ST Vol 9 No 18

Nick Jones

PAYNE, AL

Torch,

announce its acquisition

assets of The Times Journal. This deal consolidates the former news company

rivals and creates the largest media footprint in northeast Alabama. The acquisition also includes the assets of the Jackson County Sentinel in Scottsboro and the assets of the Sand Mountain Reporter in Albertville. Southern Torch, Inc.

owns and operates the Southern Torch weekly newspaper, the southerntorch.com daily news website, and FM radio stations WKEA 98-3 Wild Country & WMXN 101-7 The Torch.

“We are unbelievably excited about the

potential to grow our audience and put Southern Torch into a better position to serve this region of the state.”

Southern Torch Business Manager Eloise Smith said. “We welcome our new customers and readers to the Southern

Torch family and look forward to serving them.”

The daily news for each county will continue to run on each of the newspapers’ current websites. The online paywalls will be dropped,

Judge Steve Whitmire along with the

of

County

honored Thomas Whitten, who

retired from the DeKalb Youth Services. Judge Whitmire presented Whitten with a proclamation from House Majority Leader Nathaniel Ledbetter and Senator Steve Livingston, honoring him for his many years of service to the children of our area. A reception was held in Whitten’s honor after the Board meeting.

During the Worksession, the audience was treated to a musical number, from The Beauty and Beaust Jr. play, performed by the Ruhama Fine Arts After School Program.

The play will be held at the DeKalb Theater this weekend, on May 5 beginning at 7:00 p.m. and two

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

HENAGAR, Ala.-- (Full video on Southern Torch Facebook Page) The City of Henagar hosted its second Community meeting on Tuesday, May 2, regarding a proposed medical cannabis facility, to locate in the City.

In the 2021 legislative session,

The Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission (AMCC) was established and signed into law by Governor Kay Ivey.

The Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission began considering applications on September 1, 2022.

Only five licenses to grow in the state of Alabama will be awarded. Thirty-eight have applied for the license. RX

Connections

President Troy King applied for an integrated license for a potential facility in Henagar.

King, a former Alabama Attorney General, said that along with having many dear friends in the area, he picked Henagar as a potential site for a reason.

“When we began

Mountain Laurel Arts & Music Festival

National Play Outside Day

By Marla Ballard Reporter

DEKALB COUNTY & JACKSON COUNTY

May 13 - Pisgah, Alabama, 1st Annual Mountain Laurel Arts & Music Festival CR-374 Pisgah, AL 35765 at Pisgah Civitan Park.

10:am – 5:00 pm

Come enjoy Alabama’s best-kept secret, the majestic Pisgah Gorge!

Spend the day walking the mountain trails, seeing the magnificent waterfalls, and learning about the history, lore, and native plants of this awe-inspiring hidden gem.

Talented artists and craftsmen will be showing works of all kinds and will be available for purchase.

Musicians include

JT Traylor, Scottsboro HS Steel Drums,

Northeast State Jazz Band, Grammy Award Winner Bucky Barrett, Judy Nicole, Aaron Shavers & State Route 71, and James Roberts & Jody Rhodes. Plus a car show! 10:00 – 1:00.

And of course, there will be delicious food too!

Free admission. $5.00 parking.

Beautiful memories with the entire family.. priceless.

For more information or to register for the arts and crafts show or car show, email pmiles@ hiwaay.net

Find us on Facebook at Mountain Laurel Art and Music Festival.

- National Play Outside Day goes mostly unnoticed, officially it is the first Saturday of every month, so that makes tomorrow - May 6th the next opportunity to participate. It is a day to put down the electronic devices, get off the sofa, pull away from the desk, ignore problems, and get outside and have some fun.

National Play Outside Day began in 2011 and was founded by Aaron Wiggans and Rhonda D. Abeyta because in 2011 it was reported that a mere 30 percent of all children in America were playing out of doors.

The duo recognized the digital age had changed people and their activities and they set out on a mission to challenge families to limit screen time.

One of the reasons for this designated

play outside day is the hope that people will develop a lifetime habit of physical activity, create happy memories, and discover new interests.

The benefits to getting out of doors are numerous and include: freeing oneself from routine, relaxing the mind, and revitalizing the inner self.

Persons of all ages and physical abilities can participate in National Play Outside Day. Those with physical limitations can play a board game, blow bubbles, or sit outdoors and read.

The options for play are plentiful: ride a bike, hike, walk, jog, run, swim, play a sport, toss a ball or Frisbee, fish, camp, fly a kite, visit a: city, state, or

national park, have a picnic, go horseback riding, go on a scavenger hunt, rock climb or repel, kayak or canoe, geocache, host an outdoor party, take photos, attend a festival, or go boating. Even in wintertime building a snowman or sledding can be enjoyed.

