ST Vol 9 No 12

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

VALLEY HEAD, Ala.--(Full video on Southern Torch) The Town of Valley Head held a Special Called Meeting on Monday, March 20, to discuss the duties of suspended Volunteer Fire Chief, Dustin Burt.

Southern Torch reached out to Mayor Mike Key on Wednesday, March 15 for his reasoning for the suspension of Dustin Burt.

Mayor Key stated that after a tour of the Fire Hall and a review of the trucks, he elected to suspend Burt from his title as Chief for a period of thirty days. He was not to represent himself as Chief but he could still volunteer as a firefighter.

occur by reason of death, resignation, removal, or any other cause, the president (or mayor pro-tem) of the Council shall assume the duties of the office of mayor effective on the date such vacancy occurs and shall serve as acting mayor until a new mayor is elected.

Mayor Pro-Tem Felicia Harrison will serve as acting Mayor until a new Mayor can be appointed.

Council member Anthony (A.C.) Windom

abatements to Nucor on an investment of $6,641,000. (Resolution 2023-05)

Adam Watkins of Nucor thanked Fort Payne for their commitment to their company.

Mayor Brian Baine spoke of the Council and his recent visit to Washington, DC. The three main topics discussed with officials were the overpass, Joe’s Truck Stop, and Gault Avenue Downtown. The Mayor along with the Council requested funding for a feasibility study for these projects.

Councilman Chris Busby asked for a special called meeting after the suspension left the Town of Valley Head without a Chief and no successor named.

As the crowd began to gather at the meeting, Mayor Key stated that the Fire Marshall would only allow twenty people to be in the council chambers. That number included the four council members in attendance and the Mayor, the Town Clerk Debra Rhodes, and Town Attorney Patrick Tate. Four media representatives from various outlets along with those who were placed on the agenda to speak claimed their chairs, which only left five empty seats.

At the time of the meeting, all requests had been submitted to Senator Katie Britt, Senator Tommy Tuberville, and to U.S. Representative Robert Aderholt.

Mayor Baine updated the Council on projects within the City.

Specifications will be reviewed for the Fort Payne Police Department and then will be submitted

Hometown banking, wherever you are!

Nix Receives 60 years for Murder

arrested, after his wife, Candus Bowes was shot and killed during a domestic argument. The incident occurred at their residence in Hollywood.

Visit Pisgah Alabama

By Marla Ballard Reporter JACKSON

COUNTY - English

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

SCOTTSBORO, Ala.-- In 2019, Jeremiah Adam Nix was

On the third day of the jury trial, Nix changed his plea and pleaded guilty to murder. He received a 60-year sentence and will be eligible for parole in fifteen years.

All-State Basketball

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

MONTGOMERY, Ala.-- The Alabama Sports Writers Association (ASWA) released the All-State

Basketball Teams on Sunday, March 20. Athletes from Jackson are as follows:

GIRLS

Kallie Tinker, PisgahClass 2A 1st Team

Kaina King, Skyline -

Class 1A 2nd Team

BOYS

Chandler Sullivan, NSM - Class 2A 1st Team

Tyson Sexton, Scottsboro - Class 5A 2nd Team

Sullivan named Finalist for Player of the Year

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

HIGDON, Ala. -North Sand Mountain senior,

Chandler Sullivan is one of three finalists for the Alabama Sports Writer (ASWA) Class 2A Boys Basketball Player of the Year. This

season Sullivan averaged 19.5 points, 16.5 rebounds, 2.7 blocked shots and 1.6 assists per game for the NSM Bison.

Hollywood’s Restaurant Ribbon Cutting

poet Thomas Tusser is noted for saying, “April showers bring May flowers.” While this may be true, what is also true is April showers bring My waterfalls. Everyone seems to boo and hiss at the weatherman for predicting more rain, but for a ataractophile, rain means it’s time to visit a waterfall.

Hidden away in a town with a population of under 1,000, where white settlers first came in the 1830s is the town of Pisgah. Pisgah sits at an elevation of 1, 375 feet above sea level and is the only town in Jackson County to receive its water from an artesian well rather than from the Tennessee River. However, what Pisgah is best known for are its Gorge and waterfalls.

The Pisgah Gorge was formed by the erosion of two creeks, Little Bryant Creek and Big Bryant Creek which drop over 1,000 feet within just a couple of miles and eventually merge and become Jones Creek in the valley.

Visitors will not find signs pointing the way to the falls, a tourist needs to look for signs going to the Civitan Park. Access to the trails that lead to the falls is through Pisgah Civitan Park. In the late 60s the Civitan

The club purchased the 40 acres surrounding the Gorge and maintain the walking trails to the three main lookout points. Additionally, the property hosts a park, baseball field, pavilion, and amphitheater.

overlook has a railing the lower overlook does not have fencing. Summertime views are less impressive due to being obscured by vegetation.

Hollywood’s Restaurant recently had a grand opening and ribbon cutting. The restaurant will serve delicious burgers, wings, pizza and more and is located at 104 Adams Street Unit D &

Submitted Article

MONTGOMERY,

Ala. – The Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR) on Tuesday announced plans to issue Summer Pandemic EBT (P-EBT) benefits to an estimated 530,000 children who receive free or reduced-price school meals through the National School Lunch Program.

