The Southern Torch, Vol. 1, No. 31

THE SOUTHERN TORCH / FRIDAY DECEMBER 25, 2015 / VOL. 1, NO. 31 / $1.00

COMMUNITY

BUSINESS

POLITICS

THE MEANING OF CHRISTMAS

TREAT OF THE WEEK: NANCY’S LUNCHBOX AT ALICE CIRCLE

PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARY UPDATE: LESS THAN SIX WEEKS UNTIL IOWA

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Fort Payne Main Street names new director

By Joseph M. Morgan joseph@southerntorch.com

FORT PAYNE, Ala.— The Fort Payne Main Street Board of Directors announced earlier this week that Beverly Pike

has been selected to fill the Executive Director position. The official announcement took place at Roger’s Pawn & Music and included CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

Tide supports Bryson

accident, which ultimately ended in the amputation of Richey’s leg.

Richey was very involved in sports, and he and his family are huge Alabama football fans.

Geraldine takes home the championship at the 2015 sand mountain christmas tournament. for more, turn to sports on page 10 signed football, a picture, a media guide, a poster, and invited him to watch a day of practice in Tuscaloosa. On Oct. 22, the Richey family cashed in that invitation and headed down to Tuscaloosa.

During the day in Tuscaloosa, the Richeys met the coaches and the players, along with being able to see the team practice for their game against the Tennessee Vols. Richey and his family distributed “Bryson Strong” bracelets to the team, which

THIS WEEK IN COMMUNITY

Christmas Magic Christmas is a magical time for children. They can not wait for Santa to arrive with their parent…

Pages 3

THIS WEEK IN FAITH

The Magic Moment

It was the first Christmas that I would not be with my parents and family in Nashville. Sounded awful…

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CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 OPINION / EDITORIAL

Rep. Holmes should focus on improving district, not removing flags

Ryan Kelly, Bryson, Dillon Lee

By Karah Wilson karah@southerntorch.com

RAINSVILLE, Ala.— In the South, college football season is considered one of the most important times of the year. Whether you yell “War Eagle!” or “Roll Tide!”

Saturdays are dedicated to watching your favorite team play. For the Richey family, Alabama football was taken to a whole new level.

Last August before school started, Richey and his friends decided to ride ATVs near Little Mountain Lakes Resort when Richey turned a curve too fast and the ATV flipped on his leg. Richey’s friends rushed to call 911 and he was airlifted to Huntsville Hospital. Bryson’s mother, Danielle Richey, noticed her son’s foot was cold. Doctors told her that her son’s blood flow was cut off during the

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Late last week, State Rep. Alvin Holmes (D - Montgomery) sent a letter to Gov. Robert Bentley requesting the Confederate flag be removed from the Alabama coat of arms on our state trooper’s vehicles and uniforms…

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Jake Coker and Bryson

“Alabama football is huge in both of our families,” Danielle said. Right after the accident, Richey received a special phone call from Alabama head coach Nick Saban. Saban sent Richey a

THIS WEEK IN SPORTS Eddie Jackson and Bryson

The Southern Torch – Southern Torch, Inc. News every Friday.

For Subscriptions: Call (256) 638-4040 or email subscriptions@southerntorch.com

Geraldine Bulldogs win tournament in overtime Geraldine defeated Section in overtime to win the Sand Mountain Tournament, Saturday night. Geraldine led by 2 going into the second quarter. Section tied the game 20-20 going into the half…

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PAID

PERMIT NO. 60 RAINSVILLE, AL

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Friday–December 25, 2015

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Publisher, Joseph M. Morgan Layout editor, Dwayne Adams

DeKalb County Detention Center shares Christmas with inmates

By Joseph M. Morgan joseph@southerntorch.com

FORT PAYNE, Ala.— The 200 plus inmates at the DeKalb County Jail received a surprise blessing from the 40 members of the Nazareth Baptist Church choir along with Robert Reed music minister and Pastor Jason Bell on December 17th. The Choir put on a musical Christmas play and also

Pastor Bell delivered a special message. This is the 6th time in the last 8 years that Nazareth Baptist Church came to the Jail and blessed us with this musical Christmas play. Sheriff Harris is so proud of the members of his church for taking time out of their Holidays to bring such a blessing to the men and women in the jail who cannot go on their own to church.

Rainsville Council approves contracts, hires new employees

By Joseph M. Morgan joseph@southerntorch.com

RAINSVILLE, Ala.— The Rainsville City Council met Monday night to address a number of issues including the hire of new police officers.

The council voted to approve the hire of one

full-time patrolman, Eric Tidmore, and one part-time police officer, Travis Chapman.

The council also addressed the following city business: • Approved the city to enter into a contract to purchase fireworks for

2016 Freedom Fest for $9,958

• Approved the city to enter into a contract with Plainview High School from Jan 1, 2016 through Dec. 31, 2018 for the construction of a building at the softball field.

• Voted to pay Rotorooter roughly $3,000 for the work they completed to address emergency sewer issues at the Rainsville Library that shut the building down Thursday, Friday and Saturday of last week.

chael’s Tree Trimming

• Approval to pay Mi-

on Jan. 4, 2016.

$900 to trim the Bradford Pear trees at the city’s wastewater treatment facility.

The Rainsville City Council will meet again

Continued from page 1

Fort Payne Main Street names new director comments from Beverly Pike, introducing her to merchants, city council members and Main Street supporters.

“I am thrilled to move

back to my hometown bringing collective professional skills that will move the project through the next stages of Fort Payne Main

Street,” Pike said. “We are super excited to get the next phase started as our citizens and merchants support base continues to grow.”

The Main Street organization works with cities throughout the country on a state and national level to preserve the historic integrity and improve the economies of selected communities.

Fort Payne was one of the three communities selected throughout the state of Alabama for this year. The organization helps Main Street cities like Fort Payne create new jobs and attract dollars and people back to the downtown area of our historic community.

Pike explained that

Fort Payne Main Street will use the Main Street Four­Point Approach to downtown revitalization which has been used successfully in over 1,600 communities across the country. The focus is in four areas: organization, promotion, design, and economic restructuring.

Pike said Some of the activities Fort Payne Main Street will undertake include strengthening the mix of businesses, preserving the historic characteristics of downtown buildings, making the core area more pedestrian­-friendly, business recruitment and retention, and coordinating promotional events throughout the year.

“Main Street is a grassroots effort that relies on community cooperation, feedback and working together in seeing our Downtown grow,” Pike said. “It’s about local volunteers, leadership, and individuals who are willing to step forward and support their community in economic revitalization.

