The Southern Torch, Vol. 1, No. 24

THE SOUTHERN TORCH / FRIDAY NOVEMBER 6, 2015 / VOL. 1, NO. 24 / $1.00

COMMUNITY

BUSINESS

POLITICS

“NUNSENSE” SET TO OPEN TONIGHT

TREAT OF THE WEEK: YO-MOE & DANALI’S DELI

ALABAMA’S UNINSURED FACE INCREASED FINES IN 2015

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Alabama prepares for 2016 Primary

Election

2016

The gloves are coming off

City announces retirement of Rainsville Police Chief

By Joe Morgan joseph@southerntorch.com

RAINSVILLE, Ala. — The City of Rainsville announced Monday night at their

regularly scheduled city council meeting that Rainsville Police Chief Charles Centers will be stepping down from his position as head of the city’s

police force effective Feb. 2, 2016.

“Chief Centers has turned in a retirement request and he will be retiring on Feb. 2, 2016,” Rainsville City Councilman Joey Graham said. “In the near future we will be posting the new job for the police chief and taking internal applicants. At this time we’re going to hold off and not post it this week. We will be posting that in the near future. We wish the best of Chief Centers and hope that he recovers and has a happy retirement.”

Centers was unavailable for comment at press time.

The city has not set a firm date to begin the process of finding a replacement for Centers. After an official date is set to begin accepting applications for the position, Rainsville will post an internal job posting for a period of seven days to give existing officers an opportunity to apply for the position. At the end of that seven days, the position will then be opened to accept CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

FAN OF THE WEEK! The Southern Torch Fan of the Week is Ryder Griggs. Ryder is ten years old and is in the fifth grade at Fort Payne Middle School. He loves to read and is a green belt in Takwondo. He also is actively involved in the Fort Payne Robotics. Ryder would like to wish the Fort Payne Wildcats best of luck in their playoff game against Briarwood Christian. Submit your photos to Southern Torch and you could be the next Southern Torch Fan of the Week!

Congratulations, Ryder Griggs CONNECT WITH US

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

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By Tyler Pruett tyler@southerntorch.com

Today, Friday, Nov. 6 is the last day for candidates to qualify for the 2016 primaries with the Democratic Party or the Republican Party in Alabama.

In Alabama, five statewide offices, a U.S. Senate seat and all seven of Alabama’s seats in the U.S. House of Representatives are up for grabs in 2016.

Incumbents are seeing little resistance so far, however.

As of press time, U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby, (R-Tuscaloosa), who will be entering his sixth term in the U.S. Senate does not have a challenger CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 THIS WEEK IN COMMUNITY

Plenty to do in DeKalb on Halloween night Hope Puppets of Rainsville First Baptist Church will be performing a Christian based spin-off of “Frozen” …

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THIS WEEK IN FAITH

A Moment with Megan: What are you falling for?

Hi, friends, I hope you are having a great week thus far. Can I share an embarrassing moment with you?

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OPINION / EDITORIAL

Opinion: Does DeKalb County need Constables?

On Tuesday, DeKalb County voters of District 1 will head to the polls to conclude the special election to fill a vacancy left when the former constable, Kneely Pack, resigned due to being arrested on fraud charges.

Grant Johnson, District 4 also resigned due to moving out of his elected district, leaving a second vacancy…

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THIS WEEK IN SPORTS

Fyffe takes care of business Everyone was excited it was the Fyffe vs Plainview game…

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PRESORTED STANDARD MAIL U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

PERMIT NO. 60 RAINSVILLE, AL

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Friday–November 6, 2015

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Publisher, Joseph M. Morgan Layout editor, Dwayne Adams

Fort Payne, Sylvania youth football teams make Super Bowl

By Jsseph M. Morgan joseph@southerntorch.com

DEKALB COUNTY, Ala. -- Three DeKalb youth football teams— one team from Fort Payne

and two teams from Sylvania— will be Superbowl Bound this weekend. Fort Payne’s

A-team black will be competing in the Division A championship against Gadsden City this

Saturday Nov. 7 at 7:45 p.m. at McCord Field in Albertville.

Photo by Heather Lee of In His Image Photography Starting at Top Left to Right Football Team pictured Caleb Stiefel, Ashton Brown, Bayne Barrontine, Eli Frasier, Sawyer Burt, Heisman Brown, Alex Fielding, Devin Wells, Jaylon Fields, Connor Cash, Aiden Smith, Parker, Gullage, Alex Akins, Jake Barnes, Clay Jackson, Kaden Reynoso, Braxton Goza and Lane Clark. Cheerleaders Left to Right, Raven Hirst Avery Spillman, Austin Walker, Callie Noogin, Cora Baker, Kristy Coker, Olivia Lee, DaNali Richardson and Jessica Simpson.

Two youth football teams from Sylvania—

the 1st-2nd Grade team and the 3rd-4th Grade teams advanced to the Super Bowl to compete for their league championships. The championship games will be played Nov. 7 at Dade County School, Trenton GA.The Sylvania 1st-2nd Grade team will play at 1 p.m. against Section and the 3rd-4th Grade team will play at 3 p.m. against Dade County.

1st/2nd grade boys: Travis Owens, Stanton Doeg, Dakota Barnard, Cade wheeler, Dominick Peek, carter blalock, braiden kittle, Holden bludsworth, Ethan manning, Weston stone, Braelynn Ferguson, mattheus dukes, Noah McKeehan, Luca Buttram, jaken lambert, Caden furgerson, jake turner, Clay graham, Cody Goins Coaches: Terry dukes, Jarrod Buttram (head coach), Craig blalock, Matthew gant, josh turner.

Cheerleaders: Ella Bell, Kaitlyn Smith, Aleena Corbin, Jessie Sargent, Brynlee Corbin, Emma Garrard, Sadie Bell, Emma Rae Sensor, Ashdon Mills and Addison Schultz

3rd/4th grade boys–Front row: Joshua Henderson, Tyson Gutierrez, Justus bell, Jacob Atchley, Jonah gurley, Kelby graham, Roman McKeehan, Lucas Putnam, Colby Buttram Back row: will gant, Lucas Frazier, griffin turner, aspen Cooley, tanner Haynes, Logan Frazier, Jacob shepherd, Drenon Townsel, Jax smith, zack Anderson, Ashton Cooley, Seth cline Coaches: Patrick Cooley, Tracy gant, Toby McKeehan, Luke smith (head coach), Tj Haynes

Retirement of Rainsville Police Chief CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 applications from the public.

Also at Monday night’s meeting the council discussed finalizing a contract for a city renovation project. Despite lengthy

discussion about the matter and comments critical of the project timeline, ultimately none of the council members stepped up to make the motion that would allow a vote on whether or not to

accept the contract.

Southern Torch will continue to update this story as more information is available.

Alabama prepares for 2016 Primary CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 from either party.

Four of six GOP incumbents in the U.S. House will run unopposed —DeKalb’s own 4th District Rep. Robert Aderholt, 1st District Rep. Bradley Byrne, 5th District Rep. Mo Brooks and freshman Rep. Gary Palmer who represents Alabama’s 6th District.

In Alabama’s 3rd Congressional District, U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers will face Larry DiChiara of Auburn. U.S. Rep. Martha Roby from Alabama’s 2nd District, has two Republican challengers – Becky

Gerritson of Wetumpka and Bob Rogers of Montgomery. U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell of Birmingham, Alabama’s only Democrat member of Congress, does not strict.

Only 3 of the 9 seats on the Alabama Supreme Court are on the ballot in March, two of which —Justice Michael Bolin in Place 1 and Justice Kelli Wise in Place 2—will run unopposed. Justice Tom Parker has a Republican challenger in Place 3 – Pelham attorney Donna J. Beaulieu.

Currently all 9 seats on the Alabama Supreme Court are held by

Republicans and so far no Democratic candidates have emerged to qualify for any of the seats. In the Alabama Public Service Commission, President Twinkle Andress Cavanaugh, also a Republican, has no opposition in either party.

The Alabama Board of Education has four seats on the ballot in 2016.

Three of the four are Republican incumbents with primary challengers but no opponent in the general election.

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Friday–November 6, 2015

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

COMMUNITY

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

Cornerstone Academy FUELbots: The Homeschool Robotics Team

Saturday, Nov. 7, at the Northeast Alabama Agri-Business Center for the Northeast Alabama regional competition.

The winners of the competition will proceed to the national competition in Auburn.

The competing teams are only given six weeks to prepare for “game day.”

On “game day,” the robots will compete with each other to perform specific task described at the beginning of the six week period.

The BEST Robotics Competition is not solely about the robot as one would believe. The robot’s performance only accounts for 15 percent of the entire competition.

