The Southern Torch, Vol. 2, No. 12

THE SOUTHERN TORCH / FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2016 / VOL. 2, NO. 12 / $1.00

COMMUNITY

FAITH

POLITICS

SOUTHERN TORCH EASTER PHOTO PARADE CONTEST

GREAT SERMON

ALABAMA HOUSE PASSES $6.3 BILLION EDUCATION BUDGET

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Blevins convicted of manslaughter, gets 30 years

Franklin Ledel Blevins

By Joseph M. Morgan joseph@southerntorch.com

DEKALB COUNTY, Ala.—Franklin Ledel Blevins, 35, of Fort Payne, was sentenced yesterday to 30 years in the Alabama penitentiary by Ninth Circuit Judge Jeremy Taylor after Blevins pled guilty to manslaughter in the death of Huntsville

resident Leanna Elaine Ivey, 32.

On Sept. 4, 2013 Fort Payne police officers were dispatched to a residence on a domestic disturbance call alleging that the Blevins had entered a residence armed with a knife looking for the victim. The owner of the residence was able to retreat from her home to a neighbor's house where a 911 call was placed to FPPD. After calling 911, the owner saw Blevins and Ivey leaving the location in a red truck.

A BOLO was issued for the truck which was soon located by police.

After being given verbal commands to stop the vehicle and surrender, Blevins refused to comply and fled taking evasive

actions to keep from being stopped by pursuing officers. Blevins began running stop signs and traveling at a high rate of speed through the Fort Payne city limits, traveling in the opposing lane of traffic and almost hitting another vehicle head-on.

As the pursuit was approaching the intersection of Alabama 35 and DeKalb County Road 78, Blevins, who was now driving at speeds reaching 90 miles per hour, ran a stop sign and went airborne across Alabama Highway 35 at which time he lost control of his vehicle and crashed into a large tree off of DeKalb County Road 295. Ivey, who was CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

MARCH 18-20, 2016 SETUP: MARCH 17-18, 2016 NORTHEAST ALABAMA AGRIBUSINESS CENTER RAINSVILLE, ALABAMA

DeKalb company launches new app

A Topher's employee and customer exchange the restaurant's first official Native Rewards transaction

By Joseph M. Morgan joseph@southerntorch.com

RAINSVILLE, Ala.—After weeks of anticipation, a locally owned marketing and software development

company launched the Native Rewards app Tuesday. The app was designed to help small businesses in DeKalb and Jackson Counties engage with their consumers, and

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at the same time, help encourage those consumers to find and purchase the goods and services they need through buying local.

Native is not the first

app to utilize data to create mutually beneficial relationships between merchants and consumers.

What sets the Rainsville company apart, however, is that Native did not design and market their app with the usual suspects in mind—the national chains, big “box” stores, or multimillion dollar corporations that invest billions each year in tech. Instead of going after a single “big fish” corporation and cashing in with one client, Native’s business model is aimed at engaging as many of the small businesses in a given area as possible and then helping them to pool their resources and work together to better compete with larger chains.

Native co-founder Ryan Tramel said the app will level the playing field for national chains and 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 COMMUNITY

The Greenleaf Grill opens doors in Mentone Mentone is now home to a new restaurant. The Greenleaf Grill has officially opened for business, and owner Jimmy Rogers has big plans for his new eatery on the mountain.

It's his intention to build…

Page 3 THIS WEEK IN FAITH/INSPIRATION

Through my eyes

Time stands still while we are waiting. What seems like hours has only been minutes.

Waiting for the doctor to walk in and trying to read his facial expressions. You don't hear anything but you know he is talking. At this point you feel helpless and have no control. Then he reads your test results.

I am Angie, my husband Diego has Cancer and I want to give insight on a caregiver's point of view, through my eyes.…

Page 7 THIS WEEK IN SPORTS

Pisgah Softball holds round robin tournament

The Pisgah Lady Eagles held a round robin tournament this pas weekend. Local teams including Sylvania, Ider, North Jackson, Skyline, North Sand Mountain and Pisgah participated. Ider defeated Sylvania in the final game of the tournament.

Ider Lady Hornets faced the North Sand Mountain Lady Bisons to start tournament play. Ider defeated North Sand Mountain 15-1. Senior Mackenzie Hughes took the win on the mound for the Lady Hornets…

Page 10 PRESORTED STANDARD MAIL U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

PERMIT NO. 60 RAINSVILLE, AL

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Friday–March 18, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Publisher, Joseph M. Morgan Layout editor, Dwayne Adams

Sand Mountain Electric hosts first responders

Sand Mountain Electric Cooperative General Manager and CEO Mike Simpson addresses a packed house of first responders

By Tyler Pruett tyler@southerntorch.com

RAINSVILLE, Ala.— The Sand Mountain Electric Cooperative (SMEC) hosted a dinner and safety training seminar for all first responders in their coverage area on Monday, March 14. SMEC

invited all police departments, sheriff departments, rescue squads, and fire departments from three different counties to show their appreciation and provide instruction on how to safely deal with emergencies involving electricity.

Traditionally, SMEC hosts the event every few years, but after the April

2011 tornados, the co-op decided to reformat the program based on the new experiences of that tragic day. That powerful line of storms reeked havoc statewide, and tied up virtually all first responders and local electric companies.

Mike Simpson, General Manager and CEO of the electric coop, served as the master of ceremonies. With a coverage area of one thousand miles and only two, two-man crews on standby at all times, first responders must often deal with dangerous situations involving downed power lines until

repair crews arrive.

“We’re training them in how to deal with downed power lines,” Thompson said. “We also want to promote better communication and cohesion between first responders and the electric coop.”

“Local firefighters, rescue squad members, and police officers do a fantastic job for our communities,” Thompson added. “We wanted to host this dinner not only to keep them safe, but also to show our appreciation.”

The presentation and dinner was held at the Cooperative’s auditorium in Rainsville

Continued from page 1

DeKalb company launches new app small local businesses.

Tramel said Native utilizes technology that allows local merchants to connect directly with their consumers.

"Crowdsourcing provides the network with pooled funding that makes it possible for small business owners to thrive in the global marketplace," Tramel said.

At press time, roughly 50 of the 104 merchants who had been approached chose to join the Native Network. The company expects to reach at least 500 merchants by Christmas 2016.

According to Native, the app will allow shoppers to save and win money, just by shopping at local businesses. “All you have to do is show the app on your phone at the register to be entered in one of Native's $100 a week Fortune drawings,” Tramel said. “Native is giving away $100 in both Jackson and DeKalb Counties each week, and Fortune winnings can be spent at businesses that use Native in either county. Shoppers will also

gain access to personalized deals from local businesses, just by having the app.”

Native Director of Marketing Jordan Doufexis used a story from his childhood to illustrate a final point to a group of business owners he was addressing on Tuesday night.

“My family was in the sock business when I was young. I remember as a kid our entire family, all of us, would work every day, folding and packing socks, working as we could to get ahead Doufexis said. “And you always get to that point where you feel like you’re just about to break through, you’re just about to turn the corner and finally spread your wings and soar, ready to thrive as a business. For us there was always that light at end of the tunnel, we would see it and grandfather would always say, you know that light at end of tunnel is? That’s a train coming. And he was right.

A few months later the sock industry collapsed. I remember him talking to me as we were shutting

things down and getting ready to close our doors for good. He said, ‘If you’re going to start a local business—if you’re going to work for yourself, there’s something I want you to remember—as a small business owner you’ve got your family and your family alone. Other than that you’re on your own.’ ”That’s a problem that we see here, that local merchants have most everywhere. You’re own your own. Nobody is helping you. Walmart spends $10.4 billion on tech each year. Walgreens?

Much smaller but they spend $2.5 billion. That’s what you’re competing against as a local merchant. You can’t do that. And you don’t have to do that. I’m proud to tell you today that with Native, that’s no longer the case.

You are no longer alone.”

The Native Rewards app is free to download on the App Store for iPhones and the Google Play store for Android phones. For more information about Native, visit: choosenative.com.

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Friday–March 18, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

COMMUNITY

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

The Greenleaf Grill opens doors in Mentone trout from North Carolina, and even fresh shrimp as well as crab meat from Mobile,” he said.

The location itself also lends to the uniqueness of the Mentone community.

The Greenleaf is located in the Log Cabin Village, in the former Moonlight Bistro. The structure itself was once an old indian trading post which was relocated to Mentone over 30 years The Greenleaf Grill is located in the old Moonlight Bistro on Highway 117.

By Tyler Pruett tyler@southerntorch.com

MENTONE, Ala.— Mentone is now home to a new restaurant. The Greenleaf Grill has officially opened for business, and owner Jimmy Rogers has big plans for his new eatery on the mountain. It’s his intentions to build a unique business that reflects the uniqueness of

the community that surrounds it.

Rogers grew up right here in Dekalb County, attending school at Plainview. Since then he’s lived all over the country and brings a unique combination of regional foods to the area. Rogers also has experience with every aspect of the business, from starting off as a waiter to managing large

Ider Rescue Squad hosts bass tournament

By Tyler Pruett tyler@southerntorch.com

IDER, Ala.— The Ider Rescue Squad would like to invite all local fisherman to participate in a benefit bass tournament on April 9th.

Anglers will launch at Safe Light, and the weigh-in will be at the Bait, Tackle, and Grill at Goose Pond at 2:00 pm.

The entry fee is $100.00 and all proceeds go to support the rescue squad.

The first place prize is

$1500, with cash prizes being awarded to tenth place. There will also be a “Big Fish” prize, with a ten dollar entry fee and a 100% pay back. This is a “buddy” team tournament, meaning participants may choose a partner or fish alone. For more information, visit the website: www. iderrescue.org/fishingtournament. The Ider Rescue Squad is not responsible for accidents or loss of property.

Local Scout honored

Left to right is Rainsville Mayor Nick Jones, Michael Kay, District Executive Sequoyah District, Thomas Hartline and Scoutmaster Brent Casey. Thomas has been in the scouts for four years.

restaurants and even running a produce company.

“We want our restaurant to reflect on the community around it,” Rogers said. “The town of Mentone is known for it’s simplicity and originality as well as the fresh air. We plan on offering a wide variety of items, while keeping the menu simple.”

He also understands that having fresh ingredients is key to a successful restaurant, and Mentone is the best place around to find the right stuff. “The farmer’s market will provide us with the best locally grown produce. We’ll also be bringing in never-frozen rainbow

Owner and operator Jimmy Rogers.

The interior is rustic with a modern flair.

ago. Rogers has also remodeled the interior to match the town: rustic with a modern flair. He’s also adding an additional dining room which live music will be played.

Diners can also sit on the front porch on a nice day.

“We like to keep everything simple,” Rogers said, “we want to provide fine dining, but if you want a fried bologna or tomato sandwich, we can handle that too.”

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Friday–March 18, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

COMMUNITY

SOUTHERN TORCH EASTER PHOTO PARADE CONTEST

Southern Torch is awarding prizes to be dressed in your Easter best! Post photos of your children dressed in their Easter outfits on our facebook page beginning March 14 and ending March 23 at 10 a.m. We would like our facebook followers to be the judges so the picture with the most likes will be awarded first place and will receive $100, second place will receive $50 and third place $25. Spring is in the air and Easter is around the corner so post your photos for your chance to win.

Upcoming Events for the week of 3/18 March 19:

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

March 19:

Geraldine Eggstravaganza - 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Lots of fun with over 5000 eggs, lots of prizes food and music. Bring your own basket.

March 19:

CPR Course - Desoto

Rescue Squad will be holding a community CPR course at the Mentone Community Church Life Center 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Cost is $20 and registration is

limited to 20 people.

Call to reserve a seat 256-755-1023

March 20:

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

Quartet and Wilburn & Wilburn. Advanced tickets are $12 and $15 at the door at Dekalb Theatre in Fort Payne.

256-996-8910 or 256459-4769

March 25:

Southern Home and Family Show - Hosted at the Northeast Alabama Agri-Business Center. Call (256) 605-1801 for booth sponsorship.

Jess Goggans at the Wildflower Cafe Come and enjoy dinner and music with Jess.

For more information or reservations, call the Wildflower Cafe at 256634-0066

March 25:

March 26:

March 18-20:

Good Friday Celebration - Come enjoy great music with the Gold City

RTI’s Easter Egg Hunt - 1 p.m. at RTI, 189 RTI Drive in Rainsville. Free

Admission. Bring your own Easter basket

March 26:

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.

March 26:

Fort Payne Reservoir/ Wills Creek Clean Up & Work Day Help the crew at Fort Payne Water Board protect your drinking water! Reservoir and Wills Creek clean upvolunteers will remove litter from the reservoir shoreline, roadsides,

and bridge near FP Water Treatment Plant. Rain date is April 2. If you have questions or would like to participate, contact Angie at One World Adventure at 256-634-8370 or

angie@oneworldadventureco.org

March 27:

You are invited to the Dekalb Schools Coliseum Easter Sunday 10 a.m. for a time of celebration, amazing Music and a powerful message of hope.

There will be a nursery for babies - 2 years and there will be a children’s service for ages 3 - 3rd grade. 256-7179512

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT 5

Friday–March 18, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

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.

RAINSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

March 17, 2016 Tim Eberhart, Executive Director

TAllow me a moment here in the middle of March to mention multiple mismatched yet meaningful matters.

First, I want our member businesses to consider our booth at this weekend’s Southern Home & Family Show to be their own. It would be better for them to have their own booth, but if they don’t, and they have coupons or brochures they would like to display, they can get them to us and we will gladly display them. The show runs from Friday afternoon until Sunday afternoon at the Northeast Alabama AgriBusiness Center.

Second, if you are citizen looking to work with an organization dedicated to helping people, the Rainsville Civitan Club needs you. Civitan International is known for its commitment to helping people with developmental disabilities on a global scale while individual clubs serve community needs on a local basis. If you would like to learn more, our club’s next meeting is Wednesday, March 23 at noon at Kelly’s Kitchen. Or, feel free to contact me.

Third, the Tom Bevill Enrichment Center is in its 23rd year of operation. A great place for your next reunion, banquet or small concert, the city-owned facility has a 4,000 square feet auditorium with a kitchen, plus a smaller meeting room. It’s used as a senior center on weekdays, and the square dancers use it each Thursday night, but many weekends and weeknights are open for rental at a very reasonable rate. Feel free to contact me about it.

In Chamber news, we have three more new members to welcome: Gorham’s Bluff, Cooper Heating & Cooling and Sand Mountain Pest Management.

Gorham’s Bluff is a community known for its lodge, cottages, fine dining and catering. It is also known as a great wedding venue, for it’s real estate and breathtaking view of the Tennessee River.

Cooper Heating & Cooling is located at 174 McCurdy Avenue in Rainsville. Rickey Cooper and his staff stay busy repairing air conditioning and heating systems for both residential and commercial. Of course, they also install new systems.

Sand Mountain Pest Management serves customers in all of DeKalb and Marshall County. They’re a capable option when you need to control or eliminate termites, mice, spiders, moles, mosquitoes and the like.

Find out more about all our members at www.rainsville.info.

CHAMBER CHATTER

March 16, 2016 Carol Beddingfield, Executive Director Congratulations to First Choice Personnel for being part of the Fort Payne business community for 25 years!

This staffing agency has definitely contributed to the success of many other businesses in our area through the employment services it provides.

First Choice Personnel strives to understand specific business processes and company strategies of each company it serves.

The number one goal of the agency is to allow the business to operate in a more timely and innovative manner.

Their emphasis is always on the bottom line for the business.

Each applicant that is referred to the business has undergone a thorough screening process. Experiences, abilities and skills are determined by the candidate’s interview by First Choice Personnel employees.

Previous employment history verification of each applicant is provided to the business. Background checks are also completed.

Drug testing is also a part of screening the applicant.

There are 3 levels of the testing: 5-panel, 10 panel as well as MRO administered testing. The requirement of the business determines the level.

Applicants can fill various roles in a business such as full time employment, seasonal workloads, vacation, maternity leave, sickness, special projects and employee absences.

While the business is First Choice Personnel’s clients, those seeking employment are treated as professionals as well. According to Dusty Stinson, the company’s owner and President, “First Choice has been honored to serve the community. The company looks forward to many more years of continued success helping the people of Fort Payne.”

It is the mission of First Choice Personnel to help every person who desires work to find a job that not only feeds the family but also the soul.

Contact Shannon Maxwell, Office Manager at First Choice Personnel, 256-845-7105 or visit the staff at 2207 A Gault Avenue , North, Fort Payne.

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Friday–March 18, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FAITH

Great Sermon

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

My wife had an unusual comment about my preaching.

We were on our first family trip west. It was nothing like the Griswold’s trip in Family Vacation. It was late May when we left Alabama towing a little pop-top camper with canvas sides. We were going all the way to Calgary and the Canadian Rockies to visit friends.

We drove straight to Denver then into the Rockies for camping.

There was still snow on the ground at our over 9,000 feet campground. My boys loved it (just three boys at this time). My wife wanted heat.

We drove though a hot air balloon gathering then into Wyoming, getting to Jackson just after dark.

We knew there were mountains, but we could not see them in the dark.

Jackson is at the southern

end of Jackson Hole, a 6,000 feet high bowl surrounded by mountains.

Fortified with pancakes, we drove toward into the bowl the next day.

A mile or two in, the small mountain on our left fell away. And we gasped.

There on our left were the Grand Tetons stretching up to almost 14,000 feet.

They jabbed into the perfect blue sky. Patches of white clouds in the sky, white snow fields on the mountains. We were not ready for the sudden beauty. The grain fields of the bowl served as a platter to display the mountains, rows of Aspens standing guard at the end of the fields. We stopped just to stare.

We stopped at a ranch that predates the National Park. The Snake River cut through the ranch that had operated a ferry. Back toward the mountains sat a small wooden chapel. It nestled into the grass as if it had grown there with the sage grass, a small wooden cross on the roof pointing to the heavens.

We considered

skipping the inside of the chapel, anxious to get up the road to Jenny Lake and see how its surface reflects the mountains. But we are not church skipping people, so we went into what we learned was the Chapel of Transfiguration.

People have worshipped there since 1925.

The building was simple wood everywhere.

Door, floors, ceiling, altar rail, pews with seating for about fifty. All lovingly polished. But Gloria and I did not really notice any of that for a while. Behind the altar rail and communion table was a huge window covering most of the back wall.

When you walk through the door your eyes are drawn to the window and the mountains beyond. It acts as a huge picture frame of the most beautiful view in the world. For the second time that morning, we gasped at the beauty.

I noticed that the pulpit was pushed far over to the side as if it was an afterthought. No danger of it interfering with the view. After a while, I looked over at Gloria and said, “Oh, Honey. If I preached here nobody

would ever listen to me.”

She did not bother to take her eyes off the view as she said, “Honey, if you preached here nobody would need to listen to your sermon.”

I smiled. She was right. God had already preached the sermon. The mountains shouted His name, His presence, His grandeur and His love. He spoke the mountains into being. And now He still speaks to us.

Maybe you aren’t seeing a lot of beauty right now. One thing I am sure of. God is speaking to you.

Just listen. Try a local church. Try a Bible. Try talking to Jesus. Or drive Highway 11 from Fort Payne to Collinsville.

Look. And listen to Him.

Chapel of the Transfiguration, Grand Tetons National Park

View inside the Chapel

A Moment with Megan: Are You and Orchid or an Oak Tree?

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

When I think of an orchid, I think of a beautiful, simply poised flower. However, when I did some research on

how to properly take care of an orchid, it is far from simple! Unlike other potted plants, you cannot just do a daily watering routine and leave the orchid in a window. The orchid is far more complicated. Orchids do not do well with being watered daily, but do best if watered every 5-12 days, DEPENDING on the time of year and how much heat the plant is getting. Another tip I read was to water your orchid with a spray bottle or place ice cubes in the pot, BUT be sure not to get the leaves to wet! If the leaves get too wet it can damage them. Also, an orchid cannot flourish in direct sunlight, in a large amount of heat, and cannot handle frequent, cold breezes. For example, the leaves can burn if the plant receives too much sunlight; experts suggest moving the plant around in a room during the day to avoid direct light. Can I just stop for a minute and point out the obvious- an orchid is extremely complicated! This stresses me out thinking of trying to tend to one. I don't even tend to my dog this much!

I don’t know about you, but I don't want to be an orchid; I don't want to be a complicated person.

Judging from the outside, sure I would want to be a beautiful orchid; however, I don't want to

be that person who is super sensitive, difficult to understand and controlled by emotions. I want to be like an oak tree! Oak trees are strong and can withstand anything (lots of heat, water, etc). Lets check out Jeremiah 17: 7-8, “ But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him.

They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green.

It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.” When life gets heated (aka tough) are you like an orchid or an oak tree? Do you wither and want to crawl in a hole, having a pitty party? Or do you remind yourself who you are (as a Christian) and know that you can conquer anything that comes your way with Christ?

Think about how big and strong an oak tree is, and now picture an orchid. An orchid compared to an oak tree seems quite fragile, right? Hard winds are going to come, rain will pour down, but I challenge you not to become so emotional that you act as if you have no root system.

When storms come are you still standing?

How do we have a strong root system? This

comes by spending time with the Lord, digging into His Word, surrounding ourselves with other believers who will encourage our walk with Him, etc. Ironically, roots of an oak tree can also be destructive. Their roots can probe underground pipes, damage foundations, and so on.

Lets relate this to our lives- Is it possible that we could be so rooted in Christ that we can destroy and overcome any doubt, insecurities, etc? Absolutely!

Life is going to be crazy, but friend, you can make it! The Lord has promised to never leave us nor forsake us (Deuteronomy 31:6). Lets also look at 2 Corinthians 5:7, “For we walk by faith, not by sight.”…Your environment may look bad, but God is still good!

Notice the word “faith” …

“Walk by FAITH.” For example, if you battle fear, you have to face your fear, and have faith that God is with you all the way. By pressing in, these small steps will make you strong like the oak tree. Can you handle the heat?

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Friday–March 18, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FAITH & INSPIRATION

Through my eyes

By Angie Reynoso angie@southerntorch.com

Time stands still while we are waiting.

What seems like hours has only been minutes.

Waiting for the doctor to walk in and trying to read his facial expressions. You don't hear anything but you know he is talking. At this point you feel helpless and have no control.

Then he reads your test results.

I am Angie, my husband Diego has Cancer and I want to give insight on a caregiver’s point of view, through my eyes.

Diego had his 3 month Positron emission tomography (PET) scan Wednesday to check the status of his cancer. The dread of going for results leaves a knot in my stomach. Staying positive is easier for him than me for some reason.

He actually has had to

calm me down in the past when he received bad news. Well, it's that time again. The knot is already there. Monday, we will have to sit in the doctor’s office as we have been for over 4 years, waiting for the results.

Some of you may know exactly what I am talking about while some of you won't have a clue.

Our normal routine is not normal anymore. We live simple and day-today not knowing how he will feel when he rolls out of bed. Some days are good, some days are bad and some days he pretends to be okay. I see him daily and I see his pain, his frustration because he can’t open a water bottle due to his hand hurting so bad. I see the look in his eyes when we have to sacrifice material things because of the ongoing expenses.

I hear the weakness in his voice on the days it’s all he can do is to get out of bed. I see it all and the helpless feeling never goes away. All I can do is be by his side and hope for a better day.

It starts with a simple “Good Morning” text when he wakes up. I am

always at work and I always leave him to sleep in since most of the time he has a hard time sleeping. I know then how his day will go. I usually call him a few hours later to check on him, to hear his voice, to make sure he is okay. He is always truthful with me, or at least I think he is, about how he is feeling. Bad days, I encourage him to rest and good days I usually ask him to run errands or something to get him out of the house. The constant worry while I work is hard but I know if he needed me he would call me. I have to stay on him to eat for the most part and so many times I have sent a simple message that says nothing other than “EAT!” Trying to juggle work and monitoring his health is hard but I feel it's a necessity to make sure he gets plenty of rest, sunshine, activities, nutrition and encouragement.. As a spouse and caregiver at times you do what is necessary to see them through it. I know I do. Diego doesn't fight this alone, I fight with him everyday.

Our lives are so different now versus before he was diagnosed, but it dosen’t matter to me. I don't care that we can't make plans more than a few hours before the scheduled date. It has never crossed my mind to be angry with him, or hold any hard feelings against him or to blame him. I don't mind that we sit home most of the time because he gets sick easily. I am okay that I don't get to visit family and friends as much as I would like.

The only thing that matters to me is that I give him all my love and peace of mind, that no matter what I will do everything in my power to get him through this. I do, however get tired and feel discouraged at times.

After all I am human. I have a lot to deal with for the most part. People tell me all the time how strong I am but in reality I'm not. I just do what I have to do. “In sickness and in health” was a vow I took 5 years ago—just 9 months before he was diagnosed with Cancer. I am my husband’s caregiver but also his biggest fan.

Supports Team Diego!

For more information, to order t-shirts, or to make a donation, please contact: Email: angie@southerntorch.com Phone: (256) 638-4040 Gofundme: www.gofundme.com/8Ksp8ss4

Team Diego Shirt–Left Chest: 4"w × 2.6"h

Artwork is available in white on a blue garment, or in blue on a white garment.

Team Diego Shirt–Full Back: 11"w × 13"

8

Friday–March 18, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

POLITICS Alabama House passes $6.3 billion education budget

in the nation to offer wireless broadband access in each of its K-12 public school classrooms, this education budget may be considered among the best ones passed in Alabama’s history.”

The highlights in the Fiscal Year 2017 Education Trust Fund budget include: • Providing funding for an additional 475 teachers in 7-12 grade classrooms, where the need is greatest.

By Joseph M. Morgan joseph@southerntorch.com

MONTGOMERY, Ala.— By a 105 to 0 margin, the Alabama House on Tuesday passed a $6.3 billion Education Trust Fund (ETF) budget that includes a teacher pay raise, decreases classroom sizes and provides significant investments in proven classroom programs.

“As a result of the responsible spending practices that have been

utilized since Republicans took leadership of the Legislature, this budget is able to reward teachers and support personnel with a needed pay raise that also closes the salary gap between administrators and classroom educators,” House Ways and Means Education Chairman Bill Poole (R – Tuscaloosa) said. “This budget, coupled with ongoing reforms, represents an investment in our children and our

education employees, in our workforce development and job creation efforts, and consequently, in our future prosperity.

This budget truly focuses on solutions that will lead us to a better future.”

Under the Housepassed budget, teachers and support personnel, such as bus drivers, lunchroom workers, and others, earning less than $75,000 a year will receive a four percent salary increase while administrators and

others earning more than $75,000 will receive a two percent raise. The proposed ETF budget includes a four percent across-the-board pay raise for all community college employees. The budget also fully-funds health insurance and retirement program funding requests.

Speaker of the House Mike Hubbard (R – Auburn) noted that Republican passage of the Proration Prevention Act in 2011 allowed the quicker-than-expected repayment of more than $400 million that Democrats had siphoned from a rainy day account.

The repayment freed up significant funding that can now be redirected to successful classroom programs.

“This budget also includes significant increases in classroom spending for priorities like First Class Pre-K, distance learning, school technology, and Advanced Placement courses,” Hubbard said.

“When coupled with the funding we are providing to make us the first state

• Increased spending for textbooks ($8 million for FY2017 and $20.8 million over the past two years combined) and transportation ($13.5 million for FY2017 and $18 million over the past two years combined).

• Expansion of Alabama’s nationally-recognized voluntary Pre-Kindergarten program, known as First Class, with an additional $14 million in funding in FY2017 and $24.3 million over the past two years combined.

• A $3.1 million increase in funding for student materials ($6.1 million over the past two years combined) to prevent teachers from pay out-ofpocket for needed classroom supplies.

• Allowing local school systems to set priorities and meet urgent needs by providing an additional $47 million in discretionary “Other Current Expense” funding.

• Providing full funding for the Public Education Employees’ Health Insurance Program (PEEHIP) with a $20 million increase that is intended to avoid premium increases.

The ETF budget will now go to the State Senate for consideration.

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Friday–March 18, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

OBITUARIES W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel Mr. Douglas L. McGowan - Passed away March 8, 2016. Survivors include his wife of 47 years, 2 children - Michael McGowan and Jonathan McGowan, 7 grandchildren, Patrick McGowan, Coley McGowan, Ansley McGowan, Elenora Vera M c G owa n , Wi l l i a m McGowan, Benjamin McGowan and Josevine McGowan, daughters in law, Stephanie McGowan and special cousin Donny Williams.

Mr. John William Smith - 71 of Pell City passed away March 9, 2016. He is survived by his daughter, Dawn Melanie Michele (Jamie) Norris, sons, John (Mandy) Smith and Greg (Heather) Smith, brother Robert Smith, grandchildren, Zack (Rebecca) Lonergan, Ty (Victoria) L o n e rga n , Su m m e r Lonergan, Dallas Schell, Jacob Logan, Jaxon smith, Jordan (Courtney) Smith and Jaden Smith, greatgrandchildren, Mason Reed Smith, Onyx, Braylee, Maria, Antonio, Aiden Lonergan and Raiden Schell. He is preceded in death by his parents, Robert Lee and Susan Ida Smith, sisters, Lena Mae Wideman and Eloise Smith.

Mrs. Judy Lynn HudginsKnight - 49 of Collinsville passed away March, 9, 2016. Survivors include husband, Vero Knight, daughter, Tosha Nicole Knight, son, Corey Knight, mother Darlene Wray, 7 sisters Melissa thompson, Stacia Townson, Angela Smart, Christina Mallette, Michelle cook, amanda Kuzma and Mia Lee. Mrs. Hazel Mildred Fowler - 81 of Fort Payne passed away March, 10, 2016. Survivors, husband, Glen Fowler, son, David Fowler, sisters, Gail Morrison and Sale Stilment, grandchildren, Phil Bryant, Lance Bryant, Sean Fowler, David Paul Fowler and Ricky Snider, great-grandchildren, Morgan Bryant, Paige Bryant, Claire Bryant, Maddie Fowler and Cassidy

Fowler and 2 great great grandsons. She is preceded in death by her daughter, Marilyn (Fowler) Bryant.

Mr. Charles Buck Walker - Passed away March, 11, 2016. Survivors include, daughter, Anita Elliott, son, Charles Walker, sisters, Barb Lydic, Evelyn Bridwell, Debbie Nemergut, 3 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.

Mrs. Ruth Delzell - 87 of Rainsville passed away March 12, 2016. Survivors include, daughter Wanda Veal, grandchildren Barbara and Greg Gainey, Luwanda and Luther McKee, 7 great-grandchildren and 5 great-great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband Earl Delzell, grandson Thomas Parker, 3 sisters and 5 brother.

Mrs. Velma Romans - 92 of Dutton passed away March 13, 2016. She is survived by her daughter Peggy Romans Harper and Martha R Paschal, sons, Bill (gayle) Romans, Cecil (Dianne) Romans and Larry (Reita) Romans, sisters, Nell Burns, Grandchildren, Terry Chadwick, Adam Romans, John Bryant, Bradley Bryant, Shannon Paschal and Summer Draper, 22 great-grandchildren and 1 great greatgrandchild.

She is preceded in death by her husband Richard Roy Romans, son Roy Thomas “Sonny” Romans.

Mrs. Dane Marie Wisner - 96 of Rainsville passed away March 15, 2016.

Survivors include son and daughter-in-law Richy and Cheryl Wisner, sisters Flora Ashworth and Cleata Reynolds, grandchildren Patrick Wisner and Amanda Brisky, greatgrandchildren Amberly Wisner, Andrew Wisner and Elizabeth Brisky. She is preceded in death by her husband Clyde Wisner, parents Earnest and Myrtle Carlyle, brothers and sisters JJ “Junior” Carlyle, Oval Milican, Carthel Carlyle and Avil Dupree.

Corner Stone Funeral Chapel

& Crematory Mrs. Flora Adkins Holland - 82 of Higdon passed away March 9, 2016.

Survivors include daughters, Freida Butts (Joe), Nadine PArdue, Wynell Holly (Ken), Joann Burnettte (Jr.), Evalina Sanders (Terry), Margaret Brooks (Perry), sons, David Earl Holland, Charles Holland, grandchildren, Anita Baird (Aaron), Jonathan Basham, Eric Holley (Brandy), Aaron Holley (Lydia), Amber Burnette, Heather Hawkins (Brian), Hugh Burnette III, Christopher Holland (Ashley), Matthew Sanders, Shena Snaders, Bree Shrader (Josh) and Molly Brooks, 20 great-grandchildren, sister Hazel McDowell. She is preceded in death by her parents, Harvey and Lucy Manning Adkins, husband David Hilland, son, Terrell Holland, brother, Bill Adkins and sister, Eloise Lofty.

Mr. James “Donnie’ Donald Watkins - 57 of Henagar passed away March 10, 2016. Survivors include, daughter, Lindsey Watkins, parents Jimmy and Doris Watkins, Marie and Tommy Hughes, granddaughter, September Tomlinson, sister, Karen Watkins Hansard, brothers, Glenn Watkins, Johnny Hughes, step-son Josh Hicks, best friend Peanut, several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Dollie Rose Zaletel Fraley - 79 of Fort Payne passed away March 10, 2016. Survivors include, d a u g h te r s Thresia Blakenship (Paul) Gwen Parton (Eddie), Edwina “Pooh” Floyd, sons, Richard Fraley Jr., Kevin Fraley, step-children, Mike Fraley, Lynn Fraley, 9 grandchildren, 14 great-children, brothers, Kenneth Zaletel, Samuel Zaletel, sisters, Faye Angelski, Elaine Fortier and Vivian Exum.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Antone and Nadine Higginbotham Zaletel, husband Edward Gilstrap and Richard Fraley Sr. Mr. Dennie Delano Shoemaker - 60 of Ooltewah, TN passed away

March 12, 2016. Survivors include wife, Shirley McCarson Shoemaker, sister Cathy Burns (tommy) and friend. He is preceded in death by his parents John and Shirley Hughes Shoemaker.

Mr. Wade “Dub” Donald Mitchell - 84 of Henagar passed away March 13, 2016. Survivors include, sisters, Laura Ball, Betty Wootten, Gracie Sauers, brothers, Eldridge Mitchell, Billy Mitchell (Joyce), several nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Dolores Hughes McFadden - 84 of Red Bank, TN passed away March 13, 2016 . Survivors include brother, Tommy Hughes (Marie), nephew, Johnny Hughes (Georgia) and niece Alisa Lonas. She is preceded in death by her parents, John Thomas Sr. and Willie Matilda Johnson Hughes, husband, John D McFadden Jr. and sister Phyllis McDonald.

Mrs. Betty Katherine Gamble - 88 of Flat Rock passed away March 14, 2016. Survivors include daughters, Diane Gilliand, Carolyn Hurt (David), Kathy Wells (Tommy), son, William Gamble, grandchildren, Joey Gilliand (Tracy), Jason Gilliand (Jennifer), Ashley Bunch (Brad), Parker Hurt (Shannon), Emily Sloan (Steve), great-grandchildren, Gracie, Peyton and Cole Gilliand, Baylor and Banks Bunch, Drew Cooper, Molly sloan, Chandler Hurt, brothers, Troy Smith (sue), Bron Smith (Jeanette), several nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Dorothy Crowe Harris - Age 89 of Belle Glade, FL. formerly of Henagar passed away March 14, 2016. Funeral services are Sunday at 3 p.m. at Corner Stone Funeral Chapel. Burial will follow in Chestnut Grove cemetry. Family will receive friends from 6 to 8 Saturday and 12 until service time on Sunday.

Survivors include daughters, Wanda Spires (James), Cindy Aceituno (Url), sons Don Crowe (Helen), Gary Crowe (Janice), Steve Crowe, 13 grandchildren, several great-grandchil-

dren and great greatgrandchildren and brother R A Lea.

Wilson Funeral Home & Crematory Mr. Vealdor T. Prater - 94 of McDonald, TN. formerly of Fort Payne passed away March 8, 2016. Survivors include son, Kenneth Prater (Norma), daughters, Rita Prater and Sandra Treen (Jamie), brother, Malcolm Prater, sister, Myrtle Vaughn, grandchildren, Nathan Prater (Amy), Jonathan Prater (Stacy), Rebecca Prater, David Prater )Nichole), Lynn Goodwin McKinney (Robert) and Jessica Summers Williams (John) and 12 great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his wife Dorothy Bailey Prater.

Mr. Ray E. McAbee - 86 of Fort Payne passed away March 8, 2016. Survivors include his wife of 65 years, Betty McAbee, son and daughter-in-law, Chris and Karen McAbee, daughter, Amanda McAbee, grandsons, Nicholas McAbee, Nathan McAbee and Baeden McAbee. He was preceded in death by brothers, Willard McAbee, Duard McAbee and Herbert McAbee and sister Jessie Chamlee.

Mr. Donald L Templeton, Sr. - 74 of Fort Payne passed away March 8, 2016. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Jolene Massey Templeton, sons and daughters-in-law Donald Jr. and Angelea Templeton and Derrick and Crystal Templeton, brother, Randall Templeton, sisters, Elaine McGruder and Pam Templeton, grandchildren, Kylie, Lexe, Kelsee, Dylan Race, Brayden and Bailey-Bug Templeton, special nieces Karen, Sherry and Lisa and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He is preceded in death by his sister, Helen Argo and grandson Dustan Kyle Templeton.

Continued from page 1

Fort Payne man convicted of manslaughter, gets 30 years in the passenger seat, was pronounced dead at the scene of the wreck.

Blevins was originally charged with murder and kidnapping, charges that were eventually reduced to manslaughter in a plea agreement reached between Blevins, his attorney, and the Ninth Circuit District Attorney Mike O’Dell. Blevins was also ordered to pay an Attorney Fee Reimbursement and court costs associated with his prosecution.

"This is tragic case, once again revealing the deadly results of individuals high on illegal drugs," District Attorney Mike O'Dell stated. "Investigative reports from the Department of Forensics Sciences indicated that Blevins had multiple drugs in his system including Diazepam, Methamphetamine, and amphetamine in his system. There is no question in my mind that drug abuse and addiction

was the major cause of his actions, resulting in the senseless death of Ms. Ivey. There did not appear to be an intent on Blevins' part to take Ms. Ivey's life.

Ms. Ivey was reportedly Blevins' girlfriend. Her life has been taken at an early age, and his freedom has been taken from him. This tragedy could have been avoided, and both lives spared of the results from Blevins' actions."

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Friday–March 18, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Never surrender

Sylvania had great pitchers for their 16 inning, 4 hour game against Collinsville.

Pictured is Senior Levi Bass.

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

Sylvania 5, Collinsville 4

SYLVANIA, Ala.—The Sylvania Rams defeated the Collinsville Panthers 5-4 Saturday night in a 4 hour, 16 inning game.

Fans enjoyed the warmer weather as the Rams took on the Panthers for what was assumed to be a just a regular season game.

Both teams kept the fans in suspense as inning after inning the game was a slugfest to the bitter end. “It was a long game. It could have went either way. Both teams had a lot of chances” said Sylvania Head Coach Josh Moon. “I threw a lot of pitchers. We played hard and never gave up. That's what makes me proud as a coach.”

Drake Casey was the winning pitcher for the Rams. He pitched for 5 innings. He struck out five and walked two.

Blake Spears and Phillip Dendy each had 3 hits. Hunter Miller and Landry Bowen finished out the night with 2 apiece.

Pisgah Softball holds round robin tournament

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

PISGAH, Ala.—The Pisgah Lady Eagles held a round robin tournament this past weekend. Local teams including Sylvania, Ider, North Jackson, Skyline, North Sand Mountain and Pisgah participated. Ider defeated Sylvania in the final game of the tournament.

Ider Lady Hornets faced the North Sand Mountain Lady Bisons to start tournament play.

Ider defeated North Sand Mountain 15-1. Senior Makenzie Hughes took the win on the mound for the Lady Hornets. She pitched for three innings and struck out four.

Sylvania Lady Rams defeated Skyline 6-4 Friday night. Bethany Davis was on the mound for the Rams. She pitched six innings allowing four runs and

walking two.

North Jackson Lady Chiefs shut out the Ider Lady Hornets 2-0. Jacey Norman took the loss on the mound for Ider. She pitched five innings and only gave up two runs.

Pisgah Lady Eagles shut out the Ider Lady Hornets 7-0. Shelby Hawkins took the loss on the mound for the Lady Hornets. She pitched three innings giving up four earned runs.

North Jackson defeated the Sylvania Lady Rams 4-3. Payton Davidson took the loss on the mound for Sylvania, striking out six but giving up four runs. Bethany Davis hit a homerun for the Rams.

Sylvania Lady Rams defeated North Sand Mountain 11-1. Bethany Davis took the win on the mound for the Rams. She pitched five innings only giving up one hit. She struck out nine. Senior

Fyffe takes down the Bears

Seth Benefield swings for the fence.

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

Fyffe 9, Plainview 7 RAINSVILLE, Ala.—The Fyffe Red Devils defeated the Plainview Bears 9-7 on Saturday.

Will Mashburn was the winning pitcher striking out 4 and only allowing one run in three innings. Brady Carson pitched the last inning

for the save striking out 2.

At the plate Brant Rowell had 4 hits and 3 runs scored. Cyle Collins, Seth Benefield, Tyler Ashley and Jase Jones all had a RBI. Will Mashburn had a double.

Seth Benefield scored 2 runs. Ethan Jones, Carter Hilley, Cyle Collins and Will Mashburn scored one run a piece.

Collinsville places second in tournament

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com Sylvania went 2-3 in the Pisgah round robin tournament over the weekend.

Madison Burt had a homerun and four RBI’s.

In the final game of the Pisgah round robin tournament, Ider Lady Hornets shut out the Sylvania Lady Rams, 2-0. For Ider, Makenzie Hughes pitched four innings, striking out two and shutting out the Rams with no hits. In the last two innings, Jacey Norman took over pitching duties, striking out five batters.

FAN OF THE WEEK! The Southern Torch Fan of the Week is Mitchell Dendy.

Mitchell is the “Golden Voice” of the Sylvania Rams Baseball Team. Mitchell loves being the announcer for the baseball team and cheering on his son Phillip during his last season as a Sylvania Ram! Submit your photos to marla@southerntorch.com for your chance to be our next Southern Torch Fan of the Week!!

Cleburne County 5, Collinsville 1 CHEROKEE COUNTY, Ala.—Collinsville Lady Panthers defeated Fort Payne, Appalachian and Gadsden City to face Cleburne County in the final round of the Cherokee County Invitational.

The Collinsville Lady Panthers defeated Fort Payne Lady Wildcats 4-3. From the mound, Mary Patton held the Lady Wildcats to two hits.

In the second game of the tournament, Collinsville shut out Appalachian behind excellent pitching by Emma Barkley.

The third game of the Invitational was a close game between

Collinsville Lady Panthers defeated three teams in tournament to advance to Championship play this weekend.

Collinsville and Gadsden City with Collinsville taking the win with a score of 3-2.

Mary Patton is credited for the win, striking out four.

In the championship game, Cleburne County defeated Collinsville with a score of 5-1 only allowing Collinsville two hits.

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Friday–March 18, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Baseball Box Scores Setting the bar high March 8-March 15, 2016 Fyffe 9, Plainview 7 Fort Payne 4, Plainview 3 Sylvania 5, Gaston 4 Sylvania 10, Cedar Bluff 4 Fyffe 8, Ider 1 Westbrook 20, Geraldine 4 Crossville 3, Sardis 0 Ashville 12, Crossville 6

Boaz 5, Crossville 1 Fyffe 12, Collinsville 9 Collinsville 11, Skyline Boaz 11, Fort Payne 1 Onenota 10, Fort Payne 0 Onenota 14, Fort Payne 4 Fort Payne 4, Plainview 3 Plainview 13, NSM 3

Softball Box Scores

March 8-March 15, 2016 Sylvania 16, Section 1 Pisgah 12, Sylvania 2 Sylvania 6, Skyline 4 North Jackson 4, Sylvania 3 Sylvania 11, NSM 1 Ider 2, Sylvania 0 Plainview 15, NSM 0 Ider 7, North Jackson 2 Pisgah 7, Ider 0 Section 11, Geraldine 2 Collinsville 4, Fort Payne 3 Collinsville 5, Applachian 0 Collinsville 3, Gadsden City 2

Sand Rock 6, Geraldine 1 Crossville 3, Sardis 0 Pell City 15, Crossville 0 Crossville 4, Woodville 0 Ider 10, Collinsville 4 Collinsville 19, Cherokee Co 3 Pisgah 12, Fort Payne 4 Spring Garden 1, Fort Payne 0 Fort Payne 12, Gaylesville 1 Scottsboro 6, Fort Payne 4 Fyffe 11, Cedar Bluff 0 Sand Rock 1, Fyffe 0 Fyffe 9, Randolph Co 1

SPOTLIGHT ON COACHES

GERALDINE, Ala.—The Southern Torch featured coach of the week is Coach Jamie Gilbert, Head Baseball Coach at Geraldine High School.

Members of the Fort Payne Wildcat weightlifting team are as follows: Top row, from left, Michael Shaddix, Austin Weldon, Jordan Walls, Gladston Patterson, Marcus Chaney, Colton Blevins, Victor Lyles, Jonathan Allen, Andrew McBrayer, Logan Hulsey, Jake Newton and Connor Shrader. Front row, from left, Anna McElrath, Hannah Locklear, Avery Chadwick, Sydney Fobbus, Mckenzie Camp, Larissa Roe and Bailey Barnes.

Photo submitted by Christie Chaney

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

ELMORE COUNTY, Ala.— The Fort Payne High School Weightlifting Team took home the Class 6A State Title in the Alabama State Weightlifting Championship on Saturday.

Of the 19 students carried to the meet, 16 placed in either the bench press, squat or power clean event of the competition. Victor Lyles took home one individual title for the boys and the girls took home three titles.

In the girls division for the Fort Payne Wildcats, Senior Larissa Roe broke a state power clean record in her weight class lifting 125 pounds and came in first

Coach Gilbert graduated from Geraldine in 1987. He went to Wallace State where he played baseball and majored in Drafting. Fifteen years later, Gilbert decided he needed a career change. He enrolled at Snead State and then moved on to Jacksonville State University where he received his degree in Elementary Education.

Gilbert said he has been married to his beautiful wife Jennifer for nearly 25 wonderful years. . They have three children, Tray 22, Riley 19 and Brady 17. Brady is a Junior at Geraldine and plays on the Bulldogs baseball team.

Gilbert said his goals for this season are simple— to repeat winning the area tournament this year and to make it back to the playoffs.

Those who spend time with Gilbert say he is a Godly man on and off the field. His favorite quote is one from the pastor of his church, “We’re all a bunch of good for nothings, but with God on our side, we can be good for something!”

Southern Torch would like to wish Coach Gilbert and the Geraldine Bulldogs team best of luck during their season.

place, lifting on three lifts with a total of 415 pounds. Senior Hannah Locklear tied the record on clean with a 135pound lift and placed first in her division with total weight of 430 pounds.

Senior Sydney Fobbus placed fourth with a total lift of 355 pounds.

Sophomore grader McKenzie Camp came in third in her class with a total lift of 435.

Freshman Anna McElrath broke the state squat record with 245 pounds and placed first in her division. Freshman Bailey Barnes placed 3rd in her division with 380 pounds. Third grader Avery Chadwick participated in the meet and her total lift was an impressive 145 pounds, defeating older lifters.

In the boys division for the Fort Payne Wildcats, Michael

Shaddix blew away all of the competition with the best power clean of the meet with a 300-pound lift. Freshmen Connor Shrader and Jordan Walls each placed in their division. Shrader placed second with a total of 570 pounds. Walls came in fourth with a total of 515 pounds. Sophomore Jake Newton placed fifth in his division with 825 pounds.

Five juniors excelled in their divisions. Victor Lyles took home an individual title with 985 pounds. Michael Shaddix placed second with a total of 955 pounds. Jonathan Allen and Andrew McBrayer each placed fourth in their divisions. Allen had 890 pounds. McBrayer had 760 pounds. Austin Weldon was awarded 5th place with a 770 pound total lift.

Catch of the Week!

Farley Rainer is the Southern Torch Catch of the Week winner! Farley is enjoying fishing during this beautiful spring weather!

Submit your photos to marla@southerntorch.com to be our next Catch of the Week winner!

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Friday–March 18, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH