The Southern Torch, Vol. 2, No. 15

THE SOUTHERN TORCH / FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016 / VOL. 2, NO. 15 / $1.00

COMMUNITY

FAITH

POLITICS

COLLINSVILLE TO HOST ANNUAL DUCK RACE COLOR RUN > PAGE 3

A MOMENT WITH MEGAN: FILL MY CUP UP

ARTICLES OF IMPEACHMENT OFFICIALLY FILED

If I could do it again > PAGE 6

> PAGE 7

Former DeKalb rivals face off in Old Timers Match-up

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

FYFFE, Ala.— If you ask any football player, cheerleader or band member if they would do it again if they could, the answer is always yes. Everyone wants to feel like a teenager and relive their glory days. On Saturday, you will be able to see players, cheerleaders and band members getting that chance at the Long Ranch for Boys North vs South Old Timers Football Game.

Phillip Fowler, 51 is the oldest member of the South football team. He has played in every game since the beginning, three years ago. His position in offensive center. Fowler said that “it's tougher playing grown men than boys. You are up against 250-270 pound men. They hit harder and they are rougher than in high school. This is the hardest game you will ever play.”

Fowler said he “works out throughout the year because he doesn't want to feel old.” .He said the Long Ranch for Boys game is a reason to stay in shape and to feel young. He said he wouldn't consider the game as he reliving his glory days, it is because he loves the game.

Fowler suffered a heart attack three weeks before the game last year. He only missed one practice and was able to play. This summer, he had a motorcycle accident and stayed in ICU for four days. Many told him that this would be the end of his football career. Fowler’s response was, “I have six months to get better.” When asked how much longer he would play, his response was simple, “I will stop playing when I turn 60, no matter if I feel like it or not.”

The North vs South Old Timers Game will start Saturday at 6 pm.

Gates will open at 4:30 pm.

According to Paul Long of the Long Ranch for Boys, the expected crowd will be 4-5,000 people. All money raised will continue to support the Long Ranch that will open this month.

This Saturday, April 9, at Fyffe High School former DeKalb County high school football rivals will have one more chance to put on the pads and take the gridiron in the DeKalb County North vs.

South Old Timers Football Match-up.

Photo provided

by Mandy Helton

DeKalb Judge hears handgun permit appeal

By Joseph M. Morgan joseph@southerntorch.com

DEKALB COUNTY, Ala.—A DeKalb County resident who was denied a pistol permit in January by the DeKalb County Sheriff’s department took his case before DeKalb County District Judge Steven Whitmire this In District Court, Rickey Pippin vs. DeKalb County Sheriff Jimmy Harris in appeal of handgun permit denial

CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

Community shows love for Savannah

By Tyler Pruett tyler@southerntorch.com

Savannah Willingham of Rainsville

RAINSVILLE, Ala.— In the face of a tragic accident, the Rainsville community and Dekalb County citizens have rallied around Plainview High School senior Savannah Willingham.

Savannah’s life was changed on March 2, when she lost her ability

CONNECT WITH US

Visit our website at www.southerntorch.com for daily news updates and pick up your weekly print edition at news stands every Thursday.

like

watch

tweet

to walk as the result of a wreck. She’s currently recovering at Shepherd’s Hospital in Atlanta, and while away from home, home has stepped up for her in a big way.

Since the accident, local organizers have scheduled events to help raise funds. The funds will be used to provide Savannah with a suitable, handicapped accessible

apartment.

Rehabilitation and care will also be costly, and new procedures may become available in the future to help Savannah regain her ability to walk.

Here’s a list of events and ways you can get involved: CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

The Southern Torch – Southern Torch, Inc. News every Friday.

For Subscriptions: Call (256) 638-4040 or email subscriptions@southerntorch.com

THIS WEEK IN COMMUNITY

Upcoming events for the week of 4/8 Run for Uganda 5K - Rainsville Community Church is hosting a 5K to raise money to benefit their missions team and the digging of wells in Uganda.

Contact Rev. Jeff Sayre for registration info. Entry fee is $25 thru day of race.

Rainsville Community Church 8:30 a.m. 256-601-9236…

Page 4

THIS WEEK IN POLITICS

Alabama Attorney General rules "Draftkings" and "FanDuel" websites illegal

In a statement released on Tuesday. April 5, Alabama Attorney General Luther Strange announced that paid online fantasy sports sites constitue illegal gambling under current state laws, ruling the "Draftkings. com" and "FanDuel.com" websites illegal…

Page 7

THIS WEEK IN SPORTS

Shaping lives through Faith and Fitness

A couple of years ago Coach Shawn Turner posted a picture on Facebook of he and his wife that would ultimately change his life.

After seeing Turner's photo online, an old friend that hadn't seen Turner in a long time called excitedly to make an observation. He said, "Shawn!

You're chubby like me now!"…

Page 10 PRESORTED STANDARD MAIL U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

PERMIT NO. 60 RAINSVILLE, AL

2

Friday–April 8, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Publisher, Joseph M. Morgan Layout editor, Dwayne Adams

Announcement followed byC vote to borrow $1.6 million D

By Joseph M. Morgan joseph@southerntorch.com

RAINSVILLE, Ala.— The city of Rainsville recently conducted an independent audit of city finances that reported a budget surplus of $161,547 for the 2015 fiscal year (FY2015). The city made public the audit’s findings at their council meeting Monday night.

The Certified Public Accounting (CPA) firm Grant, Croft and Associates, P.C. (GCA) conducted the outside

audit. The FY2015 budget for the city of Rainsville was reported at $3,847,600. GCA’s audit of city finances reported total city revenues for FY2015 of $4,081,674.

Rainsville Mayor Nick Jones said the city brings in an outside auditor each year to provide citizens with an impartial, transparent report of how their tax dollars are being spent.

“Making sure we are good stewards of city finances is something I take very seriously,”

Rainsville Mayor Nick Jones said. “The people of Rainsville have placed their faith and trust in us as city leaders to spend and invest their money wisely. I remain committed to that principle. I will continue to make sure that every dollar is accounted for and do all that I can within this body to rein in and prevent unnecessary or unwise spending.”

Graham praised the financial efforts of the mayor and council, and then proceeded with a 30-minute presentation about city finances.

Following Graham’s presentation, the council moved on to other business. Things became tense when Jones confronted the council for spending $75,000 without following the standard procedure of getting council and mayoral approval before spending city dollars.

Jones asked the council why a $75,000 check to Jimmy Traylor Construction had been paid without the approval of the council.

“Every single invoice during this term has been put on a voucher and we voted on it before paying,” Jones said. “A $75,000 bill was never brought to this table. I want to know why this bill was not paid the way that we’ve paid every single bill this year. Who authorized this payment?”

