The Southern Torch — Vol. 4, Issue 39

Bobby Ledbetter’s

SCORE BIG THIS SEASON WITH TWIN CITY 1411 Glenn Blvd SW, Fort Payne, AL 35967

THE SOUTHERN TORCH / FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2018 / VOL. 4, NO. 39 / $1.00

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Sheriff's Race Heats Up on Facebook

FULL COVERAGE

By Marla Jones Reporter marla@southerntorch.com

Waylon Elliot & Payton Anderson See Full Story in Sports!

DEKALB COUNTY, Ala. — Many people are commenting on a recent video with audio posted on Facebook regarding the DeKalb County Sheriff’s

Community Comes Together for Bradford

By Marla Jones Reporter marla@southerntorch.com

FORT PAYNE, Ala. — On Saturday, the Fort

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race. The audio is a segment of a conversation between a Sheriff office supervisor (presumably Assistant Chief Deputy Stanley Hollingsworth) and a Sheriff office deputy who has been identified as Terry Wadsworth. The conversation surrounds

the recent heated Dekalb County Republican Sheriff primary race between Nick Welden (former Valley Head police chief) and Michael Edmondson (current Chief Deputy Sheriff). Welden defeated Edmondson for the DeKalb County Sheriff Republican

check for $3,200, mostly from Boom Days sales of their products.

FirstOn team member Dylan Kate Coffey described FirstOn as “a brand that is designed specifically for the incredible men and women who are first on the scene when emergencies occur, including brave individuals working for our fire departments, our police, military and EMS professionals.� “Our goal as a company is to give back to those first responders who keep us safe on a daily basis,� Coffey continued.

FirstOn founder Chuck Coffey presented the check to Bradford at the event.

If you would like to help Deputy Bradford, an account at Bank of Dade has been opened for those who wish to donate. You may also donate online at paypal. me.tommybradfordfamily.

>> SHERIFF, P2

Enforcement Officer Fort Payne Man violates No Burn Order Captured

Steven Richard Mulkey, originally of Fort Payne, was identified as a person of interest. (Middle River Regional Jail)

The Fort Payne Police Department and Wills Town Rats raised more than $12,000 for Bradford, who lost his leg in an accident while on call on August 7. (Submitted Photo)

Payne Police Department, in association with the Wills Town Rats, held a bike night benefit for Dade County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Major Tommy Bradford.

During a police chase on August 7, Bradford lost his left leg after responding to a call related to the chase that had come into Dade County from Fort Payne. The suspect, Laura Leeann Wooten, struck Bradford at a high rate of speed. He was taken to the hospital, where he later lost his leg.

The Fort Payne Police Department reported that more than $12,000 was raised on behalf of Bradford on Saturday through donations at the event, the police department, and at Fort Payne City Hall.

In addition to the money raised by the benefit, FirstOn, a local hosiery, also presented a

nomination on June 5, 2018. During the conversation, the supervisor explained to Wadsworth that because of the lack of support that he and his wife showed for

By Staff Reports

(SUBMITTED PHOTO)

By Marla Jones Reporter marla@southerntorch.com

RAINSVILLE, Ala. — At the September 3 meeting of the Rainsville City Council, Fire Chief Willimac Wright stated

that DeKalb County is under a no burn order through the end of the month of October.

According to the Alabama Department of

>> NO BURN, P2

#TORCHSPORTS

FOLLOW THE LEADER and watch Sports Editor Marla Jones and Reporter Chris Capps in our new TorchSports online show!

Topics will include: complete breakdowns of the week's games, discussion with coaches, and much more! Check it out on our Facebook page each week sponsored by DeKalb County Sheriff Jimmy Harris!

IRONDALE, Ala. — After the elderly owners of an Irondale motel came up missing, Fort Payne native Steven Richard Mulkey has been arrested by deputy marshals at a hotel in Staunton, Va., more than 500 miles from the motel itself.

The 27-year-old suspect, who has a history of mental illness, was taken into custody on Monday, September 24 at a Staunton motel.

The Irondale motel owners, Ching and Siumei Kao, were noticed missing from the Siesta Motel, which has been closed since January due to code violations. The owners were the only people currently occupying the

>> MOTEL, 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 – SEPTEMBER 28, 2018

MOTEL from Page 1 motel.

The pair was first reported missing by their daughters, but once Irondale police arrived on the scene, the couple was nowhere to be found.

Police Chief Ken Atkinson said the safe was missing from the motel’s office and there was blood in the area. After reviewing surveillance footage which depicted a brash attack in the office, the police identified Mulkey as a person of interest.

After finding Mulkey, who had been working at the Siesta Motel as a maintenance man, he was charged with capital murder of two or more victims with a no-bond issued against him.

The surveillance footage was turned over to the FBI. Mulkey had previous run-ins with the law prior to this incident.

Investigators returned on Monday to the motel to do a second search of each room in the ongoing effort to find the victims.

