Archive for Kristin

Remembrance Of Things Past: Tim Sanders

March 8, 2012 History Comments Off

By Kristin Finney
Greene Publishing, Inc.

Whether it was sliding down “the bowl” or skating around the courthouse, Tim Sanders’ memories of Madison are extensive. Being born and raised in this lovely county, Sanders’ roots here are deep.

Sanders attended Madison Elementary School through the sixth grade, and Madison High School from seventh through twelfth. In high school he played for the football, baseball and basketball teams. Back in those days, the high school teams weren’t the Cowboys. They were the Red Devils. “Everyone knows how successful the football team is now. Well, back in those days we weren’t so successful. In my three years on varsity we might have won three games, and tied a few. Almost all of our away games were homecoming games. Back then we were an easy win, and made for a happy homecoming for the other team,” recalled Sanders.

Growing up, Sanders had a very large extended family. He stated, “I was very blessed with my family. I had a lot of aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents, everything. It’s heartbreaking to see the conditions that children are raised in now. Working in the juvenile court I seeing the way that some children are brought up compared to the way I was brought up, is heartbreaking.”

When he was a child, Sanders spent a lot of time at school or working. He worked for his Uncle Dick Baker at his Standard Oil Station. The station was located where the New York Life building is now. During the school year, he would work on Saturdays and half the day on Sunday. During the summer, he would work more often. “I really enjoyed it. I was able to interact with the older people in Madison and that was really special. I am still friends with some of those people today. They always made me feel special.”

He also recalls working for Mickler’s Laundry and Dry Cleaning on Saturdays, which was located across the street from where the post office currently sits. He and his cousin would run the laundry route. They would go to Greenville, Aucilla, Capps, Jasper and many other places to pick up and drop off laundry. “We got 10 percent of what was made that day. Some days, we would only get $5. When I was 16 years old I had just bought a Browning Sweet 16 shotgun from Mr. James at Western Auto. I had to pay him at least $5 a week to pay off my shotgun. Back then, there weren’t Visa cards or anything, just a handshake and my word. But often times I would get paid from Mickler’s and go straight across the road and give the money to Mr. James,” remembered Sanders.

For fun, Sanders and his friends would go up town and skate around the courthouse. “There would be 20 or 30 of us skating sometimes. I would leave home after breakfast, maybe go back for lunch and then get home sometime after dark. We were always outside playing. We would also go to ‘the bowl’ with boxes and rub candle wax on the outside of our boxes. We would sit on the boxes and ride down the bowl. The wax made us go even faster.”

Anyone interested in being interviewed for this article can call 973-4141 and make an appointment with Kristin Finney, or may drop by Greene Publishing, Inc. any day before noon. Those interviewed must have lived in Madison for a large portion of their life, and be able to recall a few things that have changed since that time.

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Remembrance Of Things Past: Ray Williams

March 1, 2012 Around Madison, History Comments Off

By Kristin Finney
Greene Publishing, Inc.

Ray Williams has lived in Madison for the majority of his life. The only time he has not resided in Madison was during his time in the Army. He was born in 1944 and in all of those years living in this community, Williams still loves Madison and there is no where else he would rather be.

Growing up, Williams attended Lee Junior High School and Madison High School. In school he was a member of the Future Farmers of America. He also played many sports in school, including basketball, softball and baseball. When he wasn’t in school, Williams spent a lot of his time at home, on the family farm.

The family farm was located near Blue Springs, across from where Nestle Water Company currently sits. Williams explained, “When I was a kid there wasn’t a whole lot to do. We didn’t go to town often, maybe on Saturday afternoons and evenings. We spent a lot of our time swimming at Blue Springs or Cushion Ferry. My dad’s family was really big, so we had reunions and fish fries a lot when I was growing up. Back then it wasn’t just family that would come. There were people from the community there too.”

When Williams would go to town, he would often go to the Swan Theatre and see a western or something of that nature. The cost of admission was a nickel. “Madison was a thriving little town back then. Every building had something in it.

There were five tractor dealerships, shoe stores, dress shops, two cotton gins, two dime stores, dry goods stores and four or five grocery stores. All of those are gone now,” said Williams.

Williams reminisced, “I have a lot of fond memories of Madison back then and I think about it quite often. People’s relationships with each other have changed a lot since then. Back then a man’s handshake was his word. It meant more than any contract. But now you can’t do that. People just don’t have time for people anymore. There are no neighborly feelings, or at least not as much as there used to be. Back then people would do anything for their neighbors. If a farmer got really sick and it was time for the crops to be planted, his neighbors would often get together and go out there and plant his crops for him. Back then a farmers’ crop was usually what supported his family through the year. So much has changed since then that is it unbelievable. Don’t get me wrong, I love Madison. I have been to other places and there is nowhere else that I liked as much as I love Madison.”

Anyone interested in being interviewed for this article can call 973-4141 and make an appointment with Kristin Finney, or may drop by Greene Publishing, Inc. any day before noon. Those interviewed must have lived in Madison for a large portion of their life, and be able to recall a few things that have changed since that time.

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Remembrance of Things Past: Johnny Carroll

February 23, 2012 Around Madison, History Comments Off

By Kristin Finney
Greene Publishing, Inc.
When it comes to remembering information about Greenville, Johnny Carroll is the man for the job. Carroll has lived in Greenville all of his life. He grew up working on the family farm in Greenville, he raised his family in Greenville and to this day he stays as involved in the community as he can.

