The Southern Torch — Vol. 4, Issue 18

Bobby Ledbetter’s

RING IN SPRING WITH BIG SAVINGS! 1411 Glenn Blvd SW, Fort Payne, AL 35967

THE SOUTHERN TORCH / FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2018 / VOL. 4, NO. 18 / $1.00

LIKE

FOLLOW

TWEET

FYFFE TO HOLD MEETING ON POULTRY PLANT The new facility will be located in the Fyffe Industrial Park; near Liberty Steel on Highway 75. (Tyler Pruett | Southern Torch)

By Tyler Pruett Managing Editor FYFFE, Ala. — On Friday night at 6:30 pm, the Town of Fyffe will hold a public meeting on the

incoming poultry processing plant. The meeting will be held in the Fyffe Senior Center. (We’ll provide live coverage of the meeting) At the meeting, an environmentalist will be

discussing any potential impact, DeKalb County Economic Development Authority Director Jimmy Durham will be speaking, and the owners of the company will be on hand to address the public.

Reportedly, the owners first looked at the City of Fort Payne which turned them down for undisclosed reasons. The business then approached Rainsville, and the city was interested, but the sewer access lines would not

accommodate the facility.

It would have cost Rainsville around $1 million dollars to upgrade the access lines.

The owners then approached the Town of Fyffe, which had a site available. Word got out

about a week ago about the incoming facility, and it stirred some controversy in the area.

Today, we discussed the incoming plant with

>> POULTRY, P2

Alabama hits the stage to help JSU Seven Years Later

(Ticketmaster)

By Zach Hester Reporter JACKSONVILLE, Ala. — It’s officially been over a

month since a pair of devastating tornadoes ripped through the city of Jacksonville, causing severe damage to both the

university and community at large. Luckily, no lives were lost.

According to Jacksonville State

University: JSU was hit by an EF-3 tornado [on March 19th] and had winds of up to 135 miles per hour (mph).� The entire campus was temporarily off-limits and a curfew was placed into immediate effect.

University staff, students, alumni, and friends have since come together during these trying times to rebuild the “Friendliest Campus in the South.�

Over the last month, students have begun to

>> ALABAMA, P2

FP Council approves amendment to GH Metal Abatement

By Tyler Pruett Managing Editor

FRIDAY 5/4

80 • 64

SATURDAY 5/5

72 • 58

SUNDAY 5/6

76 • 57

FORT PAYNE, Ala. — (Full Video on our Website) At this week’s meeting of the Fort Payne City Council, the council approved Ordinance 2018-25, Amending Resolution 2015-26 and 2018-26 granting new tax abatements to GH Metal Solutions, located on Airport Road.

Pam Clay, Business Retention and Expansion Director for the DeKalb Co. Economic Development Authority, and Edwin Stanley, Vice President of Operations for GH Metal

addressed the council prior to approving the abatements.

According to GH Metal Solutions website, the business offers, “in house laser cutting, bar and tube processing, stamping, machining, sawing and welding services. We are also able to offer powder painting, e-coating, and zinc plating services prior to parts delivery. We supply companies in the lift-truck, tractor, overhead crane, and electrical components industries.�

The facility, located on Airport Road near the interstate has, “200,000 square feet of manufac-

turing space�

Clay said that GH was asking to, “modify abatements originally granted in December of 2015 to modify the building, purchase new manufacturing equipment, and add employees.�

Ordinance 2018-25 would amend the original capital investment of the city from $9,333,900.00, to $9,756,000.00. These tax abatements come from the non-educational sales and use tax, and the non-educational property tax. The amendment also extends the abatement for

(Submitted Photo)

By Staff Reports

RAINSVILLE, Ala. — Last Friday, April 27, families and friends of the victims of 2011’s tornado outbreak held a ceremony to place a simple wreath at the Tornado Memorial in Rainsville in remembrance of the lives lost seven years ago.

Friday marked the seventh year since a massive tornado raked across the county, taking with it 35 people in the area. The tornado killed 238 people across the state of Alabama, and was later rated at an EF-5 when it passed through Rainsville, boasting wind peak greater than 200 miles per hour with a path measuring 33.8 miles long and 3/4 miles wide, according to the National Weather Service.

WHNT Chief Meteorologist Jason Simpson recalled the the event on Facebook: "The anniversary of one of the hardest days of my career and one of the hardest days in Alabama's history.

God bless those who lost family and friends on this horrible day in 2011. May you have a greater peace on this anniversary as we reflect on what happened on April 27, 2011. It's hard to believe it's been seven years since that day.

I'll never forget the simple phrase that I started the day with 'Good morning.' That could not have been further from the truth.

We got a gorgeous day last week, but the memory of the storms triggered that day still linger in the minds of everyone who went through it.

>> COUNCIL, P2 Visit our website at www.southerntorch.com for daily news updates and pick up your weekly print edition at news stands every Friday.

2

FRIDAY–MAY 4, 2018

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Alfa endorses T.J. Maloney for House District 39 GH Metal Solutions offers contract metal working services and is located on Airport Road.

The amended abatement increased the amount of capital investment by almost half a million dollars and extended it for a year; until the end of 2019. (Tyler Pruett | Southern Torch)

COUNCIL from Page 1

an additional year; from December 31, 2018 to December 31, 2019. The resolution also, “reclassified some of the capital investment items.”

According to Clay, the abatement allowed them to add an additional 30 jobs this year; bringing GH up to 400 total employees at their facility in town.

According to Stanley, GH Metal had added 75 new jobs total at the end of March 2017.

