Archive for Kristin

Cowboys Finish Season 13-2: Named Florida 3A State Runners Up

December 15, 2011 Sports, Uncategorized Comments Off

By Kristin Finney

Greene Publishing, Inc.

The Madison County High School Cowboys proudly brought home the title of Florida 3A State Runners-Up following their heartbreaking defeat on Saturday, December 10 against Delray Beach American Heritage. The two teams were competing in the Florida 3A State Championship, played at the Citrus Bowl in Orlando.

Competition began at 1 p.m. and the balmy Orlando weather, combined with the nervous anticipation of the game, had both teams sweating.             The Cowboys opened up the game kicking off to American Heritage. The defense stayed strong and held American Heritage to a score of 0-0 for the first half of the game.

In the second half, American Heritage kicked off to the Cowboys. With about 11 minutes left in the third quarter, American Heritage scored, bringing the score to 7-0. Madison quickly responded with a field goal to bring the score to 7-3. American Heritage would score two more times in the third, to bring the score to 21-3.

Until the end of the fourth quarter the Cowboys were able to prevent American Heritage from scoring. Then, with about a minute left on the clock, American Heritage was able to score both a field goal and a touchdown. Due to a missed point after attempt, the final score of the game was 30-3.

While the outcome of the game did not turn out the way that both the Cowboys and their fans had hoped, that did not lessen the pride felt by everyone watching. The Cowboys finished their season with a national ranking of 173, no small feat for a school of Madison’s size. The Cowboys fought hard and remained a team throughout the game, truly living up to their “FAMILY: Forget About Me, I Love You” mindset.

During the awards ceremony following the game, the Cowboys were awarded with the title of Florida 3A State Runners-Up. The seniors were called to the podium and were presented with a trophy recognizing this prestigious honor. Each player also received a medal recognizing that they had competed in the State Championship game.

The Cowboys finished the season 13-2, with no losses at home. Few would have expected their record to be so strong following the loss of their first regular season game against Colquitt County. This was their first and only loss during the regular season.

The Cowboys would rebound from that loss by defeating their next 13 opponents. During the regular season they defeated Suwannee 40-8, Jefferson County 42-7, Trinity Christian 27-7, Taylor County 55-14, Providence 47-0, Pine Forest 42-21, Pensacola Catholic 49-6, Gainesville 21-17 and Florida High 39-13.

In the first round of play-offs, they defeated Episcopal 45-3. In the second round they trampled Trinity Christian 42-0. They then beat Trinity Catholic 14-0 in the third round of playoffs.

During regular season the Cowboys scored a total of 382 points, but only had 112 points scored on them. During playoffs the Cowboys scored 104 points against their opponents, but only had 33 points scored against them, 30 of which came from American Heritage.

Congratulations on a great season Cowboys, and on being named the Florida 3A State Runners-Up!

 

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Third Annual MACOHI Holiday Invitational Slated

December 15, 2011 Sports Comments Off

By Kristin Finney

Greene Publishing, Inc.

As Christmas approaches, so does the annual MACOHI Holiday Invitational. This year’s invitational will be held on December 21-23 at the Madison County High School gymnasium. This year’s invitational consists of 16 teams, eight boys and eight girls, who will compete in a three-day tournament.

The girls teams competing this year are 2010 Champions University Christian, Bluffton High School, Bishop Kenny, Miami Senior High School, Branford High School and Suwannee High School.

Teams competing on the boys side are International Community School, Episcopal High School, Jefferson County High School, Lincoln High School, R.F. Munroe High School, Hamilton County High School and Melody Christian High School.

Games will begin at 9 a.m. each day. The cost for a day pass is $7, or you can purchase a full three-day pass for $15 that will get you into every game.

Sponsors are still needed for the Hospitality Room and Awards.

For more information please contact Eddie Richie at 973-5421 ext. 187 or Marcus Hawkins at 673-7928.

Please come out and show your support for the Cowboy and Cowgirl basketball teams.

 

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The Perfect Gift: Blood Blood – Donations Needed This Holiday Season

December 13, 2011 Uncategorized Comments Off

By Kristin Finney
Greene Publishing, Inc.

Each year as the temperature falls and many people spend their days hiding from the winter chill, the amount of blood donations made also drops. This occurrence happens each year around this time, however, there is a simple fix for it. Many people often wonder how to give back during the holiday season, why not give blood?