The Alabama Walking Park, located in downtown Fort Payne, is not just for children. A meditation garden located on the north end of the park and the walking track affords opportunities to all ages. The exercise equipment peppered along the path gives exercise enthusiasts more opportunities for increased health benefits. The splash pad and playground

Statehouse

By Steve Flowers

As I stroll down the halls of the Alabama Senate during this current Regular Session of the Alabama Legislature, I will stop and visit in the offices of my favorite legislative buddies. My favorite and first stop is with my longtime friend Jabo Waggoner. Jabo, being the Dean of the legislature, has the first prime corner office. He also chairs the agenda setting Rules Committee. Therefore, there is a throng of high priced lobbyists camped outside the door trying to get Jabo to put their bills on the Special Order Calendar.

Jabo and I will swap stories of bygone years and reminisce about past experiences. Jabo is a big sports fan and was a great college basketball player .In fact, Jabo was

one of the founders and remains on the Board of the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame, which is located in downtown Birmingham. Jabo, Gene Hallman, and Edgar Welden were the pillars and founders of this prestigious Institution. One of Jabo’s and my favorite remembrances is going together to the Olympic Soccer Games held at Legion Field in Birmingham. Recently while visiting Jabo, I thought, “I am with an Alabama political icon.” Jabo Waggoner has been in the Alabama Legislature for 50 years this year.

Folks, that is an Alabama record.

Jabo Waggoner is the longest serving legislator in Alabama history. He served 17 years in the Alabama House of Representatives and

is in his 33rd year in the Alabama Senate.

Jabo was first elected to the Alabama Senate in 1990. The heart of his district has always been the entire city of Vestavia. He also represents parts of Homewood and Hoover. This is a very Republican area and therefore, Jabo is an arch Republican.

Jabo is revered in Jefferson County, but his popularity extends beyond Jefferson and Shelby counties. When Kay Ivey was running for Governor for the first time in 2018, she asked Jabo to be her titular campaign manager. He introduced her as she announced her candidacy.

Jabo is adored by his Senate colleagues, especially the younger state senators. They throng to him for tutoring and

mentoring. The Senate leaders, Greg Reed of Jasper and Clay Scofield of Arab, seek his guidance on tricky senate maneuverings.

Jabo was the Republican Minority Leader of the State Senate from 1999 until the Republicans gained a legislative majority in 2010. He was the first Republican Majority Leader, then relinquished that role to be the Rules Chairman where he currently serves.

Jabo is married to his high school sweetheart Marilyn. They have been married for over 60 years. I have never met a more beautiful or sweeter lady than Marilyn Waggoner. They had four children, three sons and a daughter. One of their sons, Scott, died at an early age in an automobile accident.

Jabo and Marilyn

give’s children the needed activity for growing up healthy.

There is space, both at the Alabama Walking Park or at the Fort Payne City Park, to have a friendly soccer or football game. Picnic tables at both locations allow for both picnicking, board games, or arts and crafts.

Essentially all of the towns in DeKalb County have a park. Many have settings for outdoor sports such as basketball, volley ball, or tennis. Many of them have walking tracks.

DeKalb County Public Lake, located in Sylvania, is perfect for a stroll, biking, and boating. Bicyclists of all experience levels will find the road easy to travel along the 120-acre lake. The path is an in-and-out path that is a little over three miles in length. (Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays).

If it is raining splash around in some puddles or take a raincheck for the next good weather

are ardent members of the Homewood Church of Christ. They attend almost every Sunday and sit with Jabo’s best friend Dr. Swaid Swaid and his wife, Christy. Jabo’s and Marilyn’s children attend the same church.

Jabo Waggoner has done a lot for Jefferson County for over 50 years. It would take a book to chronicle his legislative accomplishments and good deeds. In the 1970’s Waggoner sponsored legislation which spearheaded the purchase of 45 blocks in downtown Birmingham for UAB’s expansion.

UAB purchased this property, which was valued at $8.5 million at that time. There is no telling what that land is worth today – probably well over $200 million to $300 million. Jabo was first elected to the

legislature in 1966.

It is no coincidence that UAB has grown into one of the premier medical and research institutions in America and the Crown Jewel of Alabama during that same period. Although Jabo is an arch conservative Republican, he has forged a close working relationship with his fellow Democratic Senate leader Roger Smitherman to work across the aisle for the good of Jefferson County.

In closing, in all my years of following Alabama politics, I have never seen a more modest or amicable leader than Jabo Waggoner, Jr. I have never seen or heard of anyone who has ever met Jabo that did not like him. Jabo Waggoner is an icon of Alabama political history.

See you next week.