Johnny Carroll went to Greenville High School growing up. While most kids now-a-days spend their afternoons laying around, playing video games or watching TV, Carroll didn’t do that. Instead, he had to work on the family farm. “Back then we had to work a lot,” he said. After he stopped working on the farm, Carroll held jobs with a heavy equipment company, driving a school bus for Madison County for 16 years and he also worked at Pepsi Cola, Inc. He retired from Pepsi Cola. Carroll has been a deacon at Sirmans Baptist Church for 40 years. He has also been the song leader (Music Director) for 40 years.

Greenville has changed in many ways over the years. Some of the biggest changes Johnny Carroll has seen are, “We used to have a theatre in Greenville growing up. I went their a lot with friends. We also had a restaurant, Sidney’s Restaurant. I had a lot of friends when I was growing up. We would ride bikes all over Greenville. Back then we weren’t worried about getting hurt or anything bad happening. We also played baseball or softball on weeknights or Sunday afternoons. We even had a town league. We used to play ball at the old ball field in Greenville.” This might be hard to imagine now, since most of these things are no longer in Greenville, but back then there were several saw mills and even a barbershop in Greenville.

When he did have time for fun, Carroll liked to spend his time fishing. He also loved to spend time with his family, a trait he carries on today with his children, two grandchildren and a new great grand child. He also owns a small yard service business. With this business he is trying to help people in the community with different things that they need.

He loves to go to Cowboy football games and baseball games. “I really love people. I like to visit and help people. I attend the city council meetings, I am a part of the Country Christmas Committee and I try to be involved in any other projects here in Greenville. I just really love to help people. Recently, after Jacob Bembry had his incident, I felt like I needed to do something. So, I went and got his dad and family and took them to the hospital to be with him. I just love helping people,” explained Carroll.

“I have seen a lot of changes come through Greenville. There are new rules and regulations. There have also been a lot of businesses come in and go out. I have seen it grow and I have seen people get more involved,” he said.

Anyone interested in being interviewed for this article can call 973-4141 and make an appointment with Kristin Finney, or may drop by Greene Publishing, Inc. any day before noon. Those interviewed must have lived in Madison for a large portion of their life, and be able to recall a few things that have changed since that time.

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Remembrance of Things Past: Anthony Feacher Jr.

February 16, 2012 Around Madison, History Comments Off

By Kristin Finney
Greene Publishing, Inc.

Anthony Feacher Jr. might not have lived in Madison his whole life, but Madison has always been his home. Feacher was born in Monticello. He grew up in Greenville and Lee. He attended Springfield school through the fourth grade.

Growing up, Feacher worked on the farm from the time he was five years old, until he was 21. On the farm he worked in cotton, tobacco, corn and watermelon. He worked with a mule most days and worked long, hard hours.

He and his family had very little free time, due to working on the farm, but occasionally on Saturdays, Feacher would go to the movies. “But we always had to be home by 9,” he said.

At the age of 21, Feacher moved to Jacksonville. There were jobs in Jacksonville that he could get. But most importantly, he said, “I wanted to get away from that mule.” Then in 2007, he moved back to Madison. “Madison is my home. It’s good to be back home,” he explained.

When asked what has changed in Madison since he first moved away, Feacher said, “It is much better now. The places that we couldn’t go before, we can go to now. It’s much better.”

Feacher now spends his time at the Senior Citizens Center, with his wife, and at church. His wife is Mary Feacher. He has nine children; Carton, Dwight Anthony (who passed away), Anthony, Belanda, Claretha, Velma, Evett, Vickie and Veronica. He is a deacon at Pineland Missionary Baptist Church. He also enjoys riding around town and looking at the tractors and farms.

Anyone interested in being interviewed for this article can call 973-4141 and make an appointment with Kristin Finney, or may drop by Greene Publishing, Inc. any day before noon. Those interviewed must have lived in Madison for a large portion of their lives, and be able to recall a few things that have changed since that time.

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Remembrance Of Things Past: Lucile Whitty Cherry

February 9, 2012 Around Madison, History One comment

By Kristin Finney
Greene Publishing, Inc.

Lucile Whitty Cherry has called Madison County her home for most of her life. Growing up two miles east of Lee, Lucile was raised on a family farm. The farm was first purchased by Lucile’s great grandmother. Then her grandfather became the owner. Her grandfather cared for the farm along with her grandma, until her grandma became sick. Lucile’s dad, being the only one of three siblings unwed, then came back to the farm to help his dad.

On the farm, the Whitty’s grew cotton, tobacco, corn, hay, peanuts and many other crops. Lucile’s mother always had a garden as well. Lucile was the oldest of six children. Her younger siblings were: Muriel Whitty Turlington, Frances Whitty Mercer, Gertrude Whitty Gamble, Robert B. Whitty and E. Benjamin Whitty. All of the children had to help around the farm. They would pick, hoe and poison cotton, work the tobacco, and help care for the other crops.

Lucile attended Lee School when she was growing up until the 10th grade. She then went to Madison High School until graduation. Following graduation, she went to the Florida State College for Women. In order to pay her father back for her tuition, Lucile worked as an assistant for the National Youth Administration her freshman year, then her sophomore through senior year she worked in the dining hall. Also her senior year, she worked in the English department.

After graduating college, Lucile began working as a teacher. She worked at many schools in Florida. She finally returned to Madison in 1947 after meeting and marrying her husband Marcus (Mark) Cherry. In Madison, Lucile worked at Lee School for eight years, and at the high school from 1960-1082. At the high school she was taught history, English, P.E., coached girls basketball and eventually became the guidance counselor.

Mark and Lucile have two sons, Allen and Douglas (Doug). After retiring from teaching, Lucile was offered a part time position at the college as a woman’s guidance councelor. She remained in that position for eight years. During that time, in 1990, Mark opened the first Old Bookstore. The Old Bookstore has since changed locations two times.

In 1999 Mark passed away, leaving Lucile and her children to decide whether to continue running the store. The three made the choice to continue trying to make the store work. With the help of her granddaughter, the Old Bookstore survived and remains successful.

In those years, Lucile has seen many changes happen in Madison. Some of the main changes she has seen happened right on the street where The Old Bookstore is currently located. In the exact spot that her store is located now, was Paramore Grocery. Across the street, where Creature Feature is now was a poolroom. Mr. Hadden’s store was located beside it. There was also a drug store where Madison Florist currently sits.

Anyone interested in being interviewed for this article can call 973-4141 and make an appointment with Kristin Finney, or may drop by Greene Publishing, Inc. any day before noon. Those interviewed must have lived in Madison for a large portion of their life, and be able to recall a few things that have changed since that time.

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JA Hosts “Starry Night” Father-Daughter Dance

February 2, 2012 Around Madison, Front Page Comments Off

By Kristin Finney

Greene Publishing, Inc.

The Junior Auxiliary of Madison County would like to cordially invite all of the fathers and daughters in Madison to join them for their fourth annual Father-Daughter Dance. This year’s dance will be called Starry Night. The dance will be on February 11, from 6-8p.m.

The event will be held at the Madison Women’s Club. Tickets are $10 per father, and he can bring up to three daughters. This ticket price also includes a 5×7 portrait taken at the event.

Tickets can be purchased at the Madison County Community Bank or Odiorne Insurance. For more information please call Jamie Andrews (850) 673-7803.

 

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Remembrance Of Things Past: J. B. Delaughter

February 2, 2012 Around Madison, History Comments Off

By Kristin Finney
Greene Publishing, Inc.

For almost 90 years, JB Delaughter has called Madison his home. He was born in 1922 and has been in Madison for all but two years of his life. He has worked as a farmer and a pallet maker. He enjoys fishing, peppermints and going to church.

Growing up in Madison, JB attended Madison Training School. While in school he enjoyed playing football and basketball. When he wasn’t in school he was usually working on the tobacco or cotton farms. He worked as a farmer for most of his childhood.

At the age of 14, JB’s mom passed away, leaving he, his two brothers and their dad to care for their home. They cleaned the house and yard and tried to keep things as tidy as possible.

When he got spare time between work and school, JB enjoyed going fishing at ponds in Madison for brim and bass. He and his brothers also enjoyed listening to the radio. Another treat that JB had was getting to buy peppermints from the traveling store.

When he was old enough, JB joined the army. He served in World War II for two years. While in the Army he traveled to France and Okinawa, Japan. After returning home from the war, JB worked as a farmer and other jobs. Then he began work as a pallet maker. It was this job from which he retired.

Anyone interested in being interviewed for this article can call 973-4141 and make an appointment with Kristin Finney, or may drop by Greene Publishing, Inc. any day before noon. Those interviewed must have lived in Madison for a large portion of their life, and be able to recall a few things that have changed since that time.

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Player Spotlight: Taryn Copeland

January 26, 2012 Sports Comments Off

By Kristin Finney
Greene Publishing, Inc.

Telling someone that they “throw like a girl” used to be an insult, but that shouldn’t be the case anymore. Taryn Copeland is proud to “throw like a girl,” and it is those throwing skills that landed her a spot as a pitcher on the softball team at St. John’s River State College.

Copeland is a 2011 honor graduate of Aucilla Christian Academy. While at ACA, she played on the softball and basketball teams every year. She was also on the cheerleading squad each year. She was a member of the Beta Club for four years, and was their secretary during her senior year. She ran cross-country her senior year and was dual enrolled at North Florida Community College each semester starting her 10th grade summer.

Playing softball in college wasn’t part of Copeland’s plans until she was in 11th grade. “Since recruiting starts so young now and I was pretty late in my decision, I figured if I wanted to play at the next level, I better get serious. The summer before my 11th grade year is when I got into travel ball, started going to more pitching lessons, and conditioning and keeping in shape in the off-season.  I got into a recruiting website and started getting emails from coaches.  The emails I was getting were from colleges in states like Michigan, Virginia Tennessee and Washington, but I definitely didn’t want to leave Florida. One day I got an email from the recruiting/pitching coach here at SJRSC. I had never heard of the school before but I called him back and he asked me to come work out with the team.  My mom drove me over to Palatka in the fall of my junior year. I threw for the coach and he offered me a full-scholarship that day.  I met the team and toured the school and I knew I wanted to go there.  The coach took me and showed me some apartments right on the St. Johns River and that is what sold my dad and me. I verbally committed right then.  The two coaches I committed under left and we got a new coach, Katie Brosky. She’s a great coach and pitched at UNF so that definitely benefits us pitchers.  We have three assistant coaches who do a great job with the program as well.”

When asked to describe her family, Copeland said, “My family is definitely my biggest support group, and I wouldn’t trade them for the world. I’m where I am today all because of them. I have a pretty normal family: Mom, Debbie Copeland, Dad, Scott Copeland, sister, Casey (28), brother, Tres (16), and sister, Taylor (13). I also have such supportive grandparents who I love so much and would do anything for me. My mom is a huge inspiration to me, she has always helped me through every problem I’ve had and she has always encouraged me to follow my dreams and not let anything else get in the way. My dad is a huge part of my success in softball, ever since I was 8 years old, me and my dad would be in the yard playing ball non-stop. He has always supported me and wanted me to do what made me happy. My parents never pushed me into softball, which is why I love it so much. We were never really a big softball family. We didn’t travel to different states playing ball every single weekend and I am very grateful for that because the decision to start playing travel ball, which led into me playing college ball, was my decision, not a decision I was forced into.  I couldn’t have asked for a better brother and sister, they are everything to me and they are a great support group as well.  I know for a fact that both my brother and sister will follow my path into college athletics and will be very successful.”

When it comes to college softball, there is no off-season. The girls condition and workout five days a week during the summer. They do get to go home during the summer, but they each get sheets that they must log their workouts in every day. When they get back to school in the fall, they start major conditioning.  Copeland describing major conditioning as, “This is where the coaches tell who has and hasn’t worked out in the summer. During fall conditioning we usually condition five days a week for about an hour and a half.  Fall practice starts about three weeks after school starts. We practice 5-6 days a week for around three hours and condition after practice.”  Then fall games begin. The team plays an average of 25 games in the fall. After fall games are over the girls condition hard until Christmas break. They then get three weeks off for the holidays. “During both fall and spring we have to workout an hour a day in the weight room around our class schedule, we get max out sheets and have to get stronger and be able to lift more weight every month,” said Copeland.

The workouts and conditioning that the girls must do is not simply running or lifting weights. There are few people who could handle the intense workouts that the girls must do. “We do a lot of running and weight training for conditioning, but mostly running.  Our coach mixes it up from day to day but it is always really tough and she pushes us very hard. An example of a normal day of conditioning would be: a timed campus run (two miles), sprints on the tennis courts, suicides, fitness stations (agilities and core work), and just different workouts every day. We have about 30 different things we can do for conditioning and it’s different every day so you never know what to expect.  As a pitcher, we have to be in the best shape because were constantly doing something, so Amanda Smith (sophomore Pitcher) and I, run a campus run on our own everyday at practice.  I also do a lot of conditioning on my own; I run in the mornings or after practice and sometimes do extra workouts with some of my teammates after practice.”

The SJRSC softball season starts January 28 with the JUCO kickoff classic tournament in Clearwater. The team will play up to 65 games until the beginning of May. When asked what she was most looking forward to, Copeland said, “There are a lot of things I look forward to this season: traveling around the state, hanging out with my friends on the team, working hard, playing hard, beating a lot of teams, and hopefully winning a state championship!”

­According to Copeland, the most difficult aspect of playing college softball is time management.  “As a student athlete I am on campus from 8 in the morning to about 6-8 at night.  Between morning workouts, classes, study hall, physical therapy, homework and of course practice, I have absolutely no free time, but I love it! I’m always busy and I always have something to do.  It gets stressful at times, but I know it will all be worth it one day, and I wont regret playing softball in college,” she said.

When asked what one of the biggest challenges of playing college softball, Copeland said, “College is a whole different world than high school, in classes/homework and softball.  I’m used to college classes and homework, and they really aren’t an issue for me because of dual enrolling, but it does get tough sometimes taking 15 or 16 hours and playing softball.  In high school our practices were a whole different atmosphere.  I loved my high school team and coach, and I still wish I could go back and play my senior year all over again.  College practices are twice as long, we run 20 times as much and we are expected to practice with 10 times the intensity as we practiced in high school, but it has made me want to work harder and become a better pitcher.  In college ball, everyone was the MVP of their high school team, so it takes a little while to get used to people being better than you, but in the end it makes you better as an athlete.”

Copeland’s academic plan is to complete her Associate in Arts at St. Johns. She will have her AA plus some of her prerequisites completed after this semester. Next year she will just be focusing on her prerequisite classes.  After next year’s season she hopes to transfer to Florida State University, University of Florida or University of South Florida to finish up my prerequisites, and then apply to either Medical school or Pharmacy school.

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Remembrance Of Things Past: Vicki Howerton

January 26, 2012 History Comments Off

By Kristin Finney
Greene Publishing, Inc.

To say that Vicki Howerton loves Madison County would be an understatement. She moved here in 1971 after she married her husband, Colin Howerton, a longtime Madison resident. Prior to moving to Madison, Howerton graduated from Waycross High School, then attended Ga. Southern College for two years. “I then graduated from Valdosta State University with a BS degree in Elementary Education,” she said.

“I loved the gorgeous yellow brick Court house and especially our yellow brick First United Methodist Church. The Four Freedoms Monument was something that I loved   with the beautiful stately angels standing guard over this pretty town. The Country Club was beautiful, and College was very special too —along with Cherry Lake where we all loved to go skiing,” Howerton said, when asked about her favorite parts of Madison County after first moving here.

Over the years many stores have came and gone through Madison. Some of Howerton’s most cherished memories included those stores. “I remember Lucille’s Dress Shop with the beautiful slippers, robes, etc.. The Eagles Store was a favorite. Madison Dress Shop was always fun to go in-a shop where you could find pretty outfits and jewelry and also visit with all the friends who stopped by to shop and to chat,” she said.

She also said, “The K & M Restaurant was open, as well as the Madison Restaurant owned and operated by Jack and Toy Stewart; that was where we all went after Church on Sundays for a delicious lunch. I miss Smith’s Drug store that was an amazing gathering spot with great coffee and Louise Bland’s fabulous pimento and chicken salad sandwiches. I also miss Comer’s Drugs (and Norris Pharmacy/Ladybug cafe along Jenny Week’s Madison Hotel and the One Eleven Restaurant that were all here more recently.) In the ‘70s, The College Inn was a favorite, and the Hillcrest Dairy Bar was totally amazing with their Slaw burgers, Slaw dogs, and was a part of everyone’s daily life almost!!  It was a special gathering place! We all loved seeing John and Wanda. We enjoyed our daughter, Memy, along with all their children and all our local youth growing up together and spending much time at the Dairy Bar with friends and families.”

When asked what she and her husband would do for fun, Howerton responded, “We played a lot of golf and went to a lot of dinners and golfing events at the Madison Country Club. It was very active back then—especially the annual Pot Williams Golf Tournament. Every Thursday night dinner was served at the MCC for many years. We all served on committees to make it happen. During the summers, all the moms and children gathered at the pool to let the children swim in the afternoons while the moms chatted; many times the dads would often be playing golf. Tennis was also a huge part of the MCC for many residents. Wednesday Bridge Club was a way of life for the ladies, and the men would play couples bridge with us on weekends and have dinner at each of our homes as we would rotate hosting the Bridge parties-luncheons and dinners.

Also we went to Valdosta with friends and family to restaurants, shopping, movies, and also golf tournaments/events. We went to Tallahassee and Gainvesville sometimes to shop- or football games and restaurants—but mostly Valdosta. We went there weekly for one reason or another….still do!”

Howerton also shared the best part of living in a small town, “For me, the best is the wonderful relationships that we all enjoy as residents of Madison. We are all one big family and that is such a blessing to all. The worst is knowing that there are great needs that are common to every  town today and not being able to change and meet these needs immediately to make it even more outstanding/excellent in every way. However, these needs are constantly being forcefully addressed, and we do know that we have committed people and many prayers to see things turn around especially for children and families, as more jobs will be coming to Madison; spiritual revival as well is continuing to happen in our county.”

Anyone interested in being interviewed for this article can call 973-4141 and make an appointment with Kristin Finney, or may drop by Greene Publishing, Inc. any day before noon. Those interviewed must have lived in Madison for a large portion of their life, and be able to recall a few things that have changed since that time.

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Player Spotlight: Matt Dobson

January 17, 2012 Sports Comments Off

By Kristin Finney
Greene Publishing, Inc.

In the south, football is more than just a sport; it’s a way of life. Matt Dobson is the epitome of this idea. Dobson’s football career began when he started playing football at the YMCA in Thomasville, Ga. when he was five years old. Then, in sixth grade, he began attending Aucilla Christian Academy and played quarterback for the Junior Varsity team that year. During my seventh and eighth grade year he was the starting Varsity quarterback at ACA. In January of his eighth grade year he transferred to North Florida Christian in Tallahassee. He was the starting safety his freshman and sophomore years. Then in his junior and senior years he was NFC’s starting quarterback.

Dobson’s background in football is extensive, he explains, “My family has always been avid football fans. I began by watching football with my dad and just always wanted to play. I cannot remember ever not playing football.”

Since playing at NFC, Dobson and his team have won two state championships. His freshman year he was a starting safety on the state championship team and his senior year he was the starting quarterback on the state championship team.

Dobson began practicing for the 2011 season the Monday after the last game of his junior season. They began preparing for the following season by working out in the weight room, running and conditioning. Dobson explained, “During the summer we had our summer program which includes lifting, running and 7 on 7 passing drills as well as competitions. During the actual season we practiced everyday throughout the week, watched film, and continued to lift in the weight room.”

“Playing in the two state championship games was a great experience that I will never forget. My freshman year playing in the state championship was very nerve racking and it was a new experience and something that I had no idea what to expect. My senior year I knew more what to expect and it meant more winning the state championship the second time. My senior teammates and I had worked extremely hard for 4 years and went through a coaching change and some tough times to get where we were to win the 2nd state championship in 4 years, so it was great to see how excited everyone was when we won and see how all the hard work had paid off,” said Dobson.

Being a quarterback isn’t always easy. Dobson said that one of the biggest challenges of being the quarterback is, “the mental aspect of the game. As a quarterback you have to be a student of the game and know exactly what is going on at all times. Leading up to the game the quarterback must study film and understand the game plan and the assignments of all eleven players on the field. The quarterback also needs to know what the other team’s defense is going to do and what their strengths and weaknesses are. One of the hardest things during practices and games is staying completely focused on your assignment every play. When you let your mind wander at all then that is when you make mistakes so you must be focused at all times and keep others around you focused.”

He also spoke of the positives of being quarterback, “The best part about being a quarterback is being an influential person in the lives of others. Younger kids and teammates look to the quarterback as someone who should be a leader and being able to be a positive role model in others lives is great. Another one of the best things about being a quarterback is having a big impact in the outcome of all the games especially in an offense like we run at NFC. The quarterback touches the ball on every play and has to make decisions on almost every play and that is great about playing quarterback.”

On Dec. 21 in Sebring, Dobson got to play in the Florida Athletic Coaches Association North – South all- star game. The players who were selected to play in the game were voted on by coaches. Dobson was able to play quarterback in the game. “This all-star game was a lot of fun and it was fun to play with some great players from all over the state of Florida. We won the game 47-21 and I really enjoyed the whole experience. Meeting and getting to know many of the other guys playing in the game was enjoyable, especially some of the guys from around this area like Tevin Roundtree from Madison and some of the guys from Tallahassee,” said Dobson.

“Being selected to play in this all star game was a great honor considering the many NFL hall of famers and future hall of famers who have played in this game in the past. I am thankful for all my teammates and coaches at NFC who helped me have a great year, which helped me get selected to play in this game. I was also selected to play in the Florida-Georgia border wars all-star game but will not be able to play in this game because I will be taking an official visit to a college on that weekend,” he said.

Matt Dobson has been selected for multiple all big bend teams and all state teams throughout his football career. He also won the Tallahassee Quarterback Club Player of the Year his senior year. He does plan on playing football at the collegiate level and has received full scholarship offers from multiple Division I schools. He has not decided where he will attend college yet, but he plans to make his decision soon.

When asked what advice he would offer to players interested in being quarterback, he said, “My advice to anyone interested in playing quarterback would be to first make sure you have your priorities straight. Put God first in everything you do. If you serve God and work hard He will honor your hard work. Make sure you also take your academics serious because this is more important than football as well. Football is not eternal so you need to make sure you put God first, your family second, academics next, and football after that then this will help you be successful. Also if you are interested in playing quarterback you have to be a leader on the field but even more importantly off the field and in life.”

Dobson is the son of Terry and Ronda Dobson who are originally from Greenville and Madison respectively, but they now reside in Aucilla. His grandparents are Ron and Martha Smoak from Madison. Loa Lee Dobson from Aucilla and the late George Dobson from Greenville. He has two sisters: Stephanie, who is married to Josh Boan, lives in Madison, and Chelsea Dobson, who lives in Tallahassee.

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Remembrance of Things Past: Mosley Lee Barfield

January 12, 2012 Around Madison, History Comments Off

By Kristin Finney
Greene Publishing, Inc.

The common belief is that a person might leave their hometown, but in the end, they almost always come back. Mosley Lee Barfield is a living example of that belief. She was born and raised in Madison. She attended school at Madison County High School, MCTS back then, and graduated from there in 1957.

Growing up, some of Mosley’s hobbies included sewing, fishing, playing basketball and hopscotch, jumping rope, playing springboard and playing baseball. She grew up working in the tobacco and cotton fields, and that was how she made her money. Any extra money that she had went to buying fabric, needles and thread. She was taught from an early age how to make her own clothes.

Following her high school graduation, she married Frank A. Barfield. In 1957 they moved to Orlando, but returned to Madison in 1964 to open their own restaurant. They then divorced and Mosley began working at ITT. She stayed with ITT for 23 and a half years. After ITT closed she went to work for Levi Strauss Co. making jeans. She stayed there for five years before she retired.

After retiring, Mosley began volunteering at the Madison Senior Citizens Center. She helps with arts and crafts, sewing and she is also a van driver for them. Sewing has always been one of her favorite hobbies. She continues to sew today, collecting patterns, sewing for people and making alterations from home. She also enjoys quilting.

Anyone interested in being interviewed for this article can call 973-4141 and make an appointment with Kristin Finney, or may drop by Greene Publishing, Inc. any day before noon. Those interviewed must have lived in Madison for a large portion of their life, and be able to recall a few things that have changed since that time.

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Remembrance of Things Past: Robert McColskey

January 5, 2012 Around Madison, History Comments Off

By Kristin Finney
Greene Publishing, Inc.
To say that music and church is a big part of Robert McColskey’s life would be an understatement. McColskey and his wife moved to Madison in 1989 from Palatka. They were both members of the Apostolic church and came to Madison for their church. Since coming to Madison, McColskey has been attempting to get people to come to church with him. Until recently, Madison has had no Apostolic church. There is now one located in the Harvey’s shopping center.

McColskey’s wife, Ruth, passed away in 2002, but prior to her death, she and Robert spent a lot of time doing church activities. Robert and Ruth also enjoyed going to eat at O’Neals. Robert played the guitar and sang in church for 30 years.

After his fingers became to stiff to wrap around the neck of the guitar, Robert made himself a four-string banjo and started playing it in churches. He has made several other instruments as well. They include: a 29-string harp, a dulcimer, solid top banjos and even a fiddle.

Modern amenities such as TVs and computers are not important to McColskey. He has no TV and no computer. He has been retired for 34 years and doesn’t fish anymore. For fun, McColskey goes to church.
When asked how he spends his free time now, McColskey responded, “I study my Bible. I have read the Bible the whole way through once a year, every year since 1979.” McColskey has spent a lot of time doing the work of the Lord, trying to share God’s word with everyone he meets. “If someone wants to know what the Bible says, I know it,” he explained.

Anyone interested in being interviewed for this article can call 973-4141 and make an appointment with Kristin Finney, or may drop by Greene Publishing, Inc. any day before noon. Those interviewed must have lived in Madison for a large portion of their life, and be able to recall a few things that have changed since that time.

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Scam Alert: Three Suspects Still Sought

January 3, 2012 Around Madison, Crime, Front Page Comments Off

By Kristin Finney
Greene Publishing, Inc.
Three suspects are currently being sought in regards to three different scam attempts in Madison County. The suspects have been targeting local businesses. They attempt to confuse the cashier into giving them more change than they should be given for purchases made.
The first place that the suspects attempted to scam was the Busy Bee off of Base Street. The two men walked into the convenience store and spoke as though they were very kind and friendly, normal customers. However, they are anything but kind and normal customers. The two men reportedly paid for $10 worth of merchandise with $50. They then attempted to confuse the attendant and say they needed more change back, saying that they wanted their $50 bill back.
After attempted to scam Busy Bee, the suspects targeted Love’s Truck Stop. It was at this time that the two men added a third suspect into their scheme, a woman. They then traveled across the street to the Red Onion Grill. It was here that the scammers were able to get away with close to $200.
“They asked me for change and I gave them their change and all I can remember is just being really confused and thinking well what’s going on here? Why do they keep asking me for change?”
 said Leah Buchanon, waitress at the Red Onion Grill.
The three suspects are still at large. Madison County Crime Stoppers requests that people with any tips please contact them via phone, text message or facebook.
Phone: 973-2762 (TIPS-LINE)
Text: Type in “CMC plus your message” to 274637 (crimes)
Facebook: Visit their page to view wanted fugitives, other information, requests for information and you can also submit tips online by clicking “submit tip” online.

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Burglary Suspect Still At Large

December 29, 2011 Front Page Comments Off

By Kristin Finney
Greene Publishing, Inc.

On December 24, Cpl. Kevin Stout of the Madison Sheriff’s Department was dispatched to a home on SW Boundary St. in reference to a burglary complaint. Upon arriving at the scene, Stout was told the burglary had happened while the victim explained he had left for work at approximately 2 p.m. the previous day, and returned home at 2 a.m. on December 24. The complainant did not realize any items were missing until he woke up later that day and walked into his living room.

According to the report, items that were stolen included a Playstation 3 and a wireless controller. The victim also reported damage to a mini-blind in his dining room rear window. Other evidence at the scene that showed possible signs of burglary included a door that appeared to be locked from the outside, a footprint on the victim’s concrete carport and other potential evidence.

The burglar is facing charges of burglary and felony theft. While the culprit has not been identified, the Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone with information regarding this crime to please contact the Sheriff’s Office at 973-4001.

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Remembrance of Things Past: Johnnie McGee

December 29, 2011 Around Madison, History Comments Off

By Kristin Finney
Greene Publishing, Inc.

When people discuss a “local” they are often referring to a person who has lived in a place for their whole life. If that is the case, then Johnnie McGee would definitely be considered a Madison “local.” McGee has lived in Madison all of his life, adding up to nearly 70 years.

McGee grew up on Rocky Ford Road in Madison. He attended elementary and high school in Madison. When he was younger, he and his friends would spend time at the Suwannee River Junior College playing football, baseball, basketball and tennis. They would also play horseshoes and shoot marbles.

Growing up, until 1966, McGee’s job was farming. After that he worked at a feed mill for a couple of years. Then, in 1969, McGee began working for Norfolk Southern railroads. Norfolk Southern was a railroad company based in Macon and Atlanta, Ga., Jacksonville and Roanoke, Va.

While working for Norfolk Southern, McGee’s job responsibilities included repairing tracks, putting on tires, laying railing and unloading railing. After 33 years of working for Norfolk Southern, McGee retired in 2002.

McGee spent a lot of his life working for Norfolk Southern, staying in motels and working long days. However, he knew that when he came home, his wife would be there, as would his five children. McGee met his wife Marionette through a friend, and they were married for 32 years. Their children are Johnnie Jr., Willie, Shirley, Linda and Mervin.

When they were younger, Johnnie and Marionette would go on dates to the drive-in theatre in Madison. Back in those days, Madison had drive-ins and two movie theatres. They did most of their shopping in Madison as well, going to Pantry Pride and Pick-n-Save.

Anyone interested in being interviewed for this article can call 973-4141 and make an appointment with Kristin Finney, or may drop by Greene Publishing, Inc. any day before noon. Those interviewed must have lived in Madison for a large portion of their life, and be able to recall a few things that have changed since that time.

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Remembrance of Things Past: Tracy Bowen

December 22, 2011 History Comments Off

By Kristin Finney
Greene Publishing, Inc.

When a person has lived all across the world, it might seem hard to believe that they would find their way to Madison. However, that is exactly the case with Tracy Bowen. Prior to living in Madison, Tracy was living in Guam. She and her family came to Madison in 1972 after her father inherited the family farm. Madison is also where he retired from the Air Force.

During that time, there was plenty for kids to do in Madison. Some of Tracy’s fondest memories include Randall Buchanan taking she and other kids to the Pinetta Community Center to play tennis. The community center was closed for many years, but was recently opened again. “The community center always gave us something to do,” said Tracy.

Some other activities that she did for fun were meeting her dad for lunch at Pep’s or going to the Hillcrest Dairy Bar for a plate of French fries with her friends after school. Hillcrest Dairy Bar was located where O’neals is currently at. She also recalls her mom taking the family to drive-in theater. “She would make homemade popcorn and put it in bread bags so we could take it with us,” she explained.

Tracy also enjoyed going to Pick-n-Save while her mom was next door at Pantry Pride and picking out new records to buy. Comers Drug Store was another place that she frequented. Comers had an old fashioned soda fountain, “You could add the syrup and make your soda. They also had really good floats.” Tracy actually worked at Comers for a while after school and during the summer when she was younger.

During summer there was plenty to do in Madison County. One of Tracy and her friend’s favorite activities was going to Wade’s Beach at Cherry Lake. She also went camping at Blue Springs with her family two or three times a month during the summer. “It wasn’t camping with a camper. We did it the old fashioned way. Whatever we caught was what we ate for supper. It was a lot of fun, we really enjoyed it.” She also spent a lot of her time at the community swimming pool in Madison, which was located right beside the Farmers Co-Op.

“Now-a-days kids think they have to go to the mall or have to be sitting in front of the TV playing video games. We never ran out of stuff to do. We also had to work. My dad believed in kids working. I would help raise the hogs, work tobacco or watermelons. We always stayed busy,” said Tracy. She also added, “I love living in this community. The people here are so good to everyone.”

Tracy is the wife of Ben Bowen and the mother of Heather Bowen.

Anyone interested in being interviewed for this article can call 973-4141 and make an appointment with Kristin Finney, or may drop by Greene Publishing, Inc. any day before noon. Those interviewed must have lived in Madison for a large portion of their life, and be able to recall a few things that have changed since that time.

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Rollover Results In Minor Injuries

December 21, 2011 Around Madison, Front Page Comments Off

By Kristin Finney
Greene Publishing, Inc.

On December 19, 2011 at approximately 3 p.m. Stephanie Nicole Lewis, accompanied by Scott Zachary Forrester, were traveling westbound along I-10. They were traveling in a 2006 Mazda.
Lewis was traveling on the inside lane when she ran off the roadway. She then overcorrected and lost control of the vehicle. The Mazda then entered the north shoulder of the highway where it overturned.
Lewis and Forrester, who both live in Georgia, sustained minor injuries. They were taken to Tallahassee Memorial Hospital.
Madison Fire Rescue and Madison Sheriffs Office responded to the collision.

Greene Publishing, Inc. Photo by Kristin Finney, December 19, 2011

Greene Publishing, Inc. Photo by Kristin Finney, December 19, 2011

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Madison Academy 5th Graders Discover The True Meaning Of Christmas

December 20, 2011 Education Comments Off

By Kristin Finney
Greene Publishing, Inc.
When it comes to celebrating Christmas, people sometimes think that the only reason for the holiday is to get presents and put up decorations. A group of Madison Academy fifth grade students decided to rediscover the true meaning of Christmas this year.
The class began their day in Chapel at school, where they were told the story of the birth of Jesus from Joseph’s point of view. They then traveled to the Madison Nursing Center to sing several Christmas songs and play BINGO with the residents. 
After they left the nursing center the class went to the Court House to give back to the “Angels.” The class took several gifts to put under the Salvation Army’s “Angel Tree.” The students were very excited to give back to those in need, and were happy to know that the gifts were going to other kids on Christmas morning.
To wind up the day, the fifth graders ate lunch at Burger King and had a cookie cake before heading back to the school.The Madison Academy fifth grade class would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

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Greenville Country Christmas Bake Off And Gingerbread House Winners

December 15, 2011 Around Madison Comments Off

By Kristin Finney

Greene Publishing, Inc.

Ready, set, bake! Each year at the Greenville Country Christmas there is a bake-off as well as a gingerbread house decorating contest. Categories for the baking contest include breads, cakes, candies, cookies and pies.

The winners in the bread category were:  Rose Thigpen, first place, Debbie Shepherd, second place, and Joyce Sales, third place.

The winners in the cake category were: Zelda Oquinn, first place, Juanita Cason, second place, and Joi Collins, third place.

The winners in the candies category were: Joyce Sales, first place, and Bali Thigpen, second and third place.

The winners in the cookies category were: Rode Thigpen, first place, Debbie Shepherd, second place, and Bali Thigpen, third place.

The winners in the pies category were: Chloe and Abby Reams, first place, and Rose Thigpen in second and third place.

Gingerbread House Decorating Contest Winners were Alexis and Wade Braswell, Lillian Day and Shelby Witmer.

The Greenville Country Christmas Committee would like to thank all of our Sponsors and everyone who helped to make Country Christmas wonderful this year.

 

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Two Chances To Give Back To Local Residents In Need

December 15, 2011 Around Madison Comments Off

By Kristin Finney

Greene Publishing, Inc.

During the holiday season, many families look for chances to give back to those in need. There are plenty of opportunities to help needy families across the country, but there are not many holiday charities that specifically help local families in need.

Now, Madison residents have two chances to give back to local families who need help this season.

The Madison County Alcohol and Other Drug Prevention Coalition along with other community partners are now accepting non-perishable food items that will be distributed to families in need during the Christmas season.

Donations of non-perishable food items can be dropped off at the Chamber Office, which is located at 248 SW Range Avenue. For more information, contact Cindy Vees at the Chamber at 973-2788.

Another opportunity to donate is being requested by Big Bend Hospice. Big Bend Hospice is requesting donations of nutritional supplements to be given to hospice patients in Madison County. Next time you go to the grocery store, pick up a six-pack of nutritional supplements to donate. Hospice patients are given nutritional supplements because they have lost their appetites for regular food or are unable to chew regular good. All flavors and any leading brand of nutritional supplement are needed.

Packs of nutritional supplements can be dropped off at the Big Bend Hospice office which is located at 225 SW Smith Street in Madison. The staff at Big Bend Hospice will deliver the supplements to the patients in need. For more information, call Michelle Brantley at Big Bend Hospice, 566-7491.

 

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