ST Vol 9 No 13

By Marla Jones

meeting at Ider High School, on Thursday, March 23.

Prior to the meeting, the DeKalb County Board of Education broke ground at Ider School for the new 21,500-squarefoot gymnasium. The new gym will have a 1,200-

Ider, Ala.-- (Full video on Southern Torch Facebook) The DeKalb County Board of Education held its regularly scheduled approved two headwalls on Maple Avenue and two on Rainbow Avenue to be completed by Boozer and Son Construction.

The Council passed the following Resolutions:

Resolution 03-202023(A) which Surplused

a 2006 Dodge Truck from the Rainsville Public Works Department

Resolution 03-202023(B) which surplused a 2005 Mack Garbage Truck from the Rainsville

person sitting capacity.

“Thank you to all the community members that attended the groundbreaking ceremony for the new gymnasium today. Thank you to Senator Steve Livingston and House Speaker Nathaniel

Ledbetter for securing the funding for this muchneeded facility” stated DeKalb County Superintendent Wayne Lyles.

“We are planning and working diligently to replace the softball field that was moved for this

project. Thank you to Ider Mayor Wendy Hammonds Lassetter and the Ider City Council for assisting in providing a facility for the softball team for this season” concluded Lyles. The following bids

By Marla Jones

Valley Head, Ala.

On Thursday, March 23, human remains were found in Valley Head. The remains were found in a thickly wooded area, on the forest floor by the Huntsville Search Dog Unit, according to DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden. The JSU Center for Applied Forensics also responded to assist. The remains were transported to the Huntsville Forensic Lab for identification purposes. DNA analysis may be

used to help establish the identity of the remains. This testing is mostly used in modern forensic work but DNA in bones and teeth can be used to confirm the remains with descendants.

Forensic anthropologists can use skeletal system knowledge to identify crime victims and often are able to determine the cause of death.

It is a slow process from discovery to identification that often takes weeks or months to complete.

“We would like to thank Huntsville Search Dog Unit, Fischer Rescue

Squad, Valley Head Police Department, Valley Head Fire Department, Local Assisting Fire Departments, DeKalb EMA, District Attorney’s Office, Coroner’s Office, JSU Center for Applied Forensics, and all volunteers who devoted time to search” stated DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden.

“At this time, information is limited, and guidelines must be followed to assure accurate conclusions. Once other information is provided to our office, we will release further information” concluded Welden.

The Ider community, Building Contractors, and DeKalb County Board of Education members gathered for a groundbreaking for the Ider gymnasium. Cheryl Boydston | Southern Torch

Scottsboro PD Warns of Phone Scams

Visit Local Natural Monument

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

SCOTTSBORO, Ala.-- The Scottsboro Police Department has received several reports from citizens that have received calls from someone claiming to be with the Scottsboro Police Department requesting money.

Scottsboro Police want you to know that this is a scam.

Scottsboro Police Department will never call you and request money from you.

If you receive a call from someone claiming to be with the Scottsboro Police Department and they are requesting money, please hang up and call the department at (256)574-3333.

Citizens across the country often fall for these scams and lose

a lot of money, sometimes their entire life savings. Scammers have figured out countless ways to steal your money over the phone. In some scams, they act friendly and helpful. Other times, they might threaten or try to scare you.

Here are a few tips to help you recognize a phone scam.

• If a caller says that you were selected for a prize or you have won the lottery, and you only have to pay to get the prize won, it is a scam.

• Local law enforcement or federal agencies will not arrest, fine, or deport you if you do not pay taxes or some other debt immediately.

• Legitimate businesses will give you time to think over their offer and supply written information before you commit.

Take your time and do not be pressured into making a hasty decision.

• Scammers will often ask you to pay by wiring money, or by sending prepaid or gift cards. Anyone who asks you to pay in this manner is a scammer.

• Government agencies will not call to confirm your sensitive information, such as a Social Security number.

If a company is selling something, it will need your written permission to call you with a robocall. Register with the National Do Not Call Registry to stop live sales calls from companies you have not done business with before.

You can also contact your phone provider to enroll in call blocking.

Boys and Girls Club visit the Jackson Courthouse

By Marla Ballard Reporter

JACKSON

COUNTY - The Russell Cave National Monument is the third largest mapped cave in Alabama, located in Jackson County near the town of Bridgeport.

With a mapped length of 7.2 miles, it ranks 314 on the World Long Cave List.

