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THE SOUTHERN TORCH / FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2018 / VOL. 4, NO. 46 / $1.00
Drug Bust in Rainsville
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By Marla Jones Reporter RAINSVILLE, Ala. — On Thursday, November 8, Sergeant Stephen Malone of the Rainsville Police Department noticed a car driving erratically on Scott Avenue North. Sergeant Malone pulled the vehicle over. After a check of license, it was found that the driver had a felony warrant. Misty Dawn Stiefel, age 42 of Fyffe, was arrested. After an inspection of the automobile, it was found that Stiefel had in her possession: a box containing 494 grams (1.089 pounds) of methamphetamine. In her purse, she had 12.55 grams (1.113 pounds), two hand rolled marijuana cigarettes and two Xanax pills. Stiefel is charged with: trafficking methamphetamine, unlawful possession of a controlled substance, unlawful possession of marijuana (first), possession of drug paraphernalia and resisting arrest. “Ms. Stiefel had over a
>> DRUG BUST, P2
And then there were three...
County GOP elects new leadership District 4 Commissioner Lester Black was sworn in for the first time alongside returning Commissioner Chris Kuykendall and Commission President Ricky Harcrow at Wednesday's meeting of the DeKalb County Commission. (Amy Thrash | Southern Torch)
By Marla Jones Reporter DEKALB COUNTY, Ala. — The DeKalb County Commission welcomed a brand new commissioner at their organizational meeting on Wednesday, November 14.
Lester Black, who defeated District 4 Commissioner DeWitt Jackson in the election last week, was sworn in alongside returning District 3 Commissioner Chris Kuykendall and Commission President Ricky Harcrow.
The first round of business was the election of a new President Pro-Tem of the Commission. Chris Kuykendall was
>> COMMISSION, P2
By Marla Jones Reporter DEKALB COUNTY, Ala. — On Tuesday night, the DeKalb County Republican Party held their regular meeting to elect new County Party Officers. The party elected the following people as the 2019-20 officers: David Gulledge (Chairman), D.L.
Stiefel (Vice Chairman), Robert Crumley
>> COUNTY GOP, P2
OCC: A TIME FOR GIVING
By Marla Jones Reporter
TORCHCAST
FRIDAY 11/16
48 • 32
SATURDAY 11/17
53 • 37
SUNDAY 11/18
49 • 33
DEKALB COUNTY, Ala. — It seems like Christmas comes a little bit earlier every year. In the case of preparing for this year’s Operation Christmas Child, churches across the United States have been gathering supplies to ship shoe boxes and spread the gospel since early August, some since last year’s operation. Operation Christmas Child, a part of Samaritan’s Purse, is a very special ministry run by Billy Graham’s son, Franklin Graham. Participants from across the nation fill shoeboxes with items that
appeal to children ages 2-14. Those shoeboxes are then sent overseas to kids, who open the boxes for Christmas and have the opportunity to receive the story of Jesus, most likely for the first time in their lives. The official drop off location for DeKalb County this year is Pine Ridge Baptist Church. Amy Heard Glover, the Central Drop Off Team Leader, has devoted many hours to this project. Each box that leaves the church will be prayed over before they head to Atlanta.
>> OCC, P2
Pictured (L to R): Amy Glover, Charlie Glover, Adrienne Guice, Lamesa Bowman, Danny Stewart, Carol Stewart, Sharon Byrd, Debbie Wofford, Tyler Ledford, Gerald Bowman. (Middle Row): Brody Freeman, Gill Farmer, Mason Farmer, Amanda Whitfield, Anna, Katie Avans, Madison, Jeanlyn, Bo Waldrop. (Front Row): Carson Freeman & Pastor Carl Partain. 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 — NOVEMBER 16, 2018
OCC from Page 1 The church will be open every day during National Collection Week. The hours are: • Monday, November 12 from 10am to 6pm • Tuesday, November 13 from 10am to 6pm • Wednesday, November 14 from 10am to 7pm • Thursday, November 15 from 10am to 6pm • Friday, November 16 from 10am to 5pm • Saturday, November 17 from 10am to 4pm • Sunday, November 18 from 1pm to 5pm • Monday, November 19 from 8am to 12pm When asked what Operation Christmas Child means to her, she said, “OCC is a way for families, churches, civic organizations and school groups to come together to prepare gifts, which will then be delivered all over the world to children
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
in need.” “The Gospel will be presented with every gift!” she continued. “That makes it the perfect ministry for everyone, young and old, to be a missionary without ever leaving the USA!” To some, Operation Christmas Child may just appear to be another charity that gets lost in the mix as we head into the Christmas season. However, for the kids that receive these boxes, it might just be the best gift they ever receive. To learn more about the Operation Christmas Child ministry, visit their website at www. samaritanspurse.org. You will find information about how to prepare a box, what items are appropriate to pack, where to drop off the boxes you make, and just about anything else you would want to know. You may also call Amy Heard Glover at (256) 717-5850 for additional information.
