The Southern Torch — Volume 5, Issue 12

SPRING INTO A GREAT DEAL AT TWIN CITY! 1411 Glenn Blvd SW, Fort Payne, AL 35967

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THE SOUTHERN TORCH / FRIDAY, MARCH 22, 2019 / VOL. 5, NO. 12 / $1.00

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By Marla Jones Managing Editor

marla@southerntorch.com FORT PAYNE, Ala. — The Fort Payne City Council held their regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, March 19.

Reverend John Mathieu, opened the meeting with prayer. Mathieu recently retired as Pastor of Grace Prebysterian Church. Mayor Larry Chesser presented Mathieu with a Proclamation from the City honoring him for his service. “He is involved in the community, the church and all those activities, jail ministry and has become a valued member of our community� stated Chesser. “We love this community. It is a wonderful and beautiful place to live. A community that loves well and supports people well.� said Mathieu.

Erin Franklin of the Muscular Dystrophy Association presented Fort Payne Fire Chief Ron Saferite with a plaque for the fire departments

> FORT PAYNE, P2

By Marla Jones Managing Editor

PAYNE

marla@southerntorch.com DeKALB COUNTY, Ala. — On Monday, Christopher Madison, 33, appeared in DeKalb County District Court after being charged with capital murder in the death of 11-year-old Amberly Barnett.

Madison was arrested and charged with capital murder earlier this month and is being held without bond.

The strangled body of Amberly Barnett was found 200 yards behind the defendant’s home. Court testimony revealed by Chief Investigator David Davis of the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office that Madison had pretended to search for Barnett’s body after she was reported missing.

On March 1, Barnett stayed home alone while her aunt and aunt’s boyfriend went to Walmart in Centre. The couple was back within an hour and a half, but Barnett was missing from the home.

Madison, who lived on the adjoining property, told

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Christopher Madison, 33, appeared in DeKalb County District Court on Monday after being charged with capital murder. (DeKalb County Sheriff's Office)

the family that he saw a Dodge Durango in the home’s driveway, but no neighbors were able to corroborate his story. He went on to say that he had checked in the woods behind the home, but found nothing.

According to testimony by Davis, search and rescue dogs picked up Barnett’s scent at the back door of Madison’s home.

The body of Amberly Barnett was found with a rope, the same type of rope found at Madison’s home, tied around her neck.

After a search warrant was obtained, investigators found items pertaining to Madison’s interest in bondage in his home.

Inside the home, blood was found on the bedroom walls, mattress, bed frame, bathroom sink and a sheet of paper. Also found was a bloody pair of Madison’s jeans in the clothes dryer.

DeKalb County District Judge Steve Whitmire ruled in the preliminary hearing that there was probable cause for the capital murder charge against Madison.

If convicted, Madison will face the death penalty or life in prison.

On Thursday at approximately 2:30am, a Norfolk Southern train engine struck a 2011 Nissan Rogue at the crossing of 55th Street NE and Gault Avenue N. (Photos exclusive to Southern Torch)

By Marla Jones, Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com FORT PAYNE, Ala. — Early on Thursday morning, a Norfolk Southern train engine collided with a 2011 Nissan Rogue at approximately 2:30am. The vehicle was struck at the railroad crossing in the area of 55th Street NE and Gault Avenue North.

Witnesses stated the vehicle ran off the roadway and became lodged in the tracks.

The occupants were outside the vehicle at the time of the incident, and attempted to flag down the train to stop as it was approaching.

According to Fort Payne Police Chief Randy Bynum, there were no injuries reported. The investigations into the wreck will continue, pending possible charges.

THE FOLLIES ARE BACK! What Does "Rebuild Alabama" Mean to You?

By Marla Jones Managing Editor

marla@southerntorch.com DeKALB COUNTY, Ala. — The recent passage of the Rebuild Alabama Act has stirred controversy across the State of Alabama and in DeKalb County.

With many citizens of DeKalb County questioning how this new gas tax will directly affect their lives, Southern Torch decided to give a brief breakdown of how our County and the major communities in DeKalb County will benefit. The new tax collected will be

distributed by a hybrid allocation formula amongst the state (66.67%), the counties (25%), and the cities (8.33%). Of the counties’ 25% portion, 45% will be allocated equally among all of the counties while 55% will distributed based on the individual county’s population. Of the cities’ 8.33% portion, 25% will be allocated equally among all of the cities while 75% will be distributed based on the individual city’s population.