The grounds offer maintained trails for walking, the area is a station on the North Alabama Birding Trail, a picnic area and public restrooms, and Rangers are on duty to answer questions. The walk to the cave entrance is 2/10 of a mile. More than 115 species of birds have been identified by researchers on the grounds.

The Monument was established on May 11, 1961, by President John F. Kennedy, when 310 acres were donated by the National Geographic Society to the American people. The cave and grounds were placed on the Register of Historic Places on October 15, 1966, and are maintained by the National Park Service. The park serves to

protect one of the most complete records of human occupation in the Southeast US. The archeological record shows one of the longest, continuously used occupation sites in North America.

Members of the Tennessee Archeological Society began excavations in 1953. From 1956-1958 professional work led by Carl Miller working for the Smithsonian Institute dug over 35 feet. In 1962 the National Park Service led a dig 10.5 feet deep. Close to three tons of artifacts have been found. Findings include: pottery, ceramic pieces, stone points, knives, shells, shell jewelry, animal bones, animal bone jewelry, remains of woven basket, and human remains. The cave has also revealed a rare species of scorpion known only to have been discovered in Russell Cave.

Visitors may approach the cave and witness the exceptionally wide entrance that was used as a shelter by Native Americans. The shelter opening is 107 feet wide, 26 feet high

and curves back 270 feet. Sadly, for spelunkers recreational caving is no longer allowed. The cave is prone to sudden flooding causing unstable walls and ceiling. Another reason is to restrict White-nose Syndrome. White-nose Syndrome was first detected in 2006. This fungal outbreak is believed to have already killed over six-million bats. There are eight species of bats known to live on the property at Russell Cave. Bats are crucial to the US agricultural economy. Bats act as a natural pest control for farms and also help control the population of insects that spread disease to humans. There is no known treatment for White-nose Syndrome, the only prevention known is to control the spread by humans. Humans are not affected by the fungus, but are known carriers. The park museum is currently under renovation, but the natural scenery is a unique treat. The park is open from 8 AM4:30 PM daily. Located at 3729 C.R. 98, Bridgeport, AL. Phone 256-495-2672.

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

SCOTTSBORO, ALA.-- The Jackson County Courthouse hosted the Boys and Girls Clubs of North Alabama on Tuesday, March 28.

The youth were given a tour of the Jackson County

Courthouse. Several different employees of Jackson County spoke to the club about their chosen careers.

The Boys and Girls Clubs of North Alabama provide a fun, safe, and constructive environment for kids and teens in North Alabama during out-of-school hours.

The mission of the Boys and Girls Club is

to inspire and enable all young people to realize their full potential as productive, responsible, and caring citizens.

The Club firmly believes that every Boy and Girl has unlimited potential to make an unique difference if they are given the tools to build a great future.

Repeal The Grocery Tax?

By Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth

Special to Southern Torch

For all of my adult life, politicians in Montgomery have talked about the need to remove the state sales tax from groceries, but they always find excuse after excuse that prevents them from actually doing it.

The potential loss of budget revenue, the false claims that replacement taxes must be passed, and the looming threat of economic downturns are just a few of the excuses politicians have used to do nothing and continue walking in place.

The time for excuses is over.

Alabama is currently enjoying the greatest and most robust economy in its history, more people are employed with well-paying, secure jobs than ever before, and our state budgets currently have a combined surplus of roughly $3 billion.

The conservative budgeting practices that Republicans put in place after taking control of the Legislature in 2010 allowed Alabama’s economy to weather the COVID-19 pandemic better than almost all other states, and our already impressive success in attracting economic development and industrial recruitment prospects is growing by the day.

Alabama’s

business sectorranging from the largest employers to the smallest, mom-and-pop operations - remains healthy and is sending unprecedented revenues to the state.

All of these economic factors and dozens more like them have created a perfect opportunity for Montgomery to finally put action before words and begin the process of making grocery purchases tax-free.

And the best news is that we can end the sales tax on groceries without having to shift the burden or raise taxes elsewhere. If anyone claims otherwise, they are simply not shooting straight with you.

But we must take action now.

Alabama is one of only three states that taxes groceries at the full rate - South Dakota and Mississippi are the others - and we are one of only 13 states in the nation that levy any tax on groceries. Our sister southeastern states of Georgia and Florida do not tax groceries, and Tennessee taxes them at a reduced rate.

As the cost of food

Collinsville Drugs

“Caring for you like family”

Alabama’s working families are devoting even more of their household income to the grocery tax. Eggs alone cost a third more than they did last year, and each time the price increases, the amount of sales taxes you pay on them rises in proportion.