Jones said his dispute was not about the amount or payment of the bill. He said his concern was that someone spent $75,000 without authorization.

At their previous meeting, the council

discussed taking out a loan to pay construction debt, opting instead at the mayor’s urging to host a debt workshop to take a look at each of the city’s existing debts before deciding whether or not to take on more.

Jones said he would prefer to spend money from the city’s budget instead of voting to take out a new loan for money the city does not need.

“I seem to have a very different sentiment in terms of how we manage our city’s finances,” Jones said. “It makes absolutely no sense to borrow money before we even need it. We have the finances to pay what we owe now. You don’t want to pay this invoice when we’ve got the money in the bank?

“What is the total that we owe, roughly $300,000 or $400,000?”

Jones asked.

“No, we owe about $600,000 left on this project,” Councilman Joey Graham said.

To settle the matter, Councilwoman Melissa Ledbetter called on the city’s financial expert who happened to be at the meeting Monday night.

“Our accountant just walked in,” Ledbetter said. “She’s in the crowd.

Betty, I’m sorry to put you on the spot. Do we have the money right now, as it stands, not to get that construction loan?

Rainsville City Accountant Betty Holcomb, C.P.A. responded to Ledbetter’s question, “You actually do have surplus in your general fund, possibly enough to pay it.”

“I have no doubt that we will eventually need

to take out some small

construction loans, but we don’t have to do that yet,” Jones said. “Not only does each member of the council say we should borrow money immediately, they want to borrow $1.6 million!? I cannot in good conscience put the people of this city on the hook for money we do not need. It’s simply not fair to ask our children and grandchildren to pay the interest on money they will never see and we do not need.”

Jones said despite the unanimous commitment from the council two weeks ago to host the debt workshop, only one member of the council, Brandon Freeman, followed through on the commitment to look at finances before deciding whether or not to take

B t

A out the $1.6 million loan. C s The mayor stated his r position again Monday 1 night, arguing that he did a p not see the logic in 5 borrowing money the t city does not yet need andd W accruing interest on a money the city does not C have to have in its coffers A m to continue to operate a efficiently. r n Regardless, the s council brought the matter to a vote. The vote was unanimous to take on the $1.6 million debt—all except for one.

Jones was the only “no” vote.

Friday–April 8, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

3

COMMUNITY Collinsville to host annual Duck Race, Color Run To submit community news, contact: news@southerntorch.com Tel. 256 638 4040 www.southerntorch.com

Collinsville City Hall

By Tyler Pruett tyler@southerntorch.com

COLLINSVILLE, Ala.— The City of Collinsville is hosting several annual fundraisers on Saturday, April 16, 2016. Beginning at 9 a.m. in the city park, participants will begin a 5k “color run” and also at this time the rubber dducks will be released on Wills Creek for the annual Duck Race. The Collinsville Historical Association is raising money for a good cause as well, with a raffle to raise funds needed for new lights and a marquee sign on the historic

Cricket Theatre.

The second annual 5k color fun run supporting Relay for Life will begin at 9 a.m., with late registration beginning at 8 a.m. The cost is $10 per participant with the first 100 entrants receiving a free t-shirt. Participants may pre-register by sending entry forms and fees to Claire Chandler at Collinsville School. The deadline for pre-registration is Monday, April 11.

Registration forms may be picked up at Collinsville School, Collinsville Healthcare, and city hall.

Participants may run

The brackets on the Cricket Theatre that once held the signature marquee

or walk the 5k. Children participating must be age appropriate and any child below the 4th grade must have an adult present.

Powder based paint made from cornstarch and coloring will be thrown on contestants at four different stations throughout the race. The powdered paint may stain clothes or shoes, so dress accordingly.

The color run is sponsored by Collinsville School and the community. Contact Claire Chandler at (256)5238895 or Emmily Smith at (256)490-6721.

The Collinsville

Historical Association will be selling tickets for a raffle to raise funds for a new marquee and lighting. Efforts to restore the historic Cricket Theatre have been underway since 2009.

Reopened late last year, the theatre had served as the symbol of Collinsville for almost 70 years.

The grand opening was held in 1946, but the theatre’s popularity declined during the sixties. The Cricket would shut it’s doors for around fifty years, until the city purchased the building in 2009 from a private owner. While reopened late last year, the old theatre still needs many more improvements. The marquee would do a lot to improve the aesthetics of main street “It would mean everything to our main street, and it will do a lot to improve the looks of

the downtown area,” said Collinsville Mayor Johnny Traffanstedt.

The main event of the day will be the annual Duck Race beginning at 9 a.m. in the city park.

Contestants can purchase “ducks” for $5 per duck or $25 for the “Quack Pack,” which contains six entries. The “fastest duck” will win $500, while other prizes will be awarded for the top 10 to finish, and even a trophy for the very last. Music will be provided by Still Kickin, Logan Graves, Payton and John Sells.

There will be food, vendors, and bounce houses for the kids. Bring your lawn chairs for a fun filled day. All proceeds go to the Collinsville parks and recreation department.

4

Friday–April 8, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

COMMUNITY

Upcoming events for the week of 4/8 April 9:

Run for Uganda 5k Rainsville Community Church is hosting a 5k to raise money to benefit their missions team and the digging of wells in Uganda. Contact Rev. Jeff Sayre for registration info. Entry fee is $25 thru day of race. Rainsville Community Church 8:30 a.m. 256-601-9236

April 9:

Taste of the Mountain and Art Auction - A night of great food creations provided by Mentone area restaurants and for amazing artwork for auction by Moon Lake Elementary School students and local artist friends of MERF. Moon Lake Elementary School gym. Table of eight is $200 and single ticket is

$30. Purchase tickets in advance at Mentone Market. 256-634-4673.

April 16:

Third Saturday Downtown Cruise-In - You can come and enjoy an afternoon of family fun activities in downtown Fort Payne. This public event will include food, live music, a car show, and more from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.. 256-996-3857

April 16:

Collinsville Duck Race - 9 a.m. - 2 p.m City Park.

Music includes Still Kickin, Logan Graves, Payton and John Sells. Food, Blow up for the kids and Vendors. Duck Tickets are $5.00 or 6 for $25.00 (quack pack). Fastest Duck wins $500.00

April 16:

AP Plasman 1st Annual Dice Run for Relay for Life - Registration at 10:30 a.m. and kickstands up at 11:00.

Will return by 2:30 p.m.

(Backup day is May 14) The ride will start at AP Plasman on 403 Airport road Fort Payne and return to the Rib Shack.

The first hand will be $20 and each additional hand will be $10. The ride will be close to 100 miles.

Also a 50/50 drawing and door prizes.

