The Southern Torch, Vol. 2, No. 10

THE SOUTHERN TORCH / FRIDAY, MARCH 4, 2016 / VOL. 2, NO. 10 / $1.00

COMMUNITY

FAITH

SPORTS

FORGING FRIENDSHIPS, CHANGING LIVES

TRANSFORMER

HEARTBREAKING LOSS FOR THE IDER LADY HORNETS

Barnett defeats Taylor in Superintendent Primary > PAGE 3

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By Joseph M. Morgan joseph@southerntorch.com

DEKALB COUNTY, Ala.— In perhaps the most highly anticipated race on the ballot for DeKalb County residents on Super Tuesday, Dr. Jason Barnett defeated incumbent and current DeKalb County Schools Superintendent Hugh Taylor in the Republican Primary race for superintendent.

Barnett took 70 percent of the vote and swept the county, winning convincingly at each of the 42 polling locations where voters chose their candidate for

Dr. Jason Barnett giving his acceptance speech

DeKalb Superintendent.

Voter turnout was high in DeKalb, even for a presidential primary.

Election officials said that they believed that the superintendent race played a large factor in the increased voter turnout. With 11,171 total votes cast in the race, Barnett received 7,118 votes to Taylor’s 3,157 votes.

“We could not be more excited,” Barnett said. “We ran a race based on issues that I think were very important to DeKalb County voters.

And I will remember those voters and keep the promises I made to

The “SEC Primary” delivers on expectations

By Tyler Pruett tyler@southerntorch.com

ALABAMA, USA— This presidential primary was one unlike any other in recent memory for our state. Alabama saw visits from every major

candidate of both parties.

While candidates have visited in past nomination processes, normally visits are infrequent and mainly focus on fundraising. Having private fundraisers generates much needed

campaign cash, but these events are exclusive, and don’t engage the everyday primary voter.

The SEC Primary was the product of rare collaboration between two state-level elected officials. Brian Kemp

(R-GA) and John Merrill (R-AL), both serving as secretaries of state, sought to increase attention needed to win the whole region. This would better engage

RAINSVILLE, Ala.— The DeKalb County School Board announced at a school board meeting last week that former Fyffe Head basketball Coach Neal Thrash will receive a court-ordered hearing before the board on March 17 to discuss the circumstances surrounding his dismissal as Fyffe’s coach in April 2014.

Ninth Circuit Judge Jeremy Taylor ruled last month that Thrash be

granted a hearing before the full board of the to discuss the events leading up to his dismissal. Judge Taylor ruled that Thrash should have been given the opportunity of a hearing before the full board.

Superintendent Hugh Taylor dismissed Thrash as Fyffe’s head coach, citing allegations of misconduct and bullying that he said were uncovered by an internal investigation following one of the most successful seasons in school history.

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Superintendent Taylor placed Thrash on administrative leave.

Traditionally, such a matter would be taken before the full board of DeKalb County Schools for a hearing, allowing the employee in question an opportunity to defend themselves and have their voice heard. As he was not given such an opportunity, Thrash filed a civil suit against the superintendent and the BOE for improperly placing him on leave and depriving him of the right to a hearing before

THIS WEEK IN COMMUNITY

Hammonds lands Grammy nomination David Hammonds is a sound engineer in Fort Payne.

Hammonds was nominated for a Grammy this pas week in California for his engineering on his project with Norman Blake…

Page 3

CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

Thrash BOE hearing set for March 17

By Joseph M. Morgan joseph@southerntorch.com

them.”

With Barnett’s securing of the GOP nomination for superintendent, he will face Democrat DeKalb County educator Bill Monroe in the general election on Nov. 4, 2016. Monroe has served as an educator in the county for more than 30 years and ran against Hugh Taylor in 2012, so his name is recognizable among DeKalb County voters.

In the weeks leading up to the November election, Southern Torch will provide comprehensive profiles of Monroe and Barnett.

the board.

Judge Taylor also presided over the original case in 2014, Thrash vs.

DeKalb County BOE. After hearing the case, Judge Taylor ruled that Thrash was improperly suspended gave an order that he be given a full hearing before the board and set an official hearing date for Nov. 17, 2014.

BOE attorneys immediately filed an appeal to the Alabama Supreme Court, asking for a dismissal and delaying any court CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

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

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

THIS WEEK IN POLITICS

Senate Passes Balanced $1.8 Billion General Fund Budget Framework

The Alabama Senate passed a lean $1.8 billion budget this week for the State General Fund (SGF), the budget for all non-education state spending.

The Fiscal Year 2017 (FY17) budget level-funds most state agencies, including state troopers and Corrections, and contains no tax increases.

“This is a tough but workable budget for the people of Alabama…

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THIS WEEK IN SPORTS

Section Lions fall to Lanett Panthers

The No. 4 ranked Section Lions were defeated by No. 1 Lanett Panthers 72-59 in the Class 2A State Tournament Semifinals at the BJCC Legacy Arena Monday night.

The Section Lions made their ninth appearance at the state playoffs and the first since 2006.

Lanett jumped to the early lead in the first with a 3-pointer by Jalen Madden…

Page 10 PRESORTED STANDARD MAIL U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

PERMIT NO. 60 RAINSVILLE, AL

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Friday–March 4, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Publisher, Joseph M. Morgan Layout editor, Dwayne Adams

Public Service Announcement THE DEKALB COUNTY FEDERAL PROGRAMS

ADVISORY COMMITTEE WILL MEET MONDAY, MARCH 7 AT 8:30 AM AND 5:00 PM AT THE DEKALB COUNTY TECHNOLOGY CENTER IN RAINSVILLE, ALABAMA DURING THE MEETING, THE COMMITTEE WILL REVIEW CURRENT FEDERALLY FUNDED PROGRAMS AND THEIR PROGRESS. THE COMMITTEE WILL PROVIDE INPUT REGARDING GOALS AND ACTIONS FOR FEDERAL FUNDS DURING THE 2016-2017 SCHOOL YEAR. THIS MEETING IS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC YOU MAY ATTEND AT THE TIME THAT IS MOST CONVENIENT PLEASE CONTACT JASON MAYFIELD OR KRISTIE PHILLIPS AT 256-638-6921 FOR MORE INFORMATION

Community leaders throughout DeKalb starring in Krazy Kudzu Follies

By Staff Reports

The Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce began Krazy Kudzu Follies this week.

The show runs March 3-5 at the DeKalb Theatre in Fort Payne at 7 p.m. Krazy Kudzu follies will feature a host of community leaders and elected officials.

“The 80+ cast members have really worked hard to insure the success of this “fun-raising” event,” Fort

Payne Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Carol Beddingfield said. “I promise you will leave with lifted spirits but with a sore face from laughing!!!”

Come support these community leaders. Tickets are $15 each or 2 for $20.

Tickets are available at the chamber office or Fort Payne Bruce’s Foodland.

Urethane Supply Company rebrands as Polyvance RAINSVILLE, Ala.— Urethane Supply Company recently held a special event to commemorate a new business name. The company will now be known as “Polyvance.”

“As we celebrate our 35th anniversary this year, we are proud to announce a change in the name of our business to “Polyvance” effective March 1st. The change in name reflects the

progression that has occurred in automotive plastics since our company’s inception. We wanted a name that speaks to our main mission, which is advancing the technology of polymer repair.”

Advancing Polymer Repair” is the official tagline and the inspiration for the name “Polyvance.” Polyvance will continue to be devoted entirely to

Company President Kurt Lammon, pictured above with company founder Jim Sparks, and Jim’s wife Geraldine

helping body shops profit from plastic repair and refinishing through its innovative products and training.

“This is an exciting day for Urethane Supply

Company—newly christened as “Polyvance”—and great for the city of Rainsville,” Mayor Nick Jones said.

“This company has been an important part of our

city for many years and continues to provide jobs for our citizens. We are grateful for all they do and celebrate this new chapter in their business along with Polyvance.”

Continued from page 1

Thrash BOE hearing set for March 17 proceedings pending the higher court’s decision. It would take almost an entire year for the Alabama Supreme Court to make their ruling, eventually dismissing the BOE’s appeal in late 2015.

The case was recently sent back to Judge Taylor in the Ninth Circuit

where he heard oral arguments from attorneys on both sides last week in a summary judgement proceeding.

After hearing arguments from each side, after almost two years of legal wrangling and waiting, Judge Taylor announced that his

original ruling would stand and Thrash would be given the opportunity to state his case before the full BOE. If the board rules in his favor on March 17, Thrash could be reinstated immediately as Fyffe’s head coach.

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Friday–March 4, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

COMMUNITY

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

Forging friendships, changing lives

By Joseph M. Morgan joseph@southerntorch.com

It is late January 2016 and an odd scene is unfolding in the small village of Bamba. It is 90 degrees on this day.

Located just southeast of the equator on the continent of Africa outside the city of Campola, Uganda, it is always hot in Bamba.

Despite the heat of the midday sun, men are hard at work on this day.

A melodic rhythm rings out through the dirt roads of the village. In a steep swinging arc, Jesse Hemphill slams a blacksmith’s hammer against a white-hot iron bar with alarming force.

Clang! The sound reverberates throughout the makeshift open air hut that provides shade and cover for a working blacksmith’s forge.

Hemphill pauses to flip an ugly strip of iron with metal tongs as four young men stand around

him looking on with an obvious sense of admiration.

Clang! Clang! Clang!

He swings the hammer over and over again, striking malleable iron against unforgiving anvil. His leather apron and gloves are coated in dark soot. Two paces to his left, a 2,000-degree adds to the heat of the day as his forehead beads with perspiration. As glowing metal fades to black, Hemphill returns the iron bar to the forge to repeat the heating process. Moments later sparks fly again, and the sound of metal crashing into metal regains its familiar rhythm.

Gradually the strip of ugly raw iron begins to take shape. Utilizing an unlikely combination of power and precision, Hemphill creates something beautiful, something unique. He has created a work of art.

Hemphill was doing

what blacksmiths have been doing for 3,500 years on that January afternoon: shaping raw metal into something of value. What makes his story unique is that he is using the ancient trade to bridge a gap between two vastly different cultures.

His purpose in Africa was for the benefit of the young men standing around him. Hemphill traveled to Bamba earlier this year to teach the men a trade unburdened by the technological requirements many modern jobs rely on in the western world. With the use of only a few basic tools and materials, the ancient trade of blacksmithing will provide the men of Bamba a livelihood to provide for their families and bring hope to an area that endured almost 20 years of devastation through war and disease throughout the 1980’s and 1990’s.

Through government instability and the AIDs epidemic that brought war and death to Bamba, an entire generation was virtually wiped out.

Almost 70 percent of the people in the small village are under the age of 36. There is almost no work available to the men and women there—only 30 percent of the population is employed.

Metalworking using the traditional blacksmithing technique is a perfect fit for the village of Bamba. The process has not changed much over the 3,500 years of the trade’s existence.

Metal is heated over a flame until it becomes pliable. It is then placed on an anvil and beat into the desired shape with a hammer. So despite the seemed oddity of seeing a lone white man from Skirum, Alabama teaching an ancient trade to men in an African

village, the value of Hemphill’s contribution there is immeasurable.

Centuries ago, one could find a blacksmith in almost every village in the western world. In early American settlements, blacksmiths, often called the “village smithy,” reverted to providing a variety of metal products and services. The blacksmith’s shop, which usually also served as the local hardware store, was not geared for making CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

Hammonds lands Grammy nomination

Photos by Christi Carroll

By Karah Wilson karah@southerntorch.com

FORT PAYNE, Ala.— David Hammonds is a sound engineer in Fort Payne. Hammonds was nominated for a Grammy this past week in California for his engineering on his project with Norman Blake, “Wood, Wire, & Words.”

“The project was nominated for Folk Album Of The Year,” Hammonds said. “Let me be clear. It was

Norman’s nomination.

However, since I engineered 100 percent of it, I would also receive a Grammy statue. I recorded it, mixed it, and mastered it all at Cook Sound Studios and Songbird Studios. James Barnes assisted in the mastering but was not eligible for the nomination because it’s based on percentage of work.”

“I was at Norman and Nancy Blake’s home having coffee and discussing a

future project. Just as I was about to leave Norman said, ‘Oh, by the way we made the long list at the Grammy’s,’” Hammonds said. “He said it like it was nothing. I asked him what that meant and he said ‘not much’ and I laughed.

Norman then explained, ‘It really matters though to make the short list’ which means the top five. Norman told me ‘that’s a win.’”

“When I got to California, I felt blessed!

Extremely blessed! For those who know me know of the personal tragedies I have endured to get here,” Hammonds said. “I will not go into my private life but will tell you God has been so very real to me in the last year and a half. I never ever want to be out from under the shadow of His wing.”

Unfortunately while in California, Hammonds did not win the award. The award went to Belá Fleck and Abigail Washburn. “To echo Norman, ‘it’s a win to be on the short list,’” Hammonds said. “Norman said let some else win, ‘They’re young. It will help their career.’ He now has nine nominations and one Grammy for ‘O’brother Where Art Thou?’”

“Honestly, I am self motivated. I go at this craft with a positive, go for it attitude, and a plan to

succeed. My life motto is from Sir Winston Churchill, ‘Never give up!’ Hammonds said. “It’s the people I work with. The talent, the respect, the love of great music, my family, and my church family that keeps me going. For me this was a pat on the back from a loving God telling me to run the race and fight the fight.

People will try to discourage you sometimes but you have to realize the call on your life and who is in control. I was told last year that my mistress was my love of music, the studio, and I had placed this above God. Nothing could be farther from the truth. God placed this gift in me that I might glorify Him. I hope people can see that. My name is David for a reason!”

“I’m still the same guy. I think it did more good for people to see me dressed in a tux on Facebook than anything. I’m a blue jeans boy but I can clean up,” Hammonds laughed. “I want this event in my life to be an encouragement in the lives of others to keep dreaming and to plan to succeed. It’s a lifelong journey. I began playing guitar at six years old so I’ve been at this for a while. I could name many people more deserving than myself for this recognition many have been at it longer. I was

Photos by Christi Carroll

at the right place at the right time.”

“I leave your readers with this: Write down your goals and make a plan. Pray without ceasing. Then work the plan. If you miss a goal it’s not failure. It’s a bump in the road. Never take your eye off the prize. When life throws you a curveball wait for it, then hit it out of the park,” Hammonds said.

“Keep a good attitude as much as possible. When you’re down, talk to someone who will lift you up. Surround yourself with positive, honest people who will challenge your point of view, not ‘yes’ people! God doesn’t dwell on the negative because He sees us all through the blood of Jesus. I know it’s tough sometimes but you’ve proved yourself a survivor.

You can and will achieve your goals. Never give up!”

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Friday–March 4, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

COMMUNITY

Renowned local artist sets up shop in The Spot!

Hale in his new workspace in the upstairs loft.

By Tyler Pruett tyler@southerntorch.com

FORT PAYNE, Ala— The large, hand-painted sign that hangs above Gault Avenue marking Fort Payne’s favorite coffee shop has quickly become synonymous with the revitalization efforts in the downtown area. The artist responsible for this work and the other unique, hand painted signage that adorns most of the businesses along Gault is none other than Chris Hale.

Justin Sweeney, owner and operator of The Spot, is proud to announce that Hale has set up shop in the upstairs loft of his restaurant. From the menu that hangs above the counter, to the advertising on the windows as you enter from Gault ave, The Spot already displays much of his work.

Since the coffee shop’s opening, Hale’s work has been as much a part of the business as it’s iconic building and location.

“We’ve prospered greatly from Chris’ work, and we’re happy to make him a part of our business now,” Sweeney said.

“Just in the couple of weeks we’ve had Chris

doing his work in here, we’ve already benefitted from the traffic looking for the sign painter,” he added.

Hale has years of experience in custom, hand-crafted signage. “All of my friends will tell you that I’m old school,” Hale said proudly. Not all that long ago, before the age of graphic design and laser printing, all billboards and advertisements were hand-painted by a specialized craftsman.

While modern technology has made producing visual advertising easier, the unique styling of advertising created by different artist has been lost.

In the era of the hand-painted signage, many small towns only had one sign painter, with their own distinctive style. This would give the whole “mainstreet” area it’s own common theme. While this was lost with time in most towns, Fort Payne is lucky enough to have a talented artist to continue this tradition, giving the town it’s own style itself.

But Hale’s work extends further than just northeast Alabama. “I’ve painted signage all over the country,” he noted, “from

California, all the way to North Carolina.”

Hale can not only paint custom signage, but is also known for his woodworking. “He also makes beautiful, hand-crafted hickory furniture,” Sweeney said. “Chris and his sons collect the needed wood straight from the northeast Alabama forest,” he added.

Hale’s work fits perfectly into the overall theme of The Spot. “I want everything in the shop; from the food, to the coffee, and even art on the wall to be handcrafted as well as unique,” Sweeney said with a smile.

Hale’s work has marked “The Spot” since it’s opening.

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THE SOUTHERN TORCH

COMMUNITY

3/4/16 upcoming events March 3-5:

Krazy Kudzu FolliesThis event offers you the opportunity to see community leaders take the stage to perform random acts so silly they leave the audience breathless with laughter.

Sponsored by the Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce and held at the DeKalb Theatre.

Begins at 6 p.m. Tickets are $15 per person or 2 for $20. Contact 256-845-2741 for more information.

March 3-4:

Lions Club Rodeo- The Rainsville Lions Club will be hosting its annual

rodeo at the Northeast Alabama Agri Business Center. The rodeo will consist of bareback riding, team roping, barrel racing and bull riding. Admission for adults is $12, children $7, and 5 and under free.

Contact 256-638-1650 for more information.

inside the Dekalb County Schools Coliseum. Doors open at 6 p.m. Adult admission is $15. Free tickets for children 14 and under with the purchase of adult ticket are available at some area stores.

March 5:

Finders Keepers Spring/Summer Consignment Sale- You will find gently used, good quality name brand children and adult clothing and shoes, home furnishings, electronics, books, toys, furniture and more, all at great prices. Sign up now to

Hot Chocolate 5k and Fun Run- hosted by FPHS track and field team. 5K begins at 8 a.m. and fun run begins at 9 a.m.

March 5:

Fantazia circus- 7 p.m.

March 12-19:

become a consignor. This will be held at the VFW Fairgrounds. Special presale hours for consignors.

Contact 256-632-2420 or 256-638-5998 for more information.

March 19:

Heil Community Easter Egg Hunt- Begins at 11 a.m.

March 20:

Agri-Business Center.

Call (256) 605-1801 for booth sponsorship.

March 26:

RTI’s Easter Egg Hunt1 p.m. at RTI, 189 RTI Drive in Rainsville. Free Admission. Bring your own Easter basket

March 26:

Southern Home and Family Show- Hosted at the Northeast Alabama

Jackson County Cruisers and Wheels of Time Cruisers- Indoor benefit car show and swap meet. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Northeast Alabama Agri-Business Center in Rainsville. Free admission for spectators.

said that while he felt a bit like a fish out of water at the beginning of his first trip, it wasn’t long before he found common ground and became comfortable in Bamba.

“You realize that our cultures are different and the color of our skin is different, but we also have a lot in common,” Hemphill said. “The first thing is, you get colorblind real quick. We didn’t see a lot of other white people there, but I don’t even think about that now. You come to realize that the people there are just like us.

They have hopes and dreams and the need to make a living just like we do, and if I can be a part of helping them improve their lives I’m happy to do it.”

Now that he is back in the states, Hemphill has returned to his routine— teaching by day and making knives by night.

Hemphill said he makes about 200-250 knives per year that are hand-forged with Damascus Steel and made to order. “I make a lot of different types of knives—from straight knives to utility neck knives, to Bowie knives and survival knives,” Hemphill said. “They’re all hand-forged, using Damascus steel. It’s different layers of steel stacked up and heated and hammered together.

We use different contrasts of metals because the alloys all react differently to the

etching and it brings out swirls of different colors in the blade.”

Hemphill estimates that he has probably made about 3,500 knives since he forged his first blade in 1986, but that number will soon increase dramatically. He recently partnered with a knife manufacturer who recruited Hemphill to put his signature touch on high-production line of knives that Hemphill will design and handassemble. The line will feature about 10 knives—from small knives up to big camp Bowies.

“This is what I love doing, Hemphill said. “I’d rather forge than eat.

That’s how much I love hammering steel. It’s crazy. There’s just something about the magic of it from stretching a piece and completely changing the shape into something that people see value in.”

Hemphill said he hopes that he will be able to make another trip to Bamba sometime in the near future. In the meantime he will continue his work as an educator and doing what he loves most—forging steel into objects of value and beauty. To see more of Hemphill’s knife work or hear more about his trips to Africa, visit him on Facebook at www. facebook.com/ HemphillKnives.

Dogtown Fire Department BBQ Dinner- Begins at 11 a.m.

March 18-20:

Continued from page 3

Forging friendships one particular type of product. The American blacksmith had to be capable of doing it all.

Blacksmiths forged tools, nails, hinges and other building materials.

Americans depended on blacksmiths for their very survival. Metal implements were so valuable, when early American settlers would build a house and use nails, if they moved, they would burn the house to save the nails so that they could take them with them. Blacksmithing in America continued to prosper greatly until the industrial revolution. By the late 1800’s, railroads linked the country, and hardware was mass produced in factories to be sold in hardware stores and general stores and blacksmithing slowly faded away into obscurity. Today it is almost a lost art. Much like film photography that requires photos to be processed with chemicals in a darkroom, or master printers who set type by hand and use a printing press to stamp out elaborate scripts on paper, very few have the skillset to do what Hemphill does.

Blacksmithing is not Hemphill’s only passion.

He has worked as an educator with DeKalb County Schools for 16 years. It was the combination of his experience at the forge and in the classroom that made him such a good candidate for the trip.

Hemphill’s trips to Uganda have been

organized by The Reckoning International, a Christian based non-profit organization with projects in third world countries across the globe. The Reckoning focuses on improving the lives of the povertystricken through education initiatives, skills training and providing access to basic resources that allow the people they help to learn a trade and create a sustainable living for themselves.

January marked Hemphill’s third trip to Bamba. The circumstances that led him to take the first journey to Africa make for an inspirational story. He said he was contacted in 2013 by a novice blacksmith who had been involved in helping with other projects led by The Reckoning. Hemphill, who has significant notoriety as a master knife maker and a strong following on social media, said the man who contacted him was familiar with his work through Facebook.

“Tim Troyer, the head of The Reckoning was at a conference and he was talking with the guy who ended up asking me to be a part of the trip to Africa,” Hemphill said.

“He said Tim was having a conversation with him, not even knowing about his background in blacksmithing. Tim was telling him about the idea for the project in Bamba and told him about the plan to start teaching these guys how to use

blacksmithing to make knives. He said they were looking for somebody who had a background in forge work and as a teacher. He said chills just went down his spine when he heard that.”

Hemphill said the rest is history. “They asked me to go in 2013 and I saw it at the time as a once in a lifetime opportunity. I never would have thought that I would end up back there for my third trip in three years.”

Hemphill said his trips to teach the men in Bamba have been life-changing. “This trip was about relationships and friendships. We’ve gone to the same village on all three trips so we’ve really gotten to know the people there,” Hemphill said. “It was tough leaving this time because now they’re our friends.

We’ve worked together and sweated together and laughed and got burned at the forge together.

Hemphill said each trip has brought a different experience for him. “I never looked at it like I’m the great Western saviour that’s going to come in and help you out. I just went because I was in a position to help people.

“They’re probably aren’t a lot of people are blacksmiths and also happen to be teachers. I just felt like it was the right thing to do. I know how to make knives so I knew I could help teach them how to make a living at it.” Hemphill

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THE SOUTHERN TORCH

BUSINESS

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

THE FISHERMAN SOUTHERN GOSPEL QUARTET For bookings call: Glenn Smith (256) 572-6146 Check us out on Facebook

3 locations to serve you: Rainsville 256-638-8600 Scottsboro 256-574-2679 Fort Payne 256-845-3350.

CHAMBER CHATTER

March 3, 2016 Carol Beddingfield, Executive Director

The old saying “It takes a village to raise a child” is really exemplified in the production of the Krazy Kudzu Follies. It truly takes the participation of the whole community to create a great night of laughter.

There are many people who never appear on stage that I would like to personally thank.

Kendall Shankles has been known as the “creator of props” for most of the productions. He has built a taxi cab, world’s biggest antique TV, a jail, fake instruments, and so many other unusual items.

If I can dream it Kendall will put his engineering skills to the task and create exactly what I had in mind. Most of the time his projects are even better than I could imagine.

These wild and crazy props would not work unless we had the two greatest stage hands. Gary Culberson and Chris Blake have everything to perfection before the cast of each skit take the stage.

They are so organized not only with setting up the props but storing them in such a small space behind the curtains.

They are always willing to help with the last minute changes to make the skits even better.

The lights and sound are run by Maurey Roberts. Maurey was introduced to the Follies at the Holly Follies performance in 2013. His talents (and patience) will certainly be tested with this production. I have no doubt that everything will be perfect! He wants every program held in the DeKalb Theatre to be a huge success.

Our MC’s this year will be Steve Black and his crew of Shaunta Dalton and Matthew Morgan.

These three will not be your typical MC’s. They have so many funny ways to introduce the acts, stall between the acts, and provide entertainment during the intermission.

You will definitely get your $15 worth of laughter at each of the performances on March 3, 4, & 5th at the DeKalb Theatre at 7 PM. The only thing you have to do is get your tickets this week at the Chamber Office or at Bruce’s Foodland in Fort Payne.

RAINSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

March 3, 2016 Tim Eberhart, Executive Director

Could it be true? Yes. The one and only Josh “Porkchop” Garrick will be at the Northeast Agri-Business Center in Rainsville this weekend. No doubt there will be a good sized crowd on hand for both nights of the big event, but there should be no problem whatsoever getting tickets at the gate.

It’s the 31st Annual Rainsville Lions Club Rodeo this Friday and Saturday. Garrick is a rodeo clown and one of the most entertaining entertainers you’ll have the opportunity to see in these parts this year. It will be worth the price of admission just to see and hear him do his thing. Watching the brave cowboys and cowgirls in the bronc riding, bull riding, barrel racing, steer wrestling and roping competitions will be great, too.

The rodeo starts at 7:30 p.m. each night. Doors should open at least an hour before the event.

It’s a Southeastern Professional Rodeo Association tour event, and it kicks off a very busy spring event season at the agri-business center.

The Southern Home & Family Show will be up there on March 18-20. With over 100 vendors displaying their wares, you’ll be able to learn about the latest and greatest products and services for home improvement, gardening and much more. It will run from 4 to 8 p.m. on Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is only $5 for everyone ages 13 and up.

There will be another big classic car show at the agri-business center on March 26. Then, the Southeast Regional Trapping & Outdoor Expo will be there on April 22-23. Almost every other weekend this spring there will be an event at the center that has something to do with horses. There will be a quarter horse show, a paint horse show, plus a variety of roping, mounted shooter and cutting horse competitions on upcoming weekends.

Not every event in Rainsville this spring will be at the agri-business center. On March 26, RTI’s Easter Egg Hunt will be at 1 p.m. over at RTI. The Run for Uganda 5K is April 9 over at the Rainsville Community Church.

More information about these and other events can be easily found at the events page on rainsvillealabama.com. Go there to find details, flyers and helpful links.

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Friday–March 4, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FAITH Transformer

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

Gloria and I were in Cairo. It was 1999, and we were two weeks into our first trip to the Holy Land, a trip that changed our lives forever. We were going to the pyramids. (Everybody’s bucket list).

But first we were going to church. Casey Mattox, a young man from our church, had just spent a year on staff at a church in Maadi about eight miles south of town. He had encouraged us to visit the church and had arranged for a friend to meet us there. The services at the

church are in English as the congregation is made up of people from other countries and locals.

To get to the service, we rode the subway from our downtown Cairo hotel and then took a cab to the church. We were assured that any taxi driver would be able to get us to the church. We enjoyed the subway ride with cars crammed to capacity by people enjoying their day off.

We got off at Maadi and grabbed a cab. But our driver spoke almost no English and our Arabic was nonexistent.

I said, “Take us to the church.” A look of total

incomprehension. “The church.” Nothing.

I thought a moment.

Then I put my left index finger across my right index finger making a cross. The driver’s eyes lit up. “Ah, kanisa” he said.

“Kirche”. “Yes”, I said, “Church”. He understood that the church is the place of the cross. He quickly pulled away and ten minutes later let us off at the building with a cross.

I have written elsewhere about all that service meant to us. For now, I just want to remember that moment of comprehension between us and the taxi driver. The cross. Ah, these people are Christians.

We Christians are making our annual journey toward Good Friday, the day of the cross. Christians are a people of the cross. We wear crosses around our necks. Gold ones, silver ones, wood ones. We have them in our homes and churches.

It is a strange thing to use as a symbol of faith.

It was, after all, used by the Romans as an instrument of torture and death. It was used for the lowest of criminals. To have someone die on the cross was a matter of shame for the family.

But Christians are a people of the cross. And the world recognizes it.

In China, the government has forcibly removed hundreds of crosses from church buildings. The leaders fear the power of the cross. In February, a Christian pastor and his wife were sentenced to over ten years in prison because they publicly opposed the removal of the cross from their church. Jail for saying “leave our church and our cross alone”.

The people of the cross are being persecuted around the world.

That is true today in ISIS controlled territory, in India, in Nigeria, in too many countries to list here.

Christians understand the power of the cross. A symbol of torture and execution. We sing, “the old rugged cross, the emblem of suffering and shame… so despised by the world, has a wondrous attraction for

Picture by China Aid

me”. Jesus changed the shame of the cross into an instrument of victory over death. If He could do that for the cross, think we He can do for you. We Christians know that He has taken us, as bad and imperfect as we are, and changed our lives. We are a people of the cross.

Because the cross changed each of us.

We preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles, but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God. I Cor. 1:24-25 Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Heb 12:2

A Moment with Megan: Continually Worship*

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

One day last week I was meeting a friend to go hiking at Little River Canyon. For the past few years hiking has been one of my favorite hobbies. There is something so therapeutic in being out in the woods and hiking down to rushing water. One of my favorite spots is to sit on a big boulder with a good book, escaping from the

busyness of everyday life or just simply sit and admire God’s beautiful creation. My intentions last week were to go to “my spot”, sit there on the rock and meditate on God’s goodness, his many blessing on my life, and I also had hopes of being inspired for the next article (the one I am currently writing). Have you all visualized the scenario and how peaceful it sounds?

Well, as much as I would love to sit here and say I made it to “my spot” and got super inspired …

that didn’t happen! The sun set and it got dark before we were able to make it to our destination. Before you feel sorry for me, I did however get inspired!! I got inspired … in Jack’s parking lot. YES, Jacks.

See, my friend was meeting me there so that we could ride together and while I was waiting for her to arrive, the trees behind the restaurant caught my attention. I’m not trying to sound super spiritual but please stay with me.

As I stared at the trees I noticed they were all bare (hence the winter and the harsh winds).

Which that observation doesn’t take a genius, right? But, then I noticed something profound. All of the branches on the trees were pointing up to the sky. Not one of the branches were growing downward, only up. It’s almost like the trees were continually worshipping Jesus!

I am reminded of Luke 19:39-40, “Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Him, ‘Teacher, rebuke Your disciples.’But Jesus answered, ‘I tell you, if these become silent, the stones will cry out!” Then lets take a look at Isaiah 55:12, “… the mountains and the hills will break forth into shouts of joy before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands.” Lets also

look at 1 Chronicles 16:33, “Let the trees of the forest sing; let them sing for joy before the Lord…” I am also reminded of John 15:5, “I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.”

As I was writing this I began to search through some old notes and “ironically” stumbled across something the Lord spoke to me almost a year ago. Once again, while I was looking out my window at some trees, He spoke, “Stay connected to me and I will give you all you need.” Isn’t that wonderful?! The God of the universe, the God who created me and you, isn’t just after adoration (though he deserves it all) but he wants to BLESS US. He isn’t just a God who sits on the throne demanding His creation to praise him but He is a God who desires to meet our every need. Yes, every need!

Friend, we are the branches on the tree. We should continually be lifting our praise and adoration to Him, as well as staying connected.

Through the good and the bad I want to still lift my hands (branch reference) to Him, He’s always worthy! Think of a branch that is broken and falls to the ground.

Then what happens? It

often gets trampled upon. Now imagine a tree that withstands a powerful storm. Sure, the branches are exposed to bad circumstances but just because a bad storm comes doesn’t mean the branches break. As long as they stay connected, they have life. Maybe you’re reading this and you feel broken or “trampled on”, defeated or alone. I challenge you to examine who or what you are connected to. As long as we are the branch connected to the tree (Christ) we cannot be trampled upon. Bad things may come our way but with Christ we are victorious! Through Him we are made strong!

Christ never promised that this life would be easy but He did say that he would never leave us or forsake us! I don’t know about you, but I want to abide in Him. I want to stay connected to my Heavenly Father. I want to continually worship His holy name! I don’t want a rock to cry out in my place. And lastly, don’t every underestimate how or when the Lord can speak to you… it could be at your next fast food stop! * This article by Megan Blansit was originally published by Southern Torch on Friday, February 12, 2016

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Friday–March 4, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

POLITICS The “SEC Primary” delivers on expectations!

Continued from page 1

Governor Bentley and other state officials rebuked her claim, but it helped solidify her support among AfricanAmericans in the south, leading to a SEC primary clobbering of Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders.

Addressing the crowd in Hoover regarding the perceived vote suppression, in her folksy twang only reserved for south of the Mason-Dixon line, Clinton used the analogy, “If a turtle is on a fence post, he didn’t get there own his own!” Well if Hillary were that turtle, the SEC primary helped put her there.

Donald Trump addressing a large crowd in Madison.

ordinary citizens in the process, along with giving the public a more direct avenue to have their voices heard. It also would change the national process as a whole, putting more delegates at stake on an earlier date. Let’s recap all the big things that happened in Alabama leading up to the primaries.

Alabama was visited by almost every major candidate Immediately after signing the bill into law moving our state’s primaries to coincide with six other southern states, candidates began scheduling and expressing intent to visit our state. Many even visited our state while dropping from the race before our primary.

Campaign events kicked off in August, and with most of the surrounding states sharing the same primary dates, this ensured candidates could easily travel the region, visiting each. All of the current frontrunners nationally, from both the Democratic and Republican parties, each

visited Alabama multiple times, hosting rallies for thousands of supporters.

prove to be his most valuable endorsement to date.

Donald Trump picked up a lot of steam in Alabama Real estate mogul Donald J. Trump’s campaign picked up a ton of steam while visiting Alabama. Some big moments happened right here at home. In August, Trump held his largest rally to date, which really got the media buzzing about his potential to be selected as the nominee.

Although his campaign reported 36,000, most media outlets estimated 20,000. Despite the difference, even 20,000 is unheard of at that early stage of the primary, especially for someone most insiders predicted to not last long. U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions, who is known for his strong stance on illegal immigration, spoke and embraced Trump at this rally, helping to define him as an immigration focused candidate.

Sessions would later endorse Trump just before ballots were cast at a similarly attended rally in Madison. This would

Hillary accused Alabama of voter supporession In mid-October, Democratic frontrunner Hillary Clinton publicly accused Alabama elected officials of trying to suppress the vote with voter identification laws and the closing of several Driver’s License offices while in Hoover. She also penned an opinion editorial in one of the state’s largest media outlets, AL.com, making the same accusation.

Trickle down to the local level The heightened level of national media coverage not only heightened the public’s interest in the presidential races, but also increased interest in local politics. This created a sort of “trickle down” effect that benefitted local candidates. Several events were held in Dekalb County that were well attended, and provided the average voter the chance to engage candidates in races from Board of Education all the way to U.S. Senate. It there is more citizen involvement, it encourages candidates to spend more

time engaging face to face with the public. One such event here locally was the Republican Women’s Candidate Meet and Greet, held at the Coal and Iron building in Fort Payne. Many members of the public came to meet candidates face-to-face.

What can we expect in future election cycles?

Probably the best result of the coordinated primary date, is the large increase in voter turnout.

While exact figures are unknown as of now, early estimates from the Secretary of State’s office project it to exceed 50 percent. The highest recorded in the state up until 2016 was 42 percent.

We can only expect this to increase in the future.

More at stake, meant more exposure to candidates, not only by live appearances, but campaigns spent valuable advertising resources here.

Alabamians were suddenly bombarded with presidential ads just like citizens of swing states get every four years. Being politically important can have it’s downsides, but like it or not, the SEC Primary achieved that goal.

Senator Rubio addressing a crowd in Huntsville just prior to election day Photo by Tyler Pruett

Senate Passes Balanced $1.8 Billion General Fund Budget Framework Proposal contains no new taxes, provides near-level funding for every state agency

By Joseph M. Morgan joseph@southerntorch.com

MONTGOMERY, Ala. — The Alabama Senate passed a lean $1.8 billion budget this week for the State General Fund (SGF), the budget for all non-education state spending. The Fiscal Year 2017 (FY17) budget level-funds most state agencies, including state troopers and Corrections, and contains no tax

increases.

“This is a tough but workable budget for the people of Alabama,” said Trip Pittman (R-Montrose), Chairman of the Senate General Fund Budget Committee.

“It level-funds many state agencies, while increasing funds for Public Health and our National Guard units. I look forward to the House’s input and ideas on the budget.”

The FY17 budget increases by $2.5 million the funding for both Mental Health and the Department of Human Resources, and gives Public Health an additional $10 million over last year, on the heels of a tuberculosis outbreak in west Alabama.

The budget process began in January when legislators held in-depth hearings on each state

department’s budget request, as part of a new zero-based budgeting approach, designed to carefully comb through the budget requests of every state agency.

“I want to commend Senator Pittman’s diligent work on getting the General Fund out on the 10th Legislative Day, one of the fastest in recent memory,” Senate President Pro Tem Del Marsh (R-Anniston) said.

“Getting started on the budget process prior to the beginning of session no doubt helped everyone involved. I believe everybody in the Senate was eager to pass the General Fund in a timely manner to avoid a summer of special sessions.”

The House of Representatives will now take up the General Fund budget.

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Friday–March 4, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

POLITICS

Senate establishes Minimum Wage Uniformity Senator Waggoner says that creating predictability and consistency helps economic growth

By Tyler Pruett tyler@southerntorch.com

MONTGOMERY, Ala.— The Alabama Senate acted this week to encourage economic growth and job creation by creating uniform statewide minimum wage and labor policies.

Senator Jabo Waggoner (R-Vestavia Hills) and Representative David Faulkner (R-Mountain Brook) sponsored House

Bill 174, also known as the Alabama Uniform Minimum Wage and Right to Work Act. “Senate Republicans deserve credit for championing and affirming that free enterprise creates opportunity for all,” Senator Waggoner said.

“By passing the Alabama Uniform Minimum Wage and Right to Work Act, we are protecting job creators from having to

deal with dozens of different minimum wages and labor rules that would vary from city to city.”

The bill, which is now headed to Governor Robert Bentley for his signature, prevents local governments from instituting a minimum wage and requires all cities and counties in Alabama to use the federal wage standards as a measure. Its passage

means businesses across Alabama will again have a predictable wage standard, which encourages economic growth.

In addition, Senator Waggoner’s legislation cements Alabama as a right-to-work state by giving the Legislature alone authority to establish uniform employment policies and regulations of collective bargaining.

“We want businesses to expand and create more jobs – not cut entry-level jobs because a patchwork of local minimum wages causes operating costs to rise.

Our actions today will create predictability and consistency for Alabama’s economy, which benefits everyone,” concluded Waggoner.

OPINION / EDITORIAL

Sen. Phil Williams endorses Marco Rubio for president Guest editorial by Alabama Sen. Phil Williams

The following editorial was submitted one day prior to Alabama’s Super Tuesday Primary

Sen. Phil Williams

By Tyler Pruett tyler@southerntorch.com

EVERY VOTE COUNTS….

EVERY SINGLE ONE. HERE IS HOW I WILL CAST MINE. The SEC Primary is tomorrow. In less than 24 hours the bulk of the Republican primary season will be decided.

I’m asked every day how I plan to vote – who is my candidate for the Republican nomination, and hopefully for the Presidency. I’ve remained publicly quiet until now and have studied the candidates in some detail. Even up until the past few days I was torn because I could not find “the perfect fit”. But I am

of the firm opinion that the quest for perfection cannot be the measure.

Rather it must be the quest for excellence. And as such, I have made my choice.

I want a President who can clearly annunciate his faith and to do so “with gentleness and respect”. Knowing that my Commander-in-Chief recognizes the role of a deep, abiding, and strengthening resolve that comes from knowing a living God that is bigger than him is key. I also want a President who recognizes that war, while a process of last resort, is indeed a process of undeniable requirement when national interests and public safety are involved. We must have a Chief Executive of this great nation who loves our Constitution and views it not as a living document subject to the whims of current society, but who decries any attempt to distort its original construction.

Our President must be a man who has a love for people, who will see the good in others when it is

there, and will admonish with professionalism and consistency when it is not. I also want a person in office who is not so proud that they cannot learn from their mistakes and who can heed the voice of wise counsel – but at the same time will recognize that the full weight of that office will at some point come down to the decision making that only a President can accomplish. I want a President who will protect our continental borders, and preserve our traditional values, because they are the very essence of who we are – geography and culture.

In saying all of this I also recognize what I do not want. I have seen in this election cycle the very antithesis of what I believe a President should look and act like.

I’ve never been what I would call an “establishment” candidate. I was elected from outside the mainstream, never having served in any elected office before. I have pursued conservative principles in my voting and have bucked

the status quo to make changes in our state politics. I am a veteran, a Tea Party conservative, and an unabashed evangelical Christian, and I hope that all of those come out in my politics. For those reasons I cannot see the point in electing a man who has openly campaigned on anger and epithets. The man who has posed on the cover of Playboy and has touted his infidelities like badges of honor does not show faithfulness in his character. The candidate who claims conservatism while abusing eminent domain for private purposes and supporting

the passage of Obamacare is not the man who is likely to limit the size and scope of government. This same angry and entitled man professes no inhibition in limiting the constitutional right of freedom of speech and has recently quoted the infamous dictator Mussolini in one of his daily Tweet-fests. There is such a thing as Presidential, and Donald Trump is not it.

On Tuesday, March 1st I will exercise my right to cast one vote. My vote goes to the man who I believe has best portrayed the example of excellence that I am looking for. I will vote for Marco Rubio.

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Friday–March 4, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Heartbreaking Loss for Section Lions fall to the Ider Lady Hornets Lanett Panthers shots on goal that didn’t fall.

Sometimes they’d fall and sometimes they didn’t, and tonight they didn’t,” said Ider Head Coach, Mark McMahon.

With 6:59 remaining in the fourth quarter, Hatch took their largest lead over Ider, with a score of 46-37. Senior, Dani Townson hit a 3 to bring the score within 6. In the final minutes of the game, the lead changed six times and tied three times. The size of Hatch players was a defining factor for Ider, especially in the final quarter of the game. “We’ve always played undersized, so we had to play quicker Hannah Culpepper goes for the net against R.C. and faster, and Hatch was just a little Hatch in the State semi-final game.

Photo Courtesy of Kristy Gallagher, Sports & More. better tonight,” Head Coach Mark McMahon stated. With less than 30

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor seconds left, Culpepper shot a 3 to tie marla@southerntorch.com the game, 57-57. With just a few seconds on the clock, Alaysia Norfleet scored R.C. Hatch 59, Ider 57 the winning shot of the game for Hatch.

BIRMINGHAM, Ala.—The Ider Senior Dani Townson finished her Lady Hornets were defeated 59-57 by Ider basketball career with a The R.C. Hatch Bobcats in the AHSAA double-double, 23 points and 10 Class 2A, State Semifinals Monday rebounds. Junior Hannah Culpepper night. had 14 points for the night. Senior The Ider Lady Hornets returned to Kaylan Brown had 8 points to finish out the finals for the first time since 2009. her time as a Lady Hornet.

Junior, Hannah Culpepper set the pace Senior Miranda Jones led R.C. for Ider by scoring on a layup with 7:56 Hatch with 18 points. Ka’Lasha remaining in the first quarter. During Patterson, the 5-foot-10 senior for Hatch the first quarter, it was back and forth had 14 points and 10 rebounds. scoring. With 1:43 left in the first, Ider had their largest lead of the night with 8 Freshman, Alaysia Norfleet finished with 13 points for the night. points. Going into the second, Ider had “We are thankful to be here. These the one-point advantage over R.C Hatch girls have put in their time. A lot of with the score being at 16-15. The Lady losses playing up on varsity since Hornets outscored the Bobcats by 5 seventh grade. They have taken their points in the second and went into the half with a 31-26 advantage. Senior Dani lumps some seasons with only two to three wins.” “The work ethic and vision Townson, Hannah Culpepper and of these girls is unmeasurable” Coach Morgan Flynn led the Lady Hornets in McMahon stated. “Tough tonight. The the first half, scoring 28 of the 31 points. work ethic and vision of these girls is Coming back from the half, Ider unmeasurable. “ seemed to face a different team. Hatch The Ider Lady Hornets finished held Ider to 6-points in the third quarter and took over the lead. “We had some their season with a 24-9 record.

Bill Monroe ongratulations Ider Lady

C

Hornets on a great season! paid political ad by Bill Monroe 3232 County rd 20 crossville Al 35962

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

Lanett 72, Section 59

BIRMINGHAM, Ala.—The No. 4 ranked Section Lions were defeated

by No. 1 Lanett Panthers 72-59 in the Class 2A State Tournament Semifinals at the BJCC Legacy Arena Monday night.

The Section Lions made their ninth appearance at the state playoffs and the first since 2006.

Lanett jumped to the early lead in the first with a 3-pointer by Jalen Madden. Section answered back with a 3-pointer of their own by Dylan Davis. This set the tone for the remainder of the first with back-and-forth scoring between the two teams. Section led by as many as five in the first and took the 15-13 lead going into the second.

During the second quarter, the lead changed four times and the score was tied four times. Lanett had a 13-2 run in the second. At halftime, the Panthers led the Lions, 31-24.

The Section Lions came back from the half with new zeal. They outscored Lanett 10-0 in the first two minutes of the quarter and gained the 34-31 lead. The lead changed three more times before Lanett jumped into the 60-48 lead with 4:48 remaining in the game.

Lanett lead by as much as 14 points in the fourth but the Lions refused to surrender and cut their lead to 5 with 2:21 remaining. Lanett forced three turnovers. The turnovers by the Lions led to easy baskets for Lanett and sealed their victory with a final score of 72-59.

The Section Lions ended their season with a 26-6 record. Senior Caleb Haynes led the Section Lions

Senior, Caleb Haynes takes it to the net against Lanett. Photo Courtesy of Kristy Gallagher, Sports and More.

in the semi-final game with 24 points. He went 9-of-12 shooting, had six rebounds and two steals.

Sophomore Dylan Davis scored in the double digits for the Lions as well with 18. He hit 6-of-8 3-pointers. “I know it hurts our guys. They’re tore up. I am too,” said Section head coach Jamie Pruett. “But I can’t be prouder of my guys. They fought the whole game.”

When talking about the eight seniors, Pruett had this to say, “A lot of good players to replace also a lot of good people to replace.”

Anquaevious Pollard led the Lanett Panthers (28-6) with 28 points and 14 rebounds. Emanuel Little scored a double-double also with 10 points and 16 rebounds.

Lanett Head Coach Richard Carter stated, “I need to say this about Section, they played an extremely hard-fought game.” Carter said, “(Caleb) Haynes was a man down there. He gave us fits.” Carter will coach his first state final game of his 45-year career, Friday morning against Saint Luke’s Episcopal.

FANS OF THE WEEK!

The Southern Torch Fans of the Week are the Ider Lady Hornets Fans! They were spotted at Regionals and at State cheering on their Lady Hornets!!! Submit your picture to marla@ southerntorch.com for your chance to be our next Fans of the Week.

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Friday–March 4, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Crossville Hosts March Madness Classic

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

RAINSVILLE, Ala.—The Crossville Lady Lions will host the March Madness Classic this weekend at the Rainsville Field of Dreams Complex.

The games will start

at 5 p.m. on Friday.

Several local teams including Section, Geraldine, Crossville, Plainview and Collinsville will participate.

Rainsville Council member, Brandon Freeman had this to say

Softball Box Scores

about the tournament being played in Rainsville, “This will bring a lot of revenue to our town. We have a great facility to host such a tournament and I think this will bring great exposure to us.”

CROSSVILLE MARCH MADNESS CLASSIC Varsity Pool - A Plainview Guntersville Madison County Hoover East Limestone

Varsity Pool - B Section Cherokee County Geraldine New Hope Madison Academy

**Crossville teams will only play in pool play to help even team playing–will not play in elim. bracket**

Varsity Pool - C Cherokee County Madison County Brooks Hoover Collinsville Plainview

Coach Meg Jones 256-601-9210 or mbjones@dekalb12.org Location: Rainsville Field of Dreams Complex, 100 Rodeo Ln., Rainsville, AL

FRIDAY 6:30pm:

East Limestone v Madison Co.

8:00pm:

Hoover v Guntersville

Field 2–Varsity

Field 3–JV Teams

Crossville v Section

Plainview v Cherokee

5:00pm:

6:30pm:

8:00pm:

8:00pm:

Mad Acad v New Hope

Feb 26-March 2, 2016

5:00pm:

6:30pm:

Cherokee v Geraldine

Baseball Box Scores: Collinsville 16, Valley Head 0 Crossville 5, Sylvania 0 Oneonta 11, Fort Payne 1 Fort Payne 7, Fairview 2 Geraldine 5, Fyffe 3 Sylvania 6, Geraldine 4 Geraldine 6, Crossville 2 Ider 11, Skyline 1 Skyline 7, Ider 1 Guntersville 4, Plainview 0

*Record against Crossville will county in seeding*

Field 1–Varsity

Skyline 6, Collinsville 5 Collinsville 2, Pisgah 0 Collinsville 6, Sylvania 4 Collinsville 5, North Jackson 4 DAR 6, Collinsville 1 Collinsville 11, Cherokee County 10 Grissom 5, Fort Payne 1 Geraldine 16, Cedar Bluff 1 Plainview 3, Geraldine 1 Plainview 13, Geraldine 1 Plainview 17, Cedar Bluff 0 Sylvania 4, Woodville 0 Glencoe 3, Sylvania 2 Sylvania 16, Asbury 0

Collinsville v Hoover Madison County v Brooks

SATURDAY Field 1–Varsity

Field 2–Varsity

Field 3–JV Teams

Plainview v Madison County

Section v Geraldine

Cherokee v Hoover

8:00am: 9:30am:

East Limestone v Guntersville

11:00am:

8:00am:

8:00am:

9:30am:

9:30am:

11:00am:

11:00am:

New Hope v Cherokee Crossville v Mad Acad

Plainview v Madison County Collinsville v Brooks

Hoover v Plainview

*****Elimination Bracket is scheduled to start prompty at 1:00pm*****

The Fort Payne WIldcat Tennis Team faced Plainview Bears recently

Fort Payne Wildcats, Tyler Berry and Byrum Emory against the Plainview Bears.

Photo courtesy Christie Chaney

Abigail Fraebel serves against Plainview.

Photo courtesy Christie Chaney

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Friday–March 4, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Pick up your copy of The Southern Torch at any of the following locations: FORT PAYNE: Jacks North Foodland The Strand The Spot South End Market Western Sizzlin Los Arcos Mexican Restaurant Walgreen’s (inside) IDER: Foodland

COLLINSVILLE: Piggly Wiggly Jacks DAWSON: Dawson Gas Station GERALDINE: Jacks FYFFE: Jacks Fuel City MENTONE: Mentone Market

VALLEY HEAD: Gas Station Tigers Inn HENAGAR: Texaco SYLVANIA: Gas Station RAINSVILLE: Southern Torch office McDonald’s Foodland Fuel City Hardee’s Shop & Save