Take a moment to add up the total sales tax you pay on groceries each year, and you will find it equates to roughly one month’s worth of groceries.

Now contrast those statistics with the fact that revenues in the Education Trust Fund, which is where sales taxes are earmarked, have grown steadily for almost a decade.

Estimated total receipts for the ETF in the upcoming fiscal year amount to almost $11 billion alone. In addition, we began the year with a $3 billion carry forward, and we have billions of dollars in savings accounts.

Given those figures, claiming we cannot sustain the loss in revenues that would result from a grocery tax repeal defies simple arithmetic, violates basic common sense, and opposes the conservative beliefs and values that guide the vast majority of Alabamians.

Over the past few weeks, I have met with various groups, including tax experts, legislative leaders, and even the grocers who collect the tax at the point of sale, and I am working with allies to begin the repeal of the grocery tax once and

In my opinion, the grocery tax repeal

Save The Date-Two Weeks Away

By Marla Ballard Reporter

FORT PAYNE –

Save the date this year for April 15 for more than just the deadline for taxes. The Third Saturday Sunset Cruise-In kicks off for the season and new additions are coming. The difference between a Car Show and Cruise-In is a Cruise-In does not have fees for participants or spectators. A Cruise-In is a social affair where car and/or motorcycle enthusiasts can share and talk about their interests.

For over a decade the third Saturday from April thru October (September is skipped for Boom Days Festival) downtown Fort Payne has hosted a Cruise-In for classic cars. This year the Cruise-In will include motorcycles in addition to cars.”

“The lack of street parking between First and Second Streets

must be fiscally responsible, include safeguards to ensure classroom education dollars are protected, and incorporate roadblocks to prevent cities and counties from nullifying the effort by raising local taxes on groceries.

By seizing the moment and stopping the politicians from making more excuses, Alabama can provide historic tax relief to today’s working families and the generations of working families that will follow.

If we do not take action now when the stars are aligned in our favor, when will we ever take action?

will now be utilized for showcasing motorcycles,” according to Amelia Landstreet, one of the visionaries of Third Saturday Cruise-In.

“We have had over 5,000 hits on our page concerning the showing of motorcycles, we expect a great start for the Third Saturday Sunset Cruise-In.”

Street-legal cars will still be shown in the same locations as in previous years. There are generally well over 200 cars on display.

The streets are blocked off for pedestrian use only.

Shops, restaurants, and eateries are open for business, live music and the aroma of food fill the air at this downtown event. In addition to restaurants, a variety of food truck vendors will be open for business. One vendor returning from last year is Mobile Munchies, owned by Daniel and Jenna Chitwood. Stop by for a spicy burger and a Yoo-hoo. Follow Facebook for more menu options.

The entertainment will consist of two musical stages. One will be local musician Kevin Rooks, playing guitar and harmonica near North 5th Street (next to the Coal & Iron Building). Rooks was raised in Henagar and

has been playing guitar for over 50 years. Rooks played in a Chicago cover band that played the tri-state area of Georgia, Tennessee, and Alabama formany years. “Those who enjoy musicians like Bob Dylan, Neil Young, and Chris Stapleton should stop by and listen,” said Rooks. The downtown music stage (near 1st Street) will present a Show Band led by Dr. Matt Leder. Dr. Leder has been a professional musician for over 20 years and has been music faculty at Calhoun Community College since 2022. Prior to this appointment, he served as Music Director/Instructor at Gadsden State Community College and was the director of the award-winning GSCC Show Band. “The band will consist of anywhere from 14 to 26 musicians and play a variety of genres, ” said Dr. Leder. For more information go to www.mattleder.com. Bring a lawn chair and sit a spell or keep pace with the roaming crowd. Visit the city park for children’s activities. The “block party” is from 5 PM until 9 PM in downtown Fort Payne. Follow Facebook for more information.

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 the event on Facebook Board

Together Opening

Night.

April 8, Dekalb

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 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 Concert -

The 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

THE CIRCUIT

OF DEKALB 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

Over the years, certain counties in Alabama have bred an inordinate number of governors and state political leaders. The three most prominent enclaves, historically, have been Tuscaloosa, Barbour and Cullman. In the earlier years of statehood Tuscaloosa was the most heralded county. They have continued, intermittently, throughout the years.

The most prominent senator in Alabama history, Richard Shelby, who retired after 36 years in the Senate calls Tuscaloosa home. Indeed, the state capital was in Tuscaloosa one time in the early years.

They have had a fairly recent governor in Dr. Robert Bentley.

