GRAB A GREAT DEAL THIS SUMMER! 1411 Glenn Blvd SW, Fort Payne, AL 35967
WWW.BOBBYLEDBETTER.COM • 256.844.2210
LIKE
THE SOUTHERN TORCH / FRIDAY, JUNE 14, 2019 / VOL. 5, NO. 24 / $1.00
Don't miss "The Best Small Race in America" happening THIS SATURDAY, June 15! The race will begin at 8am at Broadway Baptist Church on McCurdy Avenue South in Rainsville. We'll see you at the finish line!
By Marla Jones Managing Editor
MONTGOMERY, Ala. — U.S. Senator Doug Jones (D-AL) recently announced the hiring of former Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Ron Sparks to his team. Sparks will serve as the Regional Director for the Middle District of Alabama, which includes Montgomery and Dothan.
Sparks will serve as Regional Director for the Middle District of Alabama on Senator Jones' team. (U.S. Senator Doug Jones) (Submitted Photo)
“Doug’s been a friend of mine for a long time, so certainly it’s an honor for Doug to ask me to do what he’s asked me to do,� said
Sparks. “The most important thing to me [is that] this is not partisan, we’ve got a lot of work to do to help people that need
Medical Marijuana BOE Holds
Moves Forward
in Alabama
June Meeting PHOTO BY ZACH HESTER
By Zach Hester Art Director
The commission created by Ivey's signing of the bill will study medical marijuana ahead of legislation likely being introduced in next year's session. (File Photo)
By Zach Hester, Art Director MONTGOMERY, Ala. — On Monday, Governor Kay Ivey signed into law the creation of a medical marijuana commission that will look at, study and draft legislation to be considered next year. The legislation will aim at legalizing medical marijuana in the State of Alabama. Members of the commission will be appointed by the Governor, President Pro Tem of the Senate, and House speaker. The bill also renews Carly’s law, which allows children who suffer from seizures to use cannabis oil legally. The original bill passed through both houses of the Alabama Legislature with some changes coming to the bill from the House, who passed it by a vote of 80-19. The Senate passed the bill 17-6. According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, more than 30 U.S. states have some form of approved programs for medical marijuana.
DeKALB COUNTY, Ala. — (Full Video on our Facebook) The DeKalb County Board of Education held their regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, June 10 at 2pm. At the meeting, the Board approved CNP meal price increases in the following amounts: • Paid Student Meals from $2.10 to $2.20 • Board Employee from $3.55 to $3.65 • Visitors from $4.05 to $4.15 • Second Entree from $0.75 to $1.00 The following non-renewals, terminations, retirements, resignations, leaves of absence, transfers and
SUBSCRIBE TODAY 256.638.4040 • www.southerntorch.com
placements were made. Non-Renewals/ Terminations • Amanda Hatley - Bus Driver at Crossville Schools (6/10/19) Retirements/ Resignations • Steve Street Supervisor at System (retirement, 7/1/19) • Brenda Vaughn - Bus Driver/Tech Route Driver at Ider High School (retirement, 7/1/19) • Jay Shankles Secondary PE Teacher and Coaching Duties at Crossville High School (resignation, 5/23/19) • Christa Blevins Junior High Cheerleader Sponsor (coaching duties only) at Crossville Middle School (resignation,
> BOE, P4
• LISTEN TO
MORNiNG MAYHEM with Marla, Marshall
& the legendary danny lee ON K98.3, EVERY MORNING AT 6AM AND THE
HITS OF 80s, 90s & TODAY ALONG WITH RICK & BUBBA ON
101.7 the storm
•
it. That’s my goal. That’s the Senator’s goal and that’s what we’re going to do.� Sparks was born and raised in DeKalb County in Fort Payne, Alabama. He was first elected to public office in 1977 as a DeKalb County Commissioner. In 2003, he was elected Commissioner of
> SPARKS, P3
HOMECOMING Don't miss LIVE MMA fights with the very best local fighters as well as high-level martial artists from around the country on Saturday, June 15 at the DeKalb County Coliseum! Doors open at 6pm.
