THE SOUTHERN TORCH / FRIDAY, JUNE 3, 2016 / VOL. 2, NO. 23 / $1.00
COMMUNITY
FAITH
POLITICS
ALMOST 200 YEARS OF HOSPITALITY AND HISTORY
A FAMILY DISAGREEMENT
JUDICIAL COMMISSION TAPS JOHN CARROLL TO PROSECUTE MOORE
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DeKalb BOE prepares for SOUTHERN TORCH Alabama’s implementation FATHERS DAY PHOTO CONTEST TURN TO PAGE 2 FOR MORE! of "virtual" schools
New policy would allow former homeschool students to play AHSAA school sports By Joseph M. Morgan joseph@southerntorch.com
FORT PAYNE, Ala—The DeKalb County Board of Education met for a work session this Tuesday, May 31 to begin discussion regarding Alabama’s recently
passed legislation requiring all Alabama public school systems to establish a policy to offer some level of virtual school for high school students by the 2016-2017 academic year. School board officials are optimistic that the new
policy will benefit both students and Alabama’s public schools by allowing students to complete coursework online from locations outside of the school campus. These
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D.L. Stiefel will run for Rainsville City Council Place 2 By Tyler Pruett tyler@southerntorch.com
RAINSVILLE, Ala. — Rainsville citizen D.L. Stiefel has announced his candidacy for Rainsville City Council Place 2. He is a longtime resident of Rainsville and an active member of the community. Stiefel moved to Rainsville with his parents
in the early 1950’s as a child. He entered the U.S. Air Force in 1966. He spent four years serving during the Vietnam War. He moved back to Rainsville in 1971 where he’s lived ever since. While Stiefel’s children were attending Plainview, he was the president of the PTO and an officer in the band boosters. Along with
serving on school committees, he participated in the summer baseball program and officiating football games. He spent over 20 years on the Board of Directors for Rainsville’s original civic center. He was also a member of Rainsville’s JC Club and the Lion’s Club, in
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108th DeKalb Fiddlers’ Convention this weekend By Joseph M. Morgan joseph@southerntorch.com
More than 500 music fans are expected to attend the 108th anniversary of the DeKalb County Fiddlers' Convention this weekend hosted by the Big Wills Arts Council (BWAC) on Saturday at the Rotary Pavilion In downtown Fort
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Payne. Local musician and arts enthusiast Russell Gulley is said to have been responsible for reviving the event about 20 years ago, helping to bring it back to its former glory as one of the largest, most prestigious fiddle competitions in CONTINUED ON PAGE 2
The Southern Torch – Southern Torch, Inc. News every Friday. For Subscriptions: Call (256) 638-4040 or email subscriptions@southerntorch.com
THIS WEEK IN COMMUNITY
2016 Relay for Life Survivor Dinner a big hit in DeKalb DeKalb County Relay for Life hosted the 2016 Survivor Dinner Tuesday night. The Relay for Life Survivor Dinner is held each year to honor Survivors of cancer—those who have already beat it, and those who continue to fight. Event organizers Brian Baine and Kristy Poe, worked with a host of volunteers… Page 3 THIS WEEK IN POLITICS
Judicial commission taps John Carroll to prosecute Moore The Alabama Judicial Inquiry Commission (JIC) announced last Friday it had hired former U.S. Magistrate Judge and Samford University law professor John Carroll to prosecute the case against Alabama Chief Supreme Court Justice Roy Moore. Chief Justice Moore was placed on suspension earler… Page 8 THIS WEEK IN SPORTS
Valley Head is looking for new head coach After one year at the helm of the Valley Head Football Team, Coach Sam Graham resigns to take a job at Athens High School where he will help coach with his college roommate from University of North Alabama. Graham, a DeKalb County native, took the young Tigers… Page 10 PRESORTED STANDARD MAIL U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
PERMIT NO. 60 RAINSVILLE, AL
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Friday–June 3, 2016
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
Publisher, Joseph M. Morgan Layout editor, Dwayne Adams
BOE Work Session, from pg. 1 students will be allowed to maintain an academic track that will allow them to graduate along a traditional timeline and receive a diploma from their original school of attendance. Furthermore, although they may complete their coursework online, outside of their school from a remote location, these students will be allowed to continue their affiliation with their schools. Alabama is stepping up its virtual classroom presence throughout the state as a result of the recent legislation and local school boards across the state are preparing their policies just as DeKalb was working to do this week. The new law mandates that public school systems
offer more online instruction options that would allow students to complete coursework remotely or from their homes over the internet, while keeping their status as an official student of their local high school and the county school system and maintaining their rights to take part in any athletics or extracurricular activities the same as students who attend classes at the schools brick and mortar campus. Schools have found success using online courses to expand their curricula to offer more specialized coursework and accommodate students in need of credit recovery. And some have found creative ways to incorporate distance learning into their policies.
Alabama State Park’s Great Outdoors Day this weekend
Fiddlers Convention, from pg. 1 the Southeast. Last year’s event drew more than 400 music fans and even more are expected to attend the event this year. Registration starts at 11 a.m. and the first event begins at noon. Last year the event ran until after 6 p.m. showcasing 12 categories made up of more than 50 talented contestants who competed for the more than $3,500 in prize money and trophies. Contestants will compete in the following categories: Dobro Division, Pee Wee Fiddler Division, Mandolin Division, Ol’ Time Banjo Division, Jr. Fiddler Division, Guitar
Division, Upright Bass Division, Bluegrass Banjo Division, Sr. Fiddler Division, Ol’ Time Fiddler Division, Bluegrass Band Division and Ol’ Time Band Division. "We’re looking forward to another great year,” said BWAC Director Russell Gulley. “At one time the DeKalb County Fiddlers’ Convention was one of the largest, most widely attended events of its type in the tri-state area and throughout the Southeast. We are working to restore the event to its former glory and I feel like each year we get closer and closer.”
