THE SOUTHERN TORCH / FRIDAY, MAY 27, 2016 / VOL. 2, NO. 22 / $1.00
COMMUNITY
FAITH
POLITICS
RELAY FOR LIFE OF DEKALB COUNTY ONE WEEK AWAY
DO YOU KNOW?
RAINSVILLE COUNCIL ENDS 30+ YEAR RELATIONSHIP WITH BANK
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Southern Torch Newspaper celebrates
1-year Anniversary DEKALB COUNTY, Ala.— Southern Torch will celebrate one year of print publication this week. On May 28, 2015 Southern Torch rolled out a weekly
newspaper to broaden its reach and supplement an ever growing web-based news and video production. Founded in Rainsville,
Mentone one step closer to alcohol sales
Ala., Southern Torch launched in 2013 as the first true New Media news outlet in the region, quickly earning a reputation for providing the most
reliable, comprehensive online news coverage in DeKalb County, combining quality reporting with cutting edge video CONTINUED ON PAGE 2
DeKalb water determined safe for drinking
THIS WEEK IN COMMUNITY
RTI to host 4th Annual Mud Volleyball Tournament Rainsville Technology, Inc. (RTI) will host the 4th annual RTI Charity Mud Volleyball Tournament this Saturday, May 28 to raise money for the Toys for Tots organization. Tournament play will begin at 9 a.m. and all team members must be registered and signed in by 8:45 a.m. Last year's event brought… Page 3
THIS WEEK IN COMMUNITY
Mentone's traditional wheelwright
By Tyler Pruett tyler@southerntorch.com
MENTONE, Ala. — Thanks to a recent bill passed by the Alabama Legislature, the City of Mentone is one
step closer to alcohol sales. During the 2016 legislative session, Rep. Mark Tuggle (R–Alexander City) introduced HB 69 and earlier
CONTINUED ON PAGE 2
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By Joseph M. Morgan joseph@southerntorch.com
DEKALB COUNTY, Ala.— Last Thursday eight Alabama water systems, including two in Northeast
Alabama, were the subject of drinking water advisories issued by the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH), the CONTINUED ON PAGE 2
The Southern Torch – Southern Torch, Inc. News every Friday. For Subscriptions: Call (256) 638-4040 or email subscriptions@southerntorch.com
For nearly 50 years, Hoyle Smith, 72 and his wife Joyce have called Mentone home. While born and raised there, Smith had moved to Atlanta to work on an automotive assembly line. After the birth of their first child, Hoyle and Joyce wanted to raise their children in a better place, so they moved home… Page 4
THIS WEEK IN SPORTS
Plainview loses to rival Pisgah In a win-or-go-home third game of the State Championship series, Plainview fell to Pisgah with a score of 3-0 held on Friday, May 20, 2016. STATE Championship Series Game 1 In the first game of the Class 3A Softball State Tournament… Page 11 PRESORTED STANDARD MAIL U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
PERMIT NO. 60 RAINSVILLE, AL
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Friday–May 27, 2016
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
Publisher, Joseph M. Morgan Layout editor, Dwayne Adams
1 year anniversary, from pg. 1
Mentone closer to wet, from pg. 1
production. With the addition of the weekly print newspaper one year ago this week, Southern Torch has remained committed to providing the news, information, and coverage of community events, local government and sporting events important to readers in every community in DeKalb County—regardless of how large or small. “We are proud to celebrate this important milestone that marks the anniversary of our first year of print publication,” Southern Torch Editor and Publisher Joseph Morgan said. “By expanding our web-based operation to include a weekly print newspaper one year ago, we have taken our organization to a whole new level. Locally owned and available in every city and town in DeKalb County, Southern Torch is the only full-color newspaper in DeKalb County. Published each week on Friday, the 12-page, full-color publication provides the reporting of local news with solid, dependable
this month, Gov. Robert Bentley signed it into law. This is potentially groundbreaking legislation that will allow small municipalities like Mentone to serve alcoholic beverages. The Town of Mentone, with it’s thriving restaurant and arts scene, has long sought to serve alcohol within its city limits. DeKalb County is technically a dry county, despite Fort Payne and Collinsville selling alcohol. These towns met the criteria to hold a referendum vote, establishing alcohol sales within their city limits. State law requires a municipality to have a minimum population of 1,000 in order to hold the necessary vote, precluding Mentone in the past from holding a vote, as their population is at 364 according to the most recent data. The new law does not change the population requirement, but could allow Mentone to establish a “community development district.” The new law allows for several different districts which all have a separate criteria, but one seems to be tailored specifically for Dekalb County’s favorite mountain town: “‘Community development district’ also means a
information presented to readers in a unique format and vivid style. “We are extremely grateful to the thousands of readers in DeKalb County that turn to Southern Torch each week to get their news, both online and in print,” Morgan said. “By utilizing both mediums we have seen explosive growth as we continue to expand our audience and reach. We look forward to continuing to provide DeKalb County with the news and information that is important to our readers. Thank you for your support.” To celebrate reaching this milestone, for the next month Southern Torch will be offering a one-year subscription for the discounted rate of only $20. To take advantage of this limited time subscription offer, or for information about advertising with Southern Torch, call 256-638-4040 to speak with a representative today, or visit us online at www. southerntorch.com.
commercial district located in a dry county that shares a geographic border with another state, has an elevation of at least 1500 feet, and has a recreational waterway, specialty shops and restaurants, summer camps, and retreat centers, an art gallery, and annual festivals showcasing the area.” Local business owners are excited at the prospect of serving alcohol in their establishments. Laura Catherine Moon, owner of the famous Wildflower Cafe said, “Mentone is a quaint, nostalgic town and my only concern would be corporate business trying to move in and capitalize. On the other hand, it would help the revenue for Mentone and to keep monies we are losing to Georgia and Fort Payne.” While some are reasonably concerned about it allowing large chain corporations to move in, the community development district designation would allow the town control what new businesses move in; preserving the quaintness that makes Mentone so unique. The bill lays out the specific procedures for a municipality to apply and receive a community
development district status. As this law is newly on the books, it will take time to fully understand the procedures and guidelines. Mentone Mayor Rob Hammond has already begun the initial steps of the process. “Our attorney is currently meeting with the League of Municipalities to lay the legal groundwork,” Hammond said, “We’re trying to determine if individual businesses must apply or if we apply as a community.” “We must also determine who the governing body for the district must consist of,” he added. The law does establish certain guidelines for the qualifying districts such as only selling for on-site consumption and all tax revenues and applicable fees stay within the county, boosting revenue from tourism. This bill not only helps Mentone, but also could stimulate tourism across the state by helping many resorts and other attractions responsibly serve alcohol, and keeping the added revenue at the county level.