The remaining parts of the competition include an engineering notebook, a marketing presentation, a team interview, a team presentation booth, and most importantly team spirit. “This

competition is not just about the robot, it’s about the students learning how to build a business, marketing the business, functioning as a team, and running a business in general. It’s just disguised in a robotics competition,” said team sponsor, Hannah Cowart.

“The students are responsible for fundraising, communication, marketing, and building the actual robot. The biggest difference in our team is there is usually not a robotics mentor around most of the time and the students are building the robot all by themselves,” said Cowart.

Noah Austin, a member of the FUELbots team said, “I’ve learned a lot from the competition like group cooperation and communication skills, software programming, cooperate organization, and goal planning to name a few.”

Team members include Thomas Austin.

Kyle Fortner, Kennon Fortner, Konnor Fortner, Isabella Shelly, Abigail Mann, Gavin Cowart, Andrew Shelly, Ben Austin, JT Shelly, and Noah Austin.

BEST stands for Boosting Engineering, Science, and Technology.

At Cornerstone Christian Academy, the robotics team has attempted to implement promoting these important fields to both students and parents. Cornerstone is participating in its second year competing at the BEST Robotics competition. This year, game day will take place at the Agribusiness Center located in Rainsville. The competition begins early at 8:00 am with sixteen teams competing in preliminary rounds for a chance to participate in the Championship rounds later in the day. Other local teams competing against Cornerstone in the Northeast Alabama Hub of BEST Robotics include: DeKalb County Technology Center, Fort Payne High School, Plainview High School, and many others.

Last year, in its rookie year, Cornerstone’s robot advanced all the way to the final round.

The team performed outstandingly in the seeding rounds and

quickly climbed the point system. By the end of the day, Cornerstone came out third place of the entire competition.

The 2015 BEST Robotics theme is “Pay Dirt”. The objective of the game is to collect the core samples of various representative minerals.

These items are worth varying amounts of points. Also, a team can make “repairs” to the course to earn additional points. Because BEST Robotics teaches how to accurately use a business model, each team must be familiar with the economics of mining. If a material is over-mined or under-mined, the team may lose points. Another way to win the competition is to win the BEST Award. This award will be given to the school who has best demonstrated its use of the engineering process, sportsmanship, teamwork, creativity, enthusiasm, and school and community involvement.

Cornerstone is excited to compete another year in the BEST Robotics competition. Come cheer on Cornerstone as they compete this Saturday, November 7th. We appreciate your support!

Northeast Alabama Community College is well-known for its theatre and the produc-

tions directed by Mark Webb. Tonight is opening night for the newest production “Nunsense.”

The award-winning production originally written by Dan Goggins will be running for 6 nights: Nov. 6-8 and again Nov. 13-15. Tickets will be on sale at the event for $5.

“Nunsense begins when the Little Sisters of Hoboken discover that their cook, Sister Julia, Child of God, has accidentally poisoned 52 of the sisters, and they are in dire need of funds for the burials. The sisters decide that the best way to raise the

money is to put on a variety show, so they take over the school auditorium, which is currently set up for the eighth grade production of “Grease,” actress Allison Dixon said.

One thing that will be different about this production is that the cast is much smaller. The nuns in the play will be portrayed by students Allison Dixon, Katie Strickland, Emilee Harris, Kayleigh Smith, and Savannah Owens. “It’s a lot easier in my opinion.

With a smaller cast you’re able to have a tight knit connection. You don’t have to worry about

coordinating huge groups of people either.

It’s just easier to add more detail to a show and a character when there’s a small number of cast member,” Dixon said.

“The chemistry of the cast and crew is also a lot different in this production than in past ones.

We’re always having fun and encouraging each other and giving each other new ideas to develop our characters and the production as a well.” Be sure to come support the Northeast Alabama theatre program.

By Tyler Pruett tyler@southerntorch.com

By Sam Hughes sam@southerntorch.com

RAINSVILLE, Ala.— Gavin Cowart is a homeschool student who is participating in the Boosting Engineering Science And Technology (BEST) Robotics Competition for the first time. Gavin started a robotics team with the help of his friends, as well as the guidance and support of his team sponsor (and mother) Hannah Cowart.

Their team, FUELbots, is an extension of their homeschool co-op, Families United for Enrichment and Learning(FUEL).

FUELbots is comprised of eleven students ranging in ages from 10 to 16. The FUELbots will compete against 16 other teams from private, public, and home-schools in Marshall, Jackson, and DeKalb counties on

“Nunsense” set to open tonight

By Karah Wilson karah@southerntorch.com

RAINSVILLE, Ala.—

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Friday–November 6, 2015

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

COMMUNITY

Hope Puppets to 2015 Boo Bash Costume perform “Chozen” Winners

By Karah Wilson karah@southerntorch.com

RAINSVILLE, Ala.— Hope Puppets of Rainsville First Baptist Church will be performing a Christian based spin-off of “Frozen” called “Chozen” starting Sun. at 3:30 p.m. and again at 6:00 p.m. then continuing on Nov. 9 at 6:00 p.m., Nov. 11 at 6:00 p.m., Nov. 13 at 6:00 p.m. and the final productions on Nov. 15 at 3:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.

Admission is free for all.

Hope Puppets began 15 years ago when the music minister of Rainsville First Baptist asked a group of church members to put on a Christmas performance. The church members had experience with puppets and included Greg Wigley, who is now the coordinator of Hope

Puppets. “Over the years we have found that puppets speak a universal language that everyone knows, whether young or old,” Wigley said. “We want you to smile during our performances and forget about all of your problems.” Hope Puppets, which began as one single group, is now divided into three separate ones: an adult group, a junior group, and a drama team named 4Given. There will be 27 adult members, 28 junior members, and 16 drama team members participating with the upcoming production.

The idea for “Chozen” came from “Frozen” because it is, without a doubt, the most popular Disney movie out right now. “We try to pick out stuff that’s relevant and whatever is ‘in’ and make it Christian. We want to share the gospel through puppets.”

Olaf, the snowman in “Frozen”, will be the narrator throughout the production.

“There will be narrations to transition the songs. What is really 30 seconds of moving and shuffling feels like 10 minutes when there is

nothing happening,” Wigley said. “The narrations will be weaving through the Gospel.”

The characters will remain the same and some will have more than one actor or actress. “Anna has three different actresses. It’s for her age,” Wigley said. “We have traditional ‘Frozen’ costumes for the actors and actresses to wear.”

Performers include Amanda Taylor as Anna, Elizabeth Wooten as Elsa, Jeremy Taylor as Kristoff, Caleb Wigley as Sven, and Ben Coots as Olaf. The writer for the production was Stephanie McFall. The last production performed by Hope Puppets brought in around 3,500 people. “We look to see more for this production according to all the feedback we have received. If I had an estimate, it would be about 4,000 people,” Wigley said. “We see people get there half an hour early to get the best seats.

People generally think the best seats are front and center, but it’s really back and center because you can see all of the action.”

Rainsville annual Boo Bash

By Karah Wilson karah@southerntorch.com

RAINSVILLE, Ala.— Rainsville held its annual Boo Bash this past Sat. for Halloween at the Tom Bevill Enrichment Center from 4 P.M. until 6 P.M. Individuals and businesses were set up inside with games and activities for kids of all ages.

The City of Rainsville had a booth set up with a fishing game in which the children would catch a fish and win a prize.

Tammy Gregory, Rainsville’s Court Clerk, said that she suspected to have “over 600 kids” come through their game. “This year was

different because it was more successful. We had a bigger turnout, more games, and we even added a haunted room that the children could walk through,” Gregory said. This wasn’t Gregory’s first year participating in the Boo Bash. “Last year I worked the costume contest.”

Boo Bash is different than some of the Halloween events because it’s a community affair that is hosted in doors away from the rain. “I think that we will grow as the years go on,” Gregory said. “We hope to combine with all of the churches and make it a community wide event which will make it easier

Announced!

Southern Torch announced today the winners of the 2015 Rainsville Boo Bash costume contest that was held on Halloween night.

More than 125 Trick-orTreaters took part in the contest. Thank you to all

who took part and congratulations to our winners!

1st Place: Samuel Wright 2nd Place: Eli Brown 3rd Place: Kenleigh Bell

Samuel Wright, age 8, won First Place at the 2015 Boo Bash!

Eli Brown, age 7, won Second Place at the 2015 Boo Bash

on the parents.”

Felicia Mitchell Text: Southern Torch hosted the costume contest this year with over 125 nonstop entries.

Even though all of the costumes were fun and creative, there could only be three winners. This year’s grand prize winner is 8 year old Samuel Wright, who was dressed as a Storm Trooper from Star Wars; second place is 7 year old Eli Brown, who was dressed as a hobo with a sign that said “will work for candy”; and third place is 14 month old Kenleigh Bell, who was dressed as an owl.

Congratulations to the 2015 winners!

