGE RAM GREY JB7FL49E9HP079288 1996 CHEVY S10 WHITE/BLACK 1GCCS19W1T8214828 2006 CADILLAC SRX TAN 1GYEE637960219013 2005 FORD 500 WHITE 1FAFP24125G202735

IN RE: THE ESTATE OF MARVIN H.BRYANT, deceased

2004VOLVO S80 GOLD YV1TS92D441336515

NOTICE TO FILE CLAIMS TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary having been granted to HEATH BRYANT, as Executor of the Estate of MARVIN H. BRYANT, deceased, on the 26th day of January 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.

1998 FORD MUSTANG MAROON 1FAFP4446WF180025

To be published: February 5, 12, 19

2004 MAZDA 3 RED JM1BK323341213553

LEGALS NOTICE OF VEHICLE POSSESSION Notice is hereby given that the undersigned will proceed to take possession of the following described abandoned vehicle(s) on 9/22/20: 2013 Chevrolet Silverado (blue) VIN: 3GCPCSE00GD298822 TWENTY FOUR SEVEN TOWING 1207 Gault Avenue S Fort Payne, Alabama 35967 (256) 845-9918 To be published: February 5, 12

2002 FORD RANGER PURPLE 1FTYR10U42TA79532

2002 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE GREY 1J8GX58S62C288775 1997 FORD F150 GREEN 1FTDX176XVNA42389 2003 HONDA ACCORD GOLD JHMCM56683C007791 1980 HONDA CM400 BLACK NCO117BM102032 1999 YAMAHA XVS65 JYAVM01N1XA001940 To be published: February 5, 12 Anyone having claim has until MARCH 9, 2021 to notify me with intent or vehicles will be sold at public auction at 8 a.m.

Seller reserves the right to reject any bids.

SALE LOCATION: Plunkett's Wrecker Service 12978 Alabama Highway 227 Geraldine, Ala. 35974 For more information, please call (256) 659-5440.

2003 CADILLAC SLS GOLD 1G6KS54Y83U175581 2000 FORD RANGER RED 1FTYR14C5YPA81342

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

FRIDAY — FEBRUARY 5, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

5

Rainsville Police Begin Amnesty Month

By Southern Torch Staff admin@southerntorch.com

PICTURED: Rainsville City Councilmembers and Fire Chief Willimac Wright show off new air tanks purchased for the Rainsville Fire Department through a more than $120,000 grant. (Marla Jones | Southern Torch)

TRASH FROM PAGE 1

17 being a fire incident.

The Council approved the following: • To seek bids for the replacement of drainage structures on Willingham, Wade, and Nappier. • Placement of Headwalls on Marshall Road to Boozer Construction in the amount of $2400 • Promoted Brad Willingham from Interim Director to Director of the Wastewater Treatment Plant • Promoted Josh WIlson to Lieutenant/ Detective in the Police

Department at a rate of $16.66 • Promoted Adam Facteau to a Grade II Operator in the Wastewater Treatment Plant at a rate of $18.00 • Two year K-9 Contract to Luke Yarbrough • Ordered dumpster lids from GoToParts in the amount of $939.24 • Authorized Mayor Lingerfelt to sign a sanitation agreement with the City of Fyffe • Extended the tax abatement to Rainsville Technology, Inc for another six months, for a total of 18 months • Remodel of the Revenue Office and Mayors Office at the City

Hall in the amount of $10,520.00 to Jimmy Traylor Construction • Floor at the Tom Bevill Floor to Monarch Carpet $9,740.00 • Ceiling at the Tom Bevill to Jimmy Traylor Construction for $13,380.00 • The passage of Resolution 02-01-2021 (A) to surplus AT&T cell phones The Council went into Executive Session to discuss pending litigation, with no action taken.

The next meeting of the Rainsville City Council will be held on Monday, February 15 at 4:30 p.m. with a work session at 4 p.m.

RAINSVILLE, Ala. — In an effort to clean up existing warrants, the Rainsville Police Department and Municipal Court will begin conducting an amnesty month on February 1, 2021.

For those with outstanding warrants or owing any outstanding fines/costs, please contact the Court Clerk at (256) 638-6334 or the Rainsville Police Department at (256) 638-2157 in order to find out what needs to be done.

According to the Rainsville Police Departments, these are warrants that have already been served, and they are extending the opportunity to come forward and resolve all issues rather than going out to make an arrest.

Payment review is the first Tuesday of each month at 4 p.m. If you are not able to pay what you owe in full, the Rainsville Police Department can facilitate payment options in an effort to help you get your fines/ costs paid for.

If you have not been to court yet and you have a warrant for Failure to Appear, if you will turn yourself in, they will set you another court date.

All active warrants will be published the first week of February.

Due to COVID-19, efforts to maintain

public safety have been set in place to reduce personal contact.

The options for payment are as follows: Payment by phone using a valid Debit/Credit Card, or using the drive-thru window at Rainsville City Hall and paying with a card, cash, or money order. Checks WILL NOT be accepted as payment.

The Rainsville Police Department thanks for your cooperation in this matter and we look forward to working with you and encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity.

DEATH NOTICES RAINSVILLE Hazel Louise Herrin - 92 of Rainsville, died on Tuesday, January 26.

Services were held on Friday, January 29 with burial in Brown’s Chapel Cemetery.

Aaron “Butch�

Barnett - 55 of Birmingham, Ala., died on Wednesday, January 27. Services were held on Monday, February 1 with burial in Rainsville Memorial Park.

Chester Leroy Nance - 92 of Fort Payne, died on Wednesday, January 27. Services were held on Sunday, January 31 at Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel with burial in Kirk Memorial Gardens.

Diana Flynn - 62 of Henagar, died on Friday, January 29.

Services and burial were held on Tuesday, February 2 with burial in Mountain Home Cemetery.

Charles Frank Brown - 79 of Rainsville, died on Friday, January 29.

Private services will be held by the family.

Glen Black - 82 of Fort Payne, died on Saturday, January 30.

Services and burial were held on Tuesday,

February 2 at Wesley’s Chapel Cemetery.

Mary Ruth Matthews Stiefel - 90 of Fyffe, died on Sunday, January 31.

Services and burial were held on Wednesday, February 3 at Green’s Chapel Cemetery.

Ruth Elizabeth Tilley Patterson - 92 of Sylvania, died on Monday, February 1.

Services and burial were held on Wednesday, February 3 at Mountain View Memory Gardens.

BURT Frank J. Brown 83 of Northport, died on Thursday, January 28. Services were held on Monday, February 1 at Burt Chapel-Fort Payne with burial in Lebanon Cemetery.

CROSSVILLE

H.D. Drain - 86 of Crossville, died on Saturday, January 30, 2021, at his home. The family has chosen cremation, and no services have been planned at this time.

Crossville Memorial Chapel is directing.

Burt Funeral H omes

Drain is survived by his wife, Shelby Drain; daughter, Jane Gomez; grandchildren, Justin Gomez, Brittany Gomez, and Stepanie Nichols (Brandon); sisters, Wydean Walters (Gene) and Teen Camp.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Rufus and Bular Drain; brother, Willard Drain; and sisters, Ruby Lee Stanley and Corina Cash.

Eulene “Dootsie�

Kilgore - 88 of Boaz, died on Monday, February 1. Services were held on Wednesday, February 3 with burial in Mt. Flat Baptist Church Cemetery.

WILSON Teresa Sue Parker - 63 of Rainsville, died on Wednesday, January 27. Services were held on Sunday, January 31 with burial in Glenwood Cemetery.

Betty Webster Harris - 92 of Fort Payne, died on Wednesday, January 27. No services are planned.

Karan McNutt - 63 of Fort Payne, died on Wednesday, January 27. Services were held on Friday, January 29 with burial in Glenwood Cemetery.

Lora Nell Womack - 90 of Fort Payne, died on Thursday, January 28. Services were held on Sunday, January 31 with burial in Glenwood Cemetery.

Hoyt Ashley - 90 of Fort Payne, died on Friday, January 29.

Services were held on Tuesday, February 2 with burial in Glenwood Cemetery.

Mike Hale - 64 of Fort Payne, died on Friday, January 29.

Services were held on Monday, February 1 with burial in Glenwood Cemetery.

Nancy Ellen McKinney - 71 of Fort Payne, died on Sunday, January 31.

Services will be held on Saturday, February 6 with burial in Fischer Cemetery.

Beverly Flagg - 71 of Fort Payne, died on Monday, February 1.

Services and burial were held on Wednesday, February 3 at Glenwood Cemetery.

CORNER STONE Doris Jean Hensley Smith - 89 of Henagar, died on Wednesday, January 27. Private services will be held.

Patricia Ann O’Connor - 68 of

Trenton, Ga., died on Thursday, January 28.

Services were held on Sunday, January 31 with burial in Payne Gap Cemetery.

Roy Millard Summers - 86 of Trenton, Ga., died on Saturday, January 30.

Services will be held on Saturday, February 6.

John Elbert Lea - 89 of Henagar, died on Saturday, January 30. Services were held on Monday, February 1 with burial in New Home Cemetery.

Christopher Dane Boyd - 23 of Pisgah, died on Sunday, January 31. Services were held on Wednesday, February 3 with burial in Green Haven Memorial Gardens.

Mary Rose Adkins - 97 of Jasper, Tenn., died on Sunday, January 31. Services and burial will be held on Saturday, February 6 at Smith’s Chapel Cemetery.

KERBY William R. “Ronnie� Biddle - 79 of Henagar, died on Tuesday, January 26.

Services and burial were held on Friday, January 29 at Pine Grove Cemetery.

KERBY Josephine Idelle Bryant - 94 of Glencoe, died on Friday, January 29.

Services and burial were held on Sunday, January 31 at Green’s Chapel Cemetery.

James Thomas George - 79 of Waterloo, died on Sunday, January 31.

Services and burial were held on Wednesday, February 3 at Mtn. View Memory Gardens.

Kendra Sloan Currie - 36 of Sylvania, died on Tuesday, February 2, 2021.

Funeral services are set for Friday, February 5, 2021, at 1 p.m. at Life Chapel Church with Bros. David Goss and David Starling officiating. Burial will follow in Union Grove Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, February 4 at Life Chapel Church in Rainsville.

Currie is survived by her daughters, Leianna Currie and Lily Currie; son, Janzen Currie; parents, Mike and Tricia Dendy; fiance, Jeff Gallagher; brother, Ethan Dendy; and grandmother, Ramona Gail Wilson.

Elizabeth Jane Tidmore - 79 of Section, died on Tuesday, February 2.

Services were held on Thursday, February 4 with burial in Copeland Bridge Cemetery.

6

FRIDAY — FEBRUARY 5, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCHT

SPORTS

Edwards Selected to Serve on NHSSCA

By Marla Jones Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

CROSSVILLE, Ala. — Crossville coach Riley Edwards has been selected to serve a second term with the National High School Strength Coaches Association (NHSSCA) Alabama Advisory Board.

Edwards currently serves as the head strength and conditioning coach for all sports and Assistant Football Coach at Crossville High School.

He holds certifications in NSCA High School Fly Solo, U.S. Sports Academy Sports Strength and Conditioning, IYCA High School Strength and

Conditioning, and is a USA Level 1 Sports Performance Specialist. “I am glad to be [given the opportunity] to put my certification to use here at Crossville,� said Edwards. “Coach Peppers and Coach Poole...laid out their vision as far as the Sports Performance Program at Crossville and what their vision for the future here is.�

Additionally, Edwards thanked Crossville Head Football Coach Dusty Darnell for his vision in wanting to build the whole person, as opposed to just building the athlete. “They are allowing me to bring the NHSSCA mission statement and

put it to use,� Edwards concluded.

The NHSSCA is a national strength and conditioning association of high school sports coaches. Their purpose is the education, equipment, and empowerment of coaches to make a positive impact on student-athletes through free clinics, online resources, and an unlimited means of education for the coaches admitted to the organization.

The NHSSCA has members at all levels from high school, college, professional, and private schools. For more information, please visit nhssca.us.

Lyles Signs with UWA

Edwards teaches proper weight lifting techniques to his players. (Submitted Photo)

1,000 Points Club

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor • marla@southerntorch.com FYFFE, Ala. — On Wednesday, Fyffe senior Caleb Lyles signed his letter of intent to continue his football career at the University of West Alabama (UWA) in Livingston, Ala. "I am happy to continue my education at the University of West Alabama," said Lyles. "I will majoring in Engineering Technology and playing the position of offensive lineman.

During his football career at Fyffe, Lyles was an integral part of the Red Devils claiming four State titles. He has received numerous awards and was also nominated three consecutive times for the Alabama Sports Writers Association's Lineman of the Year.

"I am proud of the person and player that Caleb Lyles is. He was a huge asset to our team," said Fyffe Head Coach Paul Benefield. "I look forward to seeing all that he accomplishes at UWA."

Savannah Seals, a junior on the Ider Lady Hornets basketball team, scored her 1,000th point on January 25, 2021, in the game against Section.

Seals is the daughter of Phil and Brooke Seals of Ider. She is pictured with her teammates and Coach Dustin Bryant after the game.

Hunter of the Week This week's Southern Torch Hunter of the Week is Ryder Griggs!

Griggs is the son of Rocky Griggs and Southern Torch Account Executive Amy Thrash. He bagged this buck while hunting with his brother, Gage.

To be featured as the next Southern Torch Hunter of the Week, submit your photos to marla@ southerntorch.com!

Lane White, a senior on the Fort Payne Wildcats Varsity basketball team, scored his 1,000th point on January 15, 2021, in the game against Scottsboro.

White is the son of Johnnie White. He is pictured with his commemorative basketball after the game.

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FRIDAY — FEBRUARY 5, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

7

SPORTS

Area Tournament Begins Next Week VARSITY GIRLS

Class 1A Area 13 Girls

Class 2A Area 15 Girls

Round 1: Feb. 6 — Cedar Bluff vs. Gaylesville Skyline, Valley Head, Woodville (BYE) Semi-Finals: Feb. 9 — Skyline vs. Winner of Round 1 Semi-Finals: Feb. 9 (Valley Head) — Valley Head vs. Woodville Finals: February 12

Semi-Finals: Feb. 9 — Pisgah vs. Section @ 6 p.m Ider vs. North Sand Mountain @ 6 p.m.

Championship Game: Feb. 12 at 6 p.m.

Class 3A Area 12 Girls

Class 3A Area 14 Girls

Semi-Finals: Feb. 8 — Collinsville vs. Glencoe @ 6 p.m.

Geraldine vs. Hokes Bluff at 6 p.m.

Championship Game: February 11 @ 6 p.m.

Semi-Finals: Feb. 8 — Plainview vs. Asbury @ 6 p.m.

Sylvania vs. Fyffe at 6 p.m.

Championship Game: February 11 @ 6 p.m.

Class 5A Area 13 Girls

Class 6A Area 15 Girls

Semi-Finals: Feb. 8 — Boaz vs. Crossville @ 6 p.m.

Douglas vs. Sardis at 6 p.m.

Championship Game: February 11 @ 6 p.m.

Semi-Finals: Feb. 8 — Buckhorn vs. Arab @ 6 p.m.

Scottsboro vs. Fort Payne at 6 p.m.

Championship Game: February 11 @ 6 p.m.

At the time of press, brackets for the Varsity Boys were unavailable. They will be posted to southerntorch.com when available.

8

FRIDAY — FEBRUARY 5, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCHT

POLITICS

INSIDE THE STATEHOUSE

Gov. Ivey Holds State Alabama's Legislative Session Begins of the State Address

By Zach Hester, Reporter • zach@southerntorch.com

By Steve Flowers Political Columnist www.steveflowers.us MONTGOMERY, Ala. — As the 2021 Regular Legislative Session begins, you will see new leadership in the state Senate. Republicans dominate both chambers, overwhelmingly. They have a supermajority and dominate all issues and the budgeting process.

They acknowledge the handful of Democrats, but really never give them any say in decision making. Therefore, the leadership is determined within the Republican caucus.

President Pro Tem, Del Marsh, decided in late November to step down from the all-powerful position of President Pro Tem of the Senate. Marsh had announced a few months earlier that he would not run for reelection to his Anniston based Senate Seat in the 2022 Elections. Many Montgomery insiders had foreseen this change in leadership for a while.

The succession of state Senator Greg Reed of Jasper to the Pro Tem leadership of the Senate

post was expected, as was the ascension of Senator Clay Scofield of Marshall County to the Majority Leader position.

Greg Reed’s anointment to the omnipotent President Pro Tem position is a natural transition for the Alabama Senate. He is a real leader and well respected by his colleagues. This progression has been in the works for a while.

Reed is a perfect choice to lead the Alabama State Senate. He is very organized and meticulous with excellent planning and organizational skills.

Senator Clay Scofield is one of the most likable people in the Senate. He is very jovial and friendly but deceptively effective.

He is a young, prominent farmer from Sand Mountain and he will be a great Majority Leader.

First-term State Senator Donnie Chesteen of Geneva/ Houston is doing a yeoman’s job working to expand rural broadband in the state. He served eight years in the House before moving to the Senate in 2018.

The Democrats may have a superstar

Ider Discount Drugs

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emerging in the Senate with Kirk Hatcher of Montgomery. Hatcher is in his first term in the Alabama House. When Senator David Burkette left the Montgomery Democratic Senate Seat last year, an open race to fill the seat began.

Hatcher entered and led a six-person field with an impressive 48%.

Second place finisher, veteran former Representative, John Knight, could barely muster 20%. Hatcher finished Knight off in a December runoff.

Kirk Hatcher joins his fellow Morehouse graduates, Mayor Steven Reed and Probate Judge J.C. Love, as the new, young leadership of Montgomery. This triumvirate cadre of leaders all grew up together in Montgomery.

All three went off to Morehouse and came home to lead their city.

They are an impressive threesome.

Democrats in the House and Senate would like to see early voting and absentee voting made easier in Alabama.

However, their efforts to allow early voting or no-excuse absentee voting faces a dismal outlook in the GOP controlled legislature.

The state saw an amazing recordbreaking 318,000 absentee ballots cast in the November election.

The previous record was 89,000. The rules were loosened by Secretary of State John Merrill due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

More than a dozen counties opened courthouses on Saturday for people to cast in-person absentee ballots.

State Representative Chris England, who also chairs the Alabama Democratic Party, has

opined that the long lines and extensive absentee ballot voting shows that people want opportunities to vote early. England and House Democratic Leader Anthony Daniels of Huntsville will push for change in the state voting laws that give Alabamians the opportunity to vote early, permanently.

Daniels and England are young superstars to watch.

Chris England gets his leadership abilities honestly. His father is legendary Tuscaloosa Circuit Judge and former State Supreme Court Justice and University of Alabama Trustee, John England. The apple does not fall far from the tree.

Chris is also a prominent Tuscaloosa lawyer in his own right.

The House leadership will remain intact and continue their well-organized operating procedures. Speaker Mac McCutcheon is mild-mannered, gentlemanly, and well-liked. He and the popular Republican Majority Leader Nathaniel Ledbetter from DeKalb County work well together in organizing the super Republican Majority House of Representatives. Veteran Mobile Legislator Victor Gaston is steady as Pro Tem. The glue that holds the House together and makes it successful is the two Budget Chairmen Steve Clouse of Ozark and Bill Poole of Tuscaloosa. Clouse and Poole have chaired the House Ways and Means Committees for almost a decade. They do an excellent job. Both budgets originate in the House.

FISH DAY!

IT’S TIME TO STOCK YOUR POND! Delivery Will Be: Wednesday, February 17

Albertville 7:30-8:15 @ Albertville Farmers Co-op Boaz 8:45-9:30 @ Farmtown Crossville 10:00-10:45 @ DeKalb Farmers Co-op Collinsville 11:15-11:45 @ Tyler Farms Centre 12:15-12:45 @ Cherokee Farmers Co-op Gadsden 1:30-2:15 @ 411 Feed & Seed Garden Center

MONTGOMERY, Ala. — On Tuesday night, Governor Kay Ivey (R-Ala.) delivered her annual State of the State address — this time, virtually due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Signaling the start of the 2021 Legislative Session, the governor’s message was focused on a robust agenda involving pay raises for teachers and state employees, more pandemic-related protocols, and several bills that will be focused on during the upcoming session.

Ivey reported an unemployment rate of 2.7%, the lowest rate in the history of the State of Alabama before the pandemic struck the economy. According to Ivey, the unemployment rate grew to 13.3% last April, but has fallen back to 3.9% in December. “We were seeing economic prosperity all around and, we were dealing with the wonderful problem of more jobs than people to fill them,� said Ivey. “During the past 12 months, Alabama — like the rest of the country — had no choice but to deal with one giant challenge after another...Despite all that was thrown at us, Alabamians remained grounded and kept our resolve. You never gave up.�

Ivey stated her agenda begins with an open, transparent relationship with the Legislature.

She listed top priorities for the upcoming year, including: • A measure to ensure everyone who received CARES Act dollars will not pay state income taxes on that relief money • Renewal of economic development incentives to rebuild a diverse economy • Legislation that will allow businesses to avoid lawsuits that might come because of COVID-19 • A 2% pay increase for teachers and state employees • Addressing the State of Alabama’s “weak linkâ€? in infrastructure in the area of broadband and internet connectivity • Further investments in infrastructure • Moving forward with criminal justice and prison reform • Establishing a transparent process to propose an “approach to gambling [that is] in the best interest of our stateâ€? “I hope that as Alabama continues to make progress, we remember the lessons of history,â€? Ivey concluded. “We must consider our challenges ahead as more than momentary struggles and view them in the lenses of our legacy. Remember, there is nothing we cannot achieve when we work together.â€?

To view the full transcript of Governor Ivey’s address, please visit governor.alabama.gov.

COVID FROM PAGE 1

will have a plan in place to get the vaccine in people’s arms more quickly.�

This expansion of vaccine access will add over 1 million citizens to the growing roster of those eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine in Alabama. “Alabama is expanding its guidance despite the limited vaccine in order to accelerate the vaccine uptake in our state,� said Dr. Scott Harris, State Public Health Officer. “I want to reiterate that any remaining vaccines that have not been administered are either someone’s first dose and they are waiting on their appointment or they are waiting on their second dose. Any vaccine currently in the state has someone’s name on it.�

As of Tuesday, February 2, the ADPH had recorded 462,938 cases of the novel coronavirus in Alabama with 7,894 deaths confirmed since last spring. 242,143 of those cases have been labeled as “presumed recoveries.�

In DeKalb County, over 8,000 cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed since last March with 143 deaths.

As of last week, DeKalb County was labeled in a “low risk� category for active virus spread as COVID-19 continues a downward spiral statewide (for now.)

To schedule an appointment for a free COVID-19 vaccination, contact the Alabama Department of Public Health’s COVID-19 hotline at 1 (855) 566-5333. A list of vaccine providers can be found at alabamapublichealth.gov.

To Place an Order, call:

FISHWAGON 1 (800) 643-8439 • www.fishwagon.com

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256.659.2138

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THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FRIDAY — FEBRUARY 5, 2020

AUCTIONS UNITED COURT ORDERED SALE

Real Estate Terms: A 10% Buyers Premium will be added to the highest bid and will be paid the day of the sale. The balance is due on or before closing within 30 days. Final bid subject to final court approval.

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James Givens, AL Broker Lic. Q4D 8246 • James Givens, AAL 1218 16 Commerce Court, Rome, Ga.

9599 AL HWY 40 Henagar, AL 35978 www.ggtaxservice.net

See Our Facebook Page Monday-Friday 9-4 (Appointment Only)

Refund Advance Loans

CONTACT MARLA AT

256.638.4040 • 256.605.4427 marla@southerntorch.com

Follow us for special travel packages to great destinations! We offer comprehensive travel packages for every traveler and for every budget!

SOUTHERN TORCH WeĘźre going places.

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FRIDAY — FEBRUARY 5, 2020

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Our team has slashed prices down just to earn your business! You can’t afford to miss our HUGE tent sale, located beside Fort Payne Walmart!

2020 Hyundai Santa Fe

2017 Toyota Camry XLE

2017 Ford Escape SE

2019 Kia Rio S Sedan

2011 Cadillac SRX SUV

2019 Hyundai Elantra

2017 Dodge Grand Caravan

2015 Volkswagen Passat

2010 Ford F-150 Lariat