“To date, (GH Metal) has invested $5.9 million of the $9,756,000.00,” concluded Clay.

“Do you foresee adding more (jobs) in the future?”

Councilman Gerald Taylor asked Stanley in the meeting.

“If we can find the people. It’s a challenge,” stated Stanley. “If we continue to grow; it’s been a good year. Last year was a great year, and this year we are off to a good start.”

Taylor then said, “Well

I feel like we need to support our local businesses; that are in business here and doing good, so I make a motion we approve.”

The council then approved both resolutions regarding GH Metal Solutions.

Other items addressed at the meeting: The City of Fort Payne presented plaques to honor employees Terry Noles (Fort Payne Police Department) and Tommy Evans (Fort Payne Fire Department) on their retirements. Noles served 25 years in law enforcement for the City of Fort Payne and Evans for 23 years total.

Several city departments received certificates from the United Giver’s Fund for meeting their donation goals, including the Street Department, Building Maintenance, Animal Control, Cemetery, and Sanitation Departments.

The next meeting of the Fort Payne City Council will be held on May 15, 2018.

Republican T.J. Maloney has received Alfa’s endorsement in the race for House District 39. District 39 covers all of Cheorkee County, and parts of DeKalb, Cleburne, and Calhoun counties.

(Contributed Photo)

By Marla Jones Reporter MONTGOMERY, Ala.— FarmPAC, the political action committee of the Alabama Farmers Federation, has announced its endorsement of TJ Maloney for House District 39 which covers Cleburne, Cherokee, Calhoun and DeKalb counties.

“TJ Maloney is a conservative’s conservative, and we know he will represent us well in Montgomery,” said Cleburne County Farmers Federation President Jimmy Jimmerson. “He will work hard for the citizens of District 39.”

Maloney is the director of marketing for RA-LIN & Associates, a general contractor and construction management agency. He previously owned and operated a Heflin-based small business that specialized in communications.

POULTRY from Page 1 Fyffe Mayor Paul Cagle.

“We have an Industrial Park that has been in place for more than 10 years. Our site is build ready, and these folks want to be in business by the end of the year,” Cagle said.

“The are still conducting preliminary tests. The contracts have not yet been signed at this point,” said Cagle.

He also explained that, “they are currently conducting the environmental impact studies.”

Cagle also related that the plant will be for filleting; which will mean cutting the already processed breast. No birds will be killed onsite. The company will be named Mountain Fresh Foods, LLC. And the business is North Alabama-owned; with one owner being from Guntersville and another from Decatur.

The company currently operates one facility in Guntersville, Farm Fresh Foods LLC, and is expanding to DeKalb County. Mayor Cagle and members of the Fyffe Town Council went and toured the Guntersville facility this morning.

“I was very impressed

Maloney is married to Tanya Morrison Maloney, a native of Cleburne County, and together they have two daughters. TJ and Tanya are active members of Heflin First United Methodist Church where he teaches youth Sunday School. TJ coaches youth sports, volunteers with the United Way and Kiwanis, and is active with several Northeast Alabama chambers of commerce.

“I am honored to receive the Alabama Farmers Federation’s endorsement” Maloney said. “I look forward to working with the Farmers Federation to support and promote agriculture in Northeast Alabama, to work with all four counties in House District 39 and to defend our shared conservative values.”

The Alabama Farmers Federation is the state’s largest farm organization with more than 357,000 members. It uses a true grassroots approach to select candidates, relying on FarmPAC recommendations from county Federation boards for local elections. with their operation,” said Cagle.

The Fyffe processing plant is estimated to provide 300 jobs for the immediate area, and wages of over $14 an hour.

“We are not opposed to bringing industry into this town that we think will benefit this town. We the council are residents of this town, the industrial board are residents of this town, and we are going to

do the best of our ability to serve the public,” explained Cagle.

“We, the council have been actively seeking quality industry to come in this town, and this is by far the best opportunity we’ve ever had,” he continued.

“We are trying to help the community by providing quality jobs with good benefits,” concluded Cagle.

PROUDLY SERVING ALL OF NORTHEAST ALABAMA RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL • TERMITE & PEST CONTROL WOOD INFESTATION REPORTS FOR REAL ESTATE PURCHASES • FREE INSPECTIONS

OWNER RUSSELL SATTERFIELD

878-5472

White Realty MLS#1088813 • $142,000

MLS#1090580 • $43,250

MLS#1090670 • $125,000

MLS#1090131 • $432,000

MLS#1089461 • $135,500

MLS#1089937 • $483,700

348 Main St E. Rainsville, AL 35986 • 256-638-6265

FRIDAY–MAY 4, 2018

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

COMMUNITY

Submit your community events to: zach@southerntorch.com

Hartline excels in SkillsUSA; accepted into NACC Nursing

Thomas Hartline finished first for the second year in a row at the State SkillsUSA First Aid-CPR competition. (Submitted Photo)

By Marla Jones Reporter RAINSVILLE, Ala. — Thomas Hartline, a senior at Plainview High School, defended his first place victory in last years’ State SkillsUSA First Aid-CPR competition with a gold medal-win for the

second year in a row as a representative of DeKalb County Technical School.

Hartline’s victory here in Alabama now allows him to move onto the nationals.

Hartline has also had a stellar senior year. He became the first Medical Science student to be

accepted into Northeast Alabama Community College’s nursing program prior to his own high school graduation. He has participated in the DeKalb County Career Tech Dual Enrollment Program. He plans to become a nurse practitioner.

Thomas has always

Stamp Out Hunger

3

been one to blaze his own trails and help others. He has helped paint churches in Guatemala, been instrumental in the building of special needs playgrounds in Rainsville, helped in Operation Christmas Child, and assisted in ministry to children in the foothills of Kentucky.

“Life hasn’t always treated Thomas fair, but he has never let that slow him down,” said his father, Gary Hartline. “No matter what has come his way, he has faced it head on. He has always wanted to help people.”

All of us here at The Southern Torch are proud of Thomas Hartline and his amazing accomplishments and wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors.

Greene wins again!

For the fourth year in a row, Jordan Greene has won the SkillsUSA State Competition again for welding. It also makes for a fourth consecutive win for JF Drake. Greene will now travel to Louisville, Kentucky next month to compete at the national level. Good luck Jordan!

(Left to Right): Joseph Bevel, Jordan Greene, and Ryan Green

CLASSIFIEDS

LEGALS

GATOR FOR SALE

IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA

condition. $6,700. Call (256) 638-6428 if interested.

CASE NO. CS-2018-900029

2012 John Deere Gator XUV 550 for sale. Excellent

HAPPY JAC K

Use Happy Jack Tonekote to restore nutrients that prevent skin allergies in dogs and cats!

KENNELVAX.COM

Valley Joist, Inc. Immediate opening for a Truck Driver for it’s location in Fort Payne, Alabama.

Duties & Responsibilities

(Zach Hester | Southern Torch)

By Zach Hester Reporter DEKALB COUNTY, Ala. — For more than twenty years, the National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) has held an annual food drive on the second Saturday of May that stretches from one end of the nation to the other. With a huge network of letter carriers dedicated to the cause, the “Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive” has become a great success for communities across America. This year’s donations will be picked up on Saturday, May 12.

Each year, letter carriers collect non-perishable foods like canned goods from their customers. These generous donations go directly to local food pantries to provide for those in the area who need a little extra help.

Currently in the United States, there are upwards of 50 million people who are unsure of where their next meal will come from. Thirteen million of those are children and more than 5 million are senior citizens

over the age of 60.

“Many people in this country struggle with hunger every day,” said NALC President Frederic Rolando. “We are honored to be able to help people in need by leading an effort that brings out the best in so many Americans.” For more than a decade, the drive has collected over 70 million pounds of food per year. Over the course of the event’s history, 1.4 billion pounds of food has been collected to feed our neighbors.

According to the NALC, there are many local volunteer groups that will assist in the process this year. Those include United Way, Salvation Army, Catholic Charities, National Guard units, American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars, Boy/Girl Scouts, various student groups, Rotary Clubs and AARP groups.

Participation is a simple way of helping out this great cause. On this, the food drive’s 26th anniversary, you can help out by leaving non-perishable food items in a bag by your mailbox on Saturday, May 12. Your letter carrier will do the rest. Thank you to all who give in to this great cause as the NALC celebrates another fantastic day of giving.

Together, hope can be delivered to those in need.

At the time of print, we only know of the Fort Payne Post Office accepting donations. If you would like to donate any non-perishable foods and you live outside of Fort Payne, you may drop it off at their Post Office on the day of the food drive.

For more information, please visit www.facebook. com/StampOutHunger or see their twitter: @ StampOutHunger.

Staff: Eloise Smith, Business Manager

Southern Torch (USPS Periodicals #19790) is published each Friday by Southern Torch, Inc. 203 Main Street E, Rainsville AL, 35986. POSTMASTER:

Tyler Pruett, Managing Editor Marla Jones, Sports Editor Zach Hester, Graphic Design Artist Amy Thrash, Advertising Representative

Send address changes to Southern Torch, P.O. Box

Lindsey Jones, Office Assistant

614 Rainsville, Alabama 35986-0614.

Membership rates:

(256) 638-4040

Regular yearly rate–$30 Senior or Veteran yearly rates–$25

Deliver loads on a daily basis and arrive on-time, maintain all required documents, report daily to dispatch, maintain a clean driving record, and physical ability to tie down loads safely Qualifications

- Minimum three years experience flatbed OTR - Class “A” CDL, Clean MVR - DOT physical card and long form - Good communication skills - Able to pass drug screening

Valley Joist manufactures steel joists and Joist Girders for use in commercial buildings, schools, churches, etc. Our plant is located in Fort Payne, AL. We are a division of EBSCO, Industries, Inc. To find out more information about Valley Joist, visit our web site at www.valleyjoist.com.

EOE/M/F/Disability/Vets

Email resume to ahartley@valleyjoist.com

JOB OPENING

FLEET/FACILITIES TECHNICIAN DeKalb Ambulance Service is accepting applications for a full-time, experienced Fleet/Facilities Technician. Candidate must have a high school diploma/GED, a current Alabama vehicle operator's license, Automobile Speciality Certification (ASE) in engine repair, manual drive train, suspension, steering, brakes, electrical systems, heating, air-conditioning and engine performance. Emergency Vehicle Technician (EVT) preferred in addition to ASE certificiation. All certifications must be maintained throughout employment. Experience in minor building maintenance preferred. Competitive salary based on experience and full benefits package.

Deadline for applications to be submitted will be 5pm on May 16, 2018. Resumes may be emailed to cheryl.turner@dasems.com, dropped off at the Main Office 208 Airport Road W, Fort Payne, AL or mailed to: Cheryl Turner, Director • PO Box 680643, Fort Payne, AL 35968

MARIA L. MORALES, Plaintiff v.

JESUS RAMIREZ, Defendant NOTICE OF CUSTODY PROCEEDINGS NOTICE TO: JESUS RAMIREZ 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. /s/Gabriela Watson, Esq WATSON & WATSON P.O. Box 1068 Albertville, Alabama 35950 Publish: April 13, April 20, April 27, May 4

Sand Mountain Electric Cooperative is accepting applications for IT/Computer Network Administrator Bachelor degree in Computer Science or related field from an accredited college or university, 5 years relevant technical experience or equivalent combination of education and experience is required. Applicants should hold or be working toward professional certifications such as Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE), Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS), Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), Certified SonicWall System Administrator (CSSA), CompTIA Network+, Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP). Applicant must also be able to set-up and maintain a local area network (LAN) comprised of multiple servers and systems.

Send applications and resume to Mark Malone, Sand Mountain Electric Cooperative, P. O. Box 277, Rainsville, AL 35986 by Friday, May 18, 2018.

4

FRIDAY–MAY 4, 2018

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

BUSINESS

Submit your business news to: admin@southerntorch.com

Advertise

Quality Church Furnishings Created by American Craftsmen Since 1958

here for

$12.50

fsbal.com

Woody’s

Steak & Seafood Tues-Sun 10:30am-8pm

105 Co. Rd. 89 in Fort Payne / Dogtown

256-364-2221

Advertise here for

$12.50 Advertise here for

Jamey Jones

Phone: 256-638-2467

jamey@rainsvillepew.com www.rainsvillepew.com

Rainsville Church Pew provides top quality furniture manufacturing and refinishing. They make it easy for you to furnish your church with customcrafted solid wood furniture! They have been serving churches with oustanding pews since 1958! They make custom pews, pulpits, chairs, benches, racks, tables and so much more.Go see them today!

$12.50 THE FISHERMEN SOUTHERN GOSPEL QUARTET For bookings call: Glenn Smith (256) 572-6146 Check us out on Facebook

Advertise

Advertise here for

$12.50

here for

$12.50

THE DIET CLINIC

256-997-2020 Serving Northern Alabama and the Surrounding Areas

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.

Farmhouse, Primitives, Rustic Junk, Shabby and 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!

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.

May 5, Friends of the Depot Silent Auction & Gala - Fort Payne Depot Museum presents Friends of the Depot Silent Auction & Gala.

Proceeds from this event will go towards our Little Red Caboose Educational Express and towards the “Depot Traveling History Trunks Program” project. Tickets can be purchased at the Depot Museum, Brown’s Cleaners, and Pat’s Salon. It begins at 6pm and costs $25 per ticket.

May 4 & 5, Vintage Pickin’ Barn Sale - The Vintage Pickin’ Barn Sale at White Oaks Farm in Fyffe allowed you to shop some of the best vendors from around the South! Vintage marketplace featuring:

May 5, The Sharps in Concert - If you love gospel music, you don't want to miss this. The Fort Payne Marine League proudly presents The Sharps in Concert at the DeKalb Theatre in downtown Fort Payne! The concert is in honor of our veterans will begin at 6pm on May 5!

May 6, 9, Mountain Valley Singers - The

Terrell Chiropractic, LLC OPEN SIX DAYS A WEEK!

Dr. Robert Terrell Dr. Jeff Parker Mon-Wed Thu-Fri Saturday 8:30-5:30 8:30-5:30 8:30-12

65 McCurdy Ave S, Rainsville, AL 35986 Phone: (256) 638-9393 • Fax: (256) 638-9395

Mountain Valley Singers, a multi-county community choir, will soon present its spring concert Poetry in Music: An Affirmation of Life. This concert is programmed in three parts: poetry from the Bible; poetry of Love, Devotion, and Death; and poetry for Humanity.

Some of the poets included are Saint Matthew, Mary, Queen of Scots, Abraham Lincoln, Mark Twain, E.E. Cummings, Langston Hughes, and Charles Dickens. These poems express heartfelt devotion to God, impart a glimpse of love and loss, and convey optimism for the future of humanity. The first concert will be on Sunday, May 6 at 2pm at the Albertville First United Methodist Church.

The second concert will be on Wednesday, May 9 at 6:30pm at the Guntersville First United Methodist Church. The concerts are free as the choir’s gift to the community.

May 6, Hoskins Family at High Point Church - The Hoskins Family from Waynesville, Ohio, will be singing on Sunday, May 6 at High Point Church of God’s Homecoming at 10:30am.

Everyone is welcome!

May 17-20, US 11 Antique Alley Yard Sale Follow scenic US Highway 11 on the backroads of Appalachia for 502 miles of sales from Meridian, Miss. to Bristol, Va.! Explore charming historic communities like the 1889

Boom Town district of Fort Payne, Ala. This epic annual event is always the four-day weekend (Thursday-Sunday) after Mother’s Day in May. The 502-mile festive roadside sale is littered with great stops in our area including: DeKalb County, Dade County, Chattanooga, and Knoxville!

May 19-20,

Rhododendron Festival - Talent and beauty usher in the Rhododendron Festival season with the Miss Rhododendron Pageant which kicks off this annual spring event. A bonfire and delicious local food always get the actual Rhododendron festivities off to a great start!

Enjoy an event that highlights the best of Mentone with local

musicians, cloggers, storytellers, arts of all mediums, horse drawn carriage rides, pony rides, scene boat tours of Little River, and a “Taste of Mentone”! The event begins on Saturday, May 19 from 9am to 5pm and then goes on to Sunday, May 20 from 9am to 4pm. Admission is free, but donations are welcome!

FRIDAY–MAY 4, 2018

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Forbes names BlueCross BlueShield of Alabama among USA's best employers

By Staff Reports BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Forbes named Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama one of America’s Best Employers for 2018 in the mid-size category of 1000-5000 employees.

Blue Cross is one of 28 companies nationwide to be selected in this category.

Recognition was based on feedback and survey results from 100-150 Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama employees and 50 non-employees.

According to Statista, employees are consulted anonymously through several online panels so the employee can openly state their opinion, avoiding any influence from their employer.

“It is a distinct honor to be named one of America’s best employers, especially since it is based mainly on feedback from our own employees,” said Tim Vines, President and CEO of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama.

“We are committed to creating a positive, innovative and productive work environment for the more than 3,000 employees who are dedicated to serving our customers.”

The evaluation was based on two distinct criteria: Direct Recommendations: Employees were asked to rate their willingness to recommend their own employer to friends and

family based on a 0-10 scale.

Indirect recommendations: Participants were also prompted to evaluate other employers in their respective industries that stood out either positively or negatively.

Employees were asked 35 work-related questions surrounding working conditions, potential for development, salary, and company image. The rate of agreement/ disagreement regarding the statements was measured on a 5-point Likert scale.

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama has insured Alabamians for over 81 years. Blue Cross offers coverage plans to corporations, individuals and the senior market. For more information about Blue Cross, visit AlabamaBlue.com. Connect with us on Facebook, check out our videos on YouTube and follow us on Twitter for more up-to-date information.

ALABAMA from Page 1 trickle back into the campus that they call home either to continue their courses, drop them, or pack up their things to head home once again.

While life may not have completely returned to normal for Jacksonville, a few of our own DeKalb County natives are hoping to use their gifts to make a difference.

On September 26, multiple Grammy Award-winning country band Alabama are heading back to their roots for a special headlining concert at Burgess-Snow Field at Jacksonville State University with friends and special guests for their only major live appearance

FISH DAY!

IT’S TIME TO STOCK YOUR POND! Delivery Will Be: Wednesday, May 16

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

To Place an Order, call:

in 2018. All proceeds from the concert will go toward tornado relief on campus.

The band has recruited an all-star lineup for the show with guests like The Charlie Daniels Band, Jamey Johnson, Riley Green, Shenandoah, Darren “Southern Momma” Knight and even more surprise guests that are being kept under wraps until showtime.

“Just as we did with the Alabama Fundraiser Concerts when the 2011 tornadoes hit, we continue to want to help,” Alabama lead vocalist Randy Owen told JSU. “One way we can help is do what we do best: play music with our friends and raise money for the university repairs.”

Tickets go on sale on Tuesday, May 1 at 10am at

5

ticketfly.com or by calling (877) 435-9849. Prices begin at $25 (with fees).

Stadium Club seats will be available to JSU Stadium Club ticket holders for $125 and can only be bought through calling the JSU Athletics Ticket Office during regular business hours. A limited number of general admission tickets will be available for purchase in person at the JSU Athletics Ticket Office in Kennamer Hall. #JSUStrong

THE FISHERMEN SOUTHERN GOSPEL QUARTET

For Bookings call: Glenn Smith (256) 572-6146

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

Like us on Facebook

DEATH NOTICES WILSON Wade M. Higginbotham - 65 of Valley Head, passed away on Friday, April 27.

The family received friends on Saturday, April 28 from 5pm to 8pm at the funeral home. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Sunday, April 29 at Wilson Funeral Home with Rev. Darrell Haney and Judge Ronnie Osborn officiating.

Burial followed in Valley Head Cemetery with Masonic graveside rites.

William “Tony” Anthony Johnson - 59 of Fort Payne, passed away on Monday, April 30 at DeKalb Regional Medical Center. The family received friends on Wednesday, May 2 from 4pm to 8pm at the funeral home. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Thursday, May 3 at Wilson Funeral Home with Rev. Jim Davidson officiating. Burial followed in Walker’s Chapel Cemetery.

COLLINSVILLE Jerry Will Watson - 73 of Collinsville, passed away on Sunday, April 29 at DeKalb Regional Medical Center.

The family received

friends at Collinsville Funeral Home-Sharpe Chapel on Tuesday, May 1 from 11am until service time. Funeral services were held at 1pm on Tuesday, May 1 at Collinsville Funeral Home-Sharpe Chapel with Hon. Judge Ronnie Osborn officiating. Burial followed in Copeland’s Bridge Cemetery.

CORNER STONE Ruby Ledbetter Lea - 93 of Henagar, passed away on Thursday, April 26 at her residence. The family received friends from 11am until service time at the funeral home. Funeral services were held on Saturday, April 28 at 1pm at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel with Rev. Rex Williams officiating. Burial followed in Fuller Cemetery.

Mona Francis Couey - 84 of Henagar, passed away on Saturday, April 28. No services are planned at this time.

Dakota Justin Blackwell - 23 of Henagar, passed away on Saturday, April 28. The family received friends from 1pm to 8pm on Monday, April 30; 10am to 8pm on Tuesday, May 1; and from 10am until service time on

Wednesday, May 2 at the funeral home. Funeral services were held on Wednesday, May 2 at noon at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel with Bros. Brent Michaels and Edward Atchley officiating. Burial followed in Higdon Cemetery.

KERBY Sybil Presley - 97 of Pisgah, passed away on Wednesday, April 25 at Highlands Medical Center. The family received friends on Friday, April 27 from 5pm to 8pm at Kerby Funeral Home and on Saturday, April 28 from 1pm to service time at Pisgah Baptist Church.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, April 28 at 2pm at the church with Bro. Matt Kilgore and Bro. Craig White officiating. Burial followed in Pisgah Cemetery.

RAINSVILLE Agatha Dell Dobbs - 88 of Sylvania, passed away on Monday, April 23 at DeKalb Regional Medical Center.

Visitation was held on Tuesday, April 24 from 5pm to 8pm and Wednesday, April 25 from 8am to 10am.

Funeral services were

held on Wednesday, April 25 at 10am at the funeral home with Bro. Cates Noles officiating. Burial followed in New Canaan Cemetery.

Juanita Stone - 86 of Sylvania, passed away on Wednesday, April 25 at her residence. The family received friends on Saturday, April 28 from 4pm to 8pm and on Sunday, April 29 from noon until 2pm at the funeral home. Funeral services were held on Sunday, April 29 at 2pm at Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Ken Johnson and Manda Mountain officiating.

Burial followed in Unity Cemetery.

Rita J. Barksdale Izell - 67 of Harriston, Tenn., formerly of Fyffe, passed away on Thursday, April 26 at her residence. Visitation was held on Saturday, April 28 from 5pm to 8pm and on Sunday, April 29 from noon to 4pm at the funeral home. Funeral services were held on Sunday, April 29 at 4pm at Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Dennis W. Ray officiating. Burial followed in Unity Cemetery.

Mary Jo Patton Grant - 90 of Rainsville,

Stevenson I Centre I Scottsboro I Higdon I Leesburg Rainsville I North Ft. Payne I South Ft. Payne

www.fssbank.com All the bank you’ll ever need.

passed away on Friday, April 27. The family received friends from 11am until 3pm on Sunday, April 29. Funeral services followed at the Broadway Baptist Church Faith Chapel.

GERALDINE Ignacio Velazquez 66 of Albertville, passed away on Thursday, April 26 at Shepherd’s Cove in Albertville. The family received friends on Friday, April 27 at 10am until the time of service at the funeral home.

Funeral services were held on Friday, April 27 at 2pm at Geraldine Funeral Home. Burial followed in Memory Hill Cemetery.

WT WILSON John L. Johnson - 79 of Douglas, passed away on Thursday, April 26.

The family will be holding a private memorial service at a later date.

J.C. Harper - 88 of Macedonia, passed away on Thursday, April 26.

The family received friends from 4pm to 8pm on Friday, April 27 at the funeral home.

Funeral services were held at 3pm on Saturday, April 28 at Haigwood Baptist Church with Revs. David Wilborn, Randall Harper, and Bobby Hilley. Burial followed in Macedonia Cemetery.

Danny Gerald Townsel - 61 of Dutton,

passed away on Friday, April 27. The family received friends on Sunday, April 29 from 5pm to 8pm at the funeral home. A funeral service with military honors was held at 3pm on Monday, April 30 at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel with Revs. Seth Stone and Chris Andrews officiating.

Burial followed in Liberty Cemetery in Painter.

Billy Kenneth Lackey - 71 of Fort Payne, passed away on Friday, April 27. The family received friends from 4pm to 8pm on Saturday, April 28 at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel.

Funeral services were held at 3pm on Sunday, April 29 at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel with Bros. Larry Haynes and Larry McKinney officiating. Burial followed in Fischer Cemetery.

Billy Jack Bailey - 72 of Valley Head, passed away on Saturday, April 28. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Katie Sue Davis - 69 of Dawson, passed away on Saturday, April 29.

The family received friends from 5:30pm to 8pm on Tuesday, May 1 at the funeral home.

Funeral services were held at 11am on Wednesday, May 2 at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel.

Burial followed in Skirum Cemetery.

6

FRIDAY–MAY 4, 2018

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

POLITICS

Submit your political news to: tyler@southerntorch.com

Jones votes with GOP on Pompeo

U.S. Senator Doug Jones (D-AL) was one of four Democrats to cross party lines to confirm Mike Pompeo as the new Secretary of State. We asked him how felt Pompeo would deal with Russia during recent tensions just before the vote.

By Tyler Pruett Managing Editor WASHINGTON, D.C. — Last Thursday, the U.S. Senate voted to confirm Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Director Mike Pompeo as the new Secretary of State,after Rex Tillerson was fired in March by President Donald Trump.

Upon his confirmation, Pompeo flew to Brussels for the NATO Ministerial Meeting tomorrow. Items discussed in the meeting will be important issues such as establishing talks with Russia during recent tensions and potentially negotiating a peace with the Taliban in Afghanistan.

Pompeo's appointment was made possible after four Democratic Senators and Independent Senator Angus King (Maine) sided with full support from Senate Republicans. Many Democrats cited Pompeo's past comments which they regarded as, "homophobic" and "warmongering."

One of those four Democratic Senators crossing party lines to confirm Pompeo was Alabama Senator Doug Jones. Jones met with Pompeo last Thursday and spoke with him again by

phone yesterday.

While on a conference call with rural newspapers right before the vote, we asked Jones if Pompeo gave him the impression that he would be able to deal with Russia diplomatically, or could it add tension to an already tense situation?

Jones explained that after his meeting and discussions with Pompeo, he felt, "very good about it," and that his background at the CIA was needed to best approach current foreign policy issues.

"He made it very clear to me that diplomacy was his first priority," said Jones. "We've got a lot of issues dealing with Russia; cyber security issues that are very, very serious. We are dealing with that on separate committees; not just intelligence, but also Homeland Security."