Governmental projections show the total projected new tax to be collected will be

Contributed by Fort Payne Chamber

With the new tax in place, DeKalb County's proposed revenue will be $1,166,357. (Contributed Photo)

approximately $312 million annually. Based on those projections, the counties’ portion will be approximately $78 million while the cities will see approximately $48 million.

According to the 2010 census, DeKalb County has a population of 71,109, which is 1.49% of the

state’s population. In 2017, the gross fuel tax receipts for the County were $2,657,831. With the new tax in place, the County’s proposed revenue increase will be $1,166,357.

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FORT PAYNE, Ala. — This Friday night, March 22nd will kick off the comeback of the Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce Krazy Kudzu Follies at the DeKalb Theatre in downtown Fort Payne. Making a return will be some of the all time favorite performances by Brian Baine, Andrew Hairston, Brenda Bailey, Ronnie Osborn and Barney Woods. We also have some

surprise stars this year you won’t want to miss.

The Follies is a great fun way to raise money to support programs offered through the Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce, in a way that is sure to have you doubled over with laughter. This year we will offer Friday and Saturday night shows beginning at 7:00 pm with doors opening at 6:30 pm. On Sunday we are offering a matinee at 2:00 pm with

> FOLLIES, P4

SYLVANIA PHARMACY YOUR FRIEND, YOUR DRUGSTORE! 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 — MARCH 22, 2019

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

RAINSVILLE PURCHASES SECURITY CAMERA SYSTEM

By Marla Jones, Managing Editor • marla@southerntorch.com RAINSVILLE, Ala. — The Rainsville City Council met on Monday, March 18. Mayor Pro Tem Ricky Byrum acted as Mayor in the absence of Mayor Rodger Lingerfelt.

At the workshop, Councilmember Marshall Stiefel expressed his concern about the new gas tax, stating that he believed the new tax would cause a hardship on the citizens of Rainsville. He also said that the amount of revenue that Rainsville would receive from the new tax would not justify the extra expense.

Councilmember Ricky Byrum replied that he had not studied the new law enough to make a clear judgment on it, but did say that there was a revenue problem.

The Council approved the following: • Sent Matt Crum to revenue class in the amount of $285 • Closed out the sewer debt service account with First Fidelty Bank • Hired Sandy Little as Animal Control Officer at a pay rate of $12.14 per hour • Purchased 20 tables for the Tom Bevill Enrichment Center (TBEC) in the amount of $2,300 • Sponsored the June 15 UFC Homecoming Fight and SkillsUSA in the amount of $500 each • Resolution 3-18-2019A, declaring a 2008 fire truck as surplus • Accepted the bids from Farmers Telecommunications Cooperative in the amount of $4,765 and $125 for a security camera system at the Field of Dreams • Authorized Mayor Rodger Lingerfelt to spend $23,000 for a radar system, which will be reimbursed to the City through a grant The next meeting of the Rainsville City Council will be held on Monday, April 1 at 5pm with a work session beginning at 4:15pm.

VALLEY JOIST ANNOUNCES NEW JOIST & DECK PLANT

By Staff Reports

FORT PAYNE, Ala. — Valley Joist + Deck has announced plans to build a new, state-of-the-art joist and deck plant in Fort Payne.

"We are committed to growing our joist and deck operation in Fort Payne," said Thad Chapman, Valley Joist + Deck's Vice President of Operations. "Building the new plant is an important step in our growth strategy. Through our partnership with all levels

of the city, county and state government, utility providers and economic development authorities combined with the long-standing history [that] Valley Joist + Deck has with Fort Payne, building a new plant...was the most viable decision."

Black Diamond Capital Management acquired Valley Joist last year with plans of working with the company to grow their presence in the joist and deck industry.

"We are very thankful to the Valley Joist team. Many

have been with our company since the beginning, over 40 years ago. This growth would not be possible without them," Chapman concluded.

Valley Joist + Deck is an independent steel company that designs, engineers, and manufactures a full range of steel joist and deck product systems. The company, headquartered in Fort Payne, has additional operations in Fernley, Nev. and distributes joist and deck products throughout North America.

FORT PAYNE from Page 1 support of the MDA. Living Stone Ministries students, who are interested in government, were recognized for their attendance at the meeting.

