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Google breaks ground in Jackson County The 7th Annual First State Bank 5K Run/Walk Fun Run is set for Saturday, April 28 at DeKalb Lake in Sylvania. Make plans to run in memory or in honor of a loved one!
FPPD identified man involved in chase
By Staff Reports
Photo from the groundbreaking on Monday at Google’s new data center in Bridgeport! (Contributed Photo)
By Tyler Pruett Managing Editor BRIDGEPORT, Ala. — On Monday, Google broke ground on a new data center right here in our backyard! Governor Kay Ivey, Representative Tommy Hanes, Senator Steve Livingston, U.S. Rep. Mo Brooks, Rep. Ritchie Whorton, and Jackson County Officials along with representatives from
>> THIS WEEK IN SPORTS
Google attended the groundbreaking ceremony in Bridgeport, Alabama at the construction site, on Jackson County Road 96. The new facility will be part of a network that helps run Google services like YouTube and Google Drive; with the later being used by millions of businesses worldwide. We caught up with Senator Steve Livingston (R - Scottsboro) earlier this week to discuss the economic impact the new
•Brothers Resign as Head Coach
data center could have on Jackson County and Northeast Alabama as a whole. Livingston represents much of DeKalb and Jackson Counties, and was near the process to bring the tech giant to Northeast Alabama. When I asked how many people the new data center is expected to employ, Sen. Livingston said, "They are expecting to provide 75 to 100 new jobs to the immediate area."
>> THIS WEEK IN COMMUNITY
I asked if Google had invested in to local education, Livingston said, "To date, they have invested $250,000 in local schools. At the announcement this week alone they presented a check for $100,ooo.00 to the Jackson County Board of Education for the local STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and
•From the Mound •First State Bank 5K
•Shred Day!
• Old Timers' 5th Annual Gridiron Classic
•NACC Summer Registration is Here!
Officials Discuss implementing "Emily's Law"
Tax Enforcement and Animal Cruelty investigator Clayburn Simpson discusses the new law’s implications at this morning’s meeting of the DeKalb County Commission. (Tyler Pruett | Southern Torch)
FRIDAY 4/13
73 • 59
SATURDAY 4/14
74 • 56
SUNDAY 4/15
59 • 39
FORT PAYNE, Ala. — (Video on our Website) At this week’s meeting of the DeKalb County
Commission, DeKalb officials discussed implementing recently signed into law Senate Bill 232, or “Emily’s Law.� The law seeks to allow for some dogs to be declared
>> CHASE, P2
Police officers receive Human Trafficking Training
>> GOOGLE, P2 •Mentone Arts & Cultural Center Events
By Tyler Pruett Managing Editor
FORT PAYNE, Ala. — The Fort Payne Police Department issued a statement on Monday’s chase: On Monday, (April 9, 2018) at approximately 9:50 am Officer Dalton Veal attempted to initiate a traffic stop in the 800 block of Gault Ave South on a white pickup truck.
The driver of the pickup failed to stop and continued north on Gault Ave. The driver made a series of turns throughout the city of Fort Payne and eventually continued north on Greenhill Blvd exiting the city limits.
“dangerous,� and expanded penalties for owner’s of these dogs when they kill or maim another human.
>> EMILY'S LAW, P6
Police Officers from local departments receive instruction on human trafficking from former Federal Agent Rick Tate of the Alabama Human Trafficking Task Force. (Contributed Photo)
By Tyler Pruett Managing Editor FORT PAYNE, Ala. — Last Thursday, police officers from all over DeKalb County took part in Human Trafficking Training at the Fort Payne Police Department. A representative from Homeland Security provided instruction on "The Blue Campaign" and Alabama Human Trafficking Task Force Director Rick Tate also provided training on how to spot the signs of trafficking. The training was coordinated by the DeKalb County Chiefs of Police Association and conducted in two separate classes at the Fort Payne Police Department. Officers from Fyffe, Sylvania, Fort Payne, Hammondville, Rainsville, Powell, Mentone, Collinsville, Henagar, Geraldine, and Crossville took part in the training. Officers received 3 hours of APOST credits for attending the course. The convergence of several major highways in DeKalb County, along with I-59 passing through, makes our area part of the frontline in the war on human trafficking. These classes were the first to be held in DeKalb County on this critical issue. The "Blue Campaign" is an initiative by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to combat human trafficking. According to literature from DHS, "Blue Campaign is the unified voice for the DHS' efforts to combat human trafficking. Working in collaboration with
>> TRAFFICKING, P2 Visit our website at www.southerntorch.com for daily news updates and pick up your weekly print edition at news stands every Friday.