Barbour County is called the “Home of Governors” and for a good reason. They have had more governors than any county in state history. This sparsely populated Black Belt

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

Today $15 for 6 months $30 for a full year $25 for vets &

county has had six governors hail from there. George Wallace is, of course, the most prominent Barbour County Governor but they also have Chauncy Sparks, John Gill Shorter, William Jelks, Braxton Bragg Comer and Jere Beasley. Barbour County and Tuscaloosa both claim Lurleen Wallace. She was born and raised in Northport in Tuscaloosa County, but married George Wallace and moved to Barbour County.

DeKalb Animal Hospital

This split county claim of governors also applies to legendary Governor James “Big Jim” Folsom. Big Jim was born and raised in Coffee County near Elba but moved to Cullman as a young man. So, Cullman gets bragging rights since he lived in Cullman when he was first elected in 1946. Cullman has indeed come on strong in the past few decades. They have had two governors in recent years, Jim Folsom, Jr. and Guy Hunt.

Today, we have two counties emerging as hotbeds for breeding state political leaders. Coffee County is percolating with political success. More particularly the growing City of Enterprise. Our new U.S. Senator, Katie Boyd Britt, was born and raised in Enterprise. She is only 40. The Congressman from the second district,

Barry Moore, is from Enterprise although Dothan, Montgomery and Elmore County have more population in that Congressional District. Moore is only 56. A rising popular star in the State House of Representatives, Rhett Marquis, 48, is from the Boll Weevil City. Enterprise is the home of the new state senator from that southeast Alabama hub. Josh Carnley just took the seat of retiring legend, Jimmy Holley, thus keeping that seat in Coffee County. Carnley is a Coffee County farmer and insurance broker. Enterprise has a very good Mayor in William “Bill” Cooper. He has been in city politics for a good while. Coffee County also dominates all the judicial posts in this circuit. All three circuit judges hail from Coffee County, in Enterprise. Sonny Reagan, Jeff Kelley and Shannon Clark are all relatively young.

The new District Attorney, James Tarbox, is very young. Jimmy Baker, who is Chancellor of the Alabama Community College System hails from Coffee County and lives in Enterprise.

Enterprise has always laid claim to Ft. Rucker, which has been the impetus of their growth, but they are emerging as a political powerhouse.

The other county that is set to be called an Alabama political spawning ground powerhouse is Marshall County. They currently have a cadre of the state’s most powerful and promising Alabama

leaders. The most prominent is 41 year old Lt. Governor Will Ainsworth, who may be our next governor. State Senator Clay Scofield of Marshall County is only 42 and is Majority Leader of the State Senate. Attorney General Steve Marshall, 57, is in his second term as Attorney General. It is rare that two of the state’s highest ranking officials, Will Ainsworth and Steve Marshall, are both from the same county. There are two rising stars in the Alabama House of Representatives from Marshall County. Young Wes Kitchens, an emerging leader in the House is from Marshall. Also, the youngest member of the House of Representatives, Brock Colvin, has just been elected at the ripe old age of 26 and is catching people’s eyes on Goat Hill. Enterprise and Marshall County are emerging as new political breeding grounds for Alabama politicians. See you next week.

Addie Elizabeth Coles - 52, of Valley

Head, Alabama, passed away on Wednesday, March 22, 2023 at DeKalb Regional Medical Center. Addie was born on May 29, 1970 in Columbus, Ohio and most recently worked as a truckdriver. The Family will announce a Memorial Service at a later date.

Helen Jeanette Moore - 84, of Fort Payne, Alabama, passed away on Friday, March 24, 2023. Jean was born on August 16, 1938 in Williamstown, North Carolina to James David Simpson & Sophia Lois Donaldson Simpson. Funeral: Sunday, March 26, 2023 at 2:00 PM.

Deborah Ann (Deb) “Gigi” Graben

Goodridge - 61 of Henagar died Saturday, March 25 at Riverview Regional Medical Center.

Funeral services are Monday at 6 PM CT at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel. Family will receive friends from 3 PM until service time.

Roger Dale Shirley - 75 of Ider completed his earthly journey on

Monday, March 27. Funeral services are Thursday at 2 PM CT at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel with Bro. Dennis Byrum and Bro. Bradley Wooten officiating. Burial will follow in Lake Hills Memorial Gardens.

Samuel “Sam”

Eugene Goforth - 68 of Flat Rock died

Tuesday, March 28 at Highland’s Medical Center. Funeral services are Friday at 2 PM CT at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel with Bro. David Smith officiating. Burial will follow in Caperton’s Chapel Cemetery. Family will receive friends from 4 to 8 PM Thursday and 12 noon until service time on Friday.

Casey Levon Chadwick - 43 of Henagar, passed away on Thursday, March 23, 2023, at his residence. Funeral service is Saturday, March 25, 2023, in Kerby Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Randy Grider officiating. A private burial will follow in Fuller Cemetery.

Family will receive friends on Saturday, March 25th from 11AM-2PM

Survivors

Daughters: Kelby

Chadwick and Kayden

Chadwick

Father: Steve Chadwick and wife

Tanya

Mother: Caren Chadwick

Grandfather:

Garland Chadwick

Brother: Brandon Chadwick and wife

Christie

Nephews: Kolton Chadwick and Hunter Chadwick

Preceded in Death

Grandmother: Frances Chadwick

Kenneth G. Pace - 70 of Dutton, AL passed away on Thursday, March 16, 2023 at his residence. No services will be held.

Hilda Jo (Mearse)

Rooks - Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 25, 2023 at 2:00PM at Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Matthew Kilgore officiating. Burial will follow in Rainsville Memorial Park.

Kathy Richlon Robertson Turner - 73 of Dutton, AL passed away on Tuesday, March 21, 2023 at her residence. Memorial service will be held on Friday, March 24, 2023 at 2PM at Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel. A celebration of life service will be held at a later date.

Don “Pawpaw”

Fobbus - 84 of Rainsville, AL passed away on Friday, March 24, 2023 at his residence. Funeral service will be held on Tuesday, March 28,

2023 at 2PM at Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Coby Boyd & Bro. Roger Graham officiating. Burial will follow.

Eva Jean Matthews Hollis - 61 of Philadelphia, MS passed away on Friday, March 24, 2023 at her residence. Funeral service will be held on Monday, March 27, 2023 at 3PM at Rainsville Funeral Home.

Gary “Punk” Traylor - 58 of Powell, Al passed away on Sunday, March 26, 2023 at his residence. Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, March 29, 2023 at 2PM.

Ruth Traylor - 93 of Powell passed away on Monday, March 27, 2023 at her residence. Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, March 29, 2023 at 2PM. Burial will follow.

Jerry Wayne Cowart (Sweet Moma) - 74 of Rainsville, Al passed away on Monday, March 27, 2023 at his residence. Funeral service will be held on Friday, March 31, 2023 at 3PM at Rainsville Funeral Home.

25, 2023 at Scottsboro Funeral Home. Burial will follow.

John William

“Cotton” Holder - 81 of Scottsboro, Alabama passed away at his home on Friday, March 24, 2023. A graveside funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, March 27, 2023 at Stevenson City Cemetery.

Robert Charles Hansen - passed away at his home in Woodville on Saturday, March 25, 2023. A memorial service will be announced by the family at a later time.

Preston Wayne Whitehead - 79 of Horton, Alabama passed away at his home on Saturday, March 25, 2023. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, March 30, 2023.

Edwin Kent Horner - Visitation will be Friday March 31, 2023 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at the Scottsboro Funeral Home with the funeral at 1:00 pm with Matt Helms officiating. Burial in Pinhaven Memorial Gardens.

Danny Ray Moore - 67, passed away on Monday, March 13, 2023. In accordance with his wishes, he was cremated. A grave side service will be held for family and friends April 1st at Pinehaven cemetery.

Paulette Gann White - 69, of Section, Alabama passed away on March 18, 2023 after a prolonged illness. Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, April 2.

Terrell Wayne Wigley - 62, of Fyffe passed away on Monday, March 20, 2023. A memorial service will be held at 1pm Saturday, March 25.

James Edward Brown “Jim Lee” - 48 of Crossville, passed away Tuesday, March 21, 2023. Funeral Services will be held at 3pm on Saturday, March 25.

LaVerne Chesser - 86 of Fyffe passed away Tuesday, March 21, 2023 at her residence. Funeral services will be held at 2pm.

Mickey Dwane Allen - 54, of Rainsville passed away on Tuesday, March 21, 2023. Funeral services are set for 3pm Thursday, March 23.

Stevie Eakins - 65, of Collinsville passed away on Tuesday, March 21, 2023. Funeral services are set for 1pm Thursday, March 23.

Gloria Alvarado Orozco - 64 of Fort Payne, passed away Wednesday, March 22, 2023. Funeral Services will be held at 10am on Saturday, March 25.

Carl Raymond Nestor - 51 of Fort Payne passed away Wednesday March 22, 2023. A Memorial visitation will be March 25. 10:00am till 11:00.

Donna Jakubowski - 78, of Boaz, AL, passed away Thursday, March 23, 2023. She was born on 02/24/1945 in Grand Rapids, MI, and lived most of her life in the area.

IDER

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were approved by the Board:

• Central Office

Cleaning Services

Bid - CJC Cleaning

• Sylvania High School Football Field

Lighting ProjectMusco Sports

Lighting • Collinsville High School Auditorium

Stage CurtainsGeorgia Stage LLC

The following Retirements were approved:

• Karen Barnett - Elementary Teacher - Fyffe High SchoolRetirement - 6/1/23

• Lisa ShraderItinerant Indian

Education TeacherDistrict - Retirement - 6/1/23

• Robin Pair -

Elementary Teacher - Sylvania High School - Retirement - 6/1/23

• Linda Chambers - CNP WorkerSylvania High School - Retirement - 6/1/23

• Kathy Dodd -

Elementary Teacher - Fyffe High SchoolRetirement - 6/1/23

The following Resignations were approved:

• Otis

Washington - Social Worker/Mental

Health Services Coordinator-District - Resignation4/3/23

• Rachael Walker - Cheerleading Coaching Duties

Only - Crossville Middle SchoolResignation - 2/14/23

• Lillian Hawkins

- Junior High

Volleyball Coaching Duties Only -

Crossville Middle School - Resignation - 3/1/23

• Misty Day - CNP Worker - Geraldine High SchoolResignation - 3/17/23

• Kendi Alverson - CNP WorkerGeraldine High School - Resignation - 3/17/23

• Heather Harris

- Assistant Custodian (9-month/7-hour)

- Plainview High School - 3/22/23

• Taylor Clough - Jr. High Girls

Basketball Coaching Duties OnlyCrossville Middle School - Resignation - 3/16/23

The following Leaves of Absence were approved:

• Avery Collins

- Pre-K TeacherFyffe High School - 2/2/23-5/26/23

• John Daniel Pope - Shop ForemanTransportation - 11/23/22-7/30/23 (Extended from 2/8/23)

• Kim Maness - Academic Supervisor - Central Office - 2/22/23-4/13/23

• April HallElementary Teacher - Plainview High School - 2/22/23-4/28/23

• Sonya Stephens - Itinerant Special Education

Paraprofessional - Fyffe Special Services Center - 1/26/23-3/9/23

Tracie Ford - Ele • mentary Teacher -

Crossville Middle School - 8/1/225/26/23 (Extended from 1/1/23)

• Lacie FricksElementary Teacher

- Sylvania High School - 2/6/234/3/23 (Extended from 3/10/23)

• Madison Willoughby - School Nurse - Geraldine High School

- 5/1/23-5/26/23

• Monique Kittle

- Secondary Mathematics Teacher

- Sylvania High SchoolIntermittent

Catastrophic Leave - 3/1/23-3/20/21

• Hannah Vann

- Elementary Teacher

- Sylvania High School - 4/10/23-5/25/23

• Jordon Wright

- CNP WorkerPlainview High School - 3/24/23-5/5/23

The following On the Job Injuries were approved:

• Selina Alexander - CNP Worker - Plainview High School - 0 days

• Trina LandCNP WorkerPlainview High School - 0 days

• Devin Bouldin

- Science Teacher

- Collinsville High School - 0 days

• Jennifer Gilbert

- EL TeacherGeraldine High School - 3 days

The following Transfers were approved:

• Brittany Rhodes from CNP Worker at Crossville Middle School to Itinerant Special Education

Henagar Shooting Suspect Arrested

Erlanger Medical Center. The information obtained by Law Enforcement, was the subject had fled into a nearby wooded area.

Staff Reports

HENAGAR, Ala.

—On Thursday, March 23, at approximately 6:27 pm, a call came into Henagar Police Department, stating a female subject had been shot at 131 Kelly Drive in Henagar.

Henagar Police Department along with the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene and located the female that had been shot.

Officers and deputies quickly got medical aid to the female and she was transported to

A perimeter was quickly established and roadways were blocked off to secure the safety of others and the community. The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office Special Response Team was activated and a short time later the subject was located in the wooded area and taken into custody.

Joseph Earl Cobb (62 of Henagar) was arrested and charged with Assault 1st and Shooting into an Occupied Dwelling. The investigation is ongoing and more charges are expected.

