ST Vol 9 No 14

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THE SOUTHERN TORCH / FRIDAY, April 7, 2023 / VOL. 9, NO. 14 / $1.00

Complete The Egg Hunt!

Remains in Valley Head Identified

By Marla Jones Managing Editor

marla@southerntorch.com

FORT PAYNE, Ala. — On March 23, remains that were found in Valley Head, were identified by the Alabama Department of Forensic Science Laboratory in Huntsville, Al, as those of 19-year-old Makenna Joy Purvis.

Makenna was reported missing in September of 2022. An extensive search and investigation have been ongoing since her disappearance near Inspect Drive in Valley Head, Al. The remains were located by the Huntsville Search Dog Unit. No foul play is suspected.

DeKalb County Sheriff

Find Every easter egg

hidden through this Wekk’s issue and jump over to our Facebook page to submit your guess. You might find the Prize!

>See Remains, P4

Shootout in Powell

VH Eyes Axing City Attorney

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

VALLEY HEAD, ALA.- (Full video on Southern Torch Facebook Page) The Valley Head Council held its regularly scheduled meeting on April 3. Only twenty people were allowed entrance to the meeting, which included six council

members, a police officer, a clerk, and two media representatives.

At the March 20 meeting, City Attorney Pat Tate advised the Valley Head Council that the Mayor had the authority to suspend or fire anyone without the Council’s consent.

Days after the March 20 meeting, an ordinance was

found that had been on the books since 1983, that established a volunteer fire department. Section 2 of the ordinance, stated that the Fire Chief shall be appointed by the Mayor and Town Council.

The Council voted to suspend the rules for immediate

>See Axing, P6

By Marla Jones Managing Editor

shot after an argument at a home for caregivers of marla@southerntorch.com Haymon Homes. The argument spilled POWELL, onto the road with Ala.—Two people one victim in a car were shot after an being shot and altercation in Powell another being shot in on Friday. the yard.

According to One suffered DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office, Chief injuries and was transported to Investigator Nick Erlanger Hospital in Brown, two Chattanooga, TN. employees of Haymon Homes were The victim in the car left the scene and at

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Sat. Apr 8

58 / 44

this time his whereabouts are unknown.

On Wednesday, April 5, Southern Torch reached out to Chief Investigator Brown for an update.

“I have spoken with most of the people involved in the shooting Friday from College Road.

Everyone involved is claiming to be

>See Powell, P6

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

2 - Friday - April 7, 2023

Southern Torch

Hometown banking, wherever you are!

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Scottsboro Gets Drugs More Than Just A Walk In The Park Off of Streets

SCOTTSBORO, Ala.— The Scottsboro Police Department has made several drug related arrests in the past two weeks, getting a large quantity of drugs off the streets.

On March 28, officers made a traffic stop in the 2900 block of E. Willow Street.

During the investigation, approximately 86 grams of methamphetamine was located along with 27.8 grams of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

Donald Ray Guthrie, 48, of Hollywood was arrested and charged with Drug Trafficking (Methamphetamine), Possession of

Marijuana 2nd, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Guthrie is currently being held in the Jackson County Jail on a $28,000 bond.

On March 29, officers made a traffic stop in the 500 block of Micah Way. During the investigation, approximately 24.2 grams of fentanyl was located along with several items of drug paraphernalia.

Donna Jean Johnson, 41, of Brownsboro and Jonathan Lee Hanuski, 28 , were arrested and charged with Drug Trafficking (Fentanyl) and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Johnson and Hanuski are both currently being held

in the Jackson County Jail on a $25,500 bond each.

Also on March 29, officers made contact with Jeremy Blake Newman, 39, pertaining to a theft incident in the 24000 block of John T. Reid Pkwy.

During the investigation, approximately 2.5 grams of fentanyl was located along with a small amount of marijuana.

Newman was charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute (Fentanyl), Possession of Marijuana 1st, and Theft of Property 4th.

Newman is currently being held in the Jackson County Jail on a $15,800 bond.

By Marla Ballard Reporter JACKSON COUNTY -Nature lovers, picnickers, walkers, joggers, runners, fishermen, boating enthusiasts, barbeque lovers, children, families, those who love camping or a cabin retreat, and those who simply enjoy sitting by a river will all find what they are looking for at Jackson County Park.

In the park, visitors will find peppered along the bank of the Tennessee River picnic tables and porch swings. The 652-milelong river passes along the edge of Scottsboro and the park offers water enthusiasts multiple ways of enjoying this scenic sight. Guests who just wish to sit and watch will enjoy the breeze and watch the boats and ducks pass by.

Fishing is allowed off certain docks located in the park and fishermen will find Largemouth bass, Bluegill, and Black crappie among the species of fish in the Scottsboro area.