THE FISHERMEN SOUTHERN GOSPEL QUARTET
For Bookings call: Glenn Smith (256) 572-6146
The new DeKalb County Commission. (Amy Thrash | Southern Torch)
COMMISSION, PAGE 1 DRUG BUST, PAGE 1
unanimously chosen as the new Pro-Tem because of his seniority. It was also agreed upon by the Commission that meetings will continue to be the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month at 10am in the DeKalb County Activities Building. Road Department Supervisor Tom Broyles requested that the Commission allow him to repost an available position within the Road Department for another two weeks. The Commission approved Broyles’ request. DeKalb County Engineer Ben Luther thanked now-former commissioner DeWitt Jackson for his sixteen years of service. Luther had scheduled the vacation of County Road 681, and due to state law, he called a public hearing and asked that the floor be opened for anyone who had discussion on this issue. With no discussion, he requested that a resolution adopting this vacation be approved. The Revenue Commission office asked the Commission to approve Becca Akins as collection clerk. They also requested that an open position as a collection clerk be posted to fill the position of Kristin Newman that was vacated on November 2. Probate Judge Ronnie Osborn requested an open position vacated by Misty Jackson on December 31, 2018 be filled by Jasmine Wilson, who is currently employed by the County. Jonathan Langley of the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office asked, due to the retirement of Rodney Johnson, that the
Commission approve Christina Ferguson to fill the vacated position. He also asked that they promote Blakely Moore to a Grade 6 Step 6 raise and to hire Lennon Jenkins as a part-time school resource officer. Langley also gave an update on the addition of federal prisoners to the DeKalb County Detention Center. There have been no issues and everything is running smoothly. The vehicles for transport have been ordered and the jail now houses 35 federal inmates. Commission President Ricky Harcrow reported that due to the open meetings law, he informed the media that the Commission would only hold one meeting during month of December. It will be held on Tuesday, December 12. The next meeting of the DeKalb County Commission will be held on November 27, 2018 at 10am in the DeKalb County Activities Building.
pound of methamphetamine in her possession. I appreciate the watchful eye of Sergeant Malone and Lieutenant Alfred Rigistad of the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Department,” stated Rainsville Police Chief,
Kevin Smith. “Our officers are working hard to keep drugs off the streets of Rainsville and DeKalb County.” Stiefel was booked into the DeKalb County Detention Center under a $126,000 bond.
COUNTY GOP, PAGE 1
(Secretary), and Nick Jones (Treasurer). DeKalb County’s GOP Executive Officers serve a term of two years. At the meeting, the local GOP recapped the recent elections, which saw a tidal wave of support across the county for the Republican Party, most notably their big wins in the races for DeKalb County Sheriff (Nick Welden) Circuit Clerk (Todd Greeson), and DeKalb County Commission – District 4 (Lester Black). Additionally, Republicans won every local race on the ballot in
DeKalb County. Newly-elected Chairman David Gulledge said he was both humbled and excited to be named as the new Chairman of the DeKalb County Republican Party. Gulledge encouraged everyone to continue to promote conservative values in society and government. It was also announced that the local GOP will host its annual Christmas party fundraiser on Tuesday, December 4 at the DeKalb Theatre in Fort Payne. To purchase a ticket for this event, please see any member of the DeKalb County Republican
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THE SOUTHERN TORCH
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COMMUNITY
UPCOMING EVENTS Every Monday, By His Hand Outreach Ministry — The By His Hands Outreach Ministry will host a soup kitchen beginning on Mondays at 6pm. The Clothes Closet will be open Monday through Friday from 9am to 5pm. Both are at 2494 Church Avenue in Rainsville. Donations are greatly appreciated! 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. November 16-17, Vintage Pickin’ Christmas Market — Vintage Pickin’ Christmas Market at White Oaks Farm is for you to shop from 50+ hand-selected artisans and pickers from across the Southeast. These vendors have done the hunting for you! They bring truckloads of one of a kind antiques, speciality finds & vintage-inspired handmade goods that will be unique to you. For details regarding time, please visit the Vintage Pickin’ Facebook page. November 17, Collinsville Historic Turkey Trot — Join us for food, fun and games. An antique car and tractor show, turkey shoot, cake walk, and historic “turkey toss” from the roof of a building make this an event fun for all ages! It will be held from 9am to 3pm and is free and open to the public! November 18, Flat Rock Singing — There will be a gospel singing at Flat Rock Church near Grove Oak on Sunday, November 18 at 5pm! The special singers will be The Old
