The Southern Torch, Vol 1, No 14

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

COMMUNITY MUSIC ON THE MOUNTAIN > PAGE 2

/ THURSDAY AUGUST 27, 2015 / VOL. 1, NO. 14 / $1.00

BUSINESS

SPORTS

TREAT OF THE WEEK > PAGE 5

COLLINSVILLE HOSTS JUNIOR HIGH JAMBOREE MONDAY NIGHT > PAGE 6-7

High school football kicks off in DeKalb County Instant digital prints are available at

Kilgore Express Pharmacy! Print from cell phone, iPad, or tablet by downloading the LifePics App available in your App Store or online at kilgorepharmacy.com for more options Print from Facebook Print from camera cards, usb devices, cd, dvds and more!! Guaranteed lowest • prices 4x6 $0.25 EA • 5x6 $1.39 EA • 8x10 $3.99 EA

Receive 1 free 4x6 print with each completed picture order Collinsville’s Daniel Mann, Mason McKinney, and Caleb Jones take the field before Junior Varsity Jamboree action kicked off Monday night in Collinsville. For more on Monday’s action, turn to page 6.

Collinsville secures $400,000 for sewer upgrades

By Karah Wilson karah@southerntorch.com

By: Joseph M. Morgan COLLINSVILLE,Ala.— A $400,000 grant was awarded to the City of Collinsville this week that officials say will be used to upgrade and expand city’s water and sewer system in order to meet the needs that will result from Koch Foods’ proposed $30 million expansion to their poultry processing plant in Collinsville.

The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) is administering the Grant using federal dollars made available to the state by the U.S. Department

of Housing and Urban Development.ADECA administers a wide range of programs that support law enforcement, economic development, infrastructure upgrades, recreation, energy, water resources, job training and career development.

The funding will allow the city to complete upgrades to the water and sewage system, infrastructure improvements critical to meeting the increased demands and needs caused by the Koch expansion in Collinsville. Recently recognized as the largest employer in DeKalb County, the chicken plant currently employs 836 and provides contracts to numerous poultry farmers in the

Pick up your copy of The Southern Torch at any of the following locations: FORT PAYNE: Jacks North Foodland The Strand The Spot South End Market Western Sizzlin Carters Beverage South Los Arcos Mexican Restaurant

RAINSVILLE: Southern Torch office McDonald's Foodland Fuel City Tophers Wings

IDER: Foodland COLLINSVILLE: Piggly Wiggly Jacks

THIS WEEK IN COMMUNITY

Dog Daze this Saturday This Saturday will be Fort Payne’s Annual Dog Daze…

Page 2

THIS WEEK IN BUSINESS

Treat of the Week: Page 5

DAWSON: Dawson Gas Station GERALDINE: Jacks FYFFE: Jacks Fuel City MENTONE: Mentone Market VALLEY HEAD: Gas Station HENAGAR: Texaco

THIS WEEK IN SPORTS

Collinsville hosts Junior High Jamboree Monday night All eight DeKalb County school played…

Pages 6-7

SYLVANIA: Gas Station

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

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FAITH

Whither thou goest It’s almost always when the bride comes down the aisle…

Page 4

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PERMIT NO. 60 RAINSVILLE, AL

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THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Thursday - August 27, 2015

COMMUNITY Annual quilt walk

To submit community news, contact: news@southerntorch.com Tel. 256 638 4040 www.southerntorch.com

Music on the Mountain

By Karah Wilson karah@southerntorch.com

COLLINSVILLE, Ala.— The Collinsville Public Library is set to host their 14th annual quilt walk Sept. 25-26. The admission for this event is $10.

The walk is a historic tour of Collinsville with over 300 quilts displayed in homes, Cricket Theatre, and Collinsville Baptist Church. Friday’s events will take place from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday’s events will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The historic walk will include a homemade bake sale, free parking, and a free open air-tram ride. Buy tickets at the Collinsville Public Library at 151 Main Street. If you have any questions or need more information, contact Jennifer Wilkins at 256-524-2323 or at jencollib@hotmail.com.

You can also go to the quilt walk website at www.collinsvillequiltwalk.com.

Musician Jimmy Fortune

By Karah Wilson karah@southerntorch.com

RAINSVILLE, Ala.— Rainsville’s annual Music on the Mountain will be held this Sat. 29 in the

Musician Norman Blake Northeast Alabama Community College lyceum. Guests this year will include Norman Blake and Jimmy Fortune. Blake is a Grammy winner for the

“O’ Brother Where Art Thou?” soundtrack.

Fortune is in country music’s Hall of Fame.

The event begins at 6 p.m. Tickets are expected to sale out quickly. To

order tickets, go online at musiconthemountainnacc.com or call 256-638-4418 ext. 2248 or visit their Facebook page.

The cost of the tickets are $15.

By Joe Morgan joseph@southerntorch.com

include dog tales, paw art, enrichment “sniffing” hikes, educational programs, adopt-a-pet opportunities, dog toys, and pet supplies.

Beginning at 11 a.m., canine expert Haley Conroy will be speaking on service dogs. At 12 p.m. the Bluegrass Folk Jam and Gypsy Begonias will be performing. The admission is free though donations are welcome.

For more information, contact 256-845-3548.

Dog Daze this Saturday FORT PAYNE, Ala.— This Saturday will be Fort Payne’s annual Dog Daze at Little River Canyon Center beginning at 10 a.m. and last until 3 p.m.

This event is hosted by the Canyon Center staff and volunteers.

Treats for pets, doggie games and stories, prizes for “best dressed” and “best trick”, and door prizes will be available.

