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THE SOUTHERN TORCH / FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2018 / VOL. 4, NO. 19 / $1.00
FOLLOW
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Stars Fell on Alabama COUNCIL CHANGES
HIRING PROCEDURES
(Marla Jones | Southern Torch) (Marla Jones | Southern Torch)
By Marla Jones & Zach Hester Reporters FORT PAYNE, Ala. — Last week, Hollywood descended upon DeKalb County as widely known
actor William Shatner arrived in Fort Payne ready to record with Alabama’s Jeff Cook. Both Cook and Shatner are signed with Heartland Records of Nashville and have been friends for several years. The pair first met at an awards show in
Pruitt named Pisgah's Head Coach
(Submitted Photo)
1980. Most will know Shatner as the lead of the original Star Trek television series that began in 1966. He portrayed James T.
>> SHATNER, P3 By Marla Jones Sports Editor PISGAH, Ala. — Rainsville native Luke Pruitt was named Head Coach for the Pisgah Eagles earlier today. Pruitt has recently served under his father, Dale Pruitt, as defensive coordinator at Albertville High School. Pruitt obtained his degree at Jacksonville State University in Secondary Education. He is married to Laura Glover Pruitt and they have three sons: Hudson, J.C., and Spencer (and soon to be baby Pruitt #4). In a twist of fate, the position of Head Coach at Pisgah was formerly filled by his dad, Dale. Congratulations to Luke, his family and the Pisgah Eagles!
By Marla Jones Reporter RAINSVILLE, Ala. — (Full Video on our Website) The Rainsville City Council met on Monday, May 7, 2018 for their regularly scheduled meeting. The Council voted to abolish a resolution that required for open jobs within the city government to be posted for seven days internally and then externally for 14 days prior to the job being filled. Councilman Ricky Byrum moved to abolish the resolution and stated, “In the (employee) handbook, it
gives the mayor the authority to hire someone until it comes to the city council and then the council must approve it or disapprove it. That’s the way I would like for it to be adjusted in the handbook.� In addition to the resolution 04-07-2014-1, there is another job posting resolution (05-04-2015) that incorporates requirements prior to city jobs being filled. When asked whether this resolution would be abolished as well, Mayor Rodger Lingerfelt stated that he “didn’t realize that that was on there too� and it will, “probably have to be abolished� also. When asked why, as a Councilmember, Lingerfelt voted yes on the
resolution in 2014 and then changed his position at Monday’s council meeting, he replied, “I didn’t. I didn’t vote for it or against it.� Lingerfelt, as mayor, chairs the city council meetings which chooses to govern their meetings by Robert’s Rules of Order. On Monday night, Lingerfelt did not voice his objection or his intention to abstain from the vote on abolishing the resolution. Under Robert’s Rules of Order, when the chair calls for a vote, the chair is presumed to vote in the affirmative unless the chair
>> RAINSVILLE, P2
Burke heads to Calhoun
By Zach Hester Reporter
MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Joe Burke, vice president and dean of instruction at Northeast Alabama Community College, will move to become the new interim president of Calhoun Community College. Burke has served in both his positions for 11
>> BURKE, P2
(Submitted Photo)
THANK YOUR TEACHERS THIS WEEK By Zach Hester Reporter
FRIDAY 5/11
85 • 64 This year, May 7-11 was designated as National Teacher Appreciation Week with National Teacher Day on May 8 with plenty of special deals in stores and restaurants for our great educators. (NEA.org)
SATURDAY 5/12
87 • 67
SUNDAY 5/13
87 • 67
DEKALB COUNTY, Ala. — It seems like every day or week, we simply pass over another *insert job/ person here* week without so much as a glance. As we celebrate our teachers this week, just know that the educators among us are not part of the groups that we can discuss. They deserve our appreciation now more than ever. Teachers give us more knowledge, confidence, and encouragement than we will ever know. In the wake of prominent issues coming up surround
schools at our national political level, it's important to remember and appreciate the faces of the people who have our back every day in and out of the classroom. DeKalb County Schools issued a brief statement of appreciation to ALL our county school teachers: "Our teachers spend countless hours each year, in and out of the classroom, preparing bulletin boards, classrooms, lesson plans, grading papers and investing in your student,
>> TEACHERS, P3
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–MAY 11, 2018
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
Commission meets on roads, teachers
RAINSVILLE