Boaters will find boat trailer parking and boat ramps to launch their watercraft. Rental boat slips are also available. For those not owning their own watercraft, a variety of watercraft rentals are available at Lakeshore Watercraft Rentals & Store, located inside the park.

For information call 256-609-2847. Gas is sold at the park for boaters.

The .07 (some say .08) paved walking trail meanders through lush greenery with some river views and past the children’s playground. An occasional bench is situated along the path. The walking trail was landscaped by a volunteer who planted a variety of plants for bloom viewing all through the blooming season.

The fenced-in children’s playground has some seating for guardians. The shaded lot offers a large selection of playground equipment for children in the room is available.

Be forewarned that the aroma of barbeque

wafts over the park six days a week generally from 10:30 a.m. until supper time. KC’s BBQ has indoor and outdoor dining right on the river’s edge. Some nights music adds to the charm of this riverbank restaurant.

Call 256-999-0425.

Boaters may dock to visit the restaurant for a small fee.

A campground and cabins are available for those wanting to stay overnight. Jackson County Park offers both RV camping and primitive tent camping.

The RV spots are located inside a gated area with 30/50 amp service, water, cable, sewer, and Wi-Fi. Golf carts are welcome.

There is a bathhouse and propane refills are available. Free uncovered boat slips are accessible for campers for quick water access.

A pavilion is obtainable for group gatherings by appointment only.

Located at 2302 County Park Road, Scottsboro. Phone 256-574-4719.

EF1 Tornado Confirmed in Jackson County

By Marla Jones Managing Editor

marla@southerntorch.com

FLAT ROCK, Ala.--The National Weather Service in Huntsville has confirmed an EF1 tornado struck Jackson County on Saturday, March 25.

According to a preliminary survey, the tornado touched down in Flat Rock, around 1:28 a.m., and stayed on the ground for

almost six miles.

According to the Jackson County Emergency Management Agency, multiple chicken houses sustained roof damage. Trees were uprooted and minor structural damage was reported.

The EF1 tornado had estimated peak winds of 90 mph and a path width of 115 yards.

There were no fatalities due to the tornado.

Southern Torch

Spreading The Word About Recycling

Foodland representative (Hunter), the 4th grade gifted students, Mrs. List (LRIS principal), and Donna McClure (Gifted Teacher).

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

FORT PAYNE,

Ala.--The fourth-grade gifted class at Little Ridge Intermediate School (LRIS) in Fort Payne recently completed a

community project.

The students have been learning about sustainability. Within this lesson, the students studied the process and procedures of recycling. Earth Day is on April 22, and the students wanted to spread the word to the community that recycling is important.

Foodland donated paper grocery bags for the students to decorate, bringing attention to recycling and Earth Day. When anyone in the community goes to Foodland and requests paper instead of plastic, they will see some wonderful artwork from an LRIS student.

Local Youth Win At Jr. Livestock Expo

MONTGOMERY, Ala.— Junior Showmanship Contest winners at the Jr. Swine Expo during the Jr. Livestock Expo were, from left, Rose Hodnett of Tallapoosa County, champion; Makenna Martin of Tallapoosa County, reserve champion; Macie Simpson of DeKalb County, third; Brinley Martin of Tallapoosa County,

fourth; and Hunter Smith of Calhoun County, fifth. Alabama Farmers Federation and Alfa Insurance sponsor the annual

contests, held March 17 during the Southeastern Livestock Exposition in Montgomery.

Friday - April 7, 2023 - 3

Take Trip Down Memory Lane

By Marla Ballard Reporter

FORT PAYNE - Fort Payne is known for many things, but what has made the city especially known on a national level is the music group Alabama.

The return of June Jam has fans all excited to see and hear the group which has sold over 70 million records. Notably, over 70 of the groups songs have been on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.

The Alabama Fan Club and Museum draw people from across the country and beyond to witness the history of this bluegrass-influenced band. Visitors can travel back to 1969 when cousins Randy Owen, Jeff Cook, and Teddy Gentry formed their band. Guests can witness for themselves the group’s southern heritage as seen and heard through their songwriting.

Since 1985 the Alabama Fan Club and Museum have resided at the South “Y” of Fort Payne on the property once occupied by the Chevrolet dealership.

Central Church of Christ 1114 Main Street West Rainsville, AL 35986

Would like to invite you to our Homecoming and Gospel Meeting 2023 Sunday - Wednesday, April 16-19 Speaker will be: Brother Jim Roberts.

“Cross Talk” Worship Times: Sunday at 9:30am & 10:30am.

Fellowship meal following. Sunday evening at 6pm.

Monday night at 6:30pm. Tuesday night at 6:30pm.

Wednesday night at 6:30pm.

In recent years the building and museum have undergone remodeling and visitors will enjoy seeing showcases of both the group as a whole and each individual musician’s personal memorabilia.