Productive Week for
Drug Task Force
By Staff Reports FORT PAYNE, Ala. — From the Office of DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden: So far it has been a busy week for DeKalb Co. Sheriff’s Office DTF Agents and Deputies. Among multiple other arrests, agents have arrested a former police officer and in a separate incident, a suspect with several warrants after a car chase. On Monday (June 3, 2019) agents attempted to conduct a traffic stop on I-59. After attempting to stop the vehicle for several miles, the vehicle finally stopped. After talking to the driver, Crystal Pope (41 of Rainsville), agents observed alcohol within the vehicle. Pope was charged with Illegal Possession of Alcohol, Obstruction of Government Operations, and Resisting Arrest after she refused to comply with agents. Later in the day,
agents were working citizens’ complaints in the Henagar area, when they spotted a maroon Buick passenger car and conducted a traffic stop. After a search of the vehicle, agents recovered cocaine and marijuana. The driver of the vehicle, Jacob Smith (21 of Pisgah) was charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Marijuana 1st Degree, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. The passenger, Mariah Casey (19 of Pisgah) was charged with Possession of Marijuana 1st and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. On Tuesday (June 4, 2019) agents with the DeKalb County Drug Task Force arrested Ryan Evans (35 of Section). Evans is a former law enforcement officer who was previously employed at an area police
> ARRESTS, P2
BASSMASTER ELITE SERIES LAKE GUNTERSVILLE • SCOTTSBORO, AL •JUNE 21-24
WATCH THE PROS TAKE OFF & WEIGH-IN DAILY! TAKEOFF BEGINS AT 6AM, WEIGH-IN AT 2:15PM
K98 WILL BE LIVE & ANNOUNCING DAILY WINNERS
TWEET
SPARKS JOINS JONES' TEAM AFC2
RAINSVILLE
FREEDOM RUN
FOLLOW
•
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.
FRIDAY — JUNE 14, 2019
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
You’ve Got Options ! 0%
FINANCING
0% interest
CASH REBATE
REFUND
60
months
REBATE !!! up to a
$1,500.** On qualifying INSTANT REBATE*!
TAX
for
* With approved credit.
CASH
2
DAIKIN units. Limited time offer.
A New System! What a smart use of your refund
!
ARRESTS from Page 1 department. Agents found over 20 grams of methamphetamine, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia in his possession. Evans was charged with Trafficking of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Marijuana 2nd Degree, Resisting Arrest, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Disorderly Conduct. On Tuesday night an agent on Highway 40 near Henagar initiated a traffic stop, and after a search found approximately 200 grams of marijuana in the trunk of the vehicle. The driver, London Jackson (23 of Huntsville) was charged with Possession of Marijuana 1st Degree and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. The passenger, Vanity Martin (21 of Huntsville) was
charged with Possession of Marijuana 2nd Degree and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Later on Tuesday (June 4, 2019) around 11 pm, a Task Force Agent initiated a pursuit of a suspect wanted for multiple felony warrants. The chase began on Alabama Highway 40 in Henagar and continued down County Road 85 into Fort Payne. The suspect attempted to turn on Wooten Gap Road before losing control of his vehicle. The driver, Kenneth Gregory (55 of Fort Payne) was taken into custody on charges of Reckless Endangerment, Attempting to Elude, Resisting Arrest, and multiple felony warrants. Another occupant of the vehicle, Melissa Sharp (46 of Fort Payne) was charged with Resisting Arrest. After this chase, an agent found approximately 85 grams of
marijuana on a traffic stop on Highway 40 in Henagar. The driver, Terrence Baldwin (32 of Huntsville) was charged with Possession of Marijuana 1st Degree and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. The passenger, Chequana Reedus (31 of Huntsville) was charged with Possession of Marijuana 2nd Degree and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden said of the incident: “Hats off to our Drug Task Force Agents and deputies this week. We’ve intercepted a lot of narcotics before it was distributed into our communities.” “We’re going to continue working into the night and burning up the roads to keep this county safe. The guys from the sheriff’s office who serve on the task force are relentless in their efforts.”
Serving Our Community for 36 Years !
256-845-1742
Transferring Your Prescriptions To Our Pharmacy Is As Easy As
Call or Stop By Anytime
Give Us Your RX Numbers
We Do The Rest!