City Clerk Andy Parker brought before the council three items. He reported that he had spoken with the City’s insurance carrier and that hopefully by the end of the week, a settlement should be reached on the Public Works Building. The Council chose to discuss with the artichect, in an April 1 meeting, on whether to save the building or tear the building down and replace with a metal building.

The Parks and Recreation Board budgeted $21,000 to purchase a tractor to be used at the Sports Complex. After some confusion on whether the particular tractor that was needed, was on the State Bid List, City Attorney Rocky Watson suggested that bids be authorized at the Tuesday meeting and if the tractor could be purchased on bid list instead of open bid, to proceed.

The last item that Parker presented was prices for (11) baby changing stations in the amount of $2,475. The question was what budget this would come out of. It was decided that wherever the stations were installed, it would

come out of that particular budget. The stations would be installed in the Civitan Park, The Coal and Iron Building, Recreation Department and Rotary Pavilion.

Jimmy Durham, Executive Director of the DeKalb County Economic Development Authority (DCEDA) and Pam Clay, Director of Business Retention and Expansion at DCEDA, addressed the Council on the progress of “Project Scout� now known as the Valley Joist project The Valley Joist company has been in Fort Payne for 25 years, brings in 12 million a year in wages alone, for the community and an all total of 55 million total per year.

The company had looked at different states including Georgia, Louisanna, Virginia and Tennessee for expansion. The approval of the abatement is keeping Valley Joist + Deck in Fort Payne. “Through the cooperation of all the utilities, Jimmy's office, the State of Alabama, this City Council, the Fort Payne Industrial Development Board, not only have you saved approximately 150 jobs but we have the promise of adding 50 new jobs within the next 5 years,� said City Attorney, Rocky Watson.

Highlights of Valley Joist expanding for our area include: The company plans on spending 8 million dollars for the new deal.

They will provide: 15 new jobs by 2 years, 30 new jobs in the next 3 years, 45 by 4 years and 50 jobs by the 5th year. If the company does not meet 80% of the new job quota, the company will pay $20,000 per job not created.

They signed the Continuous Open Commitment stating that if they are not continuously open within two years, the will pay the City of Fort Payne one million days. If they are not continually open within the 5 year anniversary, they will pay the City of Fort Payne 800,000.

The Council passed Resolution 2019-16, amending Resolution 2019-05, which granted tax abatements to “Project Scout� now known as the Valley Joist project. Also, approved the Memorandum of Understanding needs.

The Council approved the following: • Alcohol License for San Jose Fine Mexican Restaurant, 904 Gault Avenue North. • Appointed Neal Baine to a second term on the Fort Payne School Board • Streetlight request by Matt Hood, 1502 Gault Avenue South • Set the tentative date of Tuesday, July 2nd with a makeup date of Wednesday, July 3rd as the Independence Day Celebration.

The next meeting of the Fort Payne CIty Council will be held at 12pm on April 2 on the second floor of the City Hall.

GAS TAX, PAGE 1

The five counties in the state that will receive the most gas tax revenue increase under the Rebuild Alabama Act: Jefferson ($6,453,572), Madison ($3,536,785), Mobile ($4,242,320), Montgomery ($2,590,334), and Shelby ($2,280,587).

A full breakdown of the projected tax revenue for each community can be found in the attached graph.

Six cities are projected to receive over $1 million annually from the Rebuild Alabama Act: Huntsville ($4,848,569), Mobile ($2,180,813), Montgomery ($2,072,136), Birmingham ($1,521,600), Madison ($1,140,555), and Tuscaloosa ($1,070,042).

PROPOSED TAX REVENUE FOR DeKALB COUNTY COMMUNITIES Collinsville — 2017: $19,127  $46,659* Crossville — 2017: $17,579  $44,292* Fort Payne — 2017: $132,288  $241,248* Fyffe — 2017: $9,611  $30,611* Geraldine — 2017: $8,459  $28,633* Hammondville — 2017: $4,607  $22,026* Henagar — 2017: $22,130  $52,106* Ider — 2017: $6,826  $25,829* Mentone — 2017: $3,399  $19,944* Rainsville — 2017: $46,714  $94,318* Sylvania — 2017: $17,343  $43,887* Valley Head — 2017: $5,268  $23,154*

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FRIDAY — MARCH 22, 2019

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

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COMMUNITY

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Submit your upcoming events and community news to zach@southerntorch.com.