Blood donations are needed every day, and a single blood donation can save as many as three lives. While over 38% of the American population is eligible to donate blood, only about 8% actually do. Donations of all blood types are needed, especially during the holiday season. 

Some might ask, “Why is more blood needed during the holidays?” Families are more likely to travel during the holiday season to visit relatives and to go see holiday festivals, this increase in people traveling, also leads to an increase in accidents. 

While some people choose to work in soup kitchens and homeless shelters during the holidays, this is not the only way to give back during the holidays. Working in soup kitchens is a great ministry for those with the time to do so, however, for those who are limited on free time, a simple way to give back is by donating blood. Donating blood takes only 30-45 minutes. That includes the sign-in and health evaluation prior to giving blood. The actual blood giving only lasts about 10 minutes of that time. 

Not sure if you can give blood? Below are the eligibility guidelines given by the UCSF Medical Center. 

“Age: You must be at least 17 years old to donate to the general blood supply. There is no upper age limit for blood donation as long as you are well with no restrictions or limitations to your activities.

“High Blood Pressure: Acceptable as long as your blood pressure is below 180 systolic (first number) and below 100 diastolic (second number) at the time of donation. Medications for high blood pressure do not disqualify you from donating.

“Body Piercing: You must not donate if you have had a tongue, nose, belly button or genital piercing in the past 12 months (donors with pierced ears are eligible).

“Cold and Flu: Wait if you have a fever or a productive cough (bringing up phlegm). Wait if you do not feel well on the day of donation. Wait until you have completed antibiotic treatment for sinus, throat or lung infection.

“Diabetes: Acceptable as long as it is well controlled, whether medication is taken or not.

“Diet: A meal is recommended at least four hours prior to donation. Drink plenty of fluids.

“MSM: Men who have had sex with other men, at any time since 1977 (the beginning of the AIDS epidemic in the United States) are currently deferred as blood donors. This is because MSM are, as a group, at increased risk for HIV, hepatitis B and certain other infections that can be transmitted by transfusion.

“Tattoos: One-year deferral.

“Travel: Please refer to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. If you need further assistance please call UCSF Blood Center (415) 353-1809.

“Weight: You must weigh at least 110 pounds to be eligible for blood donation for your own safety. Blood volume is in proportion to body weight. Donors who weigh less than 110 pounds may not tolerate the removal of the required volume of blood as well as those who weigh more than 110 pounds. There is no upper weight limit as long as your weight is not higher than the weight limit of the donor bed or lounge you are using. You can discuss any upper weight limitations of beds and lounges with your local health historian.”
If you would like to give back to those in need this holiday season, simply set up an appointment at a local blood drive. There will be blood drives in the southeast all throughout December. To find a donation opportunity near you, visit http://www.-redcrossblood.org/make-donation. Type in your zip code into the Zip Code box, select within 50 or 100 miles, and press “Find.” Once you find a date and location that suits your needs, call 1-800-RED-CROSS to schedule your appointment.

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Two Cowboys Selected For All Star Game: One Will Compete

December 13, 2011 Sports Comments Off

By Kristin Finney

Greene Publishing, Inc.

Following the heartbreaking loss against American Heritage in the Citrus Bowl on Saturday December 10, two Cowboys were given a once in a lifetime opportunity. Both Tevin Roundtree and Deshawntee Gallon were selected to play in the North and South FACA All Star Game.

Gallon will be unable to participate in the game due to a knee injury sustained during the state game. However, Roundtree will be participating in the game on December 21.

The Madison County players were two of only 88 players in the whole state chosen to participate in the game. This is a high honor that many football players do not get to be a part of.

The North and South FACA All Star Game will be played at Fireman’s Field in Sebring, Fla. Competition will begin at 7 p.m.

 

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Woman Dies From Pit Bull Attack In Lowndes County

December 12, 2011 Front Page, Uncategorized Comments Off

By Kristin Finney

Greene Publishing, Inc.

A woman with ties to Madison County, died on Thursday afternoon in Lowndes County after being attacked by her neighbor’s pit bull.

Misti Wyno had gone to visit her neighbors shortly after 12:30 p.m. on Thursday. The neighbors residence was at 4686 Mount Zion Road. According to reports, Wyno was visiting in order to borrow some grits.