Southern Torch will update on this developing story as more information becomes available.

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

COMMISSION PASSES BUDGET

The DeKalb County Commission recognized the DeKalb Homemakers at this week's meeting. (Marla Jones | Southern Torch)

By Marla Jones Reporter marla@southerntorch.com

DEKALB COUNTY, Ala. — The DeKalb County Commission held their regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, September 25.

During the meeting, County Administrator Matt Sharp presented the Commission with their official 2018-19 fiscal year budget in the amount of $19,801,908, which includes a 3% cost of living adjustment for all county employees. After praise from all commissioners for the hard work that Sharp and office staff did, the Commission approved their budget.

Commission President

Ricky Harcrow recognized the DeKalb County Homemakers with a resolution.

Joanne Strickland, outgoing President of the Portersville, County and State clubs of the Homemakers, addressed the Commission. She reported that for the second year in a row, DeKalb County had the highest membership of any county in the state of Alabama.

The Homemakers projects this year including judging both county and regional 4-H competitions, volunteering at the fair, Race to Embrace, and Relay for Life, and serving at the Children’s Advocacy Center through work and donations. They’ve also planted trees and had a

Sheriff Warns about Scams

The Sheriff's Office reported that they had already received several reports of these three scams. (DeKalb County Sheriff's Office)

By Staff Reports DEKALB COUNTY, Ala. — According to the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office: The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office wants to warn the citizens of the county about several different scams that are going around. The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office has already received several reports on these scams.

The first scam going on is that you have won a sweepstakes and that you will need to send a money order or another form of money in order for them to send you the money that you have won. They are very persistent on you sending them the money, sometimes to a foreign address.

The second scam is a call stating that they are

with the IRS and that you owe them money and that you need to send a money order. If you receive one of these telephone calls, do not respond and call your local police department or Sheriff’s Office.

The third scam is another telephone call telling you that a family member has been in an accident and is being taken to jail if you do not send them $4,000.

Chief Deputy Michael Edmondson says, “I know some of these calls can be alarming, but you have to realize that the IRS, police departments and Sheriff’s Office never solicits money for any reason.”

“Please protect your personal information and all of your account information and don’t give it to others.”

Contact the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office if you receive a call, have any questions, doubts, have been contacted or any information about this at (256) 845-3801. DO NOT send any money anytime without checking things out first.

library book sale.

Road Department Superintendent Tom Broyles updated the Commission on road work in DeKalb County. Despite heavy rainfall this week, Broyles said that all ongoing road work was on schedule.

Engineer Ben Luther brought before the Commission the following items: • The request to award the annual bids • Approval of the 681

SHERIFF from Page 1 Edmondson during the primary race, he would not be receiving his already promised new patrol car.

Initially, this audio was posted by Ida Wadsworth, the wife of Terry Wadsworth. As of the time of this writing, the video/ audio has already exceeded 500+ shares on Facebook.

Southern Torch reached out to those mentioned in the recorded conversation to get their perspective.

For a full audio recording, please visit our website.

John Baker’s response: Baker stated he was aware of the video and that he wasn't at the Sheriff's office at that time so he doesn't know enough to fully comment. He did question if the employee had went up the ladder, to the Sheriff, if he was unhappy about not getting a car. He had heard that the employee had recorded the conversation without the supervisor’s knowledge. He went on to state that he disagrees with political retribution and if elected Sheriff, will not take any political retribution

NO BURN from Page 1 Environmental Management (ADEM), no vegetative or land-clearing burning is allowed from May 1 to October 31 of each year in the following counties: Baldwin, Mobile, DeKalb, Montgomery, Etowah, Morgan, Jefferson, Shelby, Lawrence, Russell, Madison and Talladega.

The no burn order is in effect to preserve air quality.

On Thursday, Jeff Keener of the Alabama Forestry Commission

Vacation Petition to vacate property owned by Ricky Etherton • Approval of contract labor • Acceptance of the ALDOT Snow and Ice Removal quote The Commission approved all of Luther’s requests.

DeKalb County Revenue Commissioner Tyler Wilks explained a proposal to alter the Tax Property Sale to a Tax Lien Sale. Wilks said that the

new process would prevent struggling homeowners from paying taxes after the loss of their home.

Commissioner DeWitt Jackson brought before the Commission new wording changes to the Boozer Bridge contract between the County and the City of Rainsville. There will be an exchange of property for services rendered. The County will perform the approach work and backfill for Boozer Bridge. If, for some reason, alternate financing isn’t available for the City to build the bridge within six years, the County will purchase the property for $23,000. The Commission approved the motion.

The next meeting of the DeKalb County Commission will be held on Tuesday, October 9 beginning at 10am in the DeKalb County Activities Building.

against anyone who did not support him.