Qualifying households will get $120 for each participating student to buy SNAP-eligible food at stores that accept Electronic Benefit

E, Stevenson. OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK:

Monday-Thursday: 11:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m., Friday & Saturday: 11:00 a.m.-midnight, and Sunday 11:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Owners, Ron and

Transfer (EBT) cards. The benefits are expected to start rolling out in mid-to-late summer.

“Inflation has transformed each grocery trip into a balancing act for low-income families struggling to afford food for their children on top of other costs like housing and transportation,” said Alabama DHR Commissioner Nancy Buckner. “Every dollar of support from programs like P-EBT strengthens their spending power and weakens the prospect

of hunger while promoting nutritious meals for children.”

Summer P-EBT benefits are limited to students who receive free or reduced-price meals from the National School Lunch Program by application

One unique feature of the Gorge is that hemlocks, which normally grow in colder climates are indigenous to the area. Botanists from across the country have come to study the rare plants found there. The Gorge also offers three waterfalls and a natural bridge that connects both sides. Two of the waterfalls are at least 100 feet in height.

There is a hand-drawn map just past the gate to help guide hikers. The length of the trail is 1.5 miles and is an out-and-back trail with spur paths. The trail is open year-round and is considered moderately challenging with a 200-foot gain, sections can be a bit risky. The first overlook is safe for dogs, but seasoned hikers suggest no further for dogs or children.

While dogs are welcome, they must be leashed. While the first

schools. Applications for the lunch program must be approved by May 16 to qualify for Summer P-EBT benefits. Families should contact their schools with any questions about eligibility.

Directions: AL 40 intersects AL 71 east of Scottsboro and south of Pisgah. Follow AL 71 North for 2.4 miles. Then, turn left onto County Road 58. In another 2.2 miles, after entering the Pisgah city limits, turn left onto the dead-end County Road 374. The entrance to Pisgah Civitan Park is 0.6 a mile down the road on the left. If the gate is open, drive 0.1 to the gravel parking area, otherwise park at the gate. Bears have been seen in the area, so speaking (making noise) while walking so as not to alarm them is suggested. Letting others know where you are hiking and when to expect you back is always a wise course to take. Go to www.alltrails.com for current updates on the conditions of trails.

case additional benefits are added in the future.

Eligible families are encouraged to monitor dhr.alabama.gov for updates, including information about a timeframe for the arrival of benefits.

or through the Community Eligibility Provision, Provision 2 or Provision 3.

To become eligible for Summer P-EBT, families may apply for the National School Lunch Program by contacting their

Households with eligible students who received P-EBT benefits previously will access Summer P-EBT benefits on their existing EBT cards.

Those who are new to the National School Lunch Program will get EBT cards in the mail.

All recipients should keep their EBT cards in

DHR oversees the distribution of P-EBT benefits with assistance from the Alabama State Department of Education. The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service administers the program at the federal level.

Keri Maffei

Local Farmer Participates In Legislative Conference

History Of Little River Canyon

By Marla Ballard Reporter

WASHINGTON,

D.C. -- DeKalb County

farmer Toby McCormick joined 140 fellow Alabama Farmers Federation members for the Washington Legislative Conference March 7-10

in Washington, D.C.

The farm leaders visited Capitol Hill to talk about policy, issues facing Alabama agriculture, and more.

During a Congressional Breakfast on March 9, farmers met with their

respective congressional representatives. McCormick is pictured with U.S. Congressman Robert Aderholt, R-Alabama, who represents the 4th Congressional District.

First Impact Award Winners

DEKALB COUNTY - Tourists and locals alike enjoy the beauty of the 11-mile-long, 600-foot-deep canyon known as Little River Canyon. The 22-mile drive along the rim is impressive. Visitors admire the Little River Falls as it cascades over a 45-foot drop. The canyon offers varied recreational opportunities, from hiking and biking to kayaking and fishing.

The canyon is also a sanctuary for flora and fauna which include rare and endangered species such as the bald eagle, the green salamander, and the mountain laurel. The river is said to be among the cleanest and wildest waterways in the South, undammed aside from a small deserted hydroelectric project at DeSoto Falls on the West Fork near Mentone.

However, in addition to enjoying the scenic value consideration to the footsteps that are being traced sheds new light on the surroundings. The canyon has been the home to Native

Public Meeting

The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) will conduct a public involvement meeting on March 28 from 5-7 p.m. at the Fort Payne City Hall Auditorium to discuss a proposed runaway truck ramp at the bottom of Hwy. 35 downtown.

Collinsville Drugs

“Caring for you like family”

March 25, Storytellers TourMentone AL. 7PM cantral time. Moon Lake Village Presents performers Time Jackson, Dan Smalley, and Mother Tupelo. $20 door charge.

March 31, Games at Granna’s Goodies - Board Gamers hobbyist or casual players, all are welcome. Come play for an hour or stay until we shut it down.

Friends and family community event.