Time Christians. The church is located on County Road 356 near High Falls Park. Everyone is invited! November 22, Thanksgiving — Celebrate Thanksgiving with your family, friends and the people you love! November 22, Thanksgiving at the Green Leaf Grill — Mentone’s Green Leaf Grill will open its doors for all that have no plans for Thanksgiving Day! Come enjoy traditional Thanksgiving day food and fellowship from 11am to 3pm on Thursday, November 22! November 22, Plainview Annual Turkey Trot 5K — Join Plainview High School for their annual Turkey Trot 5K on Thanksgiving Day. Race will begin at the DeKalb Schools Coliseum in Rainsville at 8am and race day registration is $30. December 1, Valley Head Christmas Parade — Come out and enjoy floats, antique cars, Santa and so much more at the Town of Valley Head’s Christmas parade which will begin at 10am! December 1, Christmas at the Crossroads & Parade — Come and enjoy a celebration at the Annual Christmas at the Crossroads in Rainsville! This fun, festive event is filled with refreshments, caroling and a parade! It begins at 12pm and is free to the public. An open house will be in the Bevill Center from 10am to 11:30am with snacks and games for the children. December 1, Henagar Christmas Parade — Come out to enjoy floats, antique cars, Santa, the Christmas Tree lighting and so much more! It begins at 5pm. December 1, Sand Mountain Lulapalooza Sale — LuLaRoe Retailers will host a huge sale on Saturday, December 1 from noon to 5pm at the Northeast Alabama Agri-Business Center! Amazing vendors will be there with wonderful products like Color Street, Plunder Jewelry, Dandelion Wishes, Scentsy and much more! Please come out and join in on the amazing time! December 7-9, 13-16, NACC Theatre presents A Christmas Carol — NACC
Theatre will present “A Christmas Carol” held at the Tom Bevill Lyceum on the campus of Northeast Alabama Community College. Friday-Saturday evening performances will begin at 7pm and Sunday matinees begin at 2pm. All seats are reserved and tickets are $5 each. December 7, Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day — Come and be a part of this remembrance program presented by the DeKalb County VFW. The program will culminate at the bridge. Each year, Traci’s donates a wreath that is dropped from the bridge and carried downstream in tribute to those who gave their lives in the line of duty at Pearl Harbor. Please join the VFW members in this Pearl Harbor Remembrance ceremony. In the Exhibit Hall of the Little River Canyon Center from 11am to noon. December 7, DERA Meeting — The DeKalb Education Retirees Association (DERA) will meet on Friday, December 7 at Kelly’s Kitchen in Rainsville at 10am. Our program will focus on the best balance exercises for seniors. All DeKalb County and Fort Payne City School retired education employees, active and support, are invited and encouraged to attend. December 7, Fort Payne Christmas in the Park — Christmas in the Park festivities will take place in Fort Payne City Park on December 7 from 3pm to 7pm. Festivities will include drinks, hot chocolate, hot apple cider, popcorn, music and fun for the whole family! December 8, Fyffe Christmas Parade — Come out and enjoy floats, antique cars, marching band, Santa and much more! It begins at 12pm in downtown Fyffe. December 8, Geraldine Christmas Parade — The annual Christmas Parade will be held on Main Street in Geraldine beginning at 5pm! December 8, Ider Christmas Parade — The Ider Christmas parade will be held on Highway 75 in Ider at 1pm! December 8, Sylvania Christmas Parade — The Sylvania Christmas parade will be held on
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Highway 75 in Sylvania at 2pm! December 8, Collinsville Christmas Parade — The Collinsville Christmas parade will be held in Historic Downtown Collinsville at 2pm! December 8, Crossville Christmas Parade — The Crossville Christmas parade will be held on Highway 68 in Crossville at 5pm! December 14, Vulcraft Holiday Market — Come enjoy a night of food, crafts, clothing, jewelry and a silent auction at the Vulcraft Holiday Market in The Building, located in downtown Fort Payne! All proceeds go to the DeKalb County Children’s Advocacy Center. It will be held from 4pm to 9pm and everyone is invited. December 14, Wilburn / Wilburn & The LeFevre Quartet at the Pickin' Post — Everyone is invited to a special Christmas show! Come enjoy Wilburn/ Wilburn & The Lefevre Quartet at The Pickin' Post in Fort Payne, Alabama. Tickets are available at Black's Tire in Rainsville and Rogers Pawn, Music and Jewelry in Fort Payne. The show will be held on Saturday, December 14 at 7pm. Tickets are $15 per person. December 15, TVRA at the Agri-Business Center — Tennessee Valley Roping Association presents the Team Roping Competition at the Northeast Alabama Agri-Business Center in Rainsville at 9am. Books open at 8:30am, roping starts at 9am sharp!
HUNTER OF THE WEEK
Ryker Ingle, a 5th grader at Fort Payne Middle School bagged this beautiful doe on a Youth Hunt recently. Submit your photos to marla@southerntorch.com to be our next Hunter of the Week.