Nick Welden’s response: Stated that this was shocking. He said he doesn't like dirty politics, but hopes that this has opened people's eyes and that he will be praying for all involved. He went on to say that we don't need this this kind of politics in the Sheriff's office. The Sheriff’s job is to serve everyone, whether you are a democrat or a republican.

Michael Edmondson’s response: There are still cars to be given out. If someone would have came to me or the Sheriff about this and not be “Facebook bandits”, we would have told them this. Edmondson said he was still out on annual leave when this occurred and is just getting to the bottom of this matter as of this writing.

Terry and (wife) Ida Wadsworth’s joint response: I have been a dedicated employee for 14 years. For us, this wasn't political at all, this is about principles, morals and integrity. They have bullied people for so long and no one wants to stand up and say anything and take a stance against this... and enough is enough. Terry stated he had spoke directly with Edmondson

about this and thought he was scheduled to receive a new vehicle. Since the election, Wadsworth stated he felt as if he is working in a hostile work environment and that his immediate supervisors will not talk with him.

Wadsworth also went on to state that he has talked with the DeKalb County District Attorney’s Office and they have turned this over the Alabama Attorney General’s Office.

Sheriff Jimmy Harris’ response: Harris stated the he is not personally involved in assigning new vehicles to deputies but rather that would be the Chief Deputy and supervisor’s task. He also stated that he believes there are still some vehicles remaining to be distributed. Harris further stated that the Wadworths had reached out to him directly to let him know that this was not directed at him.

Asst-Chief Deputy Stanley Hollingsworth’s response: Respectfully declined to make any comments.

Southern Torch will continue to follow this story and update as more information becomes available.

received complaints about burning at 1659 Chavies Road in the Fort Payne/ Rainsville area. Keener contacted the property owner, Rainsville Enforcement Officer Richard Gibson. Keener was told by Gibson that he was unaware of a no burn order and would put the fire out. As of Friday afternoon, the fire was still smoldering. The fire was eventually put out over the weekend.

The Forestry Commission lacks the authority to enforce the ADEM no burn order, however, it is unclear whether ADEM will pursue any enforcement actions.

ADEM could not be reached for comment.

Southern Torch reached out to Gibson regarding his awareness of the no burn order and the status of the fire. Gibson stated that he had no comment.

Councilman Ricky Byrum told Southern Torch on Thursday that he was aware of the fire, however, it was his belief that the fire had been put out.

Southern Torch will update this story as more information becomes available.

FRIDAY – SEPTEMBER 28, 2018

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

COMMUNITY

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Submit your community events to: zach@southerntorch.com

CATCH OF THE WEEK The Southern Torch

Catch of the Week is Johnnie Hughes, age 77!

Johnnie caught this monster while fishing at a private pond with his son.

To be the next Southern Torch Catch of the Week, submit your photos to marla@ southerntorch.com!

At the benefit ride for Dade County Deputy Major Tommy Bradford, FirstOn founder Chuck Coffey presented Bradford with a check for $3,200 from proceeds of his Boom Days sales. (Submitted Photo)

UPCOMING EVENTS

Sex Abuser Arrested

By Staff Reports FORT PAYNE, Ala. — Chief Randy Bynum stated on September 25, Gary Houston Day, age 65 of Fort Payne, was arrested on three counts of Sexual Abuse of a Child Less than 12 years old. This arrest results from a report taken on September 3rd about the alleged abuse acts.

Investigator Nick Brown and other investigators worked hard to bring this case to where charges could be filed.

The investigation continues with possibly more charges pending, his bond was set at $60,000 for each charge for a total of $180.000.

Every Wednesday, 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 Avenue 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.

The Month of September, DeKalb Library Yard Sale - The Rainsville Public Library will be holding a yard sale beginning on September 1 and lasting through the month of September. All proceeds will go towards children’s programs.

September 29, Cruisin’ for the Kids Motorcycle Ride - The first annual Cruisin’ for the Kids will begin on September 29 with

FISH DAY!

IT’S TIME TO STOCK YOUR POND! Delivery Will Be: Wednesday, October 10

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

HEIL ENVIRONMENTAL IN FORT PAYNE, ALABAMA IS LOOKING FOR WELDERS AND PAINTER B/ASSEMBLY GRINDERS! PLEASE APPLY AT WWW.DOVERESG.COM AND CLICK ON THE CAREERS PAGE.

To Place an Order, call:

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

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Staff: Southern Torch (USPS Periodicals #19790) is

Eloise Smith, Business Manager Marla Jones, Sports Editor

published each Friday by Southern Torch, Inc. 203

Zach Hester, Graphic Design Artist

Main Street E, Rainsville AL, 35986. POSTMASTER:

Amy Thrash, Advertising Representative

Send address changes to Southern Torch, P.O. Box 614 Rainsville, Alabama 35986-0614.

(256) 638-4040

Lindsey Jones, Office Assistant Membership rates: Regular yearly rate–$30 Senior or Veteran yearly rates–$25

registration at 10am and kickstands up at 11am.