Some followers may be surprised to learn the names of the other two bands the three cousins were in.

Guests may be amazed to find out the number of drummers the group had over more than four decades of music while Owen, Cook, and Gentry remained together.

Meander through the museum while listening to the music that made the group famous and see just how many consecutive # 1 singles Alabama had in a row. Witness how many awards made them the most successful country rock band of all time.

Visitors might find themselves humming and going down memory lane as they view the posted list of the #1 song hits that have endeared this band to music lovers.

Come to appreciate the humble beginnings of this music group by viewing the blue goose and the part it played at the beginning of the group’s music career.

Sightseers can travel back in time in their imaginations and envision the six years of tip jars and travel it took to become well-known.

Jeff Cook, was well-known for his adaptability to play multiple instruments: guitar, bass, drums, fiddle, piano, and mandolin.

Museumgoers will see Cook’s first guitar and might be surprised to learn where it came from.

The museum offers up the history of the groups mingling with other famous bands and singers, the charitable events they have been involved in, the list of presidents who have seen them perform, and what they do when they are not performing.

Visit this Fort Payne landmark to firsthand witness the distant and recent past of the three cousins who gave Fort Payne one more reason for notoriety.

Located at 101 Glenn Blvd. SW Fort Payne. Open Tuesday - Saturday 9 AM - 4 PM. (Museum closes at 3:30). Ask at the gift shop about discounts for the museum. Call 256-845-1646. Follow on Facebook and thealabamaband.com for tour listings and more.

Collinsville Drugs “Caring for you like family”

(256) 524-2981 588 South Valley Ave P.O. Box 498 Collinsville, AL 35961

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EVENTS April 7, DeKalb Education Retirees Association - The DeKalb Education Retirees Association will meet Friday, April 7th at 10:00 at the Children’s Advocacy Center in Fort Payne (104 AL Ave. NW). Liz Wheatly will speak and lead a tour of the CAC and Gathering Place facilities.

April 8, Dekalb Master Gardeners will 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

Submit your upcoming events to nicky@southerntorch.com

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

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Staff:

Eloise Smith - General Manager Marla Jones - Managing Editor/Sports Brian Anderson - Radio Operations Manager Nick Vizzinia - Graphic Design Amy West - Account Executive Reace Osborn - Account Executive Jenna Sue Payne - Account Executive Patti Browder - Radio Traffic Katie Browder - Accounting Tommy Daniels - Radio Personality Steve Malcom - Radio Personality

Southern Torch (USPS Periodicals #19790) is published each Friday by Southern Torch, Inc. 225 Gault Ave N Fort Payne AL POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Southern Torch, P.O. Box 614, Rainsville, AL 35986

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 27 Family Services of North Alabama Strengthening 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!

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LEGALS IN THE CIRCUIT

COURT 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

The presidential race has begun, and rightly so because 2024 is just around the corner. The early primaries are less than 10 months away. We in Alabama have an early Presential Primary exactly 11 months from now on March 5, 2023.

Actually, the Republican challengers are slow getting out of the gate. The obvious elephant in the room is the looming presence of one, Donald Trump.

He seems intent on running. His ego will not allow him to read the tea leaves, as well as every scientific poll, which tells him that he is yesterday’s news and that over 75% of American voters detest him and he cannot defeat anyone in a presidential race. In fact, polling reveals that any Democrat or foreign dictator would beat him by landslide proportions by a much larger margin than the overwhelming defeat he received from the listless, almost lifeless,

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.

LEGALS IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA EXECUTOR’S NOTICE TO FILE CLAIMS IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF BILLY ROY DENTON, DECEASED

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

The Fort Payne Kiwanis welcomed Elizabeth Wheatley as a guest speaker for Kiwanis on

Wednesday. Wheatley is the director of the Children’s Advocacy Center in DeKalb County.

Pictured left to right, are Elizabeth Wheatley, and Kiwanian Dr. Scott Thompson Kiwanis of Fort Payne meets every Wednesday morning at 7:00 am at Cattle Stampede in Fort Payne.

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.

Wheatley Meets with Fort Payne Kiwanis

The Presidential Race Has Begun

Biden in 2020.

The problem for Republicans is that Trump is sitting there with a hard core 25% base of Republican voters. Therefore, if six or more substantial Republican presidential entrants get into the battle for the nomination and they average getting 12% of the GOP Primary votes, then Trump could prevail with his 25% minority base. Thus giving him the nomination and ultimate electoral disaster for Republicans.

They would lose the presidential contest so badly that it would take down a host of Republican congressional seats.

Republicans would suffer dramatically from the negative Trump coattail effect.

Republicans would most certainly lose their slim margin in the House of Representatives,

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

125 22nd Street NW Fort Payne, AL 35967 www.dahvets.com

but would also lose precious seats in the U.S. Senate.