DOING THEIR PART TO MAKE THINGS BETTER

Students at Fyffe Elementary School took action when they saw the need for a buddy bench, a bench that can be used by a shy or lonely child who needs someone to play with but is too shy or afraid to ask. (Submitted Photo)

Contributed by Donna Mayes FYFFE, Ala. — A group of fourth grade students at Fyffe Elementary School saw a need on their school’s playground and took action.

The fourth graders wrote letters to their mayor to ask for his help in getting a buddy bench, a bench that can be used by a lonely child who needs someone to play with but is too shy or doesn’t want to ask.

According to the students, it all started

Students wrote letters to Fyffe Mayor Paul Cagle to see if they could get help acquiring a buddy bench. A parent from GameTime in Fort Payne designed the bench. (Submitted Photo)

when they read a book in class about empathy. They learned that empathy means putting yourself in the shoes of others, and thinking how other people might feel in certain situations. In the book it talked about students who might feel lonely on the

DCTC WELDING ADVANCES TO AL STATE COMPETITION

PICTURED: Easton Samples, Marchall Cravey, Dakota Atchley, and Payton Ervin. (Submitted Photo)

By Staff Reports HANCEVILLE, Ala. — On March 8, welding students from DeKalb County Technical School (DCTC) went to compete in the annual SkillsUSA Northeast Alabama District Contest held at Wallace State Community College.

Easton Samples of Plainview received a silver medal for 2nd place in the advanced category, Dakota Atchley of Sylvania took the bronze medal for the advanced category.

Payton Ervin of Fort Payne received the silver medal in the beginner category.

Marchall Cravey took 2nd place in the technical drafting category.

DCTC Welding Instructor Russ McFall stated, "I am so proud of the way my students performed under pressure.

Our district is known for being one of the hardest in the state to compete in...so we feel fortunate."

Because these three young men placed in the top three in their respective categories, they will go on to represent the Northeast District in the state competition in Birmingham.

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playground.

The book also talked about a school that had a buddy bench on its playground. This was where a lonely child could sit, and other students would see them and know that they needed a friend.

The Fyffe fourth graders

Every Monday, By His Hands 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 Monday, Sons of Confederate Veterans - The Sons of Confederate Veterans meets the 2nd Monday of each month at Burnt Church at 6pm in Sylvania.

Every Monday, Sons of the American Revolution - The Sons of the American Revolution meets the 3rd Monday of each month at Western Sizzlin' in Fort Payne at 6pm.

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.

Staff:

published each Friday by Southern Torch, Inc. 203 Main Street E, Rainsville AL, 35986. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Southern Torch, P.O. Box 614 Rainsville, Alabama 35986-0614.

(256) 638-4040

They decided to write letters to Fyffe Mayor Paul Cagle to ask if he could help them get one. Fyffe third and fifth grade students joined in and also wrote letters to the mayor.

The fourth graders even included a short video with some of them speaking about why a buddy bench would be good to have on their playground.

A few days after the letters were delivered to city hall, Mayor Cagle called the school to say that the students had made it very hard to say no, and of course he would

help them get a buddy bench!

Help was enlisted from a parent who works at Gametime in Fort Payne to design the bench. A few months later the red buddy bench was installed on the playground and now the students are all smiles.

They are already making good use of it. They are happy that they could do a good deed to help each other out on the playground. They would like to say a huge, “Thank you!” to Mayor Cagle and the Fyffe City Council members.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Every Wednesday, Breakthrough Church free

Southern Torch (USPS Periodicals #19790) is

expressed their concern to their teacher that they knew sometimes kids are lonely on their playground, but sometimes those kids might not tell anyone because they are shy or embarrassed.

The students loved the idea of the buddy bench.

This would make it easier to know who might need a friend. A child who needs someone to play with can sit on the bench, and other children will go over and offer to play with them. The fourth graders wanted a buddy bench for their playground at Fyffe Park.

Eloise Smith, General Manager Marla Jones, Managing Editor/Sports Editor Zach Hester, Art Director/Reporter Amy Thrash, Advertising Executive/Distribution Lindsey Jones, Accountant

Membership rates: Regular yearly rate–$30 Senior or Veteran yearly rates–$25

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.

