The Southern Torch — Vol. 4, Issue 6 by Southern Torch

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1411 Glenn Blvd SW, Fort Payne, AL 35967

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THE SOUTHERN TORCH / FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2018 / VOL. 4, NO. 6 / $1.00

>> THIS WEEK IN POLITICS

>> THIS WEEK IN SPORTS The JV Lady Eagles are State Champions

WATCH

>> THIS WEEK IN COMMUNITY

Candidates release statements after ballot challenge

Basketball In the Air

Students work with acclaimed actress

Two arrested after morning wreck

A van struck a parked vehicle and a utility pole in front of My Supply on Godfrey Avenue in Fort Payne. Both occupants were taken into police custody. (Contributed by Randell Ham)

By Marla Jones Reporter marla@southerntorch.com FORT PAYNE, Ala. — Two are in custody after crashing a minivan into a truck and then a utility pole on Godfrey Avenue last Friday in Fort Payne.

The incident occurred around 10:30 am. The van struck a truck that was parked in front of My Supply, located near the U.S. Post Office.

>> MORNING WRECK P2

Road Work Returning to Rainsville

The City of Rainsville will begin road work in the spring of 2018 due to expansion. (Marla Jones | Southern Torch)

(Photo by Kristy Galagher | Southern Torch)

By Saturday night, the fates of all DeKalb County Basketball Teams will have been decided. The Sub-Regional brackets will be settled and the tickets to the State Tournament will be one step closer to being punched. Check out our Sports section for full coverage in next week's issue of The Southern Torch!

Brooks statement on passage of spending deal By Staff Reports

FRIDAY 2/9

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SATURDAY 2/10

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SUNDAY 2/11

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Following passage tonight of yet another measure to both fund national security through the end of the fiscal year and fund the rest of the federal government through March 23, 2018, Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-05) issued the following statement: “The measure passed by the House tonight, with my supporting vote, increases full year national security spending by more than $50 billion, while limiting all other federal discretionary spending at last year’s

levels. As such, this legislation walks a narrow path between financial responsibility and adequate national security funding. “For emphasis, the path between adequate national security funding and avoiding a national insolvency is narrow. In that vein, President Obama’s Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Mike Mullen’s stated, ‘I think the biggest threat we have to our national security is our debt.’ Similarly, President Trump’s Secretary of Defense James Mattis echoed Admiral Mullen at

his confirmation hearing. Congress should heed defense expert warnings that unchecked government spending and a resulting national insolvency puts America’s national security and American lives at grave risk. “Tonight’s vote marks the fourth time the House has passed an increase to national security spending for FY 2018 – the first time was way back in September 2017. Unfortunately, Senate Democrats have repeatedly held national security

By Marla Jones Reporter marla@southerntorch.com RAINSVILLE, Ala. — (Full video on our website) The Rainsville City Council held their regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, February 5, 2018. Jeff McCurdy addressed the council, during the workshop on his bid for Circuit Judge. He assured the Council that if elected, he would work hard, be fair and follow the law. Mayor Rodger Lingerfelt presented to the Council a plan for a gravity sewer line expansion on Roy Sanderson Drive for a cost of $48,625.00. This expansion will be paid for through sewer funding. Lingefelt also mentioned the need to obtain a permit to start road work on the recently purchased land near the Wastewater Treatment Plant. Other road work within the City was discussed including paving Ranch Road to accommodate the expansion of Paragon Company. Two bids were submitted for the project with the winning bid going to Wiregrass Construction Company in the amount of $84,739.37. The Council had previously given the Mayor the authority to obtain prices from local contractors for the pavilion and stage construction project at the Field of Dreams. The stage construction contract was awarded to Kevin Keller, pending license and insurance checks, in the amount of $29,009.00. D & B Construction was awarded the contract for the pavilion construction in the amount of $41,805.00 pending state License and insurance checks.

>> RAINSVILLE COUNCIL P2

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

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FRIDAY–FEBRUARY 9, 2018

Morning wreck, page 1 One person was taken into custody at the scene, while the other fled, but was located shortly after by the Fort Payne Police Department. Neither were injured during the wreck. "I can't believe it didn't hurt them," said Alan Kilgo, owner of My Supply, who witnessed the wreck, along with Randell Ham. The wreck occurred right in front of the entrance to the business. Ham explained that the van hit the truck parked out

front and then hit the utility pole. Workers with the Fort Payne Improvement Authority (FPIA) had arrived on scene to assess the damage to the pole around 11 am. The worker inspecting the pole said that it would likely have to be replaced. The Fort Payne Police Department has not yet released the identity of the two in custody. We'll update later when there is a release.

124 McCurdy Ave S Rainsville, AL 35986 256-638-4FIT (4348) www.bodyvisionﬁtness.com

LEGAL

IN THE CHILD SUPPORT COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO. CS-2018-900002 NOTICE TO: UNKNOWN FATHER

Mo Brooks, page 1 funding hostage for illegal alien amnesty, financially irresponsible, massive increases in non-defense spending, and the like. Time will tell whether Senate Democrats care enough about America to walk that narrow path between adequate national security funding and national insolvency avoidance.” Key provisions in the House-passed legislation include: • Restrains non-defense government spending at the current Fiscal Year 2017 rate

full-year defense appropriation is $659 billion for Fiscal Year 2018, broken down to $584 billion as base defense funding and $75 billion for Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO) funding. • Raises military personnel pay by 2.4%.