It’s about hometown people preserving our heritage in rich natural resources, supporting innovative growth and cultural dynamics to achieve economic vitality.”

Continued from page 1

Tide supports Bryson could be seen on the wrists of Ardarius Stewart, Derrick Henry, and Adam Griffith during games.

“A lot of the player wear theirs, but it is under their tape,” Alabama head trainer Jeff Allen said.

Richey said it’s humbling to have the support of the Crimson Tide. “I think it is awesome that they think of me by wearing the bracelets,” Richey said. “I can’t wait to play football again myself.”

“Bryson is so encouraged by them. He looks up to those

guys because they are living out his dream of playing football. My husband, Brian, and I have been been amazed at how people want to reach out to him and give themselves to help him.”

Danielle said.

Richey has recently received videos from Derrick Henry, Dillon Lee, Jake Coker, Ryan Kelly, A’Shawn Robinson, and Coach Scott Cochran giving him words of encouragement. “I know you’re going through some stuff but you’re going to be

alright. God’s got you. We’ll be praying for you,” Coach Cochran said. “We wish you the best. Thanks for being an Alabama fan,” Lee said.

The love and support from the Alabama Crimson Tide, and from friends and family, has been overwhelming for the Richey family. Danielle said, “To know that they think enough of our child to do all they have done for him is so special to us. Maybe one day he will be the first amputee to play football at Alabama!”

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Friday–December 25, 2015

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

COMMUNITY

The meaning of Christmas

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

Southern Torch Staff: The things we love about Christmas Southern Torch wishes each and every one of you a Merry Christmas and we send our best regards to you and your family. May your Christmas be filled with food, presents, family, and love! Below, we had each member of our staff talk about some of the things that make Christmas special to them. Merry Christmas from our family to yours!

Joseph Morgan

Editor and Publisher My favorite part of Christmas is spending time with family. I love being around my nieces and nephews and sharing in their excitement as we exchange gifts, eat too much, sing carols and read the Christmas Story.

Angie Reynoso

By Karah Wilson karah@southerntorch.com

DEKALB CO., Ala.— Christmas holds many different meanings and traditions to people all around the world. It is the season for giving, and receiving, but most people celebrate Christmas as the birth of Jesus Christ.

In the second chapter of Luke in the Bible, the birth of Jesus is told. It is told that Caesar Augustus demanded that a census be taken of the entire Roman empire, meaning that Mary and Joseph had to travel to Bethlehem, leaving Nazareth, where they resided. During their travels, Mary was with child, who was late to be named Jesus. While Mary and Joseph were in Bethlehem, it was time for Jesus to be born. The couple went to find a room for Jesus’ birth, but there was no room for

them. This caused Mary to give birth to Jesus in a manger. Around the same time of His birth, an Angel appeared to nearby shepherds telling them what had happened.

Once the Angel left, the shepherds. There were three kings who also visited the baby Jesus and presented him with gifts.

On the eighth day after He was born, he was given the name Jesus.

The Salvation Army makes Christmas about giving and giving back by using volunteers to ring a bell near a red kettle around the county. The donations made help Salvation Army provide for those who need some assistance. Other ways to give during the holidays is donating your old clothes, your money, or even your time. “Bell ringing starts in November and ends on Christmas Eve. For children, the red kettles

Christmas magic

By Staff Reports

DEKALB CO., Ala.— Christmas is a magical time for children. They can not wait for Santa to arrive with their presents. Sadly, some children in the Dekalb County area will not have anything under the tree this Christmas.

Last year, several people felt the need to help those less fortunate.

It started with a 5k run in Sylvania before the Christmas parade.

Through donations, eight children received clothes, gifts, Christmas dinners, and Bibles. This year, with the help of several local churches and

donations, twenty-two children were provided with Bibles, coats, clothes, socks, shoes and toys. Meals were provided from several local restaurants for the family.

For two years, Southern Torch Sports Editor, Marla Jones and a slew of volunteers, have bought and delivered gifts to those in need. “I am honored and blessed to be able to do this. The Lord has richly blessed this endeavor and I could never do this without help from friends and family,” Jones said. “I would like to personally thank everyone who has been involved.”

represent Santa Claus and their faces light with joy knowing that they are helping him with his mission for Christmas by giving donations. For adults, the kettles represent not only a good deed, but hope,” volunteer Donna Gifford said. “By giving a little bit of change, they’re changing families lives.

A penny really adds up at the end of the day. What most people consider spare change, makes a change. It really makes a difference to a family whose power would’ve been shut off without it of a family who can’t afford to buy food. Sure, the constant dinging of the bell can be irksome, but it is a calling to those willing to reach out. I personally love ringing season. I love having the opportunity to meet new people and hear their stories. It’s a great way to be involved in the community and to help. I really hope I’m making a difference in the lives of the people I meet, because they honestly make a difference in mine and I am so grateful for the the salvation army and what we do.”

Christmas is also a time for traditions, whether that is picking out a tree, watching movies, or family dinners. Of course, you can’t forget about Santa visiting on Christmas Eve. If you have small children, their excitement for the long awaited night is probably through the roof. Family traditions are something to be held near and dear as they can last a lifetime, and even after by passing it down through generations.

Office Manager

My favorite part of Christmas is Christmas movies, the lights, decorations and family gatherings but there is nothing greater than to see the excitement on my kids face on Christmas morning with the smiles and giggles as they unwrap each gift. Its priceless!

Diego Reynoso

Director of Operations & Distribution Watching Christmas movies. My favorites are “White Christmas,” “A Christmas Story,” “Christmas Carol” with George C Scott and “It’s a Wonderful Life.”

Dwayne Adams Layout Editor & Graphic Designer

My favorite part of Christmas is simply being able to take a break from the daily grind and enjoy fellowship with others. And when it snows it’s even better because everything stops and we are given a moment to reflect, and be thankful.

Marla Jones Sports Editor

My favorite part of Christmas is getting to spend time with those I love.

I enjoyed watching my children open their presents but there is just something a little more special seeing the magic of Christmas thru your Grandchildren’s eyes. Merry Christmas!!!

Tyler Pruett

Political Correspondent Every Christmas since the age of 15, I’ve read “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens in its original form.

As stressful and commercialized as the holidays can be, it’s helpful to be reminded not to be a “Scrooge,” and remember the reason for the season!

Karah Wilson Intern

For me, Christmas means going to church and reliving the Christmas story. I also love being able to purchase gifts for all my friends and family that I know best represents their personality and being able to see their faces as they open it.