By Staff Reports
FORT PAYNE, Ala.— Enjoy a fun filled day in the great outdoors at Desoto State Park this Saturday, June 4, 2016 from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. as the park celebrates the annual Alabama State Park Great Outdoors Day. Join Alabama State Parks staff, volunteers & guest speakers for this great event showcasing all the many ways that adventures can be had in the Great Outdoors!
Come out to enjoy the park with demonstrations, live animal education programs, info tables, guided fitness & nature hike and much more.
Date: Saturday, June 4, 2016 Time: 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Where: DeSoto State Park, Fort Payne, Alabama. Picnic Area
Fee: $2.00 per vehicle for parking. No entrance fee for event. Great for all ages! For more details on activities, email or call 256.997.5025. Schedule on:www.alapark.com/ great-outdoors-day. Stay at an Alabama State Park! See www.Alapark.com for details on nearby accommodations.
Southern Torch Father’s Day Photo Contest
Do you have a great father-son or fatherdaughter photo that you’d like to share with our readers? Southern Torch is awarding a great prize to one lucky father this Father’s Day! To enter, post a photo of your dad (preferably
shown with his children, but not required) on our facebook page from June 6, 2016 - June 13, 2016. Then, along with your photo, tell us something nice about your dad — what makes him special, what makes him a great dad.
Our contest will end at 10 a.m. on the June 13 and the photo with the most likes will be our winner. I know there are a lot of great father’s out there so make sure you send in your photo’s.
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Friday–June 3, 2016
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
COMMUNITY
To submit community news, contact: news@southerntorch.com Tel. 256 638 4040 www.southerntorch.com
2016 Relay for Life Survivor Dinner a big hit in DeKalb
By Angie Reynoso angie@southerntorch.com
DEKALB COUNTY, Ala.— DeKalb County Relay for Life hosted the 2016 Survivor Dinner Tuesday night. The Relay for Life Survivor Dinner is held each year to honor Survivors of cancer— those who have already beat it, and those who continue to fight. Event organizers Brian Baine and Kristy Poe, worked with a host of volunteers and sponsors to to put this great event together and ensure that it was the great success that it was. Survivors and their guests were served an excellent dinner, then treated to live entertain-
ment, games and the opportunity to win some great door prizes. “It is a great way to meet and talk to others that know exactly what I have been through and continue to go through,” one Survivor who attended the event stated. Baine and Poe wanted to be certain to express their gratitude and sincere thanks to all of the volunteers and sponsors that made the event possible—a meaningful, special evening to honor and recognize those who show courage beyond measure every single day, those who inspire us with their incredible strength—those who are Survivors.
NACC to host 13th Annual Summer Latino Festival this weekend
By Joseph M. Morgan joseph@southerntorch.com
RAINSVILLE, Ala.— Northeast Alabama Community College (NACC) will host the 13th annual Summer Latino Festival: A Celebration of Latino Culture on Saturday, June 4, 2016, from noon until 4 p.m. on the NACC campus. The event, free and open to the public, will feature a Mariachi Band, live DJ, authentic dancers, delicious Latino foods sold by local restaurants, photo booth, Latino merchandise for sale, as well as free soft drinks and ice cream treats. For children, there will be arts, crafts, games and activities including a climbing rock wall, inflatables, face painting, giant Jenga, Mexican bingo, piñatas, pony rides, trackless train, and puppet show.
“The Hispanic community is a very significant part of the Northeast Alabama area,” NACC event organizers said. “They contribute to the economy and culture of our area. As part of the college’s mission as a community college, one way to reach out to this part of the community is to offer a day of fun activities, ethnic foods and music.” In the summer of 2004 the first Summer Latino Festival was held on the NACC campus. This June, 2016, is the 13th annual festival hosted. “This day is as much fun for local citizens and NACC students as it is for the local Hispanic community,” NACC organizers said. “In bringing the two cultures together, the best that we have to offer can be shared. NACC wants the Hispanic
community to know that they are welcomed to our campus as potential students and that their families are welcomed to all the events that are sponsored. This festival has helped both heritages understand and appreciate one another.” Tresha McClain, chair of the festival committee at NACC said that attendence has increased each year. “This past year there were approximately 1,500 people on campus to enjoy the games, pony rides, and arts and crafts,” McClain said. “One of the most popular activities each year has been free family photos. We have free refreshments for everyone, as well as local Mexican restaurants selling great food. “Our staff, faculty and students have taken on this project as part of their commitment and our outreach to the Latino community. This has truly been an education in understanding cultures for most of our staff. Each year our numbers grow in the involvement of our employees. The fun that is had by both cultures has made this annual event one that our campus looks forward to each year.” The Summer Latino Festival will be held this Saturday on the NACC campus located on Alabama Hwy 35 between Scottsboro and Fort Payne. NACC said that everyone is encouraged to attend and bring a lawn chair to enjoy a Latino cultural explosion at NACC. For more information, about this year’s event, visit: www. nacc.edu
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Friday–June 3, 2016
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
COMMUNITY
Two centuries of hospitality and history
Winston Place’s wrap-around porch has been looking over Valley Head for almost two centuries (Photo by Tyler Pruett) By Tyler Pruett tyler@southerntorch.com