2207 GAULT AVE. N FORT PAYNE • 35967
THEBLUECHARMBOUTIQUE@GMAIL.COM
DeKalb Sportsman & Pawn
FATHER’S DAY SALE
10% OFF
CASE KNIVES
GEAR-UP FOR ANY SEASON
25% OFF ALL CLOTHING
YETI • BROWNING • DRAKE • GLOCK • ROCKY • RUGER • BENELLI • MOUNTAIN KHAKIS • SMITH & WESSON 2310 GAULT AVENUE NORTH • FORT PAYNE, ALABAMA • 256.997.0707
FRIDAY — JUNE 14, 2019
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
COMMUNITY
3
Submit your upcoming events and community news to zach@southerntorch.com.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day to be Observed on Saturday
THE WILLS TOWN RATS & THE CITY OF FORT PAYNE PRESENT
BIKE NIGHT
By Staff Reports DeKALB COUNTY, Ala. — The elderly population and disabled adults in our state and communities have the right to feel safe and to be treated with dignity and respect. Unfortunately, this is not the case for every elderly individual and disabled adult in our state. Based upon reports from the previous years, thousands of elderly individuals and disabled adults have been and are being abused, neglected and exploited in Alabama every year. In an effort to promote elder abuse awareness, agencies, organizations, communities and professionals around the world will unite on June 15th to observe World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The national theme for this year's observance is "Lifting up Voices." The nationally recognized color to represent elder abuse awareness is purple. We are asking each community member to please wear purple throughout the month of June, particularly on the 15th. Unfortunately, victims are most often abused, neglected and exploited by persons who are known and trusted by the elderly person or disabled adult", added DeKalb County Department of Human Resources Director Denise Raines. The Department of Human Resources (DHR) is responsible for investigating reports of abuse, neglect and exploitation regarding the elderly and disabled adults. In FY 2018, DHR investigated approxim 10,780 reports of suspected abuse, neglect and exploitation of vulnerable adults statewide, which included elderly individuals and disabled adults. DHR is requesting the assistance of all community members to help with protecting our vulnerable citizens as they have contributed so much to society. If you suspect an elderly person or an adult with disabilities is being mistreated please contact DeKalb County DHR at 256-844-2700 to make a report. Reports may also be made, toll free, to the Adult Abuse Hotline, 1-800-458-7214, and via online at aps@ dhr.alabama.gov. All reports are confidential and may be made anonymously.
SPARKS
featuring
Kenne Cramer & Friends!
LIVE MUSIC FREE ADMISSION FOOD & BEVERAGES
SATURDAY, JUNE 22 AT 6PM @ THE FORT PAYNE ROTARY PAVILION
Commission Deals with Damage Claims
from Page 1 Agriculture for the State of Alabama. During his tenure as Agriculture Commissioner, Sparks also served as President of the Southern Association of Departments of Agriculture and in 2008, he was elected as President of the National Association of Departments of Agriculture. In 2010, Sparks was the Democratic nominee for Governor of Alabama. Following his leave from elected office, Sparks served as Director of the Alabama Rural Development Office under Governor Robert Bentley. In a statement, Senator Jones said: “Ron has a long record of distinguished service to Alabama, and I know he’ll be an invaluable asset to my team. I look forward to having him lead our outreach efforts in the Middle District and to continue to provide first-class constituent service.”
By Marla Jones Managing Editor DeKALB COUNTY, Ala. — (Full Video on our Facebook) The DeKalb County Commission held their regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, June 11 at the DeKalb County Activities Building. Road Department Superintendent Tom Broyles delivered a maintenance update regarding patchwork and surface treatments across the County. DeKalb County Engineer Ben Luther updated the Commission on two damage claims from Janet Bearden on County Road 846 who dealt with a busted tire and Dusty White on County Road 570 who dealt with
liquid asphalt. Luther also requested that the Commission approve an asphalt bid to Reed Construction for $63-68 per unit. The Commission approved the following: • Hired Terry Wadsworth as a temporary worker at the Road Department • Officers Bell & Smith to attend training in Montgomery for the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office • Hired temporary help
for the summer at the DeKalb County Revenue Commission • Approved a yearly credit for insolvents, bankruptcies and taxes in litigation for the DeKalb County Revenue Commission • Garbage fee exemptions for the new vendor contract The next meeting of the DeKalb County Commission will be held at 10am on Tuesday, June 25 at the DeKalb County Activities Building.
Terrell Chiropractic, LLC OPEN SIX DAYS A WEEK!