Merry Christmas!

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Friday–December 25, 2015

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Rainsville hosts 2nd Annual Bull Bash

By Tyler Pruett tyler@southerntorch.com

Professional Bull Riding is coming to Dekalb County for the second annual 2016 Bull Bash. The event will be held on Friday and Saturday, January 8 - 9, 2016 at the North Alabama Agribusiness Center, with events also at the Dekalb County Farmer’s Co-op and Trading Post Boot Store.

Doors open at 6:00 p.m. on Friday with the event concluding at 10:00 p.m.

Saturday. Early tickets are being sold from December 21 until January 7, and are $17.00 for adults and $12.00 for kids. Tickets will also be sold at the door during the event at $20.00 for adults and $15.00 for kids.

Ricky West, owner and operator of Rickey

West Bucking Bulls in Fyffe, is helping promote the event. West owns 300 head of livestock on his ranch, and raises bulls that are ridden in PBR competition. Normally he has to travel for his bulls to compete, but next month he’ll get to take them right down the road to Rainsville. This is the “first time an event like this has been brought into the area,” he said.

Being an official PBR event means that some of the best riders and bulls will be making a stop in Dekalb County, and will be competing for $6000 and a buckle. The event will have six judges and will be scored similar to Olympic events. “To see this caliber of contestants for that money…. most people would have to go to Atlanta and pay $100,” said West.

COMMUNITY

NACC interns use classroom knowledge in real workplace

(Pictured left to right): Amy LaCount, NACC Instructor; Sonia Phillips, OAD Student/Intern; Ms. Ernestine Pace, retiring NACC Instructor; LaTasha Dove, OAD Student/Intern; Ms. Susanna Sivley, Chief Resources Officer, Highlands Medical Center; Ms. Sherry Whitten, NACC Director of Career Placement.

By Karah Wilson karah@southerntorch.com

RAINSVILLE, Ala.— The Office Administration program at Northeast Alabama Community College training in word processing, keyboarding, oral and written communication, as well as records management and organizational skills.

The program offers three career options. These options include general, medical, and paralegal.

One part of the OAD program involves

students working as interns for local employers where they can put everything they have learned to the test.

During their last semester, students generally work for businesses such as Highlands Medical Center in Scottsboro.

The students who intern at Highlands are able to practice in different departments of the health care center which lets them use their classroom experience in

different areas. Northeast plans to add other employers for their students to intern with.

OAD Instructor Ms. Amy LaCount said, “The job opportunities for administrative assistants in all areas of business are expected to increase according to the U.S. Department of Labor.

Employees who already have a working knowledge of their desired field are an asset to employers, and NACC values the opportunity to give students an advantage to enhance their employability prospects.”

If you are an employer interested in knowing more about the internship program or a potential student interested in pursuing a degree in Office Administration, please contact LaCount at 256-228-6001, 256-6384418, ext. 2269, or email her at lacounta@nacc.edu.

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Friday–December 25, 2015

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

BUSINESS Nancy’s Lunchbox at Alice Circle Homemade Chicken Salad Sandwith Rainsville, AL EXCELLENT

VERY GOOD

This week Southern Torch went to Nancy’s LunchBox at Alice Circle for your Treat of the week.

One word describes this convenient and fun packed lunch..AMAZING! We chose the homemade chicken salad sandwich as our treat. It comes on a croissant roll with 2 sides, pickle and drink. We selected the ranch pasta salad, kettle chips and sweet tea as our sides.

We were also very impressed with the package it comes to you in, a cute brown paper handled bag with everything packed neatly inside, just like your mama would do it. It was the perfect little lunchbox. I can not forget to tell you about the out of this world experience with their peanut butter cupcake we devoured as our dessert. It’s delicious and melts in your mouth! Nancy’s lunchbox will be seeing us again very soon. Overall experience, Very Good with 4 stars to prove it.

VERY GOOD ADDRESS: CONTACT: 1012 Main St W Rainsville, AL 35986

Tel. (256) 638-5926 or (256) 638-2688

This ‘Treat of the Week’ was originally printed in issue number 25 on Friday, Nov. 13th

MEDIOCRE

MODERATE

WEAK

$7.95

CHAMBER CHATTER December 23, 2015 Carol Beddingfield, Executive Director The Fort Payne Christmas Parade was a huge success again this year. This was the first year since I have been director that it was not freezing or below. In fact, one year it was 10 degrees when the parade started.

The Santa Dash is a great addition to the parade festivities. The run certainly fills the time space until the parade arrives downtown.

Congratulations to Susan Smith for her efforts to create the run.

The lighted, real Christmas tree really added to the City’s Christmas in the Park. The civic clubs involvement included providing refreshments.

The winners of the floats for this year are the following: Chamber Choice, Primera Iglesias Bautista De Fort Payne; Mayor’s Choice, Heritage Wire Harness; People’s Choice, Playcore; and Best Overall, RTI. The Chamber has the most dedicated Board of Directors. This special group provides the manpower to insure the parade is a success.

They are responsible for the entries to inter the VFW fairgrounds in proper order and to create a smooth flow into the parade lineup.

Many people have questioned the length of the parade. The VFW fairgrounds provide a safe gathering place for the large number of floats and other entries.

Another wish by many is to have more high school bands. Many years ago before each town in the county had a parade, the bands did participate in the Fort Payne parade. The principals explained to me that the parade would be considered a field trip for the students.

The positive comments have been overwhelming about this year’s parade. I hope the parade has put you in the Christmas mood. I now encourage you to shop local. Remember your dollars spent in Fort Payne improves your quality of life.

On behalf of the Fort Payne Chamber Board of Directors, I want to wish each of you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

UNEMPLOYMENT NUMBERS IN DEKALB FALL TO 5.7%

By Joseph M. Morgan joseph@southerntorch.com

MONTGOMERY, Ala.— Governor Robert Bentley on Friday announced that Alabama’s preliminary, seasonally adjusted November unemployment rate is 6.0% statewide and 5.7% in DeKalb County.

“We are coming closer and closer to hitting that golden wage and salary employment number of two million jobs,” Governor Robert Bentley said. “We are less than 25,000 jobs shy of attaining pre-recession employment levels in Alabama. We haven’t seen wage and salary employment at two million since June 2008, prior to the recession’s effects in our state. Our economy is strong, and my goal is that every Alabamian who wants a job can obtain one.”