Activities for dogs will

UFO Days in Fyffe this weekend

FYFFE, Ala.–––This Saturday Fyffe will be holding the 11th annual UFO Days. Gates will open at 9 a.m. and entertainment will begin at 10 a.m. The emcee for the event will be C.J. Jolley. The event will include live music, arts and crafts, and food vendors. The hot air balloons are set to launch between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m. There will also be entertainment and games for kids. Antique cars and

tractors will also be a part of the event, including a meet and greet with Barney Fife. The admission is free.

There will be a 5K held that morning before the festivities begin. Sign in is at 6:30 a.m. and the race begins at 7:30 a.m. If you wish to participate, you can sign up at racesonline.com. The entry fee is $25. You can also register your children for a one mile sprint for $20. The course will be ran backwards because of the heat.

money puts us in a position to be able to expand our system to meet the needs of the growing industry in Collinsville. It’s a big piece of the puzzle in terms of providing the infrastructure needed in order for a plant here to expand.”

The Community Development Block Grant

will be used to provide sewer services for the plant and allow them to tie into the city sewer system, which currently is served by an on-site and company-owned wastewater system. The town of Collinsville is providing local funding of $96,800 for the project.

By Karah Wilson karah@southerntorch.com

Collinsville secures $400,000 for sewer upgrades CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 region. In addition creating hundreds of new jobs, the expansion of Koch’s Collinsville operation will also create the need for contracts with 150 new chicken houses. The Community Development Block Grant will be used to

provide sewer services for the plant, which currently is served by an on-site and company-owned wastewater system. The town of Collinsville is providing local funding of $96,800 for the project.

Bentley notified Collinsville Mayor Johnny Traffanstedt that the grant

had been approved earlier this week.

Traffanstedt said he and other city leaders have worked aggressively in past months locally and down in Montgomery for a shot at winning the Grant.

“This Grant is important to the future of our city,” Traffanstedt said. “The

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THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Thursday - August 27, 2015

Publisher, Joseph M. Morgan Layout editor, Dwayne Adams

In memory of Coach Burrell

By Karah Wilson karah@southerntorch.com

COLLINSVILLE, Ala.— Collinsville teacher, Coach Josh Burrell, was driving on the morning of Apr. 16 when his car hit a metal pole. Burrell was pronounced dead at the scene, but his memory will live on forever.

Teresa McClain had the idea to memorialize Burrell through a bench that would be placed

at the school. McClain contacted Collinsville librarian Jennifer Wilkins about this idea. Wilkins contacted Linda Munoz, who has been involved in several projects with Collinsville.

Munoz never knew Burrell personally, but as she worked with the students she knew he was “beloved”. “Students would tell me that he would stand in front of the school in the afternoon,” Munoz said.

“He would help the students get on the bus.”

Munoz said she hopes to have the bench placed where Burrell used to stand so students would see it when entering the

bus. On the bench, there are different symbols to show what kind of person Burrell was. “There is a Georgia Bulldogs logo on there because he was a fan and there is a cross to show that he was a Christian. He was a World History teacher and volleyball coach at school so we put those on there as well.”

Munoz lives in Cuba, Alabama as a retired nurse. She began working with class in 1980 when her Antebellum home needed new windows.

For the past 15 to 20 years she has been working with mosaic glass. The past 12 years she has been

Bryson Strong

By Karah Wilson karah@southerntorch.com

RAINSVILLE,Ala.— 13-year-old Bryson Richey was having one last back-to-school get together with his friends on Aug. 4 before starting back as a 7th grader at Plainview on Aug. 6.

Richey, along with friends Jacob Henderson, Ethan Hope, and Jathan Underwood, decided to go on an ATV ride near Little Mountain Lakes Resort when Richey turned into a curve too

fast and the vehicle flipped. Richey’s leg was pinned under the ATV. Henderson, Hope, and Underwood rushed to help Richey and proceeded to call 911.

Richey was airlifted to Huntsville Hospital.

Richey’s mother, Danielle Richey, noticed that her son’s foot was cold and then learned that her son’s blood flow was cut off during the accident. His leg was then amputated from his knee down. Richey was

more upset by not being able to play football this year than the incident.

He is not pitying himself, but he is becoming impatient and is ready to move on from what happened. “The hardest part for Bryson is waiting to heal and the ghost pain. He’s very active and he wants to go back to his normal activities. He misses his friends and school. He’s more upset because it is unsure how it will impact his ability to play sports.”

teaching students and adults how to work with glass. Munoz is also involved with the Blackbelt of Alabama.

“It’s probably the poorest area we have in our country,” Munoz said.

The project she is apart of is the Children Patchwork History Project. With this project, she teaches children how to make mosaic quilts. “I feel like the arts are being left out of schools. Every child has a spark of creativity in them.”

Collinsville Public Library provided the workspace and McClain provided the supplies used to create the mosaic bench in memory of

Coach Burrell. The library was also able to write a grant for Munoz to use for whatever she needed.

Wilkins knew Munoz through projects she has worked on with the library. Munoz has created benches for the town’s quilt walk and turkey day. Munoz has work with students from the school to create 6 benches and a panther mural that can be found at the school. Wilkins hopes that there will be more art projects like these that will use the library workspace. “I love to work with any group involved with the arts,” Wilkins said.

Richey’s friends visit as often as they can. He has even received some special phone calls. Nick Saban, Gus Malzahn, and Noah Galloway have all sent Richey some words of encouragement. Saban sent a signed football, a picture, a media guide, a poster, and even invited him to watch a day of practice in Tuscaloosa.