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FRIDAY — NOVEMBER 16, 2018
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
POLITICS
INSIDE THE STATEHOUSE Wrecks Result in
Two Fatalities
By Staff Reports
By Steve Flowers AL Political Columnist MONTGOMERY, Ala. — The legendary Alabama storyteller, Kathryn Tucker Windham, used to say, “Alabama is like a big front porch.” She was right, I have found that to be the case my entire life. Even recently, as I’ve traversed the state, I am always amazed at how you can visit with someone in one part of the state who is kin to or were college roommates with someone in another corner of Alabama. The Alabama that Kay Ivey and I grew up in was even more like a front porch. Kay grew up in Wilcox County where her family had been for generations. Therefore, she knew most everybody in the county and Camden. There were and still are less than 12,000 people in Wilcox County. There have always been more pine trees than people in the county. She grew up with and has always been best friends with a trio of very accomplished people. As I sometimes say when I see someone who I’ve known all my life, I’ve never not known them. Kay has never not known Jeff Sessions, Jo Bonner, and Judy Bonner. She was like a big sister to them growing up in Camden. It’s truly amazing that a small South Alabama County just north of Mobile would spawn our
U.S. Senator for 20 years, Jeff Sessions, Mobile Congressman, Jo Bonner who served Mobile, Baldwin and southwest Alabama for more than a decade, and former University of Alabama President, Judy Bonner, and now a Governor of Alabama, Kay Ivey. Even more amazing is that they grew up together and are contemporaries. They all have impeccable southern manners, and are all quick to say yes ma'am, no ma'am and thank you religiously. Some of you might think that Kay’s Black Belt accent is accentuated. It is real and unique and indicative of someone who has roots in that area of the state. You might notice that Jeff Sessions diction and accent is similar. The most important thing that can be said about Governor Kay Ivey, Senator Jeff Sessions, Congressman Jo Bonner and President Judy Bonner is that you have never ever heard one comment or even one inkling of anything unethical or improper or taint of scandal about their public or personal lives. Folks, they were brought up right in Wilcox County. Kay Ivey was born to be a leader. She was president of everything in her high school. She went to Girl’s State and was a leader there. By the way, she continues to go back to Girl’s State every year to
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counsel and help lead the organization. She spent a short stint as a teacher, then banker in Mobile. Then politics beckoned and another Black Belt, Speaker of the House, Joe McCorquodale, made Kay the Reading Clerk in the House of Representatives. She parlayed that job into a job as Legislative Liaison for the Alabama Commission on Higher Education. I really got to know Kay at this point. I was a legislator with a major university in my district. She was plain spoken, straight forward, and very honest. Kay has always been known for her integrity and upfront frankness and honesty. To use an old saying, her word is her bond. She will not lie and she will not cheat or steal. She was raised right. Kay then got into the arena. She was elected State Treasurer twice where she served for eight years. Then she was elected Lt. Governor twice. She ascended to Governor 20 months ago and has done an excellent job of steadying the Ship of State. She seems keenly interested and driven by economic and industrial development. That will be her hallmark legacy. The state is poised to grow economically and industrially over the next four years. In the closing days of her very successful race to be Alabama’s 55th Governor, she revealed in an ad a letter from her days as a young girl visiting Governor Lurleen Wallace in the Governor’s Office, a letter she had written about the Governor’s desk. “This is the closest I’ll get.” However, deep down, I believe she dreamed that one day she would sit in that chair and now she does. Kay Ivey is the second female elected Governor of Alabama. However, she is the first elected Republican female and the only female elected in her own right. She will be a good Governor. Probably the best we have had in a while. See you next week.
FORT PAYNE, Ala. — Two wrecks occurred over the weekend that unfortunately resulted in two fatalities. Both accident accounts are according to the Fort Payne Police Department. On Saturday, November 10 at approximately 9:10pm, a two car accident occurred on Wallace Avenue just below the intersection of Scenic Drive. A 2003 Nissan Altima driven by Colton Clark Ray, age 21 of Henagar, careened off of a guardrail causing it to enter into the oncoming lane of traffic, striking a 2014 Honda Odyssey driven by 57-year-old Carlton Neal Goldin of
Rainsville. Mr. Golden was transported to DeKalb Regional Hospital by DeKalb Ambulance Service, Mrs. Golden was airlifted to Huntsville Hospital by AirEvac. Mr. Ray was ejected from his vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene from his injuries. On Sunday, November 11 at approximately 5:05am, a 2015 Honda Civic driven by Richard Alyn Ciesco, age 84 of
Statesboro, Ga. was traveling northbound in the south bound lane of Interstate 59. Mr. Ciesco struck a 2011 Infinity head on being driven by Brandi N. Wooten, age 32 of Southside. Wooten was airlifted to Erlanger Hospital by AirEvac. Mr. Ciesco died on the scene as a result of his injuries. Both accidents continue to be investigated by the Fort Payne Police Department.