Water safe for drinking, from pg. 1 Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) warning that tests showed concentrations of perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). The advisories recommended that pregnant and breastfeeding mothers served by identified water systems consider using alternate sources of drinking water, but then were lifted Monday for five of the eight systems including the Northeast Alabama Water District in Fort Payne after the agencies issued another announcement revealing plans instead to conduct confirmatory sampling in two systems— Gadsden Water Works and Sewer Board and Centre Water and Sewer Board, Southside Water Works and Sewer Board, and the Utilities Board of Rainbow City. The original advisories applied to: West MorganEast Lawrence Water Authority, Gadsden Water Works and Sewer Board, Centre Water and Sewer Board, V.A.W. (Vinemont Anon West Point) Water Systems Inc., West Lawrence Water Co-op, Northeast Alabama Water District, Rainbow City Utilities Board, Southside Water Works and Sewer Board. Though Northeast Alabama Water District was listed initially as at risk for containing contaminants, the organization’s
general manager Johnny Jordan said DeKalb County residents were never at risk of consuming contaminated water. Following the initial advisory released last week, Northeast Alabama Water District located in Fort Payne was initially included among the water systems thought to be among those which might be contaminated because of a former purchase agreement with Centre Water Works which at one time served as a source of water for part of the Northeast Alabama Water District. “Several water systems in the state were named showing a presence of these chemicals,” Northeast Alabama Water District General Manager Johnny Jordan said. “The Northeast Alabama Water District was identified as one of these systems. It has been determined that the source was a connection to Centre Water Works which was serving a small area around the City of Centre. “Northeast Alabama Water District had a purchase agreement with Centre Water Works that expired in early April of this year, at which time we stopped receiving water from this source. I want to assure all of customers that Northeast Water does not have these contaminants present in any of our water.” PFOS and PFOA are man-made chemicals that resist heat, oil, stains, grease and water. They are found in products such as
nonstick cookware, carpet protection products, firefighting foams, and waterproof clothing. PFOS and PFOA in drinking water are usually from facilities that manufactured these compounds and industries that used them in their manufacturing processes. Dr. Jim McVay, director of health promotions and chronic disease ADPH, said Tuesday that agencies instead will "conduct confirmatory sampling" at Gadsden Water Works and Sewer Board and Centre Water and Sewer Board that provide water to Southside Water Works and Sewer Board, and the Utilities Board of Rainbow City. Following the release of the advisories, state officials reviewed water system data and talked to system officials to gather more information leading to the reduction of the eight-system list to just two systems, McVay said. Centre Mayor Tony Wilkie also released a statement indicating that any contaminants found in the system's drinking water in Cherokee County came from a source no longer used. "I'm confident the Centre Water and Sewer Board will continue to strive to give citizens the best quality of water possible and to meet any new regulations put forth by the EPA, ADEM and the Department of Health," Wilkie said.
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Friday–May 27, 2016
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
COMMUNITY
To submit community news, contact: news@southerntorch.com Tel. 256 638 4040 www.southerntorch.com
Relay For Life of DeKalb County one week away
By Joseph M. Morgan joseph@southerntorch.com
FORT PAYNE, Ala.— Relay For Life of DeKalb County will be held next Friday, June 3 at the VFW Fairgrounds in Fort Payne from 6 p.m. until midnight. The American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life movement is the world's largest and most impactful fundraising event to end cancer. Event organizers urge DeKalb County residents to come out and join in the fight to honor Cancer Survivors and remember those lost to the devastating disease. The event promises to provide food, fun and entertainment for the entire family. There will games, raffles and door prizes
and local band Still Kickin, featuring DeKalb County Probate Judge Ronnie Osborn, will be performing. Additionally there will be a dance-off between the Fort Payne Police Department, the Fort Payne Fire Department, and the DeKalb County Sheriff's Department. Relay for Life unites communities across the globe to celebrate people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and take action to finish the fight once and for all. With the support of thousands of volunteers, the American Cancer Society is helping save more than 500 lives a day.
RTI to host 4th Annual Mud Volleyball Tournament
By Joseph M. Morgan joseph@southerntorch.com
RAINSVILLE, Ala. — Rainsville Technology, Inc. (RTI) will host the 4th annual RTI Charity Mud Volleyball Tournament this Saturday, May 28 to raise money for the Toys for Tots organization. Tournament play will begin at 9 a.m. and all team members must be registered and signed in by 8:45am. Last year’s event brought out a strong crowd of spectators. Event organizers urge the community to come out and support the event and enjoy the
tournament. The tournament will be double elimination with each game scoring to 15 points. The co-ed event requires two females to be on court for each team at all times. Referees will be provided by the Plainview Volleyball Team. Last year 11 teams competed in the tournament and the event raised more than $1,000 for ARC of DeKalb County. The Haynes family from the town of Section stole the show in 2015, with so many family
members participating in the event they had to split into two teams. Even more impressive, the Haynes teams ended up taking first and second place after winning their respective sides of the tournament bracket and facing off in a very competitive final championship match. At the end of the day, the Section Undertakers defeated the Squad to become the 2015 RTI Mud Volleyball Tournament Champions.
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Friday–May 27, 2016
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
COMMUNITY
Mentone’s traditional wheelwright
Hoyle Smith of Mentone builds and restores antique wagons By Tyler Pruett tyler@southerntorch.com
MENTONE, Ala.— For nearly 50 years, Hoyle Smith, 72 and his wife Joyce have called Mentone home. While born and raised there, Smith had moved to Atlanta to work on an automotive assembly line. After the birth of their first child, Hoyle and Joyce wanted to raise their children in a better place, so they moved home. While his daily job was delivering the mail, Mr. Smith developed a fascination with traditional woodworking and horse-drawn wagons. Smith had experience with woodworking and carpentry, but had to start from scratch when it came to wagon-working. It all started 35 years ago, when his neighbor approached him with the remains of an antique wagon to rebuild. “It had completely rotted down and left only the metal parts,” Smith said. “While I had never worked on wagons, I was born in 1944 and we didn’t even have electricity until several years later, and a lot of folks still used a wagon and mules to get around, so I had an interest in them.” After Smith finished the woodwork on the old wagon, he parked it in front of the door of his house so he could use the porch light to work at night after finishing his duties as a mail carrier. He was left with only the wheels to complete. “I didn’t know how to go about rebuilding the wheels, and I had heard of an Amish man in Ethridge, Tennessee who could do the
work,” he said. Smith waited a full year after dropping off the remains of the old wheels in Tennessee before making another trip to check on the status of the repair. The Amish craftsman checked his list of work to complete and informed Smith that he had made it halfway up the list, and his work should be done in another year. “I told him that I couldn’t wait another year, and that the rest of the wagon had been blocking my front door,” Smith said. “Then he (the Amish wheelwright) told me, ‘well, it seems like you’re the kind that could build them yourself.’” He pointed Smith in the direction of a book that explained everything and a catalog of traditional hand tools used for to reproduce wagon wheels. After a little practice, the Amish man was correct in his assertion that Smith was the type that could build them himself. He turned his passion into a trade. “I’ve built hundreds and hundreds of wheels over the years,” Smith said. “I’ve restored many antique wagons and built many from the ground up.” “A lot of people say that I have a gift to do this… Well, I disagree. If your heart’s in it, you can learn to do anything. People will say, ‘I wish I was able to learn to do this,’ but if your heart’s in it, you can,” Smith said. Smith has several antique wagons in his personal collection. For younger generations, it can be strange to think about common brand names normally associated with cars and engine-powered
farm implements producing wooden, horse-drawn wagons. While many are familiar with antique machines bearing the Studebaker and New Idea name, it is not common knowledge that for decades these companies simultaneously produced wooden wagons. Mr. Smith owns one of each, and proudly displays a photo of a John Deere
wagon he restored for a customer. Walking in to Smith’s workshop, was like stepping back in time. Their was very few modern tools. Much of his equipment he had even built himself with the sole purpose of creating authentic wagon wheels. Over 50 wheels of various sizes were stacked along the walls; waiting to be fitted with the iron bands for future projects. Although the idea of a horse-drawn wagon seems simple, much goes into the engineering. The correct wood has to be used, and things have to be just right in order to distribute the weight properly. “If the spokes are not angled just right, the wagon will put all the weight on the spokes instead of the wheel; breaking them,” Smith explained. In this online age, we can find hundreds of videos and step-by-steps to learn any skill our heart desires. Daily consumers are bombarded by do-it-your-
selfs on social media. It is easy to forget that not that long ago, learning a forgotten skill meant serious dedication and ingenuity without all of the required information at your fingertips. Hoyle Smith is a reminder of not only a lost trade, but of the hard work and creativity that makes Mentone such a unique and great place.
Smith with his original Studebaker wagon
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Friday–May 27, 2016
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
COMMUNITY
Rainsville seeks help to complete walking trail
Upcoming events for the week of 5/27 May 28-29:
Northeast Alabama Cutting Horse Association Competition - At Northeast Alabama Agri-Business Center in Rainsville.
May 28:
CF Car Show - Saturday May 28th at Broadway Baptist Church in Rainsville from 10 am to 2 pm.
June 3:
Relay for Life of Dekalb County - For the American Cancer Society. At the VFW Fairgrounds in Fort Payne from 6 p.m. until midnight.
June 4:
By Tyler Pruett tyler@southerntorch.com
RAINSVILLE, Ala. — For those that haven’t heard, Rainsville has a new biking and walking trail in the process of completion. It is three miles long and circles the Northeast Alabama Agriculture Center. The trail will be great for runners and cyclist. It’s nearing completion this month, but volunteers are needed to finish up. Chris Johnson, who has volunteered his time to head up the project, is hosting a volunteer work day every Saturday from 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. until the project is complete. Task
left to do are spread gravel along the trail, building ramps across low spots, and putting up signs to designate the trail. “We’ll plan on spreading rock along the trail this Saturday before moving on to the other projects,” Johnson said. This task can be difficult, as the city does not allow for motor vehicles in the area, so gravel must be brought in and spread by hand. Volunteers should be prepared to work hard and bring their own stiff rake. “We still have a lot to do,” Johnson said, “We’ll
have carpenters come in to help with the ramps, but our biggest task at the moment is to get all the rock spread. If you are interested in volunteering or would like more information on the Rainsville Walking Trail, contact Rainsville City Hall at (256)638-6331. “It’ll give residents an opportunity to do outdoor activities,” Johnson said of the walking trail, “We don’t really have anything like that on Sand Mountain. It could grow and we could see other communities build their walking trails.”
Dekalb County Fiddlers’ Convention - Join the fun at the 108th Anniversary of the Dekalb Fiddlers’ Convention at the Rotary Pavilion in downtown Fort Payne. Admission is $10, children 10 and under are free.
June 4:
13th Annual Latino Festival - At Northeast Alabama Community College campus. Free admission, 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
June 4:
Movin for Mainstreet 5k/ Fun Run - The Fort Payne Mainstreet will be hosting a 5k Fun Run. This is a fundraiser for Mainstreet. Race begins at 8 a.m. at the Fort Payne Coal and Iron Building. 256-997-7481.
June 11 - 12:
Dixie Long Riders Mounted Shooters Association
Competition - MSA competitions at the Northeast Alabama Agri-Business Center in Rainsville. Free admission for spectators.
June 11:
Powell Vegas Backwoods Festival - At the Rainsville City Park. Enjoy music and fun for the whole family.