VALLEY HEAD, Ala. — For almost 200 years, The Winston Place has been seen by many as the centerpiece structure of the Valley Head community. It’s rich history is intertwined with town itself. When the construction began in 1831, it was likely one of the only buildings in the immediate area. Even over a century later, the tall white columns and wrap-around porches stand out. Winston Place and the surrounding property is currently owned by Jim and Leslie Bunch. The property has been owned by Leslie’s family since 1944. The couple has since turned the historic home into a one-of-a-kind bed & breakfast. The home is a picture perfect example of what we think of “Old South.” It has seen every bit of history that’s passed through Dekalb County since its settlement in the early
1800’s. The first resident, William Overton Winston, was instrumental in the growth of Valley Head, Dekalb County, and even our state. Winston’s family moved from England in the late 17th century to Virginia. His family was of noble background, and had many notable figures in his family tree. Winston’s great aunt Lucy was the grandmother of Dolly Madison, while another great aunt, Sarah, was mother to Patrick Henry. You could easily say that the Winston family helped found America. Much like his ancestors, William O. Winston moved his family to what is now known as Valley Head in 1836. This was early in the history of our state, and likely made him one of the first settlers. With a nearby spring-fed stream and good pasture land, the spot would be the natural choice of any settler. During the construction of the house, no lumber was available for 50 miles, and had to
McCurdy house receives historical marker
brought in by wagon. Winston was an attorney by trade, and would often travel as far as Charleston, South Carolina for business. His work travel was so extensive that when the 3,000 acre farm was deeded from President Franklin Pierce, most of the control was given to Mrs. Winston since her husband was required to travel frequently. The family watched the area’s most significant historical events happen from their porch. Not long after moving into the home, 14,000 Cherokee Indians would pass by on a forced march west, which would become known as the “Trail of Tears.” Over twenty years later, the Civil War would come to Valley Head when 30,000 Union soldiers occupied Valley Head for three weeks. The home was used by the commanding general as a headquarters until the troops moved to Chattanooga. Two of Winston’s sons, George and William Jr., were killed fighting for the
June 3:
Relay for Life of Dekalb County - For the American Cancer Society. At the VFW Fairgrounds in Fort Payne from 6pm until midnight.
June 4:
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. 13th Annual Latino Festival - At Northeast Alabama Community College campus. Free admission, 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
June 4:
Senator Steve Livingston, Rep. Nathaniel Ledbetter, Rainsville Mayor Nick Jones and the City council at the marker dedication. By Dr. John E. Morgan Pastor–Collinsville Baptist Church
RAINSVILLE, Ala — Recently, the historic McCurdy House which sat at the intersection of U.S. Highways 75 and 35 in Rainsville was honored with a historic marker. The house was home to Mr. Edward Elijah McCurdy, who was instrumental in bringing two major highways through Rainsville, making it the town we
know today. The McCurdy House was placed on the Alabama Historical Register in 1978. In 1989, Bill Huber and Warren Thurman began work to move the building to their property to create a museum for the people of Rainsville and preserve the historic structure. But in January 1990, Mr. Huber passed away and in May of the same year, the house mysteriously burned to the ground.
carrying on the previous family’s military heritage. “It’s been an adventure running a Bed and Breakfast,” said Leslie, “It’s a wonderful historic home and original structures are still standing. We’re happy to be a part of this historical home.” “We’ve had a lot of interesting folks stop in,” Jim added, “We’ve had a New York Times writer stay with us, actors, and many other prominent people.” Winston Place is also a popular wedding venue, with many couples taking their vows in the large yard with the rolling hills and Lookout Mountain as the backdrop. Travelers who decide to stay the night at Winston Place are in for a unique lodging experience. No hotel can compare to staying at a place with such historical significance. The home and the family who built it were not only instrumental in settling the area, but contributed greatly to the growth of Alabama as a whole.
Upcoming events for the week of 6/3
June 4: The historic home of Mr. Edward Elijah McCurdy before mysteriously burning down over 25 years ago.
Confederacy, and are buried on the grounds. The elder Winston would also serve in the short-lived Confederate government. While the original family called Winston Place home, the best room was reserved for visitors passing through. Jim and Leslie continue this tradition of hospitality to this day. Travelers can enjoy the view of the town and the valley from its high, wrap-around porch. Looking to the northeast offers a picturesque view of the surrounding pastures and Lookout Mountain. The interior is decorated much like one would imagine the Winston family left it, with the addition of momento’s of the people that have called Winston Place home, including the current residents. Jim, who played football at the University of Alabama under the legendary coach Bear Bryant, has added memorabilia from his own storied past. The couple’s son also graduated from West Point and is currently an officer in the U.S. Army;
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 18:
Third Saturday Downtown Cruise-In - 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
June 18-19:
U.S. Team Roping - At the Northeast Alabama Agri-Business Center in Rainsville.
June 11:
June 23:
June 18:
June 25:
June 18:
June 25-26:
Powell Vegas Backwoods Festival - At the Rainsville City Park. Enjoy music and fun for the whole family. Henagar Public Library Talent Show - At the stage at Henagar Park from 5 p.m. - 10 p.m. For more information call Patricia Lacey 245-254-8172 or the Library at 256-6571380. 8th Annual Freedom Fest 5k & 10k - Registration and starting of race is at Broadway Baptist Church in Rainsville. Race begins at 8 a.m.
Rainsville Farmer’s Market - Opening Day 4 p.m. at the Rainsville City Park.
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.
Alabama Quarter Horse Association horse show - At the Northeast Alabama Agri-Business Center in Rainsville.
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Friday–June 3, 2016
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
FAITH
A Family Disagreement
By Dr. John E. Morgan Pastor–Collinsville Baptist Church
Mother. My three sisters made it into a six syllable word. Mooooottthhhher. Followed by an accusation against me. A false accusation. They always started it. They always hit me back first. Then they played their trump
card. “Mooothher. He’s hitting me. Talking to me. Make him stop.” And my mother would come in to see what was happening. You will be shocked to learn that sometimes she sided with my sisters. And I got punished. Sometimes there was a broken rule – no throwing a ball in the
house. And we both got punished. You will be happy to know that sometimes she sided with me. And they were punished. Justice. We might have thought she decided wrong. But we always accepted her judgment. I might have had my lip stuck out as I walked away. But she was mother. Her word was final. And there was another thing about her that made us accept her decision. Recently I was having a get-together with my sisters and some other family members. We actually get along really well with my sisters. Now that they have matured. Finally. I had written an article about my mother. I asked my sisters what they would have said about mother. There was immediate agreement. The one thing they each said was “love”. She was love. Unconditional love. I agreed. That was why it was easy to accept her rulings. Love. She loved us. We spent a lot of time telling stories at our get-together. We bring games. But what we mostly do is talk. And tell the old stories. One of the stories
revealed a disagreement about the facts. We agreed that my dad, uncle and grandfather went hunting. And that my uncle got hit with a couple of shotgun shell pellets and was knocked down. He was unharmed except for the pellets behind his ear. It had been told as a funny family story for years. But we disagreed as to who shot who. I had my version. My cousin had hers. We are both sure that our version is the right one. And the other one is wrong. We couldn’t call our parents and ask which story is right. Three are in heaven and the other does not remember well. There is nobody to set the story straight. So she left believing her version of the story. And I left certain my version is right. Where do you go when you can’t say moootthhhher? You just have to agree to disagree. Or, if you are like most Americans, you just disagree. And think how foolish the other person is. And get angry. That happens a lot because Americans do not want to accept anyone but themselves as being in charge. We are a country that has decided
to ignore God. There is a verse in the Bible that says, in those days there was no king in Israel. Everyone did what was right in his own eyes.* That’s where America is right now. Everyone does what is right in their own eyes. We make right and wrong a matter of majority – if 51% say something is right it is. Or emotions – if someone really feels they are a bird, let them jump off the roof. How dare you tell them they are not a bird. How silly that is. Deciding right and wrong on emotions. Or majority. The verse above – everyone did what was right in their own eyes describes Israel 3,000 years ago. And the result was chaos and rampant immorality. A culture with adults acting like selfish little children who constantly argue. Sound familiar? What America needs – what we need -- is someone in charge. Someone who knows what is right and wrong. Someone who will always love us. Unconditionally. We may not be able to say “moootthher”. But we can say “Our Father”. * Judges 21:25
and family events, I feel exhausted and I am only a week in. This has hit me heavy. Man, what a journey life is. A journey is full of ups and downs, busy and slow seasons, light and heavy times and this life and faith walk is nothing short of that. One verse that I keep falling back on tonight as I walk into what seems a busy season is Psalm 46:10. I hear God passionately speaking this into my heart and I want him to imprint it on yours also. In this verse, David relays a message from God to us which says, “Be Still, and know that I am God.” Wow, that verse gives me chills. I imagine my heavenly Father looking at us, in the midst of our busyness and fatigue, and says, “Child, be still. Child, slow down. Child, take the time to enjoy the one thing you are made to enjoy and thats me.” That is something that can stop you in your tracks. Children of God, our father doesn’t desire for
us to get amped up and exhausted and live life at such a pace that we can’t be fulfilled or enjoy it. Our Father knows too well that rest is essential for our fulfillment. Jesus speaks truth in John 10:10 when he says, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” The Father’s desire is for us to have a full and abundant life, not a fatigue and exhausted life. That life requires us being able to hit the reset button and find rest. This involves us learning to “be still” in the presence of the Father. The Father knows about rest more than any of us. He took a day off after creating the world in six days. He modeled rest for us. He knows how essential it is for us to “be still” and He wants us to learn that lesson today also! Brother, I want to challenge you this summer to slow down in the midst of work, vacations, and parties. Sister, I want to challenge you this summer to take a walk in the bright afternoon sunshine and allow God to rest your heart. My “adult” realization of how the summer season picks up
has really shaken my foundation and made me listen more intently for that invitation from my Father to “Be Still”. My heart is crying out behind these words for you to accept his invitation. It is beautiful that he knows how essential it is for us to rest but it’s even more beautiful that his invitation to slow down and stop pressing means that we get to spend time with Him. When we slow down, we surrender control of our lives and our chaotic rythm and allow Him to reset the rythm by pouring into us and providing for us. When we be still, then we have the opportunity to spend time with the King of Kings. He wants us in this place where He can have time with us and give us the love, mercy, and portion we need. He isn’t asking us to miss out on anything. He is trying to help us keep our lives in rythm with His rythm and when we walk in that place then our lot becomes more secure than it ever has. Be still today! As always, if you have any thoughts or questions then please send them my way at writingonpurpose@gmail.com. Have a great week!
Be Still
By Lucas Pruett
When I think of the summer, I think of how much excitement always approached as it slowly creeped closer at the end of a long school year. Summer vacation meant a break from the long days of books, classrooms, awkwardness and sports practices. Summer is still an exciting time for us all as we get older.
We get to escape the cold weather and enjoy sunshine and family events such as beach trips and family reunions. However, I have noticed that as this summer has approached things have not gotten relaxing but busier. This is the first summer of my life that I have consciously noticed how busy this time can be. Between work, weddings, dinner parties,
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT 6
Friday–June 3, 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
ADVERTISE here for only $1250/week!