April 17:

Wiffle for Savannah Wiffle for Savannah is Sunday April 17 at the Field of Dreams (Rainsville Sports Complex).

This is a slow pitch tournament and set to begin at 1 p.m. The deadline

to sign your team up is April 13th. The cost is $40 and all proceeds will be donated to Savannah Willingham.. See Cody Coots, Brooke Debter or any field of nightmares board to pay. Register at http//fieldofnightmares. weebly.com/wiffle-forsavannah.html

April 21-24 & 28-May 1:

NACC Theatre presents Big Fish - At the Tom Bevill Lyceum on the campus of Northeast Alabama Community College. Enjoy humor and spectacular stagecraft.

Tickets are only $5 and go on sale to the general public on March 24.

April 23:

JROTC Color Run at 10 a.m. Fort Payne High

School - 100th anniversary for JROTC. We are setting the world record! $24 entry fee includes tshirt, coin and certificate as well as a $5 donation to FPHS JROTC. Deadline to register is April 15th.

Register at www.jrotc anniversary.com.

April 29:

Rainsville Baptist Church - hosting Secret Church with David Platt on Friday, April 29 2016 beginning at 5:30 in the Auditorium. Topic: “A Global gospel in the World of Religions”. In order to get a book with all his noted, you need to register by April 13 and pay $10. If you don’t want a book, then you are free to attend with no registration. To register go to www.rainsvillefirst.com or call 256-638-3141.

Spring cleaning more than you can handle? Call in the pros this year.

w s

FREE: Haul away to the Dump Day

by the Town of Crossville Street Department. Get your Spring cleaning done. Must place your stuff at roadside to be picked up.

April 20, 21, & 22nd (will not pick up after noon on Friday!) Call Crossville Town Hall today and get your name put on the pick-up list.

256-528-7121

J 2 R S fi a P t D a g a c o i S r M A F

t d d b w h m S r h q E d b t r j

C J “ s i p c t t f p s

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT Friday–April 8, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

5

THE FISHERMAN SOUTHERN GOSPEL QUARTET For bookings call: Glenn Smith (256) 572-6146 Check us out on Facebook

3 locations to serve you: Rainsville 256-638-8600 Scottsboro 256-574-2679 Fort Payne 256-845-3350.

Continued from page 1; "Judge hears handgun appeal" week to appeal the sheriff’s decision.

After his denial in late January, Rickey Pippin, 25, filed an appeal in Rickey S. Pippin vs.

Sheriff Jimmy Harris to fight for his right to carry and conceal a firearm.

Pippin said that just prior to his permit denial in DeKalb he received approval from the federal government after passing an extensive background check. He said his ownership of the weapon is also recognized by the State of Alabama and it is registered with the Montgomery Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms.

Pippin said he was told by the Sheriff’s department that he was denied the permit because he was charged with a sex offense when he was an 11-year-old minor. In Alabama the Sheriff in each county is responsible for issuing handgun permits to qualified applicants.

Employees at the Sheriff’s department know Pippin because when he moved to DeKalb County, he was required to register as a juvenile sex offender.

Pippin’s attorney, Chad Hopper stated to Judge Whitmire, “Alabama law says the sheriff of a county shall issue a permit for a person to carry a concealed pistol unless the sheriff determines the person is prohibited from possession of a pistol or firearm pursuant state or federal law.

“On the form Mr. Pippin received denying his permit the Sheriff wrote, “The evidence on which this denial is based is due to the fact that Rickey S. Pippin is registering as a sex offender in our county.’

“Your honor, that is not correct. Mr. Pippin is not registering as an adult sex offender, but we do stipulate the fact that he is registering as a juvenile sex offender in DeKalb County. Mr. Pippin has applied for and received federal authorization and passed a background check to carry a weapon openly, and he does carry a weapon openly. There is no reason for him to have been denied a concealed permit by Sheriff Harris.

“The statute that I quoted earlier your honor, 13-A-11-75, says that for the sheriff to determine that he would use a weapon in a dangerous manner to himself and to others he can consider several factors and those are spelled out under 13-11-A-A: “In making such determination, the sheriff may consider whether the applicant: 1. Was found guilty but mentally ill in a criminal case.

2. Was found not guilty in a criminal case by reason of insanity or mental disease or defect.

3. Was declared incompetent to stand trial in a criminal case.

4. Asserted a defense

in a criminal case of not guilty by reason of insanity or mental disease or defect.

5. Was found not guilty only by reason of lack of mental responsibility under the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

6. Required involuntary inpatient treatment in a psychiatric hospital or similar treatment facility.

7. Required involuntary outpatient treatment in a psychiatric hospital or similar treatment facility based on a finding that the person is an imminent danger to himself or herself or to others.

8. Required involuntary commitment to a psychiatric hospital or similar treatment facility for any reason, including drug use.

9. Is or was the subject of a prosecution or of a commitment or incompetency proceeding that could lead to a prohibition on the receipt or possession of a firearm under the laws of Alabama or the United States.

10. Falsified any portion of the permit application.

11. Caused justifiable concern for public safety. b. The sheriff shall take into account how recent any consideration under paragraph a. is in relation to the date of the application.

“Those are the things that the statute says that the sheriff are supposed to consider. Mr. Pippin

doesn’t meet any of those. So we’re not asking to do anything other than what the statute says which is if you receive an appeal and its timely then you review the appeal and the sheriff must have the burden of proving by clear and convincing evidence that the person is prohibited.

“So, we’re not asking you to do anything over and above what the statute says we can ask which is you require the sheriff to prove by clear and convincing evidence.

The sheriff would then be ordered to, just like ordering him to go out on an eviction or any other thing you ask the sheriff to do, the sheriff would be ordered to issue Mr. Pippin a permit.”

Judge Whitmire said he will review the facts of the case and make a decision within the next 30 days. Southern Torch will provide an update to this story on our website early next week. Stay tuned.

Wiffle for Savannah Willingham Tournament A wiffle ball tournament will be held on Sunday, April 17, at the Field of Dreams in Rainsville beginning at 1 p.m. You can register a team by contacting Cody Coots at (256)899-3106 or visit http://www. fieldofnightmares. weebly.com. Deadline to register is April 13 and the registration fee is $40 per team. Each team consists of a maximum 4

persons with a fifth person as a batter only. In addition to selling chances at the tournament, we will also have a bake sale, blow up houses for the kids, and much more going on that day.

Nick Saban autographed football raffle We are selling chances to win an authentic Nick Saban autographed football.

The drawing will be held on Sunday, April 17 at the Wiffle for Savannah Willingham tournament.

Chances are $5 each or 5 chances for $20. You do not have to be present to win. Tickets can be purchased at the Wiffle Ball Tournament, or by calling Laura at (256)899-9899.