Jabo Waggoner – An Alabama Political Icon

Valley Head Seeks New Attorney

Rainsville Adopts New City Street

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

VALLEY HEAD, Ala.-- (Full Video on Southern Torch Facebook) The Valley Head Town Council held its regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, May 1.

A controversial item on the agenda was the discussion regarding Valley Head Town Attorney, Pat Tate. Several members of the council requested firing him from his position last month, with the motion being tabled to the May meeting. After much debate, the council voted to accept applications for a new town attorney.

The Council voted to amend Ordinance 83-01, which removed the name “ Mayor” in regards to the Mayor and Council having the authority to fire or hire the Valley Head Fire Chief or

Police Chief. The Mayor automatically has one vote and would require the approval of the Council before any action could be taken.

Stacey Waldrep of VHIS spoke to the Council regarding the insurance coverage that the Town would receive for the Valley Head Fire Department.

The present insurance carrier would not cover the department if they provided mutual aid to neighboring states, Tennessee and Georgia. VHIS would provide such coverage and premiums would be lower. The Council voted to obtain volunteer fire department coverage through VHIS.

After interviews, the Council named Laura Wooten as the new Valley Head Town Clerk.

Dustin Burt, Valley Head Fire Chief gave a report regarding the Quick Attack Truck. The

Collinsville Drugs

“Caring for you like family”

(256) 524-2981

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!

May 5, Family Game Night @ the Library - pm Come to the library, for an evening of games and snacks! Moon Lake Library has a number of board games on hand, and you’re welcome to bring one of your own for folks to try out. If you can, bring snacks to share, and let’s enjoy an evening of Mentonestyle competition along with tasty treats. All ages are welcome. 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm.

May 6, Memories of Mayberry Day - The Town of Valley Head presents Memories

department responded to a fire and the truck was inoperable. The Council voted to fix the necessary repairs.

The Council appointed Kerry Breithaupt to the Zoning Board and Lyndall Ekins to the Planning Commission.

A discussion was held regarding adding to the Valley Head Town Hall to allow more members of the community to attend the monthly council meetings. The council recommended beginning research to `see if an addition to the present Town Hall would be feasible.

Mayberry Days will be held this weekend, in downtown Valley Head, and will feature over fifty vendors.

The next meeting of the Valley Head Town Council will be held on Monday, June 5, beginning at 6:00 p.m.

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

RAINSVILLE, ALA..-- (Full Video on Southern Torch Facebook) The Rainsville City Council held its regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, May 1.

The Council suspended the rules for immediate consideration and passed Ordinance 05-01-2023 which accepted Calvin Street in the Wells Estate Subdivision, as a Rainsville City Street.

The Council passed the following Resolutions:

• Resolution 05-01-2023 (A) which pertains to the

Hazard Mitigation Adoption.

• Resolution 05-01-2023 (B) which awarded the bid on a 2006 Dodge Truck to Councilmember Bejan Taheri, in the amount of $905.00.

• Resolution 05-01-2023 ( C) which authorized City Officials to execute Financial Documents.

Mayor Rodger Lingerfelt presented the Council members with the 2021-2022 Audit. Mayor Lingerfelt advised that the audit was available online at the City of Rainsville webpage.

In other business, the Rainsville City Council:

• Hired Matthew Wise at the

Maintenance/ Mowing/Shop—

Effective 4-26-2023 at a pay rate of $15.13

• Accepted Doug Combs Resignation/ CDL Driver—Public Works Dept Effective 5-01-2023

• Posted Court Clerk Position for (7) Days

• Amended Pay Scale

• Hired (5) New Pool Life Guards— Jasper Ferguson, Drake Linville, Callie Noojin, Halle Roberts, Cooper Cox $10.00 per hour

The next Rainsville Council Meeting will be held on May 15, beginning with a work session at 4 p.m. and a regular session at 4:30 p.m.

of Mayberry as a day of fun for the whole family! There will be a cruise-in, great food, lots of fun, live entertainment, door prizes and more. Characters from Mayberry will be featured. All proceeds go to benefit the Valley Head Volunteer Fire Department. The festival will be held in the downtown square of Valley Head. 9:00 am - 9:00 pm.

May 18, 19, & 20, US 11 Antique Alley Yard Sale - Explore the backroads and enjoy the US 11 Antique Alley and Yard Sale!

Over 30,000 visitors travel the 502-mile route shopping for antiques and collectibles. The route spans five states from

JACKSON BLAZE • 98-3 WILD COUNTRY • 101-7 THE TORCH

Meridian, Mississippi through Birmingham, Alabama to Dade County, Georgia on to Chattanooga and Knoxville, Tennessee and finally Bristol, Virginia.US 11 Antique Alley is a lively festival from start to finish. Indeed, hundreds of vendors make this sale too good to miss!