Come join for a great time and a great cause. It begins at a CAC Center in Fort Payne, and all proceeds will go to the DeKalb County Children’s Advocacy Center.

October 6, Second Annual Patsy Pull - Join The Zone Fitness and Training for Breast Cancer Awareness Month by participating in their second ever Patsy Pull in Collinsville! Teams of 8 will race to see who can pull a fully loaded fire truck a distance of 20 feet in the shortest amount of time! Teams of 8 — $200 per team (all male and co-ed which must have at least four women). 100% of the profits will be donated to help fight breast cancer. It begins on Main Street in Collinsville at 6pm on October 6.

October 9, DeKalb County Sav-A-Life Banquet - Sav-A-Life of DeKalb County and the Women’s Care Center will host its annual banquet at the First United

Methodist Church from 6pm to 8pm on Tuesday, October 9. The guest speaker will be Abby Johnson and includes a sit down meal and special music.

October 13, Run for Rescue 5K - The Friends of DeKalb County Animal Adoption Center will host their annual Run for Rescue 5K Run/Walk and 1 Mile Kid’s Run/Walk on Saturday, October 13 beginning at the Rotary Pavilion in Fort Payne. 5K will begin at 8am and the Kid’s Run/Walk will follow. Register at racesonline.com or on-site beginning at 6:30am. For more information, email friendsofdcaac@gmail. com.

October 13, 5th Annual Dog Daze - Bring your dogs and human family to this event where the Little River Canyon Center staff features dog games and presentations on all topics canine such as dog adoption, dog advocacy, service dogs, and much more! It will be

held on Saturday, October 13 from 11am to 3pm and is free to the public!

October 13, Rainsville First Baptist Fall Festival - Rainsville First Baptist Church will host its fall festival on Saturday, October 13 from 10am to 2pm on the Upward Field located behind the church. There will be a car show, live music, Hope Puppets performing, a BBQ competition, a corn hole tournament, inflatables, kids’ games, arts and crafts, and a 5K. For more information, visit rainsvillefirst.com.

October 22, RTI Pumpkin Run - Rainsville Technology Inc. (RTI)’s 6th annual Great Pumpkin Run will be held on Saturday, October 20 at 8am beginning in the RTI parking lot.

Pre-registration is $25 and race day registration is $30. Dress up in your Halloween costume and come run or walk! All proceeds will go to the Children’s Advocacy Center.

Patented FleaBeacon controls fleas in the home without toxic chemicals or costly exterminators.

Results overnight!

Hometown Feed & Seed (www.fleabeacon.com)

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FRIDAY – SEPTEMBER 28, 2018

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

BUSINESS

Submit your business news to: admin@southerntorch.com

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CASE NO: CS-18-900102 ARACELI RODRIGUEZ CONTADOR, Plaintiff/Mother, v.

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BCBS announces No Rate Increases for C Plus Medicare Select Plans

IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA

NOTICE OF CUSTODY PROCEEDINGS SIMON GUTIERREZ CABALLERO, whose whereabouts are unknown, must answer the Complaint and other relief by the 5th day of November, 2018 or, thereafter, a judgment by default may be rendered against him in Case No.: CS-18-900102, in the District Court of DeKalb County, Alabama.

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About Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama has insured Alabamians for 82 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.

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FRIDAY – SEPTEMBER 28, 2018

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

5

POLITICS

Inside the Statehouse

By Steve Flowers AL Political Columnist MONTGOMERY, Ala. — The State of Alabama’s fiscal year begins next week on October 1. Our state’s finances are not the best in the world.

However, they got a boost from the U.S. Supreme Court earlier this year, The high tribunal ruled that states can collect sales tax on internet sales.

This was one of the most inequitable scenarios I have ever seen. If you went to the corner hardware store or Lowe’s or Walmart to buy a hammer and paint, you paid sales tax. However, if you bought these same items online you did not.

That is not fair to the store or the state. What is even more unfair is if your wife went down to the local

dress shop and tried on an expensive dress she liked and then came home and bought it online. How fair is that to the store, the clerk at the store or the state.

Finally, and thankfully, the Supreme Court clarified this inequality that had persisted for decades, since the inception of the internet.

Alabama had already gotten ahead of the curve in regards to collecting online sales tax. Through the wise stewardship of House Ways and Means Chairman, Steve Clouse, R-Ozark, we had joined 19 other states in passing legislation that companies were to voluntarily pay the online sales tax.

The legislation passed in 2015 was entitled the Simplified Sellers Use Tax. It allowed companies the permission to collect sales

tax to be remitted to the state voluntarily in exchange for locking in a fixed rate of 8 percent no matter where in the state an online item was sold. As you know, the sales tax rate deviates throughout each city and locale. In Alabama’s case, the money collected under our SSUT Act was divided 50/50 between the state and cities and counties. The city’s and county’s half is disbursed based on population. The state’s half is divided 75 percent to the General Fund and 25 percent to the Education Fund.