June 18:
8th Annual Freedom Fest 5k & 10k: Registration and starting of race is at Broadway Baptist Church in Rainsville. Race begins at 8 a.m.
June 18:
Third Saturday Downtown Cruise-In - 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
June 18-19:
U.S. Team Roping: At the Northeast Alabama AgriBusiness Center in Rainsville.
June 23:
Rainsville Farmer’s Market - Opening Day 4 p.m. at the Rainsville City Park.
June 25:
Rainsville Freedom Fest - At the Rainsville City Park and Tom Bevil Enrichment Center. Admission is free. The festival will conclude shortly after nightfall with a big fireworks show.
June 25-26:
Alabama Quarter Horse Association horse show At the Northeast Alabama Agri-Business Center in Rainsville.
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Friday–May 27, 2016
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
FAITH
Living the dream
By Dr. John E. Morgan Pastor–Collinsville Baptist Church
I will never preach all my sermons. I must write. I recently found those words in one of my old Bibles. I was working on a sermon, and I wanted to look back and see if I had previously had any special thoughts on the passage in James 1. Turns out I had. I
know that a lot of you do daily Bible readings. Thank you for your example. I also read my Bible pretty much every day. Have been doing that for many years. Somewhere along the way, I began writing in my Bible. My mother didn’t let me do much of that as I grew up. Now I write and underline and highlight a lot. And in the margins I write down
any ideas that come to me. Things that God shows me. I hope you know what I mean. You are reading a passage you have read several times before. But this time you see something brand new in the passage. Something you never realized was there. Because it is God’s living Word. If you leafed through a Bible I have read, you will see lots and lots of colors and writing and notes. I mean to come back later and use those insights. Sometimes I even have an outline with points numbered. All ready to be used in a sermon. Only I usually don’t go back. All those wonderful insights usually stay right where I wrote them in the Bible on a shelf. But this time I did look back in a Bible that had used about ten years ago. James 1 – be ye doers of the Word, not just hearers. And I had made a three point sermon outline on the text. Only I had never preached it. Then I noticed a note
at the bottom of the page that I had written to myself. Here is what I had written: I will never preach all my sermons. I must write. And I remembered the day I wrote that. I had realized I had a good outline that I would probably never use. Because there just aren’t enough Sundays to get all my sermons preached. I needed to find a place to write so that I can share more of what God was telling me. Do you have dreams in your life that you are sure God has put there? But they never seem to come to fruition? Ten years after I wrote those words, I did not have any new places to use my writing. Was I being too lazy? Maybe. Was it just not yet God’s time for me to write? Yes. But I thought maybe I would never have other opportunities. God had other plans. A new newspaper in DeKalb County, The Southern Torch was beginning. The publisher wanted to know if I could
help with a column on Faith. I suggested a couple of other people who I felt would do better than me. The publisher asked me to go on and write an article for the first paper, so I did. That was exactly a year ago today. This is my fifty-second article. I have loved doing this. It is sometimes hard, but it is always rewarding. Thank you for reading. And I will forever be thankful to the publisher for trusting me and giving me this opportunity. Most of all I am thankful to God. Who found a place for me to write. In His time. God has a dream for you. Write it down. Remind God that He gave it to you. Maybe He will give you an opportunity to fulfill that dream. In His time. And Happy First Anniversary to The Southern Torch. May you continue to shine the light of truth on DeKalb County.
attempted to give you something practical to practice. I hope that you have been offering up your “first five” minutes to resolve in the Lord. Jehoshaphat would be so proud of you. I want to shoot from the hip this week and just share a word from my heart. Here we go! I have been in a transition stage in my life and God the Father is taking me on a breathtaking journey of looking
deep within my heart. When traveling to those depths, I haven’t found only pleasant things. I have noticed that I have deep hurts that haven’t been dealt with, bitterness, and many bad roots. He is daily performing root canals on me and it hasn’t been a happy ride. Honestly, the shame in my heart makes me want to hide. It’s like Adam and Eve in the Garden after they have sinned. They go hide behind bushes as the Father approaches them. I can relate to that in this season. A big question I keep asking myself is: “Do I really know how much God loves me?”. That may seem like a trivial question to you. Bible school taught me the answer to that one and each Sunday that passes I’m reminded of God’s immense love through worship and sermons. However, its when I stop the noise and slow down that I have to think on the questions that we all should inventory our lives with. Do I really know though? Do I really believe that He DELIGHTS in me? Do I marvel in the fact that He uniquely designed me?
And just in transperancy, sometimes I’m not quick to answer yes to that. It feels my head has a lot of knowledge built up about the love of the Father but I wonder if my heart is really embracing that knowledge? I wonder as I write this if you feel the same way. If you had to ask yourself that question then could you really answer that you do know without a doubt that he loves you and knows you personally? Paul prayed a special prayer over the house church in Ephesus. He prays that God would help them “to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ” (3:18). I just love that description of the love of the Father. The process of embracing God’s love means that we will go on a journey to grasp width, length, height, and depth. It is all encompassing and ever present. We literally can not escape it. Out of that scripture and knowledge, I come back to my question. I’m sitting here now as I have many times and I ponder on that love that is deep, wide, long, high and a tear forms in my eyes. God, the one who created everything
and has amazing angels praising Him every single day for eternity, loves me individually and I can know it through the person of Christ. I can know that the Father is crazy about me because Jesus died and rose again. My hope can rest on that empty grave. Brothers and sisters, please lean into that truth with me. You can know the Father’s intense love for you by looking at the sacrifice of Christ. That empty grave shows that God is absolutely enamored by you. He thinks about you daily and delights in your journey. Through Jesus and his resurrection power, this truth can travel from your head and invade your heart. Child of God, join me in coming out of hiding. Today, we can be set free by the truth. Let us journey to the place where we escape the noise. In this place, the Father can whisper into our hearts: “I created you, I know you and I love you. You are my favorite creation and I delight in you. You are my child.”
Do You Know?
By Lucas Pruett
Last week was my first week as a columnist for the Southern Torch. I have heard some great feedback already and I’m thankful for that. Please remember that you are more than welcome to respond to my articles at writingonpurpose@ gmail.com. I will always answer and would love the chance to interact with you. For my first article, I purposely
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT 7
Friday–May 27, 2016
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
3 locations to serve you:
Rainsville 256-638-8600 Scottsboro 256-574-2679 Fort Payne 256-845-3350
THE FISHERMAN SOUTHERN GOSPEL QUARTET For bookings call: Glenn Smith (256) 572-6146 Check us out on Facebook
CHAMBER CHATTER
May 25, 2016 Carol Beddingfield, Executive Director Fort the 10th year in a row, the National Institute for Early Education Research has named Alabama’s voluntary First Class Pre-K program the nation’s highest quality state-funded pre-kindergarten program. Alabama’s First Class Pre-K program is one of only six states in the nation to meet or exceed all ten benchmarks. We are only the second state to do so for ten consecutive years. Being named the best in the country is an honor. But accomplishing that feat for ten consecutive years is only possible when everyone involved believes in the vision of the program and makes maintaining its success a priority. Strong pre-k systems, such as the one at Wills Valley Elementary, hold individual classrooms accountable. However, the teachers are not without support of the administration of the Fort Payne City School System and the leadership of Superintendent Jimmy Cunningham. Support also comes from Alabama’s Department of Early Childhood Education. This state department not only manages the program but also has built state of the art coaching and monitoring systems to make sure that all of its classrooms are reaching the highest level of quality. The National Institute for Early Education Research awards the ranking based on ten measures including lead teachers with a bachelor’s degree and specialized early childhood training; assistant teachers with a Child Development Associate credential; substantial professional development; and class sizes of 20 students or fewer. According to the Alabama Department of Early Education, half of Alabama’s First Class Pre-K students enter pre-k behind socially and academically. At the end of the school year, 95% of these students meet or exceed age level expectations for kindergarteners. Another study also confirmed that sixth grade students who were enrolled in pre-k consistently outperformed their peers in both reading and math. Pre-k students are more likely to graduate from high school and complete a college degree resulting in higher paying salaries as adults. The Alabama Legislature has approved a historic $16 million expansion of the voluntary program. 155 new high quality classrooms will be added next school year. 25% of the state’s four year olds will be able to participate in the pre-k program. Hopefully the Legislature will consider full funding for the First Class Pre-K program in the near future. Every child should have the opportunity for a “first class” education.
RAINSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
May 26, 2016 Tim Eberhart, Executive Director
On behalf of the Rainsville Chamber board, staff and members, I would like to wish you a monumental Memorial Day weekend. Memorial Day is one of the top four holidays that serve to remind us to be grateful for what others have done for us. It’s one of the top three holidays for reminding us how fortunate we are to be able to spend a fraction of our existence in this greatest of nations. For me, it’s one of the top two holidays for reminding me that there is hope that this nation’s greatest days may still be yet to come. Memorial Day is number one for reminding us that the official start of summer draws near. I hope you have a lot of fun summer stuff planned between now and Labor Day. Lots of watermelon, homemade ice cream, and perhaps lots of hanging out near large bodies of water. While you map out your summer fun, don’t forget to plan for a few of the local events that are coming up soon. A fun challenge is what you’ll find on June 18 at the Rainsville Freedom Run. Over 525 people have already registered to walk or run in the 5K or 10K, so it’s sure to be the fun place to be that morning. You’ll find fun for the whole family at the Rainsville Freedom Fest on June 25 at Rainsville City Park. People are expected to come from as far as Fabius and Aroney to see the grand fireworks show at 9 p.m. Valley folks are invited, too. There will be other festive activities all afternoon including a big car show, food and crafts vendors, pony rides, inflatables, and more. Please turn to the festival page at rainsvillealabama.com frequently for details and updates. The Rainsville Farmers Market fun kicks off on June 23. It will be held each Thursday through the summer at 4 p.m. at the city park parking lot. We have a fun new member to report this week. It’s Sand Mountain BBQ, located at 1012 Main Street West in Rainsville. That’s at Alice Circle at the corner of Rainbow. Owners Steven and Sherry Strother offer dine-in and carry out while it lasts on Friday and Saturday only, from 5 to 9 p.m. Think mouth-watering pulled pork, ribs, and smoked chicken.
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Friday–May 27, 2016
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
POLITICS Rainsville Council ends 30+ year relationship with bank
By Joseph M. Morgan joseph@southerntorch.com
RAINSVILLE, Ala.— The Rainsville City Council voted last week to end a 30+year relationship with the city’s bank, First Bank of the South, following news that the bank would be merging with the bank where Mayor Nick Jones works as a loan officer, First State Bank. The Rainsville City Council voted 4-2 in favor of severing the longtime relationship with the Rainsville bank and transferring all of the cities accounts to First Southern State Bank. Councilman Brandon Freeman was the only member of the council to vote against ending the relationship with the Rainsville business. The motion was brought forth by Councilman David Holt. Holt, who has announced that he will not be running for re-election to the council, said the purpose of the move was to avoid what he envisions could be a future potential conflict of interest. Jones said precedence in other municipalities in
Alabama where similar situations have arisen dictate that a continued relationship with the bank would be completely appropriate because the business relationship was established decades prior to the merger. To be certain, Jones said he reached out to the Alabama Attorney General’s Office to confirm that continuing business with the bank would not be inappropriate. “In an effort to ensure that this business transaction would not create a conflict of interest in my role as mayor of our city, I sought guidance from the Alabama Attorney General’s Office,” Jones said. “I found three separate opinions and a new state statute that pertain to this particular subject. It is my belief that the city’s relationship with First Bank of the South, which will become First State Bank, is appropriate especially given that the relationship began long before this business transaction was initiated.” The council discussed
the fact that Councilman Roger Lingerfelt owns stock in First Bank of the South, a fact that did not deter the council from ending the relationship when Lingerfelt was elected four years ago. Jones told the council that the conflict could be avoided and the city could continue its relationship with the bank by simply removing himself from any future negotiations or votes that deal with transactions between First State Bank and the city. Ultimately, the solution would fall upon deaf ears, with the council moving forward to end the more than 30-year relationship with the bank. In other business, the council voted against approving a contract drawn up by the mayor to hire a new city attorney. Mayor Jones recommended DeKalb County native and local attorney Matt Mitchell for the job of city attorney, but the council denied the recommendation to approve the contract refusing to hire Mitchell for the job.
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DEATH NOTICES 5/27/16 Burt Funeral Homes Mr. Alvin Peoples - September 2, 1918 - May 17, 2016. He is survived by his sons, Benny (Rita) Peoples and James (Judy) Peoples; grandchildren, Melissa (Jeff) Hann, Jessie (Lori) Peoples, Andrea (Donald) Byrd, Deanna (David) Jackson and Ryan Peoples; great-grandchild, Evelyn Averett; sisters, Ethel Jones and Rosie Peoples and brother, Joe Peoples. Mr. Peoples was preceded in death by wife of 57 years, Azalla Peoples. Mr. Albert T. Jones Jr. - September 29, 1927 May 21, 2016. Survivors include wife, Katherine Maulden; children, Albert T. Jones III (Joyce), David Jones, Lawton Davis (Pam), Paul Davis, Michael Davis, Marilyn Hodges, Frances Frost, Connie Brown (Richard), Dena Battenberg (Akos) and Tony Chesser (Vikki); 14 grandchildren, numerous great and great-great grandchildren; brothers, Edgar Jones and Marion Jones. Mr. Jones was preceded in death by daughters, Melissa Jones and Shirley Phillips; wife, Phyllis Jones and sisters, Edna Mae Norman and Sara Chester.
W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel Mrs. Mary Veronica Black - 52 of Crossville passed away May 17, 2016. She is survived by her sommer Hope Black; sons, Seth Michael Black and Steven Heath Black; sisters, Sandra Engle, Melissa Taylor, Rachel (Jason) Bloodworth, and Tina Saint; brother, Thomas (Nicole) Coody; grandchildren, Landon O’Connor, Trinity Hand, Veronica Hand, Tony Hand, Kenley Black, Eli Black, Bryson Black, and Braylen Black. Mrs. Black was preceded in death by her mother, Mary Coody; father, Clyde Black; granddaughters, Kiley Black and Charlie May Black; grandson, Ethan Lamar Black; sister, Faith Black; brother-in-law, Robert Engle. Mr. Lewis Julian Boyles - Age 75 of Keener, AL. passed away May 18, 2016. Mr. Boyles was preceded in death by his father, L.V. Boyes and mother, Grace Boyles. He is survived by his beautiful wife of 58 years, Jimmie Boyles, whom he loved dearly; children, Cindy (Oland) Summerall, Lisa Boyles, Darlene Butler, Alan (Susan) Boyles, Tara (Bobo) Noojin, Greg (Karen) Boyles, Pam Cardwell, and Greta Wright; 13 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews.
Mrs. Andrea Clark - Age 49 of Harvest passed away May 18, 2016. She is survived by husband, Thomas Clark; daughters, Megan (Jonathan) Reasoner, Angie Useltan; son, Donnie Burns; parents, Donnie & Linda Oldham; mother-in-law, Marie Armstrong; grandchildren, Logan, Aidan and Olivia and a beloved dog, Rambo. Mrs.Clark was preceded in death by her sister, Debbie Oldham. Mrs. Betty Jean Anderson - of Henagar passed away May 21, 2016 at her residence. She is survived by her daughters, Ann and Jeff Dillard and Connie and Joey Sparkman; son, Edward and Lisa Anderson; grandchildren, Troy Anderson, Lucas Anderson, Seretha Davis, Jeremiah Nix, Craig Jennings, Justin Jenkins, Erica Dillard, Felisha Sparkman, Rachel Sparkman and Kelsey Sparkman and 5 greatgrandchildren. Mrs. Anderson was preceded in death by Lamar Anderson, Linda Faye Anderson, Myrtle Harper and Darfus Baugh. Mrs. Mary Ed Ledwell - Age 82 of Henagar passed away May 21, 2016 at her residence. She is survived by daughter, Kay “Sissy” Anderson; son, Tommy “Knocky” Ledwell; brothers, Paul (Kay) Bailey; grandchildren, Jonathan (Shasta) Ledwell, Stephanie Kirby, K.J. (Carla) Ledwell, Amber (Nick) Dover and great-grandchildren. Mrs. Ledwell was preceded in death by her parents Johnny and Vera Bailey; brother, John Bailey; sisters, Amy Sue Carrizales, Vera Mae Goss, Brenda Lanier and granddaughter, Sara Jo Whitt.
Wilson Funeral Home & Crematory Mr. Briggs Parrish Chitwood - 89 of Fort Payne passed away May 17, 2016 at his home. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Betty Graves Chitwood; daughter's, Detha Chitwood Mika and husband, Jon, Linda Chitwood, and Beth Chitwood Thomas and husband, Bryan; grandchildren, Jonathan Mika, Nicollette Waller, Cole Howard, Shawn Thomas and Jordan Thomas; 3 great-grandchildren and brother, Ray chitwood. He was preceded in death by his great-grandsons, Cameron and Logan Mika.
Corner Stone Funeral Chapel & Crematory Mr. Raymond Francis Clark - May 14, 1931 May 19, 2016. Age 85 of Bryant passed away at his
home May 19, 2016. Mr. Clark was preceded in death by his parents, Edwin Richard Clark and Gertrude (Mattmiller) Clark; sister, Florence Mary Clark; brother, Edwin Richard Clark (JoEtta) and son-in-law, Keith Sherman. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Joanne Agnes (Kelso) Clark; daughter, Deborah Sherman, Patricia (Perry) Kinsey, Diane (Tres) Scheibe; son, Roberts Michael (Connie) Clark, 10 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.
Rainsville Funeral Home Mrs. Connie Gregory - April 22, 1968 - May 19, 2016. Age 48 of Rainsville passed away May 19, 2016 at her residence. She is survived by her husband, Labron Gregory; daughters, Mikayla Brown and husband, Ethan, Kaitlyn Gregory; step-son, Ethan Wright; step-daughter, Brittney Goza and husband, Andrew; father and step-mother, Mac and Ann Smith; brother, Michael Smith; sisters, Sharon Smalley and Kim Smith; parents-in-law; David and Peggy Gregory. Mrs. Gregory was preceded in death by her mother, Julia Smith and brother, Bo Smith. Mr. Thomas Edward Cox - January 18, 1927 May 19, 2016. Age 89 of Pisgah passed away May 19, 2016 at his residence. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Mary Cox; sons, Eddie and Tim Cox; daughter, Kim Thornhill and husband, Joe; sisters, Sybil Presley and Janice Gross; 4 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. Mr. Cox was preceded in death by his parents, John Calvin Cox and Nannie Pearl Jones; siblings, Billy Jack Cox, Ted Cox, Charles Cox, Moline Arnold and Juanita Wheeler. Mr. Will Biddle III - Age 35 of Rainsville passed away May 19, 2016 at Henagar, AL. He is survived by 2 sons, Brady Lee Biddle and Urijah Cade Biddle; daughter, Taylor Audrey Biddle; mother, Angela Smith and husband, Gary; father, Lee Biddle and wife, Brenda; sister, Andi West and husband, Ben; step-sisters, Mary Noojin and husband, Matt, Angel McInnes and husband, Jeff; stepbrother, David Troup and wife, Christy; grandmother, Ina K. Carlyle and 11 nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by grandparents, Willard Biddle, Sr. and Bonnie J.J. Carlyle. Mrs. Reba Maxine Timmons - 92 of Fyffe passed away May 20, 2016 at Centre, AL. She is survived by son, Kenneth Timmons and wife, Dianne; daughter, Sherry;
sisters, Mary Will Powers, Shelby Jean Gilley; 6 grandchildren; 12 greatgrandchildren and 11 great-great-grandchildren. Mrs. Timmons was preceded in death by husband, David Lester Timmons, son; Morris Ray Timmons; parents, Perry and Mindy Williamson; grandson, Johnny LeCoy Higgins; brother, George Lee Williamson and sisters, Vera Weems and Daisy Bryant. Mr. Kenneth Trotman - Age 53 of Rainsville passed away May 21, 2016 at Gadsden Regional Medical Center. Mr. Trotman is survived by son, Josh Trotman and wife, Tiffanie; daughters, Ashley Chaparro and husband, Justin, Casie Stone; brothers, Johnny Trotman, Tony Trotman, David Trotman, Charlie Trotman; sisters, Kathy Marbut, Patricia Taylor and 6 grandchildren.
Mr. Harvie Noles - 86 of Rainsville passed away May 23, 2016 at Gadsden Regional Medical Center. Survivors include wife of 59 years, Bobbie Noles; son, Timothy (Jack) Noles; daughter, Sharon Noles and husband, Phillip; daughter-in-law, Nancy Noles; grandchildren, Matthew Noles and wife, Ameila, Grace Ann Noles, Josh Brown, Lola Noles, Ava Noles, Tiffany Rooks, Brandon Rooks and William Rooks and 3 great-grandchildren. Mr. Noles was preceded in death by parents, C.E. and Dovie Noles; brothers, Ernest Noles and Joseph Noles and sister, Emma Noles.
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Ider fell to Sumiton Christian in State Finals
Local Student Qualifies for National Rodeo Finals
Ider pulled their team out of the loser’s bracket to face Sumiton Christian in the State Semifinals game. By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com
MONTGOMERY, Ala.— The Ider Lady Hornets fell 9-3 to Sumiton Christian in the Class 2A Softball State finals. Ider had battled thru the loser’s bracket and had to defeat Sumiton Christian twice to win the Class 2A Championship. They fell in the first game of the championship series but took home the Class 2A State Softball Runner Up trophy. STATE Championship Series Game 1 The Lady Hornets faced Horseshoe Bend the first game of the state championship series on Thursday morning, May 19, 2016. They defeated Horseshoe Bend, 9-1 to advance to the semifinals against Mobile Christian Lady Leopards. Horseshoe Bend and Ider was at a standstill until the bottom of the fourth, when Shelby Hawkins came across the plate making the score 1-0. At the top of the fifth, Ider had the 2-0 advantage. The Lady Hornets scored five runs in the fifth giving them the 7-0 lead over Horseshoe Bend. In the bottom of the sixth, Horseshoe Bend found home plate making the score 6-1.
In the seventh, the Lady Hornets turned on the heat and scored three runs to make the score 9-1. STATE Championship Series Game 2 After nearly a 3-hour delay, Ider started their second game of the day against Mobile Christian Lady Leopards. ‘ In the first, Mobile Christian jumped to an early lead when all three batters singled bringing one across the plate for the first score making the score 1-0. In the second, Ider scored to tie the game with a double by Morgan Flynn to bring home the tying run. The score was tied 1-1. In the fifth, Ider scores two to make the score 3-1. Kayla Norman received her 25th win of the season from the mound. The final for the game. Ider would then play their third game on Friday against Sumiton Christian at 10:30. STATE Championship Series Game 3 The Ider Hornets faced Sumiton Christian on Friday, May 20, 2016. In the top of the sixth, they trailed 1-0 in the sixth and was put into the loser's bracket when they were defeated 5-2. They would face G.W. Long in their next game.
STATE Championship Series Game 4 and 5 The Ider Lady Hornets defeated G.W. Long to come out of the loser’s bracket and to face Sumiton Christian in the state semifinals. Since they had been beat once in the series, they had to win both games against Sumiton Christian to bring home the blue trophy. Ider cashed in on a run first by a drive by Kaylon Brown to bring home Savannah Hood. Sumiton took the lead advantage in the third scoring two runs. Ider quickly answered back with two runs giving the Lady Hornets the one point advantage. In the fifth, Sumiton added a run to tie the game, 3-3. The game remained at a standstill until the seventh inning when Sumiton Christian scored six runs, to win the game 9-3. The Lady Eagle finished as State runner-up for the second year in a row. They will lose four seniors this year. Four of Ider players were named to the All-Tournament Team; Senior Kayla Norman, Senior Mackenzie Hughes, Junior Shelby Hawkins and Sophomore Crystal McElhaney.
Harley Wilkins, a twelve year old from Rainsville, recently qualified for the National Rodeo Finals. She is pictured with her trusted team mate, Mitzy during competition. Submitted photo By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com
TROY, Ala.— Harley Wilkins, a sixth grader from Plainview, qualified for three events at the Alabama State Rodeo Finals over the weekend. The Junior High Rodeo Association takes place nine months out of the year. In this sport, you are a team of two, yourself and your trusted four legged team mate. The High School
Rodeo Association offers scholarships in all fifty states and from two provinces of Canada and Australia. In the 2016, National finals, all areas will be represented. Wilkins qualified in three events; poles, barrels and rifle shooting. She will compete in June at the Junior Nationals to be held in Lebanon, TN. Rodeo is not the only sport that she loves. She also plays basketball and is a member of the Junior Beta Club.
Patterson is new Terrapin Junior Champion
FANS OF THE WEEK! Easton Samples can be spotted at most all of the Plainview games supporting his Bears. Easton is a sophomore at Plainview. He is very active in team roping and has won several competitions. Submit your photo to marla@southerntorch.com to be our next Fan of the Week.
Elle Kate Patterson wins Terrapin Hill Junior Championship. Submitted Photo By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com
FORT PAYNE, Ala.— Elle Kate Patterson recently won the Terrapin Hills Junior Championship shooting a 75 and 78 for the two day event. There were four males and one female in the tournament. Elle Kate led with a 75 after the first day by one shot over Dawson Garret who shot
a 76. It was a close match on the second day between Patterson, Garret and Harrison Davis. Patterson never let the score get within two shots all day. Elle had a 3 shot lead going into the last hole. Garret hit his final on 18 into the water and sealed his fate. The scores for the two days are as follows: Patterson 75/78, Garret 76/80 and Davis 79/79.
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Plainview loses to Jones goes to Alabama rival Pisgah
Ethan Jones will be a preferred walk on at the University of Alabama this football season. Pictured are from left to right: Kim (Mother), Emma (sister), Head Coach Paul Benefield, Ethan Jones, Jovie (sister), Jase (brother), and Billy Jones (Father). By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com
The Plainview Lady Bears made it to the third game of the State Championship that was held in Montgomery over the weekend. By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com
MONTGOMERY, Ala.— In a win-or-gohome third game of the State Championship series, Plainview fell to Pisgah with a score of 3-0 held on Friday, May 20, 2016. STATE Championship Series Game 1 In the first game of the Class 3A Softball State Tournament, held on Friday, May 20, 2016, Plainview defeated Prattville Christian, 3-2. In the first inning, Annabelle Brown got on base with a walk. Kenzie Traylor and Bailey Smart got on base due to errors bringing in Brown for the score. Kennedi Traylor brought little sister, Kenzie in with a single. Lacee Kirk brought in Smart with a single. Making the score 3-0 as the first inning was completed. In the third, the Prattville Lady Panthers put two points on the board. Kenndi Traylor took the win on the mound, only allowing two hits and a walk in the last four innings of the game. STATE Championship Series Game 2 In the second game of the Class 3A Softball State Tournament,held on Friday, May 20, 2016, Plainview faced the Dale County Warriors. They were defeated by the Lady Warriors, 8-4. STATE Championship Series Game 3
In the third game of the Class 3A Softball State Tournament,held on Friday, May 20, 2016, Plainview met a familiar foe, the Pisgah Lady Eagles. Plainview had faced Pisgah five other times during the season, winning 2 out of 5. After walking two of Pisgah’s players, and the score was 1-0 in the first, Bailey Smart was replaced on the mound by Kenzi Traylor. Plainview drew a couple walks to put Kennedi Traylor and Casey Eddings on base with no outs. There was a strike out and a grounder to end the Bear scoring threat. In the third, Macy Anderson hit a homerun in the third to make the score 2-0. In the fifth, Pisgah got two hits to make the score 3-0. Plainview seemed to have a chance for redemption in the seventh but errors and strikeouts gave them their fourth loss to Pisgah to end the series. Lacee Kirk went 2-for-3 at the plate and had 2 doubles, Bailey Smart and Tobi Trotter both finished the game with 1-for-3. Senior, Casey Edding finished her softball career at Plainview with a single, walk, and was hit by a pitch. She will continue her softball career at Shorter University.
FYFFE, Ala.— The Fyffe Athletic Club recently hosted a college signing day for their seniors who will continue their football careers. Ethan Jones will head to the University of Alabama as a preferred
walk-on. Jones is the salutatorian of his class and will major in either electrical or aerospace engineering. He leaves Fyffe as a member of the senior class with the most wins in football and baseball in school history. “I have enjoyed
coaching these guys so much,” said Head Coach Benefield. “ They have a lot of class and I look forward to seeing them play in college.” Jones and his family both expressed that they are extremely blessed with the opportunity that he has received.
Carson signs with Birmingham-Southern
Brady Carson recently signed with Birmingham-Southern to continue his football career. Pictured are from left to right: Stephen Carson (Dad), Coach Paul Benefield, Brady Carson, Sherry Carson (Mother) and Dillion Carson (Brother) By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com
FYFFE, Ala.— The Fyffe Athlectic Club held a signing party on Friday for Brady Carson who has committed to play football for Birmingham-Southern University. Carson will major in math education and hopes
to return to the area to teach and coach either at the high school or college level. “This senior class has lots of class,” said Fyffe Head Football Coach Paul Benefield. “I enjoyed coaching these guys and I can’t hardly handle seeing them leave as they graduate.
Carson leaves Fyffe as a member of the winningest senior class in football and baseball. “This opportunity is a blessing,” said Brady Carson. “To go from having a torn ACL during football and not getting to play to where I am now, I am extremely blessed.”
Catch of the Week! Collin Blalock caught this big fish recently with a little help from dad, Craig. Can you tell Collin is a little excited? Submit your pictures to marla@southerntorch.com to be our next Catch of the Week winner.
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