Kenleigh Bell, 14 months, won Third Place at the 2015 Boo Bash

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Friday–November 6, 2015

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FAITH Hunting for a Good Reception

By Dr. John E. Morgan Pastor–Collinsville Baptist Church

My future father-inlaw was acting strange. I had no idea at the time that he was my future father-in-law. I just knew that he was acting strange. Weird.

Gloria had moved in kind of next door to me when I was in the eighth grade and she was in the seventh. Her house was around the corner from mine. Her back yard ran into the side of my back yard. I could see her driveway and the side of

her house from my front yard.

Her family was very nice. Baptists. Regular church goers. She had a little sister and a littler brother. My little sister and her little sister got along well as they plotted to get Gloria and me together. We ignored them until they gave up.

Her father was a kind, sensitive, loving man. He taught a lot about what it means to be a Christian and a man..

But after they had lived there a while I began to notice some-

thing odd. I noticed that he would sit in the car in the driveway for long periods. Just sitting there. Staring straight ahead.

What could this mean? Was he just hunting a little peace away from the three females and baby boy in his house? Was he a secret Soviet spy? What was he doing just sitting in a car in his driveway?

It would be a long time before I got the answer. He loved sports (one of the things we had in common). He was an Ole Miss graduate. And in that time of almost no games on TV, the only hope for a fan was to listen on the radio. And none of the radio stations in Nashville carried Mississippi games, except occasionally when they were on the Saturday night radio game of the week. (I remember as a child listening to Billy Cannon run the punt back for LSU that beat Ole Miss 7-3.)

But Mr. Roberts had figured out that if he sat in the right spot in the driveway the car radio could pick up a Memphis station that carried Ole

Miss games. And so I would see him sitting outside in the cold (he seldom ran the heater – gasoline cost a quarter a gallon and who could afford that?). He sat there listening to the mother ship send the Rebels into his driveway.

He was a person who felt great emotions. I feel sure there were times he must have about broken the steering wheel during tense times in the game.

He loved his alma mater.

I listened to a lot of games on the radio. But not by sitting in the cold in the driveway. My team, Tennessee, came in just fine on my little transistor radio. Would you have done it? Would you have sat there in the cold? I can assure you that his daughter would not have.

How about if you knew that God was going to be on the radio. Would you listen then? That was the plot of a movie called The Next Voice You Hear.

If you knew that God was going to be on the radio at 8:00 tonight would you listen? In the movie most everybody does for a week. I think most of us still would. Of course,

a lot of us would have to go out to our cars because we don’t use radios any more. Who wouldn’t want to hear God? And yet we ignore His voice every day. In the Bible (you do say that it is God’s Word, don’t you?).

In times of prayer. In Bible studies, Sunday School, etc. In the voices of other Christians. In the astoundingly beautiful mountains of northeast Alabama. In a still, small voice when we most need it. The reception is really good, if you are listening.

And sometimes we need to get out to our driveway or somewhere far away to listen for awhile. ET phone home.

For Christians, this world is not our home. We need to get away from the world at times to listen to Him. Walter Roberts was a great Christian man. He went to be the Lord many years ago. He no longer needs a radio to hear God. I am not sure about Ole Miss games.

A Moment with Megan: What Are You Falling For?

By Megan Blansit

Founder 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

Hi, friends, I hope you are having a great week thus far. Can I share an embarrassing moment with you? Great, but don’t tell anyone! When I was in the 5th or 6th grade I had an adolescent’s worst nightmare come to life. I had a tragic slip in the lunchroom… in front of what felt like the entire school. I had just paid for my food and was walking with my food tray to the class’ assigned table and then BOOM! I slipped on a carrot and then oddly enough slipped on a green bean when I took another step (as if the carrot-slide wasn’t bad

enough.) I was humiliated and everyone was laughing. My friends to this day still remember this and laugh uncontrollably. Maybe you haven’t had this kind of humiliating experience in front of your peers, but I would dare to say you have had some type of embarrassment in the course of your lifetime.

Maybe you’ve fallen into a whole or fell at the skating rink, etc.

Not only can we (literally) fall physically, but we can fall for things in our mind. Friends, our mind is a battlefield and sometimes it is necessary to cast down negativity; you don’t have to believe everything that pops into your head. I’ll share another secret with you, Satan knows your weak spots. This means he knows where he can get you rattled or upset.

Maybe he has attacked you with insecurity, “You’ll never amount to anything”… “Nobody loves you” … “You aren’t as pretty as your friend”.. etc etc. Friend, I’m hear to tell you that if you are a child of the King, you have the power to rebuke the devil and speak back to his lies. For example, the Bible says you have a hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11.) The Bible says you are

beautifully and wonderfully made (Psalms 139:14.) The Bible says Jesus’ love is steadfast towards us (Psalms 86:15.)

Friend, here is another secret, Satan likes to place his thoughts into your head and make them first person. Therefore, maybe you’ve heard, “I am ugly” for so long in your head that you believe that thought. That’s not your thought, friend. That is Satan speaking lies and making it first person.

The Bible says Satan comes to steal, kill, and destroy.; however, we don’t have to let him! I don’t know about you, but I get tired of the Devil stealing my security, joy, etc. It’s in those moments that I have to consciously focus on God’s Word and speak the truth over myself.

The awesome thing is that Christ is so full of love and compassion for His children. He will

never condemn us or speak negative of us. It’s time we get fed up with Satan’s lies and speak the opposite of what he is saying to us. We can do this by digging into God’s Word and finding the truth about who we are.

Christ’s thoughts are ALWAYS good towards us. Besides, God doesn’t make junk; you are Gods beautiful creation and He takes such pleasure in you.

Friend, I’m not saying this will be an easy process. It will take time to fight the lies you’ve been believing. I encourage you to write down the lies you’ve been believing over yourself and the write the opposite of that thought (from the Bible) on a sticky note. Then, place the sticky note on your bathroom mirror or a place where the note will be seen frequently.

Eventually, you will believe those positive truths over the lies!

I can’t imagine how much better our day would be if we focused on the truth (God’s Word) and not the lies Satan is continually feeding our mind. I challenge you to evaluate the thoughts you are believing about yourself this week. Are they God’s thought or are they Satan’s? Remember, you don’t always have to believe what you hear.

My favorite song this week is “Blameless” by Dara MaClean. The lyrics are perfect for this article and read: Blameless, you call me holy. I am forgiven, you call me righteous, I am free.

Spotless, you call me worthy. I am your child, you call me chosen, I am yours.— Friend, if you’re needing positive things to speak over yourself, I just helped you out and named a few. I want to see you walk in victory today, and not defeat.

So… ready, set.. GO!

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Friday–November 6, 2015

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

BUSINESS Yo-Moe & Danali’s Deli Club sandwich sub Rainsville, AL EXCELLENT

VERY GOOD

This week the Southern Torch chose Yo-Moe/Danali’s Deli in Rainsville to review, and this foodie is grateful for the opportunity! The restaurant combines two amazing eateries in one location to provide a large selection under one roof. The spaciousness of the interior and the modern design make the modest storefront seem almost unassuming. On the non-yogurt side of things, Danali’s has a wide selection of Italian/American cuisine. Diners may choose from a pizza with around 10 different toppings, a large variety of sub sandwiches, pasta sides, salads, soups, and even southern favorites like chicken and dumplins. We chose to sample a 7” sausage and pepperoni pizza, Club sandwich sub, and an order of cheese-smothered Doritos. We chose to go simple on the pizza toppings in order to taste the quality of the ingredients, which they did not disappoint. The sauce stood out the most to me, as it taste freshly made. The sandwich also did not disappoint. The club, served steamed, features turkey, ham, roast beef, and American cheese. We opted for lettuce, tomato, pickles, mustard, and black pepper for our toppings on this six inch masterpiece. Also served was a large basket of Doritos Nachos smothered with Pepper Jack cheese. After this smorgasbord it was necessary to take a break before moving on to the other half of this experience, Yo-Moe! The desert side features 12 different flavors of yogurt, each designated with its own nifty LED screen and over 30 different toppings ranging from gummy worms to fresh strawberries. The strawberry shortcake flavor was sampled for dessert, topped with fresh strawberries and whipped cream. Overall, Danali’s/Yo-moe was excellent, with a wide variety of food at a great value.

EXCELLENT ADDRESS:

124 McCurdy Ave S., Rainsville, AL 35986

CONTACT: Tel. (256) 717-4080

MEDIOCRE

MODERATE

WEAK

$5.49

CHAMBER CHATTER November 4, 2015 Carol Beddingfield, Executive Director The Fort Payne Chamber is partnering with the Northeast Alabama Marine Corps League, Detachment 1404, to bring the second annual Veterans Day Parade to downtown Fort Payne.

According to Bob Harrell, Commandant of Detachment 1404, “The parade is made up of not only veterans and active duty military, but it is filled with citizens who are marching or driving the route to show their appreciation for our American veterans.”

