The Southern Torch — Vol. 4, Issue 3

Bobby Ledbetter’s

Twin City Used Car Sales 1411 Glenn Blvd SW, Fort Payne, AL 35967

WWW.BOBBYLEDBETTER.COM • (256) 844-2210

THE SOUTHERN TORCH / FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2018 / VOL. 4, NO. 3 / $1.00

LIKE

>> THIS WEEK IN POLITICS

>> THIS WEEK IN SPORTS DeKalb County JV Champions!

WATCH

TWEET

>> THIS WEEK IN COMMUNITY Parents of Nora Rose to speak at Sanctity of Life

DeKalb Democrats begin qualifying for 2018

Rainsville: Open for Business? Race for Circuit

Judge takes shape

Three Republican candidates have filed qualifying paperwork to run on the ballot in 2018 for Circuit Judge, Place 2: (Left to Right) Andrew Hairston, Scott Lloyd, and Jeff McCurdy.

By Tyler Pruett Managing Editor tyler@southerntorch.com

The Rainsville City Council held their regularly scheduled meeting on January 15, 2018. (Marla Jones | Southern Torch)

By Marla Jones Reporter marla@southerntorch.com RAINSVILLE, Ala.—The Rainsville City Council met on Monday January 15, 2018.

Prior to the meeting, a public hearing was held to approve a rezoning request for

FAMILY FIRST MEDICINE

property located on Marshall Road. The new property owner, Trampas Shankles, was seeking to have his 5 acre tract rezoned from agriculture to residential in order to subdivide it for new home construction. Shankles’ request was unanimously approved on November 27, 2017 by the Rainsville Zoning Board for the purpose of a new

subdivision consisting of 5 lots on the 5 acre tract. The zoning board then sent the recommendation to the Council for final approval.

At the public hearing adjacent property owners and Shankles were given the opportunity to address the Council to state their support or opposition to the Council giving

Henagar Police vehicle "totaled" in accident

(256) 638-9161

final approval for the zoning change.

First, Trampas Shankles presented his plan for subdividing the property and spoke of his intention to reasonably accommodate some of the driveway requests by the adjacent property owners.

>> See RAINSVILLE COUNCIL, P2

FORT PAYNE, Ala. — Andrew Hairston, Scott Lloyd, and Jeff McCurdy (all Republicans) have all officially filed paperwork to qualify to run for Circuit Judge Place 2 in the 9th Judicial Circuit.

Longtime Democrat Judge Hon. Randall L. Cole announced last year he’s retiring from the seat. The 9th Judicial Circuit covers both DeKalb and Cherokee

Counties.

The local Democratic Party has not yet had a candidate declare a run for the seat, but the qualifying deadline is not until February 9th, so we can’t rule out any surprises.

If no Democratic candidate(s) qualify, then the race will be decided between Hairston, Lloyd, and McCurdy on June 5, 2018.

We caught up with each of the three candidates after submitting their paperwork,

>> See CIRCUIT JUDGE, P6

Rainsville PD has plenty of coats for those in need!

Now offering

AFTER HOURS for the month of January

(Mon., Tues., Wed. until 8pm)

Due to Flu Season!

A Henagar Police Officer was involved in a two vehicle accident on Highway last Thursday night.

(Henagar Police Department)

By Tyler Pruett Managing Editor tyler@southerntorch.com

HENAGAR, Ala. — According to Henagar Police Chief Randell Smith, a police officer was involved in a two-car accident last Thursday night; leaving Henagar out a police vehicle. The 2017 Ford Explorer was referred to as “totaled” the following morning.

The collision happened at approximately 11:30 pm on Highway 75 (Broad Street), near Limon’s Restaurant in Henagar.

Another driver pulled out in front of Police Officer Clay Monroe while he was driving down Highway 75. Chief Smith transported Officer Monroe to DeKalb Regional Medical Center, where he was treated and released a couple of hours later.

The driver of the other vehicle refused treatment at the scene. While he reportedly did not have a driver license, he did have insurance.

“I’m just glad that no one got seriously hurt. Cars can be replaced, but people can’t,” said Chief Smith.

Chief Smith said they put in a call to Montgomery the next morning to inquire about getting a replacement vehicle.

FRIDAY 1/19

46 • 32

SATURDAY 1/20

51 • 39

SUNDAY 1/21

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The Rainsville Police Department has collected around 1000 coats for people in need to keep warm this winter. (Tyler Pruett | Southern Torch)

By Tyler Pruett Managing Editor tyler@southerntorch.com

RAINSVILLE, Ala. — The entire DeKalb County community pitched in big time to help Police Chief Kevin Smith and the Rainsville Police Department collect hundreds of coats for those that may not have warm clothes for the winter.

"I estimate we've received 1000 coats from all

over," said Smith. "And that's a very conservative estimate."

I would certainly have to agree, as the coats are literally overflowing the storage space available at the Rainsville Police Department.

Even with all the coats there currently, the department has already given out 200 to 300.

Smith said that he is currently trying to distribute the coats throughout the community, and has contacted numerous churches and organizations to help

them find a person in need.

"We're also instructing our officers when they go on calls if they see a child in need to come to the office, pick one up, and make sure they get it," said Smith.

"I feel that is part of protecting and serving," he added.