March 22-24, Krazy Kudzu Follies - Join community leaders and citizens as they take the stage to perform skits at this year’s Krazy Kudzu Follies! The event will be held at 6pm every night from March 21-23 at the DeKalb Theatre. For more information, contact Donna Chesser by email or by phone at (256) 997-6995. The event is sponsored by the Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce.

March 23, Confederate Railroad at the Pickin’ Post - Confederate Railroad will

be performing at The Pickin’ Post in Fort Payne at 6pm on March 23!

Tickets are $30 per person and are available at Black’s Tire in Rainsville and Roger’s Pawn in Fort Payne.

For more information, you can call (256) 845-4115, (256) 657-3817 or (256) 996-8910.

Elementary Gymnasium.

Tickets are sold in advance at the Mentone Market at $35 per ticket or $250 for a table of eight. The event includes a wonderful dinner and a live auction for art made by local artists and students at Moon Lake Elementary School.

March 31, Chavies Singing - There will be a singing at Chavies Baptist Church on Sunday, March 31 at 6pm! The special singers will be Chosen Generation from Geraldine. Everyone is invited to attend!

April 9, QPR Community Training for Suicide Prevention - Increase your awareness of the warning signs, clues and suicidal communications of people who may be considering suicide and learn how to intervene with at risk individuals at QPR Community Training for Suicide Prevention presented by the SAM Foundation from 5:30pm to 7:30pm at the DeKalb County 911 Center in Rainsville on April 9.

April 6,Taste of the Mountain and Art Auction - Join the Mentone Educational Resource Foundation (MERF) for our 6th Annual Taste of the Mountain and Art Auction!

The event begins at 6pm on April 6 at Moon Lake

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FRIDAY — MARCH 22, 2019

BUSINESS

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FOLLIES from Page 1 doors opening at 1:30 pm.

Relay for Life will sell concessions in the lobby of the DeKalb Theatre with all money raised going back to Relay for Life.

So, get your family and friends together, go have a nice dinner or lunch in one of our Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce restaurants and then come enjoy a nice show in Fort Payne! The crew has worked tirelessly to put together the Follies this year, and we really hope you will come out and support their efforts to make this a great time for everyone.

You may purchase tickets online at www. fortpaynechamber.com or stop by the Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce at 300 Gault Ave. North, Fort Payne. If you have questions give us a call at 256.845.2741. A single ticket is only $15 and two tickets are $25. As of today you can purchase tickets at the door, however we do encourage you to purchase in advance.

Don’t forget to visit our website and shop, eat and support our Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce Chamber Members. We look forward to seeing everyone this weekend.

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LEGALS

LEGALS

LEGALS

LEGALS

LEGALS

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DeKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF DeKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA

IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA

CASE NO. 2019-80

CASE NO. DR-2019900050

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: ANNA MARIE MILLER, Deceased EXECUTOR NOTICE TO FILE CLAIMS LETTERS TESTAMENTARY AS EXECUTOR OF THE WILL OF ANNA MARIE MILLER, DECEASED, having been granted unto the undersigned on the 14th day of May, 2019, by the Honorable Ronnie Osborn, Judge of Probate of said county, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law, or the same will be barred.

RONNIE OSBORN, Probate Judge of DeKalb County, Alabama To be published for three consecutive weeks on March 22, March 29, and April 5

LIZBETH MARTINEZ VEGA, Plaintiff v.

ALEJANDRO ROJAS TORRES, Defendant

CASE NO. 19-71 IN THE MATTER OF PETITION FOR GUARDIANSHIP FOR MINOR EDVIN DANILO MORALES MENDEZ (DOB: 02/19/2001) NOTICE OF GUARDIANSHIP PROCEEDINGS

NOTICE OF DIVORCE PROCEEDINGS

NOTICE TO: MARIO MORALES MENDEZ, FATHER

NOTICE TO: ALEJANDRO ROJAS TORRES

RE: Petition for Guardianship Order for EDVIN DANILO MORALES MENDEZ

ALEJANDRO ROJAS TORRES, whose whereabouts are unknown, must answer the Complaint for Divorce and other relief by the 17th day of May, 2019, or, thereafter, a judgment by default may be rendered against him in Case No.: DR-2019-900050, in the Circuit Court of DeKalb County, Alabama.

