7/31/08
Exhibit Guidelines and entry forms for the regional art exhibit at Chipola Arts Center , Sunday Afternoon with the Arts", are being mailed to artists, announced, Nancy Zurenda, event Chairperson. Artists can access the entry form and guidelines on the Chipola College website as well.
In its fourth year, the exhibit’s Opening Reception is scheduled for November 2 from 1 to 5 PM. It is open to all artists 18 years or older who either work or live in the 5 county area served by Chipola College including Jackson, Washington, Holmes, Calhoun and Liberty Counties. Artists may exhibit three pieces of original art in any medium. There is no entry fee for artists. Artists of all levels and abilities are encouraged to participate.
In addition to the opening reception, this year’s exhibit will be open through November 13 and will feature an open to the public Gallery Walk and meeting of The Artists Guild of Northwest Florida on November 8.
As in the past the opening reception is free to the public and will feature Art demonstrations and hands-on art educational experiences for adults and children. It is designed to be a fun filled afternoon for the entire family and offer families a local event they can enjoy without driving long distances.
For more information artists can call Nancy Zurenda at 526-5977.This year’s exhibit is sponsored by the Chipola Regional Arts Association in partnership with The Artists Guild of Northwest Florida. Deadline for entry is October 4.
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Thursday, July 31, 2008
TROY Comes to Chipola
7/31/08
Troy University, Global Campus is pleased to announce that it has taken up permanent residence at the Chipola College University Center. Following a number of years during which TROY delivered their Master of Science in Counseling and Psychology to local cohort groups, the University opted to accept an invitation from Chipola’s Dr. Kitty Myers, Vice President of Instruction and Baccalaureate Program Development, to establish a more formal relationship with the College.
Initially, TROY will continue to deliver the MSCP Program. Plans are currently underway to add the final two years of a Bachelor of Science in Psychology program in the very near future. This should create a very attractive opportunity for members of the local community who have already completed the first two years of college or who have earned their Associate’s degree and are looking for a local pathway to take their previous coursework or qualifications to the next level.
In addition to these traditional in-class opportunities, the TROY office will also serve as a local student support and advising center for students interested in enrolling in one of the University’s many undergraduate and graduate programs offered fully online through the University’s highly regarded eCampus. Current program offerings via the virtual classroom include undergraduate degrees in Computer Science, Criminal Justice, Political Science, Psychology, Social Science and Sport and Fitness Management. Fully online graduate programs are available in Business Administration (MBA), Public Administration, Criminal Justice, Human Resource Management, International Relations and Management.
Coordinating activities for TROY in the 5 county area will be Amanda Suggs. Mandy is a native of Jackson County where she has spent the last eight years working in various capacities at Chipola College. Her most recent role was as a Career Specialist, working with area middle and high school students to promote post-secondary education through the Federally Funded Educational Talent Search Program.
Mandy has served on many committees at both college and state level to include President of the Chipola College Career Employee Association, Publications Chair of the Florida Association of Community Colleges Student Development Board, and Hospitality Co-Chair of the FCCAA State Basketball Tournament.
Her education includes the current pursuit of a Master’s in Counseling and Psychology from Troy University; Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from the University of West Florida; and Associate degree from Chipola College.
"I am so extremely excited to be a part of Troy University. As a student and employee, I can honestly say that TROY offers many opportunities to our area and plans to expand those opportunities with this new partnership. I know that the community will respond immediately and positively to the presence of this wonderful institution."
The close ties between Mandy and Chipola, the considerable number of faculty and staff at Chipola College who are graduates of Troy University and the opportunities created by this new relationship are all indicators that this should be a win, win, win situation for both institutions and the local community.
The Jackson County Chamber of Commerce will host an official ribbon cutting ceremony for Troy University – Marianna on August 7, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. at the Continuing Education Conference Center on the Chipola College Campus. An Open House will follow the ceremony to allow the community to meet TROY staff.
Troy University, Global Campus is pleased to announce that it has taken up permanent residence at the Chipola College University Center. Following a number of years during which TROY delivered their Master of Science in Counseling and Psychology to local cohort groups, the University opted to accept an invitation from Chipola’s Dr. Kitty Myers, Vice President of Instruction and Baccalaureate Program Development, to establish a more formal relationship with the College.
Initially, TROY will continue to deliver the MSCP Program. Plans are currently underway to add the final two years of a Bachelor of Science in Psychology program in the very near future. This should create a very attractive opportunity for members of the local community who have already completed the first two years of college or who have earned their Associate’s degree and are looking for a local pathway to take their previous coursework or qualifications to the next level.
In addition to these traditional in-class opportunities, the TROY office will also serve as a local student support and advising center for students interested in enrolling in one of the University’s many undergraduate and graduate programs offered fully online through the University’s highly regarded eCampus. Current program offerings via the virtual classroom include undergraduate degrees in Computer Science, Criminal Justice, Political Science, Psychology, Social Science and Sport and Fitness Management. Fully online graduate programs are available in Business Administration (MBA), Public Administration, Criminal Justice, Human Resource Management, International Relations and Management.
Coordinating activities for TROY in the 5 county area will be Amanda Suggs. Mandy is a native of Jackson County where she has spent the last eight years working in various capacities at Chipola College. Her most recent role was as a Career Specialist, working with area middle and high school students to promote post-secondary education through the Federally Funded Educational Talent Search Program.
Mandy has served on many committees at both college and state level to include President of the Chipola College Career Employee Association, Publications Chair of the Florida Association of Community Colleges Student Development Board, and Hospitality Co-Chair of the FCCAA State Basketball Tournament.
Her education includes the current pursuit of a Master’s in Counseling and Psychology from Troy University; Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from the University of West Florida; and Associate degree from Chipola College.
"I am so extremely excited to be a part of Troy University. As a student and employee, I can honestly say that TROY offers many opportunities to our area and plans to expand those opportunities with this new partnership. I know that the community will respond immediately and positively to the presence of this wonderful institution."
The close ties between Mandy and Chipola, the considerable number of faculty and staff at Chipola College who are graduates of Troy University and the opportunities created by this new relationship are all indicators that this should be a win, win, win situation for both institutions and the local community.
The Jackson County Chamber of Commerce will host an official ribbon cutting ceremony for Troy University – Marianna on August 7, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. at the Continuing Education Conference Center on the Chipola College Campus. An Open House will follow the ceremony to allow the community to meet TROY staff.
MHS Dress Code 2008-2009
7/31/08
1. Skirts, dresses and shorts must be knee length. Splits in dresses and skirts should not be higher than the knee. Skirts, dresses and shorts worn with leggings/tights, etc. must be knee length.
2. Shoulder coverage on shirts, blouses and dresses is to be a minimum of three inches per garment. All tops are to have a modest neckline and should not allow cleavage, the mid section or stomach area to show.
3. Strapless dresses and tops, halter tops, muscle shirts, one shoulder strap, exposed backs, spaghetti straps, racer back tops, basketball jerseys and tank tops are not allowed.
4. Pants or shorts must be worn at the waist with a belt. Pants or shorts with holes are not acceptable. Pants are to be appropriately sized to be worn at the waist.
5. Shirts or blouses must be tucked into the pants, shorts or skirt. An over shirt or jacket that zips, snaps or buttons may be worn over the tucked in shirt or top. Shirts may not have holes in them. Tops are to be sized to be tucked in.
6. Shoes must be worn at all times. Bedroom slippers, shower shoes, etc are not acceptable.
7. Sleepwear, loungewear, fleece sweatpants are not permitted at MHS.
8. Headwear is not to be worn on campus unless previously approved for medical or religious reason. This includes hats, caps, headbands, bandannas, stocking caps and hoods. Sunglasses should not be worn in the building.
9. Clothing with inappropriate advertisements, monograms, emblems, insignias or statements that are offensive, vulgar, or inflammatory is prohibited. Clothing with references to alcohol, tobacco, profanity, drugs, gangs, promoting violence, sexual innuendo, etc. is not allowed.
10. Body piercings, other than in the ear, are not acceptable.
11. Appropriate undergarments are to be worn and covered at all times.
12. Clothing or jewelry with pointed tipped studs or spikes is prohibited. Wallet chains, "dog" collars or other inappropriate chains are not to be worn on campus.
13. Any clothing that, in the opinion of school administration, interferes with the educational process is not acceptable. A student whose personal attire or grooming does not meet administrative requirements for acceptable dress or whose attire could be hazardous to him/herself will be required to change before going to class. The student will wear clothes provided by the school or replacement clothes brought from home. If a student has a question about appropriate dress, he/she is advised to seek clarification from an administrator.
1. Skirts, dresses and shorts must be knee length. Splits in dresses and skirts should not be higher than the knee. Skirts, dresses and shorts worn with leggings/tights, etc. must be knee length.
2. Shoulder coverage on shirts, blouses and dresses is to be a minimum of three inches per garment. All tops are to have a modest neckline and should not allow cleavage, the mid section or stomach area to show.
3. Strapless dresses and tops, halter tops, muscle shirts, one shoulder strap, exposed backs, spaghetti straps, racer back tops, basketball jerseys and tank tops are not allowed.
4. Pants or shorts must be worn at the waist with a belt. Pants or shorts with holes are not acceptable. Pants are to be appropriately sized to be worn at the waist.
5. Shirts or blouses must be tucked into the pants, shorts or skirt. An over shirt or jacket that zips, snaps or buttons may be worn over the tucked in shirt or top. Shirts may not have holes in them. Tops are to be sized to be tucked in.
6. Shoes must be worn at all times. Bedroom slippers, shower shoes, etc are not acceptable.
7. Sleepwear, loungewear, fleece sweatpants are not permitted at MHS.
8. Headwear is not to be worn on campus unless previously approved for medical or religious reason. This includes hats, caps, headbands, bandannas, stocking caps and hoods. Sunglasses should not be worn in the building.
9. Clothing with inappropriate advertisements, monograms, emblems, insignias or statements that are offensive, vulgar, or inflammatory is prohibited. Clothing with references to alcohol, tobacco, profanity, drugs, gangs, promoting violence, sexual innuendo, etc. is not allowed.
10. Body piercings, other than in the ear, are not acceptable.
11. Appropriate undergarments are to be worn and covered at all times.
12. Clothing or jewelry with pointed tipped studs or spikes is prohibited. Wallet chains, "dog" collars or other inappropriate chains are not to be worn on campus.
13. Any clothing that, in the opinion of school administration, interferes with the educational process is not acceptable. A student whose personal attire or grooming does not meet administrative requirements for acceptable dress or whose attire could be hazardous to him/herself will be required to change before going to class. The student will wear clothes provided by the school or replacement clothes brought from home. If a student has a question about appropriate dress, he/she is advised to seek clarification from an administrator.
Financial Focus 7/31/08
By: David Carrel
As an investor, you may find that bonds can be a valuable part of your portfolio. But choosing to invest in bonds is one thing — and choosing how to invest in them is another. Basically, you’ve got two choices: individual bonds or bond-based mutual funds. Which approach is right for you?
There’s no one right answer for everyone. So let’s review some of the common reasons for investing in bonds and see how they are addressed by individual bonds and by bond funds:
♦ Diversification — By investing in bonds, you can help diversify a portfolio that may be dominated by stocks. (Keep in mind, though, that diversification, by itself, cannot guarantee a profit or protect you against a loss in a declining market). While individual bonds can help diversify your holdings, you may be able to achieve broader diversification by investing in a bond fund, which may own a mix of corporate and government bonds.
♦ Fixed rate of return — When you buy an individual bond, you receive a fixed interest rate and predictable interest payments. Until your bond matures, or unless it is "called" (bought back) by the issuer, you will always receive the same rate of return. But a bond fund does not pay you a fixed rate of return; instead, you receive dividends, which will fluctuate, based on the underlying bonds’ interest rates and capital appreciation.
♦ Return of principal — If you buy an individual bond, you will get your principal back when the bond matures, provided the issuer doesn’t default. (However, before the bond matures, its value will rise and fall, based on current market interest rates.) Bond funds do not mature and have no obligation to return your principal, so you could lose some or all of your initial investment when you sell your shares which is based on current market values.
♦ Costs – You can invest in most types of bonds for a relatively small fee or commission. But if you buy a bond fund, you will be subject to the same types of charges — such as sales charges, management fees and service fees — that are attached to many types of mutual funds.
♦ Taxes — When you own individual bonds, you’ll pay current income taxes on your interest payments, but you won’t be subject to capital gains if you hold your bonds until they mature. However, if you purchase bond funds, you could be subject to capital gains taxes in two different ways: if you sell your fund shares for a profit or if the fund manager sells an underlying bond for more than it’s worth. If that happens, the capital gain — and the tax obligation — will be passed on to you. This increased capital gains liability is one reason that many people put bond funds in a tax-deferred vehicle, such as an IRA or a 401(k).
Before investing in a bond or bond fund, consult with your financial advisor to see which vehicle is appropriate for your needs. Also, before purchasing a bond fund, read the prospectus carefully. The prospectus contains more complete information, including the funds investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses as well as other important information that should be carefully considered before you invest or send money.
By getting the help you need, and by doing some homework on your own, you can find the bonds or bond funds that can help you make progress toward your key financial goals.
As an investor, you may find that bonds can be a valuable part of your portfolio. But choosing to invest in bonds is one thing — and choosing how to invest in them is another. Basically, you’ve got two choices: individual bonds or bond-based mutual funds. Which approach is right for you?
There’s no one right answer for everyone. So let’s review some of the common reasons for investing in bonds and see how they are addressed by individual bonds and by bond funds:
♦ Diversification — By investing in bonds, you can help diversify a portfolio that may be dominated by stocks. (Keep in mind, though, that diversification, by itself, cannot guarantee a profit or protect you against a loss in a declining market). While individual bonds can help diversify your holdings, you may be able to achieve broader diversification by investing in a bond fund, which may own a mix of corporate and government bonds.
♦ Fixed rate of return — When you buy an individual bond, you receive a fixed interest rate and predictable interest payments. Until your bond matures, or unless it is "called" (bought back) by the issuer, you will always receive the same rate of return. But a bond fund does not pay you a fixed rate of return; instead, you receive dividends, which will fluctuate, based on the underlying bonds’ interest rates and capital appreciation.
♦ Return of principal — If you buy an individual bond, you will get your principal back when the bond matures, provided the issuer doesn’t default. (However, before the bond matures, its value will rise and fall, based on current market interest rates.) Bond funds do not mature and have no obligation to return your principal, so you could lose some or all of your initial investment when you sell your shares which is based on current market values.
♦ Costs – You can invest in most types of bonds for a relatively small fee or commission. But if you buy a bond fund, you will be subject to the same types of charges — such as sales charges, management fees and service fees — that are attached to many types of mutual funds.
♦ Taxes — When you own individual bonds, you’ll pay current income taxes on your interest payments, but you won’t be subject to capital gains if you hold your bonds until they mature. However, if you purchase bond funds, you could be subject to capital gains taxes in two different ways: if you sell your fund shares for a profit or if the fund manager sells an underlying bond for more than it’s worth. If that happens, the capital gain — and the tax obligation — will be passed on to you. This increased capital gains liability is one reason that many people put bond funds in a tax-deferred vehicle, such as an IRA or a 401(k).
Before investing in a bond or bond fund, consult with your financial advisor to see which vehicle is appropriate for your needs. Also, before purchasing a bond fund, read the prospectus carefully. The prospectus contains more complete information, including the funds investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses as well as other important information that should be carefully considered before you invest or send money.
By getting the help you need, and by doing some homework on your own, you can find the bonds or bond funds that can help you make progress toward your key financial goals.
I Pledge Allegiance………
By: Homer Hirt
7/31/08
Recently I was honored to lead our Pledge of Allegiance at a local function. As I was preparing myself, I thought back to an incident that was related in Faith of My Fathers, the book written some years ago by Senator John S. McCain.
McCain told of Mike Christian, a fellow prisoner of war in the infamous "Hanoi Hilton" camp in North Vietnam. Christian, the son of an Alabama sharecropper, who had not owned a pair of shoes until he was a teenager, enlisted in the U. S. Navy, became an officer and was, like McCain, shot down over enemy territory.
One day Christian began to collect scraps of red and white cloth wherever he could find them; some coming from Red Cross packages or other packages from home. Others he found lying on the ground. When he had enough of them, he turned his blue prisoner jacket inside out and laboriously stitched, using a splinter of wood for a needle, an American flag, The dark cloth of the coat provided the blue field, the scraps of white and red formed the stars and the stripes.
Each evening, after the guards left the prisoners alone in their Spartan cell, Mike Christian would turn his jacket inside out and all would salute and pledge allegiance to the Flag, some standing, others unable to rise from their rough beds.
Then came the inevitable discovery.
One night the guards burst into the room, seized the jacket and ripped it up, and carried Mike out. After some time passed, he was thrown back through the door, horribly beaten, his eyes swelled almost shut. Senator McCain related that Christian lay on the floor for a short time and then began crawling around, picking up scraps of cloth and thread.
When I stepped forward to lead in the Pledge, I thought about this story.
I realized that we could go to almost any store in the area and purchase a flag, and not pay more than a few dollars. And I knew that in many of our state and county offices someone would give us a flag with no questions asked.
Indeed, when a veteran dies, our own government provides a large flag to cover the casket and to be passed on to the next of kin as a memorial for the fallen soldier, sailor, marine or airman.
I knew that, on this day and on many others, we would, in free assembly, recite the words together.
For none of these actions do we have to fear being beaten.
We can repeat the words, if we wish to do so, in our homes or in public and do it safely and with feeling and meaning.
And, just as importantly, we do not have to take part in this ritual.
So, if you wish to do so, join with me in remembering Mike Christian by reciting:
I pledge allegiance to the Flag
Of the United States of America,
And to the Republic for which it stands;
One Nation under God,
With liberty and justice for all.
7/31/08
Recently I was honored to lead our Pledge of Allegiance at a local function. As I was preparing myself, I thought back to an incident that was related in Faith of My Fathers, the book written some years ago by Senator John S. McCain.
McCain told of Mike Christian, a fellow prisoner of war in the infamous "Hanoi Hilton" camp in North Vietnam. Christian, the son of an Alabama sharecropper, who had not owned a pair of shoes until he was a teenager, enlisted in the U. S. Navy, became an officer and was, like McCain, shot down over enemy territory.
One day Christian began to collect scraps of red and white cloth wherever he could find them; some coming from Red Cross packages or other packages from home. Others he found lying on the ground. When he had enough of them, he turned his blue prisoner jacket inside out and laboriously stitched, using a splinter of wood for a needle, an American flag, The dark cloth of the coat provided the blue field, the scraps of white and red formed the stars and the stripes.
Each evening, after the guards left the prisoners alone in their Spartan cell, Mike Christian would turn his jacket inside out and all would salute and pledge allegiance to the Flag, some standing, others unable to rise from their rough beds.
Then came the inevitable discovery.
One night the guards burst into the room, seized the jacket and ripped it up, and carried Mike out. After some time passed, he was thrown back through the door, horribly beaten, his eyes swelled almost shut. Senator McCain related that Christian lay on the floor for a short time and then began crawling around, picking up scraps of cloth and thread.
When I stepped forward to lead in the Pledge, I thought about this story.
I realized that we could go to almost any store in the area and purchase a flag, and not pay more than a few dollars. And I knew that in many of our state and county offices someone would give us a flag with no questions asked.