Dr. Robert Terrell Dr. Jeff Parker Mon-Wed Thu-Fri Saturday 8:30-5:30 8:30-5:30 8:30-12
65 McCurdy Ave S, Rainsville, AL 35986 Phone: (256) 638-9393 • Fax: (256) 638-9395
UPCOMING EVENTS 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. 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. June 15, 11th Annual Freedom Run 5K & 10K - Don't miss the area's
largest fun run/walk! The Rainsville Freedom Run will begin at Broadway Baptist Church in Rainsville at 8am. Proceeds will benefit local charities. Pre-registration (before May 31) is $30 and after May 31 is $35. Registration will close at 1,000 walkers/ runners. To register online, look at contact information and more, visit racesonline.com! June 15, 5th Annual Charity Car, Truck & Cycle Show - The 5th Annual Charity Car, Truck & Cycle Show will be held on Saturday, June 15 from 8am to 12:30pm at the Jackson County Fair Grounds. The weather backup date will be June 22. For more information, visit the Facebook page for the Jackson County Cruisers Alabama or call (256) 647-1880. June 15, Rainsville Community Yard Sale - A Community Yard Sale on Chandler Drive in Rainsville on Saturday, June 15 at 2pm! June 20-23, Alabama Fan Appreciation Weekend - Fort Payne's own country music group ALABAMA invite you to
Staff: Southern Torch (USPS Periodicals #19790) is 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
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
their Fan Club & Museum and weekend activities throughout DeKalb County. Tour the fan club, attend an autograph session, enjoy concerts and so much more! Check the ALABAMA Facebook page for more information, including various times and places of events. June 30, Chavies Baptist Church Singing - A singing will be held at Chavies Baptist church on Sunday, June 30 at 6pm with The Brandford's (of Trenton, Ga.) as the special singers. For more information, call (256)
638-4011. July 2, Fort Payne Independence Day Celebration - The City of Fort Payne will present their annual Independence Day Celebration at the Sports Complex with food, music and the best fireworks show around! The celebration will begin at 5pm and cost is free! July 4, Sand Mountain Potato Festival - Sand Mountain is well known for its rich diversity of agricultural products, including potatoes! Celebrate our heritage with
live music, arts & crafts, entertainment, games and fireworks! The festival will go from 10am to 9pm! The cost is free to come in! July 27, Fyffe Half-Century Club Meeting - The Fyffe Half-Century Club reunion will be held at 12pm (doors at 10am) on Saturday, July 27 at the Fyffe Senior Center. Attendees should bring a covered dish or finger food, drinks will be provided. The hosts will be the Fyffe Class of 2019, who are celebrating their 50th reunion.
4
FRIDAY — JUNE 14, 2019
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
BUSINESS
with Marla & Marshall
EVERY FRIDAY ON FACEBOOK
 �� � ��
ADVERTISE HERE FOR JUST 12.50
FUNERAL CHAPEL & MONUMENTS
PHONE: 256.638.2700 FAX: 256.638.3488 WWW.WTWILSONFUNERALCHAPEL.COM
Hooch~N~Pooch GROOMING Vickie Woods
256.605.9352 22 Years Experience in Veterinarian Science and Assistant Technician! Specializing in Small & Large Animals
fsbal.com
Southern Gold & Silver QUALITY JEWELRY
James Allensworth • allensworthgold@aol.com
1706 Glenn Blvd., Suite 4
Fort Payne, AL 35968 • (256) 997-7591
Woody’s
ADVERTISE HERE FOR JUST 12.50
Steak & Seafood Tuesday-Thursday — 10:30-7 Friday & Saturday — 10:30-8 Sunday — 11-3
105 Co. Rd. 89 in Fort Payne / Dogtown
256-364-2221
with Marla & Marshall ARROW NORTH
(256) 659-TREE LOWEST PRICES
TRIMMING - INSECT/DISEASE CONTROL - TREE REMOVAL & LAND CLEARING - STUMP GRIDING OR COMPLETE STUMP REMOVAL
TREE SERVICE
EVERY FRIDAY ON FACEBOOK THE FISHERMEN SOUTHERN GOSPEL QUARTET For bookings call: Glenn Smith (256) 572-6146 Check us out on Facebook
475 Main Street W Rainsville, AL
LEGALS IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO. 2019-166 In RE: The Estate of Ellen C. West, deceased NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT TO BE PUBLISHED BY ADMINISTRATOR Letters of Administration of said Deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 11th day of February, 2018, by Ronnie Osborn, Judge of the 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 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 May 31, June 7 and 14