“It’s unfortunate something like this has happened in a

Paraprofessional at Geraldine High School (Effective 2/23/23)

• Tim Coppock from Assistant Custodian (7-hr/9month) at Crossville Middle School to Assistant Custodian (7-hr/9-month) at Fyffe High School (Effective 3/24/23)

The following Placements were approved (All placements are made pending a background review meeting suitability criteria and negative, pre-employment drug screen and appropriate certification):

Certified

• Melissa Snyder - Elementary Teacher (Leave 10/20/225/26/23) - Crossville Middle School

• Megan HearnSecondary Mathematics Teacher (Leave 3/17/235/26/23) - Crossville High School

• John David Willoughby - Itinerant Special Education Teacher - Henagar Jr. High School (Effective 3/7/23)

• Skyla GrayVarsity Volleyball Coaching DutiesPlainview High School (2023-016)

• Lola Cortez Garcia - Secondary English Language Arts TeacherCrossville High School (Effective 4/3/23)

• Lily WillsElementary Teacher (Leave 2/22/234/28/23) - Plainview High School (Effective 2/27/23)

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Support

• Candice Painter

- Assistant Custodian (7-hr/9-month)

- Crossville Middle School (Effective 3/24/23)

• Tori Rogers

- CNP WorkerCrossville Middle School (Effective 3/7/23)

• Sam GriggsItinerant Social Worker - Mental Health Services

Coordinator - District (Effective 4/17/23)

The following

Volunteer Coach was approved:

Geraldine High School

•Blake

Truett - Baseball

The following

Contracts were approved by the

Board:

• March 23, 2023

Contracts Report

• Myra Burgess

- Math Teacher - Geraldine High School

• Christie Deere

- Math Teacher

- Geraldine High School

• Jenny Mann -

After-School Bus

Driver - Ider High School

Superintendent

Wayne Lyles requested the following, which was approved by the

Board:

• Permission to Place Pending Board

Approval

• K-3 English

Language Arts

Textbook AdoptionMcGraw Hill - Open Court and the entire supplemental list approved by the Alabama State Department of

• Rejected the Bids for (2) 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe

Education

• 4-5 English

Language Arts

Textbook AdoptionMcGraw Hill - Open Court

• Support for State Alabama Skills Contest - $2,000.00

• FinalSite

Website Contract Superintendent Lyles also recognized the following for their outstanding achievements:

• State Beta Winners 2023

• Crossville High School - 2022 CLAS School of Distinction

• Coach Robi Coker and the Plainview Bears Boys Basketball Team on another AHSAA 3A Championship. Luke Smith was the tournament MVP and Landon White was recognized on the state all-tournament team.

• Coach Jamie Pruett and the Ider Lady Hornets Basketball Team on finishing as Northeast Region Runner-Up! Record 22-11

• Ider PTOThank you for extending your hospitality and providing refreshments for this meeting. The next Board of Education meeting will be held on Thursday, April 27. The Work Session will begin at 4:30 P.M. and the Regular Meeting will begin at 5 p.m. in the Meeting Room at the Facilities Building.

small town like Henagar. We ask you to keep the families and this lady in your prayers as she recovers. We appreciate the response by all surrounding Law Enforcement Agencies” stated DeKalb County Sherrif Nick Welden.

“The public will never know how these situations have to be handled to ensure their safety, as simple as blocking roads and visiting homes to ensure they lock their doors and stay vigilant during these operations we are conducting. Everyone plays an extremely important role and this proved just how important it is apprehending someone and working together to do so all while keeping others safe” concluded Welden.

Wreck Claims Life in Fort Payne

By Marla Jones Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

FORT PAYNE, Ala.--A 51-year-old Fort Payne man was killed on Wednesday, March

22, in a single-vehicle accident, when his vehicle went off the road and overturned on County Road 89, one mile south of Fort Payne.

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency

(ALEA) identified the man, as Carl R. Nestor. Nestor was not wearing a seat belt and was ejected from the 2005 Nissan Altima. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Public Works Department

• Resolution 03-20-2023(C) which Surplused a Leer Camper Shell (Fits Ford Short-Wheel Base Truck) and Kohler Generator (With Ford 6 Cylinder Engine)

• Resolution 03-20-2023(D) which awards the bid by Joe Pankey in the amount of $1595.00 for a 2006 Chevrolet Silverado

The council did the following:

• Accepted the resignation of Cameron Gass from the Public Works Dept/CDL Sanitation Driver Effective 03-14-2023

• Approved a $500 sponsorship to Plainview Baseball

• Approved a $300 sponsorship to the DeKalb County Tech School for Skills USA Training in Montgomery.