Indeed, when a veteran dies, our own government provides a large flag to cover the casket and to be passed on to the next of kin as a memorial for the fallen soldier, sailor, marine or airman.
I knew that, on this day and on many others, we would, in free assembly, recite the words together.
For none of these actions do we have to fear being beaten.
We can repeat the words, if we wish to do so, in our homes or in public and do it safely and with feeling and meaning.
And, just as importantly, we do not have to take part in this ritual.
So, if you wish to do so, join with me in remembering Mike Christian by reciting:
I pledge allegiance to the Flag
Of the United States of America,
And to the Republic for which it stands;
One Nation under God,
With liberty and justice for all.
Letter to the Editor 7/31/08
To the Jackson County Times
On behalf of the First United Methodist Church, the First Presbyterian Church and the Presbytery of Florida I would like to thank you very sincerely for all of the fine publicity which you gave to the visit of the Siyaya Group from South Africa to Marianna on Thursday, July 17. Thanks to your efforts, and those of others in the community, the Wesley Center at the First United Methodist Church was almost filled to capacity for their performance.
Marianna had the distinction of being the smallest community in which they performed on their six week tour of the United States. Thanks to everyone’s support, though, we did not have the distinction of having their smallest audience, or the smallest offering that they received. Marianna can be proud of the welcome extended to these very talented singers and dancers. Thanks again for all that you did to help our community give them such a warm reception.
Yours sincerely,
Huw Christopher Pastor,
First Presbyterian Church, Marianna
On behalf of the First United Methodist Church, the First Presbyterian Church and the Presbytery of Florida I would like to thank you very sincerely for all of the fine publicity which you gave to the visit of the Siyaya Group from South Africa to Marianna on Thursday, July 17. Thanks to your efforts, and those of others in the community, the Wesley Center at the First United Methodist Church was almost filled to capacity for their performance.
Marianna had the distinction of being the smallest community in which they performed on their six week tour of the United States. Thanks to everyone’s support, though, we did not have the distinction of having their smallest audience, or the smallest offering that they received. Marianna can be proud of the welcome extended to these very talented singers and dancers. Thanks again for all that you did to help our community give them such a warm reception.
Yours sincerely,
Huw Christopher Pastor,
First Presbyterian Church, Marianna
Republican "Caravan" in Marianna on Saturday
7/31/08
Dignitaries Tour Northwest Florida To Open McCain Victory Headquarters Offices
At about 4:30 Saturday afternoon, things were buzzing around the building at Connors Realty as a crowd of Republican supporters, party officials, and numerous candidates prepared for the arrival of the party "caravan" that was making the rounds of Florida panhandle cities that day. Complete with banners, signs, and refreshments, the event showed our visitors that the "republican spirit" was very much alive and flourishing in Jackson County.
Jackson County Republican Party Chairman Sandy Helms hosted the event which had the Republican Party of Florida Chairman, Jim Greer, as the keynote speaker. Chairman Greer arrived in Marianna accompanied by Republican National Committeewoman Sharon Day and Republican National Committeeman Paul Senft. The prominent trio had started the morning in Pensacola at the grand opening of the Escambia County McCain Victory Headquarters and moved across the Panhandle in an automobile caravan convoy to open other Victory offices.
Addressing a standing room only crowd, Chairman Greer spoke about Senator John McCain’s knowledge and abilities to lead America to a time of peace and prosperity. Representative Marti Coley; local Republican candidates; and Florida House of Representatives District 5 Republican candidate Brad Drake were special guests at the grand opening.
The new McCain Victory Headquarters located at 4389 Lafayette Street, Suite B in Marianna. The Republican Party of Jackson County historically opens a headquarters within 100 days of the General Election.
Dignitaries Tour Northwest Florida To Open McCain Victory Headquarters Offices
At about 4:30 Saturday afternoon, things were buzzing around the building at Connors Realty as a crowd of Republican supporters, party officials, and numerous candidates prepared for the arrival of the party "caravan" that was making the rounds of Florida panhandle cities that day. Complete with banners, signs, and refreshments, the event showed our visitors that the "republican spirit" was very much alive and flourishing in Jackson County.
Jackson County Republican Party Chairman Sandy Helms hosted the event which had the Republican Party of Florida Chairman, Jim Greer, as the keynote speaker. Chairman Greer arrived in Marianna accompanied by Republican National Committeewoman Sharon Day and Republican National Committeeman Paul Senft. The prominent trio had started the morning in Pensacola at the grand opening of the Escambia County McCain Victory Headquarters and moved across the Panhandle in an automobile caravan convoy to open other Victory offices.
Addressing a standing room only crowd, Chairman Greer spoke about Senator John McCain’s knowledge and abilities to lead America to a time of peace and prosperity. Representative Marti Coley; local Republican candidates; and Florida House of Representatives District 5 Republican candidate Brad Drake were special guests at the grand opening.
The new McCain Victory Headquarters located at 4389 Lafayette Street, Suite B in Marianna. The Republican Party of Jackson County historically opens a headquarters within 100 days of the General Election.
The Great Flood of 1947 Remembered
7/31/08
Marianna – A collection of photographs submitted to the Jackson County Times by retired Clerk of Courts Daun Crews recalls to memory one of the most significant disasters in the history of Jackson County.
The "Flood of 1947" was part of a national tragedy that also impacted residents across Jackson County. A series of slow moving tropical systems had combined with unusual weather conditions in the Midwest that year to generate torrential rains across eight states. As a result, thousands of people were driven from their homes and entire communities were washed away.
In Jackson County, the Chattahoochee, Apalachicola and Chipola Rivers – as well as numerous smaller creeks and streams – overflowed their banks, swamping houses, farms and roads. People were driven from their homes with little notice as rising waters established new 100 year flood levels.
The magnitude of the disaster is difficult to assess today, because at that time modern emergency management procedures did not exist, but citizen memories of areas flooded are startling to say the least. In eastern Jackson County, for example, communities located miles inland from the Chattahoochee River were cut off from outside communication by raging flood waters. The Chipola, as well, turned from a peaceful stream to a muddy torrent of water.
Railroad and highway travel between Marianna and Chattahoochee was cut by the flood and virtually every low lying area in the county was inundated.
This flood was the final straw in forcing the decision to construct the Jim Woodruff Dam between Chattahoochee and Sneads. The first of a series of dams on the Chattahoochee River, the Woodruff facility has since controlled the flow of the river sufficiently to prevent another overflow of the magnitude of the 1947 event.
Weather conditions have also not repeated the unique pattern experienced in 1947 and, even though the Chipola remains a beautiful, free-flowing stream, it has not since approached the levels reached during the great flood of 47’. Sooner or later, though, there is little doubt that the center of Jackson County will experience another "100 year flood."
Marianna – A collection of photographs submitted to the Jackson County Times by retired Clerk of Courts Daun Crews recalls to memory one of the most significant disasters in the history of Jackson County.
The "Flood of 1947" was part of a national tragedy that also impacted residents across Jackson County. A series of slow moving tropical systems had combined with unusual weather conditions in the Midwest that year to generate torrential rains across eight states. As a result, thousands of people were driven from their homes and entire communities were washed away.
In Jackson County, the Chattahoochee, Apalachicola and Chipola Rivers – as well as numerous smaller creeks and streams – overflowed their banks, swamping houses, farms and roads. People were driven from their homes with little notice as rising waters established new 100 year flood levels.
The magnitude of the disaster is difficult to assess today, because at that time modern emergency management procedures did not exist, but citizen memories of areas flooded are startling to say the least. In eastern Jackson County, for example, communities located miles inland from the Chattahoochee River were cut off from outside communication by raging flood waters. The Chipola, as well, turned from a peaceful stream to a muddy torrent of water.
Railroad and highway travel between Marianna and Chattahoochee was cut by the flood and virtually every low lying area in the county was inundated.
This flood was the final straw in forcing the decision to construct the Jim Woodruff Dam between Chattahoochee and Sneads. The first of a series of dams on the Chattahoochee River, the Woodruff facility has since controlled the flow of the river sufficiently to prevent another overflow of the magnitude of the 1947 event.
Weather conditions have also not repeated the unique pattern experienced in 1947 and, even though the Chipola remains a beautiful, free-flowing stream, it has not since approached the levels reached during the great flood of 47’. Sooner or later, though, there is little doubt that the center of Jackson County will experience another "100 year flood."
New Addition To The Marianna Skyline
7/31/08
By: Sid Riley
A little more beauty has been added to the Marianna skyline thanks to a beautiful new "Flame and Cross" which has been added to the First United Methodist Church steeple on Caledonia Street. This new feature includes a re-brightened gold colored dome, now highlighted by a meaningful white cross accompanied by a red flame, to symbolize the death of Christ on the cross and the Holy Spirit.
This new adornment for the church replaces the gold orb and cross that had adorned the steeple for over forty years. The previous steeple icon had been donated to the church by the family of Otto Reiff in his memory, but had become so weather and time worn that it had to be replaced. The Reiff family has historically financially supported many capital projects within this beautiful church for several generations. The Reiff family has been instrumental in the preservation and continuing beauty of this wonderful facility.
This new addition to the magnificent and historic church building was provided by a special capital improvement fund which has been working towards this project for over a year. The Board of Trustees, chaired by Ken Stoutamire is in charge of facility management within the church, and they appointed Trustee Jack Porterfield to be in charge of this particular project.
From information gathered in conversation with Mr. Porterfield, we found that the project involved replacing the original copper covering of the dome with new, brighter copper. The original copper was installed in 1918. The new dome has decorative jointing lines instead of the smooth surface of the previous dome. The white cross and scarlet flame is the traditional internationally recognized Methodist Church insignia. The new dome and icons are expected to endure for another fifty to one hundred years. A new shingled roof is also being simultaneously installed.
Thus, the Marianna skyline has a new feature. This new copper dome and the symbolic church insignia will undoubtedly highlight this historical structure for another hundred years.
By: Sid Riley
A little more beauty has been added to the Marianna skyline thanks to a beautiful new "Flame and Cross" which has been added to the First United Methodist Church steeple on Caledonia Street. This new feature includes a re-brightened gold colored dome, now highlighted by a meaningful white cross accompanied by a red flame, to symbolize the death of Christ on the cross and the Holy Spirit.
This new adornment for the church replaces the gold orb and cross that had adorned the steeple for over forty years. The previous steeple icon had been donated to the church by the family of Otto Reiff in his memory, but had become so weather and time worn that it had to be replaced. The Reiff family has historically financially supported many capital projects within this beautiful church for several generations. The Reiff family has been instrumental in the preservation and continuing beauty of this wonderful facility.
This new addition to the magnificent and historic church building was provided by a special capital improvement fund which has been working towards this project for over a year. The Board of Trustees, chaired by Ken Stoutamire is in charge of facility management within the church, and they appointed Trustee Jack Porterfield to be in charge of this particular project.
From information gathered in conversation with Mr. Porterfield, we found that the project involved replacing the original copper covering of the dome with new, brighter copper. The original copper was installed in 1918. The new dome has decorative jointing lines instead of the smooth surface of the previous dome. The white cross and scarlet flame is the traditional internationally recognized Methodist Church insignia. The new dome and icons are expected to endure for another fifty to one hundred years. A new shingled roof is also being simultaneously installed.
Thus, the Marianna skyline has a new feature. This new copper dome and the symbolic church insignia will undoubtedly highlight this historical structure for another hundred years.
Meet William Harvey, A Lifetime of Service
7/31/08
Example of a Christian Lifetime spirit serving our community
By Sid Riley
He is a man of many talents. He can fix you automobile….or he can fix your soul. He has spent his entire life doing both. When he addresses you in his deep, sincere voice which is normally accompanied by a twinkle in his eye and a warm smile, there is something unique about the aura of dignity and honesty he conveys.
William Harvey has been married to his lifelong friend and companion, Sister Pat Harvey for fifty-seven years. They have one daughter who lives in Lakeland, three grand children, and three great-grandchildren.
William is the first of seven children, born in 1931 in Grand Ridge. His parents were Susie and Tom Harvey. William graduated from Jackson County Training School and then attended Chipola College. His wife, Pat grew up in her home near Bellamy Bridge, and attended school in Greenwood.
William Harvey first went to work as an auto repairman, working in the garage operated by Jack Minchew, located in the triangle near the former site of the Caravan Restaurant. Finally, Harvey went into business for himself, starting Harvey’s Motors located on Highway 71 North in 1966. For over fifteen years he operated at that site until he later moved his business to Old U.S. Road near his residence. His business was always one of the most reasonable and most reliable places in Jackson County to have your car repaired or serviced. Harvey consistently operated his business with a Christian philosophy of honesty and integrity.
William Harvey retired from the automotive repair business in 1988 after thirty-three years of auto repair work, but his career was far from over. Because of his strong faith in God, and his ability to earn the respect of all who know him, he found himself thrust into the process of ministering to others. Today he is lovingly referred to by many as "everybody’s minister". He is the man that many families in the black communities in Jackson County want to be their minister at funerals, weddings, and other meaningful events in their lives.
He has been the official minister for the Buckhorn Missionary Baptist Church, near Greenwood for thirty-two years. However, in reality his ministry reaches far beyond a single church. One of the many who love and respect him, Sister Sharon McMillion, says of Harvey:
"He is as faithful as Abraham,
He is as full of good as Dorcus,
He is as obedient as Paul,
He is a God fearing,
Bible preaching man,
He is everybody’s preacher"
Harvey began preaching in 1975 and received his "Certificate of Ordination" in 1976. In that same year he became the full time minister for Buckhorn Missionary Baptist Church. Today that church has grown to over 160 members. William Harvey is also the Vice-Moderator for the 2nd West Missionary Baptist Association, which covers thirty six churches over a three county area. His ministerial duties with his own church, combined with this position with the Baptist Association, creates a busy schedule for those needing his service. His phone often rings during the late hours of the night, requiring him to rise to help some family in need….he is everybody’s preacher.
William Harvey is another example of the thousands of wonderful people we are fortunate to have living in our Jackson County community. May God continue to bless him, his family, and his work.
Example of a Christian Lifetime spirit serving our community
By Sid Riley
He is a man of many talents. He can fix you automobile….or he can fix your soul. He has spent his entire life doing both. When he addresses you in his deep, sincere voice which is normally accompanied by a twinkle in his eye and a warm smile, there is something unique about the aura of dignity and honesty he conveys.
William Harvey has been married to his lifelong friend and companion, Sister Pat Harvey for fifty-seven years. They have one daughter who lives in Lakeland, three grand children, and three great-grandchildren.
William is the first of seven children, born in 1931 in Grand Ridge. His parents were Susie and Tom Harvey. William graduated from Jackson County Training School and then attended Chipola College. His wife, Pat grew up in her home near Bellamy Bridge, and attended school in Greenwood.
William Harvey first went to work as an auto repairman, working in the garage operated by Jack Minchew, located in the triangle near the former site of the Caravan Restaurant. Finally, Harvey went into business for himself, starting Harvey’s Motors located on Highway 71 North in 1966. For over fifteen years he operated at that site until he later moved his business to Old U.S. Road near his residence. His business was always one of the most reasonable and most reliable places in Jackson County to have your car repaired or serviced. Harvey consistently operated his business with a Christian philosophy of honesty and integrity.
William Harvey retired from the automotive repair business in 1988 after thirty-three years of auto repair work, but his career was far from over. Because of his strong faith in God, and his ability to earn the respect of all who know him, he found himself thrust into the process of ministering to others. Today he is lovingly referred to by many as "everybody’s minister". He is the man that many families in the black communities in Jackson County want to be their minister at funerals, weddings, and other meaningful events in their lives.
He has been the official minister for the Buckhorn Missionary Baptist Church, near Greenwood for thirty-two years. However, in reality his ministry reaches far beyond a single church. One of the many who love and respect him, Sister Sharon McMillion, says of Harvey:
"He is as faithful as Abraham,
He is as full of good as Dorcus,
He is as obedient as Paul,
He is a God fearing,
Bible preaching man,
He is everybody’s preacher"
Harvey began preaching in 1975 and received his "Certificate of Ordination" in 1976. In that same year he became the full time minister for Buckhorn Missionary Baptist Church. Today that church has grown to over 160 members. William Harvey is also the Vice-Moderator for the 2nd West Missionary Baptist Association, which covers thirty six churches over a three county area. His ministerial duties with his own church, combined with this position with the Baptist Association, creates a busy schedule for those needing his service. His phone often rings during the late hours of the night, requiring him to rise to help some family in need….he is everybody’s preacher.
William Harvey is another example of the thousands of wonderful people we are fortunate to have living in our Jackson County community. May God continue to bless him, his family, and his work.
Remembering Florida’s Lost County
7/31/08
By: Dale Cox
Eastern Jackson County – One of the more unique political fiascos in Florida history took place in 1832 when the Territory’s Legislative Council carved off the eastern half of Jackson County to create an entirely new political entity. Called Fayette County (after the Marquis de Lafayette, a hero of the American Revolution), the new county was a political boondoggle of the first order.
For five years, the communities of Marianna and Webbville had been engaged in a fierce political battle, with both communities wanting to become the county seat of Jackson County. Although Webbville received the county seat designation of the U.S. Congress, Marianna ultimately prevailed in the fight when the Legislative Council (the equivalent of today’s state legislature) levied fines against any public officials not doing business from the new city on the Chipola.
Unwilling to give up the fight without one last attempt, the promoters of Webbville devised the bizarre strategy of giving away half of the county in order to win the coveted county seat title. In a flurry of intense lobbying, they convinced the members of the Legislative Council that the people of eastern Jackson County would be happier if they could govern themselves.
Accordingly, on February 9, 1832, the council approved "An Act to organize a new county to be called the County of Fayette." Encompassing the entire area of today’s Jackson and Calhoun Counties between the Chipola and Chattahoochee/Apalachicola River systems, the new county stretched from the Alabama line south to the northern limits of today’s Franklin (then part of Washington) County. The modern communities of Malone, Bascom, Greenwood, Two Egg, Dellwood, Cypress, Grand Ridge, Sneads, Altha and Blountstown are all located within the limits of the original Fayette County.
On the same day, the council also incorporated the "Town of Ocheesee" at Ocheesee Bluff in what is now Calhoun County to serve as a county seat for the new county and construction was soon underway there on both a courthouse and jail.
The strategy of the Webbville promoters was to remove a large block of pro-Marianna voters from Jackson County. However, this sly plan was soon dashed when the council approved a new election to determine a permanent county seat for Jackson County. Governor James D. Westcott quickly realized what was happening. Just two days after the creation of Fayette County, he vetoed the election bill for Jackson County. In a letter to the leaders of the Legislative Council, he noted that after contentious debate the county seat issue in Jackson County had finally been resolved. "I am averse to disturbing the quiet of the county by raising the question again if it can be avoided," he wrote. The governor also called into question the whole Fayette County debacle, "Had I anticipated the agitation of it, when the bill for forming Fayette county was under consideration, it would have formed an additional objection to that act."
Webbville’s final effort had failed. Although Fayette County became a reality, it was short-lived. Just one year after the creation of the new county, the Legislative Council responded to pleas from residents living in its northern areas and reunited them with Jackson County. Ten months later, on January 15, 1834, the residents from the remaining part of Fayette County filed a similar petition in Tallahassee.
Fayette County disappeared from the map of Florida on February 1, 1834, when the Legislative Council repealed its earlier act creating the county. In existence for only two years, it is now remembered as "Florida’s Lost County."
Editor’s Note: Writer and historian Dale Cox is the author of The History of Jackson County, Florida: Volume One as well as several other books on area history. He is a regular contributor to the Jackson County Times. You can read more of his writings on local history by visiting the local history section at www.jacksoncountytimes.net.
By: Dale Cox
Eastern Jackson County – One of the more unique political fiascos in Florida history took place in 1832 when the Territory’s Legislative Council carved off the eastern half of Jackson County to create an entirely new political entity. Called Fayette County (after the Marquis de Lafayette, a hero of the American Revolution), the new county was a political boondoggle of the first order.
For five years, the communities of Marianna and Webbville had been engaged in a fierce political battle, with both communities wanting to become the county seat of Jackson County. Although Webbville received the county seat designation of the U.S. Congress, Marianna ultimately prevailed in the fight when the Legislative Council (the equivalent of today’s state legislature) levied fines against any public officials not doing business from the new city on the Chipola.
Unwilling to give up the fight without one last attempt, the promoters of Webbville devised the bizarre strategy of giving away half of the county in order to win the coveted county seat title. In a flurry of intense lobbying, they convinced the members of the Legislative Council that the people of eastern Jackson County would be happier if they could govern themselves.
Accordingly, on February 9, 1832, the council approved "An Act to organize a new county to be called the County of Fayette." Encompassing the entire area of today’s Jackson and Calhoun Counties between the Chipola and Chattahoochee/Apalachicola River systems, the new county stretched from the Alabama line south to the northern limits of today’s Franklin (then part of Washington) County. The modern communities of Malone, Bascom, Greenwood, Two Egg, Dellwood, Cypress, Grand Ridge, Sneads, Altha and Blountstown are all located within the limits of the original Fayette County.
On the same day, the council also incorporated the "Town of Ocheesee" at Ocheesee Bluff in what is now Calhoun County to serve as a county seat for the new county and construction was soon underway there on both a courthouse and jail.
The strategy of the Webbville promoters was to remove a large block of pro-Marianna voters from Jackson County. However, this sly plan was soon dashed when the council approved a new election to determine a permanent county seat for Jackson County. Governor James D. Westcott quickly realized what was happening. Just two days after the creation of Fayette County, he vetoed the election bill for Jackson County. In a letter to the leaders of the Legislative Council, he noted that after contentious debate the county seat issue in Jackson County had finally been resolved. "I am averse to disturbing the quiet of the county by raising the question again if it can be avoided," he wrote. The governor also called into question the whole Fayette County debacle, "Had I anticipated the agitation of it, when the bill for forming Fayette county was under consideration, it would have formed an additional objection to that act."
Webbville’s final effort had failed. Although Fayette County became a reality, it was short-lived. Just one year after the creation of the new county, the Legislative Council responded to pleas from residents living in its northern areas and reunited them with Jackson County. Ten months later, on January 15, 1834, the residents from the remaining part of Fayette County filed a similar petition in Tallahassee.
Fayette County disappeared from the map of Florida on February 1, 1834, when the Legislative Council repealed its earlier act creating the county. In existence for only two years, it is now remembered as "Florida’s Lost County."
Editor’s Note: Writer and historian Dale Cox is the author of The History of Jackson County, Florida: Volume One as well as several other books on area history. He is a regular contributor to the Jackson County Times. You can read more of his writings on local history by visiting the local history section at www.jacksoncountytimes.net.
Jerry Neel of Dellwood Wants District 5 Commission Seat
7/31/08
Dellwood native throws hat into political contest
By Sid Riley
"I just want to do my part to make things better for the people of Jackson County," was Jerry Neel’s reason when asked why he was entering the race for the District 5 Commissioner’s seat.
Jerry Neel and his family live on property near Dellwood that has been in the Neel family for 150 years. His roots run deep in the soil and history of Jackson County. Jerry graduated from the Sneads High School in the class of 1972, after which he attended Chipola College. He is the son of Earnest and Ima Jean Neel (both deceased), who lived south of Dellwood.
His bride of 33 years is the former Susie Andrews, also of Dellwood. They have three children, a son and two daughters. They also have two grandchildren, with a third due in September. Jerry and his entire family are members of the Welcome Assembly of God Church in Dellwood, were he is a deacon, President of Men’s Fellowship, while Susie serves as Sunday School Superintendent. Jerry has also served in World Missions for his church, traveling to South Africa to help in construction of a new church.
Jerry has worked as a building contractor working as co-owner of J & J Neel Construction, while he also worked as a Vocational Training Supervisor, Maintenance Supervisor, and Construction Cost Estimator at Sunland. He feels his experience as a businessman and his responsibilities at Sunland will greatly enhance his abilities as a County Commissioner.
Neel’s political philosophy is simple. He believes that local government should remain responsive to the needs and desires of the citizens. He plans to work as an instrument for the people of District 5, and Jackson County. He is especially dedicated to roads improvements, increased recreational opportunities for youth and seniors, and improved fire and police protection in rural areas. He hopes to enhance use of waterways in District 5, such as the Chipola River, Merritts Mill Pond and Lake Seminole. He believes in promoting industrial development and creation of job opportunities in a way that retains the rural character of our area.
"If elected, I pledge to always serve honestly in a hard working manner in order to make a positive difference in the lives of the citizens of Jackson County", he concludes. Jerry Neel can be reached at 209-5654.
Dellwood native throws hat into political contest
By Sid Riley
"I just want to do my part to make things better for the people of Jackson County," was Jerry Neel’s reason when asked why he was entering the race for the District 5 Commissioner’s seat.
Jerry Neel and his family live on property near Dellwood that has been in the Neel family for 150 years. His roots run deep in the soil and history of Jackson County. Jerry graduated from the Sneads High School in the class of 1972, after which he attended Chipola College. He is the son of Earnest and Ima Jean Neel (both deceased), who lived south of Dellwood.
His bride of 33 years is the former Susie Andrews, also of Dellwood. They have three children, a son and two daughters. They also have two grandchildren, with a third due in September. Jerry and his entire family are members of the Welcome Assembly of God Church in Dellwood, were he is a deacon, President of Men’s Fellowship, while Susie serves as Sunday School Superintendent. Jerry has also served in World Missions for his church, traveling to South Africa to help in construction of a new church.
Jerry has worked as a building contractor working as co-owner of J & J Neel Construction, while he also worked as a Vocational Training Supervisor, Maintenance Supervisor, and Construction Cost Estimator at Sunland. He feels his experience as a businessman and his responsibilities at Sunland will greatly enhance his abilities as a County Commissioner.
Neel’s political philosophy is simple. He believes that local government should remain responsive to the needs and desires of the citizens. He plans to work as an instrument for the people of District 5, and Jackson County. He is especially dedicated to roads improvements, increased recreational opportunities for youth and seniors, and improved fire and police protection in rural areas. He hopes to enhance use of waterways in District 5, such as the Chipola River, Merritts Mill Pond and Lake Seminole. He believes in promoting industrial development and creation of job opportunities in a way that retains the rural character of our area.
"If elected, I pledge to always serve honestly in a hard working manner in order to make a positive difference in the lives of the citizens of Jackson County", he concludes. Jerry Neel can be reached at 209-5654.
The Chamber Corner 7/24/08
Dr. Malcolm Gillis, Marianna native, Professor of Economics and former President of Rice University graciously accepted the honorary role of Chief Economist for the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce after he spoke at our May First Friday Power Breakfast. His one duty in this capacity is to periodically provide us with periodic perspectives on the economy and what current events mean for us. Here are Dr. Gillis’ observations for July:
1. Troubling geo-political developments could push oil prices up to as much as $175 per barrel, but absent that, oil prices will likely settle down to about $115-120 per barrel by year end.
2. We have a huge and flexible economy with low unemployment by historical standards and modest inflation. The capacity of our economy to adjust is much greater than many people think.
3. Fixed income and low income folks are going to get slammed, but that very personal and real pain doesn’t mean our overall economy will choke because of it.
4. Be careful not to project too much of the present into the future.
5. Be patient. Now is the time to do some bottom fishing and seize opportunity.
6. Roll with the punches but watch out for the sucker punches
7. Read the article in the June 21 issue of The Economist titled "The Power and The Glory". It is the best thing I’ve seen in one place on the subject of Alternative Energy.
Dr. Jerry Osteryoung, Director of Outreach for the Jim Moran Institute for Global Leadership, and our speaker at July’s First Friday Power Breakfast, added these thoughts to Dr. Gillis’ perspectives:
} While the economy is down, it will turn around (cycles).
} While there are challenges, there are so many opportunities.
} This is wonderful time to make needed changes in your business
} This is structural change in our economy as to how we live and work.
} High fuel prices are going to be with us much longer that the recession.
Dr. Osteryoung added these recommendations for dealing with the economy:
} Create many different contingency plans do deal with falling sales.
} Develop a plan to reduce your fuel consumption.
} Watch your business much more carefully now.
} Look at the opportunities as well as the challenges.
} Look over every vendor contract. They are willing to negotiate on price and terms.
} Refinance as much debt as you can at these lower interest rates.
} Be willing to take lower prices to keep your customers.
} Look to acquire other firms as there are many that will have significant problems.
August First Friday
The theme for our August First Friday Power Breakfast on Friday August 1st will be education, and the title of the program will be "Making the Grade – How Jackson County Schools are addressing today’s challenges". Speakers for this program will be a team of three principals from various county schools, and their presentation will be followed by a panel discussion and question and answer session with all principals of Jackson County’s schools.
This will be a great opportunity for Jackson County business and civic leaders to interact directly with the "field generals" of education… the principals who day in and day out deal with front line issues, implement programs to increase performance, and manage the work of education.
Mark your calendar for this special interactive program. Remember, its Friday August 1st at the Agricultural Conference Center on Penn Avenue. Don’t miss it!
1. Troubling geo-political developments could push oil prices up to as much as $175 per barrel, but absent that, oil prices will likely settle down to about $115-120 per barrel by year end.
2. We have a huge and flexible economy with low unemployment by historical standards and modest inflation. The capacity of our economy to adjust is much greater than many people think.
3. Fixed income and low income folks are going to get slammed, but that very personal and real pain doesn’t mean our overall economy will choke because of it.
4. Be careful not to project too much of the present into the future.
5. Be patient. Now is the time to do some bottom fishing and seize opportunity.
6. Roll with the punches but watch out for the sucker punches
7. Read the article in the June 21 issue of The Economist titled "The Power and The Glory". It is the best thing I’ve seen in one place on the subject of Alternative Energy.
Dr. Jerry Osteryoung, Director of Outreach for the Jim Moran Institute for Global Leadership, and our speaker at July’s First Friday Power Breakfast, added these thoughts to Dr. Gillis’ perspectives:
} While the economy is down, it will turn around (cycles).
} While there are challenges, there are so many opportunities.
} This is wonderful time to make needed changes in your business
} This is structural change in our economy as to how we live and work.
} High fuel prices are going to be with us much longer that the recession.
Dr. Osteryoung added these recommendations for dealing with the economy:
} Create many different contingency plans do deal with falling sales.
} Develop a plan to reduce your fuel consumption.
} Watch your business much more carefully now.
} Look at the opportunities as well as the challenges.
} Look over every vendor contract. They are willing to negotiate on price and terms.
} Refinance as much debt as you can at these lower interest rates.
} Be willing to take lower prices to keep your customers.
} Look to acquire other firms as there are many that will have significant problems.
August First Friday
The theme for our August First Friday Power Breakfast on Friday August 1st will be education, and the title of the program will be "Making the Grade – How Jackson County Schools are addressing today’s challenges". Speakers for this program will be a team of three principals from various county schools, and their presentation will be followed by a panel discussion and question and answer session with all principals of Jackson County’s schools.
This will be a great opportunity for Jackson County business and civic leaders to interact directly with the "field generals" of education… the principals who day in and day out deal with front line issues, implement programs to increase performance, and manage the work of education.
Mark your calendar for this special interactive program. Remember, its Friday August 1st at the Agricultural Conference Center on Penn Avenue. Don’t miss it!
Rotary News 7/24/08
Project Springs is luncheon program subject By Sid Riley
At Wednesday’s meeting at Jim’s Buffet and Grill, the Marianna Rotary Club program was a presentation on Florida’s Springs, and the Blue Springs Basin system which was presented by Chipola Professor Allan Tidwell. He was introduced by program sponsor, Dale Cavin.
Tidwell informed the group that there are over 700 active springs in the State of Florida, only 33 of which are classified as 1st magnitude springs. This designation means that the spring produces 60,000,000 gallons or more of water per day. Our Jackson Blue Springs produces over 120,000,000 gallons per day.
The "Jackson Blue Springs Work Project is being funded by a $20,000 State grant, and another $60,000 grant as part of the Chipola Area Ground Water Project. They are in the process of hiring a "Springs Ambassador" who will work to coordinate work on these projects.
Tidwell exhibited a map that depicted all of the known "sink holes" in Jackson County. To everyone’s amazement, the map was dotted with what appeared to be thousands of sink holes. As part of their water improvement projects, the group is hoping to spark a sink hole clean up effort throughout the county, and especially in the area defined as "Blue Springs Basin". All land owners that participate in this clean-up effort will be given immunity from any liability for any of the types of items removed from sink holes on their properties.
Tidwell also discussed the high nitrate level that currently exists in the Spring and the fact that it takes some seventeen years for surface water to seep through the ground, into the aquifer, and to finally emerge from the spring. Since fertilization practices were dramatically changed some eight to ten years ago, it is hoped that we will soon see a decrease in the emerging nitrates from the spring.
A web site with more information on this subject is www.tappwater.org.
At Wednesday’s meeting at Jim’s Buffet and Grill, the Marianna Rotary Club program was a presentation on Florida’s Springs, and the Blue Springs Basin system which was presented by Chipola Professor Allan Tidwell. He was introduced by program sponsor, Dale Cavin.
Tidwell informed the group that there are over 700 active springs in the State of Florida, only 33 of which are classified as 1st magnitude springs. This designation means that the spring produces 60,000,000 gallons or more of water per day. Our Jackson Blue Springs produces over 120,000,000 gallons per day.
The "Jackson Blue Springs Work Project is being funded by a $20,000 State grant, and another $60,000 grant as part of the Chipola Area Ground Water Project. They are in the process of hiring a "Springs Ambassador" who will work to coordinate work on these projects.
Tidwell exhibited a map that depicted all of the known "sink holes" in Jackson County. To everyone’s amazement, the map was dotted with what appeared to be thousands of sink holes. As part of their water improvement projects, the group is hoping to spark a sink hole clean up effort throughout the county, and especially in the area defined as "Blue Springs Basin". All land owners that participate in this clean-up effort will be given immunity from any liability for any of the types of items removed from sink holes on their properties.
Tidwell also discussed the high nitrate level that currently exists in the Spring and the fact that it takes some seventeen years for surface water to seep through the ground, into the aquifer, and to finally emerge from the spring. Since fertilization practices were dramatically changed some eight to ten years ago, it is hoped that we will soon see a decrease in the emerging nitrates from the spring.
A web site with more information on this subject is www.tappwater.org.
Clark is New Chair of Chipola Board
7/24/08
The Chipola College District Board of Trustees recently elected Gary Clark of Chipley to serve as Chair of the Board for the 2008-09 year. Clark is vice president of Member Services for West Florida Electric Cooperative. He succeeds outgoing chair Gina Stuart, a realtor from Marianna.
Jeff Crawford Jr., of Marianna, a retired farmer, was elected vice chair of the board.
Nine trustees—appointed by the Florida Governor—represent Chipola’s five-county district on the board. They include: John Padgett, Gina Stuart and Jeff Crawford of Jackson County, Gary Clark and Jan Page of Washington County, Brenda Taylor and Bob Jones of Holmes County, Danny Ryals of Calhoun County and Mark Plummer of Liberty County.
The board meets on the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the college Public Service Building to set policy for the college.
The Chipola College District Board of Trustees recently elected Gary Clark of Chipley to serve as Chair of the Board for the 2008-09 year. Clark is vice president of Member Services for West Florida Electric Cooperative. He succeeds outgoing chair Gina Stuart, a realtor from Marianna.
Jeff Crawford Jr., of Marianna, a retired farmer, was elected vice chair of the board.
Nine trustees—appointed by the Florida Governor—represent Chipola’s five-county district on the board. They include: John Padgett, Gina Stuart and Jeff Crawford of Jackson County, Gary Clark and Jan Page of Washington County, Brenda Taylor and Bob Jones of Holmes County, Danny Ryals of Calhoun County and Mark Plummer of Liberty County.
The board meets on the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the college Public Service Building to set policy for the college.
Chipola Board Recognizes Brain Bowl Team
7/24/08
The Chipola College District Board of Trustees presented championship rings to members of the college Brain Bowl team during the board’s regular meeting at the college on Tuesday. The team captured the school’s first ever state Brain Bowl championship in March and finished second in the NAQT National Tournament in April.
Chipola scored National Tournament wins over Wake Forest, Faulkner, and Gulf Coast, and competed with Harvard, Dartmouth, Stanford, MIT, and the University of Florida. The Chipola team captured four tournament wins this season and made it to the semi-finals at two other tournaments.
Brain Bowl team members are Mark Hodge, Jantzen Whitehead, Chuck Bryant, Trey Paul and Mitchell Whitehead. Chipola coaches are Stan Young and Dr. Robert Dunkle.
The Chipola College District Board of Trustees presented championship rings to members of the college Brain Bowl team during the board’s regular meeting at the college on Tuesday. The team captured the school’s first ever state Brain Bowl championship in March and finished second in the NAQT National Tournament in April.
Chipola scored National Tournament wins over Wake Forest, Faulkner, and Gulf Coast, and competed with Harvard, Dartmouth, Stanford, MIT, and the University of Florida. The Chipola team captured four tournament wins this season and made it to the semi-finals at two other tournaments.
Brain Bowl team members are Mark Hodge, Jantzen Whitehead, Chuck Bryant, Trey Paul and Mitchell Whitehead. Chipola coaches are Stan Young and Dr. Robert Dunkle.
Southern Association of Colleges Approves New BCF Programs
7/24/08
The Baptist College of Florida in Graceville, Fl., has been approved by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to offer several new programs to include: English, English for Secondary Education, History and Social Studies, History and Social Studies for Secondary Education, Christian Studies, Ministry Studies, and Leadership and Christian Education.
"These new programs will enable us to provide for training in a much broader arena for those who will be serving our Lord in an ever increasing number of roles," stated BCF President Thomas A. Kinchen. "I am especially delighted that we received approval in the areas for Secondary Education and a new Business Program in our Leadership degree. The teacher education additions will enable us to move toward our goal of providing a comprehensive Pre-K through 12 program for teachers in public and private schools. The new business program will enable us to provide students with degrees with a focus on the much needed field of not-for-profit business. These new programs will enable our graduates to go into vastly expanded new areas of service. The Great Commission of our Lord and the desperate condition of our world demand that we do everything possible to educate and train all that we can in every way that we can to carry all of the Good News to all of the world while we can."
This action by SACS will allow BCF to pursue several changes in programming and delivery systems. A recently appointed ad-hoc committee is studying innovative new ventures in scheduling that are pointed toward making programs more readily available to our students.
The approved new programs will impact both the campus based students and distance education programs at the College. The new degrees are available beginning the fall 2008 semester. For more information on all the degrees offered at The Baptist College of Florida, please contact 800.328.2660 ext 460.
The Baptist College of Florida in Graceville, Fl., has been approved by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to offer several new programs to include: English, English for Secondary Education, History and Social Studies, History and Social Studies for Secondary Education, Christian Studies, Ministry Studies, and Leadership and Christian Education.
"These new programs will enable us to provide for training in a much broader arena for those who will be serving our Lord in an ever increasing number of roles," stated BCF President Thomas A. Kinchen. "I am especially delighted that we received approval in the areas for Secondary Education and a new Business Program in our Leadership degree. The teacher education additions will enable us to move toward our goal of providing a comprehensive Pre-K through 12 program for teachers in public and private schools. The new business program will enable us to provide students with degrees with a focus on the much needed field of not-for-profit business. These new programs will enable our graduates to go into vastly expanded new areas of service. The Great Commission of our Lord and the desperate condition of our world demand that we do everything possible to educate and train all that we can in every way that we can to carry all of the Good News to all of the world while we can."
This action by SACS will allow BCF to pursue several changes in programming and delivery systems. A recently appointed ad-hoc committee is studying innovative new ventures in scheduling that are pointed toward making programs more readily available to our students.
The approved new programs will impact both the campus based students and distance education programs at the College. The new degrees are available beginning the fall 2008 semester. For more information on all the degrees offered at The Baptist College of Florida, please contact 800.328.2660 ext 460.
Southern Association of Colleges Reaffirms BCF Accreditation Until 2018
7/24/08
In a July 11, 2008 letter to The Baptist College of Florida in Graceville, Fl., from the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) stated in part, "The following action regarding your institution was taken at the June 2008 meeting of the Commission on Colleges: The Commission on Colleges reaffirmed accreditation. No additional report was requested."
According to Dr. Tom Kinchen, BCF President, "This is tremendous news! During the last three years faculty, staff, trustees, students and administration have worked collectively to portray a true picture of the College for those who were reviewing us. I want to thank each individual who worked so hard to bring us to this great juncture. This truly has been a team effort. While we are responsible ultimately to our Lord for our stewardship at the College, we have several other bodies to which we answer. I am always delighted when they affirm our BCF family in such a positive way."
The action taken by the Commission on Colleges will enable BCF to move forward with several new programs as well as with new delivery systems. The future for the College is certainly bright as it pursues its trademark statement of "Changing the World through the Unchanging Word.®"
The next general reaffirmation of The Baptist College of Florida by the Commission will be in 2018.
In a July 11, 2008 letter to The Baptist College of Florida in Graceville, Fl., from the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) stated in part, "The following action regarding your institution was taken at the June 2008 meeting of the Commission on Colleges: The Commission on Colleges reaffirmed accreditation. No additional report was requested."
According to Dr. Tom Kinchen, BCF President, "This is tremendous news! During the last three years faculty, staff, trustees, students and administration have worked collectively to portray a true picture of the College for those who were reviewing us. I want to thank each individual who worked so hard to bring us to this great juncture. This truly has been a team effort. While we are responsible ultimately to our Lord for our stewardship at the College, we have several other bodies to which we answer. I am always delighted when they affirm our BCF family in such a positive way."
The action taken by the Commission on Colleges will enable BCF to move forward with several new programs as well as with new delivery systems. The future for the College is certainly bright as it pursues its trademark statement of "Changing the World through the Unchanging Word.®"
The next general reaffirmation of The Baptist College of Florida by the Commission will be in 2018.
Local Cub Scouts Tour Eglin Aviation Museum
7/24/08
Cub Scouts from Pack 170 in Marianna enjoyed a field trip on July 19, to the Eglin Air Force Armament Museum (AFAM), which is just north of Ft. Walton Beach /Destin. The AFAM is the only museum in the world dedicated to the collection, preservation, and exhibition of artifacts and memorabilia associated with Air Force Armament and its’ delivery platforms.
Staff Sergeant Alan Mathis of the Air Force 202nd Division, who is the father of Bear Scout Ryan Mathis, helped with arrangements for the trip and a tour of the facility. Scout leaders Steve and Mary Ann Hutton were also instrumental in making the trip possible for the boys. Several officers talked with the scouts and provided much interesting information, as well as answering many questions from the scouts.
Two of the officers, Captain Mark Morrell and Captain Ed Long, were involved in the scouting program during their youth and progressed to the highest rank of Eagle Scout. Following the tour of the outside equipment and all the displays inside the two-story museum, a picnic lunch was enjoyed by the scouts before departing to return home. If you would like to know more about scouting, please e-mail Mary Ann Hutton at cokehut@digitalexp.com, or call 209-2818.
Cub Scouts from Pack 170 in Marianna enjoyed a field trip on July 19, to the Eglin Air Force Armament Museum (AFAM), which is just north of Ft. Walton Beach /Destin. The AFAM is the only museum in the world dedicated to the collection, preservation, and exhibition of artifacts and memorabilia associated with Air Force Armament and its’ delivery platforms.
Staff Sergeant Alan Mathis of the Air Force 202nd Division, who is the father of Bear Scout Ryan Mathis, helped with arrangements for the trip and a tour of the facility. Scout leaders Steve and Mary Ann Hutton were also instrumental in making the trip possible for the boys. Several officers talked with the scouts and provided much interesting information, as well as answering many questions from the scouts.
Two of the officers, Captain Mark Morrell and Captain Ed Long, were involved in the scouting program during their youth and progressed to the highest rank of Eagle Scout. Following the tour of the outside equipment and all the displays inside the two-story museum, a picnic lunch was enjoyed by the scouts before departing to return home. If you would like to know more about scouting, please e-mail Mary Ann Hutton at cokehut@digitalexp.com, or call 209-2818.
Sneads Teacher Pleads Guilty
7/24/08
Tommy Stoutamire sentenced to one year in Liberty County Jail and 14 years probation as sex offender
By Sid Riley
On Tuesday in Judge Wright’s courtroom at the Jackson County Court House, a saga which has plagued several families, the Jackson County School System, and the Sneads High School student body, finally came to an end. Accepting a plea bargain, the former Sneads High FFA teacher pleaded guilty to four counts of multiple charges relating to inappropriate offenses against four of his former female students. He pleaded guilty to child abuse, false imprisonment, one count of battery, and three counts of lewd and lascivious molestation.
The sentence also included the provision that his teaching certificates were to be rescinded, and that he can never teach again. He also wrote a letter of apology to the four families that were involved in his case. There may be civil action taken against Stoutamire by the families, now that the criminal cases have been completed. Stoutamire was immediately fingerprinted and placed under arrest for delivery to Liberty County.
Tommy Stoutamire sentenced to one year in Liberty County Jail and 14 years probation as sex offender
By Sid Riley
On Tuesday in Judge Wright’s courtroom at the Jackson County Court House, a saga which has plagued several families, the Jackson County School System, and the Sneads High School student body, finally came to an end. Accepting a plea bargain, the former Sneads High FFA teacher pleaded guilty to four counts of multiple charges relating to inappropriate offenses against four of his former female students. He pleaded guilty to child abuse, false imprisonment, one count of battery, and three counts of lewd and lascivious molestation.
The sentence also included the provision that his teaching certificates were to be rescinded, and that he can never teach again. He also wrote a letter of apology to the four families that were involved in his case. There may be civil action taken against Stoutamire by the families, now that the criminal cases have been completed. Stoutamire was immediately fingerprinted and placed under arrest for delivery to Liberty County.
Remembering the “Federal Road”
7/24/08
By: Dale Cox
Compass Lake – When the United States acquired Florida from Spain in 1821, few people had any idea of the dramatic size of the territory. More than 400 miles of wilderness separated Pensacola and St. Augustine, the only two cities in Florida and little more than a rugged footpath that took six weeks to travel connected the two places.
As settlers flooded into the new American territory, the complete lack of a transportation network proved astounding. A call went up to the U.S. Congress for help and on February 28, 1824, an act was passed approving the construction of a "Federal Road" linking Pensacola and St. Augustine.
The task for building this road fell on the shoulders of Captain Daniel Burch, an army officer that had participated in Andrew Jackson’s 1818 campaign. Anticipating the project, he started working in 1823 to consider possible routes and develop cost estimates.
Burch quickly found that the available maps of Florida were extremely inaccurate. In one report, for example, he noted that he had added the course of the "Choppoola" or Chipola River to his charts because the mapmaker had simply not known of its existence.
The more he explored, the more he also came to realize that the plan of Congress to build a 25-foot road all the way from Pensacola to St. Augustine was simply impossible with the means at hand. In fact, he soon became convinced that even removing tree stumps from the path would be unnecessary and impossible. "In opening a road of this kind," he wrote, "it is altogether unnecessary to dig or cut off the stumps level with the ground, unless occasionally when one happens to stand directly in the route, nor is it necessary to cut it through the open woods wider than for one wagon to pass with ease."
The actual survey of a proposed route for the road began in late October of 1824, when Burch and a detachment of 22 men from the 4th United States Infantry set out from Pensacola to mark the construction lines of the project. It took them 34 days to reach St. Augustine, but they settled on a route for the highway.
Captain Burch intentionally platted his road to lead through some of the least desirable lands in Florida because the open scrub woods would be easy to clear and speed the construction process. From Deer Point on Pensacola Bay at present-day Gulf Breeze, the proposed route led west to Choctawhatchee Bay then turned to the northeast and crossed the Choctawhatchee River at the "Cow Ford." So named because it was a place where cows could be driven across the river, the ford was near present-day Ebro in Washington County. From here the route led on to the natural bridge of Econfina Creek and then angled northeast again to a point near the southern shore of Compass Lake. Turning east and southeast, it led through southern Jackson County until it intersected with today’s State Highway 73 about 1.5 miles north of the Calhoun County line. Crossing the Chipola River into Calhoun County at this point, the road led on to Ocheesee Bluff on the Apalachicola River.
Construction on the road began near Pensacola on October 5, 1824 and the section through Jackson and Calhoun Counties was completed in June of 1825.
Although Burch believed his road would become the "great leading road of the country," he soon learned otherwise. Because his route led primarily through scrub lands, the road proved of little benefit to the actual settlers of Northwest Florida. By 1830, residents in Jackson County had already built a new road linking Marianna and Webbville with Chattahoochee to the east and Holmes Valley to the west. The Federal Road was bypassed and fell into disuse. For Jackson County, at least, it became little more than a wasted government appropriation.
A few miles of the original route can still be traced along dirt roads in the southern edge of Jackson County, but little else remains to remind residents that the Federal Road ever existed. It has been common over the years to mistake today’s "Old U.S. Road" with this original path, but the two were separate. The "Old U.S. Road" was built in 1836-1838 by the U.S. Army to connect Alabama with Apalachicola Bay by way of Marianna. It ran from north to south, while the original Federal Road ran from west to east.
Editor’s Note: A detailed account of the Federal Road is presented in a chapter of writer and historian Dale Cox’s new book, The History of Jackson County, Florida: Volume One. For more information on ordering your copy, please visit www.jacksoncountytimes.net.
By: Dale Cox
Compass Lake – When the United States acquired Florida from Spain in 1821, few people had any idea of the dramatic size of the territory. More than 400 miles of wilderness separated Pensacola and St. Augustine, the only two cities in Florida and little more than a rugged footpath that took six weeks to travel connected the two places.
As settlers flooded into the new American territory, the complete lack of a transportation network proved astounding. A call went up to the U.S. Congress for help and on February 28, 1824, an act was passed approving the construction of a "Federal Road" linking Pensacola and St. Augustine.
The task for building this road fell on the shoulders of Captain Daniel Burch, an army officer that had participated in Andrew Jackson’s 1818 campaign. Anticipating the project, he started working in 1823 to consider possible routes and develop cost estimates.
Burch quickly found that the available maps of Florida were extremely inaccurate. In one report, for example, he noted that he had added the course of the "Choppoola" or Chipola River to his charts because the mapmaker had simply not known of its existence.
The more he explored, the more he also came to realize that the plan of Congress to build a 25-foot road all the way from Pensacola to St. Augustine was simply impossible with the means at hand. In fact, he soon became convinced that even removing tree stumps from the path would be unnecessary and impossible. "In opening a road of this kind," he wrote, "it is altogether unnecessary to dig or cut off the stumps level with the ground, unless occasionally when one happens to stand directly in the route, nor is it necessary to cut it through the open woods wider than for one wagon to pass with ease."
The actual survey of a proposed route for the road began in late October of 1824, when Burch and a detachment of 22 men from the 4th United States Infantry set out from Pensacola to mark the construction lines of the project. It took them 34 days to reach St. Augustine, but they settled on a route for the highway.
Captain Burch intentionally platted his road to lead through some of the least desirable lands in Florida because the open scrub woods would be easy to clear and speed the construction process. From Deer Point on Pensacola Bay at present-day Gulf Breeze, the proposed route led west to Choctawhatchee Bay then turned to the northeast and crossed the Choctawhatchee River at the "Cow Ford." So named because it was a place where cows could be driven across the river, the ford was near present-day Ebro in Washington County. From here the route led on to the natural bridge of Econfina Creek and then angled northeast again to a point near the southern shore of Compass Lake. Turning east and southeast, it led through southern Jackson County until it intersected with today’s State Highway 73 about 1.5 miles north of the Calhoun County line. Crossing the Chipola River into Calhoun County at this point, the road led on to Ocheesee Bluff on the Apalachicola River.
Construction on the road began near Pensacola on October 5, 1824 and the section through Jackson and Calhoun Counties was completed in June of 1825.
Although Burch believed his road would become the "great leading road of the country," he soon learned otherwise. Because his route led primarily through scrub lands, the road proved of little benefit to the actual settlers of Northwest Florida. By 1830, residents in Jackson County had already built a new road linking Marianna and Webbville with Chattahoochee to the east and Holmes Valley to the west. The Federal Road was bypassed and fell into disuse. For Jackson County, at least, it became little more than a wasted government appropriation.
A few miles of the original route can still be traced along dirt roads in the southern edge of Jackson County, but little else remains to remind residents that the Federal Road ever existed. It has been common over the years to mistake today’s "Old U.S. Road" with this original path, but the two were separate. The "Old U.S. Road" was built in 1836-1838 by the U.S. Army to connect Alabama with Apalachicola Bay by way of Marianna. It ran from north to south, while the original Federal Road ran from west to east.
Editor’s Note: A detailed account of the Federal Road is presented in a chapter of writer and historian Dale Cox’s new book, The History of Jackson County, Florida: Volume One. For more information on ordering your copy, please visit www.jacksoncountytimes.net.
County Commission Acts on Two Industrial Bond Requests
By: Sid Riley
7/24/08
At the Tuesday evening meeting of the Jackson County Commission, Bill Stanton, Director of the Jackson County Development Council made two formal requests to the Board relating to approval authorization for Industrial Bond Issuance. The County is merely the "pass through" agency for this process, giving legal authorization for the issuance of these bonds if the projects proceed as defined.
In the case of ‘Project Springs" the request is for approval for sale of $10,000,000 in industrial revenue bonds. This project does not involve any tax concessions to the new industry which will modify the Russell Distribution Center at the Marianna Airport Industrial Park in order for the facility to properly house their new state of the art bottling plant. The project will result in $25,000,000 being added to the county property tax rolls, and will initially employ 30 workers, with planned growth to 100 jobs. The project also includes construction of a $75,000 water retention system that will facilitate that area of the industrial park. This project has been underway for almost two years, and is near becoming a reality.
The second request was for an agreement to allow issuance of Industrial Bonds totaling $40,000,000 which would be a component of a total package of incentives that would be offered to a prospective ethanol production plant which would be located just southwest of Campbellton. In this proposal there are no tax concessions being offered, and the capital investment would total over $200,000,000 which would make this company the largest tax payer in the county, and would double the investment of the new Green Circle BioEnergy plant in Steel City.
This new company would bring fifty five new permanent high paying jobs, and would also create over 200 construction jobs while being built.
"There are still many components of this project that are not yet completed, which involve grants from State agencies and the Federal government. However, agreement to this bond issue is one of the key components. The company does have alternate sites for consideration in Alabama and in Georgia, but we have a very good chance to be their location of choice", Stanton explained.
In both instances the Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the request.
7/24/08
At the Tuesday evening meeting of the Jackson County Commission, Bill Stanton, Director of the Jackson County Development Council made two formal requests to the Board relating to approval authorization for Industrial Bond Issuance. The County is merely the "pass through" agency for this process, giving legal authorization for the issuance of these bonds if the projects proceed as defined.
In the case of ‘Project Springs" the request is for approval for sale of $10,000,000 in industrial revenue bonds. This project does not involve any tax concessions to the new industry which will modify the Russell Distribution Center at the Marianna Airport Industrial Park in order for the facility to properly house their new state of the art bottling plant. The project will result in $25,000,000 being added to the county property tax rolls, and will initially employ 30 workers, with planned growth to 100 jobs. The project also includes construction of a $75,000 water retention system that will facilitate that area of the industrial park. This project has been underway for almost two years, and is near becoming a reality.
The second request was for an agreement to allow issuance of Industrial Bonds totaling $40,000,000 which would be a component of a total package of incentives that would be offered to a prospective ethanol production plant which would be located just southwest of Campbellton. In this proposal there are no tax concessions being offered, and the capital investment would total over $200,000,000 which would make this company the largest tax payer in the county, and would double the investment of the new Green Circle BioEnergy plant in Steel City.
This new company would bring fifty five new permanent high paying jobs, and would also create over 200 construction jobs while being built.
"There are still many components of this project that are not yet completed, which involve grants from State agencies and the Federal government. However, agreement to this bond issue is one of the key components. The company does have alternate sites for consideration in Alabama and in Georgia, but we have a very good chance to be their location of choice", Stanton explained.
In both instances the Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the request.
Committee of Community Volunteers Asks Commission to Place Consideration of Toll Road on “Hold”
By: Sid Riley
7/24/08
At the stormy community meeting which was held in Cottondale two weeks ago, a large working committee was organized in an attempt to identify what restrictions would be necessary before the possible construction of a north-south toll road through Jackson County might be considered. At the Tuesday evening meeting of the Jackson County Commission, JCDC Director Bill Stanton and this committee along with representatives from Graceville and Campbellton appeared before the Commission to present a request.
They were requesting that the Commissioners give authorization to this group of volunteers to develop a listing of criteria and conditions that should be met before any future consideration would be given to the project. These criteria would address such issues of forbidding use of eminent domain, requirements related to blockage of roads and splitting of properties, revenues, access, and others. Once these criteria have been developed, they would then be presented to the Commissioners for approval as the minimum requirements for the project.
The group asked for four months of allowed time for developing this list of restrictions and requirements. Then this document would be presented to every involved community for approval and would then finally be presented to the County Commission.
There were some in attendance that spoke relating to this approach, stating they did not feel the committee was diverse enough, and that several communities were being left out. Commissioner Spires expressed some concern about the request for restricting the Board from taking any action until the group had completed its task.
Finally, the board agreed to allow the JCDC Board to formulate the committee and the framework for proceeding.
7/24/08
At the stormy community meeting which was held in Cottondale two weeks ago, a large working committee was organized in an attempt to identify what restrictions would be necessary before the possible construction of a north-south toll road through Jackson County might be considered. At the Tuesday evening meeting of the Jackson County Commission, JCDC Director Bill Stanton and this committee along with representatives from Graceville and Campbellton appeared before the Commission to present a request.
They were requesting that the Commissioners give authorization to this group of volunteers to develop a listing of criteria and conditions that should be met before any future consideration would be given to the project. These criteria would address such issues of forbidding use of eminent domain, requirements related to blockage of roads and splitting of properties, revenues, access, and others. Once these criteria have been developed, they would then be presented to the Commissioners for approval as the minimum requirements for the project.
The group asked for four months of allowed time for developing this list of restrictions and requirements. Then this document would be presented to every involved community for approval and would then finally be presented to the County Commission.
There were some in attendance that spoke relating to this approach, stating they did not feel the committee was diverse enough, and that several communities were being left out. Commissioner Spires expressed some concern about the request for restricting the Board from taking any action until the group had completed its task.
Finally, the board agreed to allow the JCDC Board to formulate the committee and the framework for proceeding.
Daun and Christine Crews Celebrate Bond of 56 Years
7/24/08
That July afternoon in 1952, when Daun Crews and pretty little Christine Medlock nervously said "I Do", neither realized the ceremony which took place on their behalf on that wonderful day would launch them into a lifetime of sharing their love as they raised their son Michael and embarked on meaningful careers in Jackson County. Within a few months after they married Daun entered the U.S. Army where he rose to the rank of Sergeant and would subsequently participate in the Korean War.
After his discharge in 1954, he attended Chipola College and then the University of Florida. He then began a fifteen year career as a Milk Production Specialist for Sealtest Foods. He was transferred to Miami and then Jacksonville, but he and Christine wanted to return to "good ole Jackson County." an opening occurred locally and he went to work for the Jackson County School Board. He worked there for twelve years in various capacities including Director of Facilities and Construction. Finally, in 1980 he ran for and was elected Clerk of the Circuit Court, a position he held for three terms.
Daun has also held many appointed and volunteer positions in our area, including the Chipola Board, State CETA Board, The Public Service Employment Committee Chairman, Chairman of Board of Deacons at First Presbyterian Church in Marianna (where he and Christine have been long time members), and many Scouting Awards including the prestigious Silver Beaver Award.
Meanwhile, Christine worked at the Citizens State Bank for twenty- five years. She also was an active part of the Presbyterian Church Choir thirty-nine years. She was raised in Marianna and graduated from Marianna High School in the class of 1947. Besides working at Citizens Bank, Christine is a wonderful mom, a great home maker, and a constant working companion supporting Daun in his political career.
Christine and Daun are now happily retired and enjoying their two grandchildren, Jenie and Kelly. Congratulations for a wonderful marriage to two of our finest citizens.
That July afternoon in 1952, when Daun Crews and pretty little Christine Medlock nervously said "I Do", neither realized the ceremony which took place on their behalf on that wonderful day would launch them into a lifetime of sharing their love as they raised their son Michael and embarked on meaningful careers in Jackson County. Within a few months after they married Daun entered the U.S. Army where he rose to the rank of Sergeant and would subsequently participate in the Korean War.
After his discharge in 1954, he attended Chipola College and then the University of Florida. He then began a fifteen year career as a Milk Production Specialist for Sealtest Foods. He was transferred to Miami and then Jacksonville, but he and Christine wanted to return to "good ole Jackson County." an opening occurred locally and he went to work for the Jackson County School Board. He worked there for twelve years in various capacities including Director of Facilities and Construction. Finally, in 1980 he ran for and was elected Clerk of the Circuit Court, a position he held for three terms.
Daun has also held many appointed and volunteer positions in our area, including the Chipola Board, State CETA Board, The Public Service Employment Committee Chairman, Chairman of Board of Deacons at First Presbyterian Church in Marianna (where he and Christine have been long time members), and many Scouting Awards including the prestigious Silver Beaver Award.
Meanwhile, Christine worked at the Citizens State Bank for twenty- five years. She also was an active part of the Presbyterian Church Choir thirty-nine years. She was raised in Marianna and graduated from Marianna High School in the class of 1947. Besides working at Citizens Bank, Christine is a wonderful mom, a great home maker, and a constant working companion supporting Daun in his political career.
Christine and Daun are now happily retired and enjoying their two grandchildren, Jenie and Kelly. Congratulations for a wonderful marriage to two of our finest citizens.
Jackson County Commissioners Accept National "Excellence In Economic Development" Award On Behalf of Jackson County Development Council
7/24/08
By Sid Riley
On Monday at the Agricultural Center, one of the Bush Administration officials, Ms. Kelly O’Brien, the Economic Development Administration Director of Public Affairs, and Florida Congressman Allen Boyd, presented a very special award to Jackson County, the Jackson County Development Council, and its Director, Bill Stanton. The award was accepted by Commissioner Chuck Lockey, who is Chairman of the Board of Commissioners, and James Elmore, who is Chairman of the JCDC Board of Directors.
Also in attendance were Congressman Heath Shuler of North Carolina, State Congresswoman Marti Coley, and representatives from most of the agencies and organizations that were involved in the Green Circle project.
Through the unique approaches that were conceived and developed by Mr. Stanton that resulted in the successful creation of the Green Circle BioEnergy pellet plant in Jackson County, the local organization has become nationally recognized.
Each year the most significant economic development projects across the nation are evaluated, and awards given to the most deserving. The local project was deemed to be the best "Rural Economic Development Project" in the nation for 2007. Mr. Stanton gave recognition to the community "team" that was formed to make the project happen. "It took the coordinated efforts of a lot of dedicated people who contributed their time and skills in order to create the combined package that eventually led to this plant choosing Jackson County", Stanton stated. "Everyone involved should share in this recognition".
The Green Circle BioEnergy plant is the largest wood pellet plant in the world. The $112,000,000 in capital investment made to construct this plant is one of the largest industrial capital investments ever made by private industry in Northwest Florida. The presence of the plant in Jackson County will benefit all of the county taxpayers, with an even more significant impact in the Alford and Cottondale communities. It is appropriate that the first boatload of locally produced pellets left the Panama City Port for Europe this week.
By Sid Riley
On Monday at the Agricultural Center, one of the Bush Administration officials, Ms. Kelly O’Brien, the Economic Development Administration Director of Public Affairs, and Florida Congressman Allen Boyd, presented a very special award to Jackson County, the Jackson County Development Council, and its Director, Bill Stanton. The award was accepted by Commissioner Chuck Lockey, who is Chairman of the Board of Commissioners, and James Elmore, who is Chairman of the JCDC Board of Directors.
Also in attendance were Congressman Heath Shuler of North Carolina, State Congresswoman Marti Coley, and representatives from most of the agencies and organizations that were involved in the Green Circle project.
Through the unique approaches that were conceived and developed by Mr. Stanton that resulted in the successful creation of the Green Circle BioEnergy pellet plant in Jackson County, the local organization has become nationally recognized.
Each year the most significant economic development projects across the nation are evaluated, and awards given to the most deserving. The local project was deemed to be the best "Rural Economic Development Project" in the nation for 2007. Mr. Stanton gave recognition to the community "team" that was formed to make the project happen. "It took the coordinated efforts of a lot of dedicated people who contributed their time and skills in order to create the combined package that eventually led to this plant choosing Jackson County", Stanton stated. "Everyone involved should share in this recognition".
The Green Circle BioEnergy plant is the largest wood pellet plant in the world. The $112,000,000 in capital investment made to construct this plant is one of the largest industrial capital investments ever made by private industry in Northwest Florida. The presence of the plant in Jackson County will benefit all of the county taxpayers, with an even more significant impact in the Alford and Cottondale communities. It is appropriate that the first boatload of locally produced pellets left the Panama City Port for Europe this week.
Meet Your Congressman, Allen Boyd
7/24/08
Family Information:
Congressman Allen Boyd is a fifth generation Florida farmer and continues to oversee his family farm operations, tilling the same land as his great-great grandfather. Congressman Boyd’s parents were Fred and Elizabeth Boyd, both deceased. Fred Boyd ran the family farm, and Elizabeth Boyd was an elementary school teacher. For 38 years, Congressman Boyd has been married to Cissy Boyd, and they have three adult children, all Florida residents.
Education:
Congressman Boyd graduated from Florida State University in 1969 with a B.S. in accounting.
Military Service:
From 1970 – 1971, Congressman Boyd served as a rifle platoon leader for the 101st Airborne Division in Vietnam. For his service, Congressman received the Bronze Star, Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and the Combat Infantryman Badge.
Political History:
♦ From 1989 – 1996, Congressman Boyd served in the Florida House of Representatives and was the Chairman of the Florida House Democratic Conservative Caucus.
♦ In 1996, Congressman Boyd was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Florida’s 2nd Congressional District. He is currently serving his sixth term.
§ In Congress, Congressman Boyd is a member of the House Appropriations Committee where he works to ensure fairness in funding to North Florida’s priorities. Boyd also serves on the Defense Subcommittee, the Military Construction-Veterans Affairs Subcommittee, and the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Subcommittee of the House Appropriations Committee.
§ A leading voice on fiscal responsibility in the House of Representatives, Boyd also serves on the House Budget Committee.
In the House of Representatives, he is a leader of Congress’ Blue Dog Coalition, a group of 49 Democratic members who advocate fiscal responsibility in the federal budgeting process. The Blue Dogs are centrist legislators working to forge middle of the road, bipartisan answers to the current challenges facing the country.
Throughout his career in public service, Congressman Boyd has worked on both sides of the political aisle to get things done for the people of North Florida. Through his work on the House Appropriations Committee, he has brought home millions of dollars for North Florida’s priorities.
As a veteran of Vietnam, Congressman Boyd has been an advocate for improved veterans’ benefits and healthcare. He was instrumental in the recent passage of a new GI Bill for veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. The new GI Bill restores the promise of a full, four-year college education for our veterans.
Congressman Boyd also was a strong proponent of the new Veterans’ Clinic in Marianna. By working closely with the Veterans Administration (VA), he was also able to encourage the VA to move forward with the plans for the new clinic so that the veterans of North Florida can have better access to healthcare. With over 75,000 veterans in Florida’s 2nd Congressional District, this new veterans’ clinic really is an extraordinary victory for our veterans.
Congressman Boyd is a fifth generation farmer and knows firsthand the challenges facing farmers in North Florida. In Congress, he has played a significant role in developing modern agricultural policy for our farmers. Last month, Congress passed a new Farm Bill that provides historic support for the agriculture needs of Florida, including an agriculture safety net for the family farmer, disaster assistance, and conservation funding. Boyd proclaims, "Our country cannot continue to be the strongest country in the world if we are dependent on foreign countries for food and energy. Maintaining a healthy agriculture industry and encouraging energy independence should be both economic and national security priorities."
While progress has been made, much more work needs to be done, specifically the federal government must address our nation’s long term fiscal problems, work to combat high gas prices, and develop a comprehensive energy plan that will make our nation energy independent. Congressman Boyd is leading the fight in Congress for responsible domestic oil and gas exploration and stresses the need for a balanced energy solution.
"I went to Congress for the same reasons I went to Vietnam - to fight for what we know is right. If we put politics aside, roll up our sleeves and work together, there’s nothing we can’t do," Boyd continued. "I believe in the strength of this community, so I am hopeful about the future, but we have to keep working together as Americans, not as Republicans or Democrats. If we do that, we can solve the serious challenges facing our country."
Family Information:
Congressman Allen Boyd is a fifth generation Florida farmer and continues to oversee his family farm operations, tilling the same land as his great-great grandfather. Congressman Boyd’s parents were Fred and Elizabeth Boyd, both deceased. Fred Boyd ran the family farm, and Elizabeth Boyd was an elementary school teacher. For 38 years, Congressman Boyd has been married to Cissy Boyd, and they have three adult children, all Florida residents.
Education:
Congressman Boyd graduated from Florida State University in 1969 with a B.S. in accounting.
Military Service:
From 1970 – 1971, Congressman Boyd served as a rifle platoon leader for the 101st Airborne Division in Vietnam. For his service, Congressman received the Bronze Star, Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and the Combat Infantryman Badge.
Political History:
♦ From 1989 – 1996, Congressman Boyd served in the Florida House of Representatives and was the Chairman of the Florida House Democratic Conservative Caucus.
♦ In 1996, Congressman Boyd was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Florida’s 2nd Congressional District. He is currently serving his sixth term.
§ In Congress, Congressman Boyd is a member of the House Appropriations Committee where he works to ensure fairness in funding to North Florida’s priorities. Boyd also serves on the Defense Subcommittee, the Military Construction-Veterans Affairs Subcommittee, and the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Subcommittee of the House Appropriations Committee.
§ A leading voice on fiscal responsibility in the House of Representatives, Boyd also serves on the House Budget Committee.
In the House of Representatives, he is a leader of Congress’ Blue Dog Coalition, a group of 49 Democratic members who advocate fiscal responsibility in the federal budgeting process. The Blue Dogs are centrist legislators working to forge middle of the road, bipartisan answers to the current challenges facing the country.
Throughout his career in public service, Congressman Boyd has worked on both sides of the political aisle to get things done for the people of North Florida. Through his work on the House Appropriations Committee, he has brought home millions of dollars for North Florida’s priorities.
As a veteran of Vietnam, Congressman Boyd has been an advocate for improved veterans’ benefits and healthcare. He was instrumental in the recent passage of a new GI Bill for veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. The new GI Bill restores the promise of a full, four-year college education for our veterans.
Congressman Boyd also was a strong proponent of the new Veterans’ Clinic in Marianna. By working closely with the Veterans Administration (VA), he was also able to encourage the VA to move forward with the plans for the new clinic so that the veterans of North Florida can have better access to healthcare. With over 75,000 veterans in Florida’s 2nd Congressional District, this new veterans’ clinic really is an extraordinary victory for our veterans.
Congressman Boyd is a fifth generation farmer and knows firsthand the challenges facing farmers in North Florida. In Congress, he has played a significant role in developing modern agricultural policy for our farmers. Last month, Congress passed a new Farm Bill that provides historic support for the agriculture needs of Florida, including an agriculture safety net for the family farmer, disaster assistance, and conservation funding. Boyd proclaims, "Our country cannot continue to be the strongest country in the world if we are dependent on foreign countries for food and energy. Maintaining a healthy agriculture industry and encouraging energy independence should be both economic and national security priorities."
While progress has been made, much more work needs to be done, specifically the federal government must address our nation’s long term fiscal problems, work to combat high gas prices, and develop a comprehensive energy plan that will make our nation energy independent. Congressman Boyd is leading the fight in Congress for responsible domestic oil and gas exploration and stresses the need for a balanced energy solution.
"I went to Congress for the same reasons I went to Vietnam - to fight for what we know is right. If we put politics aside, roll up our sleeves and work together, there’s nothing we can’t do," Boyd continued. "I believe in the strength of this community, so I am hopeful about the future, but we have to keep working together as Americans, not as Republicans or Democrats. If we do that, we can solve the serious challenges facing our country."
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
History of Alford Community Organization
7/17/08
Contributed By: Peggy Yon Mills, ACO President
In realizing a need for revitalization of our town, its spirit and pride, I invited concerned and committed citizens to band together to form Alford Beautification Organization. Seven-teen people met at Alford Community Center January 23, 2007 for our first meeting. We changed our name to Alford Community Council March 5th, however, Alford Town’s Council rejected our name March 6th. We changed to Alford Community Organization (ACO) April 16th by member votes. We chose to work with Alford Town Council in place of applying for a Charter. We are a non-profit organization.
ACO’s main goal is to enhance and beautify the Town of Alford while making it a safe, friendly and family oriented place to live. Additional goals are: plant trees and flowers, secure new city limit signs with a town slogan, and provide a yard of the month sign. ACO will back The Town of Alford in getting property owners to clean up overgrown property, do away with non-tagged vehicles, useless junk, keep streets free of litter, and help in the purchase of new Christmas Decorations so Alford will sparkle brightly during the upcoming Christmas Season and throughout the year.
Meetings are the 3rd Monday of each month and members pay $10 yearly dues. We seek members from The Town of Alford and surrounding Communities to join our organization. Please contact Alford Community Organization officers: Peggy Y. Mills, President (850-579-4482), J.W. Dilmore, Vice-President (579-4871), Faye Melvin, Secretary (579-4310), or Charlene Smith, Treasurer (579-0199) for additional information.
Help is desperately needed to improve our town. When people visit in Alford, they take notice of the overall appearance of the different properties. Our goal is for people to view well groomed yards free of junk, overgrown weeds/brush, and garbage. A majority of Citizens of Alford and the joining Communities take pride in our homes and strive to keep our property clean. However, this must be everyone’s goal. All renters and property owners must embrace this goal.
Alford has the potential of becoming a quaint, beautiful town. Alford can and must change so people will desire to buy property and build homes in our town and Communities. Pride in one’s community will help foster a desire to volunteer to work in CIVIC ORGANIZATIONS thus ensuring continuing and steady progress in our town and surrounding areas.
Contributed By: Peggy Yon Mills, ACO President
In realizing a need for revitalization of our town, its spirit and pride, I invited concerned and committed citizens to band together to form Alford Beautification Organization. Seven-teen people met at Alford Community Center January 23, 2007 for our first meeting. We changed our name to Alford Community Council March 5th, however, Alford Town’s Council rejected our name March 6th. We changed to Alford Community Organization (ACO) April 16th by member votes. We chose to work with Alford Town Council in place of applying for a Charter. We are a non-profit organization.
ACO’s main goal is to enhance and beautify the Town of Alford while making it a safe, friendly and family oriented place to live. Additional goals are: plant trees and flowers, secure new city limit signs with a town slogan, and provide a yard of the month sign. ACO will back The Town of Alford in getting property owners to clean up overgrown property, do away with non-tagged vehicles, useless junk, keep streets free of litter, and help in the purchase of new Christmas Decorations so Alford will sparkle brightly during the upcoming Christmas Season and throughout the year.
Meetings are the 3rd Monday of each month and members pay $10 yearly dues. We seek members from The Town of Alford and surrounding Communities to join our organization. Please contact Alford Community Organization officers: Peggy Y. Mills, President (850-579-4482), J.W. Dilmore, Vice-President (579-4871), Faye Melvin, Secretary (579-4310), or Charlene Smith, Treasurer (579-0199) for additional information.
Help is desperately needed to improve our town. When people visit in Alford, they take notice of the overall appearance of the different properties. Our goal is for people to view well groomed yards free of junk, overgrown weeds/brush, and garbage. A majority of Citizens of Alford and the joining Communities take pride in our homes and strive to keep our property clean. However, this must be everyone’s goal. All renters and property owners must embrace this goal.
Alford has the potential of becoming a quaint, beautiful town. Alford can and must change so people will desire to buy property and build homes in our town and Communities. Pride in one’s community will help foster a desire to volunteer to work in CIVIC ORGANIZATIONS thus ensuring continuing and steady progress in our town and surrounding areas.
New Tyndall Federal Credit Union Bank Is Ready To Open
7/17/08
At press time for the Jackson County Times workmen are busy putting the final touches on the new 3,000 sq. ft. full service bank which will hold its Grand Opening Celebration from 9:00 until 1:00 this Saturday. The bank is located at the new Westside Plaza near Wal-Mart Supercenter.
Prizes, drawings, gifts, refreshments, and entertainment will all be part of the celebration this Saturday. The official ribbon cutting will occur at 9:00 AM. The public is welcome.
In order to join the Tyndall Federal Credit Union all that it required for eligibility is living, worshipping, or working in Jackson County. Branch hours will be from 8:30 AM until 5:00 PM, and drive through services on Saturdays from 9:00 AM until 12:00 PM.
In our discussion with Mrs. Patsy Parker, of Blountstown, who is the Branch Manager, we learned that the building construction only took ninety days, once what seemed to be a lengthy permitting approval process. The bank has been operating in the strip mall near Firehouse Subs since 2001. With this expansion the bank has increased its employment level from six to twelve.
We welcome this new bank to our community.
At press time for the Jackson County Times workmen are busy putting the final touches on the new 3,000 sq. ft. full service bank which will hold its Grand Opening Celebration from 9:00 until 1:00 this Saturday. The bank is located at the new Westside Plaza near Wal-Mart Supercenter.
Prizes, drawings, gifts, refreshments, and entertainment will all be part of the celebration this Saturday. The official ribbon cutting will occur at 9:00 AM. The public is welcome.
In order to join the Tyndall Federal Credit Union all that it required for eligibility is living, worshipping, or working in Jackson County. Branch hours will be from 8:30 AM until 5:00 PM, and drive through services on Saturdays from 9:00 AM until 12:00 PM.
In our discussion with Mrs. Patsy Parker, of Blountstown, who is the Branch Manager, we learned that the building construction only took ninety days, once what seemed to be a lengthy permitting approval process. The bank has been operating in the strip mall near Firehouse Subs since 2001. With this expansion the bank has increased its employment level from six to twelve.
We welcome this new bank to our community.
Letters to the Editor 7/17/08
Dear Editor
Your recent article about electricity charges interested me. I got out last year’s bill for this time and compared it to this year’s bill. Last year’s service period was from 05/29 to 06/28 and this year’s was from 05/29 to 06/30.
The figures I used in my calculations are:
2007 2008
Customer Charge 10.00 12.00
Base Energy per KWH 0.01433 0.02025
Fuel Adjustment per KWH 0.04420 0.07610
These three add up to the Electric Service Amount
This was: $113.01 $184.93
Kwh used 1760 1720
To get the cost per KWH, I subtracted the customer charge from the Electric Sevice Amount, and divided the result by the number of KWH used. For 2007 this came out to 0.05853 (rounded off). For 2008 I got 0.10054. To calculate the increase I divided the 2008 figure by the 2007 figure and got 1.71775 times more per KWH in 2008. That is a 71.775% increase.
Interestingly, their figures for cost per KWH add up to 0.09635, which is a little less than my figures showed.
I have the statements if you would like to check them for yourself to avoid being accused of printing "false figures"
These figures do not include the Florida Gross Receipts Tax and the Jackson County Franchise Fee.
I expect you to check the calculations for accuracy.
Earl Mayhall Marianna, FL
To the Editor:
With reference to Dr. Cook’s article about cavities and how he depicts proper care, citing 3 ways, using an anology of a 3-legend stool. (A 3-legged stool is rarely seen in furniture design.)
He forgot a fourth leg--"aged fillings". This is the biggest culprit for patients over 50 years of age.
Once aged, fissures develop and often are not picked up by the x-ray. An abess results. The tooth gets extracted. I’ve seen this happen time and again.
With our deligent care, we place our teeth in the hands of a dentist. He has obligation to suggest this "4th leg" process. This is never done. I implore all dentist to make this happen. Then and only then will our teeth be cared for properly by the dentist.
Joanne-Marie DeWeese
Certified Teacher & Nutritionist
Dear Editor:
Dewey, my husband died in January 15, 2005 and I had to retire due to health problems four months later, May 15, 2005. So you can see these last two years have been difficult for me. My family, friends, church family, and Scarlet & Red Hat Society have been there to encourage me or just listen.
However, being a very active person in the past, I made the decision become more active in my community. As 2006 was winding down and the anniversary of Dewey’s death loomed on the horizon I kept remembering how Dewey would say "I’m so glad to be home" when we reached the Alford City Limit sign after returning form trips. This was especially true on his many, many return trips from the hospital. I know our citizens feel this same relief as they enter Alford, so I decided to talk to people and have my ideas presented to Alford Town Council concerning ways we can enrich our town.
Mayor George Gay, the Town Council, and Sylvester Tharp, town clerk, are striving to move our town in a new direction. They listen to the citizens, are willing to make changes, and volunteer their time freely. With their encouragement and the volunteer efforts of others we know we can make a difference in The Town of Alford. This is the reason we decided to create "Alford Beautification Organization". This organization will formulate goals, create fundraising, volunteer time, etc. to help improve our town.
I have included a copy of the invitation, additional goals, and names of some people for you to call so they can comment about how excited we are about this project. See column on the left.
Submitted by:
Peggy Mills
Retired Jackson County Teacher & Citizen of Alford
Your recent article about electricity charges interested me. I got out last year’s bill for this time and compared it to this year’s bill. Last year’s service period was from 05/29 to 06/28 and this year’s was from 05/29 to 06/30.
The figures I used in my calculations are:
2007 2008
Customer Charge 10.00 12.00
Base Energy per KWH 0.01433 0.02025
Fuel Adjustment per KWH 0.04420 0.07610
These three add up to the Electric Service Amount
This was: $113.01 $184.93
Kwh used 1760 1720
To get the cost per KWH, I subtracted the customer charge from the Electric Sevice Amount, and divided the result by the number of KWH used. For 2007 this came out to 0.05853 (rounded off). For 2008 I got 0.10054. To calculate the increase I divided the 2008 figure by the 2007 figure and got 1.71775 times more per KWH in 2008. That is a 71.775% increase.
Interestingly, their figures for cost per KWH add up to 0.09635, which is a little less than my figures showed.
I have the statements if you would like to check them for yourself to avoid being accused of printing "false figures"
These figures do not include the Florida Gross Receipts Tax and the Jackson County Franchise Fee.
I expect you to check the calculations for accuracy.
Earl Mayhall Marianna, FL
To the Editor:
With reference to Dr. Cook’s article about cavities and how he depicts proper care, citing 3 ways, using an anology of a 3-legend stool. (A 3-legged stool is rarely seen in furniture design.)
He forgot a fourth leg--"aged fillings". This is the biggest culprit for patients over 50 years of age.
Once aged, fissures develop and often are not picked up by the x-ray. An abess results. The tooth gets extracted. I’ve seen this happen time and again.
With our deligent care, we place our teeth in the hands of a dentist. He has obligation to suggest this "4th leg" process. This is never done. I implore all dentist to make this happen. Then and only then will our teeth be cared for properly by the dentist.
Joanne-Marie DeWeese
Certified Teacher & Nutritionist
Dear Editor:
Dewey, my husband died in January 15, 2005 and I had to retire due to health problems four months later, May 15, 2005. So you can see these last two years have been difficult for me. My family, friends, church family, and Scarlet & Red Hat Society have been there to encourage me or just listen.
However, being a very active person in the past, I made the decision become more active in my community. As 2006 was winding down and the anniversary of Dewey’s death loomed on the horizon I kept remembering how Dewey would say "I’m so glad to be home" when we reached the Alford City Limit sign after returning form trips. This was especially true on his many, many return trips from the hospital. I know our citizens feel this same relief as they enter Alford, so I decided to talk to people and have my ideas presented to Alford Town Council concerning ways we can enrich our town.
Mayor George Gay, the Town Council, and Sylvester Tharp, town clerk, are striving to move our town in a new direction. They listen to the citizens, are willing to make changes, and volunteer their time freely. With their encouragement and the volunteer efforts of others we know we can make a difference in The Town of Alford. This is the reason we decided to create "Alford Beautification Organization". This organization will formulate goals, create fundraising, volunteer time, etc. to help improve our town.
I have included a copy of the invitation, additional goals, and names of some people for you to call so they can comment about how excited we are about this project. See column on the left.
Submitted by:
Peggy Mills
Retired Jackson County Teacher & Citizen of Alford
Rotary News 7/17/08
At Wednesday’s noon meeting of the Marianna Rotary Club, held at Jim’s Buffet and Grill, County Health Administrator, William Long was the featured program speaker. He told the attendees the history of how the funding of the new Health Center facility was developed, the plans for starting construction, and provided pictures of the new building overlaid onto the site.
The funding came after years of requests, going back into the term of the previous administrator, Jimmy Rigsby. Initial funding of $300,000 was obtained years ago through the efforts of Representative David Coley. This was used for facility plans and architectural drawings. Year after year the funding was denied, and the plans were put aside. Then, during a period of extreme budget cuts throughout the state systems, funding was suddenly made available.
The first step of the $11 million project will be demolition of the Sykes building. The only part of that previous facility that will be retained is the property, landscaping, water retention ponds, and parking areas. This is valued at approximately $1.5 million in savings. It is hoped that construction will begin in September, with a 9 to 10 month construction period.
The funding came after years of requests, going back into the term of the previous administrator, Jimmy Rigsby. Initial funding of $300,000 was obtained years ago through the efforts of Representative David Coley. This was used for facility plans and architectural drawings. Year after year the funding was denied, and the plans were put aside. Then, during a period of extreme budget cuts throughout the state systems, funding was suddenly made available.
The first step of the $11 million project will be demolition of the Sykes building. The only part of that previous facility that will be retained is the property, landscaping, water retention ponds, and parking areas. This is valued at approximately $1.5 million in savings. It is hoped that construction will begin in September, with a 9 to 10 month construction period.
DAR Announces Essay Contest Topics
7/17/08
Local students will vie for over $500 in prizes to be given in December to winners of the DAR American History Essay Contest (for grades 5-8) and the Christopher Columbus Essay Contest (for grades 9-12.) Chipola Chapter, NSDAR sponsors both contests. The deadline to enter is November 15, 2008. Research should begin as soon as possible as a complete bibliography of sources is required and considered by the judges.
The topic for the DAR American History Essay is "The Ideals of the Gettysburg Address." The essay must consider the following, "What message did the Gettysburg Address communicate to our war-torn nation in 1863? How are the ideals articulated in the speech still relevant for our country today?" The length of the essay for fifth graders is 300 to 600 words and students in grades 6-8 must write 600 to 1,000 words.
The topic for the Christopher Columbus Essay Contest is "Five Perils That Challenged Christopher Columbus." The essay must consider the following, "Discuss five perils faced by Christopher Columbus’ expedition(s) and how Columbus and his crews overcame them. These may be natural perils or perils brought on by the task of leading an expedition of several ships and crew members through uncharted waters. Which of these same perils continue to threaten ships and how have advances in technology changed the way sailors cope with these challenges today?" This essay may not be more than 750 words.
For additional information and complete guidelines please contact DAR American History Chairman Mary Robbins at snoopyxii60@hotmail.com or (850) 209-4066.
Local students will vie for over $500 in prizes to be given in December to winners of the DAR American History Essay Contest (for grades 5-8) and the Christopher Columbus Essay Contest (for grades 9-12.) Chipola Chapter, NSDAR sponsors both contests. The deadline to enter is November 15, 2008. Research should begin as soon as possible as a complete bibliography of sources is required and considered by the judges.
The topic for the DAR American History Essay is "The Ideals of the Gettysburg Address." The essay must consider the following, "What message did the Gettysburg Address communicate to our war-torn nation in 1863? How are the ideals articulated in the speech still relevant for our country today?" The length of the essay for fifth graders is 300 to 600 words and students in grades 6-8 must write 600 to 1,000 words.
The topic for the Christopher Columbus Essay Contest is "Five Perils That Challenged Christopher Columbus." The essay must consider the following, "Discuss five perils faced by Christopher Columbus’ expedition(s) and how Columbus and his crews overcame them. These may be natural perils or perils brought on by the task of leading an expedition of several ships and crew members through uncharted waters. Which of these same perils continue to threaten ships and how have advances in technology changed the way sailors cope with these challenges today?" This essay may not be more than 750 words.
For additional information and complete guidelines please contact DAR American History Chairman Mary Robbins at snoopyxii60@hotmail.com or (850) 209-4066.
Early Registration Dates Set for Chipola’s Bachelor’s Programs
7/17/08
Chipola College will hold a special early registration Aug. 6 and 7 for the college’s Bachelor’s Degree programs. In order to register, students must be admitted to one of Chipola’s bachelor’s degrees programs in Math and Science Education, Elementary Education, Exceptional Student Education, BS in Nursing or Business. Students in the Critical Teacher Shortage areas of Mathematics Education, Science Education and Exceptional Student Education who qualify may receive tuition scholarships through the Beall Fund.
Students applying to the RN to BS in Nursing program must be licensed Registered Nurses (RN’s). Regular Fall registration for all college programs is set for Aug. 18-20. Chipola is accredited by Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. To learn more about Chipola’s bachelor’s degree programs, call 718-2492 or visit www.chipola.edu
Chipola College will hold a special early registration Aug. 6 and 7 for the college’s Bachelor’s Degree programs. In order to register, students must be admitted to one of Chipola’s bachelor’s degrees programs in Math and Science Education, Elementary Education, Exceptional Student Education, BS in Nursing or Business. Students in the Critical Teacher Shortage areas of Mathematics Education, Science Education and Exceptional Student Education who qualify may receive tuition scholarships through the Beall Fund.
Students applying to the RN to BS in Nursing program must be licensed Registered Nurses (RN’s). Regular Fall registration for all college programs is set for Aug. 18-20. Chipola is accredited by Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. To learn more about Chipola’s bachelor’s degree programs, call 718-2492 or visit www.chipola.edu
Chipola Prof. Attends Hemingway Conference
7/17/08
Dr. Mark Ebel, Professor of Spanish at Chipola College, attended the 13th International Hemingway Society Conference in Kansas City, Missouri in June. Dr. Ebel became interested in Hemingway through the influence of his Ph.D. dissertation advisor, Dr. Ernest Rehder who persuaded Ebel to prepare a paper on Hemingway and present it at a 2004 Conference in Key West. Dr. Ebel presented his paper, "Hemingway’s Philosophy of Fishing," and served on a panel on "Hemingway and the Sporting Life," which discussed Hemingway’s writings on hunting, fishing and bullfighting.
Ebel was so impressed with the quality of papers given and the writers, professors and scholars in attendance that he has continued to write and do research on Hemingway. In 2006 Dr. Ebel traveled to Malaga and Ronda in Spain for the Society’s Conference, and then participated in a post-conference tour to the Running of the Bulls Festival in Pamplona, an event made popular by Hemingway in his novel, The Sun Also Rises. Upon his return, Dr. Ebel gave a pair of presentations on "Answering Hemingway’s Call to Adventure," to the Chipola faculty and again to the community at large.
The society holds biennial meetings to discuss the literature of Ernest Hemingway. Composed mainly of college and university professors, independent scholars and Hemingway aficionados, and representing the United States and at least eight foreign countries, the group gathers in places where Hemingway once lived and wrote.
Following his graduation from high school in Oak Park, Illinois, Hemingway began his writing career as a reporter for the Kansas City Star, where he worked until joining the ambulance corps at the Italian Front during World War I.
Members of the Hemingway family regularly attend the Society’s meetings. Dr. Ebel had a chance to meet John Hemingway, great-grandson of Ernest Hemingway. He lives in Montreal and has recently written a book on his family called Strange Tribe.
Dr. Mark Ebel, Professor of Spanish at Chipola College, attended the 13th International Hemingway Society Conference in Kansas City, Missouri in June. Dr. Ebel became interested in Hemingway through the influence of his Ph.D. dissertation advisor, Dr. Ernest Rehder who persuaded Ebel to prepare a paper on Hemingway and present it at a 2004 Conference in Key West. Dr. Ebel presented his paper, "Hemingway’s Philosophy of Fishing," and served on a panel on "Hemingway and the Sporting Life," which discussed Hemingway’s writings on hunting, fishing and bullfighting.
Ebel was so impressed with the quality of papers given and the writers, professors and scholars in attendance that he has continued to write and do research on Hemingway. In 2006 Dr. Ebel traveled to Malaga and Ronda in Spain for the Society’s Conference, and then participated in a post-conference tour to the Running of the Bulls Festival in Pamplona, an event made popular by Hemingway in his novel, The Sun Also Rises. Upon his return, Dr. Ebel gave a pair of presentations on "Answering Hemingway’s Call to Adventure," to the Chipola faculty and again to the community at large.
The society holds biennial meetings to discuss the literature of Ernest Hemingway. Composed mainly of college and university professors, independent scholars and Hemingway aficionados, and representing the United States and at least eight foreign countries, the group gathers in places where Hemingway once lived and wrote.
Following his graduation from high school in Oak Park, Illinois, Hemingway began his writing career as a reporter for the Kansas City Star, where he worked until joining the ambulance corps at the Italian Front during World War I.
Members of the Hemingway family regularly attend the Society’s meetings. Dr. Ebel had a chance to meet John Hemingway, great-grandson of Ernest Hemingway. He lives in Montreal and has recently written a book on his family called Strange Tribe.
Focus Credit Union Averts Attempted Robbery
7/17/08
Quick thinking and a lot of bravery demonstrated by a FOCUS Credit Union employee prevented the robbery attempt by Grand Ridge resident, Bryndyn Neel, from being successful. The female employee was the last to leave the bank that day, had already secured the facility and was in the parking lot about to enter her vehicle when Neel approached her from the wooded area near the lot. He was carrying a shotgun, and demanded that she unlock the building.
After some discussion she convinced the shotgun bearing robber that she had to telephone another employee in order to get a second key in order to reenter the building. He finally told her to "go ahead and call another employee and have them come out here". Instead of calling another employee, she called 911, and cleverly disclosed to the operator that she was at FOCUS and was being robbed. Within minutes a covey of officers from the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department and various agencies were at the scene.
Hearing the approaching sirens, the would-be thief fled into the woods behind the bank, leaving his automobile parked nearby. Officers from the Fish and Wildlife Commission, the Sheriff’s department helicopter, the Highway Patrol, the ACI K-9 Unit, and many deputies and officers searched the area and surrounded the Mill Pond which is located nearby. About an hour later the suspect was captured as he exited a swampy area, wet and dirty. He was arrested and charges of Attempted Armed Robbery, and False Imprisonment were filed against him.
It took a lot of bravery and quick thinking to summon the police while facing the barrel of a shotgun. We salute this lady for her actions.
Quick thinking and a lot of bravery demonstrated by a FOCUS Credit Union employee prevented the robbery attempt by Grand Ridge resident, Bryndyn Neel, from being successful. The female employee was the last to leave the bank that day, had already secured the facility and was in the parking lot about to enter her vehicle when Neel approached her from the wooded area near the lot. He was carrying a shotgun, and demanded that she unlock the building.
After some discussion she convinced the shotgun bearing robber that she had to telephone another employee in order to get a second key in order to reenter the building. He finally told her to "go ahead and call another employee and have them come out here". Instead of calling another employee, she called 911, and cleverly disclosed to the operator that she was at FOCUS and was being robbed. Within minutes a covey of officers from the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department and various agencies were at the scene.
Hearing the approaching sirens, the would-be thief fled into the woods behind the bank, leaving his automobile parked nearby. Officers from the Fish and Wildlife Commission, the Sheriff’s department helicopter, the Highway Patrol, the ACI K-9 Unit, and many deputies and officers searched the area and surrounded the Mill Pond which is located nearby. About an hour later the suspect was captured as he exited a swampy area, wet and dirty. He was arrested and charges of Attempted Armed Robbery, and False Imprisonment were filed against him.
It took a lot of bravery and quick thinking to summon the police while facing the barrel of a shotgun. We salute this lady for her actions.
Sheriff Saving Gas But Leaving The Lights On For You
7/17/08
This Monday the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department began working extended hours Monday-Thursday, and closing the administrative offices and investigation processes on Fridays. The new hours are from 7:30 AM until 5:30 PM, with only the Communications Center remaining open as always on a continuous basis.
The Duty Officer who takes case reports from the public will no longer be on duty at the headquarters, and is being reassigned to patrol duties. In order to file a case report the public should call 482-9648 and make a request to be contacted by an officer.
Sheriff McDaniel has also restructured the Patrol Division in order to reduce gasoline usage while covering the required areas.
This Monday the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department began working extended hours Monday-Thursday, and closing the administrative offices and investigation processes on Fridays. The new hours are from 7:30 AM until 5:30 PM, with only the Communications Center remaining open as always on a continuous basis.
The Duty Officer who takes case reports from the public will no longer be on duty at the headquarters, and is being reassigned to patrol duties. In order to file a case report the public should call 482-9648 and make a request to be contacted by an officer.
Sheriff McDaniel has also restructured the Patrol Division in order to reduce gasoline usage while covering the required areas.
Junior Shade Tree Chefs Award
7/17/08
Junior Shade Tree Chefs awarded this awesome 4’x6’ Superior Grill to local Arts Festival’s BBQ competitor, Mike Calhoun on Wednesday, July 2 2008. Joshua S. Christian Ministries, lead by local educator John M. Wynn, used this grill as a fund raiser and to promote awareness of its efforts in teaching underachieving, disadbantaged kids Business Education and Entrepreneurship. This effort stems from research indicating significant grade increases, by students, when Business Education and Entrepreneurship is successfully taught together. The organization is structuring itself to teach entrepreurship through different modules. This module, named "Junior Shade Tree Chefs." is designed to teach catering through 100% wood cooked barbeque. Through the help of their mentor Robert Worsley, an award winning, national bbq competitor, the kids will learn how to bbq and cater by using award winning Butt Rub seasoning and Award winning Ole Ray’s sauces. In addition, students will learn money management, marketing, pricing, etc. and must demonstrate what they learn by catering to our local community servants. During this promotion, Marianna City Hall, Jackson COunty School Board, Department of Juvenile Justice, Marianna Fire Department, Marianna Police Department, Jackson County Sheriff Department, U.S. Post Office and others, has or will receive a bbq catered lunch, free of charge, as a foreshadowing of what the program is designed to provide.
Junior Shade Tree Chefs awarded this awesome 4’x6’ Superior Grill to local Arts Festival’s BBQ competitor, Mike Calhoun on Wednesday, July 2 2008. Joshua S. Christian Ministries, lead by local educator John M. Wynn, used this grill as a fund raiser and to promote awareness of its efforts in teaching underachieving, disadbantaged kids Business Education and Entrepreneurship. This effort stems from research indicating significant grade increases, by students, when Business Education and Entrepreneurship is successfully taught together. The organization is structuring itself to teach entrepreurship through different modules. This module, named "Junior Shade Tree Chefs." is designed to teach catering through 100% wood cooked barbeque. Through the help of their mentor Robert Worsley, an award winning, national bbq competitor, the kids will learn how to bbq and cater by using award winning Butt Rub seasoning and Award winning Ole Ray’s sauces. In addition, students will learn money management, marketing, pricing, etc. and must demonstrate what they learn by catering to our local community servants. During this promotion, Marianna City Hall, Jackson COunty School Board, Department of Juvenile Justice, Marianna Fire Department, Marianna Police Department, Jackson County Sheriff Department, U.S. Post Office and others, has or will receive a bbq catered lunch, free of charge, as a foreshadowing of what the program is designed to provide.
A Description of Jackson County from 1827
7/17/08
By: Dale Cox
One of the most interesting accounts ever written about Jackson County is found in the journal of an early Catholic Bishop, the Rt. Rev. Michael Portier. He entered the county in June of 1827 by way of Orange Hill in what is now Washington County and left the only known description of the site of Marianna before the founding of the city.
Biship Portier crossed over the site where Marianna would be founded just a few months later while making his way on horseback from Pensacola to St. Augustine. In his journal he wrote:
"On every side you could hear the rippling of the brooks which here and there blended their waters and developed into streams of deep and regular formation. Rocks were to be met as high as the trees themselves, and bordered around with wild flowers, while sweet-scented shrubbery decked the sides and summits of these pygmy mountains. Natural wells, underground caves, oak trees blasted by lightning or cast by the tempest across our narrow pathway like an artificial bridge – everything was present to enhance the spectacle."
Less than six months after the bishop passed across the beautiful site, Robert Beveridge and his workers began carving the modern city of Marianna from the wilderness. Portier’s description provides a good idea of why the site was considered as an excellent location for a settlement.
Pushing on across the Chipola River, the bishop spent the night at the home of William Robinson overlooking Blue Spring. Robinson had moved to the area from Georgia a few years earlier and acquired more than 3,100 acres in the area around Blue Spring. A life-long bachelor, he was described as less than an ideal host by Portier.
The bishop was impressed, however, with the spring itself. "This beautiful body of water, of perfect blue color," he wrote, "imparts the same tint to whatever it reflects, and when the sun is in the zenith the reflected images take on all the colors of the rainbow through the prismatic influence of the waters."
Portier’s description of Blue Spring provides a fascinating word picture of how it must have appeared before the creek flowing from it was dammed later in the 19th century:
"Like a small flood tired of being hampered and held up in its progress, it pours over with mighty force into a bed cut deep into the rock. This bed or vase is oval in shape and possibly a hundred feet wide at its broadest span. So clear is the water that the smallest objects are distinctly seen in it at a depth of thirty or even thirty-five feet; while all around the magnolia, laurel, cypress, and cedar are found in profusion. The wild grape-vine, after pushing its plaint branches to the very tops of these trees, hangs suspended over the stream in festoons. Fish without number find shelter in this retreat; but at the slightest sound of an inquisitive wayfarer they seek speedy refuge in the deeper places."
Bishop Portier passed on from Blue Spring after only one night and crossed the Apalachicola River in a small boat the next day. His account lives on, however, as one of the finest descriptions written of early Jackson County.
Editor’s Note: Bishop Portier’s journal is one of the early accounts of Jackson County in the new book The History of Jackson County, Florida: Volume One by Dale Cox. A native of the Two Egg area, Cox is a regular contributor to the Jackson County Times. You can learn more about his new book and read more of his writings at www.jacksoncountytimes.net.
By: Dale Cox
One of the most interesting accounts ever written about Jackson County is found in the journal of an early Catholic Bishop, the Rt. Rev. Michael Portier. He entered the county in June of 1827 by way of Orange Hill in what is now Washington County and left the only known description of the site of Marianna before the founding of the city.
Biship Portier crossed over the site where Marianna would be founded just a few months later while making his way on horseback from Pensacola to St. Augustine. In his journal he wrote:
"On every side you could hear the rippling of the brooks which here and there blended their waters and developed into streams of deep and regular formation. Rocks were to be met as high as the trees themselves, and bordered around with wild flowers, while sweet-scented shrubbery decked the sides and summits of these pygmy mountains. Natural wells, underground caves, oak trees blasted by lightning or cast by the tempest across our narrow pathway like an artificial bridge – everything was present to enhance the spectacle."
Less than six months after the bishop passed across the beautiful site, Robert Beveridge and his workers began carving the modern city of Marianna from the wilderness. Portier’s description provides a good idea of why the site was considered as an excellent location for a settlement.
Pushing on across the Chipola River, the bishop spent the night at the home of William Robinson overlooking Blue Spring. Robinson had moved to the area from Georgia a few years earlier and acquired more than 3,100 acres in the area around Blue Spring. A life-long bachelor, he was described as less than an ideal host by Portier.
The bishop was impressed, however, with the spring itself. "This beautiful body of water, of perfect blue color," he wrote, "imparts the same tint to whatever it reflects, and when the sun is in the zenith the reflected images take on all the colors of the rainbow through the prismatic influence of the waters."
Portier’s description of Blue Spring provides a fascinating word picture of how it must have appeared before the creek flowing from it was dammed later in the 19th century:
"Like a small flood tired of being hampered and held up in its progress, it pours over with mighty force into a bed cut deep into the rock. This bed or vase is oval in shape and possibly a hundred feet wide at its broadest span. So clear is the water that the smallest objects are distinctly seen in it at a depth of thirty or even thirty-five feet; while all around the magnolia, laurel, cypress, and cedar are found in profusion. The wild grape-vine, after pushing its plaint branches to the very tops of these trees, hangs suspended over the stream in festoons. Fish without number find shelter in this retreat; but at the slightest sound of an inquisitive wayfarer they seek speedy refuge in the deeper places."
Bishop Portier passed on from Blue Spring after only one night and crossed the Apalachicola River in a small boat the next day. His account lives on, however, as one of the finest descriptions written of early Jackson County.
Editor’s Note: Bishop Portier’s journal is one of the early accounts of Jackson County in the new book The History of Jackson County, Florida: Volume One by Dale Cox. A native of the Two Egg area, Cox is a regular contributor to the Jackson County Times. You can learn more about his new book and read more of his writings at www.jacksoncountytimes.net.
Cottondale School Reunion
7/17/08
By: Sid Riley
Often fund raisers are not much fun. That was certainly not the case in Alford Friday evening as the community held a special event and dinner as a "homecoming" for Cottondale classmates. Over 125 people attended the event, and everyone came away with a rekindling of fond memories, strengthened friendships, a continuing sense of "belonging", and a stomach filled with good ole Southern home cooking.
Mayor George Gay, the Town Council, and City Clerk Sylvester Tharp along with the Alford Community Association have embarked on a program to raise funds which will be used to beautify the community with added landscaping, plants, flowers, and other needed items. The ACO was formed as a non-profit organization for this purpose on April 16. Hosting this event was a fund raising effort for the ACO.
The goal is to create a more positive image of the community, where groomed yards are seen instead of junk, overgrown brush, and garbage. Alford can be converted into a quaint, beautiful town. This effort will enhance the city, and will improve property values. Peggy Yon Mills was made the first President of the Alford Community Organization, J.W. Dilmore is VP, Faye Melvin, Secretary, and Charlene Smith, Treasurer.
So, in the coming months do not be surprised if you see an upsurge in community activities, community spirit, and volunteer fund raising events in Alford. These efforts will then be followed by a visual transformation as one travels through the town. The large crowd of supporting attendees at this first, "kickoff" event testifies to the hometown spirit that thrives in Alford and the bonds that will forever link those Cottondale class mates.
By: Sid Riley
Often fund raisers are not much fun. That was certainly not the case in Alford Friday evening as the community held a special event and dinner as a "homecoming" for Cottondale classmates. Over 125 people attended the event, and everyone came away with a rekindling of fond memories, strengthened friendships, a continuing sense of "belonging", and a stomach filled with good ole Southern home cooking.
Mayor George Gay, the Town Council, and City Clerk Sylvester Tharp along with the Alford Community Association have embarked on a program to raise funds which will be used to beautify the community with added landscaping, plants, flowers, and other needed items. The ACO was formed as a non-profit organization for this purpose on April 16. Hosting this event was a fund raising effort for the ACO.
The goal is to create a more positive image of the community, where groomed yards are seen instead of junk, overgrown brush, and garbage. Alford can be converted into a quaint, beautiful town. This effort will enhance the city, and will improve property values. Peggy Yon Mills was made the first President of the Alford Community Organization, J.W. Dilmore is VP, Faye Melvin, Secretary, and Charlene Smith, Treasurer.
So, in the coming months do not be surprised if you see an upsurge in community activities, community spirit, and volunteer fund raising events in Alford. These efforts will then be followed by a visual transformation as one travels through the town. The large crowd of supporting attendees at this first, "kickoff" event testifies to the hometown spirit that thrives in Alford and the bonds that will forever link those Cottondale class mates.
Historian Dick Hinson Entertains The Optimist Club Members
7/17/08
Above, Center, Dick Hinson was born in Marianna, Florida, August 14, 1926, into an old Jackson County family. His father, one of thirteen horse and mule traders in Jack-son County at the time, had moved to Marianna in 1921 from around Campbellton and Graceville, where the Hinson Family had settled many generations previously. Except for brief periods away at school and a term of duty as a Navy SEAL (Frog Man) in the Pacific during World War II, Mr. Hinson has lived all his life in Marianna where He and his wife Ann raised a family of four boys.
Mr. Hinson established and ran a successful insurance agency in Marianna for many years, and Hinson is currently a columnist with The Jackson county Times, Weekly News Paper, Marianna, Florida. Mr. Hinson is a noted Historian within the North Florida Region and a highly sought after speaker on that subject.
Mr. Hinson was, as always, well received by the members of the Marianna Optimist Club, and Tommy Grainger, above left, was congratulated on his choice of speaker for last week’s program. Mr. Hinson’s familiar, easygoing style of speaking and soft spoken words of knowledge were scrubbed from the air and into the minds of the audience, as if his words were spun of fine gold, and their minds a treasure chest in which to lock the well spun stories away.
He began by setting the stage for his experiences as a boy, growing up in Marinna during the early twenties. It was a much different time then; many of the streets were unpaved, and much of the traffic of that period was by mule drawn wagon.
Much of the State to the south of Marianna was yet undeveloped wilderness and swamp land. Also, much of the rural lands around Jackson County didn’t lend its self to farming by tractors due to the hilly terrain, tree stumps, and outcropping of indigenous lime rock, not to mention the occasional clump of impossible pipe clay that could bog down anything with wheels. This was precisely why the Hinson family set their mule trading business up in Marianna, the center of this most difficult terrain to cultivate by mechanical means. On the other hand, the lands to our west were less difficult and lent themselves much better to mechanized farming by tractors and other labor reducing implements of the period.
The Hinson’s had located their mule barn business behind the current day, Jim’s Buffet, and adjacent to the rail road tracks that exists today. The general office was located on Jefferson Street pretty much across from the County Court House and was situated inside the rather large mule barn with one small doorway going into it from the street.
In the early twenties much of the farming was done by share croppers, who for the most part were black. A share crop-per could provide their own mule and farm implements, or use the land owners mules and implements. However, the share cropper could do much better if he was able to provide his own mule, which many did. This meant that about half of the Hinson’s business in mule trading and implements would be with the black farmer.
According to Dick Hinson, his father did not racially discriminate when it came to his mule trading business, as long as, he was dealt fairly by the customer, he gladly reciprocated in kind.
Hinson recalled the depression period of the late 1920’s and 1930’s in Jackson County. Most of Florida had fallen into a depression after the, "Boom," collapsed in late 1926. By 1933 most banks in the country were closed, and Marianna was no exception. The People’s Bank of Marianna was in receivership, and the offices in Cottondale, Sneads, and Graceville, were closed.
President Roosevelt was inaugurated on March 4th 1933, and his first act was to declare a, "Bank Holiday," allowing insolvent banks to close, and allowing solvent banks to open. By March 16th, 1933, Citizens State Bank of Marianna, The Bank of Greenwood, and the Malone Bank had re-opened. Due to President Roosevelt’s Workers Prosperity Assistance (WPA) Program’s which included the Civilian Construction Corps (CCC), which completed many projects in Jackson County, and the onset of World War II, Jackson County was on its way back to prosperity by 1939.
Above, Center, Dick Hinson was born in Marianna, Florida, August 14, 1926, into an old Jackson County family. His father, one of thirteen horse and mule traders in Jack-son County at the time, had moved to Marianna in 1921 from around Campbellton and Graceville, where the Hinson Family had settled many generations previously. Except for brief periods away at school and a term of duty as a Navy SEAL (Frog Man) in the Pacific during World War II, Mr. Hinson has lived all his life in Marianna where He and his wife Ann raised a family of four boys.
Mr. Hinson established and ran a successful insurance agency in Marianna for many years, and Hinson is currently a columnist with The Jackson county Times, Weekly News Paper, Marianna, Florida. Mr. Hinson is a noted Historian within the North Florida Region and a highly sought after speaker on that subject.
Mr. Hinson was, as always, well received by the members of the Marianna Optimist Club, and Tommy Grainger, above left, was congratulated on his choice of speaker for last week’s program. Mr. Hinson’s familiar, easygoing style of speaking and soft spoken words of knowledge were scrubbed from the air and into the minds of the audience, as if his words were spun of fine gold, and their minds a treasure chest in which to lock the well spun stories away.
He began by setting the stage for his experiences as a boy, growing up in Marinna during the early twenties. It was a much different time then; many of the streets were unpaved, and much of the traffic of that period was by mule drawn wagon.
Much of the State to the south of Marianna was yet undeveloped wilderness and swamp land. Also, much of the rural lands around Jackson County didn’t lend its self to farming by tractors due to the hilly terrain, tree stumps, and outcropping of indigenous lime rock, not to mention the occasional clump of impossible pipe clay that could bog down anything with wheels. This was precisely why the Hinson family set their mule trading business up in Marianna, the center of this most difficult terrain to cultivate by mechanical means. On the other hand, the lands to our west were less difficult and lent themselves much better to mechanized farming by tractors and other labor reducing implements of the period.
The Hinson’s had located their mule barn business behind the current day, Jim’s Buffet, and adjacent to the rail road tracks that exists today. The general office was located on Jefferson Street pretty much across from the County Court House and was situated inside the rather large mule barn with one small doorway going into it from the street.
In the early twenties much of the farming was done by share croppers, who for the most part were black. A share crop-per could provide their own mule and farm implements, or use the land owners mules and implements. However, the share cropper could do much better if he was able to provide his own mule, which many did. This meant that about half of the Hinson’s business in mule trading and implements would be with the black farmer.
According to Dick Hinson, his father did not racially discriminate when it came to his mule trading business, as long as, he was dealt fairly by the customer, he gladly reciprocated in kind.
Hinson recalled the depression period of the late 1920’s and 1930’s in Jackson County. Most of Florida had fallen into a depression after the, "Boom," collapsed in late 1926. By 1933 most banks in the country were closed, and Marianna was no exception. The People’s Bank of Marianna was in receivership, and the offices in Cottondale, Sneads, and Graceville, were closed.
President Roosevelt was inaugurated on March 4th 1933, and his first act was to declare a, "Bank Holiday," allowing insolvent banks to close, and allowing solvent banks to open. By March 16th, 1933, Citizens State Bank of Marianna, The Bank of Greenwood, and the Malone Bank had re-opened. Due to President Roosevelt’s Workers Prosperity Assistance (WPA) Program’s which included the Civilian Construction Corps (CCC), which completed many projects in Jackson County, and the onset of World War II, Jackson County was on its way back to prosperity by 1939.
What the Admiral Needed was a Good Cigar!
7/17/08
By Homer Hirt
For the past couple of weeks I have been busy redecorating my family room. For fifteen years it has looked like the Museum of the Confederacy, North Florida Location. My wife and I had traveled throughout the Old South, visiting battlefields, purchasing books, memorabilia and prints that took up most of the available space. Recently I decided that it was time for the Navy to move in and take over. During my son’s last visit we began hanging the relics that I had accumulated through the years, ones that mean a great deal to me because of my experiences in the U. S. Navy.
Over the mantle we placed a print of the USS SAUFLEY, a Fletcher class destroyer, the second most decorated ship in World War II, boasting sixteen battle stars. I was a young but proud officer in her in the 1950s. Now she is a fishing reef off Key West, resting on the bottom in 100 feet of water.
On an easel near the south wall is my watercolor painting of USS TWEEDY, a destroyer escort. The painting was done for me by Richard C. Moore, a very good friend, a former shipmate and a renowned maritime artist, TWEEDY also is on the bottom of the Atlantic, off Jacksonville, sunk by our own gunfire as a target ship. I am told that it took all day for her to "die".
On the big wall hangs photographs of all four of my ships, and several signed prints of battle actions from World War II, a couple of them autographed not only by the artist but by the participant in that particular engagement. Interspersed among these framed pictures are brass plaques from each ship, giving the shipyard where each was built and when she was launched and placed in service. I have these prominently displayed because we as seamen learned that the success of a ship did not depend entirely on our abilities as we steamed her, but on the skills demonstrated by the men (and sometimes the women) that built her during the 1940s.
Next to the USS MONROVIA, an attack transport that landed troops in many amphibious assaults, we left a space. And today I filled it with a framed photograph of an admiral, wearing his dress blues with gold on each sleeve, his service ribbons from three wars and the dolphins that show he was a submariner. He is resting against a desk and in his right hand he holds a cigar.
The admiral is John S. McCain, Jr., the father of Senator John S. McCain and the son of Admiral Bill Halsey’s right hand man in the Pacific in World War II. He himself commanded two submarines in his own right, earning medals for valor. Then, the war over, he continued his career, eventually being assigned to the MONROVIA as commanding officer. And there is where I met him.
He came aboard one warm day in Little Creek, Virginia, and read his orders, relieving Captain Dimmick. The crew was dismissed, and the officers adjourned to the wardroom. Captain McCain sat at the head of the table, with a coffee cup in front of him, and lit up a cigar. We were quiet. We waited for his first order. Many new commanders would quote John Paul Jones ("give me a fast ship, for I intend to sail into harm’s way"). This was when we would get the first idea of what kind of a "skipper" we would have. He looked around the room, singled me out, one of the junior supply officers and the paymaster, and gave his first order, loud and clear: "Pay, I will need a case of Dutch Masters cigars".
I immediately left the wardroom and headed downtown. We did not have "his" brand on contract, so I found a supplier that had them. In one of the few strokes of foresight on my part, I purchased two cases. And a good thing I did. Within two weeks almost the entire crew was smoking Dutch Masters, just like the captain. And I was one of them!
McCain was dynamic, charismatic, cared for the crew and was very profane in his speech. We called him "G. D," but not to his face.
In a few months I was transferred to another ship, and then released to inactive duty. Remaining in the Reserve, I was recalled in 1961 for the Berlin Crisis and the run-up to the Missile Crisis. McCain was by then an admiral, and one day while the TWEEDY was in port in Norfolk, he asked to come aboard to visit us. He came, praised the crew and then we went to the wardroom. Once again he was seated at the head of the table, and I was at the foot. Once again he lit up a cigar. Then he looked at me, stared for a minute, and then said "Don’t I know you from somewhere, lieutenant". I replied "Yes sir. I was your paymaster in MONROVIA". He smiled and then said, loud and clear: "Yes, that’s right, and a G—D--- fine one, too".
I could not have been prouder if I had been awarded the Medal of Honor!
By Homer Hirt
For the past couple of weeks I have been busy redecorating my family room. For fifteen years it has looked like the Museum of the Confederacy, North Florida Location. My wife and I had traveled throughout the Old South, visiting battlefields, purchasing books, memorabilia and prints that took up most of the available space. Recently I decided that it was time for the Navy to move in and take over. During my son’s last visit we began hanging the relics that I had accumulated through the years, ones that mean a great deal to me because of my experiences in the U. S. Navy.
Over the mantle we placed a print of the USS SAUFLEY, a Fletcher class destroyer, the second most decorated ship in World War II, boasting sixteen battle stars. I was a young but proud officer in her in the 1950s. Now she is a fishing reef off Key West, resting on the bottom in 100 feet of water.
On an easel near the south wall is my watercolor painting of USS TWEEDY, a destroyer escort. The painting was done for me by Richard C. Moore, a very good friend, a former shipmate and a renowned maritime artist, TWEEDY also is on the bottom of the Atlantic, off Jacksonville, sunk by our own gunfire as a target ship. I am told that it took all day for her to "die".
On the big wall hangs photographs of all four of my ships, and several signed prints of battle actions from World War II, a couple of them autographed not only by the artist but by the participant in that particular engagement. Interspersed among these framed pictures are brass plaques from each ship, giving the shipyard where each was built and when she was launched and placed in service. I have these prominently displayed because we as seamen learned that the success of a ship did not depend entirely on our abilities as we steamed her, but on the skills demonstrated by the men (and sometimes the women) that built her during the 1940s.
Next to the USS MONROVIA, an attack transport that landed troops in many amphibious assaults, we left a space. And today I filled it with a framed photograph of an admiral, wearing his dress blues with gold on each sleeve, his service ribbons from three wars and the dolphins that show he was a submariner. He is resting against a desk and in his right hand he holds a cigar.
The admiral is John S. McCain, Jr., the father of Senator John S. McCain and the son of Admiral Bill Halsey’s right hand man in the Pacific in World War II. He himself commanded two submarines in his own right, earning medals for valor. Then, the war over, he continued his career, eventually being assigned to the MONROVIA as commanding officer. And there is where I met him.
He came aboard one warm day in Little Creek, Virginia, and read his orders, relieving Captain Dimmick. The crew was dismissed, and the officers adjourned to the wardroom. Captain McCain sat at the head of the table, with a coffee cup in front of him, and lit up a cigar. We were quiet. We waited for his first order. Many new commanders would quote John Paul Jones ("give me a fast ship, for I intend to sail into harm’s way"). This was when we would get the first idea of what kind of a "skipper" we would have. He looked around the room, singled me out, one of the junior supply officers and the paymaster, and gave his first order, loud and clear: "Pay, I will need a case of Dutch Masters cigars".
I immediately left the wardroom and headed downtown. We did not have "his" brand on contract, so I found a supplier that had them. In one of the few strokes of foresight on my part, I purchased two cases. And a good thing I did. Within two weeks almost the entire crew was smoking Dutch Masters, just like the captain. And I was one of them!
McCain was dynamic, charismatic, cared for the crew and was very profane in his speech. We called him "G. D," but not to his face.
In a few months I was transferred to another ship, and then released to inactive duty. Remaining in the Reserve, I was recalled in 1961 for the Berlin Crisis and the run-up to the Missile Crisis. McCain was by then an admiral, and one day while the TWEEDY was in port in Norfolk, he asked to come aboard to visit us. He came, praised the crew and then we went to the wardroom. Once again he was seated at the head of the table, and I was at the foot. Once again he lit up a cigar. Then he looked at me, stared for a minute, and then said "Don’t I know you from somewhere, lieutenant". I replied "Yes sir. I was your paymaster in MONROVIA". He smiled and then said, loud and clear: "Yes, that’s right, and a G—D--- fine one, too".
I could not have been prouder if I had been awarded the Medal of Honor!
Eddie Hendry, Wants to Represent You in Washington
By: Sid Riley
7/17/08
Eddie Hendry was born in 1959 in Taylor County Florida. He attended High School at Godby in Tallahassee, and then attended college at The Citadel, in Charleston, South Carolina where he earned a Bachelors of Science Degree in Political Science. He also graduated with honors, and was on the Dean’s List, and was a Distinguished Military Graduate. Eddie also played baseball while at the Citadel.
He then entered the U.S. Army as an officer, rising to the rank of Captain and serving as a Company Commander. He earned the American Legion Military Excellence Award.
From 1986 until the present time he has worked in private industry, in management and in sales. He is currently a sales representative for a pharmaceutical company.
Eddie Hendry and his wife, Angela have two children, Courtney (17), and Grant (14). They attend the Fellowship Presbyterian Church, where he is an Elder. He is also an active member of the Tallahassee Republican Party, and the American Diabetes Association.
Hendry has made the decision to seek the Congressional position because he feels he can help create a group of active legislators that will be able to move our nation away from the perils of our time and back into a period of peace and prosperity.
Hendry’s political philosophy is one of "minimization of federal government and return of control of many decisions back to the State Governments. He is a conservative Republican. His specific stands on pertinent issues are:
- Creation of a short and long term energy policy that will move our nation away from foreign oil dependence over the next twenty years. "We should immediately begin to drill off shore and any where there are reserves. Which will hurt Florida tourism the most, off shore drilling or $7.00 per gallon gas?"
- Hendry feels the "Fair Tax" would improve our outdated tax system.
- Feels the immigration issue is not one of passing more laws…it is an issue of enforcing the laws we have. He favors immigration, but only LEGAL immigration.
- Favors reducing federal control over areas that should be under States control, such as Education, Health Care, and Transportation. Favors elimination of wasteful pork barrel "earmarks".
- Favors letting the military control events in Iraq and Afghanistan, not politicians.
- Feels that each State should devise the best delivery system for its citizens. Feels program costs can be reduced if health care is managed by the states instead of the Federal government.
- Favors recognizing that our nation and society is a faith based society, built on Christian beliefs. "While we must respect other religions and beliefs, they must not take the place of our cultural and societal foundations.
"If we keep sending the same people to Congress term after term, how can we expect to realize different results," Hendry states emphatically. Eddie Hendry can be reached through hendryforcongress@gmail.com
7/17/08
Eddie Hendry was born in 1959 in Taylor County Florida. He attended High School at Godby in Tallahassee, and then attended college at The Citadel, in Charleston, South Carolina where he earned a Bachelors of Science Degree in Political Science. He also graduated with honors, and was on the Dean’s List, and was a Distinguished Military Graduate. Eddie also played baseball while at the Citadel.
He then entered the U.S. Army as an officer, rising to the rank of Captain and serving as a Company Commander. He earned the American Legion Military Excellence Award.
From 1986 until the present time he has worked in private industry, in management and in sales. He is currently a sales representative for a pharmaceutical company.
Eddie Hendry and his wife, Angela have two children, Courtney (17), and Grant (14). They attend the Fellowship Presbyterian Church, where he is an Elder. He is also an active member of the Tallahassee Republican Party, and the American Diabetes Association.
Hendry has made the decision to seek the Congressional position because he feels he can help create a group of active legislators that will be able to move our nation away from the perils of our time and back into a period of peace and prosperity.
Hendry’s political philosophy is one of "minimization of federal government and return of control of many decisions back to the State Governments. He is a conservative Republican. His specific stands on pertinent issues are:
- Creation of a short and long term energy policy that will move our nation away from foreign oil dependence over the next twenty years. "We should immediately begin to drill off shore and any where there are reserves. Which will hurt Florida tourism the most, off shore drilling or $7.00 per gallon gas?"
- Hendry feels the "Fair Tax" would improve our outdated tax system.
- Feels the immigration issue is not one of passing more laws…it is an issue of enforcing the laws we have. He favors immigration, but only LEGAL immigration.
- Favors reducing federal control over areas that should be under States control, such as Education, Health Care, and Transportation. Favors elimination of wasteful pork barrel "earmarks".
- Favors letting the military control events in Iraq and Afghanistan, not politicians.
- Feels that each State should devise the best delivery system for its citizens. Feels program costs can be reduced if health care is managed by the states instead of the Federal government.
- Favors recognizing that our nation and society is a faith based society, built on Christian beliefs. "While we must respect other religions and beliefs, they must not take the place of our cultural and societal foundations.
"If we keep sending the same people to Congress term after term, how can we expect to realize different results," Hendry states emphatically. Eddie Hendry can be reached through hendryforcongress@gmail.com
Jackson County School District Receives Improved School Grading for the 07-08 School Year
7/10/08
Twelve of Jackson County’s schools have been graded and of those twelve, 5 received A’s, 3 received B’s and 4 received a C. This is the first time since 2004 that Jackson County doesn’t have a D school. Schools receiving an A this year are Marianna Middle, Riverside Elementary, Golson Elementary, Sneads Elementary, and Sneads High. Schools receiving a B include Cottondale Elementary, Cottondale High, and Graceville High. Graceville Elementary, Grand Ridge School, Malone School and Marianna High received a C. Five schools improved when compared to last year’s grade, four maintained the same grade as last year and two schools dropped from an A to a B.
Superintendent Sims was very pleased with the progress of the students and schools performances in Jackson County. "I am especially happy to see the improvement made district-wide in reading, mathematics and writing. Many factors are considered in the calculation of the school grades with FCAT results being the primary consideration. Our teachers work very hard and do a good job of preparing our students for this annual assessment. I am really pleased to say that we do not have any D or F schools this year. These improvements demonstrate the fact that we have systems in place that are moving our students forward. Through working with each school staff we will continue to improve the quality of education our students are receiving," Sims stated.
Twelve of Jackson County’s schools have been graded and of those twelve, 5 received A’s, 3 received B’s and 4 received a C. This is the first time since 2004 that Jackson County doesn’t have a D school. Schools receiving an A this year are Marianna Middle, Riverside Elementary, Golson Elementary, Sneads Elementary, and Sneads High. Schools receiving a B include Cottondale Elementary, Cottondale High, and Graceville High. Graceville Elementary, Grand Ridge School, Malone School and Marianna High received a C. Five schools improved when compared to last year’s grade, four maintained the same grade as last year and two schools dropped from an A to a B.
Superintendent Sims was very pleased with the progress of the students and schools performances in Jackson County. "I am especially happy to see the improvement made district-wide in reading, mathematics and writing. Many factors are considered in the calculation of the school grades with FCAT results being the primary consideration. Our teachers work very hard and do a good job of preparing our students for this annual assessment. I am really pleased to say that we do not have any D or F schools this year. These improvements demonstrate the fact that we have systems in place that are moving our students forward. Through working with each school staff we will continue to improve the quality of education our students are receiving," Sims stated.
New Admissions Counselor at BCF
7/10/08
"Every time I recruit a new student, I think about the tremendous experience that I experienced as a BCF student, and all the knowledge I gained at this wonderful institution." Those are the words of Kyle Graham, the newest Admissions Counselor at The Baptist College of Florida (BCF) in Graceville, and also a man who is passionate about his call and his job!
A 2008 graduate of BCF, this Lake City, Florida, native is very familiar with working on campus. Graham served as a Resident Director in one of the dorms, WFBU Radio Station co-host, and was a vital member of the marketing team recruiting students while attending school. After graduation, Graham eagerly accepted a position on campus as an Admissions Counselor so his new wife, Christy, could complete her BA in Music Education.
"Kyle is a breath of fresh air to us all. He represents the college very well," stated Sandra Richards, BCF Marketing Director. "He has a heart for ministry and service, and is completely sold on the mission of ‘Changing the World Through the Unchanging Word.®"
Although Graham quickly tells people that his primary call is to preach the Word of God, his focus right now is on "devoting myself to pray for prospective students and to recruit as many as possible."
To learn more about the degrees and programs offered at The Baptist College of Florida, call Kyle Graham at 800-328-2660 x 460.
"Every time I recruit a new student, I think about the tremendous experience that I experienced as a BCF student, and all the knowledge I gained at this wonderful institution." Those are the words of Kyle Graham, the newest Admissions Counselor at The Baptist College of Florida (BCF) in Graceville, and also a man who is passionate about his call and his job!
A 2008 graduate of BCF, this Lake City, Florida, native is very familiar with working on campus. Graham served as a Resident Director in one of the dorms, WFBU Radio Station co-host, and was a vital member of the marketing team recruiting students while attending school. After graduation, Graham eagerly accepted a position on campus as an Admissions Counselor so his new wife, Christy, could complete her BA in Music Education.
"Kyle is a breath of fresh air to us all. He represents the college very well," stated Sandra Richards, BCF Marketing Director. "He has a heart for ministry and service, and is completely sold on the mission of ‘Changing the World Through the Unchanging Word.®"
Although Graham quickly tells people that his primary call is to preach the Word of God, his focus right now is on "devoting myself to pray for prospective students and to recruit as many as possible."
To learn more about the degrees and programs offered at The Baptist College of Florida, call Kyle Graham at 800-328-2660 x 460.
Letter to the Editor 7/10/08
June 26, 2008
Congressman Allen Boyd
1227 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Allen:
Today the stock market went down another 358 points and the price of oil went up over $5.00 to almost $140.00 a barrel. Did these events affect you? No!!! Well they did me. I am in pain!! I need your help.
When the democrats took over the house and senate all of you promised change. The current presidential nominee for the democrat party also promises change. Is this kind of change you had in mind? I am sick and tired of this "do nothing" Congress controlled by politicians like you who sit on your backsides, issue pontifications denouncing more drilling for oil and do nothing to help the poor people on a fixed income to just exist. Where is the better life you democrats keep promising us?
I hope you will come to Jackson County Florida on your next recess so I can personally confront you with these questions. Allen, you talk a good game, but I see no action from you and the other Blue Dog democrats to make my life any better. $4.00 a gallon gas is not what I call acceptable change!!
Your recent statement that drilling in the Gulf will do nothing to help for 10 years, is kind of crazy talk in my opinion. Where do you think we will be 10 years from now if we don’t start today? Where do you think we would be today if Clinton had not vetoed the energy bill passed by Congress 10 years ago? I am disgusted, like over 80% of all Americans, that you and the other leaders in Congress can’t work toward finding solutions to our problems rather than just taking your monthly paychecks and simply issuing statements.
I expect action!! You can believe voters in this district will hold you accountable in November.
Very respectfully, Jim Hart Bascom, Florida
Editors Note: This letter to Congressman Boyd was published at the request of the writer.
Congressman Allen Boyd
1227 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Allen:
Today the stock market went down another 358 points and the price of oil went up over $5.00 to almost $140.00 a barrel. Did these events affect you? No!!! Well they did me. I am in pain!! I need your help.
When the democrats took over the house and senate all of you promised change. The current presidential nominee for the democrat party also promises change. Is this kind of change you had in mind? I am sick and tired of this "do nothing" Congress controlled by politicians like you who sit on your backsides, issue pontifications denouncing more drilling for oil and do nothing to help the poor people on a fixed income to just exist. Where is the better life you democrats keep promising us?
I hope you will come to Jackson County Florida on your next recess so I can personally confront you with these questions. Allen, you talk a good game, but I see no action from you and the other Blue Dog democrats to make my life any better. $4.00 a gallon gas is not what I call acceptable change!!
Your recent statement that drilling in the Gulf will do nothing to help for 10 years, is kind of crazy talk in my opinion. Where do you think we will be 10 years from now if we don’t start today? Where do you think we would be today if Clinton had not vetoed the energy bill passed by Congress 10 years ago? I am disgusted, like over 80% of all Americans, that you and the other leaders in Congress can’t work toward finding solutions to our problems rather than just taking your monthly paychecks and simply issuing statements.
I expect action!! You can believe voters in this district will hold you accountable in November.
Very respectfully, Jim Hart Bascom, Florida
Editors Note: This letter to Congressman Boyd was published at the request of the writer.
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