Location: Granna’s Goodies in Rainsville AL. Along with board games there will be snacks and drinks ready to purchase from Granna’s. 7PM - 11PM

$5 PARTICIPATION fee, bring a game to play and get a participation fee waived. Preregister and find out more information on the website. www. boardtogether.info

Find

Master Gardenerswill have their Annual Spring Plant and Vegetable Plant Sale at the VFW Fairgrounds located at 151 18th Street NE Fort Payne AL. The sale will include hundreds of heirloom and hybrid vegetable plants, herbs, native and evergreen azaleas, rhododendrons, ferns, hydrangeas, hollies, buckeyes, magnolias, purple beauty berry, perennials, annuals, and many more plants. Proceeds from the plant sale go toward community projects. Bring your boxes and containers to fill them up at great prices. The sale will be on Saturday, April 8th, starting at 7:00 am –12:00 pm. Cash and/or

check with ID ONLY.

April 15, Meet

A Machine - Meet a Machine is designed to provide the public with the opportunity to see, touch and learn about vehicles used by public service agencies and local businesses. These vehicles include emergency response vehicles, planes, aircraft equipment, construction equipment, etc. Food will be available for purchase.

All proceeds will benefit the DeKalb County Children’s Advocacy Center. Adult tickets are $5. Children are free. Tickets are available at https:// meetamachinefp. ticketleap.com/ meetamachinefp/ details.

April 22, Alabama

Federation of Garden Clubs - NE Alabama

Federation of Garden Clubs is having its yearly Spring plant sale on Saturday, April 22 from 9am-12pm at the community center in Henegar City Park, Located on Hwy 75, just South of its junction with Hwy 40.

April 27, Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical at Northeast Alabama Community College - Packed with high-energy dance numbers, catchy songs and an unforgettable star turn for a young actress, Matilda is a joyous girl power romp. Children and adults alike will be thrilled and delighted by the story of the special little girl with an extraordinary imagination.. Visit nacc.edu for tickets!

April 27Family Services of North AlabamaStrengthening Families and Communities

Americans, Civil War soldiers, and railroad builders, all of which left behind traces of their history and culture. When standing on the rim of the canyon many visitors are unaware of the steps they are tracing.

Little River falls resides on the line that divides Fort Payne from Gaylesville. In 1864, after General

W.T. Sherman claimed Atlanta, he fought with Hood’s forces across Little River. Sherman eventually arrived in Gaylesville on October 21, 1864, and reported he had about 60,000 men in the Little River-Gaylesville area.

Sherman’s force withdrew from the Little River area on October 29, 1864. It was here that Sherman finalized his plans for a march through Georgia.

In 1890 Colonel Woolsey Finnell, in charge of a surveying party laying out the railroad through Shinbone Valley, visited the Little River Canyon and remarked, “Why go to Colorado to see the Royal Gorge? Little River Gorge is far more scenic.”

Railroad spur lines connected Lookout

Mountain ore mines to valley furnaces. The railroad was eventually known as the Tennessee, Alabama, and Georgia Rail Line (TAG Rail Lines).

Colonel Finnell ran the railroad about a mile from the southern end of the canyon. The scenic route ran the length of Lookout Mountain from Chattanooga to Gadsden.

The line went bankrupt and was reorganized in 1895 and again in 1902. Sometime between 1930 and 1951, the TAG Rail Line discontinued passenger service. In 1971, the line was purchased by the Southern Railway System and segments were abandoned in the 1980s.

Whenever visiting an area take the time to look up the history of the area. Print it whenever possible and carry it along on the trip and relive and track the steps of those who went beforehand. Seeing whose steps are being traced gives new meaning to the path being taken.

For information on the Native Americans that lived along the canyon go online to Trail of Tears, Little River Canyon National Preserve.

Training - FREE.

8a-2p Training is for anyone who works with parents, children or families in a professional or volunteer role. This program will help you identify characteristics that make families stronger and child abuse and neglect less likely.

5.75 CEUS sherrie@ familyservicesna.org

April 29, Sowing

Seeds of Hope

Alabama ConcertThe SAM Foundation

Saturday, April 29th

Sweet Seasons Farm

Featuring: Boys in the Band Dad Company The Locals Lion’s Club

Virtual 5K Deadline to Register April 1.

Please help support our local Lions they do so so much for our community.

May 5, 31st

Annual Wildflower

Saturday - Wildflower

Saturday is an annual

event held in DeSoto State Park atop Lookout Mountain in Fort Payne, Alabama, always the first Saturday of May. Join DeSoto State Park staff & guest speakers for a wonderful weekend of learning about the many species of blooming plants found on Lookout Mountain. June 24, ‘Creek Kids’ Watershed Workshop - Learning about our water….not just for kids! Hosted by DeSoto State Park Experience a view of Little River’s watershed and how it connects to the rest of Alabama and our oceans. Many species of fish and aquatic invertebrates, including some types of crayfish, mussels, and snails, live only in Alabama. Participants of all ages 10:00-3:00 p.m. free to participate!

SYLVANIA PHARMACY

Laurel, MS.— The Fort Payne Gigawatts attended the 2023 Magnolia Regional First Robotics Competition and for the first time in Alabama history, the Fort Payne Gigawatts earned two blue banners. They are honored to be the first Alabamian FIRST Impact Award winners. The Gigawatts finished in 5th place and will advance to the playoffs.

COUNTY, ALABAMA

CASE NO.: CV-2023900033.00

TIMOTHY T. MORROW and wife, CHERYL J. MORROW, Plaintiffs vs.