FRIDAY — NOVEMBER 16, 2018
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
BUSINESS
with Marla & Marshall
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James Allensworth • allensworthgold@aol.com
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Fort Payne, AL 35968 • (256) 997-7591
Woody’s
Steak & Seafood Tuesday-Thursday — 10:30-7 Friday & Saturday — 10:30-8 Sunday — 11-3
105 Co. Rd. 89 in Fort Payne / Dogtown
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Woody’s
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DEATH NOTICES BURT Thelma Dee Burgess Henderson - 81, passed away on Saturday, November 10. Visitation was held on Tuesday, November 13 at Burt Chapel-Fort Payne from 11am to 2pm. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Tuesday, November 13 at Burt Chapel-Fort Payne with Rev. Paul Talley officiating. Burial followed in Walnut Grove Cemetery.
WT WILSON Tony Faye Cook - 63 of Henagar, passed away on Saturday, November 10. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Susan Elizabeth Wilson - 60 of Rainsville, passed away on Saturday, November 10. A private memorial service will be held at a later date. Nettie Mae Solberg - 65 of Sylvania, passed away on Saturday, November 10. Funeral services were held at 12pm ET on Tuesday, November 13 at the King of Kings Church in Abbeville, Ga. with burial in the adjoining cemetery. Mildred Armstrong Mitchell - 83 of Grove Oak, passed away on Saturday, November 10. Visitation
Jared Gore - Sales
was held from 5pm to 8pm on Monday, November 12 at the funeral home. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Tuesday, November 13 at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel with Bro. Bobby Pendergrass officiating. Burial followed in Piney Grove Cemetery. Jerry Harold McDaniel - 70 of Rainsville, passed away on Sunday, November 11. A memorial service will be announced at a later date. Billy C. Richards - 82 of Dawson, passed away on Monday, November 12. Visitation was held on Wednesday, November 14 from 4pm to 8pm at the funeral home. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Thursday, November 15 at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel with Bros. Don Brock, Wayne Tarvin, and Mike Simpson officiating. Burial followed in Fairview Cemetery. Billy Glenn McBride - 57 of Section, passed away on Tuesday, November 13. Visitation was held from noon to 8pm on Thursday, November 15 at the funeral home. Funeral services will be held at 1pm on Friday, November 16 at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel with Bros. Charles Lewis and Paul Little officiating. Burial
Office: (256) 878-1050 www.howardbentley.com Cell: (256) 558-3166 Email: jared@howardbentley.com
followed in Section Methodist Cemetery.
CORNER STONE Connie Mae Dillon - 62 of Chattanooga, passed away on Friday, November 9 at CHI Memorial. Visitation was held from 5pm to 8pm ET on Saturday, November 10 and from 11am to the service time on Sunday, November 11. Funeral services were held on Sunday, November 11 at 2pm ET at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel with Elder Gregg Phillips officiating. Burial followed in Fuller Cemetery. Roxanne Fraker - 56 of Flat Rock, passed away on Sunday, November 11 at her residence. A memorial service was held on Tuesday, November 13 at 5pm CT at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel with Bro. Darryl Watkins officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Bobby Gene Whisenant - 53 of Flat Rock, passed away on Monday, November 12 at his residence. Visitation was held from 4pm to 8pm on Tuesday, November 13 and from noon to service time on Wednesday, November 14 at the funeral home. Funeral services were held at 2pm CT on Wednesday, November 14 at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel. Burial followed in Green Haven Memorial Gardens. Billie Jean Reed - 91 of Flat Rock, passed away on Monday, November 12 at
her residence. Visitation was held from 4pm to 8pm on Wednesday, November 14 and from 9am to service time on Thursday, November 15 at the funeral home. Funeral services were held at Thursday, November 15 at 10am at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel with Bro. Robert Reed officiating. Burial followed in Overlook Cemetery. David Crump - 84, passed away on Monday, November 12 at Crowne Health Care. Visitation was held from 6pm to 8pm on Wednesday, November 12 and 10am to service time on Thursday, November 13 at the funeral home. Funeral services were held at 1pm on Thursday, November 13 at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel with Bro. Kevin Wilks officiating. Burial followed in New Home Cemetery. Peggy Lou Richardson - 69 of Rossville, passed away on Tuesday, November 13. Visitation will precede the service from 10am until 1pm CT at the funeral home. Funeral services will be held at 1pm on Friday, November 16 at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel. Burial followed in Bethlehem Cemetery.
RAINSVILLE Wilma Jean Thompson - 83 of Pleasant Hill, passed away on Tuesday, November 13 at her residence. Visitation will be held on Thursday, November 15 from 5pm to 8pm and Friday, November 16 from 10am to 2pm at the funeral home. Funeral
services will be held on Friday, November 16 at 2pm at Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Dean Bowling officiating. Burial will follow in Rainsville Memorial Park. Colton Clark Ray - 21 of Henagar, passed away on Saturday, November 10. Visitation was held from 5pm to 8pm on Monday, November 12 and from 1pm to 2pm on Tuesday, November 13 at Rainsville Funeral Home. Funeral services were held on Tuesday, November 13 at 2pm at Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel. Burial followed in Green Haven Memorial Gardens. Cathy Houston - 65 of Collinsville, passed away on Friday, November 9 at Collinsville Health and Rehab. A graveside service was held on Sunday, November 11 at 2pm at Lusk Chapel Cemetery with Bro. Earnest Corbitt officiating. Burial followed in Lusk Chapel Cemetery.
CROSSVILLE Alyce Anne Griffin - 80 of Dawson, passed away on Sunday, November 11 at Shepherd’s Cove Hospice. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 17 at 11am at Crossville Memorial Chapel with Bro. Paul Talley officiating.
WILSON
Harold Albert Bourne - 84 of Fort Payne, passed away on Thursday, November 8. Visitation was held on Monday, November 12 from noon to service time at the funeral home. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Monday, November 12 at Wilson Funeral Home. Burial followed in New Testament Cemetery with military honors.
Susan Fox Butler - 58 of Fort Payne, passed away on Thursday, November 8. Visitation was held on Monday, November 13 from 2pm to 4pm at the funeral home. Funeral services were held at 4pm on Monday, November 13 at Wilson Funeral Home with Dr. Kevin McCreless and Rev. John Parrish officiating.
FISH DAY!
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Smithville 2:30-3:15 @ DeKalb Co Farmer’s Co-op McMinnville 3:45-4:30 @ Warren Farmer’s Co-op
Friday, November 16
Woodbury 7:30-8:15 @ Woodbury Farmer’s Co-op
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FRIDAY — NOVEMBER 16, 2018
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
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BARN BURNER RED DEVILS SHUTOUT THE PANTHERS
The Warriors could not cage the Panthers. (Marla Jones | Southern Torch)
By Marla Jones Sports Editor COLLINSVILLE, Ala. — In a game that had fans on the edge of their seats for all of the fourth quarter, the Collinsville Panthers defeated the Westbrook Christian Warriors, 35-21 on Friday night. This win will advance to Panthers to the second round of the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) State Playoffs. On the second play from scrimmage, Kaleb Jones connected with Mason McKinney on a 61-yard pass for the touchdown. The extra point by Jason Perez was good and the Panthers took the early 7-0 lead. Blake Spears stripped the ball away from Westbrook and set up the next Panther score. With 10:39
remaining in the first, Mckinney darted into the endzone from 4-yards. The PAT by Perez was good , giving the Panthers the 14-0 advantage. With 10:04 remaining in the second quarter, McKinney dashed into the endzone from 1-yard out. The kick by Perez was good, giving the Panthers the 21-0 lead. With 6:51 remaining in the first half, Westbrook put points on the board with a 3-yard dart into the endzone. The PAT was good, making the score 21-7. Collinsville answered back with a 7-yard quarterback keeper by Jones. The kick by Perez was good and the Panthers went into the half with a 28-7 advantage over the Warriors. Westbrook scored with 2:48 remaining in the third with a 21-yard pass connection. The PAT was
good, making the score 28-14. The fourth quarter was back and forth with both teams refusing to back down. Westbrook narrowed the Panther lead with a 61-yard pass connection for the score. The kick brought the game within 7. Miles Underwood stopped the Warrior momentum with a quarterback sack late in the fourth. McKinney charged into the endzone from 8 yards out. The kick by Perez was good, making the final score 35-21. Mason McKinney finished the night rushing 84 yards on twelve carries. Kaleb Jones rushed for 90 yards on 19 carries. The Collinsville Panthers (10-1) will travel on Friday night to face the Aliceville Yellow Jackets (9-2) in the second round of AHSAA State Playoffs.
A Cleveland Panther unsuccessfully tries to stop Fyffe's Payton Anderson. (Kristy Gallagher | Southern Torch)
By Marla Jones, Sports Editor
FYFFE, Ala. — The Fyffe Red Devils shutout the Cleveland Panthers 63-0 in the first round of the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) Class 2A State Playoffs. The Fyffe Red Devils started their assault early on the Panthers scoring on a 52-yard stampede into the endzone by Payton Anderson, with 9:30 remaining in the first quarter. With 8:05 remaining in the first, the Red Devils cashed in on a Panther mishap. Cleveland punted from their endzone and dropped the snap. Wyatt Goodwin landed on the ball for the Red Devil score. Fyffe added more points to the board, on a 33-yard quarterback keeper by Zach Pryon. Anderson hauled in the 2-point conversion to give the Red Devils the 20-0 lead, with 5:47 remaining in the first. Anderson then bulldozed his way down the field for 52-yards and Pryon brought in the 2-point conversion to go up 28-0 with 3:25 left in the first. The Red Devils finished their first quarter scoring frenzy with a 12-yard touchdown run by Ike Rowell, giving the Red Devils the 28-0 advantage over Cleveland at the end of one. Malachi Mize started the Red Devil off, with 9:29 remaining in the second, on a 32-yard hustle. The PAT was good and Fyffe jumped to the 42-0 lead. Fyffe closed out the half with a 4-yard dash into the endzone by Jake Stone. The kick by eighth grader, Yahir Balcazar gave the Red Devils the 49-0 advantage going into intermission. The second half, featured a running clock and 8-minute quarters. With 4:50 remaining in the third quarter, Tyler Machen scored for the Red Devils, on a 65-yard touchdown run. The kick by Balcazar was good. With 7:03 remaining in the fourth, Will Stephens scored the last Red Devil touchdown , on a 35-yard run. The PAT by Balcazar was good. Fyffe held Cleveland to 43 total offensive yards. Anderson led the Red Devils with 132 yards and two touchdowns. Fyffe (11-0) will travel Friday to take on the Colbert County Indians (8-3).
FP FALLS IN FIRST ROUND Plainview falls in State Playoffs
By Marla Jones Sports Editor
The Fort Payne Wildcats fell in the first round of the state playoffs against Gardendale. (Marla Jones | Southern Torch)
By Amy Thrash, Sports Reporter FORT PAYNE, Ala. — The Gardendale Rockets defeated the Fort Payne Wildcats 21-14 in the first round of the Class 6A Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) playoffs last Friday night. In the first quarter with only 23 seconds into the game, Gardendale scored on a 66-yard touchdown run to give them the 7-0 lead. The Wildcats went three-and-out on their first possession. With 3:22 left in the first, the Rockets nailed a 37-yard field goal to make the score 10-0. In the second quarter, Gardendale nailed another field goal to bring the score to 13-0 with 8:27 remaining in the first half. Donald Winchester scored on a 7-yard run, the PAT was good by Alex McPherson to make the score 13-7 with 3:35 left in the second. To start the fourth, the Rockets scored from the 1-yard line, they went for 2 making the score 21-7 with 11:54 remaining in the game. Winchester scored on a 13-yard drive. The PAT was good to make the score 21-14 with 6:15 left in the fourth. The Wildcats defense forced a three-and-out to give the offense a chance to score but came up short. The Rockets ran the clock out to win the game 21-14. “This is a disappointing end to a good season,” said Head Coach Chris Elmore. “I’m proud of the kids for taking an 0-2 team to region champs. We had our chance against Gardendale but didn’t quite make enough plays to win the game.” Coach Elmore’s Offensive Player of the Week is Donald Winchester and the Defensive Player of the Week is Hunter Love.
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — The Plainview Bears fell to the Fultondale Wildcats, 37-6 in the first round of the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) Class 3A State Playoffs. The Wildcats struck early, scoring on an 18-yard touchdown with 9:18 remaining in the first quarter. The extra point attempt was good and Fultondale went up 7-0. With 6:18 remaining in the half, the Wildcats scored again on a 1-yard dart into the endzone. The kick was good, making the score 14-0. With 1:58 remaining in the second quarter, the Wildcats snuck in from 1-yard out The extra point was good, making the score 21-0. At the end of the first half, the Wildcats tacked on a field goal, to go into the half with the 24-0 advantage. Plainview scored on a
#12 Noah White scored the lone touchdown for Plainview against Fultondale. (Marla Jones | Southern Torch)
14-yard stampede into the endzone by Noah White, to make the score 24-6 with 5:52 remaining in the third quarter. The Wildcats answered back with 10:24 remaining in the fourth on a 16-yard rushing touchdown. The point after attempt was good. With 5:48 remaining on the time clock.
Fultondale added their final points on a 12-yard rushing touchdown, making the score 37-6. Drew Smith led the Plainview Bears with 29 rushing yards and 12 tackles for the night. The Broncos held the Plainview Bears to 132 total yards for the night.
FRIDAY — NOVEMBER 16, 2018
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
.
From the Field to the Court
PHOTO BY KRISTY GALLAGHER
Several teams have shifted from the football field to the basketball court. Here is a recap of the scores: (November 13) Plainview 57, Fyffe 56 (Girls), (November 13) Valley Head 88, Georgia School For the Deaf 43 (Boys)
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BULLDOGS TAME THE BRONCOS By Marla Jones Sports Editor
endzone. The PAT by Garcia was good and the Bulldogs went up 14-0. With 8:24 remaining in the first half, Thackerson once again found his way into the endzone, following a 12-play drive. After a roughing the kicker call against Holly Pond., Geraldine went for 2 and went up, 22-0. On their next possession, Holly Pond found the endzone on a 7-yard scamper with 3:40 remaining in the half. At the half, the Geraldine Bulldogs had the 22-6 advantage. Geraldine’s opening drive of the second half took about 5 minutes off the clock and ended with an Anthony Baldwin 5-yard touchdown run. PAT was
GERALDINE, Ala. — The Geraldine Bulldogs defeated the Holly Pond Broncos 29-14 to advance to the second round of the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) Class 3A State Playoffs. The Bulldogs scored first on a 35-yard pass connection from D J Graham to Kyle Thackerson. The PAT by Jose Garcia was good and the Bulldogs went up 7-0. On the Broncos next possession, they fumbled the handoff. Andrew Hall recovered the ball setting up a Thackerson 35-yard stampede into the
Bulldogs lasso the Broncos. (Marla Jones | Southern Torch)
good and the Bulldogs went up 29-6. Holly Pond scored in the last minute of the fourth, on a 4-yard dash into the endzone to make the final score, 29-14. Thackerson led the Bulldogs with 65 rushing
and 48 receiving yards. He scored three touchdowns for the night. This win gave the Bulldogs their first playoff win since 2012. The Geraldine Bulldogs (9-2) will host Randolph County (10-1) on Friday night.
SECOND ROUND BOUND Join us and these fine advertisers in congratulating Collinsville, Fyffe and Geraldine on advancing to the Second Round of the AHSAA State Playoffs!
TOWN OF GERALDINE BEST OF LUCK TO THE BULLDOGS IN THE PLAYOFFS! CHEERLEADERS, FOOTBALL, AND BAND!
LET'S GO COLLINSVILLE PANTHERS! Congratulations to the Geraldine Bulldogs! Telephone Banking 256-659-4800
Internet Banking www.LibertyBankAL.com
FAMILY FIRST MEDICINE WE LISTEN BECAUSE WE CARE!
Walk-in & Appointments, open 7 days a week! • (256) 638-9161 • X-Ray & Labs
P.O. Box 187 • 40956 AL Hwy 75 Geraldine, AL 35974 • 256.659.2175
Good Luck to ALL Area Teams!
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FRIDAY — NOVEMBER 16, 2018
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office
STATE OF
THE OFFICE
Basic Handgun
Awards
(pictured from right to left: Kizzy Jones, Sethe Greene, Josh York, Michael Edmondson, Tony Blackwell, Sheriff Jimmy Harris, Brad Edmondson and Seth Cagle) In 2017 and in 2018 DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Michael Edmondson was awarded Best Deputy of the Year from the Times Journal. The DeKalb County Sheriff Jimmy Harris was awarded the VFW’s Law Enforcement Officer Appreciation award in 2018 and an Appreciation award from the D.A.R.E program.
Shooter Safety Course
2017 StatiSticS Calls .........................................7,525 Reports taken ..........................2,669 Civil Papers Served ................ 4,156 Subpoenas Served .................... 875 Warrants Served .................... 1,742 Warrantless Arrests .....................439 Assists ......................................2,517 Search Warrants/Consents ..........40 Drug Cases .................................401 Total Patrol Miles ................565,416 Sex Offender Checks ................. 364 DARE Classes .............................136 Case Closure Rate .....................60%
The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office has continued with the Basic handgun shooter safety course. This course is designed to make new or inexperienced shooters have a better, safer shooting experience. The class will cover several areas including firearm safety, basic weapon operation, types of shooting, and fundamentals of shooting, target analysis, shooting drills, and current handgun laws in Alabama. This course will last approximately 4 hours and can be followed up with a trip to the firing range for an additional 2 hours of practical training.
Other Free Trainings Executed by the Sheriff’s Office
The Sheriff ’s Office implemented several other programs in 2017 -2018 including a defense class for realtors, School technology safety, Internet safety for schools and churches, Cell phone safety for parents, women’s defense class, and Run Hide fight to name a few. The Sheriff ’s Office has started a new program that teaches women about firearms and how to handle a firearm. All of these programs that the Sheriff ’s Office executes are free to the public.
2017 DtF StatiticS Drugs Seized: Marijuana (Including Spice) . 2,569 grams Methamphetamine .............. 2,563 grams Prescription Pills.......................5,255 pills Confiscated Items: Firearms ............................................... 49 Search Warrants Executed ........................ 32 Marijuana Plant .................................... 1,545 Clandestine Labs ........................................ 4 Investigations ...................................... 1,351 Arrests .................................................... 889
Church Security Program In 2017 and 2018 the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office implemented a Church Security Program. The Church Security Program was put on by Chief Deputy Michael Edmondson and Investigator Jake Fowler. In the last year they have went to approximately 60 Churches in DeKalb County. The purpose of this program is to assist Churches in setting up a security team for their Church, show them what they need to do in case something happens, show them how to secure the church, and they walk around and tell them on what they need to fix so the church is more secure.
Sheriff Announces Retirement in 2017
DeKalb County Sheriff Jimmy Harris announced that he would not be seeking reelection in August of 2017. An almost 3 decade career with the Sheriff ’s Office will come to a close in January, 2019. Sheriff Harris said, “It is my singular honor to serve the citizens of DeKalb County. While much has been accomplished by our Deputies, Clerks and Corrections Officers, much more remains to be done. I cannot thank each and every Deputy, Clerk and Correction Officer enough. They have made this job a joy. I look forward to continuing to serve our citizens for the remainder of my term.” Sheriff Harris has implemented all of these programs that were listed above in addition to so many other programs throughout his time at the Sheriff ’s Office. The Sheriff along with the Deputies, Investigators and employees of the Sheriff ’s Office has always put forth the effort to keep DeKalb County a safe place for the citizens to raise their families.