By Zach Hester Reporter
voices his objection or his intention to abstain from the vote. Lingerfelt remained silent meaning his vote would officially be recorded in the affirmative or in support of the motions made. When asked about the proposal in 2014, Lingerfelt stated, “I really don’t know who brought it up. Some people want more control, others want less. The council brought up to abolish this. I did not bring it up.” Minutes from that 2014 meeting reveal that former Councilmembers Joey Graham and Melissa Ledbetter led the effort to enact the change in hiring procedures. Councilmember Byrum stated, “No, we just [did] away with the seven day waiting period.” When asked about why the resolution was passed in the first place, he said, “I can’t answer because I don’t know who [did] that, because I wasn’t there. We have people that come in and need jobs and can’t wait 14 days.” Under the Code of Alabama, section 11-43-81, as well as a 2011 Alabama Supreme Court case, Scott v. Coachman, mayors in Alabama possess the authority to hire city employees who have not been designated as officers of the municipality by the city council. In other business, Chuck Chitwood with CDG Engineering updated the Council on the Chavies Bridge Project. Chitwood stated that bidding process would start on June 28 and the project would start in late September to early October with an estimated completion date of sometime in April 2019. Ann Jones, a local business owner, addressed the Council on the need for the parking spaces to be striped in the front of her business. Jones stated that since the new paving project in the downtown area had been completed, she did not
FORT PAYNE, Ala. — (Full video on our website) At today’s regularly scheduled meeting of the DeKalb County Commission, reports on the road department, sheriff’s office and community organizations were heard. The first item of business was a maintenance report update from DeKalb County Road Department Superintendent Tom Broyles in regards to new projects and progress on existing projects. Due to drier weather, work began on a new bridge on County Road 212. “We’ve been able to get quite a bit of work done,” said Broyles. “It’s still two or three weeks away from putting traffic on it, but hopefully the weather will hold up.” Several roads in both Commission Districts 1 and 3 are being retreated as well. The need for bids were discussed for a liquid asphalt storage tank just north of Henagar. While the tank is still fourteen weeks out (looking at August for potential groundbreaking), Commission President Ricky Harcrow motioned on Broyles’ recommendation for the Commission to be empowered to begin bids for that project. Chief Deputy Michael Edmondson reported that two Sheriff’s Office employees, Sebastian Gomez and Will Fraiser, resigned. Both are headed for new jobs. President Harcrow went on to announce that a new cemetery has been inducted in Alabama’s Historic Cemetery Register. In DeKalb County, we have 52 cemeteries that sit on the state’s Historic Cemetery List. Now Robertson’s Chapel in Rainsville has been added to that list, bringing the county to 53 cemeteries on the historical registry. The next item was Teacher Appreciation Week. This year, the week
falls on May 7-11 as schoolteachers around the nation are celebrated for their contributions to not only education, but society as a whole. “I can’t emphasize enough how much we are indebted to our school system and our teachers, who are ordinary people who perform an extraordinary task. That makes them extraordinary people,” said Harcrow. “I don’t even have the vocabulary to describe what our teachers do for our young people today.” Harcrow went on to encourage voters to approve the renewal of the education taxes on this June’s ballot because of how important it is for the community. “I hope that the general public will understand how important a ‘Yes’ vote is on these important taxes. It’s not a new tax… it’s all the educational taxes that go to our county and city schools.” District 2 Commissioner and DeKalb County Board of Education member Matt Sharp followed with, “I firmly endorse [the tax] and appreciate Mr. Harcrow and the Commission for pushing for the authorization of that tax.” Full remarks from each Commissioner can be found in the video on our website. In total, the Commission took the following actions: • Followed the recommendation of Superintendent Broyles to seek authorization for the purchase of a trailer and approved Broyles to begin looking at prices for a new service truck • Approved Broyles’ request for a flatbed to be built onto an existing Road Department truck through Childersburg Truck Service • Approved President Harcrow to continue serving on the ACCA Legislative Committee The next meeting of the DeKalb County Commission will be held on May 22, 2018.
from Page 1
have designated stripped parking places. Jones said she felt this was unsafe for her customers. Project Manager with the Alabama Department of Transportation and Councilmember Bejan Taheri stated that these spaces would be stripped for her before the end of the week. The Council took the following measures in the meeting: • Approved a $500 donation to the county DARE program • Approved a resolution allowing the surplus of various City Hall office supplies • Approved a drainage pipe for the TBEC for a cost of $1,500.00 • Hired Tharis Chavez and Samantha Galloway for summer part-time work at the Library • Approved work to be completed on Ranch Road for a cost of $1,800 • Approved ladder and hose testing for the fire department for a cost of $3,000. • Accepted the resignation of firefighter Coty Roberts and will post the job opening internally for seven days • Approved the posting of (2) jobs internally for seven days at the police department • Approved the opening of a donation account for the fire department at First Southern State Bank Following the regular business, the Council and Mayor went into executive session to discuss the good name and character of a city employee. After approximately twenty minutes, the Council exited the executive session and voted 4-1 to terminate the employment of patrolmen Chris Kerby. The next Rainsville Council meeting will be on May 21, 2018. Work session will begin at 4:15 and meeting at 5:00 p.m. UPDATE: At press time, we received a notice from Rainsville City Hall about a special session on Thursday, May 10 at 4pm to reinstate Police Officer Chris Kerby and set a due process for him.
BURKE from Page 1 years. The announcement was made by the Alabama Community College System on Wednesday morning at a board of trustees meeting. “Dr. Burke is a proven leader who has devoted his career to improving the lives of community college students and I’m confident his skill set fits the description of the leader Calhoun Community College needs at this time,” said Alabama Community College System (ACCS) President Jimmy H. Baker. A search for a permanent president has not begun. “I’m a firm believer in the power of community college and its ability to change the lives of those who attend,” said Burke. “It is a privilege to be able to serve students in this
new capacity and I look forward to working with my colleagues at Calhoun to continue the college’s commitment to success for every student.” Burke is a career educator with more than 30 years of experience in higher education as an instructor, counselor and administrator. He started teaching at NACC in the latter half of 1988 as a psychology teacher and by serving in the Admissions Office. After 14 years, he became Director of Admissions and Student Services and then became Vice President in 2007. Burke will begin his tenure as interim president at Calhoun Community College on Monday, May 14.
HELP WANTED Must be proficient in technology including Microsoft Office Suite. Professional office environment. Legal / Secretarial experience a plus.
Fax resume to: Chris Croft, Attorney at Law, P.C. • (256) 638-1198
Sandy Creek Apartments 159 George Wallace Dr. Rainsville, AL 35986 Family Households 1 and 2 Bedroom Apartments Accessible Units Rent is based on income ~ Section 8 Accepted Rental Assistance Available on a Limited Basis
Please Call: (1) 256-638-6959 TDD/TYY #: 800-548-2546 This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer
Rainsville PD warns of jury duty phone scam
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.
(File Photo)
By Staff Reports RAINSVILLE, Ala. — According to Rainsville Police Chief Kevin Smith: On 3 May 2018 I received complaints that a new phone scam was occurring in the Rainsville area. The victims have received phone calls from a person claiming to be with the Jackson County Sheriff’s office. The caller would then tell the victim that they had a warrant for their arrest for missing jury duty. The caller would then instruct the victim to wire money to them to take care of the warrant without arrest. This is not legal and should be reported to any law enforcement. If you live in the Rainsville Police jurisdiction and this has happened to you, please contact us at 256-638-2157. Thank you and have a blessed day. - Chief Kevin Smith
FRIDAY–MAY 11, 2018
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
COMMUNITY
TEACHERS from Page 1
our DeKalb County student body. We are thankful for all their hard work. Consider taking some time this week to thank a teacher in your life that has made a difference, as well as encouraging your child/ student to do the same! Thank you teachers for all you do! We are #DeKalbCountyProud!" When asked about her favorite memory as a teacher, Crossville English Teacher Megan Stone said, "I was teaching poetry, my favorite part of literature, and I was attempting to get the kids to grasp the concept of scansion and meter. The kids were very overwhelmed, but when I compared it to real-life applications such as ocean waves and beats in a song... it was like 25+ light bulbs went off at the same time. The students picked it up so quickly. It is in these moments that I find the most joy in my
profession." Stone said she feels that building relationships with students will encourage them to work harder and accomplish things that they never believed they could. Especially when they have someone right in front of them cheering them on. "It goes beyond curriculum," Stone said recalling a memory of consoling a student after the sudden passing of the student's parent. "Sometimes it is about loving others and watching them thrive. If I had to choose over again,
Submit your community events to: zach@southerntorch.com
I'd still choose teaching." We can never thank teachers enough, but we can take a special moment this week during National Teacher Appreciation Week to share our support for the great educators in our lives. To join the National Education Association (NEA) and the National Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) in saying "Thank You" this week, visit nea.org/ grants/teachersday to see how you can show your appreciation to the teacher who's changed your life. Two living legends, Jeff Cook and William Shatner, discuss their upcoming country album. (Marla Jones | Southern Torch)
SHATNER from Page 1
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Kirk, the captain of the USS Enterprise. The short stint of the series made Shatner a cultural icon among fans across the world. Shatner also won a pair of Emmys for his supporting role in Boston Legal. “We’re here at Jeff Cook’s studio, putting together a country music album,” he said. When asked about why he wanted to go in country music, Shatner simply replied that he was just following Cook’s lead. “It’s original music, not necessarily by us,” said Cook. “It should be completed in a few more days with the help of an engineer.” Cook was very young when he started playing music. He began playing lead guitar with a band at age 13 and still works on writing songs every day. It just comes naturally. “His mother crooning him to sleep was probably his biggest musical influence,” said Shatner with a chuckle. “Jeff does it all and we’re combining our forces.” Cook is best known as
one of the founding members of Alabama, the Grammy award winning band from Fort Payne with a discography that spans an entire generation. With more than twenty studio albums and 33 number one country singles, Alabama has proven to be one of the most successful acts of all time. Shatner said the album has been in the works for a long time and went on to say that Cook had been preparing it for almost fifty years. “When I was doing Star Trek, I thought I would love to do country music,” continued Shatner. “Fifty years later, here we are.” “This is the first time that I’ve sat down with
really top professional country music people and been part of the process of making an album. For me, it’s not only been eye-opening but vocally-opening. [It’s a] whole new experience for me.” The contents of this album are set to be both humorous and serious stuff with “good time stuff” thrown in for good measure, according to Cook. The album is set to be released this summer, but neither said they would have the time to tour the record. “Just keep your eyes and ears open. One day we’ll get this thing on the market,” said Cook. “Very soon.”
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FRIDAY–MAY 11, 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. May 12, Decoration at Stewart Cemetery Stewart Cemetery in the Lookout Mountain/Fort Payne area will be hosting
their decoration on Saturday, May 12. They hope to see you there! May 12, Cody Renfroe Rod Run/Poker Run Come spend the day looking at Vintage, Street Rods, Hot Rods, Motorcycles & Tractors at the 8th Annual Cody Renfroe Rod Run/Poker Run! This car show is in memory of firefighter Cody Renfroe. There will be kid entertainment, great food and more. All proceeds go to Crossville Volunteer Fire Department! May 15, Chuck Brodsky returns to Mentone - Chuck Brodsky is making a return to the mountains. Come out and enjoy Brodsky’s blend of quirksy, rootsy storytelling through music. The venue is MACC’s temporary home (the former Kamama Gallery) at 5951 Alabama Hwy 117, Mentone, Ala. 35984. Admission is a suggested $15 donation will the proceeds benefiting the Mentone Arts & Cultural Center. Call (256) 674-3366 or email
Terrell Chiropractic, LLC OPEN SIX DAYS A WEEK!
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mentoneartscenter@gmail. com. 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 17, NACC Graduation - Northeast Alabama Community College will be holding their spring graduation ceremony on May 17 at 7pm at the Northeast Alabama Agri-Business Center in Rainsville. May 19, Hammondville Fire Dept. BBQ Fundraiser - Join the Hammondville Volunteer Fire Department in this year’s annual BBQ Fundraiser! The plate will have a BBQ sandwich, chips, drink and dessert. Whole butts will be sold in advance. It will begin at 10am and plates will be $7 each.
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! May 31, ABC Plus Pharmacy Blood Drive - A blood drive will be held on Thursday, May 31 from 11am to 4pm at ABC Plus Pharmacy in Fort Payne!
FRIDAY–MAY 11, 2018
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
POLITICS
DEATH NOTICES
Inside the Statehouse By Steve Flowers AL Political Columnist MONTGOMERY, Ala. — We are less than four weeks away from our June 5th primary. Those of us who follow Alabama politics have pointed to this year as being a very entertaining and interesting gubernatorial year. However, last year’s resignation by former Governor, Robert Bentley and the ascension of Kay Ivey from Lt. Governor to the Governor’s office has put a damper on the excitement we anticipated in the governor’s race. Kay took over the reins of state government and her appearance as a seasoned veteran of state politics seems to resonate with voters. Polling indicates that the governor’s race is hers to lose. Therefore, the less she does may be the best course. Her support is a mile wide and an inch deep. A slip and fall could derail her train. Her perch reminds me of a story surrounding the last truly colorful southern governor, Edwin Edwards of Louisiana. Ole Edwin had a wide lead like Kay’s in the polls a few weeks prior to his race for reelection as governor of the Pelican state. The press asked him about two weeks out about his significant lead in the polls. Edwin’s reply was, “Yeah, the only way that ole Edwin can lose this race is to get
caught in bed with a dead woman or a live boy.” Tommy Battle, the popular Mayor of Huntsville is poised to make a formidable run at Kay in the closing weeks. He has some money in the bank and will come out of the vote rich Tennessee Valley with a good friends and neighbors vote. The Evangelical Roy Moore voters appear to be coalescing around Evangelist Scott Dawson. My guess is that Walt Maddox, the young 45-year old Mayor of Tuscaloosa is benefitting from a grass roots support among African American voters in the Democratic primary. If indeed this is the case, Maddox will be favored to capture the Democratic nomination. Will Barfoot has emerged as the frontrunner in the closely watched open Montgomery/River Region Republican seat. Incumbent State Senator Paul Bussman is in a close contest with Cullman City Council President Garlan Grudger. Polling indicates that this one may be too close to call. Bussman’s departure from the GOP Senate Caucus has given his constituents the perception that he may be rendered ineffective. This district is politically savvy. Veteran educator, Wayne Reynolds, may be poised to win the State Board of Education District 8 seat in the Huntsville-
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Tennessee Valley area being vacated by Mary Scott Hunter. Mary Scott and Sam Givhan are battling for an open state Senate seat in Huntsville. This race is one of the best Senate races in the state. Both Givhan and Hunter are heirs to great Alabama legacies. Givhan’s grandfather was legendary Black Belt State Senator Walter Givhan. Ms. Hunter’s daddy, Scott Hunter, is one of Bear Bryant’s famous quarterbacks. Speaking of legends, Alabama political icon, Milton McGregor, was laid to rest a few weeks ago. He would have been 79 today. Montgomery’s Frazer Memorial Methodist Church was overflowing. A good many of the state’s past and present political powers were there, including several past governors and a sitting U.S. Senator. One of the state’s most famous and personable preachers, John Ed Mathison, presented a masterful sermon. He is a great man. He and his wife were best friends with Milton and Pat. It was actually a joyous political homecoming event. As folks were visiting and reminiscing, one of Alabama’s most prominent pulmonary physicians, Dr. David Thrasher, who has been a doctor to many famous Alabamians and was one of Milton’s pallbearers was visiting with me and said, “Steve, I was at Governor Wallace’s funeral when Franklin Graham spoke and it doesn’t compare to this.” Then he quipped, “Steve, I got a call from Billy Graham. He said that he had met a nice guy at breakfast by the name of Milton McGregor. Milton said to tell John Ed to remind the people down here that if they did good and believed in Jesus that they could be a winner too and join him.” That’s what John Ed said. See you next week.
KERBY Christina Deno - 44 of Henagar, passed away on Sunday, May 6 at Erlanger Medical Center. The family will receive friends on Friday, May 11 from 5pm to service time. A memorial service will be held on Friday, May 11 at 6pm at Kerby Funeral Home Chapel. Carol Williams - 66 of Henagar, passed away on Sunday, May 6 at DeKalb Regional Medical Center. The family received friends on Monday, May 7 from 6pm to 8pm and on Tuesday, May 8 from 9am to service time. Funeral services were held on Tuesday, May 8 at 11am at Kerby Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. James Grindstaff officiating. Burial followed in Green Haven Memorial Gardens.
12pm to 2pm on Tuesday, May 8 at Brown’s Chapel Baptist Church. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Tuesday, May 8 at the funeral home with Bros. Hoyt Gilbert and Earnest Corbitt officiating. Burial followed in the adjoining cemetery. J.H. Brown Sr. - 98 of Henagar, passed away on Saturday, May 5. The family received friends from 5pm to 8pm on Monday, May 7 at the funeral home. Funeral services were held on Tuesday, May 8 at 11am at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel with Bros. Charles Brown and Gary Haymon officiating. Burial followed in Wesley’s Chapel Cemetery.
RAINSVILLE
WT WILSON Barron Junior Cooper - 72 of Rainsville, passed away on Thursday, May 3. The family received friends from 1pm to 8pm on Saturday, May 5 and from 8am to 8pm on Sunday, May 6 at the funeral home. Funeral services were held on Monday, May 7 at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel with Bros. Morris Hicks, Billy Helton, and Donald Lindsey officiating. Burial followed in Green’s Chapel Cemetery. Kenneth Carl Cisco - 59 of Section, passed away on Thursday, May 3. The family received friends on Friday, May 4 from 5pm to 8pm and on Saturday, May 5 from 8am to 8pm at the Zion Hill Church. Funeral services were held at the church at 2pm on Sunday, May 6 with Rev. Bill Meads officiating. Burial followed in New Canaan Cemetery. Melba Yvonne Cuzzort Gant - 85 of Geraldine, passed away on Saturday, May 5. The family received friends from 5pm to 8pm on Monday, May at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel and from
Hugh Don Williams - age 86 of Rainsville, Alabama passed away on Tuesday, May 8, 2018 at his residence. He was the son of the late George Ruben & Bessie Lou Williams of Rainsville. He was a loving husband and father. He was married to Wanda Jean “Bobbye” Stout of Pine Ridge for 68 years, and they had two children, Rodney Williams and Kelly Williams Bryson. In early adulthood,Hugh Don worked with his brother, Dewey Williams, in a feed mill business as well as driving a peddling truck, or “rolling store” as it was nicknamed, throughout DeKalb County. He then joined the army and served in the Korean War. After the war, he worked for Davenport Gas. In the early 60s, Hugh Don again went to work with his brother Dewey, becoming a partner in the family ran grocery store. The two brothers were later joined by a third brother, G.R. Williams, in the family business. In the early 80s, Hugh Don became one of the first retail counselors for Mitchell Grocery Corporation where he worked until his retirement in 2007.
Hugh Don was active in the Chavies community all his adult life and attended Pilgrims Rest Primitive Baptist Church in Rainsville, Alabama for many years. Hugh Don is survived by his wife, "Bobbye”, one son Rodney Hugh Williams and wife Jeanette of Rainsville, Al,one daughter, Kelly Bryson and husband Wally of Douglasville, GA, one sister, Virginia Latty and husband Ralph of Rainsville, AL, one adoptive brother, Robert Dick Anderson and wife Charlene of Centre, AL, and two grandsons, Will Bryson and wife Ashley of Charleston, South Carolina , and Tucker Bryson of Douglasville,GA. Other survivors include numerous nieces and nephews along with a multitude of friends. He was preceded in death by his parents George Ruben and Bessie Lou Williams, seven brothers, Dewey, Jack , Ray , Elton ,G.R., LLoyd , and Billy Williams, and one grandson,William Alexander Bryson. Funeral services will be held on Friday, May 11, 2018 at 1PM at the Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel with Elder Ricky Harcrow officiating. Burial will follow in Mountain View Memory Gardens with Rainsville Funeral Home, Inc. directing. The family would like to extend a special thank you to special friends Randy Smith, Kathy Townson, and Fran Shankles for all their help during their loved one’s illness. Evelyn Pascual - 2 of Fort Payne, passed away on Monday, May 7 at her residence. Visitation was held on Tuesday, May 8 from 4pm to 8pm and on Wednesday, May 9 from 8am to 10am at the funeral home. Funeral services were held on Wednesday, May 9 at 11am at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church in Fort Payne. Burial followed in Glenwood Cemetery.