May 20, 1st

Annual Open Car Show - 10:00 am2:00 pm at Southern Ceramic Solutions 1595 Main Street, Fyffe, AL 35971. Food, Music, door prizes and more. No entry fees! Held at Southern Ceramic Solutions (1595 Main Street) in Fyffe. Everyone is invited. For more information call 256.440.1520

May 20, Miss Potato Festival

Pageant - The Miss Potato Festival

Pageant will be making a return again this year! The Pageant will be held at the Sylvania High School Lunchroom beginning at 10:30am. The pageant is open to girls residing in Jackson or Dekalb County from ages birth-18 years old. Entry is $40 with optional entries for $5 a piece.

Forms can be picked up at Henagar City Hall. Contact City Hall at 256-657-6282 for more details!

May 20, River Park Village Festival - Two stages! Two days! Music Saturday and Sunday until 3pm! FIRE SPINNING SHOW AT 9pm on Saturday!

Herbal workshops

and Garden tours on Sunday as well! Feel free to bring the whole family! Bert David Newton, Matty Croxton, Jess Goggans Band, Elisha Tatum and them boys and more TBA! This event is sure to grow in the months to come so it is wise to get your tickets now!!!

Early Bird Weekend

Passes with Camping$60 per person

Early Bird Weekend No Camping- $25 per person

Day Pass Saturday advanced $10

Show times are 1210pm Day of Show $15 at Gate Day Pass Sunday $10

Show times are 10am3pm

Kids under 6 and under Free Kids 6-14 $5

(256)638-6070

LEGALS

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA

CASE NO.: CV2023-900068.00

JAY G. SCARBORO and wife, MARION PERMENTER SCARBORO, Plaintiffs vs.

All that tract of land lying and being in the Southwest ¼ of the Northwest ¼ of Section 16, Township 5 South, Range 9 East, Huntsville Meridian, DeKalb County, Alabama, and being more particularly described as follows:

Beginning at the Southwest corner of the Southwest ¼ of the Northwest ¼ of Section 16, Township 5 South, Range 9 East, DeKalb County, Alabama, said corner marked by an iron pin next to a railroad tie fence corner;

thence run North 01 deg 55 minutes 00 seconds East along an old fence line for a distance of 446 feet to a point;

thence run North 00 deg 52 minutes 00 seconds East for a distance of 148.10 feet to a point;

thence run South 52 deg 23 minutes 00 seconds East for a distance of 216.7 feet to a point; thence run North 10 deg 01 minutes 00 seconds

East for a distance of 181.40 feet to a point on the South right of way of State Route 40; said State Road #40 has a right of way of 100 feet; thence run South 76 deg 04 minutes 00 seconds East along said ROW for a distance of 55.70 feet to a point on said ROW; thence continue to run along said ROW South 76 deg 04 minutes 00 seconds West for a distance of 110 feet to a point on said ROW; thence run South 01 deg 25 minutes 00 seconds

East for a distance of 608.33 feet to a point; thence run North 88 deg 52 minutes 00 seconds

West for a distance of 127 feet to a point; thence continue to run North 88 deg 52 minutes 00 seconds West for a distance of 269.30 feet to the point of beginning. Said tract contains 5.00 acres, more or less.

LESS AND EXCEPT:

Commencing at a stone marking the Southwest corner of the Southwest 1/4 , of the Northwest ¼ of Section 16, Township

5 South, Range 9

East of the Huntsville Meridian, run with the West boundary of said quarterquarter North 00 deg 14 minutes 0 seconds East 507.00 feet to an iron pin and the point of beginning; thence continue North 0 deg 14 minutes 0

seconds East 86.00 feet to a pipe; thence South 54 deg 43 minutes 41 seconds

East 216.13 feet to a metal object covered with concrete;

thence North 77 deg 37 minutes

08 seconds West 181.02feet to the point of beginning.

Containing 0.17 acres more or less. ALSO

LESS AND EXCEPT:

Commencing at a stone marking the Southwest corner of the Southwest ¼, of the Northwest ¼ of Section 16, Township

5 South, Range 9 East of the Huntsville Meridian run with the West boundary of said quarterquarter North 0 deg 14 minutes 00 seconds East 507.00 feet to an iron pin;

thence South 77 deg 37 minutes 08 seconds East 181.02 feet to a metal object covered with concrete and the point of beginning;

thence North 8 deg 39 minutes 44

seconds East 179.40 feet to the Southerly right of way line (100 feet ROW) of Alabama Highway No. 40; thence with said right of way line South 85 deg 11 minutes 29

seconds East 2.28 feet; thence leaving the road South 5 deg 00 minutes

36 seconds East 117.68 feet to an iron pin; thence South 9 deg 46 minutes 28 seconds West

68.49 feet to an iron pin; thence North 74 deg 50 minutes 07 seconds West

28.95 feet to the point of beginning. Containing 0.09 acres more or less. Containing in aggregate 0.26 acres more or less, lying in and being a part of the Southwest ¼, of the Northwest ¼ of Section 16, Township

5 South, Range 9 East, in DeKalb County, Alabama.

First National Bank of Mobile, its Successors and Assigns, and Fictitious Defendants

“A” through “F” whose names and addresses, and identities 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: First National Bank of Mobile, it successors and/or assigns; and 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

Case Number CV2023-900068.00 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 June 30, 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 28th day of April, 2023.