BOE from Page 1 6/10/19) • Heather Prince - EL Teacher at Collinsville High School (resignation, 7/1/19) Leave of Absence • Byron Fricks Secondary Social Sciences Teacher at Crossville High School (8/1/19-5/27/20) Transfers • Jon Alan Pope Virtual School Teacher (10 months) to Itinerant Instructional Coach, Mathematics (10 months) • Leslie Waldrop Secondary Science Teacher at Collinsville High School to Secondary Science Teacher at Plainview High School • David Marks Counselor at Valley Head High School to Registrar for the System • Shelly McCollum Library Media Specialist at Geraldine High School to Data Manager for the System • Tiffany Jenkins Itinerant SPED Paraprofessional at Fyffe High School to Itinerant
•
" "
SPED Teacher at Crossville Middle School • Scott Timmons Principal at Ruhama Jr. High School to Principal at Henagar Jr. High School • Stevie Green Principal at Henagar Jr. High School to Principal at Ruhama Jr. High School • Amy Southers Secondary English Language Arts Teacher at Geraldine High School to High School Library Media Specialist at Geraldine High School Placements (Certified) • Jennifer Sanders Computer Science Teacher at Plainview High School • Cyrus Frost - High School Principal (12 months) at Ider High School • Samuel Tidmore Secondary English Language Arts Teacher/JV Boys Basketball Coaching Duties • James York Secondary Social Science Teacher at Crossville High School • Jonathan McGill Secondary Mathematics Teacher/Assistant Football Coaching Duties at Crossville High School • Casey Denton Elementary Teacher at Crossville Elementary School • Emily Bales Elementary Teacher at Crossville Elementary School
• Aimee Jung Elementary Teacher at Crossville Elementary School • Ashlea Veal Elementary Teacher at Collinsville High School • Anastasia “Taseiaâ€? Monroe - Elementary Library Media Specialist at Plainview High School • Ariel Johnson Varsity Volleyball Head Coaching Duties at Crossville High School • Jesse Martin - Varsity Girls Basketball Head Coaching Duties at Crossville High School • Addison Fugatt Junior High Cheerleader Sponsor at Crossville Middle School • Macy Smith - Junior High Girls Basketball Coach at Crossville Middle School • Skylar Painter Elementary Teacher at Geraldine High School • Cory Amos Secondary English Language Arts Teacher (leave from 8/1/19/5/27/20) at Crossville High School • Jeffery Baird Secondary Science Teacher at Valley Head High School Placements (Support) • Jenny Mann - Bus Driver at Ider High School • Angel Blanks - Bus Driver at Crossville Elementary School • Tom Clanton - Bus Driver at Collinsville High School
• Lindsay Harrison High School Secretary/ Bookkeeper at Fyffe High School • Jessica Galloway Assistant Custodian (9 months) at Geraldine High School Summer Workers • Crossville Elementary School: Alex Chacon, Andres Augustin • Crossville High School: Angel Augustin, Haley Hicks • Fyffe High School: Carly Thrash, Trent Thrash, Jimmy Womack • Geraldine High School: Cori Willoughby, Caleb McSpadden • Henagar Jr. High School: Dylan Clark • Ider High School: Angela Barber, Seth White • Moon Lake Elementary School: Bret Hulgan • Plainview High School: Geovauny Chaparro, Luke Kirby • Ruhama Jr. High School: Susan Henderson • Sylvania High School: Grant Atchley, Hunter Hill • Valley Head High School: Zeb Ferguson, Wesley Rhodes • Maintenance: Trey Bell • Textbook Helper: Matthew Wayne McCollum Contracts
KANDIELAND DAY CARE CEN ER
256.638.4848
333 DILBECK RD IN RAINSVILLE
/
• Addison Fugatt Homebound (Local) • April Fowler Nursing Duties (IDEA B) • Heather Bethune ESY Supplemental Services (IDEA B) • Tammy Smith Support Services at 21st Century Program at Moon Lake (IDEA B, 6/6/19-6/12/19) • Tammy Smith Support Services at 21st Century Program at Moon Lake (IDEA B, 6/13/19-6/14/19) • Wendy Ann Bowman - Sign Language Interpreting Services (IDEA B) • John Kincer - 21st Century Moon Lake Bus Driver (Title IV) • LeeAnne Hulgan 21st Century Moon Lake Summer Aide (Title IV) • Interquest Detection Canines (System, Local) The next meeting of the DeKalb County Board of Education will be held at Tuesday, June 2 at 5pm with a work session beginning at 4pm.
USE D-33 TO CONTROL FLEAS & TICKS ON DOGS AND CATS! Hometown Feed & Seed • www.fleabeacon.com
B P
FRIDAY — JUNE 14, 2019
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
5
POLITICS
INSIDE THE STATEHOUSE
By Steve Flowers Political Columnist
MONTGOMERY, Ala. — The 2019 legislative session is now in the books. As each session is observed, it is apparent that primary, powerful, state senators control the flow and outcome of any and all legislative sessions. Current Alabama State Senators Del Marsh, Jabo Waggoner, Greg Reed, and Arthur Orr wield immense influence. This has been true throughout history. The annals of political history reveal powerful state senators. Some of the most prominent include: Roland Cooper, the “Wily Fox from Wilcox�, Joe Goodwyn of Montgomery, Walter Givhan of Dallas County, Ryan DeGraffenreid, Sr. of Tuscaloosa and later his son, Ryan, Jr. also of Tuscaloosa. The legendary state senator Bob Wilson, Sr. of Jasper was powerful in his day. Jimmy Clark of Barbour as a Senator and
Speaker of the House, the legendary Rankin Fite of Marion County, a Senator and Speaker of the House, Joe McCorquodale of Clarke County, who was Speaker for over a decade, Pete Turnham and Bo Torbert of Lee County, Rick Manley of Marengo was brilliant, Lowell Barron of Fyffe, Roger Bedford of Russellville, and Hank Sanders of Selma would be on the list along with former Speaker of the House, Seth Hammett of Covington County. However, as powerful as all of the aforementioned were, perhaps the title of “Most Powerful Legislator� should go to State Senator James Titus of Madison. Almost all of you are scratching your head and saying who in the world is James Titus? Let me share with you the James Titus story and place in Alabama history. When the Alabama territory was created by Congress in 1817, the Act provided that the new legislature would be made up of members of the
Mississippi Territorial Legislature, who resided in what was to become Alabama. There were ten men serving in the Mississippi House of Representatives and three in the Senate. Before the new Legislature convened at St. Stephens in January, 1818, one of these senators had resigned and a second was unable to attend the session. Only James Titus was present for that first legislative session. Some men might have been reluctant to conduct business under the circumstances, but not James Titus. He had not made the long journey from Huntsville to St. Stephens for nothing and he took his responsibilities seriously. He called the Senate to order, called the roll, organized the Senate, nominated and elected himself as presiding officer, voted on all bills and at the end of the day, made the motion to adjourn. He was in essence a one-man senate. Folks, there have been powerful legislators in our
colorful and illustrious political history, but none will ever have the power that Senator Titus had. Speaking of powerful senators, our Senior U.S. Senator Richard Shelby has reached a pinnacle unsurpassed in Alabama political history. In March Senator Shelby passed the legendary Senator John Sparkman for length of service in the United States Senate from Alabama. Shelby has now served 32-years and five months. Sparkman’s record was 32 years and three months. In my 2015 book, “Of Goats and Governors: Six Decades of Colorful Alabama Political Stories,� I have a chapter entitled Alabama’s three greatest U.S. Senators. Senators Lister Hill, John Sparkman and Richard Shelby have been the greatest. However, if I were writing the chapter today, Shelby would be in a league of his own as Alabama’s most powerful senator in Alabama History. Senators Hill and Sparkman were powerful
and left a legacy. Hill’s is in medical research and rural hospitals throughout the nation and Alabama. Sparkman was the father of the Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville and delivered hallmark legislation that afforded housing for Americans as Chairman of the Banking and Housing Committee. Senator Shelby, over his 32-plus years in the Senate has chaired the U.S. Senate Banking Committee, Intelligence Committee, and Rules Committee. However, his current perch as Chairman of the Appropriations Committee is unparalleled. Alabama has never had a Chairman of the United States Senate Appropriations Committee, and more than likely never
will again. Meanwhile, the race for the 2020 U.S. Senate is developing very slowly. The Republican field is smaller than what was expected at this point. If someone is going to run they better go ahead and get going. The primaries are just around the corner in early March of next year. The only serious announced candidates thus far are 1st District Congressman Bradley Byrne and former Auburn football coach Tommy Tuberville. Although, within the next few weeks, Secretary of State John Merrill and former Chief Justice Roy Moore are expected to enter the GOP Field. Their entry will change the dynamics of the race to replace Doug Jones.
DEATH NOTICES RAINSVILLE
Sherry Johnson Gilley - 56 of Sylvania, passed away on Monday, June 10. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Friday, June 14 at Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Gary Haymon officiating. Burial followed in Union Grove Cemetery. Visitation was held on Thursday, June 13 and Friday, June 14. She is survived by her husband, James Gilley; two daughters, Tamikah Johnson Holbrook (Jacob) and Mikalah Gilley Jones (Logan); one granddaughter, Caroline Jones; six brothers, six sisters, 27 nieces and nephews and 23 great-nieces and great-nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents Estes & Sue Johnson and her brother Danny Lee Johnson. Gerald Ted Light - 74 of Albertville, passed away on Tuesday, June 4 at his residence. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Friday, June 7 at Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Steve Cornelius officiating. Burial followed in Green’s Chapel Cemetery. Chris Labron Wright - 58 of Fort Payne, passed away on Wednesday, June 5. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Sunday, June 9 at Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. David Smith officiating.
Burial followed in Green Haven Memorial Gardens.
Cemetery with Pastor Frankie Carroll officiating.
Bill Moody - 82 of Rainsville, passed away on Friday, June 7 at his residence. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Saturday, June 8 at Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. David Martin officiating. Burial followed in Rainsville Memorial Park.
Kathleen Stanley - 89 of Henagar, passed away on Monday, June 10 at her residence. Funeral services were held at 10am on Wednesday, June 12 at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel with Bro. Darrell Sears officiating. Burial followed in Chattanooga National Cemetery.
Sam Whitton - 87 of Trenton, Ga., passed away on Saturday, June 8 at The Health Center at Standifer Place. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Monday, June 10 at Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel. Burial followed in Rainsville Memorial Park. Francis Marie Slaten Boleman - 86 of Hixson, Tenn., passed away on Saturday, June 8. A private graveside service will be held at a later date.
CORNER STONE Glen Woodrow Miller - 73 of Henagar, passed away on Wednesday, June 5 at his residence. Bobby Jack Fowler - 81 of Ider, passed away on Wednesday, June 5 at Erlanger Medical Center. Funeral services were held at 1pm on Saturday, June 8 at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel with Bro. Chris Pack officiating. Burial followed in Friendship Cemetery with masonic rites. Linda Fay Headrick - 74 of Pisgah, passed away on Saturday, June 8 at her residence. A graveside service was held at noon on Tuesday, June 11 at Pisgah
BURT Jimmy Dale Wigley - 58, passed away on Sunday, June 2. Funeral services were held at 12:30pm on Sunday, June 9 at Burt Chapel-Fort Payne with Revs. Kirby Taylor and Joshua Wells officiating. Burial followed in Walker’s Chapel Cemetery.
WT WILSON Stephen Huddleston - 74 of Rainsville, passed away on Wednesday, June 5. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Saturday, June 8 at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel with Bros. Jason Bell and Josh Little officiating. Burial followed in Town Creek Cemetery. Steven Ray Sanders - 48 of Pisgah, passed away on Wednesday, June 5. Funeral services were held at 1pm on Friday, June 7 at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel with Bro. Mike Wilks officiating. Burial followed in Brown’s Chapel Cemetery. Wanda Faye Stutzman
- 67 of Fort Payne, passed away on Thursday, June 6. A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Burial followed in Macedonia Cemetery.
Willie James Clark Jr. - 67 of Gadsden, passed away on Thursday, June 6. A memorial service was held at 4pm on Sunday, June 9 at Grace Pointe Church of God in Centre.
Brian Martin Barry - 71 of Albertville, passed away on Thursday, June 6 at Shepherd’s Cove Hospice. A memorial service will be held in St. Peters, Mo. at a later date.
Gary Wayne Smith - 58 of Dayton, Tenn., passed away on Saturday, June 8 at Memorial Hospital. Funeral services were held at 11am on Tuesday, June 11 at Kerby Funeral Home Chapel. Burial followed in Pea Ridge Cemetery.
Bracie Nell Guice - 84 of Crossville, passed away on Sunday, June 9 at Collinsville Nursing Home. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Wednesday, June 12 at Geraldine Funeral Home Chapel with Tyler Guice officiating. Burial followed in Geraldine Cemetery.
Elmer Theodore “Butch� Bishop - 90 of Pisgah, passed away on Monday, June 10 at Collinsville Health & Rehab. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Thursday, June 13 at Kerby Funeral Home Chapel with Bros. James Hutchison and Wes McBride officiating. Burial followed in Green Haven Memorial Gardens.
James Goggans - 71 of Greenville, S.C., formerly of Geraldine, passed away on Thursday, June 6. Funeral services were held at 3pm on Sunday, June 9 at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel with Bros. Jason Goggans, Kenneth Goggans and Austin Goggans officiating. Burial followed in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery. Temmy Ladon Moses - 59 of Powell, passed away on Friday, June 7. Funeral services were held at 2pm on Wednesday, June 12 at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel with Bro. Cates Noles officiating. Burial followed in Trinity (Burnt Church) Cemetery. Kathryn Izell - 93 of Henagar, passed away on Saturday, June 8. Funeral services were held at 10am on Thursday, June 13 at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel. Burial followed in Unity Cemetery. William Luther Clements - 89 of Section, passed away on Monday, June 10. Funeral services were held at noon on Wednesday, June 12 at WT Wilson Funeral Chapel.
Joseph K. McNew, D.V.M • Linda Galbraith, D.V.M. • Jessica Jones, D.V.M.
Your loyal companion, Our dedicated focus!
BURT
BURT
THE FISHERMEN SOUTHERN GOSPEL QUARTET For Bookings call: Glenn Smith (256) 572-6146
6
FRIDAY — JUNE 14, 2019
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
TRAVEL BY MISTY MISTY HARMON, CTC
256.996.1614 • TRAVELBYMISTY@GMAIL.COM • WWW.TRAVELBYMISTY.COM (BY APPOINTMENT ONLY)
Hairston wins Alabama State Games
COKER NAMED COACH OF THE YEAR By Marla Jones Sports Editor
By Marla Jones, Sports Editor HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — For the first time ever, the Alabama State Games introduced the Ninja Challenge. Aubriella Hairston recently won at last week’s event in Huntsville in the Kids’ Division. The ASF Foundation was founded in 1982 at the request of the United States Olympic Committee. In addition to developing the Alabama State Games, an annual Olympic-style sporting event for the state of Alabama showcasing the tradition and ceremony of the International Summer and Winter Olympic Games, the ASF Foundation serves as a statewide mentor organization for teaching our youth the importance of academics, athletics, healthy lifestyles, and good citizenship. Hairston was also the Regional Qualifier to advance to the Ultimate Ninja Athletic Association (UNAA) World Series Championship in Mystic Lake, Mo. this July. According to www.ultimateninja.net, the Ultimate Ninja Athlete Association (UNAA), is the officialy Global League of World OCR for Ninja Competitions. UNAA promotes and organizes an international series at Ninja Obstacle course Gyms and competitions across the world. The UNAA World Series includes Area Qualifiers, Regional Qualifiers and the Ultimate Ninja World Championship Finals each year. Aubriella is the daughter of Royce Chris Hairston and Rhea Armstrong Krueger. All of us at Southern Torch would like to wish Aubriella the best of luck in her upcoming endeavors!
COLLINSVILLE, Ala. — The Alabama Sports Writers Association (ASWA) recently named Collinsville Head Softball Coach James Coker as the Class 2A Coach of the Year. Under Coker's leadership, the Lady Panthers made it to the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) state tournament.
A STAR IS BORN T.J. Gillespie & Liam Crawford are this week's Southern Torch Stars of the Week! T.J. is 5 and played for the Fyffe Flames. Liam is 9 and plays soccer in the Fort Payne Youth League. Submit your photos to Sports Editor Marla Jones at marla@ southerntorch.com for a chance to be featured as next week's Star of the Week!
COACHING CHANGES AT CROSSVILLE Johnson named Varsity Volleyball Coach By Marla Jones Sports Editor CROSSVILLE, Ala. — At Monday’s meeting of the DeKalb County Board of Education, Coach Ariel Johnson was awarded the Crossville Varsity Volleyball Head Coach position. Johnson, a Geraldine alumni, played on the Geraldine Volleyball Team under the leadership of famed Coach Christie Brothers. Johnson has been on staff at Crossville as a math teacher but will serve as the AP Computer Science teacher in the new school year.
KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY By Marla Jones, Sports Editor
CROSSVILLE, Ala. — In Monday’s meeting of the Dekalb County Board of Education, Jessie Martin was announced as the new Varsity Lady Lions Head Basketball Coach. Martin is a Fyffe High School alumni where he was a member of the Fyffe Varsity Basketball team under the leadership of Coach Neal Thrash. Martin previously served as the Assistant Coach at Oxford High School for three years before coming home to Dekalb County to serve as an assistant with the basketball team at Crossville for the past year. Wife, Molly Willamson Martin will join her husband on the court as the Assistant Head JV and Varsity Basketball Coach. Coach Molly Martin is no stranger on the basketball court, as she played on the 2008 State Championship team for the Crossville Lions. The Martins also serve as youth ministers at Crossville First Baptist.
• • • •   • •
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
FRIDAY — JUNE 14, 2019
7
8
FRIDAY — JUNE 14, 2019
THE SOUTHERN TORCH
256.844.2210
USED CAR SALES 2013 FORD TAURUS SEL
2017 HYUNDAI ACCENT SE
2014 RANGE ROVER SUV
$8,995
$12,895
$41,995
2016 CHEVY EQUINOX LT
2015 FORD F-150 XLT PICKUP
2014 CHEVY CAPTIVA SPORT
$13,695
$23,995
$12,995
2002 FORD EXPLORER XLT
2012 CHEVY SILVERADO 1500
2014 CADILLAC CTS LUXURY
$3,995
$13,995
$16,995
WWW.BOBBYLEDBETTER.COM