CHAMBER CHATTER
June 1, 2016 Carol Beddingfield, Executive Director The news concerning some of the water departments in our surrounding areas can be very alarming. Eight Alabama communities were included in a new drinking water health advisory for certain man-made chemicals. These advisories were issued by the US Environmental Protection Agency. The warning instructed consumers that exposure to elevated levels of two synthetic compounds known as PFOS and PFOA, can lead to a number of health problems over time, including cancer in adults and developmental effect to fetuses and breastfed infants. These chemicals are used to manufacture non-stick cookware, stain-resistant products like Scotch Gard, fire-fighting foam, waterproof clothing and other consumer products. We are so fortunate in Fort Payne to have one of the safest, high quality water in our region. Our water comes from three sources. The primary source is Allen Branch Reservoir. Big wills Creek Reservoir is a secondary source used when the water table is low in the Allen Brach Reservoir. Third, we have a pipeline from the Tennessee River. The pipeline was constructed in 1996 for future demand from industry and the general public and to supply water during drought conditions. These three resources are valuable even in the recruitment of retail and industry to our area. We are also fortunate to have qualified management and employees to safeguard our water supply. Paul Nail is the General Manager and Brandon Light is the Water Plant Manager. The main office is located at 153 20th Street NE in Fort Payne. According to the Fort Payne Water Works Board, Fort Payne water is safe! Past results of testing for lead and copper revealed that our water has zero parts per billion of lead. The legal limit for lead is fifteen parts per billion. In most instances when lead and copper are detected, it is from the customers’ plumbing and not from the water system. The Water Department adds a corrosion inhibitor, as a secondary source of protection which further stabilizes our public water supply as it is delivered to the customer. If you would like your water tested for lead and copper contact Fort Payne Water Department to schedule such test at 256-845-0449. A third party company will provide the testing at a cost of $50.00 per sample tested. The customer is responsible for paying the charge.
RAINSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
June 2, 2016 Tim Eberhart, Executive Director
To the casual observer, that simple rationale seems to be the main factor whenever a new store, restaurant or other enterprise pops up somewhere. But, a lot more goes into the decision to start a new business. At least it should. You don’t have to have an MBA to know that a new business will attract paying customers only if there is a demand for their products or services. You don’t have to have an MBA to know that the customers a new business needs may need some help finding the business. Marketing 101 teaches that demand can literally materialize out of nowhere, but usually it does not. If you build it, you cannot expect customers to come unless you have an effective marketing strategy. Most of the time it takes more marketing than expected especially in a place where other businesses are probably already doing a pretty good job of fulfilling the demand. If you host an event, they will come. Often, that simple rationale seems to be the prevailing thought whenever some folks host a concert, festival or other public event. But, a lot more goes into hosting a successful event. At least it should unless you want the event to remain hidden from the masses. Like a business, a big event usually takes some demand and a lot of marketing. You don’t have to have an MBA to know that the event attendees you want to attract may need some help finding out about your event. If you are hosting an event in the Rainsville area– the kind in which you want to draw a large crowd–don’t forget to evaluate your marketing options. Like business marketing, event marketing may include advertising, posters, signs, web sites, social media pages, email campaigns, snail mail, press releases, public announcements, and sometimes much more. The Chamber wants to help. For the most part, when someone hosts a potentially large event in Rainsville, it’s good for our members and our community. So send us your event flyers, announcements, links, etc. We’ll gladly share them online and with those making inquiries. Furthermore, if you have ideas for how we can help make your event a successful one, please share them. Contact me at 256-638-7800 or timeberhart@farmerstel.com.
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Friday–June 3, 2016
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
OPINION/EDITORIAL
Letter to the Editor
Note from the Editor: The articles on this page are opinions submitted by readers of Southern Torch, and therefore do not necessarily represent or express the views of Southern Torch. They are the personal opinions of the individuals who wrote them. Would you like to weigh in on an issue? We encourage anyone who is interested in submitting an opinion piece or a letter to the editor, email us at editor@
southerntorch.com, or mail to PO Box 614, Rainsville, AL 35968. Include your name, a phone number and your address. Submitted by Sonjia Pittman 5/27/16
My desire at the Rainsville City Council Meeting on May 19, 2016 was to get some simple, straight forward answers on issues that many of Rainsville’s citizens, including myself, are interested in knowing.