Said notice to be published May 5, 12, 19, and 26.

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA

IN RE: P.S.G.B.

CASE NO. 2023-113

NOTICE OF PROCEEDINGS

NOTICE TO: DOMINGO GUTIERREZ

MEJIA, FATHER/ RESPONDENT

RE: Petition for Name Change Order for P.S.G.B.

Please take notice that a Petition for minor child name change has been filed in said Court by Ana Bautista Perez. Please be advised that if you intend to contest said Petition for Name Change you must file a written response with the attorney named below and with the Clerk of the Probate Court, 300 Grand Avenue SW, Suite 100, Fort Payne, AL 35967 as soon as possible but no later than 30 days from the last date of this publication.

Said notice to be published April 28, May 5, & 12.

LEGALS LEGALS

IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA

CASE NO.: CS-23900045 ELENA FRANCISCA ORDONEZ

DOMINGO, Plaintiff, vs.

MODESTO GODINEZ PEREZ, Defendant.

NOTICE OF CUSTODY PROCEEDINGS

NOTICE TO:

MODESTO GODINEZ PEREZ MODESTO GODINEZ PEREZ, whose whereabouts are unknown, must answer the Petition for Custody and other relief filed by Plaintiff/Mother, Elena Francisca Ordonez Domingo, by the 5th day of June 2023, or, thereafter, a judgment by default may be rendered against him in Case No.: CS-23-900045, in the District Court of DeKalb County, Alabama.

Said notice to be published April 14, 21, 28, & May 5.

IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF DEKALB COUNTY, ALABAMA

CASE NO.: CS-23900046

EMILY VELASQUEZ RAMOS, Plaintiff, vs. UNKNOWN UNKOWN, Defendant.

NOTICE OF CUSTODY PROCEEDINGS

NOTICE TO: UNKNOWN UNKNOWN UNKNOWN

UNKNOWN, whose whereabouts are unknown, must answer the Petition for Custody and other relief filed by Plaintiff/Mother, Emily Velasquez Ramos, by the 5th day of June 2023, or, thereafter, a judgment by default may be rendered against him in Case No.: CS 2023-900046, in the District Court of DeKalb County, Alabama.

Alabama.

Said notice to be published April 14, 21, 28, & May 5.

looking for the perfect site, we gravitated towards North Alabama” stated King. “We gravitated toward an area that was hit hard by NAFTA (North Alabama Free Trade Agreement) and saw a lot of jobs leave and we came to explore the possibility, and I’ll be honest, we were greeted so warmly up here by everyone.”

The operation if awarded for Henagar, will be a seed-to-sale location. They would grow, process, distribute, and operate dispensaries. Workers would go through background checks and receive all necessary training to be successful. The goal of RX Connections is to hire employees from the area.

King stated that up to 200 jobs would be created with pay that would be starting at $15 per hour. Second Tier Managers would have a salary of $50 to $60K per year, Director Level Salary would range from $85- to $120K per year. The company would provide a full benefits package and advancement opportunities.

The economic

impact of the creation of 200 jobs would directly affect Henagar with $8,079,972 in compensation to workers, according to Jobs EQ. RX Connection requests that you let your voices be heard and share your comments with the AL Medical Cannabis Commission, whether they be for or against the proposed facility. Scan the QR code Located on the front page picture to go directly to their site.

and online news consumption will be free to the public. The midweek papers and the weekend papers will continue to run on their current schedules. The acquisition also includes magazine products in each county.

In the coming months, Southern Torch will develop a digital advertising and marketing division to better serve our customers and offer cuttingedge products that the current market demands.

The Southern Torch will continue its print edition throughout the month of May. The paper will celebrate memories of their nine years in print before combining with The Times-Journal.

Burn Ban In Effect

Submitted Article

FORT PAYNE, ALA.-- The Fort Payne Fire Department has released the following regarding the Burn Ban that went into effect on May 1.

The annual burn ban issued for Dekalb County, Alabama by the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM)

will be in effect from May 1, 2023 – October 31, 2023. No burn permits will be issued or

allowed in the City of Fort Payne during this time frame as per ADEM guidelines. The ADEM burn ban restrictions do not prohibit campfires for cooking purposes or the use of outdoor fireplaces.