Mayor Larry Chesser asked the Detachment 1404 last year to organize the parade.

In the fall of 2014 the Fort Payne City Council adopted a resolution to sponsor the parade and honored the Detachment 1404 with a proclamation of mayoral appreciation to the Marines.

This year’s parade will include the US Army material Command Band from Huntsville. The grand marshal will be decorated veteran USMC Colonel Mark King of Ider.

To add to the excitement of the parade, the giveaway of the 2005 Ford Escape SUV will also be held. The drawing will be at 5 PM. The vehicle will be on display across from the City Park all day prior to the drawing.

Tickets are $10.00 each and are on sale at Fort Payne City Hall, the Chamber or by calling 256-996-0308 or 256-996-5714. All proceeds go to the Patriots Memorial Park fund.

Parade applications are available at the Chamber office. The entry fee is being waived by the city. However, donations to the Patriots Park are encouraged.

Line up is at 4 PM at the VFW fairgrounds. The parade begins at 5 PM. Deadline to register is November 6th. No animals are allowed in the parade with the exception of the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Posse.

For more information contact the Chamber at 256-845-2741 or Commandant Bob Harrell at 704-575-2114.

RAINSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE November 5, 2015 Tim Eberhart, Executive Director The Rainsville Holiday Open House on November 13-14 is for shoppers who love to shop. Two weeks before Black Friday, over 20 of our unique, specialty retailers are offering those shoppers a one-of-a-kind shopping experience.

Some of the stores will be decked out in holiday-themed decor. Some will have seasonal merchandise displays. Some will have Christmas music playing. Some will offer the shoppers who love to shop refreshments such as cookies and hot cider.

Some will have door prize drawings. Some will have discounted prices. Some will do all of the above and more.

It would be difficult to visit each and every participating Rainsville Holiday Open House store. I’m sure most shoppers who really loves to shop could find a way.

But most people will need to map out a plan in order to make the most of the city-wide event. Social media will be helpful for those who want to plan ahead.

Almost all of the participating stores have Facebook pages where shoppers will be able to find out what special activities and offers individual stores are providing.

For help mapping out your plan, and for links to the stores’ Facebook pages, visit the Rainsville Holiday Open House page at www.rainsville.info.

Each winter since 1990, the Rainsville Chamber has honored one outstanding citizen as it’s Rainsville Person of the Year. We are now accepting nominations for the next Person of the Year award. It will be presented at the Chamber’s annual meeting in January.

To make a nomination, submit a letter to the Rainsville Chamber; PO Box 396, Rainsville, AL 35986, drop it off at the Chamber office or email it as an attachment to chamber@farmerstel.com. The deadline is Monday, December 7.

It’s also the time of year when we must find some business people who want to help make ours a better chamber by serving on our board. Any willing business person from any member business is eligible.

Our directors make financial, policy and activity-related decisions, and plan and carry out our annual events. Each director typically serves on two committees such as the Administrative Professionals Day Luncheon committee, the golf tournament committee, or the Christmas parade committee.

If you are interested in serving on our board, please contact the Chamber office or one of the current directors ASAP.

7

Friday–November 6, 2015

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

CLASSIFIEDS For Sale

Owl Necklaces in assorted colors, blue & white, white, green and red $ 5.00 each.

Call Nancy at 256-273-1117.

For Sale...Scrubs good/ great condition size medium. Assorted, some sets and some individual tops and pants call Angie for more information at 256-630-2608 For Sale..2010 Wave Runner Cruiser 84.3 $9500.00. Call (256) 605-4427

Yamaha FX HO hours.

Marla at

Services

RAIN TECH GUTTERS Installs seamless gutters 5 or 6 inch in any color, call 256-899-2620 for more info or estimates.

ROBERT BU L LO C K Handyman Services No Job to Big or Small 256-601-0281 PLANTATION SHUTTERS custom sizes installation available call Jon at 256-638-5270 REFINISHING Antiques Furniture call for a free estimate Jamey at 256-638-2467

Homes for Sale

HOUSE FOR SALE 3 BR and

2 Bath. Recently renovated home on 4 acres conveniently located near Rainsville amenities. $139,000 Call Shari @ Kim H o r to n Re a l t y at 256-638-5281.

NEW HOUSE FOR SALE at 76 Keef Avenue Rainsville, AL. 2 Bedroom, 2 bath. $99,500 Call 256-899-6418

Mobile Homes for Sale

8.42 acres just south of Henegar over 600 ft. paved road frontage, with 2000, 16x76 Palm Harbor mobile home, fully furnished. Call 770-941-6546, 404-2771617, or 256-638-2006

Houses for Rent

House for rent in Henagar: No pets, $600/month, $600 deposit. Call 303-358-8127.

Mobile homes for Rent

2 BR, 2 BA $400/month, $400 deposit. Also, 3 BR 2BA, $425/month, $425 deposit. Located in Powell.

Both properties include lawn care and trash. No

pets. Call 256-228-8555.

Miscellaneous 9-LIVES- Cigar Box Guitars, hand crafted by Steve We b s te r call 256-630-9384 Celebrate Recovery South.

Dealing with addiction?

Join us for the for our new Celebrate Recovery program on Tuesday, November 3, 2015 from 6:30pm - 8:30pm at the Geraldine Methodist Church, 13394, AL Hwy 227, Geraldine, AL 35974.

Contact Paul Vick: 256-401-3474.

Pets FREE kittens and cats.

They currently live outside but would be great indoor lap cats. call Angie at 256-630-2608

Lots for Sale LOTS FOR SALE- Kilgore Sub-division Rainsville, AL. Owner Financing Available call Jamey at 256-638-2467

Wanted to Buy Wanting to buy OLD FASHION CHURN, Please call Fran at 256-899-2382

OBITUARIES Mrs. Clara Yates Culbert

age 80 of Geraldine passed away Tuesday, Oct. 27, 2014 in Marshall Medical Center South. Funeral is set for 11AM on Friday, October 30, 2015 from the W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with Bro Roger Graham and Bro Dennis Mitchell officiating, burial to follow in Mt Zion Cemetery.

Visitation will take place on Thursday, October 29, 2015 from 4-8PM from the W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel.

Survivors: HusbandMelvin Culbert; DaughterMary (Marlan) Shirey; Step Daughter- Vickie Hice; Son- James (Renee) Yates; Step Sons- Kenny, Dan And Jeff Culbert; Grandchildren- Jason Yates, Jennifer Guy, Phillip Shirey, David Weston, Michael Weston, Paula Reese, and Cindy Baker; 11 Great Grandchildren; 7 Great Great Grandchildren

Mr. John D Downs

age 74 of Rainsville, AL passed away on Thursday, October 29, 2015. Funeral Services are set for Sunday, Nov 1, 2015 at 3PM from the W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel, burial will follow in Kirk Memory Garden.

Visitation will be on Sunday as well from 11-3PM from the W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel. Mr. Downs

is an Army Veteran.

SURVIVORS: DaughterKaren Campbell; SonsJohn D Downs II and Robbie Downs; Sister- Ruthie Shields; Brother- Bill Downs; 13 Grandchildren *Mrs. Lisa Diane White Guinn age 48 of Dawson, AL passed away on Thursday, Oct 29, 2015.

Funeral Services will be held on Sunday, Nov. 1, 2015 at 11AM from Pilgrim Rest Church in Geraldine, Dr. Roger White, Bro. Billy Floyd and Bro. Matt Smith will officiate, burial will follow in Green’s Chapel Cemetery. Visitation will take place on Friday, October 30, 2015 from 5:30 -8PM from W.T Wilson Funeral Chapel and on Saturday, Oct 31, 2015 from 2PM-8PM from the Pilgrim Rest Church in Geraldine.

Survivors: HusbandJimmy LaDon Guinn; Daughter- Samantha Guinn; Son- Myles Guinn; Sister- Marilyn (the late Donnie) Douglas; BrotherDr. Roger (Katherine) White

Mrs. Calla Sue Haney

age 87 of Ft Payne, AL passed away on Oct 29, 2015. Funeral Services are set for Saturday, October 31, 2015 at 2PM from the W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel, burial to follow at Head Spring’s Cemetery.

Visitation will be held on Friday, October 30, 2015

from 5-8PM from the W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel.

Yo u n g; g re a t- g ra n daughter, Kiera Mashburn.

SURVIVORS: Sons- Jack (Mary Ann) Haney, Max Haney and Garry Haney; Brother- Eldridge Gene Rose; 13 Grandchildren, 9 Great Grandchildren and 1 Great Great Grandchild

Mrs. Madge Loftin Hope

Preceded in death by: Husband- Vernon Nelson Haney: Parents- Riley Whitley, Ethel Lee (Luther) Rose: Son- Jerry Haney

Mr. Jimmy Richard Mashburn

age 59, of Pisgah passed away Friday, October 30, 2015.

Funeral services are set for 1pm Tuesday, November 3, 2015 from the W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel. Burial will be in Friendship Cemetery in Pisgah. The family will receive friends from 9am until 1pm Tuesday at the Funeral home.

He is survived by his wife, Janice Mashburn; son, Charles (Sissy) Mashburn; step-daughters, Vanessa (Tim) Ogden, Amanda ( Wesley) Young, Lora Mashburn, and Tina Mashburn; brother, J.P. Mashburn; grandchildren, Brice Mashburn, Kayla Mashburn, Harley Bailey, Kresley Mashburn, Keelie Mashburn, Scott Hudgins, Megan Young, Aaron Young, Kyle Young, Tailor Medlock, Jo n a t h a n Hudgins, and Leandra

age 89, of Geraldine passed away on Friday, October 30, 2015. Funeral services are set for 1pm Monday, November 2, 2015from the W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with Bro. Billy Floyd officiating. Burial will be in Geraldine Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5 until 8pm Sunday at the funeral home.

She is survived by her daughters, Karen Hope (Randy) Mathews, and Kathy Holliday; son, Arnold (Brenda) Hope; daughter-in-laws, Debbie LeSueur and Mary Hope; sisters, Gwendolyn Loftin Richey and Floelle Loftin (Max) Burke; honorary son, Ned McClendon; 6 grandchildren, 21 greatgrandchildren, and 1 greatgreat grandchild.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Orval Hope; sons, Archie and Rickey Hope; and grandson Daniel Fuller.

Mr. Tommie Jones

age 92 of Fyffe passed away on Monday, November 2, 2015. Funeral services are set for 2pm Wednesday, November 4, 2015 from the W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with Bro. Hoyt Gilbert officiating. Burial will be in

Mt. View Memory Gardens.

The family will receive friends from 4 until 8pm Tuesday at the funeral home. W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel is in charge.

Mr. James Felton

age 64 of Fort Payne, AL passed away Thursday, October 29, 2015 at DeKalb Regional Medical Center.

Funeral services will be held Monday, November 2, 2015 at 12noon from Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow in Wesley’s Chapel Cemetery with Rainsville Funeral Home, Inc. directing, www.rainsvillefuneralhome.com.

Visitation will be Sunday, November 1st from 5pm-8pm & Monday, November 2nd from 9am-12noon. Survivors Mother: Mary Sue Felton Reece of Fort Payne, AL 2 Sisters: Joyce Ann of Holbert, Indiana Debrah Sue of Holbert, Indiana 1 Brother: Russell Alan of Cedar Lake, Indiana 3 Daughters: Jennifer of North Carolina Amber of Hammond, Indiana Nicole of Crown Pt, Indiana 8 Grandchildren Preceded in Death Father: Aubrey Felton Visitation: Rainsville Funeral Home, Inc. Sunday, November 1st from 5pm-8pm M o n d ay, November 2nd from 9am-12noon.

8

Friday–November 6, 2015

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

OPINION / EDITORIAL

Does DeKalb County need constables?

By Tyler Pruett tyler@southerntorch.com

On Tuesday, Dekalb County voters of District 1 will head to the polls to conclude the special election to fill a vacancy left when the former constable, Kneely Pack, resigned due to being arrested on fraud charges. Grant Johnson, District 4 also resigned due to moving out of his elected district, leaving a second vacancy. This was decided during the primary elections due to there being no Democratic candidate participating in the race.

Billy J. Whitt emerged the winner by a large margin of a three way primary.

What’s ironic for Mr. Whitt and the winner of Tuesday’s election is that the position of constable will be up for election once again in 2016. This meaning that both must run for reelection after being in office for only a

year if a challenger arises, which seems likely given that there were so many contestants in the special election. It’s also interesting to note that while these positions are widely sought, they offer little to no compensation or benefits.

Duties of a constable include serving papers, making arrests, assisting law enforcement and the fire department, as well as escorting weddings and funerals to name a few. Constables must also carry a firearm, but are not provided with the same training as police officers. It’s notable that in the District 4 primary, one candidate, Michael Hardeman had recently been charged with 1st degree theft, a felony, which precludes him from owning a firearm, much less carrying one.

This is even more fascinating considering being armed is one of the few duties that a

constable is obligated to.

While the aforementioned responsibilities may sound beneficial to the public, most are optional and citizens who request these services must pay the constable a fee.

A special election with only one particular office being filled gives us a unique opportunity to gauge the public’s perceived benefit in having an elected constable. While turnout percentages in special elections during years without much political activity remain very low compared to normal elections years, voters will turn out in greater numbers to vote on a position that they feel has relevance to their daily lives. Turnout in the Districts 1 and 4 primaries were some of the lowest previously seen in Dekalb County. A mere 2.38% of registered voters turned out in

District 1 and an even lower 0.85% in District 4.

This means that out of a combined number of 19,769 voters in both districts, only 318 felt the need to vote. These elections also cost a large sum of money to Dekalb County taxpayers, with most effected not even living in the mentioned districts. The primary alone cost over $40,000.00 with costs rising to nearly $100,000.00 after the general election is concluded next week.

Before 2010, when vacancies were left due to resignations before the current term is complete, it was up to the Governor to appoint a new constable until a regular election can be held.

However, due to laws passed that year that only applies to Dekalb County, a special election must be held if there is a year or more left in the term.

This is how we could see

two years in a row with an election for constables, adding further to the price tag. Some elected officials in our area are working to change the law, but just as importantly, citizens should ask themselves if these costs and controversy are justified by the benefit to the public.

Decades ago, this position was crucial when police response times were light years behind current standards, and communications between dispatch and patrols were primitive. Also, due to much fewer law enforcement officers, the constable might be the only form of assistance someone might receive in a timely manner. With the costs of this election piling up, and the position seeming mostly irrelevant now, now is a good time to be asking this question.

Opinion: Where is proof in Thrash case Readers, The following letter was submitted to Southern Torch by Fyffe resident Conner Runyan.

Southern Torch is committed to providing balanced, fair coverage of this and all issues that affect DeKalb County and our readers. The 2014 termination of Coach Neal Thrash as Fyffe head basketball coach and the ongoing lawsuit that followed has been one of the most heated news topics in the region. Do you have an opinion about the Thrash case? If so, submit your letters to: editor@southerntorch. com or mail to LETTER TO EDITOR, PO BOX 614, Rainsville, AL 35986.

Dear Editor, Neal Thrash, like each of us, deserves to have his good name and character protected by those who employ him, at least until it is proven guilty of some misdeed. But that’s the rub. No one has proven yet he did anything wrong.

Hugh Taylor, in stating “For his sake” – meaning Thrash—“I’d rather not elaborate on the circumstances,” has thrown gasoline on the fire. The implication is that Coach Thrash really did something terrible – so bad it can’t be discussed.

So let’s talk about

what it is that this coach is alleged to have done.

Fyffe is a small town and like most close-knit communities, secrets are hard to keep. Most of us who have heard what Thrash did—oops, allegedly did-- are prone to react in one of two ways: “Is that all Taylor has?” or, like me, they content a principled administrator would have handled this is a better way.

All this superintendent had to do was talk directly with this coach, let him know a parent had complained about Thrash telling a player to “get his a__ in gear” and then, perhaps too aggressively, showing the young man how to block an opponent on the court. It is worth noting that all of this took place in front of the team, so we can put aside any speculation that this must be something “really, really terrible.”

Of course Coach Thrash did wrong, especially if you like politically correct whimy coaching. This is probably the first time, in the history of this school system, that a coach has used inappropriate language. If you know otherwise, then fair play here would demand you let the Superintendent know. We must, it seems,

rid this school system of all efforts to teach young boys what it takes to become young men.

The point is this: All that was needed is for Taylor to ask Thrash if he could do better in the future. Knowing Neal Thrash, he would have said “I can.” If Coach Thrash honors his word, issue over. If he doesn’t, then remove him. This is the first smear on Neal Thrash’s public record in over thirty years. He deserved a change to correct a minor mistake.

To me, the greater and far more dangerous unprincipled behavior is that of a Superintendent who denies someone the right to hear charges, confront his accusers and be allowed to defend himself. Hugh Taylor is behaving as if he has the right to be accuser, judge, and jury. This makes him a dangerous elected official.

I voted for Hugh Taylor; I will never consider doing so again until Neal Thrash has had a chance to be heard by the DeKalb County Board of Education. Let the five members of the Board do their job and act as the jury in this situation. If the members of the Board agree with Taylor, and vote to uphold the Superintendent, then I will accept there is more

here than what Fyffe Community is hearing.

My apology to Superintendent Taylor will also be warranted.

Unfortunately, Taylor’s mishandling of this situation is placing the Board and school system in a dangerous position. The courts do not move fast, but they tend to grind to fine dust those who trample on the rights of others. Before this is over, we will no longer be talking about thousands of dollars, but hundreds of thousands of dollars of mine and your money. When an elected official –Hugh Taylor in this instance--defames someone, denies them basic justice, and refuses to act in a reasonable manner, some Judge somewhere will take notice. The judge may not be in a position to order Taylor to do what is right –reinstate Coach Thrash—but he can, and will, see that Neal Thrash and his family are compensated for what Taylor says is “in the best interest of the kids.”

Personally, I have come to doubt if Taylor is doing this in the best interest of students; this is beginning to smell like someone had a hidden agenda in getting rid of Thrash.

And as for Taylor believing “you can’t put a

price tag” on what he says are his principled actions—actions that are distasteful to me-- my conclusion is simple.

Yes you can. Just wait and see how much this is about to cost this school system.

After writing this, I was reminded that Coach Thrash has had his day in court. The Alabama State Department of Education Legal Division has reviewed the evidence against Thrash, at the request of Hugh Taylor, and declined to take action. There was nothing there . This basically means they find no reason to remove Thrash from his coaching position. A number of courts, including the Alabama Supreme Court, have ruled against Taylor and essentially stated, in very legal terms, that they are somewhat confused by what this Superintendent has done.

For me, the question has always been why not let the “first responders” in this school system, the DeKalb County Board of Education, hear the evidence and make a decision. These are principled men; they will do what is right.

—Conner Runyan Fyffe, Ala

9

Friday–November 6, 2015

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

OPINION / EDITORIAL

Un-earmarking is a common sense solution in budgeting

By Cam Ward

Budget cuts. Tax increases. Agency restructurings.

We’ve heard and seen it all over the past several months since the Legislature first came to order in early March.

Since that time, there has been a regular session and two special sessions.

Throughout each, a lot of ideas were bounced off the wall – some stuck, some got shot down, and some still have legs.

State senators and representatives came forward with ways they thought the $200 million hole in the General Fund budget should be filled.

On one side you had those who believed government services should be unilaterally slashed without regard to the impact on our citizens. On the other side was Governor Bentley with a $541 million tax increase that also gave equal disregard to the impact on Alabamians.

Most legislators, including myself, believed a more responsible solution was a mix of targeted cuts to state agencies, small

revenue increases, and continued reform of high cost state services, like Medicaid and prisons.

This was the budget solution ultimately passed the Legislature and was signed by Governor Bentley in September.

Most state agencies were asked to make cuts ranging from 1% to 5%. A $0.25 increase in the cigarette tax was passed to fund the exploding cost of Medicaid, while reforms to our state prison system and Medicaid will save taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars over the coming years.

Yet, there are still grave fiscal challenges ahead for Alabama. The growing number of senior citizens in our state means the cost of the Medicaid program will continue to rise over the coming decade. Even now, Medicaid consumes 37% of the state’s General Fund budget, which funds all non-education expenses.

For Alabama to thrive in the coming decade, the Legislature must have flexibility to allocate state tax dollars in the most

efficient manner possible. Currently, 91% of Alabama’s tax dollars are earmarked for specific departments or programs. Alabama has the highest percentage of earmarked revenue in the nation, and the next highest is Michigan with only 63%. The national average is just 24%. That means Alabama has nearly four-times the earmarks of the average state.

Earmarking leads to apathy in state government since state agencies are assured specific sources of funding, and there isn’t incentive to show they are using current funds efficiently.

Bureaucrats can rest easy in the knowledge that a stream of taxpayer dollars is earmarked just for their programs.

I believe government can and does provide essential functions for our citizens. But there should pressure on the agencies each year to become as efficient as possible, in order that you, the taxpayer, can keep more of your hard-earned income.

That is why I have authored a bill that will

significantly reduce the number of earmarks in the state budget. Under this legislation, more than $450 million in state revenue will be un-earmarked. It represents about 15 percent of the total earmarked state General Fund dollars, leaving protected the funds that draw down federal matches or fund critical services.

Just as a business or family must have some flexibility in yearly budgeting to respond to changing priorities, the Legislature needs the ability to move resources to meet changing needs for our state.

Both excessive debt and high levels of taxation will mire an economy in sluggish growth. Republicans in the Legislature have stood firm against the Governor’s calls for massive, broad-based tax hikes. Yet, the challenge of fully funding essential programs like Pre-K for our children and Medicaid for the elderly can only be met if the Legislature has the flexibility to move funds on an as-needed basis.

Un-earmarking state revenue to create more flexibility is the crucial next step to ensure we deliver a sound financial future to our children and grandchildren. We have seen the dire consequences of debt and high tax rates in countries like Greece, states like Illinois, and cities like Detroit.

For Alabama to continue to afford the low tax rates we enjoy, the Legislature needs additional flexibility to more smartly allocate existing resources. That’s exactly why we need this un-earmarking bill to pass in the 2016 legislative session.

Republican Senator Cam Ward represents District 14 in the Alabama State Senate, which includes all or parts of Shelby, Bibb, Chilton, Hale, and Jefferson Counties. He serves as Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee. Follow him on Twitter: @SenCamWard

10

Friday–November 6, 2015

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

POLITICS

Alabama’s Uninsured face increased fines in 2015

By Joseph M. Morgan joseph@southerntorch.com

Citizens of Alabama who elect not to enroll in a health insurance plan in 2015/2016 will face increased fines. These fines are meant to incentivize individuals without insurance to obtain it through the federal marketplace. This “individual shared responsibility payment” was established by the Affordable Care Act (ACA), more commonly

referred to as Obamacare.

The ACA was passed in 2010 amid much controversy. The fees were also intended to offset the costs incurred on those insured through monthly premiums by the unpaid medical expenses of those uninsured. Alabama is one of 37 states that opted out of establishing a state run marketplace and must rely on the federally established market. Americans nationwide are facing an

increase of monthly premiums of an average of 7.5%, according to CNN Money.

The fines apply to any month an individual chooses not to buy health insurance. They are calculated through two different methods, being either by percentage of household income or per person in your household not covered under a plan, with the individual paying whichever is highest. The new rates are 2.5% of total

household income or the max total yearly premium of a Bronze plan sold through the marketplace under the percentage method, while per person increases to $625 for an adult and $347.50 per child under 18 with a maximum amount of $2085, according to healthcare.gov. This translates roughly to a 25% increase in fines on yearly household income from 2015. Per person fines reflect steeper increases of 48% per adult, 54% per child, and an increase of 54% in the maximum amount.

Conversely, if residents obtain insurance through the federal marketplace, they will receive a tax credit to offset the costs of the monthly premiums.

While the creators of the ACA intended this to be an adequate offset,

consumers will not benefit from this until taxes are filed. The best way to avoid the fines is to buy insurance during the ACA open enrollment period from November 1 until January 31, but many exemptions exist.

The government run website, healthcare.gov, maintains a tool to navigate the complex system of exemptions to see if an individual might qualify. For example, taxpayers may be found exempt if the cost of the Bronze plan (lowest level) is more than 8.05% of your household income.

Individuals are also exempt if their regular health insurance plan was cancelled due to Obamacare. The downside of some exemptions is that taxpayers will not be able to accurately determine if they qualify until taxes are filed in April 2016.

DeKalb Special Elections Conclude Tuesday

By Tyler Pruett tyler@southerntorch.com

On Tuesday, Nov. 10 Dekalb Residents of District 1 will head to the polls to elect a new constable. This will conclude a special election that saw the District 4 vacancy filled during the primary election as there was no candidate representing the Democratic party. The District 1 election will pit Republican Kyle Pike against Democrat George Roberts, both of whom won their respective primaries by large margins in September.

The primaries were

marked by extremely low turnout, with only 2.38% of voters turning out in District 1 and an even lower 0.85% turnout in District 4. Around the same percentages can be expected this Tuesday, since turnout levels are traditionally low for special elections.

Much of the controversy surrounding these elections involves a bill passed in 2010, which requires a special election to be held in the event that the position is left vacant with more than a year left in the term. The resignations during the summer met this criteria and

dates were set for the elections.

Prior to 2010, the Governor filled these vacancy without the taxpayers having to fund an election. This also means that the winners could potentially be facing a reelection next year. The attention has caused a debate about how necessary these positions really are. The coming year could be the deciding factor if Dekalb County retains the elected position. Only 24 counties out of the 67 in Alabama still retain the position.

Sports Moments & More Photography Kristy Gallagher 256-605-4048 Call for all your photo needs!

11

Friday–November 6, 2015

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Fyffe takes care of business

By Dustin Dobbins, Sports Reporter

Fyffe 34-Plainview 3 Everyone was excited it was the Fyffe vs Plainview game.

Both teams were on long winning streaks with playoffs on the horizon. The winner of this game would go into the playoffs with a lot of momentum. Not to mention the bragging rights for beating your arch rival for another year.

Plainview capitalized first on a Fyffe’s muffed punt. Louis Fernandez kicked a 29 yard field goal. Both defenses played great the rest of the quarter .

Plainview lead 3-0 after one quarter of play.

Fyffe took control in the second quarter scoring 3 touchdowns.

Ashley ran a 22 yard touchdown for Fyffe, Dunston’s kick was no good Fyffe 6-3. Fyffe’s next possession Kilpatrick bulled his way in for a 4 yard touchdown, Collins ran in the 2 point conversion. Fyffe 14-3. With 4.2 seconds before halftime Benefield threw a 33 yard touchdown pass to

Collins. Dunston’s kick was good. Fyffe 21 Plainview 3 at the half.

The third quarter saw Plainview throwing an interception to Anderson. Leading to Kilpatricks second touchdown of the game from 2 yards out.

Dunston’s kick was no good. Fyffe 27-3 ending the third quarter.

As the fourth quarter began, Kilpatrick scored his third touchdown of the game, on a nine yard sprint. Dunston’s kick was good. Fyffe wins 34-3 giving the Red Devils bragging rights for another year. For this impressive win, Fyffe is named The Southern Torch Team of the Week! Kilpatrick lead Fyffe with 124 yards and 3 touchdowns. Next week Fyffe will host LaFayette and Plainview will travel to Oakman.

Fort Payne wins a nailbiter

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

Fort Payne 27Anniston 26 Fort Payne traveled to Anniston for the last game of the regular season. It was a game to keep fans on their toes.

On the opening drive, Fort Payne took it to the Anniston 18-yard line but was forced to attempt a 35-yard field goal. The kick was no good.

Anniston took over on their own 18-yard line.

Michael Shaddix sacked the quarterback and forced Anniston to punt.

Desmon Turner scored for the Wildcats on a 6-yard run. The kick by Evan McPherson was good making the score 7-0. Trea Prater picked off the Anniston ball and stampeded into the endzone for 80 yards out.

The extra point attempt was not good. The Wildcats led 13-0.

Halfway thru the second quarter, Anniston scored a touchdown.

They went for two points but was shut down by Fort Payne. Before the half was over, Anniston was picked off by Will Anderson setting up the score when Desmon Turner dashed into the endzone on a one-yard run. The kick by Evan

McPherson was good.

Going into the half, Fort Payne led 20-6. Coach Paul Ellis, “ We played a great first half on both sides of the ball. Our defense had several big plays with the pick 6 by Trey Prater being the biggest and our offense was in sync.”

The second half was when Fort Payne Wildcat fans started to worry. It seemed that the wheels had fell off the Wildcat bus. In the third quarter, Anniston picked off a Wildcat pass and returned it for a Anniston touchdown. The kick was good. Making the score 20-13. Fort Payne answered back with a 10-yard gallop for a touchdown by Desmon Turner. The extra point attempt by McPherson was good. Anniston narrowed the lead when they picked off Fort Payne and returned it 35-yards for the score. The point after attempt was blocked by the Wildcats. The Wildcats held the Anniston Bulldogs and ran the clock out.

Coach Ellis had this to say about the second half of the game, “The second half was the total opposite especially on the offensive side of the ball.

We uncharacteristically turned the ball over four

times giving Anniston three quick scores, however, the defense blocked an extra point and made a huge stop down near the goal line to preserve the win 27-26.

Finishing 8-2 and being undefeated region champions is a great accomplishment for this team, especially in the fact that we had a great opportunity to be 9-1 or with some luck 10-0.

Great regular season.”

The Southern Torch Standouts of the game were Michael Shaddix, Will Anderson, Desmon Turner and Trea Prater.

Fort Payne will host Briarwood Christian in the first round of the playoffs, Friday night.

“Our team is very excited to compete in the 2015 AHSAA playoffs and have the opportunity to play a great team in Briarwood Christian Lions. They are always one of the best coached teams that we line up against. They have a record of excellence in football over many years. We are honored to play such a quality opponent and are excited about this game”, Coach Paul Ellis.

12

Friday–November 6, 2015

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Down in the Valley

By John E Morgan, Sports Reporter

Two old DeKalb County rivals. Two playoff bound teams.

Collinsville 34, Valley Head 16. But Valley Head’s coach was happier with his team after the game than Collinsville’s coach was with his.

Collinsville dominated this game in most ways. 375 yards of offense to Valley Head’s 177. Collinsville’s big play offense had seven passes and seven rushes of ten or more yards. The Panther defense held the Tigers to only 26 yards on the ground in the first half. Collinsville gave up only two passes and two rushes of ten yards or more. After a failed first possession, Collinsville scored four straight touchdowns to take a 28-8 half time lead.

Valley Head put together a touchdown drive on their second possession, going 65 yards in six plays including the two long passes. They had another six play, 65 yard drive in the fourth quarter that featured a fifty yard run

by quarterback Ethan Harrison.

Despite the Panther dominance, the Tigers never gave up. Their coach, Sam Graham, took notice. He said, “I am proud to be associated with the Valley Head Tigers tonight. They played their butts off.

They played harder tonight than all year long.” When asked if he felt his team had to gamble in the game, Graham said, “Collinsville is a great team. I probably cost our kids fourteen points when we gambled with fake punts and going for it on fourth down. But I believed in my team. I believed we could make it.” Valley Head converted four of five gambles on fourth down.

Graham’s final summary was, “I love every one of these kids”.

Collinsville’s Ernie Willingham was not as upbeat. He saw Panther dominance, but he also saw Panther mistakes.

Collinsville took the opening kickoff and drove to a first down on the three. And fumbled.

In the second half, they scored only once because of mistakes. In four straight plays, they had another first down at the three wiped out by a holding call. On the next play, they threw an interception. When they got the ball back, they had a 31 yard rush and then another fumble.

Willingham said, “Valley Head had a good game plan. They kept the ball away from us. They

went for it on fourth and had fake punts. They played really hard. But the problem is we still can’t hold on to the football. After ten games, we’ve got to learn to hold onto the ball.”

All year long Willingham has told his team that they have plenty of talent to win every game. If they cut out mistakes. He can take solace from that stretch in the first half

Sylvania dominates Ider

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

Sylvania 36-Ider 0 It must be something about knocking off the number one seed, to refresh and renew you.

Sylvania was coming off their huge win against

New Hope. Sylvania hosted Senior night and what a great way to bid farewell to the Seniors.

The Sylvania Rams charged into the game against Ider Friday night and never looked back.

They totally dominated the Ider Hornets for the

36-0 win.

Sylvania Junior, Caleb Roebuck took the opening kickoff back 95 yards for the touchdown.

The extra point by Nick Shepard was good, making the score 7-0 with only :13 ran off the clock. The Ider Hornets

took possession of the ball but could not get into the endzone. They settled for a field goal attempt but the kick was unsuccessful. With 1:01 left in the first, the Rams took over. Caleb Roebuck scored on a 4-yard dash and the extra point by Shepard was good.

The Ider Hornets took back possession but fumbled the ball. Hunter Miller brought it down 37 yards. Caleb Roebuck finished it off with a 37-stampede for the score. His third touchdown of the night.

The two-point conversion

by Ethan Dover made the score 22-0 going into the half.

After the half, the Rams held the Hornets to regain possession. With 6:20 left in the third, Dylan Dicus threw like a pro, to hit Ethan Dover.

Dover ran in from the 20 to score a Ram touchdown. The PAT by Shepard was good.

Crossville 17 The Geraldine Bulldogs played Crossville Lions Friday

night for what has been called the “Battle of Skirum Creek.” It is both team’s longest running rivalry. They have played each other ninety-four times. Crossville has won the battle 55 times.

Geraldine has won 36 times. There has been three tie games.

The Bulldogs scored first with a touchdown by Steven Hood. The Lions answered back with a 7-yard dash into the endzone by Blanton Jones. With only seconds left in the first quarter, Austin Willoughby

scored for the Bulldogs.

In the third, Crossville had a good drive but fumbled and Geraldine cashed in. After a 87-yard drive, Bryan Jimenez, brought it into the endzone for the Geraldine Bulldogs.

To start the fourth quarter off, Banks Jolley scored on a 24-yard run for the Crossville Lions but they never could catch up to the Bulldogs.

Geraldine wins 38-17.

It has been a tough season for the Crossville Lions. They finished this season with a 1 and 9

Bulldogs battle the Lions

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

Geraldine 38-

when they scored those four straight touchdowns. Two of the TDs came on drives of less than thirty seconds. He can also take solace in the play of backup quarterback Keaton Kilgro and the solid running of Trenton Nash and Gerald Blakely. But he knows that unbeaten Randolph County is coming up Friday. And his Panthers will need to hold onto the ball.

In the fourth, Ider fumbled again on the 30 yard line. They held the Rams. The Rams returned the favor and held the Hornets and took over possession midfield setting up the scoring opportunity for Dylan Discus with 7:13 left in the game. The kick

by Shepard was good.

Final score was Sylvania Rams 36, Ider Hornets 0.

Coach Putnam had this to stay about his Rams, “We played the most complete game of the year. Proud of our seniors for finishing strong and excited about the future.”

The Southern Torch Standouts for the game were Caleb Roebuck, Dylan Dicus, Hunter Miller and Nick Shepard.

Roebuck rushed for 116 yards on 12 carries.

Discus had 92 yards on 12 carries. Hunter Miller had 70 yards on 8 carries.

Nick Shepard kicked a perfect game.

record. The Geraldine Bulldogs will start the State Playoffs against Winfield.

The Southern Torch Standouts for the game were Geraldine’s Austin Willoughby, Steven Hood and Bryan Jimenez.

Willoughby had 13 carries for 137 yards and one touchdown. Steven Hood had 13 carries for 114 yards and two touchdowns. Bryan Jimenez had fourteen carries for 73 yards and two touchdowns.

13

Friday–November 6, 2015

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Due to the possibility of bad weather, a few schools have changed the date of their playoff games.

Thursday, November 5, 2015 at 7:00

Friday, November 6, 2015 at 7:00

Geraldine @ Winfield LaFayette @ Fyffe Plainview @ Oakman

Briarwood@ Fort Payne Collinsville @ Randolph County Valley Head @ Wadley

Southern Torch Gameday Report with Sideline Guru Dustin Dobbins Sideline Guru (Playoffs!)

Hello again Dekalb County Football Fans. The regular season is over and the playoffs start this week every team has to be on top of their game now.

It’s one loss and your done from this point on. Six teams from Dekalb County made the playoffs. Fyffe and Fort Payne play at home. Plainview, Geraldine, Collinsville and Valley Head take to the road. So let’s get started.

Lafayette (6-4) at Fyffe (9-1) The Bulldogs come to Red Devil Stadium Thursday night, looking for a upset. Whitlow is having a good year at Quarterback. He has thrown 15 touchdowns but also has thrown 11 interceptions (Hum).

Boston-Gaines is the main receiver with 70 yards a game.

Houston is the main rusher with about 70 yards a game. On defense Dukes, King ,Higgins and Boston all have a 100 tackles. For the Red Devils

Benefield and Kilpatrick will lead the offense and the Martin boys will lead the defense.

Bulldogs give up over 30 points a game and Kilpatrick and company will get those numbers and more. Fyffe wins 42-14.

Briarwood Christian (4-6) at Fort Payne (8-2) The Lion’s made the playoffs somehow. Their passing game is awful, 1 touchdown and 15 interceptions and their leading rusher only gets 31 yards a game, on top of that the Lions defense is suspect at best. The Wildcats are going to win this one fairly easily. Turner should have big game. King and Ridgeway play good to. Wildcats 31-14.

Valley Head ( 3-7) at Wadley (8-1) The Tigers take to the road to play the Bulldogs. Harrison and Leps won’t be enough on offense and Nixs and Harrison won’t be enough to slow down the Bulldogs explosive offense.

Bulldogs 42-18.

Collinsville (6-4)

at Randolph County (10-0) The Panthers travel to Wedowee for the first round of playoffs . The Panther’s will need Jones and Reed back to have a chance in this game and the Brockitt brothers also, while Blakely and Nash will have to be at top of their game.

The Tigers are the real deal with Hannah averaging 157 yards a game rushing. Prestridge 141 yards passing and as a team the Tigers score 40 points a game , while rolling up 400 yards a game on offense. This spells a loss for the Panther’s. Tigers win 40-18.

Geraldine (6-4) at Winfield (9-1) The Bulldogs could be in trouble. Hood, Willoughby and Jiminez will have to play both sides of the ball extremely well and Murphy will have to play more aggressive throwing the ball. The Pirates get 40 plus points a game and give up around 2 touchdowns a game.

Pirates win 33-12.

Plainview (6-4) at Oakman (7-3)

The Bears lost to Fyffe last week. In a hard fought game, the good thing was no one got injured before the playoffs started. Dukes will recover fine and Mueller will be back to himself this week “hardnose running “. The tackling robots Farmer and Wooten should anchor the defense. The Wildcats 2 backs Martin (with over a 1,000 yards rushing) and Gilbreath with 900 yards rushing. Lyles is the Wildcats main receiver with close 500 yards and that kid Keys has 12 touchdowns. The Tigers Defense is led by Caldwell with 93 tackles and Moody with 80.

This is hard one to call. May have to flip a coin on this game.

I’m going with my gut feeling on this one. The Bears win with a solid defensive performance 21-14. See you at the game don’t forget your hand warmers. *Next week we will have Southern Torch Most outstanding players of the year and Offensive and Defensive MVP’s.

Southern Torch Most Wanted - PLAYOFFS Top Quarterbacks

1) Crossville / Pointer 2) Fort Payne / Ellis 3) Collinsville / Jones 4) Collinsville / Kilgro 5) Plainview / Dukes 6) Fyffe / Benefield 7) Geraldine / Murphy 8) Valley Head / Harrison 9) Sylvania / Dicus 10) Ider / Dobbins

Attempts Yards 84/161 74/127 53/73 45/70 65/123 17/31 29/71 18/34 21/45 12/22

1017 825 715 706 649 507 434 280 215 180

Touchdowns Interceptions 7 5 9 4 4 8 2 4 2 2

No stats at press time for Ider this week

Top Running Backs

1 ) Fyffe / Kilpatrick 2) Fort Payne / Turner 3) Sylvania / Roebuck 4) Geraldine /Hood 5) Plainview / Mueller 6) Valley Head / Leps 7 ) Geraldine / Willoughby 8) Ider / Palmer 9) Sylvania / Dicus 10) Fyffe / Benefield

1892 1830 1308 1106 961 954 796 654 624 593

Touchdowns 25 24 15 16 10 15 7 9 6 8

No stats at press time for Ider this week

Top Wide Outs

1) Crossville / Jones 2) Collinsville / Reed 3) Collinsville / Brockitt 4) Crossville / Dismuke 5) Fort Payne / W.King 6) Collinsville / Blakely 7) Fyffe / Collins 8) Fort Payne / Ridgeway 9) Fort Payne / Turner 10) Geraldine / Willoughby

No stats this week at press time for Ider

1) Plainview / Wooten 2) Plainview / Farmer 3) Collinsville / Blakely 3) Geraldine / Hood 5) Fyffe/ R. Martin 6) Fyffe / D.Martin 7) Sylvania / Dover 8) Fort Payne / Berry 9) Crossville / Luther 9) Valley Head / Nix

Tackles 106 104 91 91 78 75 74 73 72 72

Most Touchdown

1) Fort Payne / Turner 2) Fyffe / Kilpatrick 3) Sylvania / Roebuck 4) Geraldine / Hood 5) Valley Head / Leps 6) Collinsville / Blakely 7) Collinsville / Reed 8) Plainview / Mueller 9) Fyffe / Anderson 10) Fyffe / Benefield

Touchdowns 26 25 17 16 15 14 12 10 9 8

No stats at press time this week for Ider

Receptions Yards 27 23 17 27 26 22 9 28 15 14

Top Tacklers

No Stats for this week at Press time for Ider

Attempts Yards 180 272 226 128 136 94 146 85 87 66

7 8 4 1 5 2 4 0 4 2

499 385 382 377 371 294 255 245 207 207

Touchdowns 2 6 3 3 2 2 6 1 2 0

All stats are subject to change weekly according to how accurate schools send stats in.

OFFENSIVE MVP CANIDATES Fort Payne / Turner Fyffe / Kilpatrick Geraldine / Hood Sylvania / Roebuck

DEFFENSIVE MVP CANIDATES Plainview / Farmer Plainview / Wooten Geraldine / Hood Collinsville / Blakely

14

Friday–November 6, 2015

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

TEAM OF THE WEEK

Fyffe Red Devils

Congratulations, Fyffe Red Devils! You are the Southern Torch Team of the Week for your impressive win over Plainview!

James Williams Photography

CONGRATULATIONS FYFFE! James Williams, Owner Geraldine, AL (256) 996-0288

jameswilliamsphotography@yahoo.com

THE CUPBOARD 991 Main Street, Fyffe, AL 256-601-6867

WAY TO GO, FYFFE!

Xpressions Hair Studio

269 McCurdy Ave S, Fyffe, AL (256) 638-4959

GO BIG RED

from Mendy Hosch, Elizabeth Townsel Coppock, and Betsy Townsel