Pick up your copy of The Southern Torch at any of the following locations: FORT PAYNE: Jacks North Foodland The Strand The Spot South End Market Western Sizzlin Los Arcos Mexican Restaurant Walgreen’s (inside) IDER: Foodland COLLINSVILLE: Piggly Wiggly Jacks DAWSON: Dawson Gas Station
GERALDINE: Jacks FYFFE: Jacks Fuel City MENTONE: Mentone Market VALLEY HEAD: Gas Station Tigers Inn HENAGAR: Texaco SYLVANIA: Gas Station
My main concern was to learn why our City Council members always seem to vote against our Mayor on issues concerning our budget, loans, and money in general. Fiscal responsibility is where our Mayor’s expertise lies and where he is able to offer the most sound advice for our City. This is totally ignored by our City Council. I was standing there thinking how much more productive it would have been if all Council members’ efforts striving to avoid answering my questions had been used to work with our Mayor and not just each other in getting goals accomplished for the overall betterment of our City. I am extremely concerned about the priorities of our Council members and their reasoning in general. There are obviously personal agendas at work here among our City Council. I feel that most anyone attending a City
RAINSVILLE: Southern Torch office McDonald’s Foodland Fuel City Hardee’s Shop & Save
Council meeting would immediately feel that our City was composed of 5 Council members united together against any and all desires or considerations that our Mayor may request or propose. Rainsville is very fortunate to have a Mayor who is qualified, experienced, and clearly striving to help our City grow in a positive direction. The Council should feel thankful to have him and his expertise to work with them for our City. I really wish that all concerned citizens of Rainsville would consider attending our City Council meetings to see first hand how this Council operates. It would be a real eyeopener to many of you that may have never attended. With an election coming up in August this would be the perfect time to acquaint yourselves with how our City is operating and attempt to satisfy your questions or
issues. The more people involved, the better for everyone. City Council meetings are held the first and third Mondays of each month. They are at 5:00 PM at the new City Hall annex building beside our City Hall. If you would like to have the opportunity to address your questions or concerns directly to the Council during a meeting, you must go by City Hall and fill out a form requesting to be on their agenda. This form must be completed, signed, and turned into City Hall 7 days prior to the next meeting. Our next City Council meeting will be on Monday, June 6th. I am thankful that I am blessed to live in Rainsville where I may feel free to request all of your prayers for our City. Hope to see lots of folks at the next meeting. May God bless us all and our wonderful City of Rainsville, Alabama !
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THE SOUTHERN TORCH
POLITICS Judicial commission taps John Carroll to prosecute Moore
By Tyler Pruett tyler@southerntorch.com
MONTGOMERY, Ala. — The Alabama Judicial Inquiry Commission (JIC) announced last Friday it had hired former U.S. Magistrate Judge and Samford University law professor John Carroll to prosecute the case against Alabama Chief Supreme Court Justice Roy Moore. Chief Justice Moore was placed on suspension earlier last month after the state’s commission on judicial ethics filed charges that Moore had violated ethics in his rulings actions on same-sex marriage last year. The United States Supreme Court struck down Moore’s ruling in a child custody case relating to the issue, and the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) filed a complaint when he ordered probate judges to ignore an order by the higher court to honor the marriages. The move to hire Carroll as prosecutor is being
regarded as politically motivated by advocacy groups and those in support of the embattled chief justice. The accusations are based on Carroll’s prior work history as the SPLC’s Legal Director. The Liberty Counsel, an Orlando based conservative advocacy organization, has filed a federal lawsuit against the JIC and is asking for Moore’s immediate reinstatement on constitutional grounds. The group also takes issue with Carroll’s past employment with the group that filed the initial complaint. In a press release on May 27, Mat Staver, founder and chairman of the Liberty Counsel stated their case against the actions taken against Moore. “The charges against Chief Justice Roy Moore must be dismissed. The JIC has no jurisdiction over an administrative order of the chief justice. Only the Alabama Supreme Court has jurisdiction, and that court agreed with the
order,” Staver said. “We are asking the federal court to strike down the automatic removal provision in the Alabama State Constitution and we are asking that Chief Justice Moore be immediately reinstated,” Staver said in the statement. While Carroll has worked for the SPLC, his employment with the organization ended in 1984, according to Samford University’s website. The retired judge served as a helicopter pilot in the U.S. Marines during the Vietnam War. He holds law
degrees from both Samford University and Harvard School of Law. Judge Carroll also has 14 years of experience as a federal magistrate judge. Ironically, Carroll was selected by none other than Chief Justice Moore to be a member of the Alabama Access to Justice Commission and the Alabama Professionalism Commission from 2014 - 2015. It is also worth noting that according to the JIC’s official rules of procedure, it’s the responsibility of the attorney general’s office to
prosecute charges filed by the commission unless there is a conflict of interest. As earlier reported, the ongoing scandal in the governor’s office along with the suspension of Moore has created a complicated situation as to who will oversee judicial proceedings. Moore has 30 days as allowed by the court to respond to the charges. While a court date has yet to be set, the suspended chief justice will likely not have his first court appearance until early fall.
Alabama Judicial Inquiry Commission selects former Federal Magistrate Judge and Samford Law professor John Carroll to prosecute Alabama Supreme Court Chief Justice Roy Moore, who has been accused of judicial ethics violations
Stiefel running for Place 2, from pg. 1 which he was president for two years. He was appointed to the Rainsville Industrial Development Board in 1983 and now serves as the current chairman. Stiefel has also owned and operated several small businesses in Rainsville. He was also on the Rainsville Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors from 2004 to 2007. He now serves on the board of directors as chairman for the Community Action Agency in Rainsville. According to Stiefel, his business and management experience would make him an asset to the City of Rainsville. He also has an interest in budget planning and bringing jobs to the
area by the means of industrial recruitment. “From my background in business management and consulting, I have an interest and wealth of experience in long-term budget planning, which could help with our current budgetary issues. I’ve managed multi-million dollar companies and have a lot of budget planning experience,” Stiefel said. “Being chairman of the Rainsville Industrial Development board has also given me experience in the area of industrial recruitment, and I’ll work hard to bring more businesses to our community,” Stiefel added. When asked, Stiefel also expressed support for
required meeting attendance for city councilmen. The issue had been brought up by a concerned citizen at the last regularly scheduled council meeting. “All these civic organizations and volunteer groups work and don’t get paid for it. City employees must show up or they don’t get paid. The city council should be no different,” Stiefel said. “I don’t know what the requirement should be exactly, and I know there is a grey area when things come up, but there should be some type of requirement,” said Stiefel. According to Stiefel, his motivation to run for office comes from his desire to
serve others. Not only has he served in numerous volunteer roles in the Rainsville community, he has also served in an executive role in many of these organizations. “Serving in the Air Force is where I developed such a strong interest in serving other people,” Stiefel said, “Since
returning to Rainsville, most of my free time has been spent serving others in some capacity.” Stiefel will be on the ballot on Tuesday, August 23 in the municipal elections. He’ll be running against opponent Bejan Taheri for the open council seat.