CORNER STONE Teddy Ray Smothers - 66 of Birmingham (formerly of Henagar), passed away on Sunday, May 6 at Birmingham Nursing and Rehabilitation. The family received friends from 4pm to 8pm on Monday, May 7; from 11am to 8pm on Tuesday, May 8; and from 9am to 10:30am on Wednesday, May 9. A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, May 9 at 11am at Lea’s Chapel Cemetery.
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.
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FRIDAY–MAY 11, 2018
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
Walls Is An Overcomer By Marla Jones Sports Editor
(Marla Jones | Southern Torch)
STATE CHAMPS
CROSSVILLE, Ala. — William Arthur Ward said, “Adversity causes some men to break; others to break records.” It’s this mentality that encompasses everything about Crossville High School senior, Nick Walls. On June 2, 2014, Walls was involved in a four-wheeler accident that resulted in an L2 spinal injury and doctors telling him that he would never walk again. After two-and-a-half years of therapy, he is a testament of how determination and will can turn tragedy up on its head. Prior to his accident, he was very involved in basketball. “That’s what I wanted to do for the rest of my life,” said Walls. Then-Principal David Uptain and Driver’s Education instructor, Coach
Randall Haynes, asked Walls if he would be interested in helping start up a track team. “I said ‘Don’t you have to be able to run?’ to be on the track team?” Walls asked them. “They began to tell me about the many possibilities that track offers. That’s when I started getting interested in javelin, shot put and the discus.” "To say I'm going to miss him after graduation would be an understatement!" said Haynes. "I will be there to shake his hand as he walks across to receive his diploma." In the three years that Walls has participated in track, he has advanced to State and then won that State Championship in all divisions he participated in. This year at the State Track Meet in Gulf Shores, he won the Class 5A Wheelchair Discus with a throw of 77 feet, 4 inches. He also won the Boys Shot Put Wheelchair
(Class 5A) and the Boys Javelin Throw with a score of 63-04.50. Recently, he was the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Athlete of the Year. Walls plans to attend Snead State Community College with the hopes of pursuing a music education degree. He plays guitar, piano, and loves to sing. He will participate in Nationals on July 24-27, 2018 in Fort Wayne, Ind. to defend his previous National records. He hopes to continue his track career in the 18-22 Division. With his rankings, he hopes to eventually qualify for the U.S. Paralympics Olympic Team. While adversity might break some people down, it causes others to grow and learn. Nick Walls is a prime example of the latter. We wish the best of luck to Nick in his future endeavors. We are rooting for you!
Ivey Signs with Gadsden State
(Submitted Photo by Sonia Turner)
Ivey signs his letter of intent with his brother, Steven, Coach Dustin Dalton, and Principal Westley King (Marla Jones | Southern Torch)
Congratulations to the Fort Payne Lady Wildcats for winning the Class 6A 4x800 State Championship!
FINAL FOUR (Submitted Photo)
By Marla Jones Sports Editor FORT PAYNE, Ala. — The Fort Payne Boys Soccer Team (18-3-3) defeated Florence (13-7-1), 1-0, on May 4, 2018. This win allows them to advance to the Final Four. They will face Pell City on Friday, May 11 at 11am in the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) in the State Playoffs at John Hunt Park in Huntsville. We wish them the best of luck in the pursuit to bring home the blue trophy!
By Marla Jones Sports Editor SYLVANIA, Ala. — Alex Ivey signed with Gadsden State Community College on Tuesday, May 8, 2018. Ivey is the first player in the Sylvania Tennis program history to play tennis at a collegiate level. Ivey closes out his tennis career at Sylvania boosting a 27-9 singles
record and a 26-10 record in doubles. Ivey has received several accolades in his career. In his Sophomore year, he was the No. 5 Singles Sectional Tournament Champion. As a Junior, he was the No. 3 Singles Sectional Tournament Runner-Up, the No. 2 doubles Sectional Tournament Champion and his team finished 7th in the
State Tournament. For his Senior year, Ivey was the No. 1 Singles Sectional Tournament Runner-up, No. 1 doubles Sectional Tournament Champion. The Rams finished 7th in the State Tournament and finished 5th in state at No.1 singles We look forward to seeing what Alex can achieve at Gadsden State Community College.
Catch of the Week Congratulations to this week's Southern Torch Catch of the Week! Xander Shipman caught this monster last weekend. Xander is eight years old and in the second grade at Sylvania School. Submit your photos to marla@southerntorch.com to be our next Catch of the Week.
FRIDAY–MAY 11, 2018
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
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Local Softball Teams win area
Class 6A Fort Payne Wildcats
Class 3A Plainview Bears ELECT
CAROL HIETT DeKalb County Board of Education • District 3
CONGRATULATIONS PLAINVIEW! PD. POL. ADV. BY CAROL HIETT • P.O. BOX 1661 RAINSVILLE, AL 35986
Regional Matchups Are You Ready for Some Football? Class 2A Collinsville v. Woodland May 10 @ 12pm in Bowers Park, Tuscaloosa
Class 2A Ider v. Cold Springs May 10 @ 12pm at Huntsville Sportsplex
Class 3A Geraldine v. East Lawrence
Spring Jamborees are in the air and football fans will be treated to several games this week! The Plainview Bears will take to the field on Thursday as they face their rival, the North Sand Mountain Bisons beginning at 7pm at Plainview. The Sylvania Rams will host a spring jamboree on Friday, May 11 beginning at 5pm.
May 11 @ 12pm at Huntsville Sportsplex
SCHEDULE
Class 3A Plainview v. Colbert Heights
5PM - Geraldine Bulldogs v. Valley Head Tigers
May 11 @ 12pm at Huntsville Sportsplex
6:30PM - Fyffe Red Devils v. Collinsville Panthers
Class 6A Fort Payne v. Athens
8PM - Sylvania Rams v. Ider Hornets
May 10 @ 10:30 pm at Huntsville Sportsplex
Each team will play three full quarters with the JV in the third.
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FRIDAY–MAY 11, 2018
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY
Sports Editor Marla Jones with her late mother, Annie Lee Samples
Advertising Representative Amy Thrash with her mother, Brenda
Graphic Design Artist/Reporter Zach Hester with his mother, Tina, & sister, Jada
Proverbs 31:10-31 King James Version (KJV)
10 Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies. 11 The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil. 12 She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life. 13 She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands. 14 She is like the merchants' ships; she bringeth her food from afar. 15 She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens. 16 She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard. 17 She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms. 18 She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night. 19 She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff. 20 She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy. 21 She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet. 22 She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple. 23 Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land. 24 She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant. 25 Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come. 26 She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness. 27 She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness. 28 Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her. 29 Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all. 30 Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised. 31 Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.
Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies. My mother, Annie Lee Samples was such a woman. On Mother’s Day, I have fond memories of my mother. She left this world of sorrow, seven years ago this month. Mother’s Day is a celebration honoring the mother of the family and the influences of mothers in society. After my mother’s passing, I refused to celebrate Mother’s Day for several years. After much thought, I realized that I was doing my own sons, Justin and Logan an injustice. I am blessed to be their mother. They are without a doubt, my biggest and best accomplishment. I may fail daily but I know that I will always have the support of my children. On Sunday, if your Mother is still with you or not, take a moment to reflect on the many fond memories of your Mom. She loves you like God loves you, and would lay down her life for her children. Philippians 1:3, “I thank my God every time I remember you.”
- Marla Jones -
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