• Approved a quote in the amount of $10,882.90 for the installation of an emergency light by Sand Mountain

Electric Company and site work by Boozer and Son Construction for the Rainsville Fire Department • Hired Johnny Brown, as a full-time patrolman for the Rainsville Police Department • Hired Kevin Smith for full-time maintenance and mowing at the Parks and Rec Department. The next regular meeting of the Rainsville City Council will be on Monday, April 3, with a work session beginning at 4:00 p.m. and a regular session at 4:30 p.m.

Parts of I-59 To Reopen

HUNTSVILLE — The Alabama Department of Transportation advises motorists that more than five miles of reconstructed northbound roadway of Interstate 59 between Reece City and Collinsville are being reopened this afternoon.

The northbound roadway from near milepost 194, south of Stephens Gap Road in northern Etowah County, to about a mile north of the DeKalb County line has been closed for replacement, with all traffic shifted to the southbound roadway, since last summer.

The southbound roadway will remain reduced to one lane while barriers are

removed and relocated for the next phase of the project.

Motorists are advised to expect a lane closure beginning at milepost 198 for work to construct a crossover for a future traffic shift to the southbound roadway to allow reconstruction of the next five milesegment of the northbound roadway, from milepost 199.5 to south of Exit 205 (Alabama 68) in DeKalb County.

Once all 11 miles of roadway have been

reconstructed, contractor Wiregrass Construction will pave the final layer of the entire project. The $44 million project is anticipated to be completed in late spring or early summer of 2024. This project, a recently-completed $25.2 million project that replaced about eight miles of the northbound roadway through Fort Payne, and a recentlybegun $40.8 million project to reconstruct the northbound roadway from Fort Payne to Hammondville, represent a combined total of about $110 million invested by the state so far in reconstructing I-59 through northeast Alabama.

Devils Burn the Hornets Rams Slide Past Eagles

By Marla Jones Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

RBIs. Keegan Whitaker had a double on two times at bat and brought in two runs.

By Marla Jones Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

SYLVANIA, Ala.--The Sylvania Rams Varsity Baseball team defeated the Pisgah Eagles 4-3 on Thursday.

The Rams opened

up the scoring in the second inning on a single by Will Grant. The game was tied at three in the bottom of the seventh when Briaden Thomas singled on a 1-0 count, scoring the winning run.

Josh Scott got the win from the mound,

pitching seven innings and allowing ten hits and three runs while striking out five. He walked one.

Levi Arnold took the loss for the Pisgah Eagles, allowing five hits and two runs over four innings. He struck out one and walked one.

innings pitched.

FYFFE, Ala.--

The Fyffe Varsity Red Devils Baseball team defeated the Ider Hornets, 13-6 in Game One and 18-4 in Game Two of the doubleheader on Friday. This game was a Class 2A Area 15 region matchup. In the first game, Layne Wlks had two doubles with three

Yahir Balcazar and Jake Wooden both hit home runs in the first game of the series.

From the mound, Tyler Brewer pitched 1 ⅓ innings and only gave up two hits and one run. Layne White struck out six and allowed five hits.

Kaden Phillips took the loss for the Ider Hornets allowing seven runs in ⅔

In Game Two, Fyffe had some heavy hitters with Blake Dobbins having four RBIs on two hits. Will Arnold doubled on two hits with three RBIs. Jake Wooden doubled bringing in two runs in the 18-4 victory over Ider.

Issac Smith doubled bringing in two runs for the Hornets. Skylar Haney brought in three runs on two hits.

Collinsville Soccer Took Down Oldtimers

By Marla Jones Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

COLLINSVILLE,

Ala.-- The Collinsville Soccer Team recently held their annual Alumni Game on March 25.

The game celebrated the 20-year anniversary of the Collinsville Soccer program. The annual fundraiser is crucial to the soccer program.

“This year was our 20th anniversary. We celebrated everyone who has contributed to

the team throughout the years” stated one of the Collinsville Soccer Coaches, Pedro Sierra.

“The atmosphere was beautiful. The fans sure seemed to enjoy all of our guys coming out and doing what they most loved.

It was a special game with Team Red dominating the alumni team, 4-0” concluded Sierra.

Collinsville will host the Glencoe Yellowjackets on Tuesday, April 4 in a regional matchup.

JV County Champions

Cheryl Boydston | Southern Torch

Cheryl Boydston | Southern Torch