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FRIDAY–APRIL 13, 2018
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
CHASE from Page 1 Several Fort Payne Officers, Fort Payne Detectives, Hammondville Police Officers, Dekalb County Sheriff’s Deputies, Mentone Police Officers and Chattooga County Sheriff’s Deputies all assisted in trying to stop the suspects vehicle. The vehicle continued across Lookout Mountain into Georgia where it was eventually spiked by Chattooga County Deputies. The driver of the pickup jumped and ran from the vehicle and was detained, he was identified as Dennis John Johnson, age 43 of Albertville. During the apprehension of Mr. Johnson, he was found to
TRAFFICKING from Page 1 law enforcement, government, non-governmental, and private organizations, Blue Campaign strives to protect the basic rights of freedom and to bring those who exploit human lives to justice." While many think of sexual exploitation when they think of human trafficking, the representative from DHS also stressed the need for officers to be alert for labor smuggling. As the agent explained, local businesses, such as those in the poultry industry for example, may smuggle groups of illegal workers in to work for lower wages and without paying taxes. While this may not seem as urgent of an issue as sexual exploitation, these illegal
Dennis John Johnson (43 of Albertville) is facing multiple charges after a high speed chase crossed into Georgia. (Marshall County Sheriff's Office)
have a handgun in a holster in his left hand. While vehicle pursuits are rare in the city of Fort Payne, Chief Bynum states all of our officers did an outstanding job while trying to bring Mr. Johnson into custody. Mr. Johnson’s charges for the Fort Payne Police Department and the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office are: • (Felony) Leaving the Scene of an Accident which Involved a Fort Payne Police vehicle leaving the roadway and coming to workers both take jobs from legal U.S. workers and are themselves exploited for very little pay. The DHS representative also highlighted the differences between "human trafficking" and "human smuggling." Trafficking is defined as, "sex trafficking in which a commercial sex act is induced by force, fraud, or coercion, or in which the person induced to perform such act has not attained 18 years of age; or the recruitment, harboring, transportation, provision, or obtaining of a person for labor or services through the use of force, fraud, or coercion for the purpose of subjection to involuntary servitude, peonage, debt bondage, or slavery." "Human Smuggling," is defined as, "the importation of people into the United States involving deliberate evasions of Immigration Laws. This
e r o dm
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rest in a field • Four Counts of Attempt Assault in the First Degree, stemming from Mr. Johnson trying to run into officers during the pursuit while on his escape route • (Convicted Felon) One Count of Certain Persons Prohibited to Carry a Firearm • One Count of Attempting to Elude • One Count of Reckless Endangerment There will possibly be more charges pending out of the City of Fort Payne and DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office and he has several charges in Chattooga County. Mr. Johnson is currently being held in Chattooga County Detention Center and then will be extradited back to Fort Payne. offense includes bringing illegal aliens into the United States as well as the unlawful transportation and harboring of aliens already in the United States." In essence, the difference between "Smuggling" and "Trafficking" is that smuggling is transportation based and trafficking is based on exploitation. Law enforcement officers were given cards with information on the indicators of human trafficking, with separate cards for medical indicators for fire/EMS. Recognizing the combined signs will help first responders accurately alert local or federal authorities. Your actions could save a life! Report suspicious activity to local law enforcement or call 1-866-347-2423.
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GOOGLE from Page 1 Mathematics) Program." Livingston also related that the economic impact would not be limited to only those employed at the plant. When asked how he expected this might affect the Jackson County economy, he said explained that, "for every direct job you generate, it's estimated that it creates two to four ancillary jobs." 'Ancillary' jobs means indirect jobs created. For example, if one person in the area gets a job with improved income at the new facility, that person will spend more money on goods and services in the area. A new facility will also have to contract with area companies as well for routine things such as cleaning, office supplies, etc. This added revenue for businesses in the surrounding area leads to more indirect jobs being created. "Some people even use numbers closer to five ancillary job per every job created. That could mean anywhere between 200 additional jobs created and 500," Livingston said. "They are partnering with TVA for green energy onsite, so that will also benefit another local employer." Livingston was also asked about the incentives it took to bring in a big name like Google, "I'm not familiar with the particular tax incentives in place for this facility, but we have a tax incentives for data centers that were utilized, along with industrial access grants in place. He also said that Alabama's business climate in general helped bring in the new facility and jobs: "In the 2015 legislative session, we passed 3 bills of economic incentives to make this happen. We make it easier for businesses to do business here in Alabama." When a new business comes in they also want to
Senator Steve Livingston (R - Scottsboro) with Governor Kay Ivey at the groundbreaking. (Contributed Photo)
ensure that the educational institutions in an area are ready to provide new labor. "Locally, right after Google's announcement, myself and Representative Nathaniel Ledbetter were able start a HVAC training program at Northeast College for data servers," he said. Large data servers such as the type Google will be utilizing require extensive air conditioning systems to ensure the systems do not overheat. "So, we'll have new employees ready and trained to fill their needs. It's a way to help foster the environment locally," Livingston added. He also explained how the new facility may provide for more facilities to move in to the area: "When we talked to that Alabama Department of Commerce, they explained that data centers always follow data centers; meaning that when one moves to an area, with a big name such as Google, it makes it more attractive for other companies to follow suit." "We would hope there
would be a continuation," he said. "Google has found a place that is environmentally friendly and business friendly. It's much like how if a new AutoZone opens in a particular area, O'Reilly's and other auto parts stores will also open locations there; they all follow each other." He also explained that Google has been secretive about future plans for the site, and he expects that they may be building new facilities in addition to the new data center. "Google refers to the site as a 'campus' and the property is about 500 acres, so we might anticipate there may be more construction here in the future; bringing in even more jobs and opportunity to Jackson County and Alabama as a whole," said Livingston. "It's like Congressman Brooks said, Google is used 3.5 billion times a day, all over the world. If a person in London checks his business account online through Google, it goes to Bridgeport, Alabama first," concluded Livingston.