ATTORNEY FOR PETITIONER: Gabriela Watson, Esq WATSON & WATSON P.O. Box 1068 Albertville, Alabama 35950 To be published for four consecutive weeks on March 22, March 29, April 5, and April 12

SUBSCRIBE TODAY 256.638.4040 • www.southerntorch.com

Please take notice that a Petition for Guardianship has been filed in said Court and that on the 4th day of April, 2019, at 10am said matter has been set for a hearing on the same in the Probate Court of DeKalb County. Please be advised that if you intend to contest said Petition for Guardianship you must file a written response with the attorney named below and with the Clerk of the Probate Court, 300 Grand Avenue SW, Suite 100, Fort Payne, AL 35967 as soon as possible but no later than the date of the currently scheduled hearing.

ATTORNEY FOR PETITIONER: Gabriela Watson, Esq WATSON & WATSON P.O. Box 1068 Albertville, Alabama 35950 To be published for four consecutive weeks on March 15, 22, and 29

CASE NO. CS-2019-900008 OLGA MARINA PEREZ COLAJ, Plaintiff v.

UNKNOWN UNKNOWN, Defendant NOTICE OF CUSTODY PROCEEDINGS UNKNOWN UNKNOWN, whose whereabouts are unknown, must answer the Petition for Custody and other relief filed by Plaintiff/ Mother, Olga Marina Perez Colaj, by the 24th day of April, 2019, or, thereafter, a judgment by default may be rendered against him in Case No.: CS-2019-900008, in the District Court of DeKalb County, Alabama.

ATTORNEY FOR PLAINTIFF: Gabriela Watson, Esq WATSON & WATSON P.O. Box 1068 Albertville, Alabama 35950 To be published for four consecutive weeks on March 1, 8, 15, and 22

CASE NO. CS-2019-30 IN RE: The Estate of JAMES ROBERT WHITE SR., deceased NOTICE OF LETTERS TESTAMENTARY TO BE PUBLISHED

BY PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to JAMES ROBERT WHITE JR., Personal Representative of the Estate of JAMES ROBERT WHITE SR. on the 28th day of February, 2019, by the Honorable Ronnie Osborn, Judge of Probate Court of DeKalb County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within six months after the grant of letters, or within five months from the date of the first publication of this notice, whichever is the later to occur, or the same will be barred.

RONNIE OSBORN, Probate Judge of DeKalb County, Alabama To be published for three consecutive weeks on March 8, 15 and 22

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FRIDAY — MARCH 22, 2019

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

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POLITICS

INSIDE THE STATEHOUSE

By Steve Flowers AL Political Columnist

MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Last week we talked about the importance that roads are to the economic development of our state. We spoke about urban growth and expansion, especially the needs for highways in Huntsville and the improvement of the Port in Mobile.

Well, I overlooked the needs and importance of our rural roads. Make no doubt about it, our rural roads need fixing too. A good many of the rural bridges in the state have been condemned and are hazardous for heavy trucks and school buses to travel. Many folks

figure it would be cheaper to pay more for gasoline than it is to pay for having their frontends aligned and tires balanced every few weeks from hitting potholes in the road.

Some of our farm to market roads have not been fixed since Big Jim Folsom built them in the 1950’s. Big Jim left an indelible legacy as governor with his legendary and necessary Farm to Market program.

There are a good many stories and memories of Ole Big Jim surrounding his legend as a Farm to market Road and bridges builder. One of those stories comes out of Scottsboro and Jackson County in the northeast corner of Alabama. It is

Joseph K. McNew, D.V.M • Linda Galbraith, D.V.M. • Jessica Jones, D.V.M.

Your loyal companion, Our dedicated focus!

one of the prettiest parts of Alabama, especially in the Fall.

One of Big Jim’s favorite political friends was Representative John Snodgrass of Scottsboro.

Big Jim loved John Snodgrass. The feeling was mutual. Big Jim decided to build a bridge and name it after his buddy. He didn’t just build a little bridge, he built a big bridge over the Tennessee River. The problem was they built the bridge where there was no road. Folk’s in Scottsboro marveled at the fact that the bridge they longed for was built without a road leading up to it.

Big Jim and Snodgrass never worried about it for a minute.

They told the good folks in the Tennessee Valley, “Don’t you know that if you build a bridge, they’ve got to build a road to it?�

Sure enough, the road was built and is now the main thoroughfare through Sand Mountain – Highway 17 that runs through Jackson and Dekalb Counties. Ole Big Jim and Snodgrass were

right, if you built a bridge a road will follow.

Big Jim built the bridge for his friend with the intention of calling it the John Snodgrass bridge. There got to be a lot of opposition to naming it after John Snodgrass because some of the folks didn’t believe that you should name something after somebody who was living.

Well, Snodgrass was heir to a great family name in Jackson County.

His granddaddy and daddy had both been prominent judges in the county.

One day Big Jim pulled his friend Snodgrass aside and said, “John what was yore daddy’s name?�

Snodgrass said, “John, just like me.� “What about your granddaddy?�

John said, “John just like me.� Big Jim said, “Hell, they are both dead and they are named John Snodgrass. We will just name it after them and it will be really named after you.�

Shortly after naming the Snodgrass bridge, Big Jim was going to name

another bridge in North Alabama that he had gotten built. The good folks in this county had worked on this bridge project for over a decade and Big Jim had gotten it done. The probate judge of the county had spearheaded the project and waited diligently on it and the bridge was going to be named after him, rightfully so.

Well the day of the bridge opening ceremony was set and Big Jim was headed out of Montgomery in the Governor’s limousine. As he passed the old Exchange Hotel he spotted his best drinking buddy. He got his driver to stop the car and grabbed his friend to join him on his journey to dedicate the bridge. To say that Big Jim and his friend had a couple of nips on the way would be

an understatement.

When Big Jim got to the dedication ceremony, he stumbled out of the car, barefooted, hair disheveled, tie loosened and drug his friend along with him. He stumbled to the stage and to the dismay of the crowd and especially the Probate Judge, pronounced the name of the bridge after his drinking buddy. He and his buddy, the proud honoree of a bridge, got back in the Governor’s car and drove back to Montgomery.

See you next week.

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

Baptist Church with Rev. Chris Murdock officiating. Burial

followed in Walker’s Chapel Cemetery.

DEATH NOTICES WT WILSON Koy Spears - 18 of Collinsville. A visitation was held from 4pm to 8pm on Sunday, March 17 at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel.

Walter Allen - 68, passed away on Wednesday, March 13.

Cremation services are provided by WT Wilson Funeral Chapel.

Henry Yates - 81 of Sylvania, passed away on Wednesday, March 13.

Funeral services were held at 4pm on Friday, March 15 at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel. Burial followed in Kirk Memorial Gardens.

Dillon Dutton - 24 of Fort Payne, passed away on Thursday, March 14. A memorial service was held at noon on Sunday, March 17 at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel.

Leonard Standridge - 87 of Albertville, passed away on Friday, March 15. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Friday, March 22 at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel with Bro. Bobby Pendergrass officiating.

Burial followed in Center Point Cemetery with military honors.

Bruce Hendrix - 57 of Albertville, passed away on Saturday, March 16. Funeral services were held at 11am on Tuesday, March 19 at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel. Burial followed in New Canaan Cemetery.

Maria Lemus-Monge - 74 of Fort Payne, passed away on Saturday, March 16. Funeral services were held at 11am on Tuesday, March 19 at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church with Father Mark Spruill. Burial followed in Glenwood Cemetery.

Robert Hill - 90 of Grove Oak, passed away on Monday, March 18.

Funeral services were held at 3pm on Wednesday, March 20 at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel with Bro. Bobby Pendergrass officiating.

Burial followed in Piney Grove Cemetery.

CROSSVILLE Danny Downer - 66 of Albertville, passed away on Tuesday, March 12 at Marshall Medical Center South. Funeral

services were held at 11am on Friday, March 15 at Crossville Memorial Chapel with Bro. Jimmy McCormick officiating.

Burial followed in DeKalb Memorial Gardens.

RAINSVILLE Molly Jo Black - 78 of Rainsville, passed away on Saturday, March 16 at her residence. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Monday, February 18 at Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Roger Graham officiating. Burial followed in Wesley’s Chapel Cemetery.

KERBY James Bowman II 83 of Pisgah, passed away on Wednesday, March 13 at Memorial Hospital in Chattanooga, Tenn. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Sunday, March 17 at Kerby Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Micaiah Tanck officiating.

BURT Eleasa Blalock Sword - 62 of Mentone, passed away on Thursday, March 14 at

Redmond Regional Medical Center in Rome, Ga. Funeral services were held at 12pm on Saturday, March 16 at Burt Chapel-Valley Head with Rev. L.A. Smith officiating.

Fred C. Mullins - 80 of Fort Payne, passed away on Sunday, March 17 at DeKalb Regional Medical Center. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Sunday, March 24 at Burt Chapel-Fort Payne with Rev. Terry Dehart officiating. Burial followed in Walker’s Chapel Cemetery.

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FRIDAY — MARCH 22, 2019

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

THE KINGS ARE CROWNED

By Marla Jones Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com RAINSVILLE, Ala. — On Thursday, March 14, Alabama High School

Athletic Association (AHSAA) Executive Director Steve Savarese and Associate Executive Director Alvin Briggs presented the Plainview Bears basketball team with their second Class 3A State

Championship trophy.

Plainview Head Coach Robi Coker stated, "There isn't enough time or words to explain how proud I am of this group...125 wins, too many tournament championships to count

and back-to-back State Champions."

In the past two years, the team has won over 70 games and had the best three point shooting average in AHSAA history.

The senior class has

had 125 wins, three Northeast Regional Chamopionships and a 5-1 record in the state finals.

Savarese that this senior class would go down as one of the best in AHSAA history.

The seniors on the team are: Dane Haymon, Jackson Hosch, Andrew McLaughlin, Caden Millican, Koby Tinker and Haden White.

ON THE DIAMOND BATTER UP!

Kenzi Traylor throws the heat against the Fyffe Red Devils on Monday. The Lady Bears defeated Fyffe, 15-4. (Photo by Cheryl Boydston | Southern Torch) SUBMITTED PHOTO

The Ider Lady Hornets defeated the rival North Sand Mountain Lady Bisons on Tuesday, 13-2. (Photo by Cheryl Boydston | Southern Torch)

PERFECTION

The Sylvania Varsity Boys Tennis Team picked up three more victories to move to 4-0 on the year.

The team defeated Faith Christian, 6-3. In singles match, the following players won: Jordan Johnson (8-4), Drake Justus (8-6), and Clayton Wilks (8-6). In doubles match, the following players won: Higgins/Sanders (8-4), Stover/Justus (8-3), and Wilks/McCullough (8-3).

• •

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FRIDAY — MARCH 22, 2019

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

7

CATCH OF THE WEEK Youth Kayak "Fish for Trash Tournament

By Staff Reports

SHELBY COUNTY, Ala. – The Fyffe Fishing Team of Evan Chandler and Hunter Machen had a first place finish in the Alabama Bass Federation Tournament on Lay Lake on Saturday. The team secured first place with a combined weight of 15.77. The State Championship tournament is on April 26-27.

AFC 2 Homecoming

FORT PAYNE, Ala. — One World Adventure has teamed up with Fort Payne Water Works, TVA and local sponsors for the 1st Annual Youth Kayak “Fish for Trash” Tournament! The event will take place on Saturday, April 6, 2019 from 8am-12 noon at the Fort Payne City Reservior on 67th Street.

Litter in our waterways is a serious problem in DeKalb County. It has significant impacts on water quality, plants and wildlife and public health and safety.

The issue also has a significant economic impact, as cleanup measures are extremely costly and poor water quality and unsafe water conditions threaten the

areas tourism driven revenues.

The event is a continued effort to help “Erase the Waste” in our community. Youth will set out in kayaks on the Fort Payne City Reservoir but, instead of nets and fishing rods they will provided with trash bags and litter grabbers. There are three age divisions including a Parent/Child division for children under 10 and we will give away cash and prizes for the most litter collected.

The entry fee is only $10 per person. Fort Payne Water Works will provide free Pizza and drinks for all participants at the John Rains Treatment Plant.

This will be a fun, community event for the entire family and remove a lot of litter from our

drinking water.

Participants can launch their own craft or call One World Adventure to reserve a kayak or canoe for no extra fee.

Volunteers are also needed to cleanup up litter along 67th street as part of our annual cleanup campaign.

We hope you will help us spread the word and join us on April 6th!

Thank you to our sponsors that have donated money and prizes! Builder's SupplyFort Payne, First Southern State Bank, Skelton Orthodontics, Chateau de la Famille, Randy Posey & Allstate, Southern Properties, GH Metal Solutions, Rusted Arrow, TVA and Fort Payne Water Works.

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