“The very slight uptick in November’s unemployment rate is due to the fact that more people entered the workforce, perhaps looking for seasonal employment,” Alabama Labor Department Commissioner Fitzgerald Washington said. “Additionally, more people are employed both over the month and over the year, so this small increase is not necessarily bad news.”

The Civilian Labor Force (CLF) increased in November to 2,146,294 from 2,141,221in October and from 2,130,131 in November 2014

(seasonally adjusted). CLF employment also increased to 2,018,189 from 2,014,056 in October and from 1,999,222 in November 2014.

Wage and salary employment increased in November by 12,800 to 1,975,700. Monthly gains were seen in the trade, transportation, and utilities sector (+9,100), the education and health services sector (+2,800), and the government sector (+1,800), among others.

Over the year, wage and salary employment increased by 24,900, with gains in the leisure and hospitality sector (+6,400), the education and health services sector (+5,900), the trade, transportation, and utilities sector (+4,800), and the construction sector (+4,700), among others.

“The fact that the construction sector continues to show improvement over the year is another good sign for Alabama’s economy,” Washington added. “Construction employment hasn’t been this healthy since 2010. If construction is occurring, then confidence in the economy is generally optimistic.”

Counties with the lowest unemployment rates are: Shelby County at 4.0%, Lee County at 4.7%, and Elmore, Cullman, and St. Clair Counties at 4.8%.

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Friday–December 25, 2015

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FAITH

The Magic Moment

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

It was the first Christmas that I would not be with my parents and family in Nashville.

Sounded awful.

Nashville Christmas was my daddy’s boiled custard and sausage balls, my mother’s big dinner, the living room full of presents under a beautiful Tennessee cedar tree. A Nashville Christmas was all of my sisters and their families.

It was touch football in the front yard. It was all I had ever known. I had always been there. And now I would not be there.

It was 1978. We had lived in Collinsville for a year. We had two amazing little boys. And now we were expecting another one. Soon.

There would be no travel this Christmas.

On December 23, my wife told me it was time.

We left the house to go to Gadsden to the hospital.

Two girls from the church youth group came over and stayed with our boys.

Since this was our third time through, we knew the ropes. We checked in at the hospital and went to the waiting room. Babies come when they come. Somehow

each of our four came only after a full night of waiting. The nurses came in and out of the room as we waited. We smiled and held hands between pains. We knew it was almost time for the magic moment.

Finally, both of us to moved into the delivery room. The third delivery turned out to be the easiest of the four. The baby arrived, and Gloria and I smiled. No, we beamed. And cried a little. The magic moment came – the moment when you first hold your newborn baby. It is a moment that is indescribable to someone who has not experienced it. And unnecessary to describe to anyone who has. I do not know how anybody can have a baby and not believe in God. Birth is a miracle.

We moved over to a regular room. My wife was, of course, exhausted. I kissed her and got ready to go back home. As I walked out of the hospital into the cool December air it was just before dawn on December 24, Christmas Eve. I stopped at the Waffle House to celebrate

with breakfast (our family really knows how to party).

I woke up Claire and Robin and sent them home. When John and Mark woke up, I told them their new baby brother had come and everybody was fine. And that his name was Matthew.

I napped a little before going back to the hospital. When I got there, I went to the nursery and looked through the window at Matthew. He was all pink skinned and wrinkled on his blue blanket. He was perfect.

Gloria and I had known that a birth on Christmas Eve would mean that she would spend Christmas in the hospital. And that we would both be away from our families for the first time ever on Christmas.

We knew we would miss them. But, oh, this was so much better. How wonderful. Again – how miraculous Matthew was.

On Christmas day, I received a couple of presents. First, Gloria’s parents showed up at our house. They could not stand the idea of having a

grandchild they had not seen. Then the phone rang. It was Gloria. She asked if I could maybe come pick her and Matthew up. It had only been a little over twenty four hours since the birth, but the hospital had decided that Matthew and his mother should not be in the hospital on Christmas Day. I rushed down to get them. Matthew was fine.

Gloria was exhausted for several days, her price for coming home early.

Back home, we celebrated Christmas in a way that we never would again. A new born baby at our house on Christmas day. What a present.

Who else has ever known the joy of a newborn on Christmas?

Maybe you can think of someone who had a baby far from home and family. Merry Christmas.

Remember the baby.

And she brought forth her first-born son and wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

Luke 2:7

something so fulfilling, as well as fun in giving!

As a young girl I always dreamt of giving people vehicles as gifts, a Hummer to be exact (slightly humorous looking back at how I was so specific and how our taste changes.) To fast forward many many years, I am a broke graduate student working on a masters, with 2 jobs. Maybe one day I will be making the “big bucks” and can make those childhood dreams a reality!

Sadly, as I have gotten older, I feel as though the spirit of Christmas is dwindling. As a child things were so special

and exciting. Yet, as an adult Christmas can tend to be stressful and almost rushed. For example, trying to make it all the family dinners and/or work parties can be overwhelming. Aside from all that, it saddens me that for many, the Christmas story has been labeled familiar and that perhaps we aren’t inspired anymore. Maybe you’re not moved by the story of Jesus being born in a manger anymore because you’ve heard it your entire life. Been there, done that, you know all the songs, etc.

However, when we become too “familiar” with something, it can be easy to miss the beauty of it.

It is very easy to focus on giving or receiving gifts from family or friends and forgetting the true meaning of Christmas. Thanks to television, it can even be easier to focus our attention on “Santa Claus” and all the gifts he will bring us more than the real reason for the season. This may sound harsh, but I say this with love, it’s not our birthday December 25th, it Jesus’.

What are we giving HIM? In my opinion, His birth is the most important birth that the

world has ever known!

December 25th is the day we celebrate a true King being born. A King who grew up to have such courage and love to be nailed to a cross and take a punishment for OUR sins. A King who shares his inheritance with his sons and daughters, you and I. Nothing ordinary came from the birth of Jesus.

I am reminded on the YouTube video, “That’s My King.” If you have not watched it, I would encourage you to do so!

Part of the video goes like this…”He strengthens and sustains, He heals the sick, He forgives sinners, He serves the unfortunate, He rewards the diligent, He is the wellspring of wisdom, He is the pathway of peace, His goodness is limitless, His mercy is everlasting, His love never changes, His grace is sufficient, The Pharasees couldn’t stand him, but they found out they couldn’t

stop him, Herod couldn’t kill him, and the grave couldn’t hold him..”

That’s my King!!!

Friend, our King deserves to be celebrated!

I long for the day we are all in Heaven and get to partake in the birthday celebration in person with Him! How beautifully amazing will that be?! So friend, like I mentioned earlier, it’s easy to get carried away in the hustle and bustle, but I challenge you this Christmas to step back from the busy schedule, take a breather, and mediate on the beauty of the birth of Jesus Christ.

Will we acknowledge the birth of our Savior, or will our mind be consumed with parties and gifts? There is absolutely nothing wrong with parties and gifts but I pray we are all mindful that without Christ there would be no Christmas. I hope you all have a very blessed and merry Christmas! See you next week!

A Moment with Megan: It’s His Birthday!

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

The day many of us have anticipated is among us! Christmas day is only days away! If you’re anything like me, this is both exciting and slightly stressful. I absolutely love Christmas time and I absolutely love buying presents for people. Mix those two things together and you’ve got a broke girl who is sad that she can’t go out and buy loved ones MORE presents! There is

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Friday–December 25, 2015

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

OPINION / EDITORIAL Holmes should focus on improving district, not removing flags

Rep. Alvin Holmes petitioned the Governor to have the Confederate flag removed from the Alabama State Trooper’s coat of arms

By Tyler Pruett tyler@southerntorch.com

Late last week, State Rep. Alvin Holmes (D Montgomery) sent a letter to Gov. Robert Bentley requesting the Confederate flag be removed from the Alabama coat of arms on our state trooper’s vehicles and uniforms.

This follows a push across the south for removal of the historic flag after a racially motivated attack in Charleston earlier in the year. In the aftermath, Governor Nikki Haley ordered the flag removed, and many other states as

well as local governments followed suit, though not without significant debate. Also last week, the New Orleans city council voted to remove all monuments within the city to Confederate soldiers who lost their lives in the war.

Lawmakers and activists who are proponents of the removal claim that the symbols insight hate and are offensive. Rep. Holmes is one of them, calling it “the official flag of the KKK,” and a, “symbol of racism and hatred towards black people in Alabama.” Keep

in mind that Holmes is no stranger to controversial remarks, stating last year in reference to his support of gay rights that, “if a man meets a little mule and he wanna marry the little mule, as long as he and the little mule get along alright, that’s fine with me.” So while men marrying animals doesn’t offend Holmes, a very small flag on a uniform does?

When initially hearing the Montgomery representative’s comments, I wasn’t aware the stars and bars were displayed on Trooper’s uniforms. Which I

thought to be odd, being that I possess a lead foot and have probably seen the grey and blue vehicles in my rearview more than I would have liked to.

The flag in question is very small, located on the state’s coat of arms, which was adopted in 1939 and added to the Department of Public Safety’s emblem in 1972.

Although it is on the emblem, it is also displayed with four other flags, all representing the nations that have held sovereignty over Alabama territory since it had been settled starting with France. A red, white, and blue shield is displayed in the center, obviously representing the current nation, the United States. The same coat of arms is also on many other emblems within the state government, including the board of Pardons & Paroles, the Securities Commission, and Department of Public Health, though this is the only one Holmes has seemed to notice.

While Holmes has been championing removing flags he notices and mule marrying, it makes me wonder how the people of District 78 are faring. Judging by the website, www.statisticalatlas.com, his district seems a little neglected.

Starting with unemployment, at 7.8%, his constituents are a full two percent higher than the rest of the state. This area is traditionally hurting for jobs, but being that Holmes has been in office for nearly forty years, this is traditionally his area.

While many lawmakers can blame their predecessors, it’s impossible when someone has been representing a district for so long. A good measure of poverty for an area is

the percentage of individuals on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program in a given area, or more commonly known as “food stamps,” being that people must be under a certain income threshold to qualify. An astounding 30.9% of District 78 residents are needing government assistance to eat.

Education has suffered as well, with three schools within his district being labeled as “failing” by the Alabama Accountability Act. Among only his African-American constituents, the unemployment rate is 11.8%. I’m sure that many find it more offensive that he doesn’t take their economic well being seriously more than a small, hardly noticeable flag.

While the shooting at a historically AfricanAmerican church was horrendous, there is no evidence that looking at a flag caused the shooter to feel the way he did. Even so, this has not stopped many politicians from trying to score easy political points by demanding its removal.

It’s much easier to pen a three sentence letter to the Governor than attack real problems and suffering for the people within Rep. Holmes’ district. This gives the illusion that he’s representing them well, when it’s really just a way of avoiding dealing with the difficult issues that have plagued this area for years.

For now, it seems that our state’s coat of arms will stay the same, much like man-mule relationships are still illegal, but unfortunately for the people of Mr. Holmes’ district, their economic situation will also go unchanged.

8

Friday–December 25, 2015

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

POLITICS

2016

Presidential Primary Update: 6 weeks until iowa

By Tyler Pruett tyler@southerntorch.com

With less than six weeks until the Iowa Caucuses and seven weeks until the presidential primaries in New Hampshire, the race for campaign cash and endorsements is coming down to the wire. Polling released this week shows that the front-runners for each party remain the same, but the numbers show noticeable change after each party held debates last week. On the Democratic side, Hillary

Clinton lost ground to Bernie Sanders, and on the Republican, Donald Trump remains the strong front runner.

However Sen. Ted Cruz has shown a meteoric rise in support, jumping to 24 percent according to Rasmussen. In postdebate news, sparring between the Clinton and Trump campaigns has turned ugly, with vulgar comments and unsubstantiated claims from both sides. The broad Republican field also narrowed slightly, with Sen. Lindsey Graham

dropping out, telling CNN that, “we’re going to have to start consolidating as Republicans.”

In last Tuesday’s Republican debate, much of the issues revolved around national security, surveillance, and immigration. Though most of the two hours were spent either criticizing Trump or Trump defending his own positions. While he faced criticism from virtually all his competitors on his controversial views, the real estate mogul conceded none. Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush led most of the attacks against Trump without seeing any significant gain in post debate polling. His campaign has experienced a steady decline in support throughout the last few months as it has struggled to maintain visibility among establishment Republicans while attacking anti-establishment candidates. Gov. Chris Christie, though maintaining low support, experienced a significant jump after a strong debate performance.

Senators Cruz and Rubio sparred on the issues of immigration and national security, with

Cruz seeing an increase in support after the debate.

Saturday night’s Democratic debate displayed much of the same issues brought up by the moderators, but the candidates themselves steering the conversation in a different direction. While questions were asked about national security, which has been foremost in importance to Americans, candidates addressed issues of income inequality, their own campaign financing, and also criticised the Republican front-runner over recent statements regarding barring Muslims from entering the United States. In her most memorable debate comment, Clinton stated on Trump, “They are going to people showing videos of Donald Trump insulting Islam and Muslims to recruit more radical jihadists.” The real estate mogul responded at a rally this week that, “she’s a liar and everyone knows that,” along with remarks that aren’t fitting to include in this article that many see as sexist.

Although no evidence of the Islamic State using Trump’s comments exist,

the Clinton Camp doubled down this week, but provided no evidence to substantiate her claims.

Quinnipiac released national polling this week showing not only support for candidates in their respective primaries, but also potential head-to-head matchups for the general election in November. While Trump has recently claimed that he’s beating Clinton in national polls, this new data shows him a full 7 percent behind the former Secretary of State.

Other Republicans fare much better, with Cruz tied with her at 44 percent and Rubio trailing her by 1 percent, at 44 to 43. When the same candidates are compared to Sanders, Trump trails him by an even higher 13 percent, while both Cruz and Rubio best the Vermont Senator within the margin of error. Fox News announced the final Republican debate, which will be taking place on January 28 at 8 p.m. Central Time, a mere four days before Iowa.

The two-hour debate will undoubtedly be the most important, as the Iowa Caucuses will be held the following Monday.

9

Friday–December 25, 2015

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

CRIME Date: 11/20/2015

dise was taken, valued at $84.72

Title: Press Release

5 Arrests

Posted By: Chief Randy Bynum

A 15 year old juvenile male of Fort Payne was arrested on a Juvenile Pick-Up Order at 1:55 am.

SUBJECT: Activity for November 16th thru November 20, 2015

Destiny Amber Rowell, age 27 of Fyffe, was arrested for Theft of Property at 3:37 pm.

Michael Anthony Bishop, age 23 of Fort Payne, was arrested for Domestic Violence, and Two Counts of Assault at 9:00 pm.

Monday November 16th Incidents Theft of Property – Occurred at Wal-Mart, 44 miscellaneous items were taken, valued at $1111.04 Theft of Property – Occurred at Wal-Mart, 5 pairs of panties, 2 NB Cami, and 1 NB Opp Cami were taken, valued at $24.38 Theft of Property – Occurred at Wal-Mart, a combination pack of lotion and cologne were taken, valued at $21.47 9 Arrests Christy Hudgins Taylor, age 37 of Fort Payne, was arrested on a Warrant for Outside Agency at 12:14 am.

Gary William Waldo, age 33 of Fort Payne, was arrested on a Warrant for Outside Agency at 2:11 pm.

Jamie Melissa Bethune, age 37 of Henagar, was arrested for Theft of Property at 2:59 pm.

Brittany Nashea Newman, age 28 of Valley Head, was arrested for Theft of Property at 4:17 pm.

Shannon Farrell Haggermaker, age 27 of Piedmont, was arrested for Public Intoxication and Possession of Marijuana at 5:29 pm.

Brandon Everett Phillips, age 43 of Fort Payne, was arrested for Possession of Synthetic Narcotics and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia at 6:03 pm.

Johnny Wayne Griggs, age 47 of Fort Payne, was arrested for Resisting Arrest at 6:14 pm.

Amy Jones Blevins, age 42 of Flat Rock, was arrested for Tampering with Evidence and Possession of Marijuana at 11:14 pm.

Shannon Farrell Haggermaker, age 27 of Piedmont, was arrested for Criminal Mischief at 10:05 pm.

Kevin Christopher Twilley, age 27 of Gaylesville, was arrested on Two Warrants for Domestic Violence at 11:03 pm.

Wendell Lee Carr, age 38 of Fort Payne, was arrested on Warrants for Fugitive from Justice and Criminal Littering at 11:33 pm.

3 Accidents with 0 Injuries

Wednesday November 18th 1 Arrest Roy Oliver Haston, age 60 of Rainsville, was arrested for Public Intoxication at 10:32 pm.

3 Accidents with 0 Injuries

Thursday November 19th Incidents Theft of Property – Occurred at Wal-Mart, assorted beauty products and clothing items were taken, valued at $131.74 6 Arrests Jimmy Floyd Filmore, age 49 of Attalla, was arrested for Public Intoxication at 12:47 pm.

Christie Michelle Judge, age 45 of Boaz, was arrested for Public Intoxication at 12:47 pm.

Kelly Ann Barnes, age 18 of Fort Payne, was arrested for Theft of Property, Possession of Controlled Substance and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia at 12:22 pm.

1 Accident with 0 Injuries

Rebecca Ann Wallace, age 18 of Fort Payne, was arrested for Theft of Property, Possession of Controlled Substance, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia at 12:22 pm.

Tuesday November 17th

Tammie Lynette Waller, age 52 of Rainsville, was arrested for Theft of Property at 4:07 pm.

Incidents

3 Accidents with 1 Injury

Damaged Vehicle – Occurred at 800 Glenn Blvd SW, a front fender on a 1999 Lexus 300 was damaged, valued at $100.00

An accident occurred at Glenn Blvd SW and Medical Center Drive SW, Calvin Franklin Roberts, age 73 of Pisgah, driving a 1997 Buick Park Avenue, struck Buddy Wayne Hindman, age 39 of Cedar Bluff, driving a 2014 GMC Savana. Passenger in the Buick, Edna Faye Roberts, age 68 of Pisgah was transported to Dekalb Regional by Dekalb Ambulance Service.

Damaged Vehicle – Occurred at 44th Street NE, a mirror on a Chevrolet Trail Blazer was damaged, valued at $250.00 Theft of Property – Occurred at Wal-Mart, miscellaneous merchan-

OBITUARIES Infant Felicia Vivianna Goins Daughter of Tiffany and Robert Goins of Rainsville, passed away at DeKalb Regional Hospital. Funeral Service will be 4 P.M. Friday, Dec. 18, 2015 graveside at Macedonia Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Friday, Dec. 18, 2015 from 2-3:30 P.M. at W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel.

Survivors: Parents- Robert Lee & Tiffany Nicole Goins; Grandparents- Wendell & Teresa Goins, Mark Wright & Daphne Foster Arrangements Entrusted to W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel

Mrs. Jeanette White Coons Age 93 of Rainsville passed away Friday, Dec. 18, 2015 at her residence.

Funeral services will be held at 1 P.M. - Tuesday, Dec. 22, 2015 from the W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with Dr. Kevin McCreless & Rev. Brenda Swain officiating. Burial will follow in Corinth Cemetery with

W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel in charge.

The family will receive friends from 6 till 8 P.M. Monday Survivors: (daughters) Betty Moak, of Rainsville, Barbara & C.A. Frees, of Rainsville; (grandchildren) James Moak, Virginia & Lisa Whiting, David (Monica) Frees, Tracie (Mark) Jones; (great grandchildren) Amy Whiting & Ashleigh Blandin, Joshua & Hannah Frees; (great great grandchildren) Elizabeth Gibson, Garrett Blandin; (brothers) Cecil (Ruby Jo) Wilks, Austin (Margaret) Wilks, Lillie May Mrs. Coons was preceded in death by her husbands - Garrett White and Arthur Coons; Son Billy Ray White; Son in Law Harold Edward Moak

Mrs. Betty J. Brown

W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel Minister: Rev. David Presley

Ministers: Rev. Richard Bruce Rev. Lee Earl Thompson

Burial: Mt. Zion Cemetery

Burial: Gant Cemetery

Visitation: 6 till 8 P.M. (Sunday)

(with Military Honors to follow)

Survivors: (Husband) Richard Brown; (Sons) Rodney and Donna Hutcheson, Barry and Linda Hutcheson; (sisters) Nora and Ann; (brother) Ray; (grandchildren) Nathan ( C h a r i t y) Hutcheson, Ashley (Ryan) Brewer, Dan (Brandi) Hutcheson, Dawn (Shannon) Paschal; 4 great grandchildren; 1 step grandchild; 1 step great grandchild

Visitation: 4 till 9 P.M. (Monday)

Mrs. Brown was preceded in death by a (Husband) George A. Hutcheson

Rev. Otis Gant Age 91 of Fyffe passed away Saturday, Dec. 19, 2015 at his residence.

Age 87 of Scottsboro passed away Saturday, Dec. 19, 2015 in Cloverdale Health Care.

Funeral: 2:30 P.M. Tuesday, Dec. 22, 2015

Funeral: 11A.M. - Monday, Dec. 21, 2015

(with masonic service to follow)

W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel

Survivors: (daughter) Patricia “Ann” Gant of Fyffe; (brother) Eugene Gant of Arizonia; Numerous Nieces and Nephews Rev. Gant was preceded in death by his (Wife) Louise Gant, He was a Veteran of World War II and the Korean War. He was also a Mason and member of the Eastern Star.

Mr. James William Bachelor, Jr. Age 77 of Rainsville, AL died Thursday, Dec. 17, 2015 at his residence.

Funeral services will be held Sunday, Dec. 20, 2015 at 1 P.M. from Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel.

Burial will follow in Old Sardis Holiness Church Cemetery. Visitation will

Friday, Dec. 18th from 2 P.M.-8 P.M.; Saturday, Dec. 19th from 10 A.M.-8 P.M.; Sunday, Dec. 20th from 9 A.M.-1 P.M. Survivors include: Wife: Ramona Bachelor of Rainsville, AL; 1 Son: William Bachelor and wife Questa of Flat Rock, AL; 1 Brother: Joe Alvie Bachelor of Cedar Bluff, AL; 1 Sister: Vera Moss of Nebraska; 3 Grandchildren: Gage Bachelor, Kendon Bachelor & Jace Bachelor. Preceded in Death: 2 Sons: Christopher John Bachelor & Justin Case Bachelor; Mother: Edna Bachelor Gautney; Father: James William Bachelor, Sr.; 3 Brothers & 3 Sisters.

Visitation: Rainsville Funeral Home, Inc. Friday, Dec. 18th from 2 P.M.-8 P.M. Saturday, Dec. 19th from 10 A.M.-8 P.M. Sunday, Dec. 20th from 9 A.M.-1 P.M. Services: Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel Sunday, Dec. 20, 2015 at 1 P.M. Interment: Old Sardis Holiness Church Cemetery Following Service

10

Friday–December 25, 2015

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Sand Mountain Tournament Winners

Geraldine Varsity Boys won the Sand Mountain Tournament, Saturday night. Members of the team are: Colby Lee Mincey, Austin Willoughby, Avery Byars, Brady Gildbert, Bret Armstrong, Luis Ivan Benitez, Christian Sparkman, Justin Murphy, Jordan Sisk, Aaron Staton. Luke Maddox, Cade White, Anthony Richey.

The Pisgah Lady Eagles beat the North Sand Mountain Bisons to win the Sand Mountain Tournament, Saturday night. Members of the team are: Alanna Paschal, Annie Hughes, Bailey Law, Brooklyn Frost, Chloe Womack, Emily White, Hannah Weaver, Jade Moore, Macy Anderson, Mikayla McClendon, Peggy Roden, Presley Higdon, Presley Johnson, Shelby Lacy, Savannah Mason.

The Geraldine B-Team/Junior Varsity won the Sand Mountain Tournament, Saturday night. Members of the team are as follows: Brody Henderson, Jesse Pittman, Jordan Cookston, Marshall Sparkman, Matthew Malone, Rey Hernandez, Thomas Willoughby, William Johnson.

Geraldine Bulldogs win Geraldine defeats tournament in overtime Plainview

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

Geraldine 54Section 48

RAINSVILLE, Ala.— Geraldine defeated Section in overtime to win the Sand Mountain

Tournament, Saturday night. Geraldine led by 2 going into the second quarter. Section tied the game 20-20 going into the half. Section led by one at the end of the third quarter, Score was 32-31. The fourth quarter

was intense play with Geraldine taking the lead. With less than a minute in regulation play, Noah Crawford of Section, shot to tie the score 43-43.

Going into overtime, it was a back and forth fight between two teams who refused to lose. Cade White, rebounded and hit a three pointer to win the game.

The Southern Torch Standout is Cade White.

White finished with 19 points for Geraldine. He was also named the Sand Mountain Tournament Team Most Valuable Player.

Justin Murphy had 16 points for the Bulldogs followed by Colby Lee Mincey with 10.

For Section, Noah Crawford finished with 14 points. He was followed closely behind by Caleb Haynes and Caleb Henshaw with 11 points.

NSM edges past Sylvania

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

Geraldine 73Plainview 48

Geraldine defeated Plainview Friday night, to move on to the finals of the Sand Mountain Tournament.

Plainview trailed by 5 at the end of the first quarter. Going into halftime, Geraldine had the 38-24 lead. They were able to maintain the lead for the remainder of the game. At the end of the third, Geraldine led 57-34 and closed out the game with a final score of 73-48.

Colby Lee Mincey scored 19 points.

Anthony Richey had 12 points. Bret Armstrong and Cade White both had 10 points for the Geraldine Bulldogs.