Commence at a 5/8 inch rebar found at the purported Southwest corner of Lot 10 in the said Cloudmont Park Subdivision recorded in Plat Book 3 at Page 97 in Section 7, Township 6 South, Range 11 East, Huntsville Meridian, DeKalb County, Alabama; thence run South 79 deg 00 minutes 00 seconds West for a distance of 65.93 feet to a point on the East ROW of DeKalb County Road No. 106 (60 foot ROW); thence run North 00 deg 24 minutes 06 seconds East for a distance of 57.72 feet to point on the East ROW of said DeKalb County Road No. 106 (60 foot ROW); thence continue to run along said ROW North 15 deg 27 minutes 25 seconds

By Steve Flowers

Alabama’s original 1901 Constitution had a law whereby the governor could only serve one four-year term and not succeed themselves. In 1968, the law was changed and since then the governor and all other constitutional offices in the state can now serve two consecutive terms. This one term and you are done, made for a very interesting, anticipated, and competitive governor’s race every four years. They could begin four years in advance in earnest, and they would begin.

Since Kay Ivey will be serving her second elected term, she cannot run four years from now. Therefore, we have setting up an ole timey open governor’s race in 2026, and it has already begun.

Lt. Governor Will Ainsworth has already been running for four years, and has ramped up a reelection game plan for his next four

West for a distance of 15.45 feet to a 5/8 inch rebar found on the East ROW of said DeKalb County Road No. 106 (60 foot ROW) and the point of beginning; thence run along said ROW North 15 deg 37 minutes 02 seconds West for a distance of 71.95 feet to a 5/8 inch rear found on said ROW; thence run North 56 deg 00 minutes 00 seconds East for a distance of 27.47 feet passing through a half inch rebar found next to a green tee post, to the original Northwest corner of Lot 11 in said Cloudmont Park Subdivision; thence run along said West line of said Lot 11 South 31 deg 33 minutes East for a distance of 80.00 feet to the original Southwest corner of said Lot 11; thence run South 70 deg 00 minutes West for a distance of 48.17 feet to a 5/8 inch rebar found on the East ROW of said DeKalb County Road No. 106 (60 foot ROW); and the point of beginning, containing 0.065 acres more or less.

and Fictitious Defendants

“A” through “F” whose names and addresses are unknown, and any and all unknown parties, including any persons claiming any present interest therein and including any persons claiming any future, contingent, reversionary, remainder, or other interest therein, who may claim any interest in the abovedescribed property, Defendants

NOTICE BY PUBLICATION

PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT NOTICE HEREBY IS GIVEN

TO: Any and all persons claiming any present interest in the real property described above, and including any persons claiming any reversionary, remainder, or other interest therein, who may claim interest in this real property. The Plaintiffs have filed a Verified Complaint to Quiet Title in the Circuit Court of Dekalb County, Alabama in Case Number CV2023-900033.00 against the lands described above and against any or all parties listed

above to establish the right and title of the Plaintiffs to the lands and to clear up all doubts or disputes concerning the same. Therefore, the Defendants and any persons claiming and interest in the real property must file an Answer to the Complaint in writing in the Circuit Court of Dekalb County, Alabama by May 15, 2023 or suffer default judgment against them. The Plaintiffs request that the Court will make and enter all orders, judgments, and decrees that may be necessary or proper in the premises, and upon a final hearing thereon, the Plaintiffs request that the Court will make and enter a decree that the Plaintiffs have the entire and undivided fee simple interest in the lands. The Plaintiffs further request such other, further, different, or general relief as they may be entitled in the premises.

Dated this the 8th day of March, 2023.

/s/ TODD GREESON Circuit Clerk

Said notice to be published March 17, 24, 31, & April 7

The Town of Fyffe is hereby requesting proposals for bushhogging/mowing for approximately 6 miles of the street right of way in the Town of Fyffe.

This work will be expected to be performed as needed (usually twice per year depending on rain and growth maybe more).

The provider shall provide proof of insurance for the term of the agreement.

The provider must have General Liability Coverage of no less than $1,000,000 (one million) aggregate and $500,000 (five hundred thousand) each occurrence.

The provider will be responsible for providing their own fuel and equipment. This bid is for bushhogging/mowing the right of ways for the Town of Fyffe. The bid must include a price per mowing. Bid quotes must be sent to Town of Fyffe P.O. Box 8 Fyffe, AL 35971, no later than April 7, 2023, at 4 p.m.

All bids must be submitted in sealed envelopes and labeled “Bushhogging Bid.” Bids not received by the stated deadline will be rejected.

The Town of Fyffe Mayor and Council reserve the right to reject any and all bids.

Bid opening will take place at the April 10, 2023 regular Council Meeting.

Any questions regarding the bid are to be directed to: Brandi Clayton, Town Clerk 256-623-7298 or fyffetownclerk@ farmerstel.com.

March 24, & 31

Inside The Statehouse 2026 Governor’s Race Has Begun

CASE NO.: 2023- 84

Letters of Testamentary on the Estate of Billy Roy Denton, Deceased, having been granted to the undersigned on the 21 day of March, 2023, by the 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. Said notice to be published March 24, 31, & April 7

VIN

1XPBDP9X4KD613805

Make/Model Peterbilt/579

Year 2019

Date and Time of Sale

3/20/2023 8:00 am

Location of Sale 1207 Gault Ave S Fort Payne, AL 35967

Ainsworth are both from Marshall County. If the Attorney General makes the move, he would be a viable candidate. He won his second term in this year’s GOP Primary, impressively. He has to move up or sideways or out. An intra county race would be interesting. Marshall bears watching.

years as Lt. Governor. He will be tough to beat. Ainsworth was elected Lt. Governor in 2018 at the ripe old age of 36. He began running for governor the day after he won the GOP Primary that year – even before he was inaugurated in January 2019. I have never seen anyone in recent years as dedicated and focused on grabbing the brass ring of Alabama politics as young Will Ainsworth. He is almost as dedicated as

DeKalb Animal Hospital

Emergency: (256)845-3031

George Wallace.

Wallace’s whole world and every part of his being was dedicated to being elected Governor of Alabama. He campaigned seven days a week, 12 hours a day and hardly saw or cared for his family for four years. He campaigned relentlessly. His devotion paid off with a victory in 1962 and subsequent conquests later.

Young Will Ainsworth does not have this total devotion, nor should he or anyone else.

Ainsworth is a devoted family man. His family and church come first. Being governor is not his God. He is the ultimate father to his twin sons, Hunter and Hays, and his daughter, Abbie. He and his wife Kendall are committed to loving and caring for their children. They go to all ball games and church and school

related events with them in Guntersville. At the State-of-theState Address four years ago, he had his two sons with him. They have impeccable manners. They looked me right in the eye with a smile and firm handshake and said, “Nice to meet you, Mr. Flowers.” One of the boys was with Will when he spoke at the Trump rally in the summer of 2021. Will had been to his son’s ballgame in Cullman that morning and he brought him to the rally.

When Will spoke at the Mid-Alabama Republican Club in Vestavia last July, his daughter was with him. Ainsworth is campaigning all over the state. He is at ribbon cuttings and Chambers of Commerce events from Dothan to Huntsville. He hails from Sand Mountain in vote rich North Alabama. His

father has done well financially. However, his mama has instilled in Will the desire to serve in politics. She is very astute and active politically and more gregarious than Will’s father.

There are others lining up to run who do not fear Ainsworth nor his family’s money. Interestingly, the two major potential threats to Ainsworth in the four-year away governor’s race, are from North Alabama.

Attorney General Steve Marshall and Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle would make a strong threat to Ainsworth’s perceived front runner status.

Ironically, Steve Marshall and Will

Tommy Battle, the Mayor of Huntsville, would be the most formidable candidate that Ainsworth could face. However, I do not think Battle is interested in running. Being the Mayor of Huntsville is probably a better job than being Governor of Alabama.

However, the biggest obstacle in Ainsworth’s run for governor may be someone you have ever heard of. There are probably some rich folks sitting back privately contemplating a run for governor. That unknown rich person may be the one to watch. We will see.

Four years seems a long way off, but the 2026 Governor’s Race has begun. See you next week.

Wydene

Brisendine - 96, of Fort Payne, passed away Friday, March 17, 2023. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Sunday. Burial will follow in Union Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends Saturday from 4 until 7 p.m. at Wilson Funeral Home.

Mary Stringer Abney - 95 of Chattanooga, TN passed away on March 19, 2023. Graveside services for Mary Abney will be at 2:30 P.M., on Wednesday, March 22, 2023.

William Grant Shepard - born on March 6, 1952 in Jacksonville, Florida and passed February 24, 2023 Burial and memorial services will be held March 4, 2023 at 2 pm at Hancock Funeral Home in Fort Meade, Florida. A memorial service will be held at the First Methodist Church of Collinsville on Saturday March 25, 2023 at 2:00 pm.

March 23, 2023 at 1:00 PM CDT.

Gregory Eugene Vickers - 69 of Huntsville died Thursday, March 16 at Cloverdale Health and Rehab. Family will have a memorial service at a later date.

Tammy Marlene Hughes - 55 of Flat Rock died Thursday, March 16 at her residence. Funeral services are Sunday at 2 PM CT at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel with Bro. Mark Finlayson officiating. Burial will follow in Liberty Hill Cemetery.

Crystal Inez

Durham Haynes - 39 of Sulphur Springs died Friday, March 17 at Dekalb Regional Medical Center. Funeral services are Monday at 2 PM CT. Burial will follow in Sulphur Springs Cemetery.

Clyde Vinson Powell - 76, of Crossville, AL, passed away on March 18, 2023 at Shepherd’s Cove Hospice. Funeral service is Wednesday, March 22, 2023 at 11:00 AM in Geraldine Funeral Chapel with Phillip Gilliland officiating.

do. Always a Georgia Bulldog fan, she took pride in displaying the Red & Black amid all the Auburn and Alabama fans she lived among for 25 years.

Cindy passed peacefully on Saturday, March 4, surrounded by family, following a two-year struggle with ovarian cancer. She remained positive and high spirited throughout her treatment. She will be greatly missed, but we rejoice in the knowledge that she is in the arms of Jesus now and is pain free.

Cindy leaves behind her beloved daughter, Sarah Anderson “Say”.

Gail “Patsy”

Williams - finished her race on this earth on Tuesday, March 14th

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Sunday, March 19, 2023 at Scottsboro Funeral Home.

William Brian Woodall - 64, peacefully passed away on March 16, 2023, at Highland Health and Rehab in Scottsboro, Alabama.

Brandi Renee Paradise - 39, passed away on March 17, 2023, at her home in Skyline, Alabama.

Joseph Wade Harrison - 35 of Fort Payne, passed away Thursday, March 15, 2023. Funeral Services will be held at 2pm on Sunday, March 19, 2023.

Jayla LaKay Willis Miller - 51, of Union Grove passed away on Tuesday, March 14, 2023. Funeral services are set for 2pm Saturday, March 18, 2023.

Service on Thursday,

Joyce Roden - 79 of Crossville passed away Tuesday, March 14, 2023 at her home. Her funeral service will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 18, at Crossville Memorial Chapel. Burial will follow at Mt. Flat Cemetery. Rev. Joe Davis will officiate the service.

Cynthia Rogers Anderson “Cindy” or “CiCi” - was born and raised in Marietta, GA, where she graduated from Sprayberry High School in 1973. She worked as a Dental Assistant for 25 years in Georgia, and after moving to Rainsville Alabama in 1997 she worked as a Manager for the DeKalb County Counsel on Aging for 4 years, as a Tech at IHS Pharmacy for 2 years, and retired from Horizon Bank in 2015 after 13 years there as a Teller.

Cindy was loyal to a fault and fiercely protective of those she loved. She was a sweet, kind and courteous soul. She had a dry wit, was a master of quick comebacks, and had a mischievous sense of humor. You could tell from the twinkle in her eyes what she was thinking or about to

Sisters Jonnie Rogers Branch “JuJu”; and Vickie Rogers Fischer “BeBe” (Todd). Uncle, Clinton D. Carlile “Uncle Duck” (Aunt Dot), niece, Nikki Branch Foy “Sissy” (Chris), niece, Hannah Peige Fischer “Boo Boo”, Sister Cousin, Regina Bradley (Gary), and numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. Cindy was preceded in death by her husband, Gary Steven Anderson; mother, Emmalene Carlile Rogers; and father, John Herbert Rogers. Per Cindy’s wishes, she will be cremated and a memorial will be conducted at Crossview Baptist Church, 1100 Piedmont Road, Marietta, Georgia on Saturday, March 25. Visitation with family will begin at 1:00 p.m. ET, followed by the memorial at 2:00 p.m. ET. Rainsville Funeral Home, Inc. announcing, www. rainsvillefuneralhome. com.

Funeral Services will be Monday March 20, 2023 at 2:00 pm.

Paulette Gann White - 69, of Section, Alabama passed away on March 18, 2023 after a prolonged illness. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 25, 2023, at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church with Rev. Polly Robb officiating.

Billy Dwain Lindsey aka “Wild Bill” - died on March 19, 2023. Graveside services will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, March 23, 2023, at Trenton Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Thursday, March 23.

Albert Thomas Beeler - 90, of Scottsboro passed away March 20, 2023. The funeral service will be held Friday, March 24, 2023 at Scottsboro Funeral Home. The family will receive friends from 11 am until time of service at 2 PM.

Brent Anthony Word - 33, of Crossville passed away on Thursday, March 16, 2023. Funeral services are set for 4pm Sunday, March 19.

Margaret Anne Handlowick - 87 of Crossville passed away Thursday March 16, 2023. Service will be 3 pm Saturday March 18.

Lindsay Beth Lowery-Garrett - 36 of Fyffe, passed away Friday, March 17, 2023. Funeral Services will be held at 2pm on Monday, March 20.

Thomas Ray Duke - 70 of Horton, Al passed away Saturday March 18, 2023. Family will have a Memorial Service at a later date.

Dorthia Ganell Harris - 79 of Crossville, passed away Saturday, March 18, 2023. Per the wishes of Ms. Harris, no public services are planned at this time.

Gail Lane Roberts Richards - 83 passed away Sunday March 19, 2023. Funeral Service will be Wednesday March 22, at 2 pm.

Resign

FROM PAGE 1

also submitted his resignation, effective March 17. The reason stated was that the position was affecting his health. According to Hammondville Town Clerk, Kim Johnson, he has served on the Council for around four months.

The Council will vote on both resignations at the next Hammondville Town Meeting on April 13.

Nucor

FROM PAGE 1

for bids. Backstops at the Sports Complex are completed, light poles are being installed throughout downtown and the wall in front of the police department is scheduled to be finished before the June Jam.

The Council suspended the rules for immediate consideration and passed Ordinance 2023-05 which declared the property adjacent to the old Jeffersons as real estate surplus.

The following Resolutions were passed by the Council :

• 2023-06, accepting the low bid for drainpipe.

• 2023-07, accepting the low bid for fuel.

• 2023-08, accepting the low bid for Plant Mix –Binder and 429A-206

• 2023-09, accepting the low bid for Rock and Crushed Limestone.

In new business:

• Carolyn Martin’s term on the Fort Payne Board of Education expires in June. The appointment must be made in April preceding. The Council appointed Martin to serve another term.

• Authorized solicitation of bids for two (2) pickup trucks for the Fire Department.

• Approved an Alcohol License Application to Marcus Carter, The Bottle Shoppe, 1018 Gault Avenue South, Package Store.

The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Fort Payne Council will be held on April 4, beginning at 12:30 p.m. in the council chambers on the second floor of the City Hall.

Chief

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The large crowd that was literally left out in the cold, expressed their dismay over the situation. They stated that the meeting should have been held in the Fire

Hall or at one of the many businesses that offered to open their doors for the meeting.

Citizen Kerry Breihaupt went to the Fire Hall, following the suspension of Burt, to clean up the trash that led to the suspension. She poured a small amount of garbage, that she collected, unto the council table and stated this is what caused the suspension. This led to a move to reinstate Burt by several of the Council members.

The Council members were informed by attorney Pat Tate that they were not empowered to hire or fire a police or fire chief since Valley Head had never adopted an ordinance giving them the power and that only the Mayor had the authority.

Council members asked why had they voted on the appointments in the past, with Tate explaining that Mayor Key had only let them do this as a “political courtesy.”

With the Council not having the authority to hire or fire, Councilman Chris Busby stated that he thought the town needed to hire a Town Manager and get rid of the Mayor and Council positions.

Tate stated that Valley Head could not afford a Town Manager.

“I think this says we have a crooked mayor” Busby stated. “Backwoods town with a crooked lawyer.”

This developed into a heated discussion between Busby and Tate.

“Don’t interrupt me and don’t call me a crook” stated Tate.

Mayor Key presented the council and media handouts, listing the duties of a fire chief.

The first handout dated May 3, 2021:

1. Provide the City Clerk a description of training classes and the location of the classes, the name of each firefighter attending. (The following requirements were added to the January 4 handoutInstructor of the class, subject of the class, and a sign-in sheet with the signature of each firefighter attending.

2. Fire Reports must be turned in to the Clerks office as soon as possible.

3. Collect any and all Valley Head firefighting equipment from volunteers that have not attended a training class or responded in the past 90 days. No exceptions! Provide to the City Clerk’s office the name of

each volunteer and the equipment issued to them!

4. The City of Valley Head has worked hard to provide the equipment needed to ensure fire protection for our city. The equipment WILL be kept clean inside and out! Any repairs needed must be listed and turned in to the Mayor’s office! Trash cans must be emptied as needed!

5. Equipment will not be stored on the floor or desk tops.

The second handout dated January 4, 2023, had the following additions:

1. Provide the City Clerk a description of training classes and the location of the classes, the

and the prices to get the #2 pumper properly equipped with items needed in order to pass ISO requirements. (Firefighters stated that was provided at the August 1, 2022 meeting and equipment was yet to be purchased)

6. The Chief is required to attend all council meetings to provide the Council with a fire report and to answer questions that may be asked of the fire department. (Chief Burt confirmed that he has attended every meeting with the exception of one while he was in training)

Council member Karen Vest went through each requirement of the handouts.

“This list is the

were meetings that fell within the suspension that Burt needed to be at in order to obtain financing for radios that would be part of a county-wide system.

Key stated that he or Mayor Pro Tem Phillips could attend and that Burt did not have to be there.

“By not reinstating him tonight, it could cost the town up to $50,000” stated Busby.

“You can opt out if you want, but it will cost out of pocket when the radio system gets here” stated Burt.

With no agreement met, and Key not appointing a successor, the meeting adjourned with Valley Head not

had to stand out in the cold instead of being able to be inside and voice their opinions. I believe a statement was made though with the number of people who did show up in support” stated Burt. “ I would like to thank not only them but also the number of phone calls and messages of support I have received from all the county. The first responder family is real and strong in Dekalb County because it was not just from firefighters but police officers and EMS personnel from all over the state. We are going to continue to hold our heads high and do what is right for the community and again we want to thank them for their support.”

On Tuesday, Valley Head Town Clerk Debra Rhodes submitted her resignation, effective March 22. She has served as the Valley Head Town Clerk for nearly fifteen years.

“I resigning due to health reasons. Seven years ago, I had triple bypass surgery and the stress is too hard to handle for me” stated Rhodes.

name of each firefighter attending. (The following requirements were added to the January 4 handoutInstructor of the class, subject of the class, and a sign-in sheet with the signature of each firefighter attending.

2. The Chief is responsible to insure that any and all equipment is documented to show that all equipment has proper maintenance (IE) oil checked, motors in running condition, with proper 100% gasoline and or mix of 100% gasoline and two-cycle oil. This is to prevent moisture and corrosion from collecting in the fuel systems of the equipment.

3. The Chief is to provide the Mayor with a list of any and all problems pertaining to the equipment, trucks, and fire hall,

4. The Chief is responsible for the trucks being kept clean inside and out, free from candy wrappers, drink bottles and trash in general.

5. The Chief is to provide a list to the Mayor of the equipment needed

catalyst for all this, right? What else needed to be done so they can get on with this?” stated Vest.

Key remained adamant that the suspension would not be reversed.

Councilmember Busby and Burt stated that there

having a fire chief for the remainder of the suspension.

Dustin Burt made the following statement after the meeting:

“We would like to thank the community and the business owners for the show of support and absolutely hate they

After experiencing some discomfort and a racing heartbeat after the special called meeting, Rhodes stated that she felt that God was giving her a sign that it was time to go. I have cheated death once before [referring to her heart attack seven years ago].

“I plan to go home and enjoy what God has given us,” concluded Rhodes.

Southern Torch will continue to update as this story continues to unfold.

Crossville woman arrested on Child Abuse/Aggravated Abuse

and Aggravated Child Abuse (x3).

The arrest stems from an investigation by the

County Sheriff’s Office along with the Alabama Department of Human Resources on allegations of abuse and neglect, reported in 2021.

said of the incident: “We appreciate everyone that helped with this arrest. Protecting our children will forever be our main focus. Our youth is our future, we have to stand strong in protecting them.”

“God Bless!” Concluded Sheriff Welden.

The trash that led to the suspension of volunteer Fire Chief Dustin Burt Marla Jones | Southern Torch

2022-2023

County Boys

Luke Smith, Plainview - MVP

Colton Wills, Collinsville

Connor Johnson, Geraldine

Dylan Haymon, Plainview

Eli Butts, Fyffe

Hunter Robinson, Valley Head

Jaxon Colvin, Geraldine

Jonah Williams, Plainview

By Marla Jones Sports Writer marla@southerntorch.com

MONTGOMERY, Ala.--

The Alabama Sports Writers Association (ASWA) released the All-State Basketball Teams on Sunday, March 20. Athletes from DeKalb are as follows:

BOYS

Luke Smith (Plainview)

Hatley, Crossville

Landon White, Plainview

Levi Brown, Plainview

Logan Wilks, Sylvania Lucas Bryant, Geraldine

Redick Smith, Geraldine

Honorable Mention:

Cooper Cox, Fyffe

Eli Carter, Fyffe

Gavin Lang, Collinsville

Griffin Weldon, Ider

Kolby Dupree, Valley Head

Class 3A -First Team

Jonah Williams (Plainview) Class 3AFirst Team

Josh Scott (Sylvania)

Class 3A- Third Team Colton Willis (Collinsville) Class 2A-

Third Team

Luke Stephens ( Fort Payne) Class 6AHonorable Mention

GIRLS:

Tyla Tatum (Collinsville)

Class 2A- Honorable Mention

County Girls

Makinley Traylor, Ider – MVP

Ambriel Stopyak, Sylvania

Anna Murdock, Sylvania

Bella Lewis, Valley Head

Cambree Chapman, Ider

Emma Twilley, Fyffe

Gracie Rowell, Plainview

Kaleigh Butler, Geraldine Kami Sanders, Plainview

Sand Mountain Super 6

Lauren

Leianna

Sara

Sawyer

Tyla

Honorable Mention:

Ella Matthews, Crossville

Emily Stevens, Fyffe

Rylee Tillery, Collinsville

Sophia Blair, Valley Head

Yazmin DelaCruz

Crossville

2022-2023 Sand Mountain Super Six - Boys

Dylan Haymon, Plainview Jaxon Colvin, Geraldine Jonah Williams, Plainview

Josh Scott, Sylvania Landon White, Plainview Luke Smith, Plainview

ALL-DeKalb Basketball All-State Basketball

2022-2023 Sand Mountain Super Six - Girls

Kallie Tinker, Pisgah Kami Sanders, Plainview

Lauren Jimmerson, Plainview Leanna Curie, Sylvania

Makinley Traylor, Ider Sawyer Hulgan, Plainview

The Showdown

By Marla Jones Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

HIGDON, Ala.-- The North Sand Moutain Bison defeated the Pisgah Eagles in varsity baseball action on Wednesday, 13-8. Mikey Poss singled on a 3-2 count, scoring one run in the second inning for NSM.

NSM scored in the third when Jackson Burgess doubled on a 2-2 count, scoring one run and Kaden Moore

homered on a 2-1 count, scoring three runs.

After the Pisgah Eagles scored four runs in the top of the fifth, NSM answered with four of their own. Jakob Kirby singled on a 2-2 count, scoring one run, Luke Gilbert singled on the first pitch .scoring one run, Conley Rogers grounded out, scoring one run, and Wes Arnold doubled on a 2-2 count, scoring one run. NSM answered back when Luke Reed

tripled on the first pitch, scoring three runs. Moore took the win from the mound. The right-hander allowed six hits and six runs over four innings, striking out eight.

Reed, Hayden Neil, and Logan Shoemake all put in work in relief out of the bullpen, Shoemake pitched the last two outs to earn the save for the Bison.

Gilbert took the loss for Pisgah Eagles. The righthander went two-thirds of an inning,

All-DeKalb

2022-2023 All-DeKalb

Josh Scott, Sylvania Kaejuan

Kennzie Smith, Ider

Jimmerson, Plainview

Curie, Sylvania

Smith, Geraldine

Hulgan, Plainview

Tatum, Collinsville

Oakland City University

Luke Smith MVP - Plainview Cheryl Boydston | Southern Torch

Plainview had two athletes make the Alabama Sports Writers Association (ASWA) All-State First Team: Luke Smith and Jonah Williams. Cheryl Boydston | Southern Torch

Ider senior, Dylan Grant recently signed to continue his football career with Oakland City University. Cheryl

Makinley Traylor MVP - Ider Cheryl Boydston | Southern Torch

Cheryl Boydston | Southern Torch