The Republican Party strategists and insiders are keenly aware of the Trump debacle scenario and are rallying around Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Rank and file GOP Primary voters are flocking to him in droves. If the money is there to offset the Trump machine and gutter attacks that come with it, DeSantis will probably prevail.

The reluctance of other major GOP candidates getting into the fray is a sign that the conservatives in the country are working behind the scenes to orchestrate and discourage “also ran” candidates from getting into the race which would give DeSantis a clear undeterred victory to face Joe Biden in November. Minor candidates like Mike

Pence and Nikki Haley will run but polling shows them with a 3% threshold. Haley is probably angling to be DeSantis’ Vice Presidential choice.

Ron DeSantis will probably be the Republican nominee and face Joe Biden in Fall 2024.

Make no mistake about it, Joe Biden will be the Democratic nominee. It is far too late in the nominating process for a Democratic challenger to get into the race against an incumbent President. Therefore, Biden will skate to the nomination of his party without taxing his diminished stamina. In fact, his handlers will probably keep him out of sight during the entire campaign, which is a tried and true effective campaign strategy to elect ole Joe Biden.

President Joe Biden’s age is his

FROM PAGE 1

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

CASE NO.: 2023- 84

Dated this the 8th day of March, 2023. /s/ TODD GREESON Circuit Clerk

Powell

victims. I’m working now on the evidence found at the scene to try and recreate what happened with the projectiles and brass recovered. There were over forty rounds fired that we can tell so it’s taking some time to piece it together” stated Brown.

“Praise the Lord no innocent bystanders or others’ homes were hit. All involved are accounted for and are cooperating at this time. I’m hoping to have a file together for the grand jury in September, if I can get everything back from the lab in time” concluded Brown.

The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office, Powell Police Department, Rainsville Police Department along with JSU Center for Applied Forensics are aiding with the ongoing investigation.

Inside The Statehouse

DeKalb Animal Hospital Office: (256)845-0046 Emergency: (256)845-3031

Southern Torch

biggest albatross towards reelection.

Even Democratic voters who tend to be younger, are concerned by it.

His demeanor and gait accentuate his diminished capacity and advanced age.

Indeed, 82 is a pretty advanced age to be in the Oval Office.

However, if you watched his February State of the Union Address, his performance dispelled naysayers. His delivery, appearance and lucidness were on par with any 60 year old President. I have seen quite a few State of the Union speeches of sitting presidents and his performance was one of the most brilliant and well delivered I have seen.

It was shocking and amazing.

Forty million Americans were watching, not to hear what he had to say but how he said it. Most Americans were looking for a stumbling, tongue wagging, incognizant old Uncle Joe. Instead he was on script, lucid, and

Burt

glib who came off script and handled heckling from right wing, back bench Republicans with aplomb. He deviated from the teleprompter with candid, sincere comments. He made a brilliant opening campaign appearance which will resonate with voters throughout the campaign when he is described as a doddering old fool who should be in a nursing home.

He has also been in politics long enough to know to trust his handlers and stay away from voters, and just parrot the old line, liberal Democratic talking points that say Republicans are against Social Security, which by the way is the most demagogic liberal lie ever espoused, Republicans are not for cutting Social Security, most of their voters would starve to death.

If indeed Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is the Republican nominee, it will be a close presential race in November 2024, which is not that far away.

See you next week.

Funeral H omes

Friday - April 7, 2023 - 5

Southern Torch

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OBITUARIES Wilson Ausheauna Nata Johnson - 33, of Collinsville, Alabama passed away Tuesday, March 27, 2023 at her home. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Farrell Roberts 63, of Fort Payne, passed away on Thursday, March 30, 2023 at his residence.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date.

Ronald Allen Clark - 57, of Fort Payne, passed away Friday, March 31, 2023 at his home. He was born February 11, 1965 in Georgia to the late Ronald Augustus Clark and Rose Carol Fredricka Clark. There are no services planned at this time.

William Clay Wright - 22, of Fort Payne, passed away on Sunday, April 2, 2023. He was born on March 20, 2001 in Fort Payne and was a graduate of Fort Payne High School. He was employed at the Gas House. He is survived by his parents, David & Teri Wright; brothers, Layton Barker and Jess Barker; grandparents, Joe Wright, Ronnie Dobbs and Sandra George; uncles, Joey Wright and Shane Dobbs;

aunts, Carron McKinney and Michaele Gulledge; and several cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Virginia Wright. The family will have a private memorial service at a later date.

Burt Makenna Joy Purvis - 19, Makenna is survived by many family members & friends who loved her very much. The Family will announce a Memorial Service at a later date.

Cornerstone Claudene Wootten Townson - 85, of Henagar died Thursday March 30th.

Funeral services are Sunday at 2 PM CT at Antioch Baptist Church with Bro. Jeffrey Wootten and Bro. Charles Smith officiating.

Linda Michelle Williamson - 45, of Ider died Friday, March 31 at Adventhealth Redmond Hospital after a short illness. A Celebration of Life will be held Monday, April 3 at 6 PM CT at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel with Bro. Chris “Wormy” Wiseman officiating.

Charles William

(256)845-9150

3801 Gault Avenue, North, Fort Payne, AL

“Bill” Luke - 65, of Fort Payne died Sunday, April 2. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Crossville Jose “Digi” Ramos - 25, of Crossville passed away Sunday, March 26, 2023. His funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 1, 2023 at Crossville Memorial Chapel. Burial will follow at Dekalb Memorial Gardens.

Nicolas Figueroa Cruz - 41, of Albertville passed away Sunday, March 26, 2023. His funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 5, 2023 at The Chapel of the Holy Cross. Burial will follow in Memory Hill Cemetery.

Rainsville Charles Flynn - 66, of Ider, AL passed away on Friday, March 31, 2023. Grave side services will be held on Tuesday, April 4, 2023 at 2:00PM at Mountain Home Cemetery with Friend Jonathan Buttram officiating.

Nell Lands - 83 of the Blake Community passed away on Monday, April 3, 2023 at Cloverdale Nursing Home. Funeral service will be held on Thursday, April 6, 2023 at 1PM in Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Raymond Smith officiating. Burial will follow in Wesley’s Chapel Cemetery.

Visitation April 5th.

Scottsboro

W.T. Wilson

Margie A. Brock - 89, of Scottsboro, Alabama passed away Wednesday, March 29, 2023. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m.

Saturday, April 1, 2023.

Randy M. Noles 72, of Fyffe, Alabama formerly of Scottsboro passed away on Wednesday, March 29, 2023. Funeral services will be held at 4:00 p.m. Sunday, April 2, 2023.

Joan Catherine VanDyke Brickley Richardson (Mrs. Geno) - 92, of Scottsboro passed away peacefully in her home on Thursday March 30, 2023.

Services will be held at the First United Methodist Church of Scottsboro on Monday, April 3, 2023.

Wanda Faye Long - 65, of Scottsboro passed away Thursday March 30, 2023.

Services will be held at the Scottsboro Funeral Home on Monday, April 3, 2023 at 2:00pm.

Polly Louise Cosby - 86, of Woodville, Alabama passed away Sunday at Lifecare Centers of Red Bank.

Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m.

Wednesday, April 5.

Donnie Ray Holderfield - 62, of Hollywood, AL, received eternal healing April 3, 2023.

Funeral services will be held at 3 P.M Thursday, April 6, 2023. The family will receive friends on Wednesday April 5 Burial will follow.

Timothy Dale White - 56, of Pisgah passed away on Friday, March 24, 2023. Graveside services are set for 2pm Monday, March 27, 2023 at Mt. Pisgah Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 11am until 1pm Monday at the funeral home. W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

William Henry “Bill” Minnix - passed away recently in Miami.

Bill Minnix was reared in the Dawson community. He was living in Rome, Georgia when he left to serve his country. He divided his time between his home in Miami, Florida and his home in Ocoee, Tennessee.

Stanley Dale Nix - 53, of Boaz passed away on Tuesday, March 28, 2023. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

Niva Bell Butler - 92 of Fyffe, passed away Tuesday, March 28, 2023. Funeral Services will be held at 2pm on Thursday, March 30, 2023.

Mamie “Cissy” Gorham - 67, of Ft. Payne passed away on Wednesday, March 29, 2023. Funeral services are set for 2pm Friday, March 31, 2023 from the W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel. Burial will be in Pleasant View Cemetery.

Beth Anne Abney - 46 of Boaz, passed

away Friday, March 31, 2023. The family will be having a memorial service at a later date.

Brenda Nell Johnson - 73, of Rainsville, passed away Saturday, April 1, 2023. Funeral Services will be held at 4pm on Monday, April 3, 2023 from W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with burial to follow.

Norma Sue Ivey Latham Green - 85, of Rainsville passed away Sunday, April 2, 2023 in Huntsville Hospital.

FUNERAL 2pm - Friday April 7, 2023 Liberty Baptist Church.

Kevin Patrick Stanfield - 47, of Hollywood passed away on Sunday, April 2, 2023. Funeral services are set for 3pm Thursday, April 6, 2023 from the W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with Bro. Reggie Byrum officiating.

Burial will be in Mt. High Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 12pm until service time Thursday at the funeral home.

Marylou Rebecca Freeman - 74, of Attalla passed away on Sunday, April 2, 2023.

Funeral services are set for 2pm Friday, April 7, 2023. Burial will be in Sweet Home Baptist Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5 until 8pm Thursday at the funeral home.

Donald Wayne Bailey - 57, of Ft. Payne passed away on Monday, April 3, 2023.

The family will have a visitation on Tuesday, April 4, 2303 from 5 until 8pm at W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel.

6 - Friday - April 7, 2023

Southern Torch

Truck Ramp Proposed for Joe’s Truck Stop

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

FORT PAYNE, ALA.-- The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) held a public involvement meeting on Tuesday, March 28, to discuss plans for an emergency truck ramp for Joe’s Truck

Remains

Stop.

“This project would construct an emergency truck arrester ramp on Alabama 35 coming down the mountain just before it turns from Wallace Avenue to Fifth Street. The arrester bed would allow truck drivers to safely halt their trucks if they have problems braking

coming downhill.

Brake failures have been cited as an issue in some crashes with heavy trucks at this location, so this proposal seeks to address that concern” according to Seth Burkett, ALDOT North Region Public Information Officer.

The proposed

ramp will displace a building owned by the City of Fort Payne, which is leased by Foster’s Tranining Facility and four homes.

The ramp will use pea gravel to aid the slowing down of the trucks in emergency situations. The sidewalk will be moved to the west side of the truck

ramp to maintain bicycle and pedestrian access.

“It’s probably too soon to speculate about a possible timeframe for construction, as we are still gathering public input and must complete this environmental process before completing design and acquiring right of

way. I think it’s unlikely to begin construction before FY 2024 though.

Online public involvement is still ongoing at www. aldotinvolved.com.

Comments can be submitted through Friday, April 28, 2023” concluded Burkett.

Axing

Councilmember Phillips abstaining.

The termination of City Attorney, Pat Tate, was on the agenda as new business.

Councilmember Chris Busby stated that Tate had lied to the Council on March 20, stating there was no ordinance (Ordinance No. 83-01) to govern the firing of the police or fire chief.

“Do you know who the City Attorney was in 1983? Pat Tate. Who do you think drafted the ordinance?” asked Councilmember Busby.

“I feel like we need someone new in here, new blood, that will give new fresh ideas for the town, do more research, have more thoughts….just new blood” stated Councilmember Karen Vest.

“He has run his course” stated Councilmember Jack Martin.

The Mayor asked the Council to table the termination of the City Attorney Pat Tate until the recent amendments were drafted.

“If he wants to come in and apologize to us for lying to us, we might keep him on” stated Councilmember Busby.

The motion to table was voted on and passed, with Councilmember Vest opposing.

Stephanie Fritz, President of Fritz Steel addressed the Council on her concerns as a business owner in the Town of Valley Head, with no current fire protection. She called upon the Mayor and Council to reinstate Dustin Burt as Valley Head Fire Chief.

“I strongly urge the Council and the Mayor to really consider when you are making these kinds of decisions because fire protection and police protection are critical to any town and especially as a business owner, there are important to me” stated Fritz.

“In a manual I read, it states that “although a town is not obligated to create and operate a fire department, once one is

organized and provided for the town, a duty is now owed to the citizens of the town and you can be held liable for negligence if you are failing to provide fire protection” continued Fritz.

The lifting of the suspension of Fire Chief Burt was then discussed.

Brandy Clayton, who was filling in as Clerk asked if the lifting of the suspension would need to be made in form of a motion.

“We didn’t remove him from his duties, the mayor did that on his own” Council member Chris Busby stated.

“I’m all for it. I’m ready to reinstate him” stated Mayor Mike Key. In new business, the Council accepted the resignation of Valley Head Town Clerk Debra Rhodes.

Applications are being accepted for the open position for two weeks. Mayor Key recommended a committee that includes Karen Vest, Adelle Phillips, Brad Gregg, and Lamar Bray to interview candidates.

The next item on

the agenda was a request by some of the Council, for the removal of Mayor Key. Mayor Key asked what were the grounds for removal.

“Lying to the City Council for one” stated Councilmember Busby.

“This removal of the town’s mayor is an illegal action. The town council does not have the authority to remove any elected official unless he or she has been convicted of an ethics violation or convicted of a crime by the court system, or impeached by the courts. Therefore this action can not go through” stated Mayor Key. Councilmember Busby asked to make a motion of no confidence in the Mayor.

Mayor Key, asked “Where are you going with that?’

“Just making it on the record” stated Councilmember Busby.

After over an hour of heated debate, the council adjourned.

The Valley Head Council will meet again on May 1, 2023.

enhance damage prevention. Families can use this form of communication to seek advice, exchange local recommendations and share neighborhood information.

“Alabama 811 is a valuable source to ensure safety and precaution before digging,” Commissioner Chris “Chip” Beeker Jr. said.

“The partnership with the Nextdoor app will only enhance awareness and the importance of dialing 8-1-1.”