UNKNOWN FATHER, whose whereabouts are unknown, must answer the Petition for Custody and other relief filed by Mother/Plaintiff, Guadalupe Pascual Pascual, by the 26th day of March, 2018, or, thereafter, a judgment by default may be rendered against him in Case No.: CS-18900002, in the District Court of DeKalb County, Alabama.

/s/ Gabriela Watson, Esq through March 23, 2018. • Increases national security spending by more than $50 billion. The

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Rainsville Kids left at home during burglary Council, page 1 The Council also passed an ordinance on its first reading allowing the change of a financing arrangement of a $2.8 million dollar loan from bank financing to USDA financing. Items approved during the meeting: •Hired Tara Wilkerson as part-time employee for $12 per hour •Approved to send Kelly Frazier to a clerk’s conference •Approved Fire Chief Willimac Wright to attend conference for asbestos training •Approved Police Chief

Husband and Wife Steven and Jessica Warren (37 and 33) were caught burglarizing Fyffe Unclaimed Storage early Saturday morning. After being arrested, their children were found walking down the road after waking up and their parents were not home. (DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office)

By Staff Reports FORT PAYNE, Ala. — According to the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office: On Saturday, February 3rd at approximately 5:30 am, deputies responded to a call of burglary at the Fyffe Unclaimed Storage of AL Hwy 75 in Fyffe. Deputies found a couple, Steven Warren, 37 of Shiloh and his wife Jessica Marie Tishaw Warren 33, behind the building with items taken from a storage container belonging to the business. Both subjects were arrested and charged with burglary 3rd and theft of property. Further investigation by

DeKalb County Investigators discovered that both subjects were involved in multiple burglaries of two other locations the same night. Both subjects face multiple felony charges including burglary and theft of property. The Warrens also face child endangerment and possible abandonment charges in a related case. DeKalb County Deputies and Fyffe Police responded to a 911 call of 3 small children walking up Tumlin Road in Shiloh unsupervised. The children told the reporting motorist that they had woke up and their parents were not in the house. The children stated they were scared and were trying to get to their grandmother’s

house. Two of the children ages 7 and 5 are the biological daughters of Steven Warren. The third child age 5 is the biological daughter of Jessica Tishaw Warren. The children were left home alone during the times that both subjects were out and neither of them advised the arresting officers that the children were home alone. In the early morning hours of Saturday February 3rd DeKalb County Deputies recovered a 2018 Ford Super Duty pickup that had been reported stolen from Dade County, GA. The vehicle was found at a residence on Bailey’s Chapel Road in Rainsville. No arrest have been made in connection to the vehicle but the investigation is still ongoing. DeKalb County Sheriff Jimmy Harris said, “If anyone has any information on the stole truck please call Dade County Sheriff’s Office or our office. Thank you to the motorist for staying with the children and watching over them until Deputies arrived.”

Kevin Smith to paint and equipment a portable command post vehicle for up to $1,000.00 •Approved for Julie May to work on City webpage at a cost of $2,000.00 •Approved purchase of portable pitching mounds at

the Field of Dreams The next regularly scheduled meeting will be changed to February 22, 2018 due to the President’s Day holiday. The workshop will begin at 4:15 and the regular meeting at 5:00 p.m.

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THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FRIDAY–FEBRUARY 9, 2018

COMMUNITY DAR presents Books UPCOMING EVENTS

The Hannah White Arnett Chapter of Daughters of American Revolution (DAR) presented forty-four books to Williams Avenue Elemantary School from the Alabama Roots Biography series, published in Alabama, related to Alabama's 200th anniversary celebration. Pictured Above (L to R, Top): Jennifer List, Vice-Principal; Deborah Bates, Linda Jones, Heath Shaddix, Principal; Dona Horton, Nira Jones, and Marian Doss, Vice-Regent. (L to R, n Bottom): Everett Horton, Kim Butler, librarian; Joyce Norton and Lindsay Davis.

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! February 10, Book Signing with Anna Pociask Davis - The Henagar Library is so excited about our upcoming book signing with Anna Pociask Davis! Her book, The Pilgrimage of Divorce, is a must for anyone who has experienced divorce or faced a separation . Anna helps to bring positivity to the surface with this book and has helped lift so many through her journey and sharing her personal emotions. We are so honored

Students work with acclaimed actress Stevenson I Centre I Scottsboro I Higdon I Leesburg Rainsville I North Ft. Payne I South Ft. Payne

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Nationally acclaimed actress Sandra Lafferty with DeKalb County Fine Arts Teacher Sara Argiro and DeKalb County Drama students. (Tyler Pruett | Southern Torch)

By Tyler Pruett Managing Editor tyler@southerntorch.com RAINSVILLE, Ala. — On Tuesday, drama students from all over DeKalb County had a chance to work with and receive pointers from a nationally acclaimed actress! Sandra Lafferty held two classes for DeKalb County Fine Arts students in the Elementary Library at Plainview School. The classes are part of the Mentone Arts & Cultural Center’s (MACC) community outreach program, which got underway in November. Lafferty, who has more than 60 television and films credits including, The Hunger Games (Greasy Sae) and Walk the Line (Maybelle Carter), is serving as the center’s Artist in Residence of Theatre and Film. She began her career in theatre before ultimately moving to Los Angeles. “I let them ask a lot of questions. They had questions like the difference between film and theatre. Some of them would like to go in to that as a profession, so they wanted to know how to break in it and what schools to go. Of course, they had a lot of questions about Hunger Games,” said Lafferty, with a laugh. Lafferty did a performance for the students, and the students in turn did a performance for her. “I did a piece called a, ‘a triplets;’ it’s a scene from a

comedy that I’ve done for years and years. I played Addy the Hairdresser, which is very much a southern woman in a little town. That’s one of the pieces I’ve done, and you usually do contrasting pieces in theatre auditions, so I do that and I do a Shakespearean piece,” she said. The students were from schools throughout the DeKalb County System, and take the drama course through the Technology Center. They performed a scene from D.M. Larson’s, “Make Me a Vampire.” In the scene, a human that is living in a world of mostly vampires, begs to be bitten and transformed to be like everyone else. This is the first year for the DeKalb County Fine Arts program and the new Drama course. “The concept is amazing. They are bussing kids in from Collinsville, Valley Head, from all over,” said Lafferty. Teacher Sara Argiro is the head of the program, and started the new program from the successful, “Plainview Bear Theatre;” to bring top notch drama instruction to all of DeKalb County. “Last year, Dr. (Jason) Barnett said, ‘I really like what you are doing out at Plainview, can we do something to make it county wide?’ And I said, ‘Let’s do it!’ So Bear Theatre has now grown into DeKalb County Fine Arts. So the kids can sign up just the same as they would any tech school class, and they are bussed up here to learn acting,” said Argiro.

The students will have two major performances this spring. The Spring Showcase will be held on March 22nd at the Plowshares Bistro in Mentone. The students will be performing two plays: “Us and Them,” by David Campton and “The Insanity of Mary Girard,” by Lanie Robertson. On May 4th & 5th the students will be presenting their spring musical: “Disney’s Aladdin Dual Language Edition.” The event venue is to be determined. The DeKalb County Fine Arts Academy (DCFAA) is also looking for help with their upcoming productions. Individuals and business can help sponsor the productions and be listed in the program for their Spring Musical Production of, “Aladdin.” Support levels: Donor- $10 Sponsor – $25 (2 general admission tickets to Aladdin) Partner – $50 (2 reserved seats for Aladdin) Patron – $100 (4 reserved seats to Aladdin) Celebrity Patron – $500 (4 reserved seats to Aladdin & to our fall 2018 play) Royal Patron – $1000 (4 reserved seats to Aladdin & to our fall play PLUS listed in the director’s live thank you speech before each performance) If you or your business is interested in sponsoring DCFAA performances, contact Sara Argiro at saargiro@ dekalbk12.org.

Staff: Eloise Smith, Business Manager

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

Tyler Pruett, Managing Editor Marla Jones, Sports Editor

THE FISHERMEN SOUTHERN GOSPEL QUARTET

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

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to have this wonderful Christian author at our Library and to share her uplifting book. Book signing will be Saturday Feb 10th from 10am until 12 noon. Please mark your calendar and make a special effort to meet Anna and help support our library! February 11, Church Singing at Salem - A singing will be held at Salem Methodist Church in Geraldine on Sunday, February 11 at 6pm. Point of Honor will be the special guest singers. All are welcome!

February 15, Made In DeKalb - The annual Made In Dekalb expo will be held on February 15 from 8:30am to 3pm. Business representatives will have the opportunity to network with peers, representatives from education, commerce and business, the USDA, and many more! Students (9th-12th) from DeKalb County and Fort Payne Schools will have the opportunity to learn about local business career options and about DeKalb County's 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. February 17, Rainsville Holiness Vendor Sale - The Rainsville Holiness Church will be hosting a vendor sale on Saturday, February 17 from 9am to 3pm. They are located on Trinity Lane between Rainsville Funeral Home and Cabletime. There are several local vendors setting up with a huge variety of items!

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THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FRIDAY–FEBRUARY 9, 2018

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DEATH NOTICES BURT James Waldo Richardson - 92 of Fort Payne, passed away on Sunday, February 4 at Erlanger Hospital. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 6 from 4pm to 8pm at Burt Chapel-Fort Payne. Funeral services are set for Wednesday, February 7 at 1pm at Burt Chapel-Fort Payne with Rev. John Keefe officiating. Burial will follow in Glenwood Cemetery.

CORNER STONE Shirley Ann Kutas - 56 of Section, passed away on Thursday, February 1 at her son’s residence. Her family will hold services in Calhoun, Ga. at a later date. Arnold Johnson - 67 of Flat Rock, passed away on Thursday, February 1 at his residence. The family will receive friends from 4pm to 8pm on Saturday, February 3 and from 11am until service time on Sunday, February 4 at

the funeral home. Funeral services are set for Sunday, February 4 at 2pm CT at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel with Bro. Clarence Hodge and Bro. Charles Smith officiating. Burial will follow in Overlook Cemetery. Wanda Watkins Necev - 75 of Ider, passed away on Sunday, February 4 at DeKalb Regional Medical Center. The family will receive friends from 3pm to service time on Tuesday, February 6 at the funeral home. A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, February 6 at 6pm CT at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel with Bro. Darrel Watkins officiating.

GERALDINE Jewell Barksdale - 103 of Crossville, passed away on Monday, February 5 at Crossville Health Care. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 6 from 11am until service time at the funeral home. Funeral services are set for Tuesday, February 6 at 2pm at Geraldine Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Zach Richards officiating. Burial will follow in DeKalb Memorial Gardens.

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Glenda Wheeler - 71 of Pisgah, passed away on Friday, February 2 at Crestwood Hospital. The family will receive friends on Sunday, February 4 from 5pm to 8pm at Kerby Funeral

Home and Monday, February 5 from noon to 1pm at Pisgah Baptist Church. Funeral services are set for Monday, February 5 at 1pm at Pisgah Baptist Church with Rev. Terry Gant officiating. Burial will follow in the adjoining cemetery.

RAINSVILLE Wayne Reeves - 63 of Fort Payne, passed away on Saturday, February 3 at DeKalb Regional Medical Center. Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 8 from 10am until 1:30pm at the funeral home. A graveside service will be held on Thursday, February 8 at 2pm at Green’s Chapel Cemetery with Rev. Earnest Corbitt and Rev. Randy Salisbury officiating. Burial will follow in the cemetery. Harold Kneeves - 80 of Henagar, passed away on Saturday, February 3 at his residence. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 17 at 1pm at his home. Merle Teat - 76 of Rainsville, passed away on Monday, February 5 at Cloverdale Rehabilitation. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 7 from 5pm to 8pm and on Thursday, February 8 from noon until 2pm at the funeral home. Funeral services are set for Thursday, February 8 at 2pm at Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel with Bros. Chris Bell, Gary Haymon, and David

Moore officiating. Burial will follow in Kirk Memorial Gardens.

WILSON Joan Wisner - 79 of Fort Payne, passed away on Thursday, February 1. The family will receive friends on Friday, February 2 from 4pm to 7pm at the funeral home. Funeral services are set for 2pm on Saturday, February 3 at Wilson Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Glenwood Cemetery. Judy Cunningham Hearn - 75 of Trenton, Ga., formerly of Fort Payne, passed away on Friday, February 2. The family will receive friends on Saturday, February 3 from 3pm to 6pm at the funeral home. Funeral services are set for 2pm on Sunday, February 4 at Wilson Funeral Chapel with Rev. Thomas Bearded and Bro. Dee Bethune officiating. Burial will follow in Walkers Chapel Cemetery. Don Smith - 82 of Fort Payne, passed away on Friday, February 2. A graveside service will be held at 11am on Saturday, February 10 in Glenwood Cemetery.

WT WILSON Amanda Burchfield - 33 of Albertville, passed away on Friday, February 2. The family will receive friends from noon until 2pm on Thursday, February 8 at Church of God of Union Assembly in Albertville. Funeral services are set for 2pm on Thursday, February 8 at the church with Bro. Franklin Cookston and Bro. Winston Barnett officiating. Burial will follow in Wynnville Cemetery in Snead. Frankie Spence - 88 of Geraldine, passed away on Friday, February 2. The family will receive friends from 2pm to 4pm on Sunday, February 4 at Geraldine First Baptist Church. Funeral services are set for 4pm on Sunday, February 4 at the church with Bros. Charles Jones and Andy Brown officiating. Burial will follow in Hopewell Cemetery.

Cecil Wilks - 83 of Rainsville, passed away on Friday, February 2. The family will receive friends from 5pm to 8pm on Saturday, February 3 at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel. Funeral services are set for 1pm on Sunday, February 4 at Mountain View Memory Gardens with entombment to follow. Frank Martin - 48 of Section, passed away on Monday, February 5. The family will receive friends from 5pm to 8pm on Wednesday, February 7 at the funeral home. Funeral services are set for 3pm on Thursday, February 8 at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel with Bro. Chris Gilbert officiating.

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FRIDAY–FEBRUARY 9, 2018

Loomis Bros Circus Whole Backstage seeks returned to Rainsville new Executive Director

(The Whole Backstage Theatre)

By Tyler Pruett Managing Editor tyler@southerntorch.com

The Loomis Brothers Circus returned to Rainsville this week with several great shows! Our own Sports Editor, Marla Jones, and advertising representative Amy Thrash got to ride the elephant and emcee the 7:30pm show for the second year in row!

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GUNTERSVILLE, Ala. — The Whole Backstage community theatre in Guntersville is now accepting applications for a full-time employee as an Executive Director. This leader position will take responsibility for engaging our community, patrons, board of directors, donors, and other volunteers in promoting and delivering a quality community theatre experience, while ensuring financial stability and security. Reporting to the WBS Executive Board of Directors, the ED will direct and oversee all functions of this non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. Some responsibilities include, but are not limited to: overseeing daily operational and financial management functions and budgets of WBS; working

Know your

neighbor?

M. Chris Kuykendall

1827 Gault Ave. North Fort Payne, AL 35967 Bus 256 845-4934 chris.kuykendall.b17y@statefarm.com

I’M THERE

with productions, committees, supervising staff, negotiation and execution of contracts; leading annual development, fundraising, corporate partnerships, sponsorships and capital campaign programs; engaging in public relations, communication, education, and outreach functions; supervising maintenance of facilities and equipment with safety and security measures; evaluating and implementing the overall mission of the organization, setting goals, and developing the annual strategic planning process; providing administrative leadership support for the staff, Board, committees; attending all Board meetings, and committee meetings as requested. Qualifications for the Executive Director require excellent organizational, fiscal and personnel management, fundraising, community relations skills, and volunteer management skills; Bachelor’s degree preferred, five or more years of relevant leadership experience, with broad knowledge and skills in leadership and management of non-profit arts organizations; community theatre involvement

preferred; experience working with a Board of Directors in a non-profit setting; ability to represent the WBS in various settings; demonstrate excellent public speaking and presentation skills. In technology, the ED must have excellent computer skills, including facility with Microsoft Office suite, QuickBooks, and other organizational management software and database tools including website maintenance, with preference to candidates with social media experience. The ED must demonstrate love of theatre and strong commitment to the mission and goals of WBS, along with a commitment to diversity and inclusion. The annual salary range is $45,000 - $55,000. For more information, visit the WBS website: www. wholebackstage.com. The Whole Backstage is an equal opportunity provider. Qualified applicants may send a cover letter and resume to executivedir@ wholebackstage.com by March 10th, 2018 for consideration.

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THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FRIDAY–FEBRUARY 9, 2018

POLITICS Candidates release statements Scofield's Proposal to expand broadband passes Senate after ballot challenge

("Broadband Network" | Wikimedia.org) By Staff Reports Candidate for DeKalb County Sheriff Michael Edmondson released a statement, accusing his opponent Nick Welden of trying to keep him off the Republican ballot. Welden responded this afternoon. (Tyler Pruett | Southern Torch)

By Tyler Pruett Managing Editor tyler@southerntorch.com FORT PAYNE, Ala. — Last Thursday night (February 1, 2018), the DeKalb County GOP Executive Committee met for a hearing regarding seven letters submitted challenging declared candidate for DeKalb County Sheriff Michael Edmondson’s qualification to appear on the ballot. While the content of the letters in question were not released, Edmondson said that the letters were accusing him of, “being unfit to serve the people of DeKalb County as Sheriff based solely on my 18 years of experience in the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office.” Before submitting the letters, those who offered the challenge were told it would be anonymous. After a brief meeting between the Executive Committee and Edmondson’s campaign, it was announced that the challengers would also have to face the committee. With around 40 Edmondson supporters (many whom work at the Sheriff’s Office) crowded around the entrance to GOP Headquarters, no challengers came to face the committee. Last Friday, Edmondson released a statement on the challenge, and accused his opponent: “Although I wasn’t permitted to read the letters presented against me, I was told that none of the letters challenged my integrity, my faith, or any of my conservative values. These seven men accused me of being unfit to

Contributed by Steve Flowers AL Political Columnist MONTGOMERY, Ala. — A few weeks back my column illuminated the career and influence attained by our senior U.S. Senator Richard Shelby. In the column and in my book, “Six Decades of Alabama Political Stories,” I reference the fact that our current senior senator will be regarded as one of Alabama’s greatest U.S. Senators. I consider Lister Hill, John Sparkman, and Richard Shelby in that triumvirate. However, history more than likely will reveal that Shelby is eclipsing Hill and Sparkman in the annals of senatorial lore. Shelby is chairman of the Senate Rules Committee. In his illustrious 31-year tenure in the Senate he has chaired the Senate Intelligence Committee and the Senate Banking Committee, which in

serve the people of DeKalb County as Sheriff based solely on my 18 years of experience in the DeKalb County Sheriff’s office. I took a number of questions from the Candidate Committee and answered them to the best of my ability. These seven men had the same opportunity to appear before the committee last night to speak to their accusations against me. Not one of the seven showed up. The Committee voted in favor of me and I will be on the ballot for Sheriff of DeKalb County in the Republican Primary on June 5th. If my opponent was not behind this attack to deny DeKalb Countians their right to choose, then he should disassociate himself from these supporters of his. I want to thank the people that stood with me last night and the countless friends and supporters that were there willing to speak to my character. That means more to me and my family than they’ll ever know.“ On Sunday, Nick Welden issued a response to this accusation: “The last few days have been a roller coaster of questions and accusations made towards me and my campaign. My opponent accused me of being behind letters contesting him being allowed to run as a Republican candidate for Sheriff of DeKalb County and not allowing citizens to vote the way they want. He was quick to take a cheap shot at me only to try

and gain sympathy support and paint me a villain! I was NOT behind any letters or attempt to stop him from running. As a matter of fact I personally asked members of the qualifying committee and the chairman to allow him to run so this wouldn’t turn into an old political trick as it so did! I was told by the committee and chairman they would do what was best for the party and I had no say so! If you were one who was quick to judge and condone another’s accusations, then I am sorry you fell into that trap that was apparently planned out. I have simply tried to run a truthful, professional and honest campaign and I ask of you to open your eyes and see the tactics that were just deployed against me! I am a simple and God-fearing family man that is only trying to stand up for what is right. I do not have a full fledged campaign team or a campaign manager that plans these types of attempts or accusations to try and turn things around or create drama that is uncalled for; I simply try to do what’s right and will continue to! I pray for these folks and for all who will read this or was quick to judge an accusation that was meant to do harm! I stand strong for everything that is right and GODLY but the reason I’m being falsely accused and attacked is that I stand UP to see corruption FALL! God Bless you ALL! Sincerely, Nick Welden"

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – This afternoon the Alabama State Senate took a major step toward broadband expansion in rural Alabama by passing Senator Clay Scofield’s (R-Guntersville) Alabama Rural Broadband Act. Senate Bill 149 is a free-market approach to increasing private investment to expand high-speed internet access across the state. “In the 1930s the infrastructure challenge was electricity, and in the 60s and 70s it was ensuring rural areas had clean drinking water. Expanding access to broadband internet is the infrastructure challenge of our day. We must ensure that all Alabamians have an opportunity to succeed in the digital economy,” Scofield said. “Currently, thousands of families and businesses in rural Alabama are without access to fast broadband. That’s unconscionable,” he said. SB149 provides a 10% investment tax credit and sales and use tax exemptions for companies that build qualified broadband telecommunications network facilities in underserved areas of Alabama. The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs and a legislative oversight committee are tasked with overseeing implementation of the legislation. All of the incentives will expire in five years, unless renewed by the state legislature. “Students, families, and business owners in rural

Alabama desperately need fast broadband internet,” Senate Majority Leader Greg Reed (R-Jasper) said. “Senate Republicans are committed to making sure that all of Alabama thrives as our state economy continues to grow. I commend Sen. Scofield for his able leadership in moving this legislation forward.” The World Bank commissioned a study in 2015 that showed a 10% increase in broadband penetration could increase economic growth by 1.2%. It also stated that

doubling broadband speeds can add 0.3% to GDP growth. “Seventy years ago, co-ops and private companies invested in bringing electricity to the country, improving life and creating jobs for millions. It’s my hope that this legislation will spur the same expansion with the internet to all those same households and businesses,” Scofield remarked. Scofield’s bill now moves to the Alabama House of Representatives for consideration.

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Inside the Statehouse itself parallels the achievements of Hill and Sparkman. However, Richard Shelby is next in line to take over the powerful Senate Appropriations Committee. Therefore, it is almost comical that a few right-wing fringe members of the state Republican Party along with some kook from Texas are promising some resolution to censure Senator Shelby for not voting for Roy Moore in last year’s election. If these folks had even walking around political sense they would be promoting a ticker tape parade for Shelby. I would suggest that Richard Shelby could care less what some members of the Alabama Republican Party say about his vote in the recent election. Members of political party organizations have an inflated opinion of their influence in politics and public policy. Being a member of a state political party has no more effect on politics than being president of the

local Civitan Club. Their primary function is to set the Primary dates. Therefore, when these political party operatives get together to debate this benign resolution on February 24, they may imagine that it matters what they do. However, you can be assured that nobody cares, much less Shelby. Resolutions passed in political party gatherings have no effect or relevance. It is very doubtful that this proposed resolution will see the light of day. Most people who are political party operatives are logical folks and would not want to offend or insult Senator Shelby. He is the Republican Party of Alabama in the eyes of the nation. If it were to pass, he would graciously ignore it and hold no grudges. When Kay Ivey became governor last year, the first thing she did was to reverse the decision of Governor Robert Bentley on the date of the election for Jeff Sessions’

senate seat. Bentley had set it for this year when everything runs anyway. Ivey decided that it should be held forthwith and that a Special Election would be in 2017. However, this Special Election costs the beleaguered State General Fund $11 million. If it were held this year it would have cost the state zero – we were voting anyway. This $11 million is nothing to sneeze at when it comes to state revenue. This aspect caught the eye of House Ways and Means

chairman, Steve Clouse, R-Ozark. Clouse, who is a wise steward of the state’s coffers, and is tasked with balancing the budget, has set out to rectify and clarify when any future election for a Senate Seat shall be held. He has offered a bill to set the dates and clarify “forthwith.” Clouse’s Bill says that the election will be held at the next General election. His legislation has already passed the House and is awaiting action in the State Senate. Steve Clouse is a popular

Wiregrass legislator who epitomizes integrity and espouses fiscal conservatism. While speaking of popularity in the Wiregrass, Governor Kay Ivey did a good day’s work when she picked Dothan Circuit Judge, Brad Mendheim, to fill the vacancy on the State Supreme Court. It is appropriate that she appointed Mendheim, a Wiregrass judge, to fill the seat of Justice Glen Murdock, another Wiregrass native. I have never seen or heard of anybody more respected in their hometown than 51-year-old Brad Mendheim is in Dothan. He was born and raised in Houston County and has been a Circuit Judge for 10 years. He is a deacon in the First Baptist Church of Dothan. He graduated in a stellar class that included Dr. Russ Holman, who is one of the most prominent radiologist in the state. See you next week.

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FRIDAY–FEBRUARY 9, 2018

State Champions! The Cornerstone Christian Academy JV Lady Eagles won their first state championship

The Cornerstone Christian Academy JV Lady Eagles recently won the state championship. (Submitted Photo)

By Staff Reports Undefeated State Champions. It’s not often that you hear of a team finishing their regular season with a perfect record, especially in basketball. Typically a team will have a blemish or two on their resume as post-season play begins. The Lady Eagles were anything but typical, winning every game by double digits except for two games. Cornerstone finished with a 14-0 record and the No. 1 seed going into the state tournament. CCA would travel to Jemison, AL to face the Chilton Christian Academy Lady Patriots in the semifinals. Chilton was the host school of the tournament and the No. 4 seed. This would be a home game for the Lady Patriots. It was hard to tell as the CCA fans along with the Marshall Christian fans & players had the gym sounding like the Eagles Nest! Marshall had just defeated Victory – Columbus in the first Div 1 Semifinal. Even with all this positive energy Chilton appeared to have Cornerstone’s number from the tip. Chilton’s press had CCA confused and kept Cornerstone from getting their offense going. Add in some turnovers the Lady Eagles found themselves in a 1st quarter dogfight. After a CCA timeout with 4:44 left Shelby Harrison and Sydnee

Griffith finally got CCA on the board with two jumpers. At the start of the 2nd CCA finally broke the press and got the ball into the paint. Darby Culpepper scored twice and went 2-4 from the line. After being fouled twice Emily Couch added two points from the charity stripe. Griffith added three more points giving CCA a 15-8 lead going into the break.

Laura Beth Wells came out hot in the 3rd scoring all of her eight points from the floor while CCA held Chilton to just four total points. Culpepper added two more points giving her eight for the game tying her with Wells. The Lady Eagles led the Lady Patriots 25-12 going into the 4th. The Lady Patriots managed to add four points in

Tournament MVP Jesi Farris and Sydnee Griffith All-Tournament team member.

Hunter of the Week

This week's Southern Torch Hunter of the Week is Griffin Turner! He is a fifth grader at Sylvania School. He bagged this buck on a recent hunt. Submit your photos to marla@southerntorch.com to be the next Southern Torch Hunter of the Week!

the final frame, but Cornerstone pushed their lead to 14 as Harrison added two more points and Jaci Bell knocked down a three. Cornerstone’s defense proved to be too much as the Lady Eagles defeated the Lady Patriots 30-16 in the 2nd Div 1 Semifinal setting up an all ACAA Divi 1 Region A final between Cornerstone and Marshall Christian.

Crowning A Champion After Conecuh Springs defeated Adullam House for the Div 2 championship the CCA Lady Eagles and Marshall Christian Academy Lady Stallions faced off for the Div. 1 title. Marshall controlled the tip and each team forced a turn over. After a jump ball changed possession CCA brought the ball down and Laura Beth Wells found Jesi Farris for a corner three. The Lady Stallions turned the ball over on a backcourt violation and Erica Couch answered with a jumper from the FT line putting CCA up 5-0. Kinsley Henderson put Marshall on the board with a layup making it 5-2 with 3:30 left in the 1st. CCA turned the ball over and Marshall’s Dasey Motes made it 5-3 with 2:36 to go. This would be the closest that the Lady Stallions would get to the Lady Eagles as Jaci Bell hit from three pushing the lead to five for Cornerstone. Both teams traded turnovers until Shelby Harrison found Farris in the opposite corner for another three. Marshall called time out with 1:30 to go in the 1st. Bell added another three from the top of the key on Cornerstone’s next possession. CCA ended the 1st on a 9-0 run and led 14-3 at the start of the 2nd. Sydnee Griffith nailed a jumper on Cornerstone’s first offensive possession of the 2nd quarter. Henderson then added two more points for

Marshall on their next trip down the court. Both teams traded turnovers again, until Emily Couch hit a short jumper and Farris went 1-2 from the line making it 19-5. With 1:10 left till halftime Cathryn Lynn added two points for Marshall. Griffith then went 1-2 from the line with less than 10 seconds to go in the 2nd and CCA led 20-7. Cornerstone held Marshall scoreless in the 3rd and pushed their lead to 19 behind Bell, Culpepper and Wells adding two points each. The Lady Eagles added another 12 points in the fourth as Bell and Emily Couch added four points each. Katie Wagner and Reagan Gatewood contributed to CCA’s score in the 4th, both adding two points each. Henderson scored four of her team high eight points for Marshall in the fourth. The Lady Eagles defeated the Lady Stallions 38-11 and won the 2018 ACAA Division 1 Championship. Jesi Farris was named Tournament MVP while Sydnee Griffith and Kinsley Henderson were both named to the All-Tournament team.

Cornerstone Varsity The CCA Varsity Girls and Boys will both be playing against Marshall Christian in the ACAA Varsity Basketball Sub State on Thursday the 8th at Marshall Christian. Girls tip at 5 pm followed by the boys. If the girls win they advance to the semi-finals, if the boys win they will advance to the quarterfinals.

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FRIDAY–FEBRUARY 9, 2018

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The Story So Far...

The Cornerstone Christian Academy JV Lady Eagles recently won the state championship. (Submitted Photo)

By Marla Jones Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com DEKALB CO., Ala.— Area tournament play began across the County this week, to basketball fans delight. Girls Matchups: Geraldine is hosting the Class 3A, Area 13 Varsity Girls tournament. The first game of the bracket, New Hope vs. Brindlee Mountain was played on February 5, 2018. Brindlee Mountain defeated New Hope, 41-36 and will face Geraldine Lady Bulldogs on

February 8, 2018 at 5:30. Pisgah was host to the Class 3A, Area 14 Tournament Varsity Girls tournament. Pisgah faced Sylvania on February 5, 2018. The Eagles defeated the Rams, 76-44 to advance to the final game. The second game of the bracket was between North Sand Mountain and the Plainview Bears. The Bisons defeated the Bears 75-61 to advance to final area game. The Pisgah Eagles and the North Sand Mountain Bisons will battle for the Class 14 area winner on February 8,

2018, beginning at 7:00 p.m. The first night of the Class 1A, Area 14 game between Valley Head Lady Tigers and Gaylesville Trojans was held at Cedar Bluff. The Valley Head Lady Tigers defeated Galesville, 63-47 to advance to the final game against Skyline. On February 8, 2018 at Skyline beginning at 6:00 p.m. The Fort Payne Lady Wildcats traveled to Brewer to take on Cullman,February 5, 2018 in Class 6A, Area 14 play. Fort Payne fell to Cullman, 62-50. Collinsville Lady

Panthers is hosting the Class 2A, Area 12 Tournament. The Lady Panthers defeated Westbrook Christian 69-39 to advance to the area finale against Sand Rock on February 9, 2018 at 6:00 p.m. The Fyffe Lady Red Devils is hosting the Class 2A, Area 15. In the first game of area play, the Section Lions defeated the Ider Lady Hornets, 49-31. In the second game of the tournament, the Lady Red Devils defeated the Asbury Rams, 59-38. Fyffe and Section will battle to be the Area 15 winner on February 8, 2018 at 7:00 p.m.

In Class 5A, Area 14, the Scottsboro Wildcats defeated the Crossville Lady Lions, 51-17. Boys Matchups: In Class 2A, Area 12 , Collinsville will face Gaston on February 8, 2018 beginning at 5:30 p.m. The winner will face Sand Rock on February 10, 2018, beginning at 6:00 p.m. to determine area champions. Geraldine will host New Hope on February 8, 2018 beginning at 7:00 to determine the winner of Class 3A, Area 13 play. In Class 3A, Area 14 play,

Plainview Bears defeated North Sand Mountain 92-57, to advance to the final area game. Pisgah defeated Sylvania 70-59, and will face the Plainview Bears on February 9, 2018 at 7:00 p.m. In Class 1A, Area 14 play is hosted by Cedar Bluff. Valley Head defeated Gaylesville 60-34 to advance to the final game against Cedar Bluff on February 8, 2018 at 6:00 pm. In Class 5A, Area 14 play, Crossville was defeated by Guntersville, 94-40.

ACE kicks off competition cheer

The Timberwolves Back row: Lillie Freeman, Lizzie Black, Emma Campbell Crawford, Emma Jones, Kennedy Brown, Maly Kate Long, Sadie Smith. Middle row: Carlyle Flannigan, Taegan Meredith, Marissa Gray, Laura Beth Farmer, Kamber Dukes, Kate Guice. Sitting: Lizzi Kate Wilson, Taegan Whitmire

The Dakotas Back row: Olivia Smith, Jaiden Hatch, Kinnsley Travis. Middle row: Maggie Oliver, Evey Pike, Jaide Hardeman. Bottom: Katie Beth Woods, Crimson Thornberry, Ellie Brown

Ace of Rainsville kicked off their competitive cheer season this past weekend on Feb 3rd in Birmingham, Ala. at the Bama Bash Event. Ace of Rainsville’s newest team the Dakotas, a level 1 team, won first place. The Timberwolves, a level 2 team, won 1st place, Grand Champions and a full paid bid to compete in the North American Spirit Tournament held in April. Both teams received zero deductions last weekend for their performances. They are super proud of the girls for their hard work and dedication and thankful for our coaches/owner. Looking forward to another great year at ACE.

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FRIDAY–FEBRUARY 9, 2018

National Signing Day has traditionally been the first day that a high school senior can sign a binding National Letter of Intent for a collegiate sport. It usually takes place on the first Wednesday of February. We would like to congratulate all of these athletes for continuing to pursue their sports goals beyond high school!

Fyffe Athletics held a signing ceremony for Red Devil, standout, Cole Lyles. Lyles signed to further his football career at Bethel University. Bethel is located in McKenzie, Tennessee. On the left, he pictured with his parents, Tina and Jon Lyles. On the right, he is shown with his parents and the Fyffe coaching staff.

Ethan Dover, pictured his mother, Wendy Wheeler, and his father, Jody Dover.

Lucas Hall, pictured with his parents, John and Samantha Johnson.

In a joint ceremony, two standout athletes from Sylvania High School committed to continue their football career at Tennessee Valley Prep Academy in Huntsville, Alabama.

Congratulations to All Area Teams! www.pibonline.com Fyffe • Powell • Sylvania • Boaz • Scottsboro • Hokes Bluff • Douglas • Steele • Gurley

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FRIDAY–FEBRUARY 9, 2018

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