Wyno was bitten several times after the neighbors’ male pit bull either broke its chain or was unchained. The dog bit her several times on her legs, arms and head said Waler Wacter, Lowndes County deputy coroner.

Police were called to the scene at approximately 12:45 p.m. according to Sheriff Chris Prine. Upon arriving at the residence they discovered Wyno, who was severely injured. They also discovered the dog’s owner restraining the male pit bull.

Wyno was transported to South Georgia Medical Center, where she was pronounced dead at 1:54 p.m., according to Wacter.

The names of the owners of the dogs have not been released. However, it has been reported that the family owned the male pit bull and a female pit bull. Both animals have been taken into custody at the Lowndes County Animal Control center.

According to Lowndes County Manager Joe Pritchard, the same owners of the male pit bull have had a previous complained filed against them by a neighbor concerning a female pit bull earlier this year.

The Valdosta Daily Times reported, “A neighbor’s young son had entered the yard uninvited and tried to pull a newborn puppy from the dog. The dog bit the boy once on the cheek. The dog was quarantined for a month at the Animal Shelter and determined not to be a threat.”

The dog from Thursday’s attack was not the same pit bull.

The dog’s owners are distraught and have asked the county’s shelter director, Linda Patelski, to put both the male and the female pit bull down.

Sheriff’s investigators are working the case, according to Prine. He said, “We’re trying to determine what went wrong and why, and who was responsible. Charges could be forthcoming.”

 

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Remembrance Of Things Past: Doyle Glass

December 8, 2011 History Comments Off

By Kristin Finney
Greene Publishing, Inc.
Having moved to Madison only 10 years ago, some might say that Dolye Glass’s appreciation for the changes in Madison are slim. However, that is far from true. When Glass moved to Madison from Port St. Joe, he was following a job opportunity at Madison Church of God. Glass has been the Pastor there ever since.

However, coming to Madison 10 years ago was not Glass’s first time in Madison. He had actually lived here for two years in 1976. He came to Madison in 1976 to take a job at the First Assembly of God Church.

He recalls that when he first moved to Madison there were several stores and buildings that are no longer here. One memory is of Norris Pharmacy in downtown Madison, even before the remodeling of their building. Another memory of downtown is when Stone Fox used to be where the Madison County Community Bank is currently.

Glass remembers when Burger King was a shut down car dealership and before CVS was sitting across the street, there was an old Pic’n Save building. He remembers when Madison didn’t have a Fred’s and when the building that currently holds Hungry Howie’s and Subway wasn’t there.

Living in Madison has given Glass a great appreciation for the people here. “I love the people here. They are very good people and are very easy to get along with,” he explained. He loves the church that he works at and the people who attend there. He also enjoys spending his mornings with the men of the town at Burger King. This is something he has done for years, even back when they used to meet at McDonalds. He also enjoys hunting and fishing.

Another activity that Glass does for fun is watching Cowboy football. He has a grandson, Morgan Carter, who plays for the Cowboys. Glass has watched Cowboy football since he moved to Madison and has seen them make it to the playoffs several times. He has also seen them go to state two times, this year will be his third. He remembers that they won one of the state games and lost the other. He will be rooting them on this Saturday in their state game.

Doyle Glass and his wife Sherry have three children. They have one daughter, Jennifer Herndon, who lives in Madison. She has two sons, Morgan and Levi Carter. They have one daughter who lives in Perry named Vickie Rich. She has three children, Benjamin, Catie and Christopher Anderson. They also have one son who lives in Mt. Olive, N.C., who has three daughters, Allison, Ashley and Alexis Glass.

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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United Way Hosts Annual Appreciation Event

December 6, 2011 Around Madison Comments Off

By Kristin Finney
Greene Publishing, Inc.
The United Way of Madison works hard each and every year to raise money for local and national charities in attempt to make the world a better place. While the money that they receive is given with that in mind, it does not hurt to thank those who have made the donation. To thank those who have donated $500 or more to the United Way, the UWBB hosts an appreciation event each year.

This year’s event took place at the Madison Senior Center on November 29. The theme for this year was sweet treats and the dining hall in the senior center was decorated accordingly. Large decorative candies were placed throughout the hall, and blue and yellow (the United Way’s identifying colors) decorations were placed sporadically in the hall.

The meal consisted of fondue, cookies, brownies, cupcakes, grapes, cheese, crackers and coffee. Everyone in attendance was sure to have a great time talking with the United Way team members and discussing the plans for the rest of this year and next year.

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MCHS Cowboy Basketball Looks Forward To A Great Season

December 6, 2011 Sports Comments Off

By Kristin Finney
Greene Publishing, Inc.
As the temperature drops and football season draws to a close, that can only mean one thing…basketball season has arrived. Madison County High School has been preparing for this basketball season for over a month now. The boys have been running drills, surviving difficult practices and overcoming many obstacles. This year’s team will have many more obstacles to face as they continue through the season.

Currently, the MCHS varsity boys’ basketball roster has 10 juniors, one senior and one sophomore. However, the roster won’t be final until football season ends. The 10 juniors currently on the roster are: Trey Johnson, Davontay Stephens, *Octavious Fayson, *Chris O’Hara, *Tre Arnold, *Brandon Vought, *Neal Brown, *DJ McKnight, *Laterrius Davis and Israel Snowden. Deontay Jones is the only senior on the team, and Coddrick Griffin is the only sophomore.

Eddie Richie, Cowboys’ head coach, said of this year’s team “As you can see from the roster, we are pretty young. Only one senior is on the team so far, and he hasn’t played before but he is coming along just fine. Last year’s varsity team got better as the year went along. Those guys were all young last year and built some quality experience in games and in practice. Also, almost everyone you see worked very hard over the summer, some of them splitting time with football and baseball workouts. Another bonus is last year’s JV squad went an amazing 19-1. Coach Allen Demps does a stand-up job preparing these young men for varsity competition and life in general.

“Another challenge we have this year is more than half of our roster is still out on the football field. We support them 100%, but we still are eager to complete our roster…as any coach would be. Some JV players are filling in for the ones plaing football while they are on their way to State and may be able to earn a spot. Ivan Johnson, Chris Fead, Jaylon Hazzard, Ladarious Robinson, and Seth Molnar have all had some time playing with varsity this year until our roster is complete. This helps them build some much-needed experience for when they are ready to move up. Other JV players include Shayon Davis, Javon Redding, Javen Butler, Mike Hodge, Trey Jonas and Jarkevious Blachshear. Of course, other JV players are still playing football as well. Some of those include Dee Oliver, Dee Wells, DeAndre Miller, Brice Hamilton and Akevious Williams. We will have another tryout once football is over in a couple weeks to give everyone a fair shot to those who we haven’t seen play yet.”

However, don’t let the age of this team make you doubt them. Richie had this to say about the strength of his team, “As a person and a coach, I am an odd combination of an optimist and a realist. That being said, I feel very confident that we can be successful with the team we have. We have size (Octavious Fayson is 6’7” and Tre Arnold, Davontay Stephens, Israel Snowden and Brandon Vought are all around 6’3” to 6’4”). We have speed and athletes everywhere. We have some great shooters and a solid defense. We may not a have a ton of varsity experience, but this group works well together. They pick each other up and they correct each other when needed. We have some players who are learning how to lead as well. They worked this summer playing a few dozen games together in the Madison Summer League, Perry Summer League and two team camps. I think we may go through some growing pains until we fill our roster and at first when we get everyone, but come January we’ll surprise some people. This group truly enjoys playing together and just being around each other in general.”

 The boys basketball season kicked off against Lincoln on November 22. The second game of the season was against Maclay on November 29. They played Brooks County in a Pack The Gym game on December 2 and Hamilton County on December 3. They will play Taylor County on December 9 at 8 p.m. in Taylor County. They then play Godby at home on December 13 at 7:30. Then the next two games on their schedule are away at 7:30 p.m. They play East Gadsden on December 15, and Suwannee on December 17.

To kick off the new year the boys will play Brooks County away on January 7 at 7:30 p.m. They will travel again on January 10 to Florida State University, that game begins at 7:30 p.m. They will play East Gadsden at home on January 12 at 7:30 p.m. Then they will play Taylor County at home on January 13 at 8 p.m. On January 19 they will travel to Godby to plat at 7 p.m. They will then play Jefferson County at home on January 20, at 7 p.m. On January 21, at 7:30 p.m., they have an away game at Hamilton County. They will play at 7:30 p.m. January 24 at home against Florida State University. On January 27 they play Suwannee at home at 8 p.m., they then travel to Jefferson on January 28 to play at 7:30 p.m. On January 31, they travel to Maclay to play at 7 p.m. and then On February 3, they travel to Baker County in the last regular season game, which begins at 7:30 p.m.

Richie had this to say about the Cowboys’ schedule, “Our district includes Godby, East Gadsden, Taylor County, and Florida High all of which have talented rosters. Especially Godby. They boast a top 10 pre-season ranking in class 4A. Some say they have a good chance to win state. I say, so do we. But our ultimate basketball goal is to win every day. Take things one day at a time and not look to far ahead. Win every practice, win every drill; win every possession by giving full effort in all that we do. We feel that if we do that, then hopefully our hard work will be rewarded with success at the end of the year.”

He also added, “As always, we appreciate all the support. I am looking forward to successful year.”

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Make Plans Now For Church Christmas Programs

December 2, 2011 Church Comments Off

By Kristin Finney
Greene Publishing, Inc.

The holiday season has arrived, and with it comes many blessings. One blessing that many churches in the county choose to share are their Christmas Cantatas and plays. Below are the schedules of Christmas Canatas and plays at some of the churches in Madison.
Madison First Baptist will host their Christmas Cantata on December 11 at 6 p.m. followed by a church social. Their candlelight Christmas Eve service will begin at 5 p.m. and a special Christmas morning service on Christmas day at 11 a.m.
Midway Church of God will be hosting their Christmas play on December 18 at 6 p.m.
First United Methodist Church of Madison will be hosting their Christmas Cantata “Lead Me To Bethlehem” on December 11 at 11 a.m. They will be hosting a Christmas Eve candlelight and communion service at 6 p.m. and a Christmas morning service at 11 a.m. Christmas day.
Lee United Methodist will be hosting their children’s Christmas program on December 11 at 10 a.m.
Midway Baptist will have their Christmas program Wednesday evening, Dec. 21, beginning at 7 p.m. Following a meal at 7, the program will begin. Also, the church will host a candlelight service on Christmas Eve at 7 p.m.
Greenville Baptist will be having a special candlelight service at 6 p.m on Christmas Eve.
New Home Baptist will be having their Christmas program at 6 p.m. on Sunday evening, Dec. 18.
Lee First Baptist will be holding their Christmas cantata Sunday evening, Dec. 18, a 7 p.m.
Madison Church of God will hold a cantata entitled The Night Before Christmas directed by Wayne Diamond on Sunday morning, Dec. 18, at 11 a.m. and that evening at 6 p.m.
Anyone interested in getting the dates and times of their Christmas program in the newspaper can email them to Kristin@greenepublishing.com or call Kristin at (850) 973-4141.

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Remembrance Of Things Past: Gerald Anderson

December 1, 2011 Around Madison, History Comments Off

By Kristin Finney
Greene Publishing, Inc.
When it comes to the history of Madison’s public school system, there are many names that come to mind. One of the names that many people might recall is Gerald Anderson. Anderson served as principal for Madison Primary School, Pinetta Elementary School and Madison Middle School throughout his career. Most of his time was spent at the Madison Primary School. He worked at the Primary School for five years at the beginning of his career. It was actually that job that brought him to Madison from Nebraska. After leaving the Primary School, Anderson worked for Pinetta for one year and the Middle School for seven years. He then returned to Madison Primary School, where he retired almost eight years later.

Throughout Anderson’s time in Madison there have been many changes made to the schools throughout the county. Anderson recalls when they changed Madison Primary School to Kindergarten through third grade, from Kindergarten through sixth grade. He also remembers when they built Madison County Central School to replace the old primary school and when the old middle school closed down.

Anderson recalls spending his free time playing golf at the Madison Country Club. “I played usually twice a week,” he explained. He also remembers playing tennis at North Florida Community College on a regular basis. He even competed in tennis tournaments at the college. Now Anderson spends his free time fishing on the Gulf.

Another thing that Anderson has seen change are prices. He remembers when fruits and vegetables were far less expensive than they are now. He also remembers when gas was less than half the price it is now and the same with milk. However, not all of the changes that Anderson has seen have been bad. Anderson believes that Madison as a whole has improved a lot over the years. “The roads are nicer and there are neat places to eat,” he stated.

Anderson has three children with his ex-wife Charlotte Cason. Their children are Michael (Mike), Karen Hackett and Linda Smart.

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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Becky’s Dancers Shine Bright At Dance Competition

November 23, 2011 Around Madison Comments Off

By Kristin Finney

Greene Publishing, Inc.

With dance bags, dance shoes, hairspray and tights in tow, the girls from Becky’s Dance Step Studios set off for Mobile in hopes of bringing home the gold, and that is exactly what they did. The group of 17 talented dancers performed in a total of nine dances and brought home six second place, and three first place trophies.

The group consisted of Emma Grace Newman, Regan Crosby, Zaria Straughter, Savanna Edwards, Savanna Wilford, Summer Langell, Brittany Edwards, Haley Rogers, Erin Jarvis, Pazlei Jenkins, Celina Quintana, Amelia Blanton, Kendal Wilson, Brigitte Blanton, Cheltsie Kinsley, Elainie Jarvis and April Bishop.

They performed to Baby Take A Bow (second place), Car Wash (first place), Broadway Baby (second place), Your Heart Will Lead You Home (second place), Hit The Road Jack (second place), Dive In The Pool (second place), Rustles Of Spring (first place), The Impossible Dream (second place) and Whiskey In The Well (first place). Also, Car Wash, which was performed by Savanna Edwards, Zaria Straughter and Savanna Wilford won the Best Of category trophy in the Junior Duo-Trio Division.

Mrs. Becky Robinson said of her girls, “I am very proud of my dancers and how well they did at Dance Makers Inc. in Mobile because they represented our community and my studio in such a positive way, not only in their outstanding performances, but also in their friendly attitude towards their fellow competitors and in their good behavior during the classes they attended as well.  These girls spend countless hours at the studio practicing and perfecting their competition routines and it is very rewarding to see all of their hard work and dedication pay off.”

However, Becky was not alone in helping teach the girls. She shared, “Although the dance team remained under my watchful eye throughout their two months of rehearsals in preparation for this competition, I “passed the torch” as Dance Team Director (after over 20 years) to former dance team member herself, Toni Blanton.  I am very proud of her leadership skills and the fact that she was so willing to share what she learned from her experience as a former team member with the next generation of dancers as we train them.”

All of the dances that Becky’s team took qualified to go to Nationals in Myrtle Beach. Congratulations on your success, girls!

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Remembrance Of Things Past: Tom Ray Kelley

November 23, 2011 History Comments Off

By Kristin Finney

Greene Publishing, Inc.

Whether it was spending time at Crossroads or playing football at Greenville High School, Tom Ray Kelley’s memories of Madison County are extensive. While Kelley no longer lives in Madison County, he continues to hold fond memories of the county that he was raised in.

Kelley came to Madison County in 1939. He entered the first grade in 1942 and attended Greenville Elementary School. He then went to Greenville High School where he played football and basketball. He was also a member of the FFA and 4-H clubs. Many of Kelley’s memories of Madison County are focused in Greenville. He recalls hanging out at the Crossroads Restaurant when he was in school. He also remembers Cooks Sawmill.

While most children nowadays spend their time playing video games or watching TV, Kelley’s childhood was not so easy. Kelley grew up on a dairy farm and twice a day, seven days a week he would milk and tend to the cows. For fun, Kelley and his friends would do something outside. Sometimes they would go fishing or hunting. They would go squirrel or coon hunting during their free time.

After graduation, Kelley worked several companies. He was a service manager for Ford Company as well as Cantey Motor Company. He also built for Ken Johnson for 22 years. Then in 1970, Kelley was saved and decided to dedicate his life to the Lord. Kelley has preached for New Macedonia, Mount Olive on Hwy 53 and in Georgia as well.

Kelley and his wife Sandy, have been married since 1960. They have three daughters, two granddaughters, one grandson, one great granddaughter and two step-grandsons.

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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Second Annual Chili Challenge Slated

November 17, 2011 Around Madison Comments Off

By Kristin Finney
Greene Publishing, Inc.

Cool weather, longer nights, what better way to warm up than with a hot bowl of chili? The second annual Madison County Chili Challenge has been set and this year’s event is expected to be even bigger than last year’s.
The cook-off will be held on Saturday December 3, during the 2011 Light Up Madison Downtown Christmas. The downtown Christmas event will be from 6-9 p.m. The judging for the chili cook-off will be held at 7 p.m. The winners will be announced at 8 p.m. All who enter will receive a free chili cook-off t-shirt.
The cost per entry is $20. All winners will receive a cash prize. For more information on the cook-off call 973-2788. Applications and information is available at the Greater Madison County Chamber of Commerce, which is located at 248 SW Range Ave.