"I think one of the advantages that Mike Pompeo brings to this job is his 15 - 16 months as the director of the CIA. He

e r o dm

Nee

knows where things are; he knows the good, the bad, and the ugly about what's going on with Russia," he added.

Jones also related his CIA experience is a, "plus for him leading into these discussions with both Russia, North Korea, (and) very sensitive discussions that we are going to be having about the Iran treaty. I think that is a big advantage for him."

"I have confidence in him; I've told him that, but at the same time, it's my job as a senator to hold his feet to the fire, and to make sure that what he has told me in his confirmation process, that he lives up to it," concluded Jones.

Moments later, the senate would vote to end debate on the confirmation.

Other Democrats that crossed the aisle included Senators Joe Manchin (West Virginia), Heidi Heitkamp (North Dakota), and Joe Donnelly (Indiana).

? s w ne

SUBSCRIBE TODAY

15 25 30

$

For six months

$

$

For Vets & Seniors

For a full year

Name Address Cut this out of this week’s issue & mail it back to us with your check or cash to get your Southern Torch every week!

P.O. Box 614 • Rainsville, AL 35986

Inside the Statehouse

By Steve Flowers AL Political Columnist MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Last week we made you aware that five of the nine seats on our State Supreme Court are up for election this year. In addition, our Court of Civil Appeals and Criminal Appeals have several members up for election.

The folks who sit on these courts essentially have zero name identification. Even when polling is done soon after Alabamians have voted for them, Alabama voters still cannot identify them.

These courts do just what their name implies.

They hear appeals from civil and criminal cases from around the state and are a barrier or gatekeeper between the circuit or trial courts around the state.

They deflect a lot of cases from getting to the Supreme Court. Most states have these appellate courts. They are similar and derived from the federal appellate courts.

Alabama is in the minority of states that elect our judges. All of our judges in Alabama are elected, not only the Supreme and Appellate Court jurists, but also our local Circuit and District Judges. Judges in most states are appointed – usually by the governor.

The crafters of our 1901 Constitution gave the people the right to vote on judges, which was one of the deference’s from having a powerful governor.

There are nine seats

on the State Supreme Court and five seats each on the Court of Civil and Criminal Appeals. All 19 of our state court seats are held by Republicans, which is reflective of our state’s political leanings.

As would be suspected with all Republicans, they tend to be conservative.

Our Court of Civil Appeals leans pro-business, and our Court of Criminal Appeals tends to favor prosecutors over defendants. However, our current Court of Criminal Appeals has a very glaring exception due to the obvious inexplicable length in their handing down an opinion on the conviction of former Speaker, Mike Hubbard.

In almost all cases heard by the Court of Criminal Appeals, they render an opinion upholding a conviction by a local jury. The only exception is when there is an egregious overt error in jury instructions or overt documented prejudice by a Circuit Judge.

Folks, I watched and followed the Mike Hubbard case. Judge Walker, a highly respected and veteran experienced Lee County Circuit Judge did a meticulous job in that trial. A 12 person jury convicted Mike Hubbard of Ethics Law violations.

There was no error in protocol or one shred of evidence that was not presented. It was a lengthy trial. Hubbard had his day in court. A jury of his Lee County peers found him guilty. Judge Walker, in order to avoid error,

read the instructions to the jury to assure that proper language was unmistakable.

As I travel the state on Speaking engagements and Talk shows, invariably the first question asked by Rotarians or callers is, “Why hasn’t Mike Hubbard gone to jail?”. They ask a pertinent question. They suspect foul play or political deference may be at play. It would appear that that might be the case.

Hubbard was convicted almost two years ago. The Court of Criminal Appeals usually rules on an intricate murder trial in less than a year. Yet, Hubbard remains free on Appeal.

The average Alabamian is perplexed by the delay. I suspect politics is at play in this case. It may revolve around campaign contributions to judicial candidates.

The members of the State Court of Criminal Appeals are Liles Burke, Mary Windom, Beth Kellum, Sam Welch and Mike Joiner. There are several newcomers in the June Primary. The list includes running for three open seats; Richard Minor, Donna Beaulieu, Bill Cole, Rich Anderson and veteran Fayette County District Attorney, Chris McCool.

We also have some races on the Court of Civil Appeals next month. The business community is obviously more interested in this Civil Appeals Court than Criminal. In place 1, Baldwin County Circuit Judge Michelle Thomasson may have an edge over Pat Thetford of Birmingham and Christy Edwards of Montgomery. Incumbent Judge Terri Willingham Thomas is being challenged by Chad Hanson for Place 2.

There are a lot of judicial races on our June 5 ballot on both the state and local level.

See you next week.

FRIDAY–MAY 4, 2018

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

G

A

M

E

D

A

7

Y

soccer... round 2

The Sylvania Varsity Girls Soccer Team (Contributed Photo)

By Marla Jones Sports Editor SYLVANIA, Ala. — A handful of local soccer teams have gone the distance this season by making it past the first round of State Playoffs.

Sylvania in its freshman year of having a soccer team has had tremendous success. The Sylvania Varsity Girls Soccer Team, coached by Traci Roper, hosted Mars

Hill Bible School in the first round of the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) State Playoffs.

The Lady Rams defeated Mars Hill Bible School, 3-2.

Lauren Bewley, a junior; Rachel Bewley, a freshman; and Ambriel Stopyak, a seventh grader, each had one goal a piece in the playoff game.

The Lady Rams will face Donohoo in the second round of state playoffs at Donohoo.

The Class 6A Fort Payne Boys (17-3-3) defeated Hazel Green (11-6-2), 4-0. They will also advance to the second

The Fort Payne Varsity Boys Soccer Team (Submitted Photo)

The Collinsville Varsity Boys Soccer Team (Submitted Photo)

round of competeive play. Fort Payne will face Florence High School at home on Friday, May 4 at 7pm.

The 1A/3A Collinsville Boys (20-2-1) defeated Susan Moore (12-8-1), 2-1. In the second round, the Panthers will face off against West Morgan at West Morgan on Friday, May 4 at 7pm.

The Southern Torch would like to wish the best of luck to all three of these local teams as they climb the ladder towards a statewide victory!

8

FRIDAY–MAY 4, 2018

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Local Softball Teams win area

Collinsville - Class 2A Area 12

Geraldine - Class 3A Area 13 Fort Payne Track heads to State Class 2A All Area 15 Team!

1st Team

The Fort Payne Outdoor Track and Field team will compete in the State Tournament in Gulf Shores this week. Look for results in next week's edition! Good luck to the Wildcats!

SUB-STATE BOUND

The Fort Payne High School Golf Team is headed to Sub-State on Monday. Southern Torch will have all the updates for you in next week's print edition.

- P, Dylan Davis - Section - P, Brant Rowell - Fyffe - P, Justin Stiefel - Fyffe - C, Jacob Gentry - Section - 1B, Taylor Payne - Section - 2B, Ike Rowell - Fyffe - SS, Ethan Clark - Section - 3B, Trevier Porter - Section - LF, Rod Bradford - Section - CF, Trevor Gentry - Section - RF, Seth Benefield - Fyffe - DH, Cole Lyles - Fyffe - UT, Chase Townson - Ider

2nd Team

- P, Tanner Cowart - Fyffe - P, Colten Woods - Section - P, Alex Godwin - Ider - 1B, Timothy Bearden - Asbury - 2B, Wiley McCutchen - Section - SS, Dylan Avery - Ider - 3B, Brody Dalton - Fyffe - LF, Alex Brown - Ider - CF, Clay Sampson - Asbury - RF, Peyton Pruett - Section - C, Parker Godwin - Fyffe - DH, Noah Downer - Asbury - UT, Rylie Lassetter - Ider

FRIDAY–MAY 4, 2018

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

ELECT

9

CAROL HIETT DeKalb County Board of Education • District 3

33 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

Graham signs with UNA PD. POL. ADV. BY CAROL HIETT • P.O. BOX 1661 RAINSVILLE, AL 35986

By Marla Jones Sports Editor

Graham signs her letter of intent with her parents and coaches present. (Submitted Photo)

RAINSVILLE, Ala. — On Thursday, Olivia Graham of Plainview signed a national letter of intent with the University of North Alabama to play for the Lions in their 2018-19 basketball season.

The signing was held at the DeKalb County Schools Coliseum with her teammates, friends, coaches, and family present.

Graham played point guard for the Class 3A Lady Bears. She was twice named the DeKalb County Player of the Year and helped lead the Bears to the Elite Eight round of the state playoffs in three of the last four seasons.

Graham finished her career at Plainview as the all-time scoring leader with 2,247 career points.

Graham was a four time All-County and five time All-Area selection.

She was named to the

All-Area Tournament Team from 2014 to 2018 and was honored with the title of MVP of the 2017 DeKalb County Tournament.

In the 2017-18 basketball season, Graham scored more than 600 points and was named the Wendy’s High School Heisman winner.

Congratulations on your success, Olivia! Best of luck in your future endeavors!

Spring Training begins in DeKalb County

DEKALB COUNTY, Ala. — The sound of whistles blowing and cracking helmets has once again has filled the fields of our local schools as spring training begins for DeKalb County's many football teams. In the pictures above, The Plainview Bears, coached by Dustin Goodwin, get ready for the spring jamboree. The Fyffe Red Devils, coached by Paul Benefield, go over drills in their preparation for their upcoming spring games.

Last year, Goodwin coached the Plainview Bears to a playoff appearance after defeating teams like Sardis, Moody, and Sand Rock in the regular season play. The Bears eventually fell to Weaver in the first round of the state playoffs, but are determined to make it even further this year and bring home the blue trophy.

Fyffe began their 2017 season as the defending State Champions of Class 2A. They pulverized teams from Asbury to Cleburne County to LaFayette to make it all the way to the third round of the state playoffs before falling to Sulligent by a narrow margin. The Red Devils hope to push even harder this year.

Check back for updates on spring training across DeKalb County in the following weeks!

Aim’d to Please, Think Stevi B’s NOW WITH OUR NEW TAKE-OUT PRICES YOU CAN GET EXACTLY WHAT YOU WANT!

UP TO TO 55 TOPPINGS TOPPINGS FOR $5 ANY MEDIUM UP UP TO TO 55 TOPPINGS TOPPINGS FOR $8 ANY LARGE UP

FRIDAY–MAY 4, 2018

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

You’ve Got Options !

0%

FINANCING

0% interest

CASH REBATE

REFUND

60

months

REBATE !!! up to a

$1,500.** On qualifying INSTANT REBATE*!

TAX

for

* With approved credit.

CASH

10

DAIKIN units.

Limited time offer.

A New System!

What a smart use of your refund

!

Serving Our Community for 36 Years !

256-845-1742

KICK OFF SUMMER WITH US!

203 MAIN ST E · RAINSVILLE, AL 35986