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DEATH NOTICES 6/3/16 Rainsville Funeral Home Mr. Ray Smalley - Age 72 of Henagar passed away May 24, 2016 at his residence. He is survived by sons, Norman Smalley and wife, Andra, David Smalley and wife, Summer, John Penton and wife, Pam; 7 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren; half-brother, Robert Baxter and half-sister, Karen Faye Chance. Mr. Smalley was preceded in death by wife, Mildred Williams Smalley; mother, Mildred Baxter and step-father, Robert “Dude” Baxter. Mrs. Peggy Thomas - Age 69 of Section passed away May 26, 2016 at DCH Regional Hospital. She is survived by daughters, Ronda Stephens and husband, Billy, Christy Hardy; special grandchild, Breanna Hardy; grandchildren, Chase Haynes, Randi Haynes; great-grandchildren, Gracie and Abigail. Mrs. Thomas was preceded in death by husband, Edward Thomas and parents, Edward and Frances Smith. Mrs. Pauline M. Galloway - Age 86 of the High Point Community passed away May 29, 2016 at Cherokee County Health & Rehab Center. She is survived by sons, Barnett Warren and wife, Susan, John Warren and wife, Robin, Charles Warren and wife, Patsy; 4 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. Mrs.
Galloway was preceded in death by parents, William McKinley “Mack” and Lora K. Mayes; brother, Harold “Buddy” Mayes, husband, John C. Warren and husband, James B. Galloway.
Burt Funeral Homes Mrs. Rebecca Prestwood Young - June 12, 1945 May 23, 2016. Mrs. Young is survived by her husband, Max W. Young; sister, Linda P. Kane (Bob); step-son, Jeff Young and nieces Elizabeth Irvin and Mary Chambers. Mrs. Bernice Christine Peek Campbell Davis - April 8, 1925 - May 28, 2016. She is survived by her sons, Ronnie (Teresa) Campbell, Rodney (Becky) Campbell and Robin (Karen) Campbell; 9 grandchildren and 11 greatgrandchildren. Preceded in death by husbands, Ronald Campbell and Augustus Jackson Davis; brothers, Carl Hobart (Red) Peek Jr. and Eugean Peek.
Home and Crematory Mrs. Jane Groat Camp - Age 72 of Fort Payne passed away May 24, 2016 at Brookwood Medical Center. She is survived by her husband of 52 years, Terry Camp; sons and daughters-in-law, Richard and Suzanne Camp and Willie and Kari Camp; granddaughters, Madeline, Mackenzie, Margaret Allen, and Taylor; brothers, John Groat, Thomas Groat, and Dick Groat. Mrs. Andrea Fortson Draper - Age 62 of Glencoe, AL. formerly of Fort Payne passed away May 30, 2016. She is survived by her son, Martin Draper; daughter, Leslie Draper and grandchildren Lily Draper and Jackson Draper.
W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel
Mr. Robert G. “Jerry” Ritchey - February 16, 1940 - May 30, 2016. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Joyce Ritchey; children, Charlotte Ritchey, Connie Palmer (Mike), and Abby Burtram (Stacey). Mr. Ritchey was preceded in death by parents, Walt and Bronice Ritchey and sister, Nancy Ritchey.
Mrs. Beulah Mae Bell - Age 89 of Rainsville passed away May 24, 2016. She is survived by her daughters, Norma Ables and Wanda McCue Gaither; grandchildren, Ray (Jennifer) Ables and Rod McCue; great-grandchildren, Skyler McCue, Lauren Ables, and John William Ables; and a host of nieces and nephews. Mrs. Bell was preceded in death by her husband, Lother Bell.
Wilson Funeral
Mrs. Genell Maddox - Age 82 of Fyffe passed
away May 28, 2016 in Gadsden Regional Hospital. She is survived by daughter, Pam and Jeff Buttram, daughter-in-law, Pam Maddox; brother, Dwight and Mary Ann Armstrong; grandchildren, Jamie (Doug) Benefield, Tammy Maddox, Hayley (Heath) Croft, Jonathan (Angela) Maddox, Chase (Jessica) Buttram, Casey Buttram and 14 great-grandchildren. Mrs. Maddox was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph Maddox; sons, Terry, Richard, Jackie and Stevie Maddox; parents, G.E. and Ruby Armstrong; sister, Shelby Parris and brothers, Arnold and Randall Armstrong. Mr. Steve Brown - Age 60 of Sylvania passed away May 29, 2016 at his residence. He is survived by wife, Lou Worthington Brown; uncles, John and Danny Robinette and aunt, Arlene Johnson.
Corner Stone Funeral Chapel & Crematory Mr. Terry Lee Welden - Age 58 of Ider passed away May 31, 2016 at Erlanger Medical Center. Funeral services are Friday at 1 p.m. at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel. Burial will follow in Welden Cemetery. Family will recieve friends from 1 to 8 pm Thursday and 10 am until service on Friday. Survivors include wife, Patricia Grimes Weldon; daughter, Stephanie Brady (Nicholas); grandchildren, Cyrus Brady and soon to be baby boy; sisters, Carolyn Drew (Roy) and Linda Branham (Ray).
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THE SOUTHERN TORCH
Valley Head is looking for new head coach
The Dekalb County Public Lake to reopen
By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com
SYLVANIA, Ala.— Many people around the Dekalb County area have been missing the breathtaking views from the Dekalb County Public Fishing Lake since its closure in 2014. The wait is finally over as the Lake will officially reopen on June 16, 2016. The Grand Reopening Celebration will be held on June 18, 2016 from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. There will be food vendors, arts and crafts plus live music. The Dekalb County Lake has undergone over two years of renovations by the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. The Lake is
Same Graham resigns from Valley Head to take a coaching position at Athens High School. By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com
VALLEY HEAD, Ala.—After one year at the helm of the Valley Head Football Team, Coach Sam Graham resigns to take a job at Athens High School where he will help coach with his college roommate from University of North Alabama. Graham, a Dekalb County native, took the young Tigers to the State playoffs and leaves with a
3-7 overall record and 3-3 regional record, as head coach. “Valley Head is a great place to coach. They have a bright future with the young men coming up,” said Sam Graham. “ I would like to thank Superintendent Hugh Taylor and Valley Head Principal, Bill Monroe for letting me work with the young men. I pray that they keep their eyes on the Vertical.” “Sam is a hard worker, he is a good man and good friend,” said Principal Bill Monroe. “I hate to loose him. He did
a good job for us. He led us to the playoffs for the fourth straight season. I wish him well in his new position.” When asked about the future of the Valley Head Football program, Principal Monroe said that he had interviewed eight very good candidates for Graham’s replacement. He will carry his recommendation to the June 7th meeting of the Dekalb County Board of Education and hopes to hire a new coach in the next few weeks.
Catch of the Week! Scout Moses, age 5, caught his first bass over the weekend. Submit your pictures to marla@southerntorch.com to be our next Catch of the Week winner!
now restocked and waiting on everyone to enjoy the fruits of the their labor. According to reports, over 3,000 largemouth bass, 100,000 Bluegill, 13,000 shell crackers and 3,500 adult catfish are ready for the avid fisher. The Lake offers so much more than fishing. It has great hiking trails, playgrounds for the children to enjoy, picnic areas for outdoor family time and campsites for a mini get-away. Runners and walkers alike can be seen enjoying nature at its best while getting in a little exercise. Make plans to attend the Grand Reopening Celebration and enjoy what Dekalb County has to offer.
Huge Success for RTI Mud Volleyball
By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com
RAINSVILLE, Ala.—Rainsville Technology Inc. (RTI) hosted their 4th Annual Mud Volleyball Tournament over the weekend. The tournament raised over $1800 for the Toys for Tots thru the Northeast Alabama Marine Corps. Twenty-three teams competed this year,which
is the largest since the tournament has started. Tournament play began at 9 a.m. with a large crowd of spectators and supporters and lasted late thru the evening. The 2016 RTI Mud Volley Tournament Champions are the Section Undertakers. The team, made up mostly of family members, claim the title for the second year in a role.
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THE SOUTHERN TORCH
This week in summer baseball
Future Stars of Baseball
Henagar Wildcats 9 & 10 Baseball: Bryant Burgess #20, Gavin Chambers #13,Wesley Gothard #10,John Godwin #12, Thomas Hester #15,Thomas Keith #35,Austyn Lindsey #36,Kyle Martin #4,Drew Sanders #7, Joshua Scott #5, Jackson Smalley #3, Logan Wilks #23 Coaches: Tony Keith, Roger Scott and Winston Wilks By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com
HENAGAR, Ala.— The Henagar Wildcat 9 & 10 year baseball team are the rising stars in youth baseball. The Wildcats are coached by Head Coach Tony Keith and Assistant Coaches, Roger Scott and
Brody Fulgham, from Sylvania along with several other schools in the county will be able to enjoy some summer baseball this week. By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com
DEKALB COUNTY, Ala.— Due to recent changes from the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) several county teams will be playing baseball in the month of June. In this weeks games, Fort Payne and Plainview will face off at Plainview, in a doubleheader, on June 6. The JuniorVarsity teams will play at 5 p.m. and the Varsity will follow after.
Plainview will then travel to Fort Payne on June 9 for another doubleheader, starting at 5.. Sylvania will face Geraldine on June 8 at home. The Varsity game will begin at 12 p.m. and the Junior Varsity will start at 2. The Sylvania Baseball Team will host a youth baseball camp starting on June 6, 2016. Coaches, please submit your Summer schedules and stats to marla@southerntorch.com
Winston Wilks. They are undefeated in their league boosting a 15-0 record. They are League Champions and County Champions. Seven members of the team went to the State All-Star Championship two years ago. From the mound; Logan Wilks, Joshua
Scott and Gavin Chambers shouldered the load as pitchers. Defensively, the Wildcats are also strong. They outscored their competition 186-28. They have 7 out of 12 batters that batted over .500 “This is a great group of kids and one of the strongest teams that I have ever coached,” said Head Coach Tony Keith. Since the Wildcats were League Champions they were able to choose additional players for their team from the league that consists of Sylvania, Ider, Valley Head and Henagar. They will play in the District 8 All-Star, June 17, 2016 at Hokes Bluff. Southern Torch wishes the team best of luck at District. We will continue to follow them as they prepare to win the State All-Stars!
FAN OF THE WEEK! Lance Dixson was spotted at the RTI Mud Volleyball Tournament held this past weekend. Lance is married to Jessica Kerby Dixson and they have two sons. Submit your picture to marla@southerntorch.com or look for our camera on the go, to be our next Fan of the Week.
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