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Madison Academy Volleyball Celebrates Winning Season

November 15, 2011 Sports Comments Off

By Kristin Finney

Greene Publishing, Inc.

Madison County would like to congratulate the girls from the Madison Academy Volleyball for have a great season. The Madison Academy volleyball team ended their season with a winning record of 9-5 playing their last game against Corinth on Halloween night, October 31.

While the Academy volleyball team might have been young, that didn’t stop them from having a great season. There were 14 girls on this year’s team: four fifth graders, five sixth graders, four seventh graders and only one eighth grader. Each girl got to play every single game, something that many teams can’t say.

The captain for the Academy this year is Katelyn McCamman, and the co-caption changes each week. The head coach this year is Cathy Rogers, Assistant Coach is Julie Townsend and scorekeeper is Melissa McCamman.

Cathy Rogers, head coach for the Madison Academy volleyball girls said of her team, “The improvement that the players have shown is amazing!  I couldn’t be more proud of these girls and how they had to dig deep and come from behind in most games to earn a win.  The teamwork they exhibited throughout the season was an asset for sure!  My goal is to continue working with these girls and sign up for a volleyball camp this summer!

 

 

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Lake Park of Madison Selling Boston Butt Dinners

November 10, 2011 Front Page Comments Off

By Kristin Finney

Greene Publishing, Inc.

Lake Park of Madison will be kicking off the Relay for Life season early this year and they are asking for the support of the community. On Friday, December 2, the team will be handing out dinners and Boston butts that have been preordered.

For those interested in purchasing a Boston butt dinner, the cost is $5.00. For those interested in purchasing an entire Boston butt to perhaps save for Christmas or New Years, the cost is $25.00. These meals and butts will be available from 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m. on Friday, December 2. For more information, call (850) 973-8277. Order sheets can be faxed to 973-3648. The deadline for orders is November 21 at noon.

 

 

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Greenville Man Arrested For Brooks County Murder

November 10, 2011 Front Page Comments Off

By Kristin Finney

Greene Publishing, Inc.

Truseno Al Neely, 28, of Greenville and Kevin Fountain, 26, of Brooks County, Ga., have both been arrested and charged with felony murder. The investigation on the murder was launched on Saturday afternoon, November 5. The murder victim has been identified as Shelton Brooks, 39. The two men were brought in and questioned Saturday evening for unrelated events. At around noon on Monday the two suspects were officially arrested.

Both men are being held without bond in the Brooks County Jail. Neely was previously arrested for attempted robbery in Greenville. He had been incarcerated for 10 years on those charges and was released from prison only a few months ago.

 

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Remembrance Of Things Past: Paul Braswell

November 10, 2011 History Comments Off

By Kristin Finney

Greene Publishing, Inc.

The Braswell family has been a large part of Madison County for many years. Paul Braswell is no exception, and he has certainly made his mark on this county. Paul was born and raised in Greenville. His father was a merchant who owned several stores ranging from a grocery store to a feed store, and even a furniture store. To the community he was known as Red Braswell.

Paul learned a lot about living from his dad, and followed in his footsteps a great deal. Paul owned the Crossroads Restaurant and Service Station in Greenville. Back in that time, Crossroads was the hangout of choice for school kids and families.

Back in those days, Greenville was a happening place. There were four mills going every day and there were several stores for locals to shop at. Even through hard times, Greenville maintained its small town and thriving feel. The Bank of Greenville was so powerful that it didn’t bust during the depression.

When he was growing up, Paul attended Greenville High School. In high school he was a member of the FFA and was even the president his senior year. That is a quality that runs in the family, Paul’s son-in-law Ed Sapp, and grandson, Clay Sapp, were both Presidents of the FFA their senior years of high school. Clay was also the President of the FFA for the state of Florida. Paul spent much of his high school career doing activities with the FFA. He showed hogs and steers during the cattle show in Madison every year. He also played football when he was in high school.

Paul has always been involved in community activities. He served on the school board from 1976-1986. He belongs to the Methodist church in Greenville. Paul married the love of his life, Kathleen, and they have three children together: Gina, Robin and Paul Jr.

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