FRIDAY–APRIL 13, 2018
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
COMMUNITY
3
Submit your community events to: zach@southerntorch.com
May Events at the NACC IN THE NEWS Mentone Arts & Register NOW for Summer! Cultural Center
Registration for Northeast's summer semester has just begun! (Northeast Alabama Community College)
By Staff Reports
Contributed by Randy Grider, MACC MENTONE, Ala. — The Mentone Arts & Cultural Center (MACC) has two big events coming up in May. The first is a two-day black-and-white film/ darkroom workshop, May 12-13. Master photographer John Dersham will guide the class through a two-day workshop that includes shooting around Mentone, processing film and developing your own work in the darkroom. Participants will be provided with a 35-mm camera to use, a roll of black-and-white film and professional instruction throughout the fun-filled, hands-on experience. The cost for the
workshop is $125. Class size is limited to five persons so reserve today! (256-674-3366 or mentoneartscenter@ gmail.com). Any travel or overnight stay is not included in price. Proceeds will benefit the Mentone Arts & Cultural Center. On Tuesday, May 15, singer/songwriter, Chuck Brodsky will be performing in Mentone. Following a successful show here in 2017, Brodsky decided to make a return to the mountains. Come out and enjoy Brodsky's blend of quirksy, rootsy storytelling through his music. The New York Times says Brodsky offers "Old-fashioned story songs brimming with wit and compassion ...off center, off
the wall and incisively funny." The venue is the MACC's temporary home (the former Kamama Gallery) at 5951 Alabama Hwy 117, Mentone, AL 35984. Admission is a suggested $15 donation with the proceeds benefiting the Mentone Arts & Cultural Center.
LEGALS IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO. CS-2018-900029 MARIA L. MORALES, Plaintiff v. JESUS RAMIREZ, Defendant
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Coffey's Mini Storage Highway 75 • Fyffe, AL
JESUS RAMIREZ, whose whereabouts are unknown, must answer the Petition and other relief by the 7th day of June, 2018, or, thereafter, a judgment by default may be rendered against him in the DeKalb County, Alabama District Court Case No.: CS-2018900029.
planning? Visit or contact our College and Career Planning Center located in the Wallace Administration Building, Room 112. Call Sherry Whitten, director of the center, at ext. 2315 or email her at whittens@ nacc.edu. Join your friends! Get a head start! Enroll at NACC this summer. For more info, go to www.nacc.edu or download our free App from the App Store or Google Play Store.
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Master photographer John Dersham (right) will guide a class through a two day darkroom class and singer/songwriter Chuck Brodsky (left) will be performing. (Contributed Photo)
POWELL, Ala. — Take a closer look at your community college, which has been consistently designated as one of the best in the nation. Summer Semester Registration at Northeast Alabama Community College is going on now. Early registration has begun by appointment for all students. See your advisor now or contact the Office of Admissions to get registered early. Complete your admissions application online. Regular registration is Wednesday, May 30, 8:30 am until 5:00 pm. Registration will end on
Friday, June 1. Classes will begin on Thursday, May 31. Classes are conveniently offered on campus and online. For all class offerings go to the NACC website or the college’s mobile App. Tuition is only $148 per semester hour for summer, about half what it is for a four-year college or university--and you can commute from home saving room and board. Need money for college? Go to www.fafsa.ed.gov to complete a free student financial aid application. Call the Financial Aid Office at ext. 2227 for additional information on financial aid and student loans. Need help with career
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Southern Torch (USPS Periodicals #19790) is published each Friday by Southern Torch, Inc. 203 Main Street E, Rainsville AL, 35986. POSTMASTER:
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FRIDAY–APRIL 13, 2018
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
BUSINESS
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UPCOMING EVENTS Every Thursday, Parents of Addicted Loved Ones - A new support group for Parents of Addicted Loved Ones is starting in Fort Payne at Word of Life Ministry located at 3610 Gault Ave North. The meeting will be held every Tuesday from 6pm to 7:30pm. Any adult family member over 18 is welcome to attend these PAL meetings, however, for insurance reasons, no one under the age of 18 may attend and child care will
not be provided. For more information, visit palgroup. org. Every Wednesday, Breakthrough Church free meal - Come and enjoy a free meal and hear the Word of God on Wednesday nights starting January 3 at 5:30pm. If you need a ride, please contact: Lynn Haas at (256) 605-7854 or Connie Holdem at (256) 605-1776. April 13, Race to Embrace - The Fort Payne
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Optimist Club will host the 10th annual Race to Embrace on April 13! It will be held at Fort Payne High School’s Wildcat Stadium. The annual event is held for children and adults with special needs across DeKalb County. The event will kick off at 9am! April 15, Valley Head Fire Department Fish Fry Fundraiser - The Valley Head Fire Department will host a fish fry fundraiser on April 15 beginning at 11am at the Tiger’s Inn in Valley Head. It’s dine in or carry out. Tickets may be purchased at the Town Hall or from the VHFD and walk-ins are welcomed! April 19-22 & 26-29, The Addams Family - NACC Theatre will present “The Addams Family” held at the Tom Bevill Lyceum on the campus of Northeast Alabama Community College. Friday/Saturday evening performances will begin at 7pm and Sunday matinees start at 2pm. All seats are reserved, and tickets are $5 each!
