Our November ballot will include six constitutional amendments…are you informed on these issues?
By Sid Riley
The November ballot will include six amendments for your yes or no vote. Before you enter that booth you should be prepared to make these decisions. We are providing a brief overview of these amendments with the pro and con opinions on each. We hope this helps you in making your decision.
Originally there were nine amendments scheduled to be on the ballot. For various reasons, Amendments #5, #7, and #9 have been removed and will not appear on the ballot. Six remain and you should step into the booth with your opinion formed on each issue.
Amendment #1: Protects Rights of Inelegible Aliens to own property in Florida.
Discussion: At present the Florida Constitution allows our legislature to pass laws (if they desire) which would prohibit non-citizens from owning land. This amendment would assure these individuals the right to own Florida properties.
The legislature has never passed laws prohibiting aliens from owning property…but they could. This looming possibility prohibits many foreign concerns from considering investing in Florida developments. This amendment, if passed, would prohibit the legislature from passing ownership restrictive legislation.
Pro Arguments- Many feel that this existing loophole could sponsor discrimination against specific ethnic or racial groups.
Con Arguments- Many argue that the existing law should not be altered since it allows the legislature to react if needed against a homeland security issue involving a non-citizen residing in the state. They also feel the existing wording acts as a deterrent to illegal immigration.
Amendment #2: Marriage Definition Amendment
Discussion: This amendment defines marriage as the legal union of one man and one woman, and that no other type of union is treated as marriage.
Pro Arguments- This strict definition promotes family structures and family relationships. This amendment prohibits some liberal court interpretation from altering existing laws and rulings in this matter.
Con Arguments- One argument is that this amendment isn’t needed since we already have laws that essentially say the same thing. A second argument is that the amendment might encourage more "domestic partnerships" instead of marriages. A third argument is that in cases where couples have not married in order to maximize pension and social security benefits might also be denied other marriage benefits if this amendment is passed.
Amendment #3: Permanently exempts investments in energy saving devices and increased storm protection improvements from property assessment increases.
Discussion: Prohibits property assessments being raised when property owner invests in energy saving or storm protection enhancements. Also repeals existing 10 year time limit for exemption for energy saving devices.
Pro Arguments- These types of investments should be encouraged and those investing should not be penalized with higher taxes.
Con Arguments- The property value has been increased by the investment and should thus be taxed. Too many exemptions already exist.
Amendment #4: Provides for removal of property from tax rolls if set aside by government or private owners if encumbered by "perpetual conservation easements". Land is forever set aside as "green space" and can have no agricultural or commercial use. Thus will not be taxed.
Discussion: This would encourage government and private owners to set property aside for future generations in its natural, undisturbed state.
Pro Arguments- Florida’s growing population which is expected to reach 40 million by 2050 increases need for setting aside lands protected from urban sprawl and industry. Green space will become a smaller and smaller percentage of total acreage. This amendment will encourage governments and property owners to set more land aside for future populations to enjoy, since the land will be tax exempt.
Con Arguments – Setting land aside on the basis of "in perpetuity" is too restrictive. This wording could create future problems. It is impossible to anticipate what future conditions will warrant. Also, could be a huge tax benefit for large property owners who could set the land aside with no property taxes, and then enjoy the use of the land for hunting and fishing.
Amendment #5: Removing school taxes from property taxes and replacing school funding with state sales tax……………………REMOVED FROM BALLOT
Amendment #6: Protects waterfront business property from huge assessment increases because of the value enhancement created by nearby developments.
Discussion: Many small restaurants, marinas, bait shops, boat repair shops, etc. are being forced out of business because of soaring property taxes created when new development occurs in the area.
Pro Arguments- Taxes should be based on current use, not on some hypothetical best use of the property for tax generation purposes. Agricultural lands are already protected from increased valuation due to growth on adjacent properties. Tax paying small businesses should not be forced out of business because of tax policies.
Con Arguments – This just creates another tax break for special-interest groups. Could be used as a way for speculators to buy and hold lands while waiting for opportunity to come along. This causes others to pay more taxes.
Amendment #7: Religious Freedom Amendment. Enables faith based charities and schools to be eligible for programs that use public funds. …. REMOVED FROM BALLOT
Amendment #8: Enables county governments to levy local option taxes for community college funding, after voter approval.
Discussion: The existing system leaves the 28 community colleges in Florida at the mercy of the state legislature for their funding. This amendment enables local communities to create special taxes to assist their local community colleges when special needs arise.
Pro Arguments- Increases level of local control and local oversight over decisions relating to community college operations.
Con Arguments- This is just another way to increase taxes on the struggling taxpayers.
Amendment #9: Requires 65% of school funding to be spent on classroom related needs instead of administrative activities and functions. Over 400 school administrators in Dade County were found to be receiving six figure salaries……. THIS AMENDMENT HAS BEEN REMOVED FROM THE BALLOT.
Editors Note: We have attempted to present these amendments in plain language to facilitate understanding. We hope this helps.
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Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Community Calendar for the Week of 10/23/2008
Every Tuesday & Thursday
● The Chipley Farmers Market is preparing for the fall season. With the support of the growers and other members of the community, this year’s fall market will be great. The fall season will open on Tuesday, October 21st from 12:00 to 5:00 pm. The Market will be open every Tuesday and Thursday from 12:00 to 5:00 as long as we have good participation from vendors and the community. If you have any questions or need additional information please contact Collin Adcock, at the Washington County Extension Office (850) 638-6180. Thank you for supporting the Chipley Farmers Market. I look forward to see you this fall.
● The Chipley Farmers Market is preparing for the fall season. With the support of the growers and other members of the community, this year’s fall market will be great. The fall season will open on Tuesday, October 21st from 12:00 to 5:00 pm. The Market will be open every Tuesday and Thursday from 12:00 to 5:00 as long as we have good participation from vendors and the community. If you have any questions or need additional information please contact Collin Adcock, at the Washington County Extension Office (850) 638-6180. Thank you for supporting the Chipley Farmers Market. I look forward to see you this fall.
Every Wednesday Night
● Lovedale Baptist Church would like to invite all children ages 2 though 18 years of age to join them every Wednesday night for an adventurous evening in AWANA. AWANA is a kids’ ministry that uses the technique of fun to teach that God is real, He loves them and He has expressed that love through His Son, Jesus Christ. All of the AWANA Club activities work toward the goal of giving boys and girls the chance to know, love and serve God. Churches have used AWANA’s proven tools to extend God’s love to kids and impact their communities since 1950. So join us each Wednesday to be a part of that week’s adventure. Lovedale serves supper at 5:30PM and AWANA club activities are from 6:00 - 7:30PM. Transportation is available for those needing a ride. For more information, call Lovedale Baptist Church at (850) 592-5415, Pastor Eric Durham at (850) 209-7116 or Jeanette Deese, AWANA Director at (850) 554-6908.
● Lovedale Baptist Church would like to invite all children ages 2 though 18 years of age to join them every Wednesday night for an adventurous evening in AWANA. AWANA is a kids’ ministry that uses the technique of fun to teach that God is real, He loves them and He has expressed that love through His Son, Jesus Christ. All of the AWANA Club activities work toward the goal of giving boys and girls the chance to know, love and serve God. Churches have used AWANA’s proven tools to extend God’s love to kids and impact their communities since 1950. So join us each Wednesday to be a part of that week’s adventure. Lovedale serves supper at 5:30PM and AWANA club activities are from 6:00 - 7:30PM. Transportation is available for those needing a ride. For more information, call Lovedale Baptist Church at (850) 592-5415, Pastor Eric Durham at (850) 209-7116 or Jeanette Deese, AWANA Director at (850) 554-6908.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
● Baptist College of Graceville’s Male Choral in Concert at Bethlehem Baptist Church in Kynesville, FL. Located at 2300 Bethlehem Road. Refreshments to follow concert. For more information call Pastor Sharkey at 579-9940.
● Tickets go on sale for the Chipola College Theater dramatic comedy, "Bus Stop," which opens a four-day run, Nov. 6. For ticket information, call 850-718-2220.
● Baptist College of Graceville’s Male Choral in Concert at Bethlehem Baptist Church in Kynesville, FL. Located at 2300 Bethlehem Road. Refreshments to follow concert. For more information call Pastor Sharkey at 579-9940.
● Tickets go on sale for the Chipola College Theater dramatic comedy, "Bus Stop," which opens a four-day run, Nov. 6. For ticket information, call 850-718-2220.
Friday, October 24, 2008
● 16th Annual Altrusa Golf Tournament– Indian Springs Golf Course. 12:00 pm Registration, Lunch Provided 1:00 pm Shotgun Start Four person scramble, Modified handicap, 18 holes $65.00 per person Putting contest $5.00 Entry Fee (Includes greens fee, golf cart, and lunch) Mulligans $5.00. Hole–in–One Prizes provided by Bob Pforte Dodge: New 2008 Ram 1500 Dodge Truck, Tailor-made Burner Driver and Burner, Fairway Woods (3 and 5) Tour Academy, Tailor-made Tour Burner Irons (3–PW) and Smoke Rac Wedges (56 and 60 Degree). $100 Savings Bond provided by Peoples First Community Bank. Prizes for top 3 teams– Closest to the pin, longest drive, putting contest. Raffle Tickets $5.00 each sold at Registration of Tournament (to be drawn at the end of tournament) and Door Prizes. Prizes based on minimum of 40 players. Questions – Call Jay James 526–3197/ 209–3068 or Kathy Milton 482–7788/ 209–8013 or Indian Springs Golf Course Pro Shop 482–8787.
● 16th Annual Altrusa Golf Tournament– Indian Springs Golf Course. 12:00 pm Registration, Lunch Provided 1:00 pm Shotgun Start Four person scramble, Modified handicap, 18 holes $65.00 per person Putting contest $5.00 Entry Fee (Includes greens fee, golf cart, and lunch) Mulligans $5.00. Hole–in–One Prizes provided by Bob Pforte Dodge: New 2008 Ram 1500 Dodge Truck, Tailor-made Burner Driver and Burner, Fairway Woods (3 and 5) Tour Academy, Tailor-made Tour Burner Irons (3–PW) and Smoke Rac Wedges (56 and 60 Degree). $100 Savings Bond provided by Peoples First Community Bank. Prizes for top 3 teams– Closest to the pin, longest drive, putting contest. Raffle Tickets $5.00 each sold at Registration of Tournament (to be drawn at the end of tournament) and Door Prizes. Prizes based on minimum of 40 players. Questions – Call Jay James 526–3197/ 209–3068 or Kathy Milton 482–7788/ 209–8013 or Indian Springs Golf Course Pro Shop 482–8787.
Saturday, October 25, 2008
● The 30th Annual Sunland Fall Festival will be held Saturday, October 25, 2008. The Festival will be held at the Environmental Park, at Sunland Marianna, Florida. The activities will begin with the parade at 9:00 a.m. (CDT) and the day will conclude around 3:00 p.m. The Sunland Fall Festival continues to be one of Sunland’s most rewarding and prosperous events. Those involved in the parade, the entertainment and the vendors have supported Sunland’s efforts to host the fall festival for many years. The residents and employees look forward to this event each year and joining together with their family and friends, former residents, volunteers and the general public for a day of fun, shopping at the booths, good food and entertainment. For general information concerning the Fall Festival, reserving booths for crafts or food concessions contact Dawn Glover at (850) 482–9373; Ruthie Moore or Russell Register for entertainment at (850)482–9371; or Karen Hendrickson for parade at (850) 482–9386.
● Angels Gate Ranch Open House- Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and "Ranch-Hand" Brunch from 9am-2pm. Ribbon Cutting at 9:30, Brunch at 11. There will be an equine assisted learning demonstration, an explanation of our life skills program, meet our animals petting area, and silent auction starting at noon. Youth group and ministry leaders are encouraged to come! Please R.S.V.P. by phone or email on or before Saturday, October 18. angelsgateranch@ymail.com or 526-3417. Located at 2000 Sexton Rd, Marianna, FL 32448.
● Book Signing at the Jackson County Public Library from 10am-2pm. Special guest authors include: Mr. Dale Cox, Mr. M.C. Bechum, Mrs. Dorothy Seals, Mrs. Natalie Johnson, Mr. and Mrs. Doug Robbins.
● The 30th Annual Sunland Fall Festival will be held Saturday, October 25, 2008. The Festival will be held at the Environmental Park, at Sunland Marianna, Florida. The activities will begin with the parade at 9:00 a.m. (CDT) and the day will conclude around 3:00 p.m. The Sunland Fall Festival continues to be one of Sunland’s most rewarding and prosperous events. Those involved in the parade, the entertainment and the vendors have supported Sunland’s efforts to host the fall festival for many years. The residents and employees look forward to this event each year and joining together with their family and friends, former residents, volunteers and the general public for a day of fun, shopping at the booths, good food and entertainment. For general information concerning the Fall Festival, reserving booths for crafts or food concessions contact Dawn Glover at (850) 482–9373; Ruthie Moore or Russell Register for entertainment at (850)482–9371; or Karen Hendrickson for parade at (850) 482–9386.
● Angels Gate Ranch Open House- Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and "Ranch-Hand" Brunch from 9am-2pm. Ribbon Cutting at 9:30, Brunch at 11. There will be an equine assisted learning demonstration, an explanation of our life skills program, meet our animals petting area, and silent auction starting at noon. Youth group and ministry leaders are encouraged to come! Please R.S.V.P. by phone or email on or before Saturday, October 18. angelsgateranch@ymail.com or 526-3417. Located at 2000 Sexton Rd, Marianna, FL 32448.
● Book Signing at the Jackson County Public Library from 10am-2pm. Special guest authors include: Mr. Dale Cox, Mr. M.C. Bechum, Mrs. Dorothy Seals, Mrs. Natalie Johnson, Mr. and Mrs. Doug Robbins.
Sunday, October 26, 2008
● The Chipola College Cheer Fest set for Oct. 26 has been rescheduled to Feb. 8, 2009. Entry forms are available at www.chipola.edu under "Athletics," "Cheerleaders" and "Cheer Fest." Interested coaches should contact DeFelix at 850-718-2322 or e-mail: defelixg@chipola.edu.
● St. Matthew M.B. Church in Cottondale will be having our Annual Harvest Day Program at 11am. Our guest will be Rev. Wallace Godwin and congregation from Evergreen M.B. Church in Marianna, Florida. You are welcome to come and have a glorious time in the name of the Lord. For more information please contact (850)352-3385 Rev. David D. Greene (Pastor).
● Community Fall Carnival & Trunk-A-Treat – Bethlehem Baptist Church 2300 Bethlehem Road (Kynesville Community) starting at 5PM. Everyone is invited to attend! Special music by Craig Edwards of Panama City, FL and One Way Student Ministries from Sneads Assembly of God Church (bring your lawn chair) There will be chili and hotdogs, games, prizes and lots of candy! Everything is free. Come and enjoy Christian fellowship! For more information call 579-9999 or 579-9940.
● The Chipola College Cheer Fest set for Oct. 26 has been rescheduled to Feb. 8, 2009. Entry forms are available at www.chipola.edu under "Athletics," "Cheerleaders" and "Cheer Fest." Interested coaches should contact DeFelix at 850-718-2322 or e-mail: defelixg@chipola.edu.
● St. Matthew M.B. Church in Cottondale will be having our Annual Harvest Day Program at 11am. Our guest will be Rev. Wallace Godwin and congregation from Evergreen M.B. Church in Marianna, Florida. You are welcome to come and have a glorious time in the name of the Lord. For more information please contact (850)352-3385 Rev. David D. Greene (Pastor).
● Community Fall Carnival & Trunk-A-Treat – Bethlehem Baptist Church 2300 Bethlehem Road (Kynesville Community) starting at 5PM. Everyone is invited to attend! Special music by Craig Edwards of Panama City, FL and One Way Student Ministries from Sneads Assembly of God Church (bring your lawn chair) There will be chili and hotdogs, games, prizes and lots of candy! Everything is free. Come and enjoy Christian fellowship! For more information call 579-9999 or 579-9940.
Monday- Thursday, October 27-30, 2008
● Chipola College Public Service will hold a 16-hour Firearms Familiarization course at the Reddoch Firing Range on the Blue Springs Highway. Successful completion of the course may be used in applying for a Concealed Weapons Permit. The 16-hour course will meet from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Registration and payment of the $60 fee is due by the first class meeting. Registration forms are available at the front desk of the Public Service Building. For information, call Doris Williams at (850) 718-2394 or e-mail williamsd@chipola.edu.
● Chipola College Public Service will hold a 16-hour Firearms Familiarization course at the Reddoch Firing Range on the Blue Springs Highway. Successful completion of the course may be used in applying for a Concealed Weapons Permit. The 16-hour course will meet from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Registration and payment of the $60 fee is due by the first class meeting. Registration forms are available at the front desk of the Public Service Building. For information, call Doris Williams at (850) 718-2394 or e-mail williamsd@chipola.edu.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
● Marianna Lions Regular Meeting – Meeting will be held at 12 noon at Tony’s. Program: Maria Johnson, Artist. Maria is the creator of the Marianna Lions Commemorative Pins.
● Special Guest Speaker Margaret Ziegeler will be sharing the word of God, at our Women’s meeting 6:00pm at Emmanuel Holiness Church, 3502 Sandridge Church Rd. Sneads. Door prizes, refreshment and fellowship will follow. All Ladies are invited to a Blessed evening. Call 593-9100.
● Marianna Lions Regular Meeting – Meeting will be held at 12 noon at Tony’s. Program: Maria Johnson, Artist. Maria is the creator of the Marianna Lions Commemorative Pins.
● Special Guest Speaker Margaret Ziegeler will be sharing the word of God, at our Women’s meeting 6:00pm at Emmanuel Holiness Church, 3502 Sandridge Church Rd. Sneads. Door prizes, refreshment and fellowship will follow. All Ladies are invited to a Blessed evening. Call 593-9100.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
● Art Auction & Wine Tasting- Located at the Historic Russ House, 4318 Lafayette St in Marianna. 5:00pm-6:15pm Silent Auction & Reception. 6:15pm Live Auction. Artwork to be auctioned will be on exhibit at the Russ House until the day of the auction. Proceeds benefit the Russ House Endorsement Fund. $30 individual/$50 couple. Order now only 80 tickets available. Call the Chamber at 482-8060 to get your tickets.
● Art Auction & Wine Tasting- Located at the Historic Russ House, 4318 Lafayette St in Marianna. 5:00pm-6:15pm Silent Auction & Reception. 6:15pm Live Auction. Artwork to be auctioned will be on exhibit at the Russ House until the day of the auction. Proceeds benefit the Russ House Endorsement Fund. $30 individual/$50 couple. Order now only 80 tickets available. Call the Chamber at 482-8060 to get your tickets.
Thursday–Saturday, October 30–November 1, 2008
● Reality Zone: The Rude Awakening– It is the year 2012. Good jobs are scarce. Gas has reached an average of $8.00 a gallon. The church in America has become apathetic. People have become self–absorbed. It is not that America is no longer spiritual, but that she isn’t really sure Who that God really is. Suddenly and unexpectedly, in the twinkling of an eye the world changed. Are you daring enough to embark on an adventure that could make you question everything you believe in? Are you up for the journey? To book group reservations please call (850) 209–8956 or Chipola Baptist Association at (850) 526–4050. Walk–ins welcome. From 6:00pm to 9:00pm at the Blue Springs Baptist Camp in Marianna.
● Reality Zone: The Rude Awakening– It is the year 2012. Good jobs are scarce. Gas has reached an average of $8.00 a gallon. The church in America has become apathetic. People have become self–absorbed. It is not that America is no longer spiritual, but that she isn’t really sure Who that God really is. Suddenly and unexpectedly, in the twinkling of an eye the world changed. Are you daring enough to embark on an adventure that could make you question everything you believe in? Are you up for the journey? To book group reservations please call (850) 209–8956 or Chipola Baptist Association at (850) 526–4050. Walk–ins welcome. From 6:00pm to 9:00pm at the Blue Springs Baptist Camp in Marianna.
Friday, October 31, 2008
● Cottondale School Reunion – Appetizers – Meet & Greet starts at 5:30PM, dinner starts at 6:30PM. Turkey, Home Made Dressing, Sweet Peas, Turnips with fresh pork, Cranberry Sauce, Sweet Potato Casserole, Bread, Banana Pudding, Tea, & Coffee. Due to Limited Seating, you must RSVP by October 15th. 1st 160 PEOPLE to reply will get to attend 11–31–08. This reminder is for the people that have not made their reservations. I need the year you graduated so I can print in on your nametags. For more information please contact Peggy Yon Mills at pmills@yumasol.com or at home (850) 579–4482. We will have name tags made by the next meeting. SOME PEOPLE DID NOT SIGN IN – SEND NAME INFORMATION (Females –Include Maiden and Married Name) CHS Students send CLASS YEAR & SPOUSE’S NAME. A hornet logo will be placed under first name. The name tags will be placed in alphabetical order on a table for you to pick up at the October reunion. You will leave name tags on the same table so you will have them at the next reunion.
● Haunted House Adventure at Compass Lake in the Hills Volunteer Fire Department from 6-8pm. Prizes & snacks. Under 12. For more information call 579-4303.
● Welcome Assembly of God Church will be holding their Light the Night for Jesus at 6:30pm. Join them for an evening of fun for the entire family! Everything is free! Hot dogs, chili, chips, desserts, cold drinks, hot chocolate, coffee, cotton candy, snow cones, and a marshmallow roast. There will be games for the children, moon walk, duck pond, hay scrabble, ring toss, dunking booth, dart game w/ balloons, bean bag toss, basketball toss, etc. You will be greatly blessed by the Southern Gospel singing by the Covenant Quartet. And, you will be amazed at the creativity and imagination as you visit each truck that has been decorated for our Light the Night for Jesus. As the children visit each decorated truck they will receive candy treats for their treat bags. There will also be a hay ride! For more information call 592-5077. The church is located at 6794 Messer Road in the Dellwood Community.
● Cottondale School Reunion – Appetizers – Meet & Greet starts at 5:30PM, dinner starts at 6:30PM. Turkey, Home Made Dressing, Sweet Peas, Turnips with fresh pork, Cranberry Sauce, Sweet Potato Casserole, Bread, Banana Pudding, Tea, & Coffee. Due to Limited Seating, you must RSVP by October 15th. 1st 160 PEOPLE to reply will get to attend 11–31–08. This reminder is for the people that have not made their reservations. I need the year you graduated so I can print in on your nametags. For more information please contact Peggy Yon Mills at pmills@yumasol.com or at home (850) 579–4482. We will have name tags made by the next meeting. SOME PEOPLE DID NOT SIGN IN – SEND NAME INFORMATION (Females –Include Maiden and Married Name) CHS Students send CLASS YEAR & SPOUSE’S NAME. A hornet logo will be placed under first name. The name tags will be placed in alphabetical order on a table for you to pick up at the October reunion. You will leave name tags on the same table so you will have them at the next reunion.
● Haunted House Adventure at Compass Lake in the Hills Volunteer Fire Department from 6-8pm. Prizes & snacks. Under 12. For more information call 579-4303.
● Welcome Assembly of God Church will be holding their Light the Night for Jesus at 6:30pm. Join them for an evening of fun for the entire family! Everything is free! Hot dogs, chili, chips, desserts, cold drinks, hot chocolate, coffee, cotton candy, snow cones, and a marshmallow roast. There will be games for the children, moon walk, duck pond, hay scrabble, ring toss, dunking booth, dart game w/ balloons, bean bag toss, basketball toss, etc. You will be greatly blessed by the Southern Gospel singing by the Covenant Quartet. And, you will be amazed at the creativity and imagination as you visit each truck that has been decorated for our Light the Night for Jesus. As the children visit each decorated truck they will receive candy treats for their treat bags. There will also be a hay ride! For more information call 592-5077. The church is located at 6794 Messer Road in the Dellwood Community.
Saturday, November 1, 2008
● Campbellton School Reunion will be at the First Baptist Church in Campbellton. Registration and social time will be from 9–10 a.m. Riley Whitaker will be the guest speaker. Please bring a covered dish to share at the luncheon. There will be door prizes, recognition of classes, and other fun things happening. Please bring photos from the school years. Please help notify former members. For other information you may contact Tommy Whiddon at 850–849–1654 or Mose Barron at 850–263–6016.
● 8th Annual Rahal–Miller Chevrolet Buick–Cadillac Nissan Gospel Sing– Customer Appreciation. 6:30 pm at Marianna High School Auditorium on Caverns Road. Admission is free! Performers include Brian Free and Assurance,; Bibletones from Gulfport, Mississippi; Basford Brothers from Marianna, Florida; and The Thompsons from Marianna, Florida.
Sunday–Thursday, November 2–13, 2008
● Watercolor paintings by Michele Tabor Kimbrough –Sunday Afternoon with the Arts, Chipola College – Art Center, College St., Marianna, FL. Meet the Artists Nov 2, 1–5 pm.
● Campbellton School Reunion will be at the First Baptist Church in Campbellton. Registration and social time will be from 9–10 a.m. Riley Whitaker will be the guest speaker. Please bring a covered dish to share at the luncheon. There will be door prizes, recognition of classes, and other fun things happening. Please bring photos from the school years. Please help notify former members. For other information you may contact Tommy Whiddon at 850–849–1654 or Mose Barron at 850–263–6016.
● 8th Annual Rahal–Miller Chevrolet Buick–Cadillac Nissan Gospel Sing– Customer Appreciation. 6:30 pm at Marianna High School Auditorium on Caverns Road. Admission is free! Performers include Brian Free and Assurance,; Bibletones from Gulfport, Mississippi; Basford Brothers from Marianna, Florida; and The Thompsons from Marianna, Florida.
Sunday–Thursday, November 2–13, 2008
● Watercolor paintings by Michele Tabor Kimbrough –Sunday Afternoon with the Arts, Chipola College – Art Center, College St., Marianna, FL. Meet the Artists Nov 2, 1–5 pm.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
● Lovedale Baptist Church Homecoming at 10:30 am. Speaker will be Dr. Robin Jumper, former interim pastor of Lovedale. All are welcome to come and enjoy a blessing with worship, food and fellowship. Dinner on the grounds immediately following service. For more information call 592–5415 or 209–7116.
● Eastside Baptist Church in Marianna, Florida will present songwriter/worship leader Jeff Slaughter in concert at 6:00 p.m. CST. Jeff has written the music for Lifeway Vacation Bible School since 1997. While in Nashville, Jeff has had the opportunity to be involved in the country music scene as well. He has toured with artists such as Kenny, Rogers, Suzy Bogguss, Loretta Lynn and Conway Twitty. He has also worked with Faith Hill, Bryan White, John Berry and Joe Diffie. Since 1992, he has been a freelance writer and has had songs recorded by artists such as Point of Grace, Steve Green, Truth, Al Denson, the Imperials and others. Eastside is located at 4785 Highway 90 East in Marianna. Call 526–2004 for more information.
● Lovedale Baptist Church Homecoming at 10:30 am. Speaker will be Dr. Robin Jumper, former interim pastor of Lovedale. All are welcome to come and enjoy a blessing with worship, food and fellowship. Dinner on the grounds immediately following service. For more information call 592–5415 or 209–7116.
● Eastside Baptist Church in Marianna, Florida will present songwriter/worship leader Jeff Slaughter in concert at 6:00 p.m. CST. Jeff has written the music for Lifeway Vacation Bible School since 1997. While in Nashville, Jeff has had the opportunity to be involved in the country music scene as well. He has toured with artists such as Kenny, Rogers, Suzy Bogguss, Loretta Lynn and Conway Twitty. He has also worked with Faith Hill, Bryan White, John Berry and Joe Diffie. Since 1992, he has been a freelance writer and has had songs recorded by artists such as Point of Grace, Steve Green, Truth, Al Denson, the Imperials and others. Eastside is located at 4785 Highway 90 East in Marianna. Call 526–2004 for more information.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
● Sharon Cox Property Appraiser 4th Annual "Appreciation BBQ"- "Famous Amos Morris" Boston Butt BBQ and trimmings along with entertainment from The Original Artists for your enjoyment located at the Fairgrounds in the Old AG Building, Hwy 90 West at 6:00pm. FREE!
Friday-Saturday, November 7-8, 2008
● 7th Annual Veterans Day Poker Run hosted by Pony Soldier and Cookie. FREE Tent/RV Camping, Live Band Friday and Saturday Nights, Food and Vendors, Saturday Poker Run starts and ends at The River Lounge Hwy 92, Clayhatchee, AL. FBO: 1200 hrs/ LBI 1700 hrs. Best/worst hand- Door Prizes, 50/50 Drawing. All proceeds support ANG Family Readiness Program. $10 per hand Free Run Patch. For more information call Pony at 334-692-9933.
● Sharon Cox Property Appraiser 4th Annual "Appreciation BBQ"- "Famous Amos Morris" Boston Butt BBQ and trimmings along with entertainment from The Original Artists for your enjoyment located at the Fairgrounds in the Old AG Building, Hwy 90 West at 6:00pm. FREE!
Friday-Saturday, November 7-8, 2008
● 7th Annual Veterans Day Poker Run hosted by Pony Soldier and Cookie. FREE Tent/RV Camping, Live Band Friday and Saturday Nights, Food and Vendors, Saturday Poker Run starts and ends at The River Lounge Hwy 92, Clayhatchee, AL. FBO: 1200 hrs/ LBI 1700 hrs. Best/worst hand- Door Prizes, 50/50 Drawing. All proceeds support ANG Family Readiness Program. $10 per hand Free Run Patch. For more information call Pony at 334-692-9933.
Monday, November 10, 2008
● VETERANS DAY PARADE – Hosted by the Ted Walt VFW Post 12046, Marianna, Florida. VFW Post #12046 and Ladies Auxiliary of Marianna will host a parade honoring veterans past and present, Line up will be at 2PM on Pearl Street. No Entry Fee to participate. Please call 526-1880 before November 3rd for sign up information.
● VETERANS DAY PARADE – Hosted by the Ted Walt VFW Post 12046, Marianna, Florida. VFW Post #12046 and Ladies Auxiliary of Marianna will host a parade honoring veterans past and present, Line up will be at 2PM on Pearl Street. No Entry Fee to participate. Please call 526-1880 before November 3rd for sign up information.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
● Jackson County Auction & Smoked Steak Dinner will be held at Jackson County Agricultural Conference Center, 2741 Pennsylvania Avenue, Marianna, FL. Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door, $5 for Auction only. Smoked Steak Dinner and Silent Auction @ 5:00pm. (Bidding on Silent Auction items can begin at 3:00pm) Live Auction @ 6:30pm. Volunteers Needed. Donated Items Accepted. For more information call Leslie Fuqua 482–2187. Tickets can be purchased at the Thrift store, Melvin Eng., George’s Glass Tinting, Jackson County Vault & Monument, or the Habitat Office.
● Jackson County Auction & Smoked Steak Dinner will be held at Jackson County Agricultural Conference Center, 2741 Pennsylvania Avenue, Marianna, FL. Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door, $5 for Auction only. Smoked Steak Dinner and Silent Auction @ 5:00pm. (Bidding on Silent Auction items can begin at 3:00pm) Live Auction @ 6:30pm. Volunteers Needed. Donated Items Accepted. For more information call Leslie Fuqua 482–2187. Tickets can be purchased at the Thrift store, Melvin Eng., George’s Glass Tinting, Jackson County Vault & Monument, or the Habitat Office.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
● Malone Pecan Festival– Friday the 14th of November there will be a pecan pie contest; all entries will need to be at the Malone Town Hall before 12, so they can be judged. Saturday morning there will be a pecan pancake breakfast starting at 6:00 and the parade will start at ten. A live auction will be at 1. Entertainment will be the Bryan Brothers from Bascom and BlueGrass Pure & Simple with Travis Perry from Dothan. The line up will be at the Malone High School. There will also be an art contest. Parade contacts: Dorothy Mathis 569–2986, or Sallie Gibson 569–2980 or 569–2771. There is no fee for parade entries. Booth contacts: Flora or Ken Beard 569–5644. Booth’s with electricity will be $35.00, without $30.00. Pecan pies will be for sale. For fun there will be pony rides and slides for the kids. They will have a pecan house owned by Gayle Hart and her son Jessie. They buy and sell pecans. Come out and enjoy the day!! 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners for best float will receive trophies. Pecan Festival sponsored by Optimist Club of Malone and JCDC of Marianna.
● Campbellton Senior Citizens are reminded to call in to Campbellton Town Hall and get on the list for the Thanksgiving Luncheon on November 15--this is an event which the Town of Campbellton does once a year for the seniors.
● Malone Pecan Festival– Friday the 14th of November there will be a pecan pie contest; all entries will need to be at the Malone Town Hall before 12, so they can be judged. Saturday morning there will be a pecan pancake breakfast starting at 6:00 and the parade will start at ten. A live auction will be at 1. Entertainment will be the Bryan Brothers from Bascom and BlueGrass Pure & Simple with Travis Perry from Dothan. The line up will be at the Malone High School. There will also be an art contest. Parade contacts: Dorothy Mathis 569–2986, or Sallie Gibson 569–2980 or 569–2771. There is no fee for parade entries. Booth contacts: Flora or Ken Beard 569–5644. Booth’s with electricity will be $35.00, without $30.00. Pecan pies will be for sale. For fun there will be pony rides and slides for the kids. They will have a pecan house owned by Gayle Hart and her son Jessie. They buy and sell pecans. Come out and enjoy the day!! 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners for best float will receive trophies. Pecan Festival sponsored by Optimist Club of Malone and JCDC of Marianna.
● Campbellton Senior Citizens are reminded to call in to Campbellton Town Hall and get on the list for the Thanksgiving Luncheon on November 15--this is an event which the Town of Campbellton does once a year for the seniors.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
● Fine Arts Series presents FSU Baroque Ensemble- Cello, Violin, and Flute, with Ryan A. Kasten on Harpsichord. 4:00pm at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Marianna. Meet the Artists Reception follows this concert. Donations accepted for the Fine Arts Series.
● Fine Arts Series presents FSU Baroque Ensemble- Cello, Violin, and Flute, with Ryan A. Kasten on Harpsichord. 4:00pm at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Marianna. Meet the Artists Reception follows this concert. Donations accepted for the Fine Arts Series.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
● Help the March of Dimes achieve their mission to give babies the chance of a happy, healthy life by attending an elegant cocktail reception to celebrate the Best of Tallahassee winners, wine tasting, music, and a live and silent auction. 6 PM: A variety of wine classes. 7PM: The Grand Wine Tasting Event. At the University Center Club, Florida State University. Tickets are $50 in advance and $75 at the door. For more information contact Eventions at 850–222–0200.
● Help the March of Dimes achieve their mission to give babies the chance of a happy, healthy life by attending an elegant cocktail reception to celebrate the Best of Tallahassee winners, wine tasting, music, and a live and silent auction. 6 PM: A variety of wine classes. 7PM: The Grand Wine Tasting Event. At the University Center Club, Florida State University. Tickets are $50 in advance and $75 at the door. For more information contact Eventions at 850–222–0200.
Monday, December 1, 2008
● Campbellton Senior Citizens meeting is scheduled at 6 p.m. in the Community Center. Ben Graves from Promised Land Farms will present an informative program on trees. Also, this will be a Christmas Luncheon. Each person is asked to bring a small gift under $10 for exchange along with a covered dish for the evening meal. For other information, call 263-8145.
● Campbellton Senior Citizens meeting is scheduled at 6 p.m. in the Community Center. Ben Graves from Promised Land Farms will present an informative program on trees. Also, this will be a Christmas Luncheon. Each person is asked to bring a small gift under $10 for exchange along with a covered dish for the evening meal. For other information, call 263-8145.
Wednesday – Sunday, December 3–7, 2008
● Senior Group Tours – Christmas Tour, Pigeon Forge TN. Biltmore Estate, Christmas Play at the Barter Theatre, VA. For more information contact; Merita Stanley (850) 482–4799.
● Senior Group Tours – Christmas Tour, Pigeon Forge TN. Biltmore Estate, Christmas Play at the Barter Theatre, VA. For more information contact; Merita Stanley (850) 482–4799.
Friday & Saturday, December 19–20, 2008
● Senior Group Tours – Enjoy Bellingrath Gardens & Home with Hundred’s of Christmas lights, Foley, Alabama & Lambert’s Restaurant home of the throw rolls. For more information contact; Merita Stanley (850) 482–4799.
● Senior Group Tours – Enjoy Bellingrath Gardens & Home with Hundred’s of Christmas lights, Foley, Alabama & Lambert’s Restaurant home of the throw rolls. For more information contact; Merita Stanley (850) 482–4799.
Friday, October 17, 2008
Last Suspect Arrested in Fatal Shooting on Blue Springs Road
UPDATE: OCTOBER 20, 2008
The last of three suspects in Thursday's shooting death of a man on Blue Springs Road has been taken into custody.
Adam Shay Bolds was arrested Monday afternoon on U.S. Highway 84 East of Dothan, Alabama. Jackson County Sheriff's Officers joined with officers from Houston County, Alabama, to take Bolds into custody during a traffic stop. He had been the subject of a massive five day manhunt throughout the area.
Here is Friday's statement from the Jackson County Sheriff's Department regarding the fatal shooting Thursday evening on Blue Springs Road:
On October 16, 2008, at approximately 4:56 p.m., the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call from the residence located at 6031 Blue Springs Road in Marianna, Fl. The caller advised that a subject had been shot at this location. Upon arrival, Officers found Thadius Rhian Garrett lying under the carport suffering from several gunshot wounds. CPR was initiated until EMS personnel arrived at the scene and transported Garrett to Jackson Hospital where he was pronounced dead at approximately 6:06 p.m.
Witnesses at the scene stated that three white males, later identified as Adam Shay Bolds, James Donavon Cook III and James Eugene Hardy, arrived at the residence in a white SUV style vehicle. The driver, Adam Bolds, exited the vehicle and became involved in a brief altercation with Garrett. During the altercation Bolds produced a handgun and fired several shots at Garrett. The three suspects then fled eastbound on Blue Springs Road towards Dellwood.
Deputies later discovered Hardy walking down Cloud Road where he was taken into custody. Witnesses stated that another subject, Cook, had fled into the woods on Cloud Road. Canine units from Apalachee Correctional and Jackson Correctional Institutions were summoned to the area and began tracking Cook. Witnesses observed Cook get into a small white truck and leave the area. Cook was later located in Calhoun County where he was taken into custody.
James Hardy and James Cook have both been charged with principle to murder in the first degree. Adam Bolds has been arrested on an open count of murder.
Assisting with the investigation were the Apalachee Correctional Institution, Jackson Correctional Institution, Florida Highway Patrol, Florida Wildlife Commission, Marianna Police Department, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, US Marshal Service and the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office.
The last of three suspects in Thursday's shooting death of a man on Blue Springs Road has been taken into custody.
Adam Shay Bolds was arrested Monday afternoon on U.S. Highway 84 East of Dothan, Alabama. Jackson County Sheriff's Officers joined with officers from Houston County, Alabama, to take Bolds into custody during a traffic stop. He had been the subject of a massive five day manhunt throughout the area.
Here is Friday's statement from the Jackson County Sheriff's Department regarding the fatal shooting Thursday evening on Blue Springs Road:
On October 16, 2008, at approximately 4:56 p.m., the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call from the residence located at 6031 Blue Springs Road in Marianna, Fl. The caller advised that a subject had been shot at this location. Upon arrival, Officers found Thadius Rhian Garrett lying under the carport suffering from several gunshot wounds. CPR was initiated until EMS personnel arrived at the scene and transported Garrett to Jackson Hospital where he was pronounced dead at approximately 6:06 p.m.
Witnesses at the scene stated that three white males, later identified as Adam Shay Bolds, James Donavon Cook III and James Eugene Hardy, arrived at the residence in a white SUV style vehicle. The driver, Adam Bolds, exited the vehicle and became involved in a brief altercation with Garrett. During the altercation Bolds produced a handgun and fired several shots at Garrett. The three suspects then fled eastbound on Blue Springs Road towards Dellwood.
Deputies later discovered Hardy walking down Cloud Road where he was taken into custody. Witnesses stated that another subject, Cook, had fled into the woods on Cloud Road. Canine units from Apalachee Correctional and Jackson Correctional Institutions were summoned to the area and began tracking Cook. Witnesses observed Cook get into a small white truck and leave the area. Cook was later located in Calhoun County where he was taken into custody.
James Hardy and James Cook have both been charged with principle to murder in the first degree. Adam Bolds has been arrested on an open count of murder.
Assisting with the investigation were the Apalachee Correctional Institution, Jackson Correctional Institution, Florida Highway Patrol, Florida Wildlife Commission, Marianna Police Department, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, US Marshal Service and the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Alicia Hatcher to Vie for Miss National Peanut Festival Title
10/16/08
Alicia Hatcher, Miss Jackson County 2008-2009 will vie for the title of Miss National Peanut Festival this weekend at the Dothan Civic Center.
A sophomore at Chipola College, Alicia is a member of Phi Theta Kappa where she serves as President. She also serves as Student Ambassador President, Honors Club President, is an SGA sophomore class senator, Parliamentarian for the Chipola College Governance Council, member of Mu Alpha Theta, and the Pre-med Society.
Alicia is one of twenty students internationally to be named a 2008 Guistewhite Scholar through Phi Theta Kappa. Other awards and honors she has received include 2008 Outstanding Phi Theta Kappa Officer, 1st Team All-Florida Academic Team, 3rd Team All-USA Today Academic Team, Chipola College Outstanding SGA Member, and the 2007 Chipola College Coca-Cola Scholar.
Alicia is the nineteen year old daughter of Chuck and Patte Hatcher. She has one sister, India. She is the granddaughter of Jerre and Christine Nettles of Marianna, and the late Peggy B. Nettles, Pat Odom and the late Jim Odom of Dellwood, Woodrow and Linda Hatcher of Marianna, FL and Chuck and Eileen Brown of North Haven, CT.
Alicia Hatcher, Miss Jackson County 2008-2009 will vie for the title of Miss National Peanut Festival this weekend at the Dothan Civic Center.
A sophomore at Chipola College, Alicia is a member of Phi Theta Kappa where she serves as President. She also serves as Student Ambassador President, Honors Club President, is an SGA sophomore class senator, Parliamentarian for the Chipola College Governance Council, member of Mu Alpha Theta, and the Pre-med Society.
Alicia is one of twenty students internationally to be named a 2008 Guistewhite Scholar through Phi Theta Kappa. Other awards and honors she has received include 2008 Outstanding Phi Theta Kappa Officer, 1st Team All-Florida Academic Team, 3rd Team All-USA Today Academic Team, Chipola College Outstanding SGA Member, and the 2007 Chipola College Coca-Cola Scholar.
Alicia is the nineteen year old daughter of Chuck and Patte Hatcher. She has one sister, India. She is the granddaughter of Jerre and Christine Nettles of Marianna, and the late Peggy B. Nettles, Pat Odom and the late Jim Odom of Dellwood, Woodrow and Linda Hatcher of Marianna, FL and Chuck and Eileen Brown of North Haven, CT.
Louis Roberts Sr. Given Special Flags By Optimists and VFW Organizations
By Sid Riley
10/16/08
During the political rally and peanut boil hosted by his son Lou Roberts last Friday morning, the local Optimists Club and local VFW post made a special presentation to Louis Roberts, Sr. in recognition of his service to our nation during WW II and the Korean War.
Mr. Roberts served in the Sea Bees of the U.S. Navy during WW II, and then enlisted in the Marine Corps to serve during the Korean War. He and fellow marine Tommy Grainger served in the same conflicts in Korea, and took part in one of the most difficult and brutal battles of that conflict. In -40 degree temperatures and outnumbered 10 to 1 by 120,000 Chinese and North Korean soldiers, their unit which had become isolated from support managed over a difficult 14 day period to fight their way out of the mountains to reach the sea and safety. The survivors of that conflict have been designated "The Chosen Few", with a monument placed in Washington D.C. in their honor.
Fellow veterans had noticed that the Marine Unit Flag flown at Mr. Roberts home had become weather worn and needed replacement. At this peanut boil for his son, Louis was presented a new Marine Unit Flag and a new American Flag by representatives of the Optimists and the VFW.
10/16/08
During the political rally and peanut boil hosted by his son Lou Roberts last Friday morning, the local Optimists Club and local VFW post made a special presentation to Louis Roberts, Sr. in recognition of his service to our nation during WW II and the Korean War.
Mr. Roberts served in the Sea Bees of the U.S. Navy during WW II, and then enlisted in the Marine Corps to serve during the Korean War. He and fellow marine Tommy Grainger served in the same conflicts in Korea, and took part in one of the most difficult and brutal battles of that conflict. In -40 degree temperatures and outnumbered 10 to 1 by 120,000 Chinese and North Korean soldiers, their unit which had become isolated from support managed over a difficult 14 day period to fight their way out of the mountains to reach the sea and safety. The survivors of that conflict have been designated "The Chosen Few", with a monument placed in Washington D.C. in their honor.
Fellow veterans had noticed that the Marine Unit Flag flown at Mr. Roberts home had become weather worn and needed replacement. At this peanut boil for his son, Louis was presented a new Marine Unit Flag and a new American Flag by representatives of the Optimists and the VFW.
County Commissioners Are Working On Approach To Paving Program for County
By Sid Riley
10/16/08
At a special workshop on Tuesday, October 14, 2008 which was held in an effort to develop a satisfactory approach to a paving plan for the hundreds of miles of unpaved roads that criss-cross our county, the five commissioners struggled to find the appropriate approach.
The commission has been engaged in an aggressive repaving program for several years, using the state FDOT SCRAP program as the funding source.
One aspect of the problem is the limited inflow of available funds for new paving. The county can only plan on having approximately $2 million dollars per year available from the 1.5 cent sales tax revenues. At existing costs, this level of revenue will only accomplish a relatively small amount of new paving each year.
The first problem is determining how to set paving priorities. Should priorities be based on traffic usage? Or number of homes on the roadway (density)? Should the funds be spent on paving a stated number of miles in each of the five districts? Or should the funds all be spent in one district each year on a rotating basis? Should the allocation of paving in a district be based on a stated number of miles per project? Or should the allocation criteria be based on a certain amount of expenditures per project? (Since the cost per mile can vary greatly on a project, depending on soil and road bed conditions.)
A paving priority list was developed about five years ago, but the commissioners feel that usage and population shifts may have occurred that would make this data inaccurate in some instances. Commissioner Pittman made it plain that his road of preference is Sylvania Plantation Road, and Commissioner Lockey stated his road of choice in his district is Bump Nose Road. Branch discussed a portion of Old Spanish Trail and Compass Lake Drive in his district, and Crutchfield talked of Bethlehem Road.
This situation is further compounded by the fact that our Commissioners are selected by district instead of "at large" from the entire county. This system makes each commissioner seek benefit for his portion of the county instead of what might be best for the county overall. Also, some districts have many miles more of unpaved roads than other districts. Finding a solution that will satisfy everyone is very difficult.
The results of the workshop were:
- Each Commissioner will designate one road as the road of choice within their district.
- The county staff will conduct studies on each of these five roads to determine traffic count, home density, and other relevant data.
- The Commissioners will use this data to finalize a paving priority listing.
- The Commissioners will develop a paving plan based on these priorities.
- AND ROAD PAVING IN THE COUNTY WILL BEGIN.
10/16/08
At a special workshop on Tuesday, October 14, 2008 which was held in an effort to develop a satisfactory approach to a paving plan for the hundreds of miles of unpaved roads that criss-cross our county, the five commissioners struggled to find the appropriate approach.
The commission has been engaged in an aggressive repaving program for several years, using the state FDOT SCRAP program as the funding source.
One aspect of the problem is the limited inflow of available funds for new paving. The county can only plan on having approximately $2 million dollars per year available from the 1.5 cent sales tax revenues. At existing costs, this level of revenue will only accomplish a relatively small amount of new paving each year.
The first problem is determining how to set paving priorities. Should priorities be based on traffic usage? Or number of homes on the roadway (density)? Should the funds be spent on paving a stated number of miles in each of the five districts? Or should the funds all be spent in one district each year on a rotating basis? Should the allocation of paving in a district be based on a stated number of miles per project? Or should the allocation criteria be based on a certain amount of expenditures per project? (Since the cost per mile can vary greatly on a project, depending on soil and road bed conditions.)
A paving priority list was developed about five years ago, but the commissioners feel that usage and population shifts may have occurred that would make this data inaccurate in some instances. Commissioner Pittman made it plain that his road of preference is Sylvania Plantation Road, and Commissioner Lockey stated his road of choice in his district is Bump Nose Road. Branch discussed a portion of Old Spanish Trail and Compass Lake Drive in his district, and Crutchfield talked of Bethlehem Road.
This situation is further compounded by the fact that our Commissioners are selected by district instead of "at large" from the entire county. This system makes each commissioner seek benefit for his portion of the county instead of what might be best for the county overall. Also, some districts have many miles more of unpaved roads than other districts. Finding a solution that will satisfy everyone is very difficult.
The results of the workshop were:
- Each Commissioner will designate one road as the road of choice within their district.
- The county staff will conduct studies on each of these five roads to determine traffic count, home density, and other relevant data.
- The Commissioners will use this data to finalize a paving priority listing.
- The Commissioners will develop a paving plan based on these priorities.
- AND ROAD PAVING IN THE COUNTY WILL BEGIN.
I am a Cancer Survivor
By Dreama Peters
10/16/08
My story begins in December 2007 while I was nursing an injury from a fall in my yard which resulted in a twisted pelvis. I will go ahead and tell you this pelvis injury was the most painful thing physically I have ever endured.
Emotional pain on the other hand has been a different story. For the last two years I have been dealing with emotional pain at a level I never imagined I could endure. I lost my mother in April of 2006; six months later in October 2006 I lost my 14 year old granddaughter in a four wheeler accident. In January of 2008 I was diagnosed with breast cancer.
As a Christian I know all things happen for a reason. We don’t always know what that reason is,….. just that there is one. I discovered a lump in my left breast in December while bedridden with the twisted pelvis. This is one example of God’s intervention for me, because had I not been in bed I would probably have ignored that spot, thinking that it was probably from one of the kids at school where I work, pushing or pulling on me.
I next called the Women’s Healthcare in Dothan and made an appointment. They gave me one almost immediately. The day I went they did a mammogram, sonogram, and a biopsy. I was impressed because every other time I had a mammogram I would always have to go back later to do the sonogram.
They called within a few days, and on January 2, 2008 I was diagnosed with a Stage 2 cancer. I was alone when I got the call and for a split second I was crushed, but suddenly a feeling of peace came over me. I knew right away what that peace was; it was the peace that surpasses all understanding.
The next step was to call my husband and my children, and of course they were instantly devastated, you see, they didn’t know about that peace. My appointment had been made with Dr. Scott Robbins for January 5 and when I met him I knew once again my Jesus was ahead of me.
So the journey began with a lumpectomy which revealed the cancer in one of the three nodes that were removed. This was good news because it meant that we had caught things early, but it also meant that I needed to have a partial masectomy. This was all said and done by January 18. As I was healing, I met my cancer doctor, Dr. Mayer, who was referred by Dr. Robbins. You see God had already chosen my Doctors.
At this point I was told I would have to go until the first of August with chemo treatments every three weeks. After my third treatment Dr. Mayer informed me he was only going to give me one more treatment because I was responding so well, and that I was a perfect candidate for anti hormone therapy, which is a pill that I’ll take for the rest of my life.
I am alive and doing well, back at work at Blountstown Elementary School, where I am a paraprofessional working with ESE children, with a brand new attitude about my life and where God has brought me from. You see I haven’t said a lot about the pain of my cancer because for me this pain in no way compares to the pain of losing my granddaughter. The cancer has healed, but she is still gone.
In my afterthoughts I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the people God put in my path to help me through my ordeal. JoAnn Truette, thank you for standing so boldly in your faith, it gave me strength. Thanks to Kathy Roberts for being a true friend in Christ, you see these two kept pestering me until I bought a cancer policy back in November. Never expecting I would ever need it, this policy had to be in effect 30 days before it would pay the benefits, well guess what…… it had been in force 30 days on December 28 and I was diagnosed January 2. How is that for God looking out for me? He knows our needs.
When tragedies such as these enter our lives, we find out who our friends are. Trust me, God has blessed me with a wonderful, loving family, a tremendous church family and more friends than I ever thought about having. Thanks to each and every person for any and everything you have done. Please remember early detection is your best defense!
10/16/08
My story begins in December 2007 while I was nursing an injury from a fall in my yard which resulted in a twisted pelvis. I will go ahead and tell you this pelvis injury was the most painful thing physically I have ever endured.
Emotional pain on the other hand has been a different story. For the last two years I have been dealing with emotional pain at a level I never imagined I could endure. I lost my mother in April of 2006; six months later in October 2006 I lost my 14 year old granddaughter in a four wheeler accident. In January of 2008 I was diagnosed with breast cancer.
As a Christian I know all things happen for a reason. We don’t always know what that reason is,….. just that there is one. I discovered a lump in my left breast in December while bedridden with the twisted pelvis. This is one example of God’s intervention for me, because had I not been in bed I would probably have ignored that spot, thinking that it was probably from one of the kids at school where I work, pushing or pulling on me.
I next called the Women’s Healthcare in Dothan and made an appointment. They gave me one almost immediately. The day I went they did a mammogram, sonogram, and a biopsy. I was impressed because every other time I had a mammogram I would always have to go back later to do the sonogram.
They called within a few days, and on January 2, 2008 I was diagnosed with a Stage 2 cancer. I was alone when I got the call and for a split second I was crushed, but suddenly a feeling of peace came over me. I knew right away what that peace was; it was the peace that surpasses all understanding.
The next step was to call my husband and my children, and of course they were instantly devastated, you see, they didn’t know about that peace. My appointment had been made with Dr. Scott Robbins for January 5 and when I met him I knew once again my Jesus was ahead of me.
So the journey began with a lumpectomy which revealed the cancer in one of the three nodes that were removed. This was good news because it meant that we had caught things early, but it also meant that I needed to have a partial masectomy. This was all said and done by January 18. As I was healing, I met my cancer doctor, Dr. Mayer, who was referred by Dr. Robbins. You see God had already chosen my Doctors.
At this point I was told I would have to go until the first of August with chemo treatments every three weeks. After my third treatment Dr. Mayer informed me he was only going to give me one more treatment because I was responding so well, and that I was a perfect candidate for anti hormone therapy, which is a pill that I’ll take for the rest of my life.
I am alive and doing well, back at work at Blountstown Elementary School, where I am a paraprofessional working with ESE children, with a brand new attitude about my life and where God has brought me from. You see I haven’t said a lot about the pain of my cancer because for me this pain in no way compares to the pain of losing my granddaughter. The cancer has healed, but she is still gone.
In my afterthoughts I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the people God put in my path to help me through my ordeal. JoAnn Truette, thank you for standing so boldly in your faith, it gave me strength. Thanks to Kathy Roberts for being a true friend in Christ, you see these two kept pestering me until I bought a cancer policy back in November. Never expecting I would ever need it, this policy had to be in effect 30 days before it would pay the benefits, well guess what…… it had been in force 30 days on December 28 and I was diagnosed January 2. How is that for God looking out for me? He knows our needs.
When tragedies such as these enter our lives, we find out who our friends are. Trust me, God has blessed me with a wonderful, loving family, a tremendous church family and more friends than I ever thought about having. Thanks to each and every person for any and everything you have done. Please remember early detection is your best defense!
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