The coats have been contributed to the department over the last couple of weeks after Chief

>> See RAINSVILLE COATS, P2

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2

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FRIDAY–JANUARY 19, 2018

Rainsville Council, page 1 Rainsville Coats, page 1

Summer Lingerfelt, an adjacent property owner and the daughter-in-law of Mayor Rodger Lingerfelt, spoke first and expressed concerns for increased traffic on Marshall Road and cited several accidents that occurred recently. She stated that the reason she and her husband built on the adjacent road was due to the surrounding agricultural environment and preferred less houses around their own home.

Next, Amanda Westbrook, a local business owner on Marshall Road, stated the reason she moved her beauty shop to Marshall Road, was so she could watch her daughter play at her parents’ house across the street while she worked. She was at the meeting representing her parents, Junior and Mary Bobo.

Westbrook stated her primary issue was for safety concerns because more houses on the road would lead to more traffic. She also stated that the adjacent property owners would not know who would be living in the new proposed houses and the new home owners could turn out to be drug dealers or sexual predators.

Finally, zoning board member, Skeeter Logan explained the zoning board’s process of review in the November meeting. He also explained that all members were present and unanimously voted in the affirmative for approval of the proposed subdivision plan.

The zoning for the 5 acre tract was given final approval by the Council with a 4-2 vote.

Councilmember Brandon Freeman and Mayor Lingerfelt opposed the plan. Shankles plans to start building homes on the property by spring of this year.

On Tuesday morning, Southern Torch reached out for comments regarding the zoning

meeting.

Amanda Westbrook declined to comment and Summer Lingerfelt could not be reached.

Shankles stated “The City of Rainsville and the way it's set up, makes it real hard to do business because of the zoning.

Before we bought the property, I went to look at the zoning map at city hall and the property behind this property, which is a subdivision, was zoned agricultural so I thought I wouldn’t have to do anything.”

Shankles added, “After we purchased the property, I again went to city hall and asked what I needed to do, and was told that I would have to have it (the 5 acre tract) rezoned. I asked them why the other subdivision had never been zoned residential and they said that was in a previous administration and they had nothing to do with that. I guess, we will have to do this everytime we buy property in Rainsville to be sure we comply with their zoning ordinances.”

Mayor Lingerfelt stated, “It is just one of those things we have got to go through as a City.

Because we have zoning laws, some communities do not have zoning laws. It's usually always a pretty hot topic, when you are fooling with someone’s property or adjacent property. It went down to a vote and that's all I have to say about that.”

Southern Torch also reached out to the Council for their thoughts.

Councilmember Freeman, the Council liaison to the zoning board, voted no. Freeman stated, “I thought it went well, it was handled in a business manner.

Some agreed and some disagreed. We will be moving on to the next issue.”

Councilmember Marshall

Stiefel, voted in favor of the rezoning request and the plan for the new subdivision on Marshall Road. He added, “I am discouraged that our own city government regulations and red tape are negatively affecting small business and and growth in Rainsville.” Stiefel also stated, ”He was shocked that (Councilmember) Freeman did not back the (zoning) board recommendation, considering he was the liaison to that board and that the Mayor had voted on an issue that involved some of his family members. But today, the little guy won and overcome the city’s red tape.”

Other Items approved by the Council: •Authorized the Mayor to sign Pyrotecnico contract •Approved a plan for Kevin Keller to build a stage at the Field of Dreams for $32,000.00.

Councilmember Ricky Byrum voted no. The Mayor and Freeman stated this proposal would be best so the City could avoid the state bid law which requires projects over $50,000.00 to be bid out through public advertisements.

•Authorized the Mayor to seek financing in the amount of $229,039.40 for a new sanitation truck •Awarded a bid for a utility vehicle for the Wastewater Treatment Plant in the amount of $17,335,00 to Dekalb Coop. This will be paid with grant money.

•Approved the purchase of new computer for the Tom Bevill Enrichment Center up to $1,000.00 The next regular Council Meeting will be February 5, 2018.

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Smith started the program and asked for donations of warm coats to be distributed to kids and adults in need.

"I can't bare the thought of kids freezing in this weather," said Smith.

"America is the greatest nation on Earth, but people don't realize there is still poverty here. We see it all too often on calls."

The Rainsville Police Department will give a coat to any child in need, any time of day. They only ask it be

limited to one coat per person in need.

"If they need a coat at 3 am, come by and we'll call an officer," said Smith. "I'm not sure what all sizes we have, but I've seen everything from Infants to 3x."

While most of the coats are second hand, many people from the community even purchased new coats to donate. Mt. Olive Baptist Church in Sylvania even donated 25, $20 Walmart gift cards to be used for kid's

coats. Many other schools, churches, and organizations from all over pitched in.

"It's not what we did; it's what God did," said Smith.

"Our coat drive touched people's hearts, and this is what happened," said Smith, as he looked at the enormous amount of coats.

"I can't say thank you enough to these people," said Smith. "God will honor them for their giving."

How you can spot the signs of Human Trafficking

The Alabama Human Trafficking Task Force declared Thursday (January 11, 2018) “Alabama Human Trafficking Awareness Day” and released facts and “Red Flags” to help law enforcement and the public spot victims of this terrible criminal industry. (EndItAlabama.org)

By Tyler Pruett Managing Editor tyler@southerntorch.com

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — The Alabama Human Trafficking Task Force is sponsoring, “Alabama Human Trafficking Awareness Day” today (January 11, 2018). The statewide task force released a fact sheet about this modern form of slavery yesterday, as well as a list of “red flags” to help the public and law enforcement spot the victims.

According to the task force, human trafficking is the second largest criminal industry in the world, and it’s estimated that 27 million people live in slavery in the world today; the most in human history. The average age of a human trafficking victim is 12 years old.

Although 79 percent of victims are female, the number of males exploited is rapidly rising.

I-20, I-85, I-10, and I-65, all interstates that pass through Alabama, are considered major corridors for human trafficking. We also live in close proximity to six human trafficking hotspots: Nashville, Memphis, Chattanooga, Knoxville, Atlanta, and Birmingham.

While I-59 passes through DeKalb County and nearby Etowah County, it was not mentioned specifically, however, Pat McCay, Secretary of the Task Force said that, “we have not done the research that’s not necessary yet to put it on our media. Any interstate, truly is a corridor.” “(The interstates) allow these bad people to come out of cities to our towns quickly, they can come in, and set up their internet presence before they get there, and if they see that police or the community is watching them, or nobody is buying, they can get out of

town fast,” said McCay. The information provided from the task force describes how traffickers operate. Trafficking victims are usually displaced, homeless, physically or sexually abused victims, disabled individuals, LGBTQ, or dependent children, but anyone can be a victim. The victims are usually “trafficked” by force, fraud, or coercion.

The “pimps” usually travel to different locations to sell out the victims for sex.

Social media and websites such as Backpage.com, Craigslist, Instagram, Snapchat, and Twitter are used to find potential “buyers” for sex.

Some of the strongest signs of a human trafficking victim are: the victim seems controlled by another person, the child exhibits signs of abuse (injuries, bruises), has a heightened sense of fear or distrust, child seems fearful anxious, depressed, submissive, child is a chronic runaway or homeless, the child has significant gaps in schooling, the child is with an older, “boyfriend,” or has a tattoo or brand.

The task force has conducted 82 presentations on the subject so far, and is hosting an awareness event in Huntsville on January 20th and in Jackson County on January 23rd.

Nick Welden, President of the DeKalb County Chiefs of Police Association, has been in touch with McCay to pass the crucial training along to law enforcement here in DeKalb.

“We want to bring this training to DeKalb to update and educate our officers,” Valley Head Police Chief Nick Welden said. “As president of the association, I believe it’s valuable information and much needed in our area due to a major interstate passing through. We are scheduling

training dates so all departments will have the opportunity to learn more on this crime.”

“We feel like the smaller towns don’t get the opportunities to train their officers as much,” explained McCay. “Some do, some don’t; it just depends on city budgets. We don’t charge anything. We come over and do it free of charge. We want to offer whatever we can so they know what to look for.”

“They could do a routine traffic stop. It could be a broken tail light, an expired tag, etc. And if they don’t know what to look for within the inside of the car, they could let traffickers just go on by with a warning ticket, or a citation, and it could make all the difference if they know what to look for,” she said.

The Alabama Human Trafficking Task Force is asking City Mayors in Huntsville, Madison, Tuscaloosa, Montgomery, Birmingham, Dothan, Leeds, Odenville, Cullman, Cullman County, Mobile, and others to sign Proclamations during the month of January in observance of National Human Trafficking Awareness Month.

In addition, Governor Ivey will be signing a statewide Proclamation in observance of National Human Trafficking Awareness Month.

The Alabama Human Trafficking Task Force was established by House Joint Resolution 270 sponsored by Representative Jack Williams (R – Vestavia Hills) which passed the Alabama legislature in March 2014.

The resolution was signed in April 2014 making the Alabama Human Trafficking Task Force a reality. The Task Force meets once each quarter at the Alabama State House.

Meetings are open to the public.

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FRIDAY–JANUARY 19, 2018

3

COMMUNITY

Deadline Approaching for FSA Parents of Nora Rose to Livestock Disaster Program speak at Sanctity of Life

The deadline for local livestock producers to apply for the Livestock Forage Disaster Program is quickly approaching. (File Photo)

By Staff Reports RAINSVILLE, Ala. — Livestock producers are reminded that the deadline for the Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP) is quickly approaching.

The deadline to apply for LFP benefits for 2017 grazing losses is Jan. 30, 2018. Eligible livestock producers must complete a CCC-853 and submit the required supporting documentation by the deadline.

LFP provides

compensation to eligible livestock producers who suffer grazing losses for covered livestock due to drought on privately owned or cash leased land or fire on federally

managed land.

For more information, contact the DeKalb County FSA office at (256)638-2181, Ext. 2.

Information can also be obtained online at disaster.fsa. usda.gov.

Square bale hay Square bale hay for $4 per bale To purchase, call:

(256) 638-6428 • (256) 601-1856

UPCOMING EVENTS

Every Tuesday, Parents of Addicted Love 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 meeting, however, for insurance reasons, no one under the age of 18 may attend and child care will not be provided. For more information, go to 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 Holkem at 256-605-1776. We would love to have you!

January 19, Fort Payne Depot Museum Art Contest The Fort Payne Depot Museum presents a FREE art contest for DeKalb County students 1st to 12th grade. Create an original art depiction of the Fort Payne Depot Museum. Art must be freehand, i.e. paints, pencils, charcoal, ink, colored pencils,

markers, crayons, etc. (no photographs or graphic designs) on paper, canvas, etc.

The winning selections will be auctioned off at a fundraising event to raise money for the current remodeling efforts.

Turn your art into your school

by January 19 to be eligible.

Good luck!

February 2 and 3. The event is free. A meal will be provided on Friday night from 5-6:30pm.