Jeffery Armstrong led the Plainview Bears with 19 points. He hit five 3’s.

Clay Cooper also scored in the double digits with 12 points.

The Southern Torch Standout Award goes to Anthony Richey of Geraldine. The 6’10”, 319 pound player made several game changers with his intense domination during the game.

All Tournament Team–Varsity Boys

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

North Sand Mtn 73Sylvania 65 RAINSVILLE, Ala.— North Sand Mountain edged past Sylvania to advance to the finals of the Sand Mountain Tournament, Thursday night.

The Lady Bisons and the Lady Rams were tied

12-12 in the first quarter of the game. Going into the half, Sylvania led 29-27. At the end of the third, NSM had regained strength and had the 44-36 lead over the Rams.

During the fourth quarter, Sylvania scored 29 points but North Sand Mountain answered back with 29 points, also.

Time ran out for the Rams. Final North Sand

Mountain 73, Sylvania 65.

Morgan Frazier led the Rams with 26 points.

Jennifer Sweeting had 15 points. Lauren King followed with 12 points for the game.

NSM advanced on to face the Pisgah Eagles, in the finals of the Sand Mountain Tournament, Saturday night,

MVP-Cade White, Geraldine; Cole Heard, Pisgah; Jay Shirey, Pisgah; Jeffery Armstrong, Plainview; Clay Cooper, Plainview; Caleb Roebuck, Sylvania; Noah Crawford, Section; Colby Mincer, Geraldine; Caleb Haynes, Section; Austin Willoughby, Geraldine; Caleb Henshaw, Section

11

Friday–December 25, 2015

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

All Tournament Team–Varsity Girls

HUNTER OF THE WEEK! Jax Smith took down this 5-pointer, Saturday. Jax is the son of Luke and Candi Smith of Sylvania. Jax is ten years old and in the fourth grade at Sylvania School. Submit your hunting photos for your chance to be The Southern Torch Hunter of the Week!

Submit your hunting photos to marla@southerntorch.com

MVP- Presley Johnson, Pisgah; Cassidy McDaniel, Crossville; Makenzie Hughes, Ider; Morgan Frazier, Sylvania; Lauren King, Sylvania; Presley Higdon, Pisgah; Emily White, Pisgah; Annie Hughes, Pisgah; Brianna Davis, North Sand Mountain; Summer Boatfield, North Sand Mountain

First State Bank Shootout

FAN OF THE WEEK! Congratulations, Mark Richards!

The Plainview Bears will host the First Annual First State Bank Shootout, starting December 28, 2015. Plainview Head Coach, Robi Coker is thrilled to host this event, “ With our facilities and community support, we are excited to host this Holiday Tournament. We have brought in teams who are tradition-rich in basketball. I am looking forward to hosting a first class event.”

The Southern Torch Fan of the Week is Mark Richards.

Mark is a board Member for the Dekalb County Board of Education. Mark is always supporting the schools in his area. Submit your photos to Southern Torch and you could be the next Southern Torch Fan of the Week!

Long Ranch 4 Boys Host Tournament

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

FYFFE, Ala.— Paul and Kristy Long of Antioch, were sitting at a movie years ago, when Paul felt the calling to help children in need.

Paul said God spoke to him and he wanted to be obedient to that calling.

He came home and started to do research.

He found out that one out of three people were raising family members.

The Long family wanted to minister to boys, ages 5-18 who needed help in difficult situations. After much prayer, the Long Ranch 4 Boys was established. The Long Ranch 4 Boys vision is to provide at risk boys with a solid family structure.

One that will love and encourage them and to help equip them to become Godly men in

their communities and in their own homes.

Proverbs 22:6 “train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.”

The Long Ranch 4 Boys, broke ground to build a home for up to twelve boys and two house parents a year ago.

Within the next week, the house will be completely finished and completely debt free. The House parents will move to the new home in January and open applications for the boys will start in March.

All of this was made possible thru donations, The Old Timers Football Game and the Old Timers Basketball Tournament.

The Second Annual Sand Mountain All-Star Old Timers Basketball Tournament will start at 10:00 a.m., December 26, 2015 at the Fyffe High

School New Gym. There will be seventeen teams and over 160 players.

This tournament is one of the largest basketball tournaments in the State of Alabama.

The Games will continue, January 1, 2016 at Fyffe, starting at 11:00.

The Finals will be held at the Dekalb County Schools Coliseum at 10:00, Saturday, January 2, 2016. The Championship games will start at 5:00 p.m.

During halftime, of the Championship Games, fans can enjoy a knocker ball game.

As you are sitting around with family and friends during the holidays, please make your plans to come support this great mission. Admission is $5 per person. Children 5 and under are free.

Geraldine Junior High Christmas Holiday Tournament Monday Dec. 28 9:00 10:05 11:10 12:15 1:20 2:25

New Gym Geraldine 9th Sylvania 9th Fyffe 7th Sardis 7th Fyffe 8th Sardis 8th Plainview 7th Boaz 7th Plainview 8th Boaz 8th Plainview 9th Brindlee Mtn. 9th

Old Gym Asbury 9th Henagar 7th Henagar 8th Geraldine 8th Geraldine 7th

Fyffe 9th Asbury 7th Asbury 8th Arab 8th Section 7th

Tuesday Dec. 29 9:00 10:05 11:10 12:15 1:20 2:25 3:30

New Gym Sylvania 9th Fyffe 9th DAR 7th Fyffe 7th DAR 8th Fyffe 8th Arab 8th Plainview 8th Brindlee Mtn. 9th Geraldine 9th Boaz 7th Geraldine 7th Boaz 8th Geraldine 8th

Old Gym Asbury 9th Asbury 7th Asbury 8th Plainview 7th Section 8th

Plainview 9th Sardis 7th Sardis 8th Henagar 7th Henagar 8th

Wednesday Dec. 30 New Gym 9:00 Sylvania 9th Asbury 9th 10:05 Section 8th Asbury 8th 11:10 Fyffe 7th Asbury 7th 12:15 Fyffe 8th Arab 8th 1:20 Sardis 7th Plainview 7th 2:25 Sardis 8th Plainview 8th 3:30 Geraldine 9th Plainview 9th

Old Gym Brindlee Mtn. 9th Fyffe 9th Geraldine 7th DAR 7th Geraldine 8th DAR 8th Henagar 7th Boaz 7th Henagar 8th Boaz 8th

*First team listed will be home team and wear white uniforms

12

Friday–December 25, 2015

THE SOUTHERN TORCH