April 20, Secret Church at Rainsville FBC - The First Baptist Church of Rainsville will host a “Secret Church” event with David Platt on Friday, April 20 at 6pm in the Auditorium. This six-hour event is free and you are welcome to come and go as needed. No childcare will be provided. “Cults and Counterfeit Gospels” will be the topic. Go to www. rainsvillefirst.com or call (256) 638-3141 for more information. April 21, Little River Canyon Center Earth Day Celebrate Earth Day with JSU Field Schools at the Little River Canyon Center. They will host hikes, crafts, and a day of fun. Sign-up sheets will be at the front desk for attending hikes hosted by various instructors. Live animal programs and awesome nature hikes promise to make this celebration a blast! It will be held on April 21 from 10am to 4pm and is free!
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April 21, Third Saturday Sunset Cruise-In - The first Third Saturday of the year will be on April 21 in the Main Street District of Fort Payne! This event will include food, live music, antique cars, and much more! Make plans to join them from 5pm to 9pm and the cost is free! April 25, Rainsville Chamber Administrative Professional Luncheon Join the Rainsville Chamber of Commerce for their annual Administrative Professional Day Luncheon on April 25 at noon at the Tom Bevill Center. Tickets are $20 and include a meal, local entertainment, door prizes (including $1000 cash prizes)! Call (256) 638-7800 for more information. April 27 & 28, Shrine Rodeo - The all new Shrine Rodeo will be held on April 27 and 28 at 7:30pm at the Northeast Alabama Agri-Business Center! It is produced by 4L & S Rodeo and The DeKalb Shrine Club. Tickets are $15 for
adults, $10 for kids ages 6-11, and free for kids that are 5 and under! For more information, please call (256) 717-6263. April 28, FSB Relay for Life - Join First State Bank for the 7th annual Relay for Life 5L Run/Walk Fun Run! Participants are encouraged to walk or run in memory or in honor of a loved one. It will begin at DeKalb Lake in Sylvania at 8am on April 28 with a $25 entry fee! May 4 & 5, Vintage Pickin' Barn Sale - The Vintage Pickin' Barn Sale at White Oaks Farm in Fyffe allows you to shop some of the best vendors from around the South! Vintage marketplace featuring: Farmhouse, Primitives, Rustic Junk, Shabby & French Country, Repurposed goods and more! There will be live music and local food vendors as well! Check them out on Facebook for times and prices!
FRIDAY–APRIL 13, 2018
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
5
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SOUTHERN TORCH JUDICIAL CANDIDATE FORUM DEATH NOTICES WT WILSON Elias Mendoza Infant, passed away on Tuesday, April 10. A graveside service was held at 11am on Wednesday, April 11 at Glenwood Cemetery in Fort Payne. Dorothy Day - 65 of Dutton, passed away on Saturday, April 7. Visitation was held from 5pm to 8pm on Sunday, April 8 at the funeral home. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Monday, April 9 at WT Wilson Funeral Home Chapel with Bros. Wesley McBride and Keith Farmer officiating. Burial followed in Bluff Cemetery in Section. Jackie Brown, Jr. - 46 of Suwanee, Ga. (formerly of this area), passed away on Saturday, April 7 in Shepherd’s Cove Hospice. Visitation was held on Tuesday, April 10 from 4pm to 8pm at the funeral home. Funeral services were held at 1pm on Wednesday, April 11 at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel with a Celebration of Life to follow at the home of Joseph Mosley. Danny Dingler - 63 of Fyffe, passed away on Thursday, April 5.
Visitation was held on Saturday, April 7 from noon until 8pm at the funeral home. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Sunday, April 8 at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel with Bro. Hoyt Gilbert officiating. Burial followed in Liberty Cemetery in Painter. Jennifer Chapman - 43 of Section, passed away on Thursday, April 5. A graveside service was held at 3pm on Saturday, April 7 at Gant Cemetery. Donald Whitecotton - 58 of Pisgah, passed away on Wednesday, April 4. Visitation was held on Friday, April 6 from 4:30pm to 7pm at the funeral home. A memorial service was held on Friday, April 6 at 7pm at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel with Bro. Brian Maxwell officiating.
KERBY Gordon Woods - 91 of Pisgah, passed away on Sunday, April 8 at his residence. The family received friends on Monday, April 9 from 4pm to 8pm and on Tuesday, April 10 from 9am to 11am at the funeral home. Funeral services were held on Tuesday, April 10 at
11am at Kerby Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Shannon Brewster officiating. Burial followed in Friendship Cemetery.
RAINSVILLE Bill Keeton - 91 of Rainsville, passed away on Friday, April 6 at DeKalb Regional Medical Center. Visitation was held on Saturday, April 7 from 5pm to 8pm and on Sunday, April 8 from 11am to 1:30pm at the funeral home. A graveside service were held on Sunday, April 8 at 2pm at Mountain View Memory Gardens with Rev. John Maze officiating and burial following.
CORNER STONE David Pryor - 69 of Flat Rock, passed away on Monday, April 9 at Erlanger Medical Center. The family received friends on Wednesday, April 11 from 4pm to 8pm CT and on Thursday, April 12 from 11am until service time at the funeral home. Funeral services are set for Thursday, April 12 at 1pm CT at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel with Bro. Steve Lea officiating. Burial followed in Chestnut Grove Cemetery with military honors.
BURT Betty Fay Burt - 79, passed away on Friday, April 6. Visitation was held on Saturday, April 7 at Burt Chapel-Fort Payne from 4pm to 8pm. Funeral services were held on Sunday, April 8 at Burt Chapel-Fort Payne at 2:30pm with Rev. George Hughes officiating. Burial followed in Walker’s Chapel Cemetery.
WILSON Lane Smith - 52 of Gadsden, passed away on Thursday, April 5 at his home. The family received friends on Friday, April 6 from 6pm to 8pm at the funeral home. Funeral services were held on Saturday, April 7 at 2pm at Wilson Funeral Home with Rev. David Bankston officiating. Burial followed in Walker’s Chapel Cemetery. Troy Rogers - 58 of Fort Payne, passed away on Friday, April 6. The family received friends on Saturday, April 7 from 5pm to 8pm at the funeral home. Funeral services were held on Sunday, April 8 at 1pm at Wilson Funeral Home with Revs. Matt
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Wilson and Steven McCurdy officiating. Burial followed in Glenwood Cemetery. Robert Berry - 61 of Fort Payne, passed away on Friday, April 6. The family
received friends on Saturday, April 7 from 4pm to 7pm at the funeral home. Funeral services were held at 3pm on Sunday, April 8 at Wilson Funeral Home with Rev. Alan Crawford officiating.
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FRIDAY–APRIL 13, 2018
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
POLITICS
Submit your political news to: tyler@southerntorch.com
4 year old receives proclamation for helping elderly woman
EMILY'S LAW from Page 1
Robert Crum and his father, Matt, receives a proclamation from Mayor Chuck Ables at this week’s meeting of the Geraldine Town Council. (Contributed Photo)
Contributed by The Town of Geraldine GERALDINE, Ala. — The Geraldine Town Council met on April 9th for their regular monthly meeting. Mr. Nick Welden led the opening prayer and Mayor Ables led the pledge to the flag. Mayor Ables read a Proclamation and presented a copy to Robert Crum and Police Chief Matt Crum. Robert is Matt's four year old son. In early December, Matt was made aware of a Mrs. Whitmire that needed gas for her heater. On his off time Matt and his son went to Mrs. Whitmire's house and got her heat working for her. Robert noticed she did not have a Christmas tree and suggested to his dad that they get her one. On his off time Matt purchased a Christmas tree and he and Robert took it and set it up and decorated it. Mrs. Whitmire's son was away in the hospital and she did not have anyone to help her. Her son, Rodney, made the Mayor aware of this some months later and the Council agreed to honor them with the Proclamation. The Council then heard from Jeff McCurdy, a candidate for Circuit Judge Place 2. He explained his qualifications and his plan for how he would serve as Judge. The Council then heard from Nick Welden, a candidate for Sheriff of DeKalb County. He talked about his experience in law enforcement and plans for how he would serve as Sheriff. Mayor Ables reported that Gametime will be here on April 27th to supervise the installation of some new playground equipment to go inside the walking track. Chief Matt Crum then gave a report for the month of March detailing the actions of the police department for the month. There was discussion about hiring a maintenance worker, but no decision was made. The council voted to get a Town truck repaired by Keith Crowley at a price of $600-$800. The council also voted to: • Rent a safe deposit box from Liberty Bank • Adopt Yard of the Month Guidelines • List a surplus Crown Vic on Gov. Deals for 30 days The council also agreed to allow the Police department to hold an Open house event for Kids with games and food on June 30th. There was also discussion about some road repair and agreed to proceed if a grant is received. A discussion was held about having a community wide yard sale weekend but no date has been set.
By Steve Flowers AL Political Columnist MONTGOMERY, Ala. — There are dramatic differences between our congressional delegation of the 1940’s-1960’s and our group on the Potomac today. Obviously, their partisan badges have changed, as have Alabamians. There is also a tremendous difference in power and seniority of that era versus today’s group. That bygone era of Alabama congressmen were very progressive New Deal Democrats; whereas, our delegation today is one of the most conservative in America. Their paths to Congress were also very different. It was as though the earlier folks had been born to be in Congress. They all went to the University of Alabama for college and law school, went off to fight in the World War, came back to their hometown to practice law for a short while before going off to Congress for a
The law is named after Emily Colvin, who was killed on December 7th, 2017 during an attack by five dogs owned by her neighbors. The owners of the dogs were recently arrested after a grand jury returned an indictment for negligent homicide and other charges. “I felt like, and we agreed, that we needed to send some of our personnel to training to familiarize themselves with the implications of this law provides; what we can do, what we can’t do. There always needs to be some kind of training that needs to be initiated with anything that’s newly enacted,” said DeKalb County Commission President Ricky Harcrow, to start the discussion. County Administrator Matt Sharp then explained that Leslie Ledbetter, Director of the DeKalb County Animal Shelter sent a request that personnel be trained on the new law. “This law that was introduced by Senator (Steve) Livingston and Senator (Clay) Schofield from our area. The incident
that happened just across the line in Jackson County where a female was killed by 5 dogs. And it is a dangerous situation. It does put some liability on the county, so some training is needed,” said Sharp. Sharp then called Clayburn Simpson to the podium, who is an investigator for the County Commission regarding Animal Cruelty, to discuss the implementation of the new law in the meeting. “We get animal cruelty calls quite a bit. As far as animal cruelty goes, very few of them turn out to be actually a crime. A lot of them turn out to be neighbors mad at other neighbors, family mad at family; things of that nature. We do occasionally have an animal cruelty case where an animal has been neglected. That’s what most of them are; instead of being abused they are being neglected. People who don’t know what they got or how to take care of them,” Simpson explained. Sharp then asked, “Do you get complaints about a dangerous type dog?” “We get quite a bit of complaints about dogs; dogs roaming yards, dangerous dogs. DeKalb County has no leash law, which most counties don’t. It’s a touchy subject with
the general public. Some are for, some are against. We go out and talk to people, try and to get them to keep their dog up and confine it. There is not a lot we can do if they don’t. Alabama has a law, that if a dog goes on someone else’s property and bothers them or their livestock, they can actually shoot it,” said Simpson. “We’ve looked at the statute, it’s mostly going to be law enforcement; as in the Sheriff’s Office and city police. I don’t know what extent we would be involved as far as declaring the dog dangerous. I think the way the law is written, it’s going to be mostly law enforcement. Or the sheriff’s office,” Simpson said. During the meeting, DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Michael Edmondson said the sheriff’s office intends to send someone to the training. Harcrow asked in the motion to send anyone necessary to the training. District III Commissioner Chris Kuykendall said in his second of the motion, “It’s necessary to protect the county’s interest for the training to be conducted, and I second the motion.”
Inside the Statehouse 20-30 year tenure of, “Going Along to Get Along.” Today’s delegation seems to have gotten there by accident. Of the seven, two went to Duke, one to Harvard, one to New York University, one to Birmingham Southern, one to Jacksonville State, and one to the University of Alabama. Six of the seven have law degrees, which is the only similarity to the bygone era. As we look toward next year’s election, let’s take a look at our current congressional delegates since all are on the ballot this year. Congressmen run every two years but seldom lose. Once you get to Washington the power of incumbency is tremendous. All of the Washington special interest money gravitates to incumbents. First district congressman, Bradley Bryne, is a Republican who was born and raised in Baldwin County in the heart of the traditional first district. This district is
primarily a Baldwin and Mobile seat. Historically it has had great congressmen. Frank Boykin, Jack Edwards, Sonny Callahan, and Jo Bonner have more than aptly represented them over the past 80 years. Byrne is a lawyer by profession. He graduated from Duke undergraduate and University of Alabama Law School. He served five years in the Alabama State Senate before becoming chancellor of the State Community College System where he served several years. He ran for governor in 2010 and led the first primary, but lost to Robert Bentley in the runoff. He won a Special Election to Congress in December of 2013. He has taken to Congress like a duck to water. He is 62 and serves on the Armed Services and Rules Committees. He will win reelection to a third term this year. Second District Congresswoman, Martha Roby, is the only seat in play this year. She is
vulnerable. Roby made a terrible mistake by saying that she was not going to vote for the Republican nominee, Donald Trump, last year. The backlash was dramatic. She is being challenged by three significant GOP opponents. Former Montgomery Mayor and Congressman, Bobby Bright, will be tough. State Representative, Barry Moore, of Enterprise chose to challenge Roby rather than seek reelection to the Legislature. He has been running against Roby for over a year. Rich Hobson is Roy Moore’s chief ally. He will be the heir apparent to Judge Moore’s Wiregrass organization. Bright, Moore and Hobson were all born and raised in the Wiregrass. Third district congressman, Mike Rogers, R-Anniston, is building some seniority and will be a safe bet for reelection. At the end of this term, he will have 16-years seniority. He serves on the Armed Services and Agriculture
Committees where he is building power. The crown jewel of our congressional delegation is Robert Aderholt, R-Haleyville. Aderholt got to Congress at 30 years old and has 22 years of seniority. He is only 52 and is a ranking member of the Appropriations Committee. He will be reelected to a 12th term next year. Congressman Mo Brooks ran a very good race for the U.S. Senate last year. He will probably run again in 2020 against Democrat Doug Jones. He will be re-elected to his Congressional seat this year, and get ready for
another Senate run. Sixth district Birmingham Congressman, Gary Palmer, will win reelection to his suburban Jefferson/Shelby Republican seat. He is unopposed for a third term. Our only Democratic Congressperson is a Harvard educated lady. Terri Sewell is a lawyer, who had a successful law practice in Birmingham before being elected to Congress from the Seventh District eight years ago. The Selma native is on a fast track in Washington. She will go back for another two-year term. See you next week.
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Sylvania Tennis claws the Wildcats By Marla Jones Sports Editor
FORT PAYNE, Ala. — The Sylvania Varsity Boys and Girls Tennis Team took on the Fort Payne WIldcats on Thursday, April 5, 2018. The Varsity Boys won against the Fort Payne Wildcats 7-2. In the singles match up, the Rams showed hardwork and determination. Jarred Higgins was the victor in the Number 2
match, 8-5. Josh Tinker won the Number 3 match, 8-2. Kenyon Stover won the Number 3 match, 8-3 and Jordan Johnson won the Number 6 match, 8-1. In doubles, Alex Ivey and Josh Tinker won Number 1 match, 8-2, Jarred Higgins and Mason Sanders won Number 2 match, 8-3, and Kenyon Stover and Drake Justus won Number 3 doubles 8-4. The Sylvania Varsity girls won against the Lady Wildcats, 6-3. It was the
first win for the Lady Rams over the Lady Wildcats in over 10 years. In singles, Audrey Schrader won the Number 2 match, 8-3. Lacey Hall won the Number 3 match, 8-0, Sarah Smothers won the Number 5 match, 8-2. Melinda Little finished out the night, winning the Number 6 match, 8-3. In doubles, Schrader and Hall won Number 2 doubles 8-6. Smothers and Little won Number 3 doubles 8-6.
OLD TIMERS' 5TH ANNUAL GRIDIRON CLASSIC
(All Photos Contributed by Mandy Helton)
By Staff Reports FYFFE, Ala. — Despite the rainy, cold weather, fans showed up to watch their favorite players relive their glory days at the 5th Annual Old Timers’ Gridiron Classic. The North Badgers shut out the Dirty South Cowboys, 14-0. The Most
Paul Long of the Long Ranch 4 Boys
The North Badger Cheerleaders
Valuable Players (MVP) for the North were Chad Anderson and Gabe Graham. Our very own Sports Editor, Marla Jones, made her cheerleading debut for the North Badgers. “It was a great experience and I really enjoyed representing Southern Torch at this
event that does so much good,” said Jones. Long Ranch 4 Boys is an overflow of a passion and a calling in the life of the Long family. Paul, Kristy, Crimson and Japeth desire to minister to boys ages 5-18 who need help in difficult situations. Their vision and prayers for Long Ranch is to provide at risk
boys with a solid family structure that will love them, encourage them, and equip them to be Godly men in their communities and homes. Proverbs 22:6 says to "train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it."
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DeWolfe wins Regional Scholarship
First State Bank to hold 7th Annual 5K
By Marla Jones Sports Editor
FORT PAYNE, Ala. — BIRMINGHAM, Ala.— Congratulations to Kline DeWolfe of Plainview for winning the Class 3A, Region 7, 2018 Bryant-Jordan Achievement Award on April 9, 2018. The program, named in honor of the late coaches Paul "Bear" Bryant of Alabama and Ralph "Shug" Jordan of Auburn. The program recognized 52 regional scholar-athlete winners selected for their excellence in athletics and academics and 52 achievement winners were chosen for their ability to overcome major obstacles during their high school careers. Each regional winner received $2,500 in scholarships.
By Staff Reports SYLVANIA, Ala. — The 7th Annual First State Bank 5K Run/Walk Fun Run is set to be held on Saturday, April 28 at DeKalb Lake in Sylvania. The race will now feature chip timing. The cost to run/walk is $20 per entry if postmarked by April 6, and
$25 thereafter. Race day registration is set to begin at 7:15am. A ceremony will be held following the completion of the race. Door prizes will be given out afterwards (must be present to win). Everyone is encouraged to participate in memory or in honor of a loved one who has been
faced with a battle with cancer. All proceeds will go to the First State Bank Relay for Life team. Race forms will be available on the First State Bank website at www.fsbal. com, on the bank’s Facebook page, or at any First State Bank branch in Fort Payne, Rainsville, Henagar or Grant.
Brothers Resign Across the Mound as Head Coach
Christie Brothers is stepping down as the Head Volleyball Coach of Geraldine's team after 21 seasons of play. She will remain on the faculty and assist where needed.
By Marla Jones Sports Editor GERALDINE, Ala.-- After twenty-one seasons, Geraldine Head Volleyball Coach, Christie Brothers is stepping down as Head Volleyball Coach. Brothers led the Lady Bulldogs thru the class change from 2A to Class 3A. In her 21 seasons, the Lady Bulldogs won sixteen DeKalb County Championships,16 Area Tournaments and a Class 2A State Championship. In 1999 and in 2005 the Bulldogs finished second in
the Class 2A State Tournaments. In September 2016, Brothers celebrated her 800th win. She is the first volleyball coach in DeKalb County and only one of fifteen coaches in the state to achieve this honor. Coaching volleyball is
in her blood. Her father was the previous volleyball coach and gave the team to his daughter when he became the Principal of Geraldine in 1997. Coach Brothers had the opportunity to coach her daughter, Shelby for four years. While serving as coach for the Bulldogs, the team accrued a 872-346 record. The team averaged 41 wins per season. Last season, her team finished 47-12 and Brothers carried her Bulldog team to the State Tournament for the twelfth time. "I have been blessed to have had an opportunity to be a part of so many girls' lives through the sport of volleyball. I have loved seeing the popularity of volleyball grow in our school and community. " Brothers submitted her resignation, as Volleyball Coach, to Geraldine Principal, Steve Street on Monday. Brothers will remain on the faculty and will continue to assist where needed in the volleyball program.
COACHES! Don't forget to send your stats to
marla@southerntorch.com
BOYS Valley Head (L) v. Skyline 15-5 Fort Payne (W) v. Brewer 13-4 Collinsville (L) v. Westbrook 11-0 Crossville (L) v. Scottsboro 6-1 Geraldine (W) v. New Hope 3-0 Fyffe (L) v. Section 2-7 Plainview (W) v. Cedar Bluff 7-3 Sylvania (L) v. Boaz 12-2 Ider (W) v. Asbury 9-5
GIRLS Valley Head (L) v. Crossville 3-2 Fort Payne (L) v. Albertville 3-1 Collinsville (W) v. Fyffe 4-3 Crossville (W) v. NSM 7-1 Geraldine (W) v. Boaz 4-2 Fyffe (L) v. Collinsville 4-3 Plainview (W) v. Sylvania 14-8 Ider (W) v. Section 4-0
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FRIDAY–APRIL 13, 2018
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
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SHRINE RODEO COMES TO TOWN
By Staff Reports
RAINSVILLE, Ala. — The 4L Rodeo Company is one of the most outstanding rodeo stock contracting companies in the southeastern United States. Founded in 1985 by champion calf roper and steer wrestler Charlie Lowry, the company has grown from five small productions its first year to producing over 25 events a year. 4L Rodeo hosts PRCA, IPRA, NIRA, and high school rodeos and rough stock schools. In 2009, Lowry widened his vision for 4L Rodeo Company by becoming partners with David Simpson, Diamond S Bucking Bulls, Weatherford, Texas forming the 4L and Diamond S Rodeo Company. The new company has provided stock for numerous rodeos such as Cheyenne, Omaha, Odessa, San Antonio and Fort Worth. 4L & Diamond S Rodeo have provided bulls for the PRCA Xtreme Bulls as well as the Wrangler National Final Rodeo in Las Vegas. Charlie Lowry, the three-time qualifier for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, holds seventeen championship titles in the PRCA Southeastern Circuit. In 1978, he set an arena record at the Cow Palace in San Francisco in calf roping. In 1981, Lowry claimed the All-Around Cowboy title at the famous Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo in Wyoming. Along with the list of his many personal accolades, this lifelong cowboy was named the 2002 & 2012 Stock Contractor of the Year by the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association. According to Charlie, the Rodeo is good for his family. “Rodeo not only provided a livelihood, but also a common bond for our family,” says Lowry, “It has provided an opportunity to make friendships that will last a lifetime.”
Hunters of the Week Congratulations to this week's Southern Torch Hunter of the Week is our very own managing editor, Tyler Pruett! He bagged these two turkeys last weekend on his parents' land in Centre.
Submit your photos to marla@southerntorch.com to be the next Southern Torch Hunter of the Week!
SMEC ANNUAL MEETING Sand Mountain Electric Cooperative 78th Annual Meeting April 21, 2018
GRAND PRIZE $200 FREE ELECTRICITY PER MONTH FOR ONE YEAR FREE LED Flashlight
While supplies last, all SMEC members registering within the times listed may receive a lightweight carbon fiber aluminum flashlight with super bright LEDs. The flashlight includes defense bezel and comes with three replaceable AAA batteries.
DeKalb County Schools Coliseum § Two day registration: Friday, April 20 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday, April 21 8 a.m. - 10 a.m. § Business Meeting Saturday, April 21 at 10 a.m. § Registered members on both days receive a copy of the co-op annual report, ballot to vote for directors, a prize ticket and a gift of appreciation while supplies last. § Six cash prize drawings will be held Saturday morning. Members registering either day are eligible and DO NOT have to be present to win these six drawings. § Two Grand Prize drawings will be held immediately following the business meeting on Saturday. Each winner will receive $200 free electricity per month for one year. The first ticket drawn does not have to be present to win. The second ticket drawn for the same prize must be present to win.
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FRIDAY–APRIL 13, 2018
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
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