Redbasket.org Red Basket is an online charity organization that has told Savannah’s story and has it featured on their website. ALL contributions made through redbasket.org are tax deductible and you will receive a receipt for your donation. If you are a Woodmen Insurance policy holder and you create an account, Woodmen Insurance will match your donation of at least

6

Friday–April 8, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FAITH

A fateful decision

By Dr. John E. Morgan Pastor–Collinsville Baptist Church

Dennis and I made a mistake. In our defense, we were probably confused by the Pluto Water.

It was 1974. I was in seminary in Louisville and was serving as a Youth Minister in Indiana. Dennis was my main youth leader. We worked really well together and became good friends.

In January, the church offered to pay for us to go to a conference for church workers. There would be sessions for youth workers. We gladly accepted the opportunity.

The conference was being held at a Sheraton in West Baden about a hundred miles away. It would last three days and two nights. The hotel was amazing. It was built in the 1800’s as a health resort. West Baden has hot springs that flow with

hot sulfur water. Because they came from underground, the developers called the water Pluto Water (get it – underground, Greek mythology).The waters were thought to bring healing, so the spa became a destination for people seeking health or treatment.

Dennis and I checked into the huge old hotel and went to conferences.

They were helpful.

Between meetings, we made use of the hotel’s facilities like the gym.

We both love basketball.

There was also a fairly new heated pool under a geodesic dome. It was January in Indiana. Snow on the ground. We did lots of swimming.

The last night we decided we would leave the grounds. We walked into the small town where we had two choices. There was a high school basketball game at the local school.

And there was a movie theatre. We loved basketball. But we felt a need for a different kind of break. We opted for the movie. I do not

remember what it was. I remember it was entertaining. After the movie, we made our way through the snow and icy spots back to our room.

It had been a great couple of days. We went to meetings the next day and then made our way back home. Only much later did we learn our mistake.

Did you catch the mistake? Let me help you. West Baden is right next to another small town. Named French Lick. And in 1974, the local team had a senior who was pretty good. His name was Larry Bird.

Dennis and I could have watched Larry Bird play basketball as a high school senior. Instead we went to a forgettable and forgotten movie. We had no clue. But I think often about that choice. Movie.

High school basketball game. Oops. Larry Bird.

Still hurts.

Missed opportunities can do that. This one was not one we knew about for years. After all, we chose a movie. We did not knowingly reject Larry Bird. So we can live

with that. Some missed opportunities are much harder to deal with missing.

What if I had never asked Gloria out on a date? Pretty awful to think about. What if I had asked and she had turned me down because she had something else?

Would I have had the courage to ask her again?

Male ego and all? Scary thoughts.

But I did ask. And she did say yes.

I watch people turn down great opportunities all the time. Right in front of them and they ignore their chances. On Sunday morning. When they don’t make things right with God. The hardest step you will ever take is the first step going down the aisle of your local church. The second step is easy.

The thing about some great opportunities is you never know when it is your last chance. And you have to put up with Pluto Water forever. If you can find any. Don’t wait. Say yes to God.

A Moment with Megan: Fill My Cup Up

By Megan Blansit

Founder of The Beautiful Movement - a youth ministry for high school girls. For more information, visit The Beautiful Movement’s Facebook page, where I post the time, place, and activity for each month

My birthday was last Wednesday, I am now the big 2 5. Sometimes when I say my age that causes some anxiety. Lets be

honest, if you live in North Alabama you are suppose to be married and having kids by now!

When I was attending the University of Alabama at Birmingham, I found it humorous when I would come home on the weekends and visit my mom’s hair salon, in particular. I could always count on someone asking, “So are you married yet?” Of course my response would be, “no”. Then another question follows, “Well are you dating anyone?” I’ve often made the joke that I needed to write “single” on my forehead, to detour the reoccurring awareness questions.

I can’t say that this season of singleness has been the easiest or most pleasant, but I have learned to see this season as a gift. Marriage is a gift, just as singleness is.

A few days ago, I was filling up my Yeti cup for work and the Lord asked me, “What are you filling up on today?” I froze and pondered for a second.

Can I be transparent for a second? If I were honest, my response to that question would be, “negativity” and “worry”…. topped with a tad of “joy.” I have obviously been filling up

on the wrong things lately. Friend, being in any kind of leadership does not mean you are exempt from trials and temptations. I struggle with the same things you do.

See, what we “put in” always “comes out.” For example, if we fill our mind with negativity, guess what is going to come out of our mouth?

NEGATIVITY. If we fill our mind with happy thoughts, positivity will flow from our mouth! I know, I know, this isn't as easy as it may sound. We have to consciously think on positive things.

Philippians 4:8 says, “Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” Friend, there must be a powerful reaction to thinking positively!

In this season of singleness I strive to see the positives. Whatever situation you are facing, I challenge you to do the same. It is sometimes easier to “pour” doom and gloom into our cups

in the morning, but I challenge you to fill up on Christ. Fill up on positive thoughts and His Word. Do you know the awesome thing about seasons? Hallelujah, THEY CHANGE! Your season won’t last forever, friend. I have wondered if filling up on the right things would help our seasons change faster.

For example, what if I were more thankful?

What if I were more loving?

Maybe the examples I have mentioned don't relate to you. But maybe your cup is filled with fear, jealousy, unforgiveness, bitterness, or anger.

Many different things can fill up our cups. I don't know about you, but I want Christ’s love, purpose, peace, and joy to fill my cup up every morning! Because like I said previously, what goes in comes out. If we “drink” the right things, we will have positive outcomes. The Lord delights in pouring into you. Will you let Him today?

Friday–April 8, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

7

POLITICS Articles of Impeachment officially filed against Gov. Robert Bentley

By Joseph M. Morgan joseph@southerntorch.com

MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Impeachment charges were officially filed against Gov. Robert Bentley in the Alabama Legislature on Tuesday.

State Rep. Ed Henry (R-Hartselle) presented the proposed articles of impeachment at a news conference at the Alabama Statehouse in Montgomery yesterday afternoon, declaring Bentley “unfit to serve the State of Alabama.”

Henry, who is also a Republican, said the lawmakers are accusing Bentley of obstruction of justice by telling Alabama's former top cop to not cooperate with an attorney general's office problem.

For the past two weeks, Bentley has been the subject of a nationwide scandal that has reached fever pitch.

Bentley has been accused of having an alleged

sexual affair with former senior political advisor Rebekah Caldwell Mason.

The story has received extensive national media coverage, dominating Alabama news reports and making headlines all over the country.

“We’re looking at this governor who has essentially betrayed the trust of the people,” Rep. Henry said. “The only course the people of Alabama have to address this issue is through the impeachment process.”