Galloway, an amputee himself, sent his own words of encouragement along with a signed copy of Men’s Health which features him on the front.

The family says it will probably be midSeptember before Richey will be fit for a prosthetic.

Richey went under a hyperbaric chamber Monday to see if there is a way to speed up the healing of the soft tissue.

This is important because the tissue must be healed in order to wear the prosthetic. Richey will have two prosthetics, one for sports and one for normal use. Richey began hyperbaric oxygen therapy Tuesday. He will be going two hours a day for two weeks. “After the wounds heal he will be

wearing a shrinking device for seven to ten days,” Richey’s mom said.

“He will be reevaluated by a surgeon on Sept. 10.”

On Nov. 8 the Rainsville Freedom Run will host the first Bryson Strong 5K and Fun Run at the Rainsville Civic Center. The money raised will be used for the medical expenses not covered by the family’s insurance. The 5K entry is $25 and the fun run entry is $20. There will also be Dri-fit, longsleeve shirts to purchase for $20. You do not have to participate in the races to buy a shirt. Deadline for entry and ordering a shirt is Oct. 31. To register, go online to racesonline.com. Checks can be made out to Bryson Strong 5K and mailed to P.O. Box 645, Rainsville, Ala. 35986.

Registration of the day of the event is 1 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. For more information, the event’s Facebook page is Bryson Strong 5K and Fun Run.

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THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Thursday - August 27, 2015

FAITH

Whither thou goest conditioning, assured me that I needed to wear a tux with long tails, vest, and long sleeves. I looked hot, but not in a good way. I have to admit that I was a little nervous – maybe a lot. When I went in front of the congregation, the sweat was rolling off of me. I looked like a scene from a bad movie.

By Dr. John E. Morgan

Pastor - Collinsville Baptist Church

t’s almost always when the bride comes down the aisle. That’s what most guys say they remember most about their wedding. Put me down with them but only if you will let me add another memory. Gloria and I got married on a very hot August Sunday afternoon. We were both very active in church (I went to Sunday School that day), but we attended different churches. So, the agreement – wedding at her church building and my pastor would preside. The best man and I dressed in the church basement. Did I mention that it was hot?

No air conditioning in that part of the church. Gloria, who had air

When the rest of the wedding party began coming down the aisle, people quit looking at me. I caught my breath and wiped my face. Then I lost my breath. There she was. The most beautiful woman in the world.

Smiling at me as she walked down the aisle. Her face glowing, not with sweat but with love. For me. How could that be?

You see, it was appropriate that I felt a little embarrassed by my appearance. Because I knew that I did not deserve someone as amazing as her. I was unworthy. But her look told me what I already knew – she loved me anyway. This Sunday, August 30, it will be 45 years since that Sunday in Nashville. And I am still amazed that she can love me. But she does. And, in case you missed it, oh, how I love her.

My memories of much of the rest of the ceremony are a blur – our family and friends smiling, Brother

Christian leading us in exchanging our vows. Near the end of the ceremony, I do have that other distinct memory. Gloria and I faced each other and held hands. Then she sang “Whither Thou Goest I Will Go” to me. People had told her she would not be able to do it, but she did. People had asked me if I would cry. I thought I might, but I didn’t.

We stared deep into each other’s eyes and smiled. It was as if everyone else had disappeared from that building. Just Gloria and me.

Whither thou goest. And for 45 years she has gone with me whither I went. She meant what she sang.

To end the service, we knelt down facing each other holding hands and recited the Saint Francis prayer.

“Lord, make us an instrument of thy peace. Where there is hatred let us sow love; where there is darkness let us sow light…” The prayer concludes “it is in giving that we receive, … it is in dying to self that we are born to eternal life.” We were not just committing ourselves to each other. We were also committing ourselves to Jesus. That’s what a Christian marriage is.

Jesus made this clear in His own teaching. Marriage was a mess in the First Century. People were confused.

Divorce rampant. Sound familiar?

Jesus reminded them of God’s plan from Genesis – a man and a woman become one by the power of God. It is still His plan. Whatever the world, or movies, or courts say.

It is by the grace of God that Gloria and I found each other. By the grace of God that we have had 45 years together. Some lose their mates much sooner. Some never find a mate (God’s plan for them is being single and celibate. He wants to use their singleness). Some have failures in marriage and must begin again.

God’s grace gives us second chances. He still has a plan for marriage. One man, one woman united in Him for the rest of their lives. In a world of decadence and misery, the Church must keep repeating and living God’s plan.

When I remember our wedding, I remember Gloria walking down the aisle as I lost my breath at her beauty and her love. And I also remember that song and that prayer. When I helped her up from the prayer, we turned and walked back down that aisle. Smiling.

Ready for a reception, a honeymoon, a new life together. In a Christian marriage. Following God’s plan whither it goes.

Congratulations Brother John! Happy 45th Anniversary!

On behalf of the team at Southern Torch, and your church family at Collinsville Baptist Church, congratulations to Dr. John E. Morgan and his wife, Gloria, as they celebrate 45 years of marriage this week. Happy 45th Wedding Anniversary from Southern Torch and Collinsville Baptist!

Dedicated Fan

By Megan Blansit

Director of The Beautiful Movement - a youth ministry for high school girls. For more information, visit The Beautiful Movement’s Facebook page, where I post the time, place, and activity for each month

Today is Thursday, Aug. 27, 2015…. so, what does that mean? For many in Dekalb County it means that high school football season officially kicks off TOMORROW. Fall is in the air, the marching bands are getting ready to break out their fight songs, the football players are getting ready for the bright lights and roaring fans, cheerleaders are ready to cheer, and I am NOT ready to gain 15lbs from eating the fried Oreos and M&Ms at the concession stand.

I would like to pose the question, “Why do we go to football games?”

Maybe because we have a family member on the team or in the band?

Maybe we want a reason to get “dolled up?” (Girls) Maybe because we have school spirit (during and post high school)? Or maybe it’s because we live in the South and are

obsessed with football (which is totally okay).

Regardless of what motivates us to attend, ultimately we go to football games because in some form or fashion, being there is important to us. I’ve always heard the saying, “People make time for what is important to them.” As I get older and life gets crazier, I’ve come to completely understand that statement and know it to be true.

If you choose to follow my column in the weeks and months to come, you will soon enough realize that I am very random.

For example… I want to ask another question, “Why do we go to church?” Is it out of habit? Is it because we don’t want people to talk about us if we quit going?

Is it because we love the Lord and can’t wait to experience his presence in corporate worship? Is it because a friend, parent, or spouse nags us until we go? Is it because we are hungry for His word? Is it a social scene?

I’m sure that just like me, over the years you’ve heard people give dozens or even hundreds of

compelling reasons for attending church.

Regardless of our motivation, I would like to think that we go to church because going to church is important to us. I realize that may not always be the case, however.

What if every time our team lost a game, we quit cheering for them and starting cheering for another team? That would be absurd, right?

No team is going to be perfect. Yet, how many times have we become angry with God for not answering specific prayers, or even turned our back on Him completely? I imagine quite often.

I’ve found that sometimes God withholds answers to my prayers because he wants me to come back to prayer, to seek His face just a little longer, to be in his sweet presence one more time. He loves when we talk to Him. I’ve also found that he is the best listener a girl could EVER ask for. Also, maybe an unanswered prayer is an ANSWERED PRAYER. For example, what if you got the job you had been praying months for, but if you would have been chosen

for it, a drunk driver would have hit you on your way to work the night shift.

It’s a dangerous place to be outside the will of God. God is all knowing, whereas I am definitely not. When we give God control of our lives he works in mysterious ways and it is always for our good. The word says that He withholds no good thing from those who walk uprightly (Psalm 84:11.) Yes, friend, the creator of the universe wants the absolute best for you! It’s mind boggling actually to think of how great His love for us really is; my mind can’t wrap around it completely. He died an agonizing death for me, for you, friend. He would have died on the cross even if there was one person to die for. I also believe He loves the good people and the bad people. I will take it a step farther and say he is obsessed and crazy in love with the good and the bad people. His love doesn’t change just because we have a sinful day. Actually, the Bible says His grace is new every morning and that he throws our sins into the ocean and remembers them no more (once

we repent.) What a heart he has! He will not and cannot stop loving us, friend.

I’m not going to be like pastors who say, “Don’t give your football team more excitement than you do for Jesus on Sunday’s at church.”

Honestly, I wouldn’t want people yelling in my ear at church like they do at football games. But what I don’t want to do is give our LIVING God a DEAD praise. So, dear friend, I want to challenge you with this- during the answered and unanswered prayers, the good and the bad, please preoccupy your mind today with Gods extraordinary love for you. His love never fails, it never quits. For as long as God exists, his love remains. Love is who He is. And the cool thing?

This love is an everyday kind of love. He is not just a Sunday lover. Jesus is a fan of yours no matter what.

During the good and the bad, I want to be a dedicated fan of Jesus Christ.

I’m thrilled to have you along on this journey with me. I will see you guys next week.

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THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Thursday - August 27, 2015

BUSINESS Fontana’s Spinach-stuffed Chicken Parmesan, Served with a homemade garlic roll and house salad

Fort Payne, AL EXCELLENT

VERY GOOD

MEDIOCRE

MODERATE

WEAK

$7.99 We tried the spinach-stuffed chicken parmesan at Fontana’s, a new Greek and Italian restaurant in Fort Payne. Chicken breast stuffed with spinach and a white cream sauce, then lightly coated in crumbs and spices. This was our first time to Fontana’s and we enjoyed the spinachstuffed Chicken Parmesan. TORCH RATING: GOOD

Southern Torch Rating: 3.5 stars

ADDRESS: 100 1st St. SW Fort Payne, AL 35967

CONTACT: Tel. (256) 979-1700

CHAMBER CHATTER August 26, 2015 Carol Beddingfield, Executive Director

Chamber Chatter

The Chamber After Hours will be held on Thursday, August, 27th at the Western Sizzlin, 1114 Glenn Boulevard, SW, from 5 –7 PM. After Hours gives everyone the chance to network and learn about local businesses and to share information. The public is always invited to attend.

Miles Smith, the owner, opened the Fort Payne location in 2013. It was almost like a death in our community when the former restaurant closed.

Miles has really revamped all of the food bars. The choices are unbelievable.

I congratulate Miles on his community involvement.

Students in grades 5-12 are given free student meals for achieving the A-B Honor Roll. K-4 students receive their gift after being chosen student of the week.

On Monday night be sure to ask for your meal receipt and take it to the schools. Miles will give 10% of the sale to the school.

A $1,000.00 scholarship to Northeast Alabama Community College is given each year by Miles to a graduate of Fort Payne High School. The future plans are to extend the same to DeKalb County Schools.

Kristie Poe has now joined Miles as the Marketing Manager. Kristie was employed with Western Sizzlin for 23 years. She is also the contact person for catering services. Call her at 256-899-2678 or email, kpoe@farmerstel.com.

The history of Western Sizzlin goes back to 1962 when founder Nick Pascarella discovered a unique way to grill steaks at his Augusta, Georgia restaurant.

When Nick added flames to the top of the steak in addition to the bottom the steak tasted twice as good. Thus, the birth of the flamekist steak which is the trademark of Western Sizzlin.

His special seasoning, Gold Dust, adds to the flavor of the steaks. You can purchase the spices at Western Sizzlin online or at the restaurant.

In 1966 the first franchise was sold. Today there are over 75 locations across the United States.

Of course, Fort Payne has the best one. This column does not have the space to list all the variety of vegetables and fresh baked goods. There is even a food bar for those who are trying to cut calories.

Western Sizzlin is truly a family restaurant serving quality meals at an exceptional value. Visit Miles and his friendly staff for an enjoyable outing.

Join us on Thursday, August 27th, to learn more about the services of Western Sizzlin including a catering program.

RAINSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Tim Eberhart, Executive Director

Rainsville Chamber of Commerce

When you need a place to have a meeting, a good meeting room can sometimes be hard to find. Whether it’s for business, celebration or similar purposes, Rainsville has it’s fair share of versatile places scattered around town that you should keep in mind for the next time you need just the right meeting room.

The city-owned Tom Bevill Enrichment Center has two rooms you could rent on weekday afternoons and evenings, and all day on weekends. The auditorium is about 4,000 square feet in size with a large number of tables and chairs. It has a kitchen, a PA system and a stage, and rents for as low as $200. Reunions, wedding receptions, banquets and concerts are some of the types of events that are typically held there.

The TBEC’s smaller meeting room is known as the Joe Bowman Room. It will accommodate 30-35 people for table seating, and probably 45-50 if you move the tables out of the way. It rents for as low as $50.

Our office is in the same building. Feel free to contact me for rental details.

The Rainsville Super 8 has one of the best meeting rooms in the area. Contact the hotel directly at 256-638-1640 for rates and availability.

The Super 8’s meeting room will be the site for the our next business networking event. If you could benefit from networking with potential clients, make plans to attend the Chamber Sundowner at Thursday, September 10 at 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the hotel. Like Business After Hours events held in the past, the Sundowner will provide an opportunity to meet and greet business peers and community leaders in a relaxed, after-work setting.

The Super 8 will provide refreshments, so please RSVP them so they can have an idea of how many people to expect.

On the west end, Alice Circle has a room that might suit your meeting needs. It’s used for a lot of art-themed get-togethers, but it’s available for rental on days when there are none of those planned. Phone 256-638-2688 to find out more.

The Rainsville Golf & Country Club has a nice banquet room with a kitchen. We used it all day at our scholarship golf tournament last Saturday. It’s in excellent condition. Chairs and tables are provided, and it’s big enough for most of your meeting needs. For more information, contact the clubhouse at 256-638-8846.

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THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Thursday - August 27, 2015

SPORTS Collinsville hosts Junior High Jamboree Monday night Game One Collinsville 28 Ider 0 During first half play: •Collinsville Daniel Mann 51 yard run, Jason Perez kick 8:50 7-0 Collinsville • Collinsville Caleb Pruitt 45 yard pass from Caleb Jones, Perez kick 5:58 14-0 Collinsville • Collinsville Caleb Jones 43 yard run, Perez kick, 2:38 21-0 Collinsville • Collinsville Drew Bobo 26

yard run, Perez kick, 1:50 28-0 Collinsville.

During 2nd half play: No scores Collinsville scored the touchdowns on their first four possessions on only six plays from scrimmage. Ider struggled to move the ball all night. They did get the ball to the 17 yard line in the second half before turning the ball over on downs.

Game Two Geraldine 8 Valley Head 0 Game Two Geraldine 8 Valley Head 0 1st half - Geraldine Nathan Lofton 19 yard run, Cade Steifel run 5:59 8-0 In a defensive game, Geraldine

scored on the first possession of the game. Valley Head played strong defense, but they were unable to consistently move the ball though they did get beyond midfield near the end of the game.

Publisher, Joseph M. Morgan Layout editor, Dwayne Adams

By Joseph M. Morgan joseph@southerntorch.com

All eight DeKalb county schools played in the Junior High Jamboree Monday night at Collinsville. The four games each had two ten minute halves and some modified kicking rules.

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THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Thursday - August 27, 2015

SPORTS

Game Three Fyffe 22 second touchdown was Plainview 6 Fyffe’s set up by a fumble recovery.

1st half: • Fyffe Malachi Myers 4 yard run, Cage Cochran run, 5:38 8-0 2nd half • Fyffe Cochran 42 yard run, Parker Godwin run 7:41 22-0 • Plainview Tristan Willingham 7 yard run, run failed 22-6 5:38 •Fyffe Cochran 6 yd run, run failed, 0:59 14-0

Hunter Patton had a fumble recovery for Sylvania in the second half. The coin toss before this game provided an emotional moment as Plainview’s Bryson Richey went to mid-field in a wheelchair to call the toss. He was pushed by teammate Jacob Henderson. Richey lost part of his leg in an accident on August 4. He and his father assured everyone that he was fine and will be fitted for a prosthetic leg soon and expects to play again next year.

Game Four Sylvania 16 Crossville 0 1st half: • Sylvania Grant Atchley 21 yard pass from Hunter McCurdy.

2nd half: Hunter run 3:01 8-0

• Sylvania Bo Jordan 20 yard run, Hunter run 2:51 16-0 Both teams played very good defense. Sylvania was able to put together a scoring drive in each half.

Southern Torch looking for advertising rep!

SOUTHERN TORCH IS HIRING FOR THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS: Sports Editor–experience writing and background in athletics

Sales Representative–Sales experience preferred, but not required

Advertising Account Manager–minimum of 3 years outside sales experience required, advertising experience a plus

Subscription Sales Representative–Inside sales, telephone sales, retail experience, food industry experience, or customer service experience required Includes generous commission earning opportunities.

Staff Reporter–writing experience required

We are holding interviews this week, so if you are interested in joining the Southern Torch team, call 256-6385296 today!

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THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Thursday - August 27, 2015

Mr. Ilus Andrew Boggs

OBITUARIES

Age 89, of Rainsville passed away Friday, August 21, 2015. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, August 23, 2015 from the Broadway Baptist Church with burial to follow in New Home Cemetery. W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel directing services. The Family will receive friends from 2-8 p.m. on Saturday August 22, 2015 & Sunday August 23, 2015 from 11am- 12:30 p.m. from the W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel. Mr. Boggs’s body will lie in state at Broadway Baptist Church from 1 p.m. until the time of service on Sunday. Bro. Kevin McCreless, Bro. Don Spears, & Mr. Charles Warren will be officiating. Arrangements Entrusted to W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel.

Bobby White

Mr. Robert Lewis “Bobby” White, age 74, of Fort Payne passed away Saturday, August 22, 2015. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, August 25, 2015 from the W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with burial to follow in Valley Head cemetery. Rev. David McMillan & Bro. Craig White will be officiating. The Family will receive friends from 3-8 p.m. pm on Monday, August 24, 2015 from the W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel.

Billy Croley

Billy Richard “Bill” Croley of Gadsden died Sunday, August 23, 2015, he was 86 years old. Graveside funeral services will be held at 2pm on Saturday, August 29,at Skirum United Methodist Church Cemetery on County Road 20 in Dawson, Alabama. Rev. Wayne Tarvin and Rev. Earl Freeman will officiate. Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 29, 2015 from 12Pm - 2PM at Skirum United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers please donate to the Skirum Cemetery.

Mr. Croley was born in Akron, Ohio on August 7, 1929. Shortly after, his family moved back to DeKalb County where he was raised. He graduated from Geraldine High School in 1947. He served his country during the Korean War at Ft. Knox, Kentucky. He spent the next 50 years as a resident of Gadsden and running the family business, H.O. Croley Granary & Dairy until his retirement. He was a devoted member of McCauley’s Chapel United Methodist Church. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hubert and Doris Croley. Bill is survived by his wife of 59 years, Lou; daughter, Cindy Bradley (Jay) of Birmingham; son, Scott (Kimberley) of Guntersville; grandson, Lucas Bradley of Birmingham; sister, Patricia Davidson of Chattanooga TN; brother, Charlie (Grace) of Geraldine; a host of niece and nephews; and his faithful cat, Brando.

Charles Palmer

Rev. Charles Ralph Palmer, age 66, of Section passed away Monday, August 24,2015. Funeral services will be held at 12noon on Saturday, August 29, 2015 from the W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel. Burial will follow in Green’s Chapel cemetery.

Bro. Mike Keeble & Bro. Tommy Palmer will be officiating. The Family will receive Friends from 5-8 p.m. on Friday, August 28, 2015. Arrangements Entrusted to W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel.

Mr. Billy E. Brock

July 19, 1936 - August 23, 2015. Funeral at 11:00 AM on Wednesday 8-26-15 at Burt Chapel-Fort Payne. Visitation from 4:00-8:00 PM on Tuesday 8-25-15 at Burt Chapel-Fort Payne. Burial at Glenwood Cemetery. Officiating will be Rev. Ron Johnson. Wife: Linda Brock-Fort Payne, AL. Son: Johnny Henderson (Rachel) Mentone, AL. Sister: Emma Spillman- Rainsville, AL. Preceded in death by: SisterBrenda Gravett.

Mr. Jack William Johnston Sr.

(June 23, 1951 - August 23, 2015) Funeral on Tuesday 8-25-15 at 2:00 PM at Burt Chapel-Valley Head. Visitation from 4:00-8:00 PM on Monday 8-24-15 at Burt Chapel-Valley Head. Burial at Head Springs Cemetery. Officiating will be Rev. L. A. Smith & Troy Watts. Mr. Johnston retired from CenturyLink after 36 years of service and also served 6 1/2 years in the Army. Wife of 43 years: Peggy JohnstonFort Payne, AL. Son: Jack Johnston Jr. (Shannon)-Clarksville, AR. Daughter: Toni Freeman-Mentone, AL. Grandchildren: Logan Johnston, Hunter Johnston, Lauren Johnston of Clarksville, AR & Vandila Freeman-Mentone, AL. Brothers: Ted Johnston (Deborah), Johnnie Johnston (Rosie), Kenneth Johnston, Paul Fuller (Debbie), Paul Hadidon (Trish) & John Fuller. Sister: Brenda Jenkins. Many Nieces & Nephews. Preceded in death by Parents-David T. Johnston & Gaynell Pratt Johnston and Brother-Robert Johnston.

Linda Benson Britt

(Jan. 15, 1964 - Aug. 20, 2015) Survived by: 2 sons, Jonathan Benson and wife Cassandra, of Hollywood, Al & James Horton of Pisgah, Al. 2 sisters, Pat Roberts, of Pisgah, Al & Kim Stephens, of Scottsboro, Al. 4 brothers, Harris “Bud” Benson, of Scottsboro, Al, Bill Benson, of Scottsboro, Al, James Benson of Rosalie, Al, & Richard Payne of Albertville, Al. 1 grandson, Holden Blackwood of Hollywood, Al. A host of nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by: Parents, Jon and Opal Benson.

2 sisters, Margie Jones & Johnnie Faye McKenzie. Visitation was held at Rainsville Funeral Home on August 22nd from 6pm-8pm & Sunday from 10am-2pm.

Service was held at Rainsville Funeral Home on August 23rd at 2pm. Interment was at Rosalie Baptist Church Cemetery following the service. W.L. Hancock of Pisgah (Oct. 6, 1929 - Aug. 22, 2015) Survived by: Wife, Wanda Hancock. Daughter, Jeanette Cain and husband Scott. Granddaughter, Shannon Cain. Sister, Imogene Frost. Service was Aug. 24th at Kerby Funeral Home. Officiating was Rev. C.L. Wilborn, Rev. Ben Barrentine, and Rev. Jason Lee. Interment was held at Green Haven Memorial Gardens

Nellie Jo Owens

of Pisgah (Sept. 29, 1931 - Aug. 23, 2015). Survived by: 2 sons, Joseph Williams Owens and wife Teresa of Chattanooga, TN & Scott Parker Owens of Pisgah, AL. 2 daughters, Elizabeth Nell Williams and husband Rex of Pisgah, AL & Lori Jolene Jackson and husband Charles of Stevenson, AL. 9 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren. Preceded in death by: Husband, James Troy Owens. 3 sons, James Michael Owens, Roger Davis Owens, & Tony Jerome Owens Service was held Aug. 25th at Kerby Funeral Home at 2pm. Interment was at Pisgah Cemetery.

Sandra Jean Allison

(April 21, 1948 - August 20, 2015) Ms. Sandra Jean Weldon Allison age 67 of Ider, died Thursday, August 20 at her residence. Funeral services are Saturday at 1 pm ct at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel with Bro. Johnny Ellison officiating. Burial

will follow in Weldon cemetery. Family will receive friends from 4 to 8 pm Friday and 11 am until service time on Saturday. Survivors include son, Shane Allison, daughter, Julie Crow(Frog), grandchildren, Amanda McElrath, Savannah McElrath, Taylor Allison, Brittiany Colley, 1 great-grandson, sister, Rita Floyd(Hugh), brother, Jeff Weldon. Ms. Allison had worked as an LPN and was a member of Five Points Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her parents, Davis “Pete” and Betty Jean Satterfield Weldon, and son, Jason Glen Allison.

Iva Lee Gore Strickland

(March 17, 1921 - August 22, 2015) Iva Lee Gore Strickland, age 94 of Ider died Saturday, August 22 at Parkside Nursing Home. Funeral services are Monday at 1 pm at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel with Bro. Max Kessler officiating. Burial will follow in Weldon cemetery. Family will receive friends from 1 to 8 pm Sunday and 11 am until service time on Monday. Survivors include daughter, Brenda Clayborn, sons, Bobby Booth, Rick Yancy(Araceli), grandchildren, Crystal, Susan, Danny, Brittany, Christie, Brianne, Keith, Tammy and Robbie, several great-grandchildren and great great-grandchildren. Mrs. Strickland was preceded in death by her parents, Charlie Virgil and Brillie Hammonds Gore, husbands, George Booth Jr., Donald Kirkpatrick, V. L. “Red” Strickland, sisters, Omie Chandler, Jessie Lee Burgess, Elsie Taylor, Pearl Kessler, Velma Kessler, Audrey Kessler, brothers, R C, Gaines, Milford, Harvey, Virgil, Willis and Malcolm Gore.

Luther Leroy Thrasher

(August 13, 1945 - August 23, 2015) Luther Leroy Thrasher age 70 of Ider died Sunday, August 23. Funeral service are Wednesday at 11:00 am at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel with Bro. Jackie Wells officiating. Burial will follow in Unity cemetery. Family will receive friends on Tuesday from 6 to 8 pm ct and 9 am until service time on Wednesday. Survivors include wife, Joan Benefield Thrasher, daughter, Lisa Knighton(Richard), son, Joey Thrasher(Kristin), grandchildren, Alex Thrasher and Camryn Thrasher, sister, Ruthie Greeson. Mr. Thrasher was a 1964 graduate of Ider High School, worked several years as a dispatcher for the Town of Ider, was a member of Five Points Baptist Church, Ider Ashlar Lodge and Ider Eastern Star. He was preceded in death by his parents, Gene and Nellie Lacy Thrasher and brother, Herman Thrasher.

Roberta Tinker Phillips

(October 20, 1937 - August 24, 2015) Roberta Phillips age 77 of Flat Rock died Monday, August 24 at Dade Health and Rehab. Funeral services are Wednesday at 12:30 at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel with Bro. Floyd Kilgore and Dr. Virgil Stone officiating. Burial will follow Payne Gap cemetery. Family will receive friends, Tuesday from 3 to 8 pm ct and 9 am until service time on Wednesday. Survivors include daughter, Delta Ivey(Charles), son, Dennis Farmer(Martha), grandchildren, Roger Farmer(Nicole), Chasity Bowers, Vanessa Sloan(Joel), Tiffany Bryant(Corey), great-grandchildren, Mikayla Kearney, Lance Kearney, Dru Farmer, River Farmer, Lucas Bryant, Jacob Bryant, Jack Sloan, brother, Morgan Tinker.

Ms. Phillips was preceded in death by her parents, David Scott and Margie Lee Rogers Tinker, brother, Melvin Tinker and granddaughter, LeAnna Ivey.

Charles M.T. Sawyer II

Charles M.T. Sawyer, II died Saturday, August 22, 2015. He was born December 30, 1927 in West Palm Beach, Florida, and moved to Fort Payne in 1930 with his mother, Sarah P. Sawyer and sister, Sarah E. Sawyer, where they lived with his grandparents, Charles M. T. Sawyer and Nannie H. Sawyer. Charles joined the then First Methodist Church of Fort Payne at the age of ten. He graduated high school from Gulf Coast Military Academy. He was a veteran of World War II, then attended the University of Alabama, where he received a B.S. degree in pre-law, then LLB degree in Law. He was a member of the V.F.W., and a past Post Commander of American Legion Post No.89 in Fort Payne. He was past Company Commander of Company C 151 Engineer Bn. (at Valley Head and Hammondville) Alabama National Guard. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Tuesday from the First United Methodist Church of Fort Payne with Rev. Rickey Smith, and Judge Randall Cole officiating. Burial will follow in the Glenwood Cemetery with Military Honors. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 10 a.m. until the 11 a.m. hour of service. The family request in lieu of flowers, memorials be made to the First United Methodist Church, 206 Grand Avenue NW, Fort Payne, AL 35967, the Alpine Scout Cabin, Inc., c/o Bill Mitchell, 902 Driver Lane, Fort Payne, AL 35967, or the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692. Wilson Funeral Home and Crematory is in charge of arrangements.

Brownie Lowery

Mrs. Brownie Lowery, age 92, of Fort Payne passed away Saturday, August 22, 2015. She was born April 2, 1923 to the late Loyd and Clara Watts Smith. Mrs. Lowery was the Assistant City Clerk for the City of Fort Payne for many years.

She was a member of St. Paul United Methodist Church. Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Monday at Wilson Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Jim Russell and Rev. Darrell Morgan officiating. Burial will follow in Glenwood Cemetery. The family will receive friends Sunday from 5 until 8 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to St. Paul United Methodist Church. She is survived by her son, Michael Lowery; daughter and son-in-law, Susan and Jack Martin; and sister, Audrey Erwin. She was preceded in death by her husband, T.S. Lowery. Wilson Funeral Home and Crematory is in charge of arrangements.

Betty Jean Portwood

January 12, 1932 - August 24, 2015. Mr. Betty Jean Portwood age 83 of Dawson, AL died Monday, August 24, 2015 at Collinsville Health Care. Funeral services will be held Thursday, August 27, 2015 at 2pm from Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Thomas Wallace officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Tabor Cemetery with Rainsville Funeral Home, Inc. directing, www.rainsvillefuneralhome.com.

Visitation will be Thursday, August 27th from 11am-2pm. Survivors: Husband: J.B. Portwood of Dawson, AL; 1 Son: John L. Portwood and wife Melba J. of Dawson, AL; 1 Daughter: Regina Brown and husband Ray of Dawson, AL; 3 Brothers: E.D. Nelson of Dawson, AL; Lavon Nelson of Fyffe, AL; Robbie Nelson of Crossville, AL; 4 Sisters: Virginia Marks of Rainsville, AL; Ogara Wallace of Crossville, AL; Deloise Nelson of Rainsville, AL; Shelia Armstrong of Hixson, TN. Visitation Rainsville Funeral Home, Inc. Thursday, August 27th from 11am-2pm. Services Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel Thursday, August 27, 2015 at 2pm. Interment Mount Tabor Cemetery Following Service.

CRIME Date: 08/21/2015

Shots Fired in Grove Oak Community Chief Deputy Michael Edmondson reports that at about 4:00 am this morning the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office received a call about shots being fired and bullets hitting a residence on County Road 550. When deputies arrived at the residence it was dark and more shots were being fired from a nearby residence. At which time the deputies got the homeowners to safety and took cover themselves. The shooting lasted for about 30 more minutes. Deputies called in the DeKalb County SRT Team and Fort Payne City Police to come to assist. Once the shots ceased gas was shot into the residence, after a brief standoff Gregory Mark Bagwell, 53 of Grove Oak was arrested and charged with Reckless Endangerment.

Sheriff Harris states “This was a dangerous situation and thanks to the deputies, SRT Team, Fort Payne Police Department, State Fire Marshal, Geraldine Police Department, Fyffe Police Department, DeKalb County Drug Task Force, DeKalb Ambulance Service, Grove Oak Fire Department and Air Evac we were able to get Bagwell in custody without incident. This is another example of how agencies working together can make a difference in the safety in DeKalb County.”

Date: 08/21/2015

Burglary in the Kilpatrick Community Chief Deputy Michael Edmondson reports that on August 18th DeKalb County Sheriff’s Deputies had received a call from concerned citizens about a suspicious truck and trailer at a residence County Road 381. When deputies and Crossville Police Department arrived at the residence they noticed Robert Clay Jr., 36 of Albertville and Shannon Joe Green, 54 of Albertville loading stuff on the trailer. Deputies and Officers recovered numerous items that was taken from the barn and house on the property. Clay was arrested and charged with two counts of Burglary 3rd degree. Green was found with drug paraphernalia on his person. At which time the DeKalb County Drug Task Force was called. Green was arrested and charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Sheriff Harris states “These arrest were made possible thanks to the concerned citizens of this community. The Deputies, Officers and Investigators did a great job on this case.”