The Friday sessions begins at 6:30pm and the Saturday morning sessions will begin at 8am. Door prizes will be awarded.

January 27, Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out - Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out will be at the DeKalb Theatre on January 27 from 7pm to 9pm!

For tickets, there are a few pick-up locations (in Fort Payne): Bruce’s Foodland, Roger’s Pawn, BBQ Place and DeKalb Theatre. The event is presented by Big Wills Arts Council and tickets are $20 in advance, $23 night of the show!

February 1, Learn to Square Dance - You're invited to four free lessons in February 2018 (free weeks are Feb. 1, 8, 15, 22)! Lessons will be held at the Tom Bevill Enrichment Center on Thursdays from 6:30pm to 9pm.

February 2-3, Sylvania Baptist Church Simulcast of Johnny Hunt - Sylvania Baptist Church will be hosting a simulcast of Johnny Hunt's Men's Conference Simulcast on

THE FISHERMEN SOUTHERN GOSPEL QUARTET

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

Main Street E, Rainsville AL, 35986. POSTMASTER:

RAINSVILLE, Ala. — “Human beings are created by God in His image.

Therefore every person, from conception to natural death, possesses inherent dignity and immeasurable worth---including preborn children, elderly individuals, those with special needs and others marginalized by society.” - This explanation of the sanctity of all human life is provided by, "Focus on the Family."

DeKalb County will have an opportunity to learn more about how this concept is applied when Katie and Jacob Malone speak at the Sanctity of Human Life worship service on Sunday, January 21, at 6:00 pm

The gathering will be at Ruhama Baptist Church located on Lookout Mountain.

The Malones are parents of 15-month-old Nora Rose, a precious red-headed toddler born with Trisomy 13. They will share the challenges and conquests they have experienced raising their daughter with serious physical issues. Katie Malone is a speech therapist at Go Play Therapy Center in Fort Payne, and Jacob Malone is the pastor of Lathamville Baptist Church near Crossville and also works at Polymer Industries in Henagar.

There will be an offering taken with proceeds going to support the work of the Women’s Care Center of Sav-A-Life, located in

February 8-10, 12 & 15-17, DeKalb County Children's Advocacy Center Dinner & Play - The Children's Advocacy Center presents their annual dinner theatre. "Virgil Wins the Lottery" will be performed at the First United Methodist Church on February 8-10, 12, and 15-17 at 6pm every night.

Ticket prices vary and are by reservation only. For more information, call (256) 996-9700.

February 15, Made In DeKalb - The annual Made In DeKalb will be held on February 15 from 8:30am until 3pm.

Business representatives will have the opportunity to network with peers, educators, the Alabama Department of Commerce, and many more organizations! Students (9th & 12th) from DeKalb County and Fort Payne Schools will have the opportunity to learn about local business career options and about DeKalb's many great manufacturers!

February 17, 2018 Meet the Hornets Dinner Auction - The Ider Hornets will be hosting a dinner auction with proceeds going to help pay for new equipment, field prep supplies, uniforms and day items needed to run a successful softball and baseball program.

Eloise Smith, Business Manager

published each Friday by Southern Torch, Inc. 203

By Staff Reports

downtown Fort Payne. This non-profit agency offers free and confidential services in a loving environment to women, men, and families facing an unplanned pregnancy.

The site also operates a clothes closet for families in need of maternity and baby items. Prenatal, parenting, and post-abortion classes for women and men are taught at the center. This organization’s ultimate purpose is to affirm all life---both physically and spiritually---by sharing the love and truth of Jesus in word and deed.

For more information, contact the office at Women’s Care Center, 107 4th St. SW, Fort Payne, call (256)845-0838 or email savelife@bellsouth. net.

February 3, Sylvania Soccer Bingo Night - The Sylvania High School Soccer team will be hosting a Bingo Night on February 3. Tickets are $20, which includes a meal catered by Limon’s Restaurant and one bingo card. Extra cards are available for purchase.

Staff: Southern Torch (USPS Periodicals #19790) is

Local parents Jacob and Katie Malone with their 15-month-old daughter, Nora Rose. Nora was born with Trisomy 13, and Jacob and Katie will be sharing their experiences with the Sanctity of Human Life Worship Service on Sunday, January 21st. (Contributed Photos)

Tyler Pruett, Managing Editor Marla Jones, Sports Editor

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4

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FRIDAY–JANUARY 19, 2018

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DEATH NOTICES Wiseman officiating. Burial will follow in Pinehaven Memorial Gardens.

CORNER STONE

KERBY

Clarice Jean Atchley - 77 of Bryant, passed away on January 12, 2018 at her residence. The family will receive friends from 11am until 10pm on Saturday, January 13 and from 11am until service time on Sunday, January 14 at Higdon Holiness Church.

Funeral services are set for Monday, January 15 at the church at 2pm ET with Bro. Edwin Spurgeon and Bro. Oron Whitley officiating. Burial will follow in Oak Lawn Memorial Park.

Mary Jane Medlock - 83 of Pisgah, passed away on January 15, 2018 at her residence. The family will receive friends on Wednesday, January 16 from 5pm to 8pm and Thursday, January 17 from 11am until 1pm. Funeral services are set for Thursday, January 18 at 1pm at Kerby Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Shirley Byrum officiating. Burial will follow in Green Haven Memorial Gardens.

Mary Clyde Eason - 76 of Flat Rock, passed away on January 15, 2018 at Memorial Hospital. The family will receive friends from 4pm to 8pm on Thursday, January 18 at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel and from 10am until service time on Friday, January 19 at Bethlehem Baptist Church.

Funeral services are set for Friday, January 19 at 1pm CT at the church with Bro. Robert Elliott and Bro. Charles Smith officiating. Burial will follow in the Overlook Cemetery.

Flora Carlyle Ashworth 94 of Rainsville, passed away on January 12, 2018 at Crowne Health Care. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 17 from 11am to 1pm at the funeral home. Funeral services are set for Wednesday, January 17 at 1pm at Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Kevin McCreless officiating. Burial will follow in Trinity Cemetery.

CROSSVILLE Sherry Kay Massey - 68 of Crossville, passed away on January 13, 2018 at Marshall Medical Center. Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 18 from 10am until 1:30pm at the funeral home. Funeral services are set for 2pm on Thursday, January 18 at New Home Baptist Church with Bro. Wayne Tarvin and Bro. Roger White officiating. Burial will follow in the adjoining cemetery.

Charles LaDue Underwood - 77 of Crossville, passed away on January 14, 2018 at Crossville Healthcare Center. A memorial service will be held at 11am on Wednesday, January 17 at the funeral home with Bro. Phillip Fowler officiating. Cremation will follow the service.

RAINSVILLE

Mary Lucille Baugh - 99 of Henagar, passed away on January 14, 2018 at Crowne Health Care. A graveside service will be held on Thursday, January 18 at 1pm at Pinehaven Memorial Gardens with Pastor Christopher

Joy Patton - 95 of Rainsville, passed away on January 15, 2018 at Crossville Health & Rehab. Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 18 from 11am until 2pm at Broadway’s Faith Chapel.

Funeral services are set for 2pm on Thursday, January 18 at the church with Rev. Pat McFadden officiating. Burial will follow in Mountain View Memory Gardens.

James E. Bailey - 86 of Rainsville, passed away on January 16, 2018 at his residence. Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 18 from 10am to noon. Funeral services are set for Thursday, January 18 at noon at Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Larry Kirby and Bro. Bob Strickland officiating. Burial will follow in Rainsville Memorial Park.

WT WILSON Gladys L. Knight - 95 of Fort Payne, passed away on January 12, 2018. The family will receive friends from 5pm to 8pm on Sunday, January 14 at the funeral home. Funeral services are set for noon on

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Monday, January 15 at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel. Burial will follow in Walnut Grove Cemetery.

Ruby Ann Bender - 87 of Pisgah, passed away on January 14, 2018. The family will receive friends from 5pm to 8pm on Monday, January 15 at the funeral home. Funeral services are set for 11am on Tuesday, January 16 at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel with Rev. James Grindstaff officiating. Burial will follow in Pleasant View Cemetery.

Rita Newsome - 65 of Section, passed away on January 14, 2018. The family will receive friends from 4pm to 8pm on Thursday, January 18 at the funeral home. Funeral

services are set for 3pm on Friday, January 19 at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel with Rev. Shannon Brewster and Bro. Errol McCaddle officiating.

Burial will follow in Kirk Memorial Gardens.

Alice Duncan - 87 of Fort Payne, passed away on January 15, 2018. The family will receive friends from 5pm to 8pm on Thursday, January 18 and from 10am until the time of service on Friday, January 19 at the funeral home. Funeral services are set for 1pm on Friday, January 19 at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel with Bro. Kent Wilborn and Bro. David McCarrell officiating. Burial will follow in Walker’s Chapel Cemetery.

WILSON Frank S. Sawicki - 69 of Fort Payne, passed away on January 12, 2018 at DeKalb Regional Medical Center. A memorial service will be announced at a later date.

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FRIDAY–JANUARY 19, 2018

5

FAITH

A Moment with Megan: He Sits with Me

By Megan Blansit ST Faith Columnist Do you desire alone time, but your crazy schedule doesn’t allow it? Recently, after a busy day, I took a trip to the coffee shop to hopefully clear my mind.

Looking back at that day, my mind was a frazzled mess. I was trying to plan things for 2018, set goals, read, etc.

I need to set the scene for a second. I walked into what seemed to be a busy hour for the coffee shop but within minutes it cleared out.

I chose a comfy chair in front of the gas fireplace and began trying to figure out “my life.” Don't get me wrong, my life is great, but I had a ton of questions that I was wanting to nail down an answer to. Now, remember at the beginning of this I said I wanted to have some alone time to clear my mind? Well, low and behold, after minutes of being at the

coffee sop, a random man came and sat on the sofa next to my chair. We were literally three or four feet away from each other.

If I am honest, I was frustrated. Out of ALL the empty booths and other couches, this man chose the one beside me?! I wanted to get up and move seats but decided I wouldn’t be dramatic like that. May I add, I have never seen this man before, nor did we ever make eye contact or say hello, and he sat there a good 30 minutes. I tried to focus on the book I was reading but was distracted by this stranger and was honestly fighting anxiety about the situation.

I decided to put that book down and read another one that I brought. This was a Bible study book and the day I read talked about looking for lovely moments and referenced Psalm 34:8. It says, “Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the

one who takes refuge in him.”

I began to think of the lovely moments that I had missed due to not “looking” or “seeing” as the verse says. I decided to grab my journal and get some thoughts out on paper.

As I grabbed my journal, I happened to glance up at the stranger. I immediately got chills. Call me crazy, but the Holy Spirit began to speak to me about this situation. He showed me the stranger represents God. He is always close, but won’t intrude on me. He waits to be invited into conversation… and ultimately my life.

I was sitting in my chair with so many questions that night. God showed me in a matter of seconds that it is pointless to be confused and stressed out. He has all the answers but is waiting for me to ask him for help. I could hear God saying, “Megan, I’m here. I’m always present with you. Ask ME these questions.

Quit trying to figure

everything out on your own.”

Is anyone else guilty of this? I’m not sure why I try to figure out all the answers when my Heavenly Father already has them. Then I began to ask myself, “How many questions have been left unanswered because I failed to pray and seek God’s face?”

After I soaked in this insight from the Holy Spirit and journaled about it, so that I wouldn’t forget this powerful moment, the stranger literally walked out of the coffee shop. When I placed my pen down, the man got up. We never spoke or made eye contact. Did God lead him to sit beside me to show me this? It still blows my mind that out of all the empty chairs, the man chose to sit near me. Likewise, it blows my mind that out of all my sin and short comings, the Lord still chooses to have a relationship and “sit with me,” daily.

Friend, God is near.

Whatever you are going through, I pray you feel his presence today. He is waiting for you to speak to Him.

Lastly, thank you, Father, for your divine appointments and always choosing to sit with me.

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6

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FRIDAY–JANUARY 19, 2018

POLITICS Inside the Statehouse DeKalb Democratic

Contributed by Steve Flowers AL Political Columnist MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Awhile back, during Dr. Robert Bentley’s tenure as governor, I wrote a column entitled, “They May as Well Move the Capitol to Tuscaloosa.” Never before in Alabama history has a city had a sitting governor and the state’s senior U.S. Senator hail from that particular place. Even with the departure of Bentley as governor, the Druid City has an inordinate amount of presence in the state’s political sphere of influence.

Senator Richard Shelby is in his 32nd year as our U.S. Senator. With that kind of seniority, comes immense power in Washington. Shelby is Chairman of the Senate Rules Committee and is easily one of the three most powerful U.S. Senators.

Secretary of State, John Merrill, is from Tuscaloosa. He served in the Legislature prior to winning statewide office.

Scott Donaldson serves on the State Court of Appeals. He was a Circuit Judge in Tuscaloosa prior to his move to the state court.

Judge John England currently sits on the Bench as a Tuscaloosa Circuit Judge. He has previously served on the State Supreme Court. He is one of the most respected men in the state. Judge England’s son,

candidates qualify

Chris England, has represented Tuscaloosa in the House of Representatives very effectively for 11-years. Chris is not only a stellar legislator; he is a practicing lawyer and an expert on Alabama football, which he grew up watching.

Tuscaloosa County Probate Judge Hardy McCollum has been in his office for over 41 years. He is nearing the end of an unprecedented seventh six-year term. That means that Hardy was first elected in 1976.

Over the years, he has generally been considered the most popular political figure in Tuscaloosa County.

State senator, Gerald Allen, has been representing his native Tuscaloosa County in the state Legislature for 24-years. He served 16-years in the State House prior to his election to the State Senate eight years ago in 2010. He is considered one of the most conservative members of the State Senate.

Some folks believe that this time next year, Tuscaloosa may regain the Governor’s office. Their very popular, 45-year old mayor, Walt Maddox, will likely be the Democratic standard-bearer in the 2018 Governor’s race.

Young Mr. Maddox is very popular in his hometown. He has been the historic city’s 36th mayor since 2005, which means he was first elected at the ripe old age of 32.

Although not Tuscaloosa’s, there are some influential

powers that live nearby and represent them in the Halls of Congress and the State Senate.

Congressman Robert Aderholt from Haleyville represents Tuscaloosa as well as outstanding State Senators Greg Reed of Jasper and Bobby Singleton of Greensboro.

Lastly but certainly not least, Tuscaloosa lays claim to the most popular and consensus brightest rising star in the Alabama Legislature.

State Representative Bill Poole is a crown jewel that Tuscaloosa can be very proud to call their own.

Bill Poole is a lawyer by profession. His utmost priority is his devotion to his wife, Nicole, and his three children, Sally, William, and Whitman.

The Poole’s are active members of the First Methodist Church of Tuscaloosa. Bill earned his B.S. and Law degrees from the University of Alabama and began his law practice in Tuscaloosa, in 2004. This Republican District 63 encompasses primarily the City and suburbs of Tuscaloosa. Dr. Bentley was the Representative from this District prior to Poole. Tim Parker represented this district prior to Bentley.

Poole came to the House with a large group of Republicans in 2010. He immediately became a leader of that group. The entire Legislature quickly recognized his potential. By the end of his first year in 2011, it was evident that Poole was clearly the star of that 34-member class. When you asked every veteran observer of Goat Hill about the class, the first name on the list was Bill Poole. He is liked and respected by members on both sides of the aisle.

In only his second term, he became Chairman of the Ways and Means Education Budget Committee. When Mike Hubbard was removed as Speaker, it was a foregone conclusion that Poole was going to be Speaker. He turned down the post because he wanted to be able to spend time with his young family.

At 38 the sky’s the limit for Poole. However, folks in Tuscaloosa hope he stays put.

For a city that is home to the University of Alabama, having the Chairman of the Education Budget Committee is a pretty good coup.

Tuscaloosa was once the Capitol. Some would say essentially it is again. In fact preliminary census estimations project that Tuscaloosa will exceed Montgomery in population by 2030.

See you next week.

Incumbent Democrats DeWitt Jackson (County Commission, District 4) and Pam Simpson (DeKalb County Circuit Clerk) submit their qualifying paperwork.

Susan Scott Hayes submitted her paperwork to challenge incumbent Republican Ronnie Osborn for Probate Judge. Jackson, Simpson, and Hayes are pictured with DeKalb County Democratic Party Chairman Ben Johnson. (Tyler Pruett | Southern Torch)

By Tyler Pruett Managing Editor tyler@southerntorch.com

FORT PAYNE, Ala. — Last Saturday, (January 13, 2018) DeKalb County Democrats met with County Party Chairman Ben Johnson to begin the 2018 Campaign season.

Several candidates qualified, and it was announced that Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox (Democratic Candidate for Governor in 2018) will be speaking at the Fyffe Community Center (where Doug Jones spoke in November) on February 13th.

(More on this story later) For local Democrats, qualifying was opened yesterday and will continue until February 9.

At the meeting, incumbent Circuit Clerk Pam Bailey Simpson submitted her paperwork with Johnson to run for re-election in 2018.

Simpson will also be going to Montgomery to submit her qualification paperwork with the Alabama Democratic Party to finish the process.

Incumbent District 4 County Commissioner DeWitt

Jackson submitted his paperwork to run for re-election and Fort Payne Attorney Susan Scott Hayes submitted her paperwork to run against incumbent Republican Probate Judge Ronnie Osborn.

At the meeting, Jackson stood up first: “I’m DeWitt Jackson, and I’m asking for your blessing to be your nominee to run for election again this fall for County Commissioner, District 4.”

After the meeting, Jackson said, “I’d like to thank all the people of DeKalb County for allowing me to serve. It’s been an honor. I hope that my actions have proved that I do care about the people I serve.”

Next, Simpson stood up and introduced herself.

“I’m Pam Simpson, I am your Circuit Clerk, and I’m going to be running again as a Democrat on the ticket for Circuit Clerk. I have a lot of experience. I’ve been in that office for over 40 years,” said Simpson.

“I think with the slate of candidates on the other side… that the people in the county needs somebody who knows what’s going on in that office,

and that’s my reason for running. Plus I love to serve. I consider myself a public servant. I would like for you all to consider me, for a candidate on the ticket,” concluded Simpson.

Hayes then stood up and handed in her paperwork to run for Probate Judge: “Hello, my name is Susan Scott Hayes.

I’m a local attorney here in Fort Payne. Born and raised here Fort Payne… And I would like to be a candidate for Probate Judge.”

“My dad is Mac Scott. My grandfather, Charlie Scott was the Mayor in Fort Payne back in 1915. So we’ve been here a long time and we have a lot of history here,” said Hayes.

All three candidates were approved by the committee after addressing the group.

Like the local Republicans, the Democrats will have until February 9th to submit the qualifying paperwork.

Other potential candidates for office were discussed outside of the meeting, so we may have some surprises in the coming weeks.

We’ll update when we confirm more qualify.

Circuit Judge, page 1 and asked each the question, “Now that you’ve submitted your paperwork to qualify to appear on the Republican Ballot in 2018, what are your plans moving forward?”

After submitting his paperwork at state Republican Party Headquarters in Birmingham, Scott Lloyd said, “I’ve been working hard the past six months to meet as many people across DeKalb and Cherokees counties as I can.”

“I’ve just tried to introduce myself to everyone and let them know about my 21 years of experience as a prosecutor with the District Attorney’s office prosecuting felony cases and getting criminal off the streets,” said Lloyd.

“Going forward, I want to keep working to get out my message of being the most experienced, best qualified candidate for the position of Circuit Judge,” he said.

“Circuit judges hear different types of cases than municipal judges. Circuit judges hear felony cases, the same type of felony cases that I have been prosecuting for the past 21 years in the DA’s office,” said Lloyd.

“I’m a conservative. I believe that judges should apply the law as it is written and not legislate from the bench,” Lloyd explained. “These days, we have too many judges that just say the law means whatever they want it to mean. I have a conservative judicial philosophy. I believe that judges should strictly interpret the law as written, and leave the legislating to legislators.”

“I’m a career prosecutor, not a politician,” he continued.

“This is my first time to ever run for office, but I’ve really enjoyed the chance to meet so many good folks. Having grown up in Rainsville and lived in Cherokee County for the past 20 years, I consider both counties home.”

“With the people’s support and the Lord’s wisdom, I hope to serve our two counties as circuit judge,” concluded Lloyd.

Fort Payne native Andrew Hairston submitted paperwork at DeKalb County GOP headquarters in Fort Payne on Monday.

“I think people are tired of politics,” explained Hairston.

“You can look out at the world around us, and this is what politics has given you. Are you safer now than you were 20 or 30 years ago? Are there less drugs on the street now than there were 20 or 30 years ago?

Are our kids safer in the court system and the job that people are doing to protect our kids?”

“And I think politics has gotten us to the point that we are all frustrated and discouraged. My candidacy is about getting back to what the law means, and what our founding fathers meant by the law, and just be fair to people; be honest to them,” he explained.

“Judges shouldn’t sit in an ivory tower far away and not be in our communities. They ought to right down there with everybody in their communities. And the number one issue we are going to address is the drug issue in our communities,” he said.

“Employers are having a tough time hiring people because they can’t get anyone to test negative for drugs. We

have victims that are getting their belongings stolen, because people are trying to get money for their next drugs,” said Hairston.

“My motto is if law enforcement do their job, then I as a judge am going to do my job. We can help people. We need to be tough and administer justice on those who bring drugs into our communities. People that have an addiction problem, we need to get them help, and they have the choice of jail or to get help,” stated Hairston.

“There is a lot of faith-based initiatives out there that will help people with drug problems, but we’ve got to have judges that will encourage those faith based programs to become part of the court system, and to come in, and open up new opportunities and doors for those that need help,” concluded Hairston.

Fort Payne Attorney Jeff McCurdy is a native of Henagar, and qualified earlier today (January 12, 2018) at state Republican Party Headquarters in Birmingham.

“We’re just going to continue what we are doing, getting out seeing people, and trying to get our message out to the people,” said McCurdy.

“We feel like we’ve had a positive response up at this point. We are just going to keep moving forward,” he said.

“We have three distinct candidates, and each one of us has a different message, and we are just going to try and push our message and hopefully it will resonate with the voters,” concluded McCurdy.

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FRIDAY–JANUARY 19, 2018

7

DeKalb County Basketball Tournament Due to inclement weather, the DeKalb County Basketball Tournament faced cancellations of Tuesday night's games.

Below is the revised schedule for the remainder of the tournament!

8

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FRIDAY–JANUARY 19, 2018

DeKalb County Basketball Tournament

(Amy Thrash | Southern Torch)

(Marla Jones| Southern Torch)

Fyffe Lady Red Devils defeated the Valley Head Lady Tigers, 92-28, on the first night of the DeKalb County Basketball Tournament. The Lady Devils will advance to take on the winner of the Collinsville vs Ider game on Friday, January 19, 2018 at 6:30pm at the Dekalb County Schools Coliseum.

The Fyffe Red Devils defeated the Ider Hornets, 68-54, on the first night of the DeKalb County Basketball Tournament. The Red Devils will move on to take on the winner of the Collinsville vs Crossville game on Saturday, January 20, 2018 at 6pm at the DeKalb County Schools Coliseum.

(Marla Jones| Southern Torch)

(Marla Jones| Southern Torch) The Plainview Bears defeated the Valley Head Tigers, 91-29, on the first night of the DeKalb County Basketball Tournament. The Bears will play on Saturday, January 20, 2018 at 7:30pm in the DeKalb County Schools Coliseum against the winner of the Geraldine vs Sylvania game.

The Lady Bears defeated the Crossville Lady Lions on the first night of the DeKalb County Basketball Tournament. The Lady Bears will face the winner of the Sylvania vs Geraldine game on Friday, January 19, 2018 at 8pm in the DeKalb County Schools Coliseum.

Stay tuned for next week's edition of The Southern Torch for complete coverage of the remainder of the DeKalb County Tournament! We would like to wish ALL teams the best of luck!

Sylvania & Ider Raising funds for Sports The Sylvania Rams will host a Bingo night on February 3, 2018. Tickets are $20 each, which includes a catered meal by Limon's Restaurant. Extra bingo cards will be available for purchase.

The Ider Hornets will be hosting a dinner auction with proceeds going to help pay for new equipment, field prep supplies, uniforms and day items needed to run a successful softball and baseball program.

Hunter of the Week This week's Southern Torch Hunter of the Week is Maddie Jackson, 13, who recently bagged these mallards and woodies on a recent duck hunt.

Submit your photos to marla@ southerntorch.com for a chance to be our next Hunter of the Week!

Whitten Breaks School Record Libby Whitten, former Fyffe High School basketball standout and 2017 graduate, is making a name for herself in college.

Whitten, who was awarded a basketball scholarship to Judson, recently broke the Judson school record of (8) three-pointers scored during a game, scoring eleven.

Whitten is adjusting nicely to college, making the Dean's List for her first quarter. Libby is making DeKalb County proud and Southern Torch wishes her the best!

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FRIDAY–JANUARY 19, 2018

9

DeKalb County Junior Basketball Champs The Best of the Best

9th Grade Boys - PLAINVIEW!

(From L to R): Ethan Hope, Devin Wooten, Arturo Andrade, J.J. Gilbert, Jacob Henderson, Brody Parker, Jathan Underwood, Coach Brett Benefield

8th Grade Boys - SYLVANIA!

(Bottom, L to R): Lane Sansom, Ryan Bullock, Josh Bryant, Tucker Black, and Sawyer Hughes (Top, L to R): Coach Tim, Coach Dalton, Andrew Gibson, Brody Smith, Brett Sims, Isaiah Wilbanks, and Coach Jacobs

8th Grade Girls - FYFFE!

(Bottom, L to R): Emily Webb, Madison Long, Alyssa Webb, Emma Twilley, Lauren Webb.

(Top, L to R): Emily Anderson, Irada Salvador, Livia Cowart, Kirby Coots.

7th Grade Boys - PLAINVIEW!

(Kneeling): Ian Martin, Joseph Hutcheson, Brody Bryant, Dylan Haymon, Eil Butts, Dylan McCullough, Levi Brown. (Standing): Ben Chandler, Sawyer Frayley, Joshua Sandlin, Luke Smith, Nathan Sabias, Harrison Huber, Caleb Clines, Andrew Hall, Coach Cody Coots

10

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FRIDAY–JANUARY 19, 2018

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