Chairman Clouse estimates that the state will reap an additional $18-20 million from the Supreme Court decision.

The Supreme Court’s 5-to-4 ruling overruled decades of old decisions that had cost the state billions of dollars

over the years.

The cases the Court overturned said that if a business was shipping an online customer’s purchase to a state where the business did not have a physical presence like a store, warehouse, or office, the business did not have to collect sales tax and remit to the state. Over the decades this has been referred to as the Physical Presence Rule.

Retiring Justice, Anthony Kennedy, wrote the majority opinion. He said, “Every year the Physical Presence Rule becomes further removed from economic reality and results in significant revenue losses to the state.” Retail trade groups praised the ruling saying that it levels the playing field for local and online businesses. President Trump praised the decision

via Twitter. The President hailed the Supreme Court opinion as a “Big victory for fairness and for our country.”

Speaking of President Trump and the Supreme Court, it is said and it is very true that the greatest legacy a U.S. President can record is an appointment to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Trump has had two in the first two years. Regardless of what transpires in the next two years of Trump’s reign, from conservative Americans viewpoint, this presidency has been a success.

The nominations of Neil Gorsuch last year and Brett Kavanaugh this year were BIG. Both men are in their early 50’s and will make a powerful impact on public policy and law in America for decades. Long after Trump is gone, his legacy as a stalwart,

conservative President will live on through Kavanaugh and Gorsuch.

Both are also men of character with impeccable credentials. They are strict Constitutional constructionists and adherents. Their intellectual prowess will be indelibly inscribed into the Law of the Land for generations.

As former President Barack Obama said, the night that Hillary Clinton lost to Donald Trump, “Elections have consequences.”

See you next week.

Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. Steve may be reached at, www. steveflowers.us.

home. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Tuesday, September 25 at Wilson Funeral Home with Rev. Ricky Clanton officiating. Burial followed in Walkers Chapel Cemetery.

September 25 at Walnut Grove Cemetery.

DEATH NOTICES BURT Paul Edwin Cash - 80 of Aragon, Ga., passed away on Sunday, September 23. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, September 26 at Cherokee Manor Community Room in Centre at 6pm with Rev. Ricky Pollard officiating.

WT WILSON Rebecca Dalton - 71 of Grove Oak, passed away on Thursday, September 20. Visitation was held from 5pm to 8pm on Friday, September 21 and from noon to service time on Saturday, September 22 at the funeral home.

Funeral services were held at 2pm on Saturday, September 22 at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel with Rev. Barry Goodwin officiating. Burial followed in New Prospect Cemetery.

BC Edmonds - 77 of Section, passed away on Friday, September 21.

Visitation was held from 10am to 1:15pm on Tuesday, September 25

at the funeral home. A graveside service was held at 2pm on Tuesday, September 25 at Bluff Cemetery in Section with Bros. Shawn Phillips and Steven Carson officiating.

Funeral services were held at 2pm on Saturday, September 29 at Crossville Memorial Chapel with Bro. John Hamilton officiating.

Cathy Partridge Spears - 64 of Fort Payne, passed away on Sunday, September 23.

Visitation was held from 6pm to 8pm on Tuesday, September 25 at the funeral home. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Wednesday, September 26 at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel with Revs. Billy Smothers and Karl Kuykendall officiating.

Lisa Coulter - 63 of Geraldine, passed away on Thursday, September 20 at Marshall Medical Center South. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Charles E. Bradford - 57 of Guntersville, passed away on Monday, September 24.

CROSSVILLE Candy Nix Cofield - 39 of Kilpatrick, passed away on Saturday, September 22 at Marshall Medical Center South. Visitation will be held from 12pm to 2pm on Saturday, September 29 at the funeral home.

GERALDINE

KERBY Dott Shaw - 89 of Flat Rock, passed away on Wednesday, September 19 at Serenity Place Assisted Living.

Visitation was held on Thursday, September 20 from 6pm to 8pm and Friday, September 21 from 9am to 11am at the funeral home. Funeral services were held on Friday, September 21 at 11am at Kerby Funeral Home Chapel. Burial followed in Flat Rock Methodist Church Cemetery.

Ronnie Whitaker - 71 of Henagar, passed away on Friday, September 21 at Huntsville Hospital.

Visitation was held on Sunday, September 23 from 2pm to 8pm and Monday, September 24 from 11am to 1pm at the funeral home. Funeral services were held at

1pm on Monday, September 24 at Kerby Funeral Home Chapel with Preacher Carie Waddell officiating.

David Michael Hutcheson, Sr. - 59 of Flat Rock, passed away on Friday, September 21 at Erlanger Medical Center. Visitation was held on Tuesday, September 25 from 2pm to 8pm and Wednesday, September 26 from 9am to 3pm at the funeral home. Funeral services were held at 3pm at Kerby Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Joe Thompson officiating.

Burial followed in Liberty Hill Cemetery.

Shirley Jean Burt - 75 of Fort Payne, passed away on Sunday, September 23 at her home. Visitation was held on Monday, September 24 from 4pm to 8pm and on Tuesday, September 25 from 8:30am to 10:30am at the funeral home. A graveside service was held at 11am on Tuesday,

RAINSVILLE RC Smith - 79 of Rainsville, passed away on Monday, September 24 at his residence.

Visitation was held on Tuesday, September 25 from 10am to 8pm on Wednesday, September 26 at 2pm at the funeral home. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Wednesday, September 26 at Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel. Burial followed in Kirk Memorial Gardens.

WILSON Carylon Crider Beason - 77 of Valley Head, passed away on Wednesday, September 19 at her home.

Visitation was held on Thursday, September 20 from 4pm to 8pm at the funeral home. Funeral services were held at 11am on Friday, September 21 at Wilson Funeral Home. Burial followed in Fort Payne Memory Gardens.

Clearon Twilley - 79 of Fort Payne, passed away on Saturday, September 22. Visitation was held on Monday, September 24 from 4pm to 8pm at the funeral

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FRIDAY – SEPTEMBER 28, 2018

THE SOUTHERN TORCHT

PLAINVIEW 7, SYLVANIA 3 COLLINSVILLE 50, IDER 20 ALEXANDRIA 66, CROSSVILLE 14 FYFFE 55, ASBURY 0

THIS WEEK’S SCOREBOARD IS SPONSORED BY

GAYLESVILLE 26, VALLEY HEAD 13 GERALDINE 47, NEW HOPE 14 CLAY CO. CHRISTIAN 59, CORNERSTONE 13

256-273-4900

sand mountain showdown PHOTO BY CHAMPIONPIX.NET

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor SYLVANIA, Ala. — The Sylvania Rams hosted the Plainview Bears in the annual Sand Mountain Showdown last Friday night.

Early in the game, both teams traded possession and went three-and-out. The first quarter saw no scores.

In the second quarter with 7:19 remaining on the clock, Christian Andrade kicked a 22-yard field goal for the Rams to take the lead of 3-0.

In the second half, the Plainview Bears put points on the board with 6:02 remaining in the game. On a 19-yard rushing touchdown by Drew Smith, the Bears took the lead. The extra point was by David Mejia to give the Bears the 7-3 lead.

Time ran out on the clock, giving the Plainview Bears their first win of the season.

The Plainview Bears had a total of 163 yards to Sylvania’s 115.

The Plainview Bears will face the Fyffe Red Devils at home on Friday night. The Sylvania Rams will travel and take on the North Sand Mountain Bisons.

HORNET HOMECOMING SPOILER

By Marla Jones Sports Editor

PHOTO BY CHERYL BOYDSTON

IDER, Ala. — The Ider Hornets hosted the Collinsville Panthers for their homecoming on Friday. The Panthers spoiled Ider's homecoming, defeating them 50-20.

Mason McKinney struck first for Collinsville on a 71-yard run. Jason Perez was spot on with his point after attempt, giving the Panthers the early 7-0 lead with 11:08 remaining on the time clock. With 2:28 left in the first, McKinney struck again on a 76-yard touchdown. The PAT by Perez was good, broadening the score to 14-0.

In the second quarter, Ider scored on a 12-yard touchdown pass from Seth Hawkins to Jacob Higdon.

The point after attempt by Jason Krebs was good, making the score 14-7 with 10:09 still in the half.

Jarrod Barkley answered back for the Panthers with a 39-yard pass to Kaleb Jones. The kick by Perez was once again good and the Panthers now led 21-7 with 8:35 remaining in the half. With 3:26 in the second, Jones connected with a 25-yard pass to Carmen Barkley. The snap on the extra point attempt was low and McKinney grabbed the ball and tossed to Michael Tucker for the two-point conversion bringing the score to 29-7. On the next offensive snap, Ider made their biggest play of the night with a 54-yard gallop down the field. Jace Palmer brought it in from 8 yards out to score for the Hornets. The PAT failed with two minutes remaining in the half.

Jones returned the kickoff to the 19 yard line and then connected with Barkley for the touchdown. Perez's extra point attempt was good and the Panthers PHOTO AMY walked intoBYthe halfTHRASH with a

36-13 lead.

With 4:47 remaining in the third, Jones connected with Tucker on a 59-yard bomb to bring the score to 43-13.

In the fourth quarter, the Ider Hornets made a fumble recovery which led to their final score of the night by Matthew Wood.

Collinsville put their last points on the board when backup quarterback Dalton Hughes bulldozed his way down the field for 51 yards. Tristan Gallegos made the extra point attempt, making the final score 50-20.

Kaleb Jones completed was 7 of 12 for four touchdowns on 170 yards.

Mason McKinney had 152 yards and two touchdowns.

The Ider Hornets will travel to take on the Valley Head Tigers on Friday night.

The Collinsville Panthers will have a bye week.

FRIDAY – SEPTEMBER 28, 2018

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

7

BULLDOGS ATTACK THE INDIANS

By Amy Thrash Sports Reporter

NEW HOPE,Ala. — The Geraldine Bulldogs defeated the New Hope Indians 47-14 in Class 3A, Region 7 play last Friday night. The Geraldine Bulldogs are now 3-0 in Region play.

The Bulldogs defense forced an Indian fumble on their first play. With 7:09 left in the first quarter, the Geraldine Bulldogs earned their first touchdown of the night. The PAT was good giving the Bulldogs the 7-0 lead. Chase Kermondy barreled down the field to score on a

PHOTO BY MARLA JONES

40-yard touchdown run to broaden their lead to 14-0 with 6:32 remaining in the first.

By the second quarter, the Bulldogs scored two more touchdown giving them the 28-0 lead at the half.

In the third quarter, DJ Graham connected with Jackson Bearden for the score. The PAT was blocked making the score 34-0.

Kermondy bulldozed down the field on a 50-yard run to score again. The PAT was blocked again giving the Bulldogs the 40-0 advantage over the New Hope Indians. With 3:31 remaining in the third,

New Hope scored their first touchdown of the night bringing the score to 40-7.

In the fourth, the Bulldogs scored their last touchdown of the night.

The Indians would also score late in the fourth.

Chase Kermondy led the Bulldogs with 3 touchdowns for 134 yards.

Andrew Hall had 2 touchdowns for 43 yards.

DJ Graham was 4 for 9 with 99-yards,including a 63-yard touchdown pass to Jackson Bearden.

The Geraldine Bulldogs with travel on the road to play the Sardis Lions on Friday night.

Lions Declawed by Valley Cubs CCA falls in First Homecoming

PHOTO BY MARLA JONES

By Zach Hester Reporter zach@southerntorch.com ALEXANDRIA, Ala. — The Crossville Lions were knocked down last Friday night by Region 6 opponent Alexandria

66-14.

With 6:40 remaining in the first quarter, the Valley Cubs took the lead at 7-0. Alexandria made another touchdown in the first, bringing the score to 14-0.

In the second quarter,

the Valley Cubs scored two more touchdowns, but the extra point was not made on one. With one minute until halftime, Cameron Adkins scored for the Lions. The score at the half was 27-7.

By the time 3:45 rolled onto the play clock in the third quarter, both teams had almost doubled their scores, giving the Valley Cubs a 53-14 lead over the Crossville Lions.

The final score of the night was 66-14 with Alexandria taking the win.

Crossville quarterback Trent Bryant passed for 140 yards and one touchdown. He also lead with 32 rushing yards. Jay Luther ran four yards for the Lions’ second touchdown of the night.

The Crossville Lions will travel to Springville this Friday night.

PHOTO BY KAYLA FORTNER

By Marla Jones Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com RAINSVILLE, Ala. — Clay County Christian Academy clipped the wings of the Cornerstone Christian Academy Eagles last Friday at the first homecoming game for the Eagles, 59-13.

With 6:00 minutes left in the first quarter, Clay County scored, but missed

Valley Head Taken Down by Trojans

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor GAYLESVILLE, Ala. — The Valley Head Tigers were defeated the Gaylesville Trojans 26-13 in region play last week.

The Tigers’ opening drive began with a 40-yard kickoff return by Bryson Morgan. Marlon Trinidad then carried the ball for 13 yards, which put the Tigers in the red zone, but the Tigers went four-and-out.

The Trojans took an early lead with an 80-yard touchdown run. The PAT was no good, but the Trojans reigned at 6-0 with 8:31 left in the first quarter.

To start the second quarter, with 11:51 remaining, Trinidad scored from two yards out. The PAT was good, giving the Tigers a 7-6 lead that wouldn’t last long. The Trojans replied with a 60-yard drive then 9-yard touchdown run. Gaylesville then went for two, making the

score 14-7 with 8:30 remaining in the first half.

The Tigers scored on a 5-yard run by David Hatfield.

An extra point would have tied the game, but the kick was blocked to make the score 14-13 as the halftime buzzer sounded.

In the third, the Trojans dashed down the field with a 15-yard run. They went for two, but Valley Head stood strong and stopped them to make the score 20-13 with just 4:45 left in the third.

In the fourth quarter, the Trojans expanded their lead with a 74-yard pass. Their two point conversion failed, but they still got to build their lead to 26-13.

The Tigers’ last two possessions went three-and-out.

The Trojans ran the clock out to win over Valley Head for the first time since 2011.

The Tigers will host the Ider Hornets this Friday night.

their extra point, giving them the early 6-0 lead.

Cornerstone answered back with a touchdown run and a successful extra point conversion.

At the end of the first quarter, Clay County led 19-7. Cornerstone made another score, but it was called back for holding.

In the second, Clay County put 20 more points on the board, bringing the score to 39-13 due to

Cornerstone’s Bryce Dupree stopping one of Clay County’s extra points.

In the third and fourth quarters, Clay County went on to score 20 more points, bringing the final score to 59-13, despite a good effort

by Cornerstone at their first homecoming game.

Cornerstone Christian Academy will face Victory Christian Academy in Millbrook, Ala. away this Friday night.

FANS OF THE WEEK

The Southern Torch Fan of the Week is Bubba Harris. Bubba was spotted enjoying the Plainview/ Sylvania game.

Submit your photos to marla@southerntorch. com to be the next Southern Torch Fan of the Week.

8

FRIDAY – SEPTEMBER 28, 2018

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Red Devils Incinerate the Rams

By Marla Jones Sports Editor

FYFFE, Ala. — The Fyffe Red Devils took on the Asbury Rams for their Homecoming. The Devils defeated the Rams, 55-0.

On the first play from scrimmage, Zach Pryon hit Payton Stoner on a 69 yard touchdown pass to put Fyffe on the board first. After a Wyatt Godwin fumble recovery, Zach Pyron took the next play to the endzone to put Fyffe up 14-0 with 11:06

to play in the first. After a four and out by Asbury, Payton Anderson scored on the first play of the series on a 35-yard sweep around the right side to make things 20-0 with 8:25 to play in the 1st.

With 5:01 to play in the first, Jack Stone scored on a 20 yard run to put Fyffe up 27-0. After an Asbury fumble, Anderson scored again on a 6 yard play to make things 34-0 with 3:05 to play in the first.

With 11:06 to play in the second quarter, Cage

Cochran scored on a 8 yard run to broaden the Red Devil lead to 41-0.

With 5:58 to play in the half,, Ike Rowell scored on a 14-yard run to give the Red Devils the 48-0 advantage going into the half.

The Red Devils put in their second string during the second half, scoring one more time before the game ended.

Fyffe will travel to take on the Plainview Bears on Friday.

PHOTO BY BRUCE WILSON

ELLIOTT HONORED AT HOMECOMING

By Marla Jones Sports Editor

FYFFE, Ala. — At the Fyffe homecoming game against Asbury, Waylon Elliott (great-grandfather of Payton Anderson) was honored as the first Fyffe football player to be named All-State.

Elliott played football for the Red Devils from 1944 to 1946. He was chosen as all-state in 1945.

He was named honorary captain for the night and walked onto the field with his great-grandson for the coin toss.

Mr. Elliott is a true Red Devil and at ninety years young, he looks as if he could still play today.

Congratulations to Mr. Elliott on this achievement.

RAMS CHEER FOR THE TIGERS

Rhonda Elliott Wells is pictured with her father, Waylon Elliott and grandson, Payton Anderson. (Marla Jones | Southern Torch)

By Marla Jones Sports Editor

AUBURN, Ala. — The Sylvania Rams Cheer team had the honor of doing a routine at the Auburn v. Arkansas game last week.

Congratulations girls on this great achievement!

Pictured (Back Row): Abby Grace Shrader, Olivia Berry, Audrey

Shrader, Somer Gimm, Alivia Terrell. (Front Row): Kendel Hill, Alyssa Howell, Isabella Corbin, and Emi Lambert.

(Submitted Photo)

VALLEY HEAD HOMECOMING CORNERSTONE HOMECOMING

FRONT ROW (L to R): Tessica Burke (7th grade), Lydia Crane (8th grade), Jacie O'tinger (9th grade), Kaylynn Hulgan (10th grade). BACK ROW (L to R): Ally Smith (11th grade), Merissa Phillips (11th grade), Katelyn Busby (senior attendant), Macy Hirst (senior attendant), Rylee Vest (senior attendant), and Vandila Freeman (senior attendant).

CCA has chosen to do homecoming a little differently. Every student in grades 7-12 is adopted into a house, which are designed to make every student have a place where they belong and can excel. Each house elected who they wanted to serve as their Chancellor for Homecoming. (L to R): Maggie Wilks and Saxon Cloud (The Potter's House), Abbie Sims and Layne Fortner (House of Zion), Belle Oliver and Trey Bell (House of Ravenwood), Kelly Nelson and Jackson Clines (House of Elisha).

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THE SOUTHERN TORCH

TEAM OF THE WEEK

9

PLAINVIEW BEARS

CAROL HIETT

DEKALB COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION • DISTRICT 3

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE TEAM OF THE WEEK! PD. POL. ADV. BY CAROL HIETT • P.O. BOX 1661 RAINSVILLE, AL 35986

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FRIDAY – SEPTEMBER 28, 2018

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