If the City of Fort Payne or Dekalb County is placed under a “NO BURN ORDER” at any time due to drought conditions, then there will be no permitted burning of any kind until drought restrictions are lifted due to fire hazards and safety concerns.

Wilson

Terry Delane Chance - 80 of Gaylesville, Alabama, passed away Saturday, April 22, 2023. He was born January 12, 1943 in Port Arthur, Texas Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Saturday, April 29, 2023 at Wilson Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Ricky Clanton and Todd Chance officiating. Burial will follow in Glenwood Cemetery.

Betty Sue Langley - passed away peacefully on April 26, 2023, in Guntersville, AL, surrounded by her loving family. A funeral service for Betty Sue Langley will be held on May 1, 2023, at 2 pm, with a celebration of life to be scheduled at a later date.

Burt

John “Mike” Goan - 79, of Mentone, Alabama, passed away on Friday, April 28, 2023 at Huntsville Hospital. The Family will announce a Memorial Service at a later date.

Maree Story

Culpepper - 92, of Fort Payne, Alabama, passed away on Sunday, April 30, 2023. Date of Funeral: Friday, May 5, 2023.

Funeral Location:

Crossville

J. T. Keys - 82 of Crossville passed away Monday, May 1, 2023 at Marshall Medical Center North. His funeral service will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 6, 2023 at Crossville Community Church. Burial will follow at Dekalb Memory Gardens. Bro.

E. M. “Dock” Shell and Bro. Lynn Darnell will officiate the service. Pallbearers will be Tyler Keys, Clay Allen, Cole Allen, Mike Bobo, John Jordan and Dino Richards. Jackie “Coach Mac” McDaniel will serve as honorary pallbearer. The family will receive friends at the church from 12 until 2 before the service.

Rainsville

LB McFall, Jr. - 90 of Fyffe, Al passed away on Monday, April 24, 2023 at Collinsville Nursing Home. Funeral service will be held on Sunday, April 30, 2023 at 2PM at Broadway Baptist Church Faith Chapel. Burial will follow in Mountain View Memory Gardens. Visitation will be at Rainsville Funeral

Home on Saturday, April 29th from 4PM-7PM.

William Theron Petrey, Jr. - 77 of Powell passed away on Thursday, April 27, 2023 at his residence. No services will be held.

Faye Gilbreath - 87 of Rainsville, AL passed away on Saturday, April 29, 2023 at her residence. Grave side service will be held on Monday, May 1, 2023 at 2PM at Plainview Baptist Church Cemetery. Visitation will be at Rainsville Funeral Home on Monday, May 1st from 11:30am-1:30pm.

Rickey Womack - 53 of Sylvania passed away on Tuesday, May 2, 2023 at Gadsden Regional Medical Center. Funeral service will be held on Thursday, May 4, 2023 at 2PM at Old Sardis Holiness Church with Bro. Oron Whitley and Bro. McCoy Wooten officiating. Burial will follow in Old Sardis Cemetery with Rainsville Funeral Home.

Scottsboro

Joanne Moss - 84, of Hilton, SC, formerly of Jackson County, Alabama passed away on Monday, April 24, 2023. Graveside services will be held on Monday, May 1, 2023 at 2:30 pm at the Pinehaven Memorial Gardens with Rev. Donna King officiating. The family will receive friends at Scottsboro Funeral Home on

(256)605-4427

marla@southerntorch.com

Monday, May 1, 2023 beginning at 12:00 pm until 2:00 pm.

Donna Sue Burgess - 54, of Woodville, Alabama passed away on Tuesday, April 25, 2023. Donna was willing to help out with her nieces and nephews and great nephews and great nieces whom she loved dearly. Funeral services will be held on Friday, April 28, 2023 at 11:00 am at the Scottsboro Funeral Home. The family will receive friends at Scottsboro Funeral Home on Thursday, April 27, 2023 beginning at 5:00 pm until 8:00 pm.

Joe Ronald Abercrombie - 85 of Scottsboro, Alabama passed away Saturday April 29, 2023. He was a US Veteran. Mr. Abercrombie loved Alabama Football and all sports and had the biggest heart. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, May 5, 2023, at Scottsboro Funeral Home with Bert Simpson officiating. A burial will follow in Hopewell Community Cemetery in Hanceville, AL. The family will receive friends at Scottsboro Funeral Home on Friday beginning at 10:00a.m. until 11:00 am.