Charges likely would have been filed sooner, but the Alabama Legislature just returned to session on Tuesday following a 12-day legislative spring break.

As Southern Torch reported on Friday, Henry made public last week his intent to file impeachment charges against the governor.

It is unclear at present whether or not Henry has the necessary votes

among his House brethren to pass the resolution required before impeachment proceedings could move forward.

What is clear, however, is that Bentley cannot count on blanket support from Alabama Republicans, either in or out of the Alabama Legislature. A number of GOP lawmakers have already openly condemned Bentley , and support among democratic legislators since the story broke on March 23 has been virtually non-existent.

Southern Torch will point out that while Bentley and Rep. Henry are indeed both Republicans, the two also have a long track record of repeated conflicts regarding Bentley’s attempts during the 2015 Alabama Legislative Session and ensuing 2015 Special Legislative Sessions to raise taxes in order to balance the Alabama budget.

Bentley’s aide, Rebekah Mason, announced last Wednesday in a statement through the governor's press office that she would be resigning immediately.

"I have resigned as Senior Political Advisor to Governor Bentley and will no longer be paid from his campaign fund,"

Mason said. "I have also ended my work with the Alabama Council For Excellent Government.

My only plans are to focus my full attention on my precious children and my husband who I love dearly. They are the most important people in my life. Thank you for your prayers for our family."

Despite Mason's resignation, Bentley said last Wednesday that he has no intentions of resigning the office of Governor. The resignation comes roughly two weeks after Bentley admitted to making inappropriate remarks to Mason, but denied any physical relationship.

Bentley's admission followed the firing of former Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) Secretary Spencer Collier from his post as Alabama's "Top Cop" for alleged misuse of state funds.

Following his dismissal, Collier reported to local media that Bentley had admitted to being involved in an extramarital affair with Mason.

The same day, March 23, audio recordings of the alleged Bentley and Mason affair were also leaked to the media. The governor can be heard making a number of sexually suggestive comments to a woman

named Rebekah on the recordings.

The phone conversation was reportedly recorded as part of a private investigation conducted on behalf of Bentley’s ex-wife in 2014.

Bentley said that he has no intention of resigning as Alabama's governor and plans to fight any effort to remove him from office through impeachment.

“There are no grounds for impeachment, and I will vigorously defend myself and my administration from this political attack,” Bentley said.

“Today’s press conference is nothing more than political grandstanding intended to grab headlines and take the focus away from the important issues the Legislature still has to address before the end of the session.”

Impeachment of a public official in Alabama is a very complicated, confusing multi-step process. Stay tuned for a Southern Torch article that provides a breakdown of the impeachment process and a simplified explanation of how it works. We will monitor this story closely and provide updates at southerntorch.com.

Alabama Attorney General rules “Draftkings” and “FanDuel” websites illegal

By Joseph M. Morgan joseph@southerntorch.com

Thrash Bail Bonding

Heath Thrash Call (256) 572-9996 or (256) 996-6699 102 Laverne Drive Rainsville, AL 35986

By Tyler Pruett MONTGOMERY, Ala.— In a statement released on Tuesday, April 5, Alabama Attorney General Luther Strange announced that paid online fantasy sports sites constitute illegal gambling under current state laws, ruling the “Draftkings.com” and “FanDuel.com” websites illegal.

Strange’s office issued a cease and desist letter to both DraftKings and FanDuel, ordering them to terminate operations within the state by May 1,

2016. The AG’s decision makes Alabama the twelfth state to designate the websites as gambling and deem them illegal.

The review came after two Birmingham men sued the websites over gambling debt owed; claiming that the websites were illegal under Alabama laws.

Legal representatives from both websites made the argument that building a fantasy roster requires a large amount of skill and does not qualify as a game of chance.

After a full review, Strange determined that users of the website have no control over the performance of the athletes, leaving the results up to chance.

“In Alabama, an activity constitutes illegal gambling if a person stakes something of value on a contest of chance, even when skill is involved, in order to win a prize,” Strange said.

“In paid daily fantasy sports contests, players

create a ‘fantasy roster’ of real-life athletes. Each athlete is awarded points based on his or her performance, and the ‘owners’ of the teams with the highest scoring rosters win cash prizes.

“There is, of course, a measure of skill involved in creating a fantasy roster. But in the end, contestants have no control over the performance of the players on their rosters.

For example, a player could fall ill before a game, be injured in pre-game warm-ups, or miss a large portion of the game due to injury or equipment failure. All of these factors, and many more, are outside the control of a fantasy sports player. Thus, the results of paid daily fantasy sports contests depend to a large degree on chance.”

Draftkings and FanDuel have until May 1, 2016 to cease all operations in the State of Alabama.

8

Friday–April 8, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

POLITICS

W F

Alabama Senate was all business on Tuesday Republicans override Bentley, pass several bills, including legislation to allow firearms in vehicles

By Joseph M. Morgan joseph@southerntorch.com

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Alabama Senate Republicans came out guns blazing on Tuesday, boldly overriding a recent veto from Gov. Bentley, then passing bill after bill in an impressive display of legislature in motion.

It was a long day, but the senate managed to execute an ambitious agenda of conservative legislative reforms aimed at strengthening individual rights, defending the rights of unborn children, preventing new taxes, and protecting and broadening Alabamians’ Second Amendment right to bear arms.

“It was a good day for the senate,” Alabama Senate Pro Tem Del Marsh (R-Anniston) said.

“We were able to pass a General Fund budget that did not raise taxes or raid the Education Trust Fund, and we were able to approve meaningful conservative reforms. I want to commend the members of the body for their diligent work and their commitment to a business-as-usual attitude that allowed us to pass a number of important bills.”

M P p 2 s d J L H C R i a R b J i W h P W b C W

M H H 3 s R H T H T p m

M A i M d S N

Protecting the Second Amendment Senate Republicans also took a dramatic step to protect the Second Amendment rights of Alabamians with Senate Bill 14, sponsored by Senator Gerald Allen (R-Tuscaloosa). Under this legislation, Alabamians would not need a gun license to carry firearms in their personal vehicles.

Alabama Sen. Phil Williams said the extension of the Castle Doctrine through SB14 makes it easier for persons to protect themselves and their property.

“We are laser-focused on passing conservative legislation that will save taxpayers money and protect the constitutional liberties of Alabama’s citizens,” Alabama Sen. Phil Williams (R-Rainbow City) said. “There are a lot of political distractions in Alabama right now, but Senate Republicans remain committed to passing conservative reforms to move the state in a positive direction.”

Protecting the rights of the unborn The Unborn Infants Dignity Act sponsored by

Sen. Bill Hightower (R-Mobile) in the senate and Rep. April Weaver (R-Brierfield) Alabama House of Representatives prohibits the sale of unborn infant body parts.