“National Safe Digging Month serves as an important safety reminder we want everyone to take note of before starting their spring and summer outdoor projects,” Commissioner Jeremy H. Oden said. “The simple yet crucial step of contacting 8-1-1 not only ensures the safety of the homeowner before they dig, but also helps prevent damage and service interruptions for underground utilities like natural gas, electricity, and water.”

FROM PAGE 1

Nick Welden thanked the Search Dog Unit and all of the volunteers that participated in searching for Makenna. He gave a special thanks to Fisher Rescue Squad for organizing the searches.

“This is such a terrible tragedy and I can not even begin to imagine the pain that this family is feeling at this time.

Thank you to all that volunteered time to help search for this precious girl, we had all hoped and prayed for a different outcome. Please keep the family and friends of Makenna in your prayers for months to come” stated DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden.

Makenna’s family asked for privacy during this time of mourning. There will be a memorial service at a later time.

consideration, to amend Ordinance No. 83-1, taking out the Mayor’s name and authority to appoint or suspend a police or fire chief.

Councilmember Adele Phillips and Mayor Mike Key voted against the removal.

Since the vote was not unanimous, Mayor Mike Key stated that the ordinance would be tabled until next month. Several council members read the rules directly from the League of Municipalities manual, stating that only a quorum was required to pass.

Councilmember Chris Busby stated that the Council would discuss this or they would adjourn.

The reason for the removal of the mayor’s name would be so that the mayor would not have absolute control over those departments.

After a debate, Mayor Key agreed to the amendment of the ordinance under protest, with

MONTGOMERY, Ala. — With warmer weather and signs of spring in sight, April serves as the perfect reminder for Alabama homeowners to call 8-1-1 when planning outdoor projects involving digging.

Recognizing April as “811 Safe Digging Month,” the Alabama Public Service Commission (APSC) recommends using the free service to avoid damaging important underground utility lines, which could cause injury and

service disruptions.

“To prevent unnecessary damage to utilities around your home, call 8-1-1 before you dig,” President Twinkle Andress Cavanaugh said.

“Calling 8-1-1 first protects you, your family, your home, and your community.”

Other around-thehouse projects to utilize the service, which is required by law before any excavation can begin, include landscaping, installing a fence, or adding a deck onto the

FROM PAGE 1

Alabamians Reminded To Call 8-1-1 Before Digging

home. Once a utility company is notified, the company will send a representative to the homeowner’s property

to mark underground lines with paint and flags.

Alabama 811 also teamed up with the Nextdoor app to

Southern Torch

Friday - April 7, 2023 - 7

Zoning Change for Cornerstone

By Marla Jones Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

RAINSVILLE, Ala.-- (Full Video on Southern Torch Facebook) The Rainsville City Council held its regularly scheduled council meeting on Monday, April 3.

A Public Hearing was held to take comments regarding the rezoning of 41 acres of land owned

by Cornerstone Christian Academy from B-1/R-1 to Agriculture. The

current zoning ordinance requires that schools be zoned for agriculture.

Adjoining property owners expressed their concerns regarding baseball fields, football fields, lights, and traffic.

Mayor Rodger Lingerfelt stated that they did not want to put traffic through the residential neighborhoods.

Cornerstone officials stated that those ballfields would be 10-20 years down the road. The school currently has leases

with the City for baseball and football fields.

“We want to assure our neighbors that we are not trying to encroach upon them or try to make their property values plummet. A good school will only make property values increase. Cornerstone is a good school, we have 550 students now” stated Cornerstone Board Member, Robert Reed.

After hearing from neighbors and Cornerstone officials,

the Council suspended the rules for immediate consideration and passed Ordinance 04-03-2023, which changed the zoning for Cornerstone from B-1/R-1 to Agriculture.

In other business, the Council voted to: • Change Court Payment Portal to Court Solutions • Surplus (2) Unused Computers/ Library—Resolution 04-03-2023 • Hire Katylin Hilley as Summer Employee Library (15-20 per week) • Contract with

Michael’s Tree Service to remove (3) Trees from Dilbeck Rd in the amount of $1500.00 • Give the Georgia High School Rodeo Association a $500.00 Sponsorship- The rodeo will be held on April 15-16 at the Northeast Alabama Agribusiness Center.

Adult tickets are $10 and kids are free.

Georgia High School Rodeo Association is closer for local youth to participate in than the Alabama High School Association.

• Amend the pay

scale for retired workers who come back to help and summer workers who only work a limited amount.

The Council will accept bids from the public on a 2006 Dodge Pickup with 186,000 miles. Bids will be opened on April 19 at 12 p.m.

The next regular council meeting will be held on April 17, with a work session beginning at 4 p.m. and a regular meeting beginning at 4:30 p.m.

SPORTS

Coker Named as FP Head Basketball Coach

By Marla Jones Sports Editor

marla@southerntorch.com

FORT PAYNE, Ala.--Coach Robi Coker announced his resignation as the Class 3A Plainview Head Basketball Coach on Friday, March 31.

At Monday’s meeting of the Fort Payne City Board of Education, Coker was announced as the new coach for the Class 6A Fort Payne Wildcats.

“It’s a unique opportunity that we felt was best for our family,” Coker said.

“Fort Payne is the largest school system in DeKalb County. We felt like it provided some unique opportunities for our three children. We have a niece and nephew already there.

My sister-in-law works

there. It all lined up for us to do what is best for our family.”

The Fort Payne Wildcats went 10-19 last season. Fort Payne went to the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) final four in 2000. They have not been to AHSAA Northeast Regionals since 2017.

“It’s a great opportunity for growth,” Coker said.

“It’s going to take an all-hands-on-deck mentality. This is the first time I will have worked in a city system. I think we have great resources.

There is a commitment from Fort Payne Superintendent Brian Jett and the board to make basketball exciting there.”

“Change brings a lot of excitement,” he said. “Building is fun.

(Former Texas football

Fort Payne Superintendent Brian Jett congratulates Coach Robi Coker on winning the Class 3A AHSAA State Basketball Championship.

Catch of the weEK Submit your photos to marla@southerntorch.com, to be featured as our Catch of the Week

coach) Darrell Royal said, ‘Building is fun.

Maintaining is (tough).’

There is a lot of truth in that. I think as men we need new challenges, and I look forward to attacking this challenge daily.”

In the ten years that Coker spent at Plainview, he won 274 games and four Class 3A State Championships, in 2018, 2019, 2022, and 2023.

“I was extremely lucky honestly,” Coker said. “I inherited a great situation at Plainview. We had a great group of juniors coming back that first year and we had a phenomenal peewee and junior high program. I had back-to-back classes of seventh and eighth graders that were loaded with good players. They bought

into the plan and worked their guts off.

I’m forever indebted to them.”

“It would be a disservice if I didn’t mention and thank those young men who were able to accomplish so much.

They made me a better coach and man.

For that, I am forever indebted. Those guys continue to be a blessing to me” stated Coker.

The text message and phone calls I received when this news got out were incredible. They will always be a member of our family” concluded Coker.

Coker started his job as Fort Payne’s Head Basketball Coach and met with his players on Tuesday.

Memphis Brandon, 9 years old of Rainsville, enjoyed some sun and fishing during Spring Break!

• • • •

• •

8 - Friday - April 7, 2023

Primary Care

­

Saturday April 15th 10:00AM ­

Southern Torch

Sand Mountain Electric Cooperative 2023 ANNUAL MEETING DeKalb County Schools Coliseum 1504 Main St. East Rainsville, AL 35986 TWO-DAY REGISTRATION Friday, April 14, 2023 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. or Saturday, April 15, 2023 8 a.m. - 11 a.m.

Please bring your electric bill for registration!

All registered members will receive a $25 electric bill credit!

• Free Bic pen and hand sanitizer while supplies last.

• Golf Carts available both days for assistance.

• Registered members receive a ballot to vote for three SMEC Trustees and a ticket for prize drawings on Saturday, April 15 following the business meeting.

• Business Meeting Saturday at 11 a.m.

­ ­

The Rita Jann Myrick Estate

GREAT OPPORTUNITY!

Register to Win

55 Acres in 12 Tracts, Two Homes in DeKalb County near Fyffe

Saturday Prize Drawings include: Two for $500 each Four for $250 each

Co-Broker

Wilson Re alty

256-845-1530

Check our video on YouTube under “The Rita Jann Myrick Estate, Grove Oak, Alabama”

Real Estate Terms: A 10% Buyers Premium will be added to the highest bid and will be paid the day of the sale. The balance is due on or before closing within 30 days.

Directions: From downtown Fyffe go south on Highway 75 4.5 miles. Turn right on County Road 400 and go 5.7 miles. Turn right on County Road 402 and go one tenth of a mile. The auction site is on the right. The property is on both sides of the road. Look for the Auctions United tract signs to identify each tract.

For more information: Call Jim Givens at Auctions United, 800-222-5003, Wilson Realty, 256-845-1530, Randy Wilson, 256-997-6972, or Beau Wilson, 256-844-7298 Licensed • Bonded • Insured

16 Commerce Court, Rome, Georgia

Jamess Givens Jame Givens, AAL Broker Lic. Q4D 8246 Jame James Givens Givens, AAL 1218

800-222-5003 auctionsunited.com

PLUS

FOUR DRAWINGS for $200 FREE ELECTRICITY PER MONTH FOR ONE YEAR Prize drawings will be held immediately following the business meeting on Saturday.

Registered members DO NOT have to be present to win any prizes!