Luke Crockett - 33, of Scottsboro, Al passed away Sunday April 30, 2023. He was a Member of First United Methodist Church in Scottsboro, Alabama. Luke loved the outdoors where he

fished hunted and just spending time with his kids. The Funeral Service will be Thursday May 4, 2023 at 1:00pm at Scottsboro Funeral Home. The visitation will be Wednesday from 5:00pm till 8:00pm at the funeral home. The burial will be at Bryant Cemetery in Fackler, Al.

W.T. Wilson

Floyd Kilgore - 91 of Crossville, passed away Monday, April 24, 2023. Funeral Services will be held at 2pm on Wednesday, April 26, 2023 at W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with burial to follow in Smith Chapel Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1pm-2pm, prior to the service, on Wednesday, April 26, 2023 at the funeral home. Officiating is Rev. Bill Mead. Lionel Curtis Gilbert - 82, of Geraldine passed away on Thursday, April 27, 2023 surrounded by his family at Shepards Cove Hospice. Per his wishes there will not be any services held. He is survived by his daughter, Darlene (Phillip) Mosley;

OBITUARIES Burt Funeral Homes

grandchildren, Alex (Haley) Mosley, Luke (Carlie) Mosley, and Sam Mosley; sister, Brenda Gilbert; and brother Dwight Gilbert. He was preceded in death by his wife, Elaine Gilbert; mother, Margie Thacker Gilbert; father, Glenn Gilbert; sister, Libby McClendon; and brother, Phil Gilbert, Geneva Harbin74, of Rainsville passed away on Thursday, April 27, 2023. A memorial service will be held at 2pm Sunday, April 30, 2023 from the W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with Bro. Terry Kisor officiating. The family will receive friends from 1 until 2pm Sunday at the funeral home.

Andrea D. Ballas51 of Albertville (New Harmony Community), passed away Saturday, April 29, 2023. Funeral Services will be held at 11am on Tuesday, May 2, 2023 at W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with burial to follow in Roselawn Cemetery @ Athens, AL. The family will receive friends from 10am-11am, prior to the service, on Tuesday, May 2, 2023 at the funeral home.

Graveside Service at Fischer Cemetery in Fort Payne, AL. Funeral Time: 2:00 PM.

performances on May 6, beginning at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Tickets can be purchased at the door for $5.

The DeKalb County Board of Education went into Executive Session with no action taken.

The bid for a Fyffe High School Digital Sign by Cryer Signs in the amount of $42,022.20 was approved by the Board.

The following Retirements were approved:

• Bradley Waddell - Bus Driver - Fyffe High SchoolRetirement - 6/1/23

• Pat Gregory - CNP WorkerValley Head High School - Retirement - 6/1/23

• Kelley Maddox - Science TeacherValley Head High School - Retirement - 6/1/23

• Vickie NaylorItinerant Special Education Paraprofessional - Crossville High School - Retirement - 6/1/23

• Rhonda Jones

- Bus DriverPlainview High School - Retirement

- 6/1/23

• Sandra Freeman - Itinerant Special Education Paraprofessional

- Fyffe Special Services CenterRetirement - 6/1/23

• Carol SlayElementary Teacher - Plainview High School - Retirement - 6/1/23

• Angela Camp

- Elementary Teacher

- Valley Head High School - Retirement

- 6/1/23

• Eve BiddleBusiness Education Teacher - Sylvania High SchoolRetirement - 6/1/23

• Sharlyn Huber - P.E. Teacher - Ider High SchoolRetirement - 6/1/23

• Teresa Coots - CNP WorkerSylvania High School - Retirement - 6/1/23

• Phil BryanPrincipal - Crossville Elementary School - Retirement - 7/1/23

The following Resignations were approved:

• Issac Dismuke - EL TeacherCrossville High School - Resignation

- 4/18/23

• Ashlynn Jones

- English Language

Arts Teacher - Ider High SchoolResignation - 5/27/23

• Robi CokerP.E. Teacher and Boys Basketball Coach - Plainview High SchoolResignation - 4/4/23

• Katherine Suzanne SmithItinerant Speech

Language Pathologist - District

- Resignation4/28/23

• Kayla WilliamsElementary Teacher

- Ider High School

- Resignation - 6/1/23

• Bryant Nelson

- Secondary Social Sciences Teacher and Assistant

Football Coaching

Duties - Crossville High SchoolResignation - 6/1/23

• Mark WhittSecondary P.E./ Health Teacher and Boys Basketball Coach - Ider High School - Resignation - 5/26/23

The following Leaves of Absence were granted:

• Jordon Wright

- CNP WorkerPlainview High School

- 3/24/23-5/5/23

• Jennifer DavisPre-K Teacher - Ider High School

- 4/4/23-5/4/23

• Antonia Cordell

- English Language

Arts TeacherCrossville Middle School - 1/3/235/26/23 (Extended from 3/1/23)

• Kim ManessAcademic Supervisor - Central Office2/22/23-5/7/23 (Extended from 4/13/23)

• Whitney Whiteside - Assistant Principal - Plainview High School

- 5/30/23-7/31/23

• Morgan Dunn

- Kindergarten Teacher - Crossville Elementary School

- 8/1/23-9/4/23

• Brenda NashAssistant Custodian - Collinsville High School

- 4/5/23-6/5/23

• Brenda Gembe-Bautista

- Migrant LiaisonCollinsville High School - 3/14/23-5/26/23

• Laura KingElementary Teacher - Geraldine High School - 4/14/23-5/12/23

The following On the Job Injury were

approved:

• Laura KingElementary Teacher - Geraldine High School - 0 days

• Susan Shankles

- CNP WorkerPlainview High School - 0.5 days

• Susan Nelson

- CNP WorkerCrossville Elementary School - 0 days

• Amanda Potter

- CNP Worker - Fyffe High School - 3 days

• Carrie AtchleyHigh School

Counselor - Sylvania High School - 2 days

The following Transfers were made:

• Darin Bell from Elementary Counselor to High School Counselor at Plainview High School (2023-034) (Effective 5/1/23)

• Robin Potter from Elementary Teacher at Collinsville High School to Elementary Teacher at Plainview High School (2023-035) (Effective 8/1/23)

The following

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

Certified

• Rachel GoolesbySecondary English

Language Arts

Teacher - Fyffe High School (Effective 8/1/23)

• April Parnell

- Elementary Teacher - Sylvania High School (Effective 8/1/23)

• Cale Black - P.E.

Teacher and Boys Basketball Coach - Plainview High School (Effective 8/1/23)

• Jennifer Clifton - ELA Teacher (Leave from 4/3/23-5/26/23)

- Crossville Middle School Support

Laura OliverCNP WorkerGeraldine High School (Effective 4/3/23)

• Misty Day - CNP Worker - Geraldine High School (Effective 3/17/23)

• Bruce BeamAssistant Custodian (9-month/7-hour) - Plainview High School (Effective 5/1/23)

DeKalb County Superintendent of Education, Wayne Lyles announced that Plainview High School had achieved Level 1 Certification in Marzano High-Reliability Schools.

Lyles also announced that Crossville High School Agribusiness Teacher Adam Amos and Sylvania High School Will Dodd had earned the 2023 Agriscience Education Extended School Year grant. DeKalb County Schools that were recognized for their Participation in the 2022 NAEP Administration were as follows: Crossville Middle School, Fyffe High School, Collinsville High School, Plainview High School, Ider High School, and Valley Head High School.

Superintendent Lyles announced that Henagar Jr. High School feeder pattern to include both Sylvania High School and Ider High School

The date of the next Board of Education meeting will be held on May 11. A Work Session will begin at 4:30 p.m. with the regular meeting to follow at 5:00 p.m. in the Meeting Room at the Facilities Building.

Fort Payne Receives Perfect Audit

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

FORT PAYNE, Ala.-- (Full video on Southern Torch Facebook) The Fort Payne City Council held its regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, May 2.

Jennifer Forrester, of MDA Professional Group, presented the findings of the recently completed FY2022 Fort Payne City Audit. All items were in compliance with no discrepancies found.

“It was a good, clean audit as usual for the City” stated Fort Payne Mayor Brian Bain. “I am so glad the city employees do a good job keeping the cost down and keep us running smoothly” concluded Mayor Bain.

The Fort Payne City Council passed the following Ordinances and

Resolutions:

• Ordinance

2023-07, declaring certain City-owned property surplus and no longer needed for public or municipal purposes and to be sold to Inspired Properties (Angie McCurdy).

• Resolution

2023-10, authorizing a line of credit with First State Bank for $2.5 million to assist in payment of Sports Complex and Police Department renovations.

• Resolution

2023-11 authorizing the City to join the State of Alabama and other local governments as participants in current and future opioid settlements.

• Resolution

2023-12, accepting the lowest qualified bid for the Police Department renovations.

• Resolution

2023-13, accepting the lowest qualified bid for two (2) budgeted Fire

Department pickup trucks.

• Resolution 2023-14, authorizing a consultant agreement with Davis Consulting (James S. Davis) for Boom Days Production and Stage Management in the amount of $1,500.

In New Business the Council approved the following:

Activity Permit:

• Fort Payne Lions Club, BBQ Chicken Fundraiser, Rotary Pavilion, Saturday, May 20th from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.

The Fort Payne City Council went into Executive Session to discuss potential litigation, with no action taken.

The next meeting of the Fort Payne City Council will be held on Tuesday, May 16, beginning at 12;30 p.m., in the Council Chambers located on the second floor of the Fort Payne City Hall.