Hightower said the the legislation will prevent the harvest and sale of aborted fetus organs in Alabama—transactions like those uncovered in 2015 by The Center for Medical Progress in a series of secretly recorded videos that exposed top-level Planned Parenthood executives as they engaged in the practice of harvesting organs and selling them to the highest bidder.

General Fund Budget, prison reform The senate also voted overwhelmingly Tuesday to override Gov. Robert Bentley’s recent veto of the Legislature’s initial General Fund budget.

Just before last week’s legislative spring break, Bentley vetoed the budget, demanding an $85 million increase in Medicaid funding that would have significantly increased taxes.

Senate Republicans reversed the veto, approving a final budget

that Marsh said avoids new taxes and asks most state agencies to make “small, manageable” cuts.

Budgets will increase for some Alabama departments, however, including an increase in funding that will finally allow the first steps to be taken down the long road of needed reforms to Alabama’s dangerously overcrowded, antiquated prison system. The Prison Transformation Initiative Act, sponsored by Sen. Trip Pittman (R-Montrose) would provide significant upgrades to the Alabama corrections system and hopefully make Alabama prisons safer.

Pittman’s plan would replace over a dozen of the oldest prisons in Alabama with four newly-constructed, modern facilities. After completing a number of exhaustive cost-benefit and impact analysis studies, research projects that the construction of the new prisons would save taxpayers millions of dollars over the next decade, avoid federal intervention and make the state’s correctional facilities safer for inmates, officers and prison staff.

The proposed budget would also increase funding to better equip Alabama’s National Guard units throughout the state and improve the Alabama Department of Public Health.

Cracking down on predatory lending The senate also passed Senate Bill 91 sponsored by Senator Arthur Orr (R-Decatur to reform the payday loan industry by cracking down on predatory lending. SB 91 will require lenders to extend loan repayment periods to six months and begin accepting loan repayment via installments.

Orr says the new timeframe is more reasonable and will help borrowers avoid defaulting on short-term loans and prevent unfair, costly late-fee penalties.

“The legislative package passed today by Alabama Senate Republicans comprise some of the most ambitious and impactful conservative proposals put forth this legislative session,” concluded Senator Jabo Waggoner (R-Vestavia Hills).

Friday–April 8, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel Mrs. Leona Bell Phillips - 74 of Crossville passed away March 31, 2016. Mrs. Phillips is survived by niece/chosen daughter, Dawn and Jason Tidwell; niece, Leeann Williams; sisters, Hazel & Ray Hancock; Classa Thacker; Loretta & Randy Williams; sistersin-law, Glenda Weaver and Sally Brown; brother, Ronald & Shirley Weaver; brother-in-law, William Jones. She was preceded in death by her parents, Willie & Mary Weaver; husband, Houston Phillips; sisters, Reba Weaver, Lenda Jones; brothers, Timmy, Cleveland, & David Weaver.

9

DEATH NOTICES 4/8/16 Mike Nichols, Scott Schrader, Mark Shrader, Ron Shraer, Daniel Shrader, Stephen Shrader; as well as many grandchildren.

Mr. Jerry Don Sanders - 40 of Rainsville passed away April 2, 2016. Mr. Sanders is survived by his mother, Judy E. Sanders; sister, Dianne (Dennis) Godwin; brother, Steve (Betty) Sanders; niece, Emily (Jake) Fowler; nephew, Josh (Brittany) Clements; step nieces, Caitlin (Ricardo) Lopez, Lily & Zaelyn Lopez, Harper and Adliegh Godwin; step nephews, Cody (Jade) Godwin, Asher, Isaiah and Hixon Godwin; and great niece, Mia Flower.

Mrs. Vergenia “Sue” Hawkins - 62 of Valley Head passed away March 31, 2016. Mrs. Hawkins is survived by her husband, Rick Hawkins; son, Ricky Hawkins; grandchildren, Tott Hawkins, Frannie Hawkins, Jesse Clark and Taylor Clark. She is preceded in death by her mother, Marie Vaughn.

Mrs. Shirley Ann Davis - 68 of Section passed away April 2, 2016. Mrs. Davis is survived by her daughter, Rhonda (Jason) Atkins; son, Robbie (Mahala) Dunn; sister, Jo Ann Perry; grandchildren, Arionna (Alan) Posey, Zane Wheeler, Seth Atkins, Dylan Dunn; 1 great grandchild; special nephews; Charles, Lee and Christian Perry.

Mr. Stanley J. Nichols - 96 of Fyffe passed away April 2, 2016. Mr. Nichols is survived by his wife, Mary A. Nichols; daughter ,Nancy (Jim) Shrader; son, Nick Nichols; grandchildren,

Mrs. Charlene Swinford - 60 of Section passed away April 3, 2016. Mrs. Swinford is survived by daughters, Dana Pradhan and Rhonda Atkins; son, Eric Swinford; sisters, Sheila

Patterson and Edith Presley; brother, Ricky Underwood; 6 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Elva Swinford.

Miss Hazel Mary Jane Benefield - Rainsville, passed away April 4, 2016. Miss Benefield is survived by brothers, Dorrell (Marilyn) Benefield, David (Sandra) Benefield, and Wayne (Kaye) Benefield; 8 nieces and nephews and 10 great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Coleman and Ethel Dawson Benefield, step-mother, Nina Brown Benefield and sisters, Ovelle Benefield, Irene Lusk, and Ida Lee Adcox.

Mrs. Amanda J. Westfall - 38 of Fort Payne passed away April 6, 2016. Mrs. Westfall is survived by her husband, Michael Shawn Westfall; sons, Madison Shawn Westfall and Jacob Brook Westfall; father, Edward Lacy; sister, Jimmie King; brother, Shannon Lacy.

Rainsville Funeral Home Mr. Clyde Edward Wray - 69 of Scottsboro passed away April 1, 2015 at his residence. Mr. Wray is survived by daughters, Georgia (Wray) Duke and

husband Jason, Christy Wray; brothers, Johnny Wray and Gary Wray; sister, Carolyn (Wray) Adkins; 4 grandchildren, mother of children, Dorothy Mae Harrison; and special friend, Judy Adkins. He is preceded in death by parents William Wray and Annie Mae Wray; son, Mark Edward Wray and brother William Wray, Jr (Bill) Mrs. Linda Matthews - 67 of Fyffe passed away April 1, 2016 at Shepherd’s Cove. Mrs. Matthews is survived by husband, Danny Matthews; son, Randy Matthews (Leann); grandchildren, Courtney Willingham, Chase Willingham, Jesse Matthews and Jordis Matthews. She is preceded in death by her parents Sam and Bertha Mae Dickerson and daughter Cheryl Matthews Willingham.

Wilson Funeral Home and Crematory Mrs. Bernice V. Knight - 92 passed away March 31, 2016 at her home in Dogtown. Mrs. Knight is survived by her children, Becky (Fred) Green, Van (Donna) Knight, Cindy (Terry) McNew, and Janet (Burr) McConnell; grandchildren, Scott Green,

Kenny (Tanya) Knight, Lauren McConnell, and Samuel Joseph Knight; 1 great-grandson and 1 sister. She was preceded in death by her husband, Felton Knight; son, Gerald Knight; brother, John Robinson; and sister, Christine Fox. Mr. Julian Rigdon - 71 of Fort Payne passed away April 3, 2016 at his residence. Mr. Rigdon is survived by his wife, Betty Jean Rigdon; sons and daughter-in-law, Sidney D and Traci Rigdon and William Kevin and Nikki Rigdon; grandchildren, Nathan Rigdon, Brenna Rigdon and Laura Ellen Rigdon.

Mr. Cody Ledale Wells - 23 of Fort Payne passed away April 3, 2016. Cody is survived by his mother, Michelle Ortiz; father, Cory Wells; fiancee, Danielle “Channing” Ogle; son, Braxton Ryne “B-Man” Wells; brothers, Gage Howard and Nicholas Ortiz; grandmother, Mickey Brock; and many other family members and friends.

Mr. Harry Davenport Smith - 84 of Valley Head passed away April 4, 2016. Mr. Smith is survived by his wife of 51 years, Myra Bailey Smith.

Continued from page 1

Community shows love for Savannah Wiffle for Savannah Willingham Tournament A wiffle ball tournament will be held on Sunday, April 17, at the Field of Dreams in Rainsville beginning at 1 p.m. You can register a team by contacting Cody Coots at (256)899-3106 or visit http://www. fieldofnightmares. weebly.com. Deadline to register is April 13 and the registration fee is $40 per team. Each team consists of a maximum 4 persons with a fifth person as a batter only. In addition to selling chances at the

tournament, we will also have a bake sale, blow up houses for the kids, and much more going on that day.

Nick Saban autographed football raffle We are selling chances to win an authentic Nick Saban autographed football.

The drawing will be held on Sunday, April 17 at the Wiffle for Savannah Willingham tournament.

Chances are $5 each or 5 chances for $20. You do not have to be present to win. Tickets can be purchased at the Wiffle

Ball Tournament, or by calling Laura at (256)899-9899.

Redbasket.org Red Basket is an online charity organization that has told Savannah’s story and has it featured on their website. ALL contributions made through redbasket.org are tax deductible and you will receive a receipt for your donation. If you are a Woodmen Insurance policy holder and you create an account, Woodmen Insurance will match your donation of at least

$25, with an additional $25 gift. Savannah will receive 100 percent of the proceeds of her Red Basket account. This will help fund the building of a suitable, handicap accessible apartment for Savannah. Our goal is $10,000, so we need your help!

“Savannah’s Peek” Tshirts T-shirts supporting Savannah can be purchased by contacting McKinna Clifton at mckinna.clifton@gmail. com. Shirts are $15 each, sizes Small - 2XL (Add $2 for 2XL).

Savannah Willingham, Plainview High School, Class of 2016

Rainsville Freedom Fest 5k & 10k Run To be held on Saturday, June 18 beginning at 8 a.m. To register, visit www. rainsvillefreedomfest. racesonline.com. For more information about the run, contact Jerry Clifton at (256) 717-5650.

Savannah’s friends and family would like to thank everyone for their continued support.

Through prayers, support, and contributions the community can make this difficult time easier for those involved.

10

Friday–April 8, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Crossville is 4-0 in Area play

Madison Hunt struck out 13 in the game against Sardis.

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

Crossville 4, Sardis 1 CROSSVILLE, Ala.— The Crossville Lady Lions defeated Sardis in area play Tuesday night, 4-1.

Crossville sits on top of the area bracket with a record of 4-0.

Madison Hunt took the win on the mound with 13 strikeouts, one hit and 2 RBIs. Cassie McDaniel had one hit.

Toby Hicks had one hit.

Taylior Freeman had 1 RBI and Haley Bradley finished the game with one hit and 1 RBI.

North Jackson squeezes past Sylvania

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

North Jackson 4, Sylvania 3 HIGDON, Ala.— North Jackson scored a run late in the eighth inning to defeat the Sylvania Lady Rams.

Payton Davidson took the loss on the mound for

Collinsville Lady Panthers defeat Geraldine

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

Trinity Garner swings for the fence against Geraldine

Collinsville 4, Geraldine 3 GERALDINE, Ala.—The Collinsville Lady Panthers (16-7) defeated the Geraldine Lady Bulldogs (7-7) on Monday afternoon. It was the first game back after Spring Break and both teams were eager to

Fyffe Golf

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

Senior Chad Gray enjoys some golfing for the Fyffe Red Devils.

FYFFE, Ala.— Fyffe Golf is having a remarkable season. They boast a perfect 9-0 record. The teams scoring average at this point of the season is 171 on nine holes. Senior, Chad Gray averages 37.8 in matches thus far. The team consists of seniors

get back on the field.

Mary Patton took the win on the mound for Collinsville. She struck out three, walked three and only gave up two hits.

From the plate, Aryelle Jones scored her fourth homerun of the season. Trinity Garner was 2-2 with 1 RBI. Abigail Ford was 1-for-2 with a RBI.

Chad Gray, Mason Barber, Garrett Butts, Noah Guest, Eli Allen and Killian Viganek, junior E.B. Carroll, sophomores Jamison Durham and Dawson Westbrook and seventh graders Brody Coots and Jacob Mitchell.

“The team is a blast to be around and Coach” stated Head Coach, Shawn Wigley.

Shaping lives through Faith and Fitness

the Lady Rams despite striking out 10 in the seven innings she pitched. Bethany Davis hit a homerun for the Rams. Madison Burt went 2-for-4 with two singles. Sierra Murdock added a single and a double. Morgan Fraizer finished 1-for-3 for the night.

Sylvania and Plainview face in Tennis match

Jared Sharp of Sylvania serves against Plainview. Sylvania and Plainview faced each other in a tennis match Tuesday. Sylvania boys defeated Plainview 7-2.

Plainview girls defeated Sylvania 7-2

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

FORT PAYNE, Ala.—A couple of years ago Coach Shawn Turner posted a picture on Facebook of he and his wife that would ultimately change his life.

After seeing Turner’s photo online, an old friend that hadn’t seen Turner in a long time called excitedly to make an observation. He said, “Shawn!

You’re chubby like me now!”

The friend’s comment didn’t hurt Turner’s feelings, but it did wake him up. He was out of shape. His friend’s comment, and concern he already had about recently developed blood pressure problems made Coach Shawn Turner decide to make some life changes.

Coach Turner was no stranger to physical fitness. He had seven years of coaching experience. Turner helped coach at Shorter University for a number of years and is currently the running backs coach at Lafayette High School.

While at Shorter, he took the

time to ask a very muscular player on his team about his fitness secrets and diet plan.

Turner used this information, along with his own techniques and research on body weight management, and formed a plan.

After a few months, people started to see results in Turner.

Several friends wanted Turner to help them with a diet plan.

Turner felt led to help others on their path to physical fitness but was not really sure how to begin. Two friends, Rebecca Lowman and Carrie Crane asked him to come workout with them one day and show them his routine.

That was the beginning of Team Fit. The very first class only consisted of those three and nearly a year later, Team Fit has quite the following. They meet every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday at 6:30 pm.

Depending on weather conditions either at the Alabama Fan Club in Fort Payne or the Dekalb VFW Fairgrounds. Price is $20 per month. The “Fit” means,

formative, intensive, and training. Team FIT’s mission statement is: “As a group of hardworking, God fearing people, our mission statement is to simply do our best. We all have goals that we want to attain and we must put forth all our efforts to do so. Always thinking positive and encouraging others to put forth maximum effort. Simply stated, if you want it, you must work for it.”

After following the inspirational Team FIT on facebook, a group of employees from Southern Torch have committed to get in shape.

Everyone that we have talked to at Team Fit has been supportive and encouraging, but also honest about the level of commitment required and what it takes to reach your goals.

Turner explained that it took years to get in our present shape, and said we could reach our goals but that we shouldn’t expect to lose the weight in weeks. We know it will take a great deal of commitment and we are excited about the challenge ahead.

We will start attending meetings next week and will tell you about our progress monthly. Follow us in the paper and on Facebook as we start our fitness journey. As Coach Turner says, “Something is better than nothing!”

Catch of the Week!

Abby Hilyer, age 10, recently caught this big bass at Weiss Lake. Abby is the daughter of Emily and Landon Hilyer.

Submit your photos to marla@southerntorch.com to be our next Catch of the Week winner!

Friday–April 8, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Fyffe sails past Sardis

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

Fyffe 17, Sardis 9 FYFFE, Ala.— Fyffe easily defeated Sardis Monday night with a score of 17-9.

Brady Carson pitched 3.1 inning for the Devil win. He struck out 3 and walked 3. Ethan Jones pitched the final 3.2

innings striking out 3 and walking none.

At the plate, Dylan Kilpatrick led the team with 3 hits and 5 RBIs. Brant Rowell had 2 triples and 4 RBIs. Seth Benefield had 2 hits and 2 RBis. Jase Jones added 2 RBIs. Brady Carson, Tyler Ashley and Carter Hilley all had one RBI for the night.

SPOTLIGHT ON COACHES FYFFE, Ala.—The Southern Torch Coach of the Week is Coach Brad Thomas, Head Baseball Coach at Fyffe High School.

Coach Thomas graduated from Ider in 1999. He graduated from Snead State where he played baseball for 2 years. He transferred to Tennessee Temple where he continued his baseball career. Thomas received his Masters from Lee University.

Thomas said he had been married to his beautiful wife, Ashley Wigley Thomas for eight years. They have two children, Bella, 3 and Crue, 1.

Those who have spent time with Thomas say he is a Godly man on and off the baseball field. His favorite quote is “I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:14.

Southern Torch would like to wish Coach Thomas and the Fyffe Red Devils team best of luck during their season.

11

Geraldine shuts out Brindlee Mountain

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

Geraldine 15, Brindlee Mountain 0 BRINDLEE MOUNTAIN, Ala.—The Geraldine Bulldog baseball team shut out Brindlee Mountain on Tuesday.

The score was 15-0 after three innings.

“Their coach told me that we had just seen his only two pitchers,” Head Coach Jamie Gilbert said.

“So we called it after three innings of play.

Brindlee is very young and I certainly feel their

pain, we’ve been there.”

For Geraldine, Justin Murphy went 2-for-3 at the plate with 3 RBIs and one run scored. Luke Maddox went 2-for-3 with 1 RBI and one run scored.

Noe Guevara was 1-for-2 at the plate with 2 RBIs and two runs scored.

Cade White was 1-for-3 with 3 RBIs and two runs scored. Will Jacobs was 1-for-3 with 1 RBI and two runs scored. Matthew Malone was 1-for-3 with 1 RBI and one run scored.

Jordan Cookston added 1 RBI and three runs scored.

Sylvania Defeats North Sand Mountain

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

Junior, Brody Fulgham pitches against North Sand Mountain.

Sylvania 11, NSM 9 SYLVANIA, Ala.— Sylvania Varsity Baseball celebrated Senior Night with a win against North Sand Mountain 11-9.

Zach Mattox was the winning pitcher on the

mound and Brody Fulgham got the save.

Between them they had a total of 9 strikeouts.

From the plate, seniors Phillip Dendy went 3-for-4 with 2 RBIs. Levi Bass was 2-for-4 with 3 RBIs and Landry Bowen went 2-for-5 with 2 RBIs.

Dekalb County Invitational JV Champs

Pictured below are members of the Sylvania Championship team: Fischer Goza, Blake Spears, Eli Gurley, Drake Casey, Hunter McCurdy, Nathan King, Gareth Anderson, Blake Phillips, Bret Brown, Tyler Wilbanks, Blake McCurdy, Bo Jordan, Ethan Dover, Dawson Campbell, Jack McSpadden, Winston Wilks, Preston Holcomb, Coaches Nelson Gregory and Danny Moon.

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

GERALDINE, Ala.—The Sylvania Junior Varsity Baseball team, coached by Nelson Gregory and Danny

Moon, won the Dekalb County Invitational Tournament recently. The Rams beat Geraldine in first round of play but was defeated by Ider, placing

them in the loser’s bracket.

After defeating Fyffe, the Rams played two back-toback games against Ider to win the championship.

Sylvania Junior Varsity Rams has a 15-2 record and will finish up their season this week with two games against North Sand Mountain.

“The boys never cease to amaze me” said Head Coach Nelson Gregory. “Instead of getting down after they received their first loss of the year, they rallied and played three straight to win the tournament. I am proud of everyone-the boys, the coaches and especially the fans.”

HUNTER OF THE WEEK Tyler Pruett killed this turkey recently. It had a nine inch beard and one inch spurs.

Submit your hunting pictures to marla@southerntorch.com and you could be our next Hunter of the Week!

12

Friday–April 8, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH