The Southern Torch, Vol. 2, No. 4

THE SOUTHERN TORCH / FRIDAY, JANUARY 22, 2016 / VOL. 2, NO. 4 / $1.00

COMMUNITY

FAITH

POLITICS

COLLINSVILLE LOSES A BELOVED MEMBER OF THE COMMUNITY > PAGE 3

A MOMENT WITH MEGAN: UNFRIEND HIM

BERNIE SANDERS VISITS MAGIC CITY

> PAGE 6

> PAGE 9

And then there were four DeKalb County Tournament enters semifinals

By Joseph M. Morgan joseph@southerntorch.com

DEKALB CO., Ala.— Only four teams remain as the DeKalb County tournament enters the semifinal round tonight at the DeKalb County Schools Coliseum in Rainsville. In the varsity boys tournament, on Friday, Jan. 22, Sylvania will face Plainview at 6 p.m., followed by the 7:30 p.m. matchup of Geraldine vs. Crossville.

The winner of tonight’s games will face each other in the DeKalb County Tournament Championship Finals tomorrow night, Saturday, Jan. 23 at

DeKalb County Schools Coliseum at 7:45 p.m.

In varsity girls action, the semifinals winner of the Sylvania vs.

Collinsville will face the winner of the Crossville vs. Ider matchup. The varsity girls DeKalb County Tournament Championship Finals is also tomorrow night, Saturday, Jan. 23 at DeKalb County Schools Coliseum at 6 p.m. preceding the boys county championship final. For more on the 2016 DeKalb County Tournament, see Sports, p. 10.

Sylvania swears in new mayor

Gerald Craig (left) being sworn in as mayor by Sylvania City Clerk Marla Fairley (left)

By Tyler Pruett tyler@southerntorch.com

SYLVANIA, AL — On Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2016 the Sylvania City Council moved to appoint a new mayor in the wake of Emily Wooten’s resignation. Wooten resigned on

Jan. 7 when the city council convened for a special meeting to assign departmental duties. The unexpected resignation left Councilman Gerald Craig to serve as mayor pro tem until the next regularly scheduled meeting and the council could vote on a replacement. On Tuesday, the council elected Craig to serve as mayor for the remainder of the term.

When asked about his plans for the city going forward, Craig stated that currently the city is, “transitioning from reactive to proactive,” as the resignation came, “suddenly and unexpectedly.” After being CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

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Body of gunshot victim found

By Joseph M. Morgan joseph@southerntorch.com

IDER, Ala.—Earlier this week DeKalb Sheriff’s Deputies along with officers from the Ider Police Department and Henagar Police Department discovered a body near Ider Church of Christ on Alabama Hwy 75 after locating a vehicle suspected to have been involved in a earlier shooting in Jackson County.

Police located the vehicle in the parking lot of Ider Church of Christ early Wednesday morning. After locating the vehicle, police began searching the area around the church and a hayfield in the back of the church. During the search more extensive search of the area, law enforcement discovered the body of a white male with a gunshot wound to

the head.

After the body was found, Jackson County and DeKalb County Investigators were called to the scene and the body was transported to the Alabama Department of Forensic Science for positive identification.

DeKalb County Sheriff Jimmy Harris said the investigation is still underway.

“This appears to be a domestic violence situation, but it is early in the investigation,” Harris said. “We are working in conjunction with Jackson County Sheriff Chuck Phillips and his investigators on this case. Thank you to the Ider Police, Henagar Police, Deputies, DeKalb and Jackson Investigators for the great work on this case.”

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 Whole Backstage presents Almost, Maine The Whole Backstage in Guntersville will present Almost, Maine, Feb. 5-6, and 11-13 at 7 p.m. with Sunday Matinees on Feb. 7 and 14 at 2 p.m., directed

by Rich Resler and assisted

by Denise Resler. This WBS main stage production of…

Pages 4

THIS WEEK IN POLITICS

Sen. Phil Williams responds to attacks from political blog

Alabama Sen. Phil Williams released a scathing statement this week to an article written by political blogger Bill Britt that recently appeared in the Alabama Political Reporter…

Page 8

THIS WEEK IN SPORTS

Collinsville Lady Panthers burn the Devils The Collinsville Lady Panthers took on the Fyffe Lady Devils Monday night in the first round of the 2016 DeKalb County Tournament. The Lady Panthers defeated the Devils 66-49 to advance on to the semi finals game to be held Thursday night.

The first oalf of the tournament game was dominated by the Lady Panthers. They went into the half with a 30-12 lead against the Lady Devils…

Page 10 PRESORTED STANDARD MAIL U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

PERMIT NO. 60 RAINSVILLE, AL

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Friday–January 22, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Publisher, Joseph M. Morgan Layout editor, Dwayne Adams

Southern Torch Valentine’s Day Giveaway!

By Angie Reynoso angie@southerntorch.com

RAINSVILLE, Ala.— Southern Torch is awarding dinner and a movie for two! Post a photo of yourself and your Valentine on our

facebook page from Feb.1, 2016 - Feb.7, 2017 for your chance to win a romantic dinner for two at Wildflower Cafe and two tickets for a movie of your choice at Fort Payne Cinemas. The photo with the most likes and

comments will be the lucky winner and will be announced Feb. 8, 2016.

A brief article and your photo will be in our Feb. 12, 2016 issue.

Don’t be shy and send in your photo’s.

ries.

cuss upcoming renewal of their franchise agreement for Tuesday, Jan. 26 at 5 p.m.

Fort Payne Council addresses pedestrian safety, approves licensing

By Joseph M. Morgan joseph@southerntorch.com

FORT PAYNE, AL— The Fort Payne City Council Tuesday, Jan. 19

for a regularly scheduled council meeting. The council conducted a fairly routine meeting, taking up the following

business::

• Approved Minutes • Motion made to approve payments to accounts, motion carries.

• Road department reports that the crosswalk and sidewalk improvements are complete at the Heil facility.

• Motion made to close hearing to receive comments on proposed issuance of a retail liquor license for the Mid-Town Cafe and Grill, motion carries.

• Motion made to approve retail liquor license for Mid-Town Cafe and Grill, motion carries.

• Motion made to approve an activity permit for the Dekalb Shrine Club Benefit Motorcycle Ride at the Rotary Pavilion on Saturday, April 2, 2016, motion carries.

• Meeting adjourned.

• Motion to approve expenditure for crosswalk lighting in downtown Fort Payne, motion car-

• The council set a work session for Taylor Vice, representing Charter Communications to dis-

The next regularly scheduled council meeting will be on Tuesday, Feb. 2 at 6 p.m.

By Tyler Pruett tyler@southerntorch.com

membership benefits provided by the city

The Rainsville City Council had a productive meeting Monday night.

The council discussed a number of issues and addressed the following business:

• The council approved a motion to use $495,000 of money from the city’s bridge fund to pay debt owed for construction performed at the city’s wastewater treatment plant

the city involving a recent USDA Loan and bond and sewer work.

Recap of Rainsville Council meeting

• Approved a measure that makes changes to the city’s employee fitness incentives provided by local gym, Body Vision in effort to encourage city employees to take advantage of reduced gym

• Approved a motion to hire local attorney David Ware and attorney David Rigelstien from Birmingham firm Balch and Bingham to complete legal work on behalf of

• Approved a motion to spend $1,650 to purchase an icemaker to be used to help prepare required water samples taken and stored at the wastewater treatment facility.

• Approved a motion to enter an agreement with GEK The Rainsville City Council will meet again on Feb. 1, 2016.

Continued from page 1

Sylvania swears in new Mayor officially elected as the new mayor, Craig can now start looking towards the future. He plans to consult with city employees and the council to formulate the best strategy for the city going forward. While plans still need to be made, the new mayor wants the first priority to be on infrastructure.

“Our streets are in bad shape already, and the heavy rains around Christmas has caused more problems,” Craig said. Another major priority will be economic development in Sylvania.

“We’d like to be able to bring in franchise

businesses to our town to provide more jobs for our residents. This can be a challenge in a small town,” Craig added.

In terms of good news, Mayor Craig was happy to announce that Alabama’s Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division has informed the town that Dekalb County Lake will be reopened in June of this year. The lake, which is located in Sylvania, was closed two years ago by the state to be drained and have improvements made to the shoreline and bottom. “We’re looking forward to the reopen. The closure has

really hurt the city,” Craig said.

Craig will serve out the rest of the term left by the previous mayor, but when asked if he would run for the position when his term is up, Craig said, “As of now I’m not planning on running for mayor, but as the saying goes, never say never.”

His appointment also means that Sylvania will have a vacant city councilman position.

And while the circumstances could be better, Mayor Craig stated that he, “appreciates the trust placed in me by the citizens of Sylvania and the former mayor.”

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Friday–January 22, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

COMMUNITY

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

Richey reaches milestone in recovery RAINSVILLE, Ala.— Plainview student Bryson Richey had a huge week last week. On Thursday, Richey was given his prosthetic leg from Fourroux Prosthetics in Huntsville.

“Bryson was very excited to get his

prosthetic. He wasn’t worried about not being able to use it. He just took to it right off. Within minutes he was walking normally,” Bryson’s mom, Danielle Richey, said..

“We were all crying and just so happy for him. His sisters and grandparents were there also. Next steps are continued healing and toughening

of scar tissue so he can wear it for longer periods.

Physical therapy to get muscles used to different leg. His main goal is getting back to walking with prosthetic full time.

Then running. Then playing sports again.”

On Nov. 8, 2015, hundreds gathered in Rainsville for the first Bryson Strong 5K. Overall, the community raised $34,000 for Bryson. “It had no set

goal but the money raised was totally unexpected and we were blessed,” Danielle said.

In August of 2015, Bryson was involved in an ATV accident a few days before starting school. Days later in the hospital, Danielle noticed her son’s foot was cold.

Doctors said his blood flow had been cut off during the accident.

Bryson later had his leg amputated.

passed away on Jan. 18.

Mrs. Roberts had been a resident of Collinsville since 2009, and resided there with her daughter Gloria Morgan and her son-in-law, Rev. John E. Morgan.

Mary Roberts is survived by two sisters, Lillie Jones and Ruth Davidson. She is also survived by her son Walter Newt Roberts III and daughters Mary Willis and Gloria Morgan, as well as grandchildren Troy Willis, Jennifer Willis, John Morgan III, Mark Morgan, Matthew Morgan, Joseph Morgan and nine

great-grandchildren.

Mrs. Roberts was preceded in death by her devoted husband Walter Newt Roberts, Jr., her beloved parents Joel and Floy Booth Lawrence, her sister Irene Busby, her brothers James Lawrence and Tommy Lawrence.

For as long as her health allowed, Mrs. Roberts was very active in the Collinsville community and a regular each week at Collinsville Baptist Church and at Collinsville Trade Day when the weather permitted. Although she only lived in Collinsville for 7 years, Mrs. Roberts

quickly won the love of her church family at Collinsville Baptist and countless others throughout the community who adopted her as their own.

A celebration of her life will begin with a gathering of family and friends at Cole and Garrett Funeral Home in Goodlettsville, Tenn. on Jan. 22 from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. and will continue the following day, Saturday, Jan. 23 with a service at 10 a.m. at Faith Baptist Church. The burial and graveside ceremony will be at Spring Hill Cemetery, in

Nashville, Tenn. followed by a fellowship dinner at Faith Baptist Church.

For her friends, loved ones and church family in Collinsville, a separate ceremony is being held this Sunday, Jan. 24 at 5 p.m. at Collinsville Baptist Church here in DeKalb County.

The family would like to express thanks to all who have been a part of the life of Mary Lorena Roberts and invite any who would like to attend to join them in the celebration of her 96 years of God’s faithfulness and her graduation to her eternal Home.

classical literary work by Miguel de Cervantes about a nobleman obsessed with ancient chivalry. Don Quixote and his trusty servant Sancho Panza battle imaginary enemies in order to rescue Dulcinea, the lady of his dreams.

“We always enjoy bringing the Alabama Ballet back to our area,” stated NACC President Dr. David Campbell. “The

Alabama Ballet is a highly accomplished and nationally recognized company and in addition to their skills and talents in dance, they will provide a spectacular show with their costumes, stage lighting and sound.”

NACC urges you to purchase your tickets early. Tickets are $10 per person and current NACC students are $5.00 with

student ID. For tickets, go to https://www.showclix. com/event/alabamaballet-don-quixote or visit www.nacc.edu for a link to purchase with a credit card, or call Heather Rice, Director of Development, at 256-638-4418 or 256-228-6001, ext. 2248.

You can also purchase tickets on campus in Room 145 in the Pendley Administration Building.

Scene from Don Quixote by the Alabama Ballet.

By Karah Wilson karah@southerntorch.com

Plainview student Bryson Richey is back on his feet. Recovering from a 4-wheeler accident that required amputation, Richey was recently fitted with a prothetic that allows him to walk again for the first time in months.

Collinsville loses a beloved member of the community Collinsville resident Mary Lprena Roberts (Right) pictured with daughter Gloria Morgan and grandson Joseph Morgan. Mrs. Roberts passed away earlier this week. She celebrated her 96th birthday earlier this month.

By Joseph M. Morgan joseph@southerntorch.com

COLLINSVILLE, Ala.— Collinsville lost a beloved resident earlier this week when Mary Lorena Roberts, 96,

Alabama Ballet to perform Don Quixote at NACC

By Staff Reports

RAINSVILLE, Ala.—Northeast Alabama Community College (NACC) is proud to be hosting the performance of Don Quixote on Sat., Feb. 13 at 7 p.m. in the Tom Bevill Lyceum. This will be the tenth year the Alabama Ballet has performed at NACC. Don Quixote is a

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Friday–January 22, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

COMMUNITY

One of the best views in Alabama

The view from Weathington Park at sunset. Photo by Tyler Pruett.

By Tyler Pruett tyler@southerntorch.com

SECTION, Ala.— Many people traveling Highway 35 through Section in Jackson County are probably unaware of a special spot on Section Bluff. It would be hard for anyone not to notice the view of the Tennessee River and the

surrounding mountains, but a simple sign marked “Weathington Park” as the highway descends down Sand Mountain can be easily missed. Those that choose to stop are met with one of the most scenic views to be found in Alabama. The breathtaking view extends across Lake Guntersville to the

southwest, and far down the Tennessee River all the way to Stevenson to the northeast. Currently the park features only a half-mile walking track and a parking lot in terms of amenities, but more are being planned for the future. But with this picturesque scenery, what else is needed?

The park is the result of a selfless decision by a man who fell in love with the spot over 20 years ago. Scott Weathington, an avid motorcycle rider, regularly stopped to take in the view while on rides down Highway 35. At the time the spot was known as “Twin Eagle Point,” and it was here that Mr. Weathington befriended longtime Section Police Chief Bob Matthews. As the years would progress,

the motorcyclist would become a successful industrialist, even owning his own corporation, while the Police Chief would become mayor of the small town.

Mr. Weathington’s wife, Patty, also fell in love with the spot while on regular rides through Dekalb and Jackson counties. After Scott’s professional success, the couple managed to purchase the 13 acre tract of land on the bluffs, and planned their dream home on their favorite spot. While getting ready to break ground on their new home, Scott realized that their home would block much of the view that they had fell in love with years ago. In an act of complete selflessness,

the Weathington’s donated the almost million dollar piece of land to the city, and with the help of their old friend Bob Matthews, created a park with a view that few others can boast. The park was officially dedicated as “Weathington Park” in June 2012, and residences of Section along with travelers on Highway 35 have a place of their own to enjoy the view. If you were previously unaware of this hidden gem, take the time to stop by before descending Sand Mountain. While gazing at the miles of mountains and water, one can easily understand why the Weathington’s sacrificed their dream home just to preserve the view for future generations.

Guntersville community theater to host auditions

Sad and Glad: Jon Lambert of Albertville, Caitlin Adams of Union Grove, Sarah Haining of Grant

By Staff Reports

GUNTERSVILLE, Ala.— The Whole Backstage in Guntersville will hold auditions for the comedy, Dixie Swim Club Jan. 28-29 at 6:30 p.m. and Jan. 30 at 10 a.m. In April, Director Diane DuBoise and Assistant Director Kate Bilke Griffith will bring to life this touching, Southern story that reveals a humorous testament to the

enduring power of friendship.

Award-winning writers, Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope and Jamie Wooten created this stage play, along with other works: Dearly Beloved, Christmas Belles, and Southern Hospitality. In addition, Jones was a writer and producer for The Golden Girls, the highly-acclaimed television series. The Dixie Swim Club tells the tale of five close-knit

Southern women, whose friendships began many years ago on their college swim team. For more than three decades, they have met at a beach cottage on a long weekend every August to recharge those relationships. As their lives unfold and the years pass, these women increasingly rely on each another and their special teamwork to get through life’s challenges.

The ensemble cast for

Dixie Swim Club is comprised of 5 women.

The story covers a 33 year time-span, requiring that all actors be aged up or down at some point during the performance.

The characters will be portrayed at ages 44, 49, 54 and 77. Onstage make-up, wigs and costuming will be used to age cast members appropriately. Casting should be completed by Feb. 2, and will be posted on www.wholebackstage.

com and at the WBS theatre.

This 2016 WBS main stage production of Dixie Swim Club will be in performance April 15-16, 21-23 at 7 p.m. and Sunday Matinees on April 17 and 24 at 2 p.m. at 1120 Rayburn Avenue.

For more information, call 256-582-7469 or visit the website: www. wholebackstage.com or Facebook.

The Whole Backstage presents Almost, Maine

Story of Hope: Jon Lambert of Albertville, Sarah Haining of This Hurts: Grant Lackey of Arab, Claire Adams of Union Grant Grove

By Staff Reports remote and mythical Ruhlman; Horton:

GUNTERSVILLE, Ala.— The Whole Backstage in Guntersville will present Almost, Maine, Feb. 5-6, and 11-13 at 7 p.m. with Sunday Matinees on Feb. 7 and 14 at 2 p.m., directed by Rich Resler and assisted by Denise Resler. This WBS main stage production of Almost, Maine, tells numerous and brief, love-themed stories, well-suited for the upcoming Valentine season.

“This play centers on the residents of the

town of Almost, Maine, and through a series of vignettes, a few fall in and out of love in unexpected and humorous ways. There are several newcomers to the Whole Backstage as well as familiar faces in this production,” says Director Rich Resler.

The Almost, Maine Cast and Crew includes, from Albertville: Allen Jolley, Jon Lambert, Jaime Williams; Guntersville: Jon Brown, Celeste Stapler, Butch Starnes, Jim Anders, Dick Ruhlman, Susan

Shyann Farmer; Grant: Molly Montgomery, Sarah Haining; Arab: Taylor Hyatt, Grant Lackey, Bob Copeland, Mary Copeland ; Union Grove: Caitlin Adams, Claire Adams Tickets for Almost, Maine may be purchased by calling the WBS office at 256-582-7469, or by visiting the office at 1120 Rayburn Avenue in Guntersville during business hours 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday, or by visiting the website www.wholebackstage.com.

Upcoming events Jan. 23: Open House at the MERF House - We will have refreshments, door prizes, and readings by some of our Mentone writers’ groups. Free books for all Friends of the Library. A local author, Greg Starnes, will be there with some of his books and a special reading. 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Jan. 27: Desiree Million at the Abbey - Come enjoy vocals and keyboard original blues songs by Desiree Million. Ticket price includes coffee and dessert. 10 tickets available per show. The Abbey is located in Mentone. Show time 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Call 256-251-3780 for details.

Feb. 2: Power of Black History - Come enjoy Senator Hank Sander’s presentation on the power of Black History. NACC Music Auditorium-William M. Beck Fine Arts and Health Building 9:45 a.m. Contact Chasley Bellomy for more info. Call 256-638-4418 for details.

Feb. 2-Feb. 3: Loomis Bro. Circus - Come and enjoy the show! Circus features performing elephants, white tigers, dogs , ponies, acrobats, clowns, jugglers ,trapeze and more! There are two shows 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Doors open an hour before each show. Tickets are $20 for adults, two children age 12 and under are admitted free when accompanied by paying adult, additional children are $8 cash only is accepted at the circus. Shows last one hour and 45 minutes. Call 256-638-1650 for details.

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Friday–January 22, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

BUSINESS

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT ADVERTISE HERE FOR A LOW WEEKLY RATE!!!

• Our special "Business Spotlight" section will debut in our February 5th issue.

• Participating businesses may purchase a 2"x 2" ad at the low weekly rate of $12.50 (Billed Monthly)

• Each week, one business will be featured in a large ad in the center, rotating weekly.

• Contact Angie at 256.638.4040 or angie@southerntorch.com to purchase your place in the spotlight!

RAINSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

CHAMBER CHATTER

January 21, 2016 Tim Eberhart, Executive Director Eight, 153, 28 and 6,000. My head is full of numbers this week. Fifty seven, 20 and 773.

They may seem random, but they are not.

Eight is the number of persons who, as of this week, are first-time members of our volunteer board of directors. We have five other directors who were first-time directors last January. It’s great to see such a solid number of business people from a variety of backgrounds willing to step boldly into the unknown to try to help make a difference in the community.

We presently have 153 members. Twenty eight is the number of businesses that have been members of the Rainsville Chamber for 20 consecutive years or more.

We awarded 6,000 dollars in college scholarships in May of 2015, and I expect that we will do the same amount again this May. It will likely be in the form of four $1,500 scholarships, as it was last year. A good number of Plainview High School and Cornerstone Christian Academy seniors are eligible. The applications are going to be refined in the next few weeks, but they should be available by early March.

Fifty seven is the number of days until the all-new Southern Home & Family Show on March 18-20 at the Agri-Business Center.

Excel Events Group is sponsoring it. Contact them at 256-605-1801 if you would like to try to get a booth to show off your products and services.

Twenty is the number of dollars Chamber members save off the tuition price for the Glenn Shepard seminar on February 4. It’s $149 per person for non-members. For companies with a lot of managers and supervisors, it’s four for the price of three!

Shepard is a business leadership guru who has authored several books on management including How to Manage Problem Employees and How To Be the Employee Your Company Can’t Live Without. The seminar will be over at Scottsboro this year, but our members should sign up through our office.

Seven hundred and seventy three is the number of “likes” the Rainsville Chamber’s Facebook page had on January 19. We are looking for more ways to make people glad they “like” us. If you are not one of the 773, find us on Facebook today and click the “like” button.

It’s free, and if you are not completely satisfied, you are free to “unlike” us whenever you like.

January 20, 2016 Carol Beddingfield, Executive Director Alabama Secretary of State John Merrill will be the keynote speaker for the Chamber Banquet on Thursday, January 21st at 6 PM at the DeKalb Theatre.

Mr. Merrill will give an update on the activities of his office.

Subjects will include the photo voter identification law; Alabama Open Meetings Act; how to view campaign finance reports; and many other services of the Secretary of State office.

One of the hot issues facing voters in our state is the location of places to register to vote. While Alabama citizens can register to vote at the local board of registrars, there are other options as well.

Under federal law one can fill out and submit voter registration forms at all state and /or county offices that provide public assistance.

In Alabama, public assistance offices such as Medicaid; Women, Infants, and Children’s Nutrition Program; and the Department of Human Resources, must distribute voter registration forms, provide assistance in completing the forms and accept the forms.

These offices then forward the forms to the local boards of registrars.

Alabamians are not required to register to vote at these locations.

Their right to receive public assistance will not be affected if they choose not to register to vote.

If you are obtaining or renewing a driver’s license or even applying for a library card, you can also fill out and submit a voter registration form.

Alabama is part of the Electronic Registration Information Center which allows participating states to pre-actively register anyone with a driver’s license to vote while keeping the voter rolls up to date.

As a result of joining the program, Alabama is required to send mail to all Alabamians with driver’s licenses who are not registered to vote.

Pew Research Group has awarded Alabama a grant for $187,000.00 to help cover the cost of the mailings.

Voting is not a privilege. It is a constitutional right for everyone age 18 and older. I encourage you to exercise this right and register to vote.

You can make a difference. Let your voice be heard.

6

Friday–January 22, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

FAITH A dire prediction

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

My wife’s mother died yesterday.

We had been warned that this was coming.

She was a hospice patient.

Does that word hospice scare you? I stayed a couple of times in a monastery guest

house. It was called a hospice. A place of hospitality. But that is not what most of think when we hear the word hospice.

Several years back my sister called me to let me know that my mother was going in a hospice.

To die. She would be there for a week before

she did die. Most people now think a hospice = death. Hospices help to ease the pain at the end of life.

My mother-in-law, who everybody called Granny, was a hospice patient. We learned the medical definition of a hospice patient is someone who a doctor feels is within six months of death. So a doctor told Granny and all of us that she was within six months of death. Several times.

Granny was first told she had six months or less to live about twenty-five years ago.

That doctor was wrong.

She beat the cancer that was threatening her. By the medical care of Mayo Clinic. And the care of her children. And her unbelievable strength.

And, she would tell you, it was the Lord. And she did testify to that over and over.

Years went by. She got a terrible infection. It did not look like she would make it. But she did.

About two and a half years ago, a doctor told her she had less than six

months. He was the first one to say she was a hospice patient. He was wrong. She got better.

The hospice had to tell her she could not be treated there anymore.

And one last time a doctor told her she was a hospice patient. He was wrong. She made it about eight months not six. She went to the hospice facility last Friday. And she died yesterday (Tuesday).

She spent much of her time these last years at our house. She could not get around without help.

But she would sit and read her Bible. Or watch Christian TV. Or sing hymns with my wife or anyone else. She loved church. She loved singing and music. And she loved her family.

How she cherished her three children. But even more her grandchildren.

And little pleased her more than being with her great grandchildren. On January 6, she celebrated her 96th birthday with family and friends.

She did not spend much time thinking about being a hospice patient. She did think a lot about Jesus. After all, Jesus had allowed her to make a lot of doctors look

silly.

Last Friday, January 15, she left our house to go to Shepherd’s Cove Hospice whose workers had been helping her at our house for months.

We thought Granny would be back here at home. But she will not be. Instead, she has truly gone home.

Granny was a hospice patient. But she never will be again. Yesterday she died. Yesterday she left death and pain behind her.

Would it scare you if a doctor told you that your had become a hospice patient? You are. We all are. For most of us it is death will not come in the next six months. But for all of us it is coming.

Death. You are a hospice patient.

That does not scare Christians. We know what comes next. It is all in His hands. It is something to be excited about. Granny knows a joy none of us has ever known. But we will.

Paul, near the end of his life, said, “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain…My desire is to depart and be with Christ.”

Philippians 1:21, 21 Granny is departed.

She did it. Hallelujah.

A Moment with Megan: Unfriend Him

By Megan Blansit

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

Hi friends, I hope everyone is having a great week thus far! As some of you know, I am working on a masters degree in Counseling.

Fortunately, I am already able to put the knowledge I have learned over the past few years in the classroom into practice (through internships). I have worked with a wide age range, from fourteen year old boys to forty year old females.

Despite the age of the person sitting in front of me (during a session), I seem to always hear a common denominator- “I’m worthless.”

That also follows up with “I’m not good enough.” It hurts my heart to hear the negative thoughts that people have of themselves. But my oh my what joy my heart has when we (as counselor and client) are able to untangle the lies and shed a light on the truth- that they are worthy, have an awesome purpose, and are capable of great things.

Could it be possible that we as Christians are believing lies from Satan about who we are and what we are capable of? Lets think for a second, would the God who created us, the God who knows every hair on our head, the God who literally sent his only son to die for us be capable or even desire to think any kind of negative thought about us? Of course not! That’s not in his DNA. God is love. Think about

Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.”

I am going to assume that majority of the people reading this have a Facebook account.

If you do not, I would love to give you a high five.

Facebook has an “add friend” button, as well as an “unfollow” and “unfriend” button. For those of you who have Facebook, I would assume there has been (at some point) a time where you either wanted to or did “unfriend”/ block someone. What brings us to block or unfriend someone on Facebook? Perhaps because a person has offended us OR we may even get tired of seeing what that persons posts.

Now, let me bring this all together. Is it possible that we, as Christians, have “befriended” or even “followed” the devil for for too long?! Do we “read” his negative posts and believe them as truth? “You are a nobody”… “You will never amount to anything.”…. “You don’t deserve anything good.”… and the list of negative thoughts could go on ALL day long.

Satan will never have

anything good to say!

The Bible says he comes to kill, steal and destroy (John 10:10). Friend, I beg you to “unfollow” him.

Please do not let his thoughts become yours.

He’s good at what he does, but he also uses the same tricks. He puts his thoughts in first person, making you think they are yours.

Friend, I challenge

you this week to think about what you are thinking about. Next I challenge you to “follow” Jesus; read His Word.

Feed your mind with the numerous positive thoughts that he has towards you. Lets check out Song of Solomon 4:7, “You are altogether beautiful, my darling; there is no flaw in you.”

Could you possibly believe that your Heavenly Father only thinks good of you?

Absolutely! Friend, lets join together and “unfollow” Satan. I don’t know about you, but I am tired of what he has to say.

7

Friday–January 22, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

CRIME Date: 1/21/2015

Domestic/Death Joint Investigation

Title: Press Release Posted By: Sheriff Jimmy Harris

North Carolina Man Arrested

Sheriff Jimmy Harris states that this morning, Jan. 15, DeKalb County E911 received a call about a man on the Interstate near the Collinsville exit waving a gun and had traffic stopped. When Collinsville Police, Deputies, Drug Task Force and State Troopers arrived they found Adam Eugene Finch, 53 of Oxford NC sitting in his vehicle. When Deputies and Drug Task Force got consent to search the vehicle they found a gun laying in the back seat and 2 meth pipes. DeKalb Ambulance Service was called to make sure nothing was wrong with Finch, the medical personnel found Finch to be under the influence of a controlled substance. Finch was then arrested and charged with Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and DUI of Controlled Substance.

Sheriff Harris says, “Thanks to the quick action of Collinsville Police, Deputies, Drug Task Force and State Troopers it kept this situation from escalating into something more.”

Sheriff Jimmy Harris reports that around 12:48 a.m. this morning DeKalb County Deputies received a BOLO from Jackson County for a red Ford Ranger truck that was involved in a shooting.

Deputies located the vehicle at Ider Church of Christ on Hwy 75.

Deputies, Ider Police, and Henagar Police searched the area around the Church and a hayfield in the back of the Church. During the search they found a body of a white male with a gunshot wound to the head. Jackson County and DeKalb County Investigators were called to the scene. The body was transported to the Alabama Department of Forensic Science for a positive identification of the body. This is an ongoing investigation.

Sheriff Harris states, “It appears to be a domestic violence situation but it is early in the investigation. We are working in conjunction with Jackson County Sheriff Chuck Phillips and his Investigators on this case. Thank you to the Ider Police, Henagar Police, Deputies, DeKalb and Jackson Investigators for the great work on this case.”

OBITUARIES Mr. Randell L. Watkins

Mr. Billy Ray Stewart

Age 64, of Sylvania passed away Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2016.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 15, 2016 from the W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with burial to follow in Pea Ridge cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5-8 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 15, 2016 from the W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel.

Age 49 of Dawson, AL passed away on Thursday Jan.14,2016. Funeral services are set for 3 p.m.

Friday, Jan.15,2016 from the W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with burial in Welcome Grove Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. on Friday at the Funeral Home.

Survivors: Son, Jason & Jennifer Watkins; Brother, Steve & Patti Watkins; Grandchild, Addisyn Watkins; Niece, Stephanie & David Chaney; Great Nieces, Izzy Chaney, Lorelai Chaney

He is survived by his children, Jeremy Stewart, Jacob Stewart, and Samantha Stewart; grandchild, Xander; parents, Billy E. and Faye Stewart; brother, Phillip (Kara)Stewart, Steven (Allison) Stewart; sister, Rita (David) Mauldin; 8 nephews 3 Nieces ;3 great nephews, and 1 great niece.

Mr. Watkins was preceded in death by his Parents, Elvis & Doris Watkins Arrangements Entrusted to W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel

Mr. Danny L. Bryson Age 63, of Port Huron, MI passed away Jan. 14, 2016.

Funeral services will be held at 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2016 from the W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with burial to follow in Green Haven Memorial Gardens. Bro. Julian Knight will be officiating. The family will receive Friends from 1-8 p.m. on Tuesday from the W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel. Mr. Bryson was a Veteran and served in the United States Army.

Survivors: Daughter, Heather Bryson; Mother, Julia Bryson; Stepson, Anthony (Jenny) Ginn; Step Daughters, Helen (Bradley) Detary &Pauline (Ken) Majewski; 10 Grandchildren; 2 Great Grandchildren; Sister, Charlotte “Darlene” Poland; Niece, Lena; Grandnephew, Jacob Dexter; Brother, Doyle Bryson Mr. Bryson was preceded in death by his Brother, Jamie & his trusted K-9 companion, Charlie.

Mr. Bryson loved playing the guitar, traveling, & spending time by the water watching freighters.

Mr. Stewart was preceded in death by his brother, Charles Stewart; grandparents, Ervin and Ruby Dover, Charley Stewart and Martha Stewart Cardwell

Mr. Charles William Shrader Age 71 of Valley Head (Henager) passed away Friday, Jan. 15, 2016 at his residence.

Funeral: 2 p.m. - Sunday Jan. 17, 2016 W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel Minister: Rev. Larry Haynes Burial: New Cemetery

Home

Visitation: 4 till 9 p.m.

(Saturday) Survivors: (wife) Ramona Shrader, of Valley Head; (step daughter) Deanna & Larry Sims, of Rainsville; (sons) Wayne & Haley Shrader, of Valley Head, Johnny Shrader, of Rainsville; (step son) Heath & Angie Galloway, of Rainsville; (sisters) Maxine Grider, of Valley Head, Freda Grider, of Valley Head. Kathy Cryer, of Valley Head; (grandchildren) Blair Shrader, Preston Shrader, Dax Shrader, Payton Shrader, Christopher Sims, Tiffany Sims, Allie Galloway, Anna Lee Shrader, Trevor Cofield, Destin Cofield, Evan Wells,

Madison Anderson.

Mr. Shrader was a Veteran and a member of Henager Masonic Lodge.

Mr. W.G. “Bud” Thrash Age 88, of Rainsville passed away on Saturday, Jan. 16, 2016 in DeKalb Regional Hospital. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2016 from the W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with Rev. Reggie Byrum officiating. The family will receive friends from 5 p.m.-8 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 18, 2016 at W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel. Burial will follow in Kirk Memorial Gardens.

Survivors: Wife- Katy Childers Thrash; DaughterShelia (Bobby) Sparks; Sons- Heath (Amy) Thrash, Rickey (Sherel) Thrash, Ricky (Diane) Jones; SisterGlenis Stephenson; Grandchildren- Zachary Thrash, Krymson Thrash, Keshia Wallace, Shawn Thrash, Lebron Sparks, Jace Holt Thrash; Great Grandchildren- Cason Sparks, Jalon Sparks, Bella Wallace, Tori Wallace, Maddie Wallace, Taylor Thrash, Bailey Thrash Arrangements Entrusted to W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel

Mr. Rocky Cordell Bray Age 52, of Fyffe passed away on Monday, Jan. 18, 2016. Funeral services are set for 11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2016 from the W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel .

Burial will be in Haigwood Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5 until 8 p.m. Tuesday at W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel.

He is survived by his daughter, Kelsey Bray; son, Caleb (Callie) Bray; sister, Glenine (Teddy) Long; niece, Beth Schultz; nephew, Hayden Long.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Glen and Wilma Bray; and brother, Christopher Bray.

Mr. Jerry Don Rogers Age 65, of Fyffe passed

away on Monday, Jan. 18, 2016. Funeral services are set for 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2016 from the W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel with Bro Paul Long officiating. Burial will be in Glenwood Cemetery with military honors. The family will receive friends from 5 until 8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.

He is survived by the mother of his girls, Connie Fuller; daughters, Kortney (Zack) Couch and Kisha (Chris) Montgomery; mother, Audrey Rogers; sisters, Susan Hariel and Judy Mills; brothers, Troy Rogers and Tommy Jolley; grandchildren, Jacob Birchfield, Bailey Birchfield, Dawson Bates, and Caiden Couch.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Trina Michelle Rogers.

Mrs. Mary Ruth Brown Jan. 28, 1921 - Jan. 12, 2016 Funeral 2 p.m. on Wednesday 1-13-16 at Burt Chapel-Fort Payne Visitation 12 p.m.-2 p.m. on wednesday 1-13-16 at Burt Chapel-Fort Payne Burial at Cemetery

Glenwood

Officiating will be Rev. David Talley In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to Mt. Carmel Baptist Church 702 Clark Ave. NE Fort Payne, Al 35967

Ms. Mozelle M. Crowe Aug. 14, 1918 - Jan. 17, 2016 Funeral 2 p.m. on Tuesday 1-19-16 at Burt ChapelValley Head Visitation 5 p.m.-8 p.m. on Monday 1-18-16 at Burt Chapel-Valley Head Burial at Valley Head Cemetery Officiating will be Rev. Darrell Haney & Rev. Roger Haney The family is accepting flowers Sister-in-law: Dorothy Crowe

Nephews: Selma Haney, Dwight Clark & Bill Crowe Nieces: Brenda Traffanstedt, Jan Pullen & Marcella Howard Many Great Nieces & Nephews Preceded in death by: Parents-Alphus & Mary Crowe, Brothers-Clyde Crowe, William Crowe & Donald Harwood and Sisters-Eunice Haney & Venice Haney Pa l l b e a re r s : B u d dy Burnett, John Holleman, Rev. Glenn Tanner, Dwight Clark, Bill Crowe & Rev. Stephen Carson Honorary Pallbearer: Selma Haney

Mrs. Mable Rean Smothers Age 74 of Rainsville, AL passed away on Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2016 at her residence. Funeral services will be held Friday, Jan. 15, 2016 at 2 p.m. from Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel with the Bro. Oron Whitley officiating. Burial will follow in Town Creek Cemetery with Rainsville Funeral Home, Inc. directing. Visitation will be Thursday, Jan. 14 from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. & Friday, Jan. 15 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Survivors include Husband of 57 Years: David Lee Smothers of Rainsville, AL; 2 Sons: Alan Smothers and wife Angela of Rainsville, AL; Tracy Smothers of Huntsville, AL; 1 Daughter: Karen Gortney and husband Michael of Rainsville, AL; 1 Sister: Doris Hairel of Rainsville, AL; 5 Grandchildren & 1 Great Grandchild.

Preceded in Death by Parents: Milo & Lealer Cushen; 3 Brothers: Carl, Herman & Willard; 5 Sisters: Annie Mae, Vinnus Faye, Berthel, Zemra Cleo & Versie.

Visitation: Rainsville Funeral Home, Inc. Thursday, Jan. 14 from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 15 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Services: Rainsville Funeral Home Chapel Friday, Jan. 15, 2016 at 2 p.m.

Interment: Town Creek Cemetery Following Service

8

Friday–January 22, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

POLITICS Sen. Phil Williams responds to attacks from political blog

By Joseph M. Morgan joseph@southerntorch.com

Alabama Sen. Phil Williams fired back at a political blogger

MONTGOMERY, Ala.— Alabama Sen. Phil Williams released a scathing statement this week to an article written by political blogger Bill Britt that recently appeared in the Alabama Political Reporter.

“Over the past few weeks, a blogger named Bill Britt has written a number of posts attacking not only my character, but also the name of my late father, a highly-decorated Army veteran and revered public servant,” Williams said. “Further, Britt has attacked my law firm and its clients and insinuated I have used my position as a senator for private gain.”

Williams, who represents portions of DeKalb, Etowah, Cherokee and St. Clair Counties, said he ignored Britt’s initial blog posts, but felt he had no recourse but to publicly respond when Britt went as far as to allege that Williams “was under

investigation by law enforcement for possible ethics violations and other related activities.”

Britt’s article implied that Williams has shown impropriety in regards to some of the individuals and organizations his law firm has chosen to take on as clients.

Williams said there absolutely no evidence of an investigation and that he had nothing to hide.

Williams backed his words up with a show of complete transparency when he voluntarily turned over his law firm’s client list in its entirety to the Alabama Ethics Commission requesting the investigative body conduct a full review of the list to prove that no conflict of interest existed.

“I took the unusual step of contacting the Alabama Ethics Commission on Friday and personally requested they conduct a full review of my law practice,” Williams said. “At my own insistence they have now received all five

years of my client lists and will review them under seal.”

Williams said he is confident a review of the files will show he has zero clients with state interests and that his annual statements of economic interest to the Ethics Commission have fully complied with the law.

“It is a blessing to serve the people of my district in the Alabama Senate. But no one, public or private, should have to endure lies and deceit simply without basis,” Williams said. “I am taking these actions not just for myself, but also for every member of the public domain who has been assaulted by bloggers and rumorpeddlers who believe they can hide behind the false pretense that they are ‘reporting the news.’”

Williams said the Ethics Commission is in receipt of his client list and will review it at his request to ascertain that there are no conflicts of interest.

Preparing for Alabama’s upcoming March 1 primary

By Joseph M. Morgan joseph@southerntorch.com

DEKALB CO, Ala.—Alabama will hold its primary election on March 1, 2016 to determine which Democrat candidate and which Republican candidate will represent their parties in the general election in November. In order to take part in the March 1 primary, DeKalb County voters must meet the following February deadlines: February 12 - Voter registration hand-delivery deadline (due to Monday holiday).

February 13 - Last day for voter to postmark a voter registration form.

February 25 - Last day for voter to make application for an absentee ballot.

February 29 - Last day for voter to hand-deliver or postmark an absentee ballot.

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

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

VALLEY HEAD: Gas Station HENAGAR: Texaco SYLVANIA: Gas Station RAINSVILLE: Southern Torch office McDonald’s Foodland Fuel City Hardee’s

9

Friday–January 22, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

POLITICS

Bernie Sanders visits Magic City

By Karah Wilson karah@southerntorch.com

BIRMINGHAM, Ala.— Democratic presidential candidate and U.S Senator from Vermont, Bernie Sanders, made a stop to rally in Birmingham on Jan. 18.

Despite Alabama being a predominantly red state, over 7,000 Sanders supporters showed up to show their love and support for the candidate. The historic Boutwell Auditorium held its maximum capacity at 5,700 people and outside stood 1,400 more. “There must be a mistake,” Sanders said.

“Someone told me Alabama is a conservative state.” Sanders was accompanied by Kim Meadows Clark, the day program coordinator for the emergency shelter at Firehouse Shelters in Birmingham; Dr. Cornel West, an American philosopher and member of the Democratic Socialists of America; and Ohio State Senator Nina Turner.

While the rally drew thousands of people to the city, it was just one of the major events happening in Birmingham that day.

Monday was also Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Sanders made several historic stops that day to honor the late minister.

“The vision he had for the future in many ways remains unfulfilled,” Sanders said. “If we are serious about remembering his legacy, we will continue the fight for racial justice, economic justice and for a nation in which all people live with dignity. We still have a long way to go.” In August of 1963, Sanders, who was a college student at the time, marched with Dr. King.

“To truly honor Dr. King we must fight to carry out his radical and bold vision for America. He saw the relationship between racism and economics and war. This

was his courage.”

Sanders describes himself as a Democratic Socialist. The word ‘socialist’ is something that many fear and is what turns most people away from voting from Sanders. However, Democratic Socialism and Socialism are two different ideas.

Washington Post describes a socialist as this: Socialists believe the government should provide a wide range of basic services to its citizens free of charge or at a discount, typically including university education and health care, as well as child care, housing, telecommunications, energy, and more in some countries. They believe that these services should be available to everyone, not just the neediest. They think that public or worker ownerships can provide these services more cheaply and more equitably than the free market. They think everyone should have a truly equal chance at success in life, regardless of advantages at birth.

The Post describes Socialism as a moral view and an idea that people share something and that we have to help each other out. According to the Washington Post, Sanders has not talked about using government to take over large sections of the economy. He has not talked about ending the stock market or giving workers control over their companies.

Sanders wants the government to pay for health care and college tuition but those services would still be provided by a combination of public agencies and private organizations. He does not believe in doing away with U.S. System of Representative government.

During the rally in Birmingham, Sanders touched many topics. He began the rally by

pointing out that nine months ago he was 50 points behind in most polls, but now he is closing the gap in Iowa.

“The last poll just came out yesterday and it had us 15 points ahead of our very good friend Donald Trump,” Sanders said.

Sanders also stated that so far he has raised $2.5 million total in individual contributions. “That is more than individual contributions than any campaign in the history of the United States of America up until this point,” Sanders pointed out. Sanders addressed a number of issues, including the middle class and the minimum wage. “In the last 40 years, the middle class has been disappearing.

Males work for $700 less than 41 years ago and females work for $1,000 less than in 2007. We need to create an economy that works for the middle class, not just the billionaire class.”

Sanders also mentioned the Walton family of Wal Mart. “Many of their workers are paid wages so low they have to get Medicaid, they have to get food stamps, and they subsidized housing. In other words, the middle class of this country is providing welfare for to wealthiest family in this country. It doesn’t make sense to me,” Sanders said. “Get off of welfare and pay your workers a living wage.” Sanders went on to talk about raising the minimum wage to $15 an hour and equal pay for women. “I want all of the men in this room to stand with the women for equal pay.”

In terms of unemployment, Sanders hit hard on high school and college graduates.

According to Sanders, 33 percent of caucasian high school graduates from 17-20 years old are unemployed. Sanders also stated that 36 percent of latinos and 51 percent of African

Americans in the same category are also unemployed. “How about the federal government investing in education and jobs, not jails and incarceration.” In regards to health care, Sanders stated that “We have got the end the international embarrassment of the United States being the only major country on Earth that does not guarantee paid family and medical leave.”

Sanders went on to say that he will make sure all U.S. employees have three months of paid family and medical leave.

Sanders hit on the topic of education and its cost as well. “We should be hiring teachers, not firing teachers,” Sanders said. “We need the best educated workforce in the world.” Other topics Sanders touched on in terms of education was student debts and free tuition.

As Sanders ended his speech, he said the U.S.

needs to end the disgrace of the highest incarceration rates in the world, including China. “I will also work to get marijuana off of the Schedule 1 drug list,” Sanders said. “Turns out that whites and blacks do marijuana at about equal rates. But it also turns out that African Americans are arrested four times more than whites,” Sanders said.

The Iowa Caucus is on Feb. 1, 2016. All of the candidates are preparing to face this big day.

Sanders might be closing in on his opponent, U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, but it is no guarantee of who will walk away with Democratic nomination for U.S. President. The upcoming weeks are huge for all of the candidates as it will help voters in Iowa decide who they will vote for. The Alabama primaries will be held on March 1, 2016.

10

Friday–January 22, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

the 2016 DeKalb County Varsit y Girls

Collinsville Lady Lady Lions defeat the Bears third with a score of Panthers burn the Devils 41-36.

Cassidy Bolding takes it to the hoop for the Plainview Bears Photo Courtesy of Kristy Gallagher Photography

Kendria Moore tries to go in for the score while being heavily guarded by a Fyffe Red Devil

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

Collinsville 66-Fyffe 49 RAINSVILLE, Ala.— The Collinsville Lady Panthers took on the Fyffe Lady Devils Monday night in the first round of the 2016 Dekalb County Tournament. The Lady Panthers defeated the Devils 66-49 to advance on to the semi finals game to be held Thursday night.

Coming back from the half, the Panthers continued to dominate the Lady Devils. They went into the half with as 30-12 lead against the Lady Devils.

Coming back from the half, the Panthers dominated the Lady Devils. During the third, they advanced to a 22 point lead and won the game improving their record to 10-11. Aryelle Jones led the Panthers with 19 points. Brittany Rivera had a doubledouble for the Panthers, scoring 17 points and having 10 rebounds.

Trinity Garner finished the night with 14 points and four rebounds.

Brooklyn Dutton led the Fyffe Lady Red Devils with 19 points. Logan Bradley finished the night with 17 points.

Lady Hornets buzz the Tigers

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

Players from Ider and Valley Head fight for the ball during the first round of the Dekalb County Basketball Tournament.

Ider 77-Valley Head 57 RAINSVILLE, Ala.— The Ider Lady Hornets faced the Valley Head Tigers Monday night in the first round of the 2016 Dekalb County Basketball Tournament. They defeated the Tigers to increase their record to 12-8.

The Ider Hornets took no time in jumping to an early lead against Valley Head. The led the Tigers 21-3 in the first quarter.

Going into halftime, they

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

Crossville 53Plainview 50 RAINSVILLE, Ala.— In the first round of the Dekalb County Varsity Girls Basketball Tournament, the Crossville Lady Lions defeated the Plainview Lady Bears 53-50.

The Plainview Lady Bears jumped to the early lead in the first with a score of 14-7. Going into the intermission, the score was tied 22-22. had took the 43-29 lead and never looked back.

Coming back from the half, they maintained the lead and ended the third quarter with a score of 56-40. Ider finished strong and ended the game with a 77-57 score over Valley Head.

Hannah Culpepper led the Hornets with 23 points and seven rebounds. Two players from Ider had doubledouble for the night.

Dani Townson had 19 points and 11 rebounds.

Morgan Flynn had 10 points and 12 rebounds.

Two players from Valley Head scored in the double digits. Sierra Chambers led the Tigers with 20 points. Morgan Blalock followed closely behind with 16 points for the night.

HUNTER OF THE WEEK! Clinton Graham, of Henagar, recently killed this 8-pointer. Coach Graham is a retired school teacher but you can still see him around Valley Head, helping his son Coach Sam Graham on the football field. Clinton is married to Annis Graham. They have four sons (including their late son, Van) and 13 grandchildren! Submit your hunting pictures to marla@southerntorch.com to be our next Hunter of the week!

During the third quarter, it was back and forth between two teams who refused to give up.

The lead changed eight times within the first six minutes. Plainview’s Jacey Bell pulled the Bears ahead with her 3-pointer with two minutes left in the third.

Crossville fought back with a pair of three’s from Keestan Bobo to end the

In the final minutes of the game, Plainview fought back and cut the Crossville lead to one.

Bell shot two threes that brought the score to 49-48. The last minute of the game consisted of fouls and free throws.

Crossville pulled ahead by three to win the game.

Two Crossville players scored in the double digits. Keestan Bobo led the Lions with 14 points.

Casey McDaniel had 10 points.

Jacey Bell led the Bears with 24 points.

Annabelle Brown put 10 points on the board for the Bears.

Crossville will advance to the semifinals playing Ider, Thursday at 6 p.m.

Lady Rams bite the Bulldogs

Sylvania Ram, Morgan Frazier puts up a layup during the first round of the Dekalb County Tournament against Geraldine Photo Cred to Kristy Gallaghar

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

Sylvania 52Geraldine 28 RAINSVILLE, Ala.— The Sylvania Lady Rams faced the Geraldine Lady Bulldogs in the first round of the Dekalb County Tournament, Monday night. The top-seeded Rams pulled off the victory with a score of 52-28.

The Rams jumped to a 17-10 lead in the first quarter. They maintained their lead throughout the remainder of the ballgame. They went into

the half with the score of 25-17. At the end of the third, the Rams led 37-19, only allowing the Bulldogs to score 2 points. The Rams managed to extend the lead by 24 points to win.

Morgan Frazier led the Rams with 11 points.

Jenny Sweeting added 8 points to the board.

Following close behind were Madison Burt and Bethany Davis with seven points each.

The Lady Rams will face Collinsville in the semifinals of the Dekalb County Basketball Tournament, Thursday night at 7:30 pm.

11

Friday–January 22, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

Basketball Tournament Varsit y Boys

Lions defeat the Devils

Bears swat the Hornets

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

Crossville 59-Fyffe 47 RAINSVILLE, Ala.— In the first round of the Dekalb County Varsity Boys Basketball Tournament, the Crossville Lions defeated the Fyffe Red Devils 59-47, Tuesday night.

The first quarter was equally matched with the score being 11-10 as the buzzer sounded. The Crossville Lions jumped ahead in the second, scoring 19 points to the Devils 10. Going into the half, the score was Crossville 30, Fyffe 20.

Crossville maintained their lead throughout the second half. At the break from the third, the Lions

Both Fyffe and Crossville battle over the ball in the first round of the Dekalb County Varsity Boys Basketball Tournament. Photo Cred to Kristy Gallagher

held on with a score of 47-34. The Red Devils could never catch up and as the buzzer sounded in the fourth, the score was

Rams bring down the Panthers

Crossville 59, Fyffe 47.

For Crossville, two players scored in the double digits. Joshua Bailey had 19 points.

Ganon Pointer added 15 points to the board for the Lions.

Payton Anderson led the Fyffe team with 11 points. Seth Benefield and Chad Gray, each had nine points.

Jake Slay goes for the net against Ider, Tuesday night.

Photo cred to Kristy Gallaghar

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

Plainview 55-Ider 22 RAINSVILLE, Ala.— The Plainview Bears took on the Ider Hornets, in the first round of the Dekalb County Varsity Boys Basketball Tournament, Tuesday night. The Bears defeated the Hornets to

Bulldogs maul the Tigers

Cade White for Geraldine and Eric Blevins for Valley Head at tip off , Tuesday night.

Caleb Roebuck takes it to the net against Collinsville, Tuesday night. Photo Cred to Kristy Gallaghar

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

Sylvania 67Collinsville 56 RAINSVILLE, Ala.- The Sylvania Rams defeated the Collinsville Panthers, Tuesday night in the first round of the Dekalb County Varsity Boys Basketball Tournament 67-56.

The Collinsville Panthers jumped to an early lead in the first quarter with a score of 17-11 against the Rams.

In the second, the Rams gained momentum and outscored the Panthers 21-8 in the second. Going

into the half the score was Sylvania 32, Collinsville 25.

Coming back from the intermission, Collinsville outscored the Rams 20-17 in the third. The Rams charged ahead in the fourth and won with a score of 67-56.

Two Sylvania players scored in the double digits. Dawson Hill led the Rams with 25 points and 8 rebounds. Caleb Roebuck had 14 points and had 5 rebounds.

The Rams advance to take on Plainview, Friday night in the semifinals at 6:00 pm.

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor marla@southerntorch.com

Geraldine 74Valley Head 29 RAINSVILLE, Ala.— The number one seed, Geraldine Bulldogs defeated the Valley Head Tigers 74-29, Tuesday

night in the first round of the Dekalb County Varsity Boys Basketball Tournament.

Geraldine led the the Valley Head Tigers 25-9 at the end of the first quarter. They went into halftime with a 50-16 lead and easily main-

advance on to the semifinals Friday night with a score of 55-22.

It was a low scoring ballgame during the first quarter. Plainview put 9 points on the board and Ider had 2. The game picked up a little in the second. Going into the half, the Bears led 23-4.

Coming back from the half, the Bears took charge and never looked back. They scored 25 points in the third, making the score 48-16.

In the fourth, Plainview grabbed 7 more points.

Ider scored 6 points.

Final, 55-22.

Cade Millican scored in the double digits for the Bears with 10 points.

Cade Willingham and Will Kirk each had 8 points.

Plainview will face Sylvania, Friday night in the semifinals of the tournament. Game time is 7:30 pm.

tained the lead for the remainder of the game.

At the end of the third, the Bulldogs led 66-23 and extended their lead by 45 to close out with a victory. They will face next door neighbor Crossville in the semifinals, Friday night at 7:30 pm.

Three Bulldogs reached double digits in scoring. Tate Richey led the Bulldogs with 20 points. Bret Armstrong had 13 and Justin Murphy finished the night with 12.

Two Valley Head Tigers reached double digits in scoring. Isaiah Smith had 15. Ethan Harrison finished with 10 for the night.

FANS OF THE WEEK! The Southern Torch fans of the week are Elmer White and Kristy Gallaghar. Elmer was a fixture for many years, at every Sylvania game before becoming a resident at Collinsville Nursing Home. Elmer surprised all the Rams fans by attending the Sylvania vs Collinsville game Tuesday night. Kristy Gallaghar is now the permanent fixture of every Sylvania game taking pictures for the fans. Submit your photos marla@southerntorch.com to be the next Southern Torch fan of the week!

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Friday–January 22, 2016

THE SOUTHERN TORCH

WE’RE PROUD OF OUR TEAMS! DeWitt Jackson DeKalb County Commission Good luck to all players!

paid political Ad by Dewitt Jackson 192 Co Rd 294 Sylvania, AL. 35988

Good Luck to all teams!

Matt Sharp

DeKalb County Commission

Good luck to all area teams! paid political Ad by Matt Sharp 351 West St Sylvania, AL. 35988