Archive for March 2011

William Pinckney Throgmorton

March 29, 2011 Obituaries 2 comments

William Pinckney Throgmorton, age 82, died Sunday, March 27, 2011, at South Georgia Medical Center in Valdosta, Ga.
He was born on July 26, 1928, in Herrin, Ill., to parents, Norman Throgmorton, Sr. and Florence Reynolds Throgmorton, who preceded him in death. Also preceding him was a daughter, Deborah Jordon and son, William Rogers Throgmorton; a brother, Norman Throgmorton, Jr.; and sons, Lois Carrie and Idis Shirley.
He graduated in 1946 from Herrin High School and immediately joined the United States Air Force, serving as a Weather Equipment Technician, retiring in 1966 as a Master Sergeant.
He then worked as a Weather Technician for Pan Am Airlines in the West Indies for 20 years, where he and his former wife, Margaret Costner, lived before coming to Florida, where she later died.
He is survived by his wife, Margaret Houston Throgmorton of Madison; sons, Gary Sailer, of Madison, and Douglas Craw (Tamara) of Epsom, N.H.; sister, Avis Rhodes, of Rome, Ga.; many nieces and nephews; and extended family, David Houston and daughter, Noella Houston.
He was a loving husband and father and a faithful member of Rocky Springs United Methodist Church in Madison.
Visitation will be Wednesday, March 30, 2011, from 5-8 p.m. at Beggs Funeral Home. The memorial service will be Thursday, March 31, 2011, at 11 a.m., at Rocky Springs United Methodist Church on Rocky Springs Road.
Memorials may be made to Rocky Springs United Methodist Church Maintenance Fund, P.O. Box 513, Madison, FL 32341; Florida United Methodist Children’s Home, 51 Children’s Way, Enterprise, FL 32725, or a charity of your choice.

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Nellie Mae Day

March 29, 2011 Obituaries Comments Off

Mrs. Nellie Mae Day, 91, died March 24, 2011, in Madison.
Funeral services were held at  11 a.m., Sunday, March 27, 2011 in the chapel of Beggs Funeral Home in Madison with interment to follow in Evergreen Cemetery in Greenville.
The family received friends 6-8 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home. Donations may be made to Big Bend Hospice.
She was born and raised in Greenville. She received her Bachelor’s Degree from Florida State and began her teaching career first at Sirmans School, then Greenville Elementary School, retiring after 34 years. She was a member of St. Johns Baptist Church in Greenville.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Alvin Day, and her daughter, Lenora Edmonston.
She is survived by two sons, Morris Day (Sarah) and Shelby Day (Suzanne) both of Greenville; a daughter, Nellie Hamrick (Dan) of DeFuniak Springs; three sisters, Irene Waldroff, Gussie Joyner, and  Corine Simmons, all of Greenville; 10 grandchildren; and 14 great grandchildren.
Beggs Funeral Home, Madison Chapel, was in charge of arrangements.

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Community Celebrates Grand Opening Of Best Western PLUS

March 29, 2011 Around Madison Comments Off
Friends, family and dignitaries look on as General Manager Craig Waldrop (holding scissors) prepares to “cut the ribbon.” Elizabeth Waring, standing next to Lucas Waring, holds the left end of the ribbon while Darlisa Williams holds the right end.

Friends, family and dignitaries look on as General Manager Craig Waldrop (holding scissors) prepares to “cut the ribbon.” Elizabeth Waring, standing next to Lucas Waring, holds the left end of the ribbon while Darlisa Williams holds the right end.

By Lynette Norris
Greene Publishing, Inc.
A thin, smoky haze from a wildfire several miles away got a couple of comments from people, but it wasn’t enough to put a damper on the fun at the Best Western PLUS Madison Inn’s Grand Opening, Friday, March 25.
Friends, relatives, representatives of the Madison County Chamber of Commerce and other dignitaries were there to congratulate new owners Lucas and Elizabeth Waring and General Manager Craig Waldrop, wishing them luck and success.
Even the Best Western #00 Street Car, identical to the car driven for the Best Western franchise by NASCAR Driver David Reutimann, put in an appearance for the occasion and proved to be quite popular.  Guests at Friday’s event posed beside the car and had their pictures taken behind the wheel.
Owner Lucas Waring took everyone on a tour, first to the facility’s pool area, where old weathered awnings and other worn-looking items have been replaced to give the area a fresh, new look.  Inside, the 90s décor has been updated with new crown molding and new carpet.  The floor in the meeting area is a ceramic tile that looks exactly like old wooden plank flooring, and throughout the facility, the generic beige walls have been brightened with a warmer, richer palette of saffron and pumpkin colors.  Each room, instead of being painted all one color, now has an accent wall of a different hue behind the beds.  Each one also now has a new flat-screen TV, in addition to microwave, mini-fridge, and other standard amenities.
The meeting room boasts a breakfast bar with a rotating selection of items, so that guests who stay more than one night will have different choices each morning; and should they overindulge in one or more menu items, there is a fitness center just down the hall, with everything needed to stay in shape while traveling.
For this Grand Opening event, the meeting area tables were loaded with pastries and goodies of all sorts.  Friends and family sampled homemade refreshments as well as trying out the tempting breakfast bar.
Just outside the front entrance, the star of the show, the Best Western #00 Toyota Camry Street Car parked under the breezeway, gathered a slew of admirers.
“As a member of the Best Western worldwide family, we are proud to partner with Michael Waltrip racing,” said Craig Waldrop, General Manager, adding that the franchise has a number of on-going special offers and programs for racing fans – North America’s fastest growing sport.  In 2004, Best Western launched Speed Rewards, a free, frequent-guest program designed specifically for race fans.  Members can earn free nights anywhere in the world, as well as dining and shopping certificates, and are eligible for special sweepstakes and promotional offerings.
Located at 167 SE Bandit St., the Best Western PLUS Madison Inn offers 58 rooms to accommodate guests in total comfort.  Contact Best Western PLUS Madison Inn directly at 850-973-2020 or call Best Western’s 24 hour toll-free reservation number at 1 (800) WESTERN, or visit the web site at www.bestwestern.com

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Man Bicycles Through Town Raising Funds For Mission

March 29, 2011 Around Madison, Church Comments Off
Steve Rife (left) peddled his way from Mission Beach, San Diego, CA to Daytona Beach, in order to raise funds and awareness about the mission program in Gaitu, Kenya, Africa, for drilling wells, building pumping systems, teaching the people about water filtration systems and providing them with a medical clinic. Jay Fraleigh (right) and his family became the host family for Rife, as he traveled on his journey, through Madison.

By Fran Hunt
Special from ECB Publishing
A California man recently peddled his way through Madison on his bicycle on a very unique and selfless mission, to raise funds to provide an under-developed area in Kenya with not only fresh drinking water, but also providing them with the know-how on how to obtain it. That man is Steve Rife, 31, a member of the Covenant United Methodist Church in San Diego, CA.
Rife departed Mission Beach, San Diego, CA January 2 and peddled for 2,800 miles before reaching Madison in late February. During his travels, he made 36 stops with host families set up by the church. Those families would provide him with a shower, dinner, and a place to sleep.
While he was at the host’s home, he would often speak to different community groups, charity organizations, media, schools, etc. about the mission he was on. During his venture he also worked on raising funds for the mission.
“The purpose is raising funds and awareness about the mission program in Gaitu, Kenya, Africa, for drilling wells, building pumping systems, teaching the people about water filtration systems and providing them with a medical clinic,” said Rife.
“Many developing countries are full of citizens whose basic needs for life are unmet. Clean water is a resource that many people do not see as a luxury. However, there are so many men, women and children who suffer from the illnesses that are contracted through unclean and unsafe drinking water,” he added.
“The Mwangaza Mission started as a vision of Rev. Dr. Joyce Nki (FSU Doctorate in Philosophy and Religious Studies) and former resident of Gaitu, Kenya. It has become the mission at Covenant UMC, alongside Dr. Nki, to host a project to drill a well and provide clean water and a medical clinic for a community in Gaitu, Kenya.
In a 2008 exploratory mission trip to Gaitu, the government granted land for the building of a medical clinic. We believe, that with your help, we can provide life through clean water and a medical clinic to these citizens who currently have to walk miles to a creek to get dirty water and medical treatment,” said Rife.

Steve Rife (left) peddled his way from Mission Beach, San Diego, CA to Daytona Beach, in order to raise funds and awareness about the mission program in Gaitu, Kenya, Africa, for drilling wells, building pumping systems, teaching the people about water filtration systems and providing them with a medical clinic. Jay Fraleigh (right) and his family became the host family for Rife, as he traveled on his journey, through Madison.

In order to raise funds for the water project Rife was inspired to ride a bike across the US to raise awareness and funding for this project. He is committed to the goal of raising $75,000 for the project.  By the time he reached Madison, he had raised $44,000.
After spending the night in Madison with a host family, Jay and Donna Fraleigh, he continued on his route to Gainesville, Ocala, and ended the original trip on February 27 in Daytona Beach. He had peddled for 56 days and a total of 3,100 miles. During that time, Rife had raised $56,720.60 for the mission.
While in the area, since he had not yet reached his goal, he decided to extend his trip and veer up the east coast from Daytona to Augusta, Maine. “When I set out with a goal I’m not one to stop until I reach it,” said Rife.
“That trip will take me about one month and hopefully the extra month will give people the initiative to donate and help me reach my goal,” he concluded.
To donate go to jesusatcovenant.org or howfarforwater.org.

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Nfcc Art Department Announces New Exhibit For April

March 29, 2011 Around Madison Comments Off

A Dialogue of Space Described features works by artists
Joyce Speechley and Jonathan Jacquet

A Dialogue of Space Described is showing at North Florida Community College’s Hardee Center for the Arts throughout the month of April and features works by artists Joyce Speechley and Jonathan Jacquet. A reception will be held Tuesday, April 5 from 12 Noon-1:30 p.m. to celebrate the new exhibit. All are invited to attend.
Joyce Speechley is a professor at the Illinois Institute of Art and Columbia College. Her works are a study in movement and value, featuring an extensive range of landscapes. Her featured gray-scaled series of works is based upon the ideals and concepts derived from the principles of Daoism, inviting the viewer to become one with nature. Moved to portray the dynamic between atmospheric humidity and the qualities of light within the natural landscape, these works are produced in a unique method. Using fumage, a surrealist technique in which the impressions of a candle or kerosene lantern produce marks on paper, Speechley’s work references the qualities of fine charcoal drawings with a more lasting permanence. This contradiction is repeated in her subject, the momentary glimmer of light produced by fog, mist and other forms of atmospheric moisture. The science of timing is obvious in the selection of subject compositions and in the range of values present in the works. Starting with a sketch of a place in which solitude and a sense of communion with the natural space exist, Speechley evolves her work using layers of graphite, graphite powder and fumage.
Artist Jonathan Jacquet is a professor at the University of Georgia in Athens, Ga. At the age of five, Jacquet lost the vision in his left eye, which created a condition called Acquired Monocular Vision (AMV). His current body of work explores the effects of this condition, including Stereo-Blindness (lacking the ability to read spatial cues with two eyes; Stereopsis).
“The Stereo-blind do not have this perception of form, so the navigation of space is more of a challenge,” said Jacquet. “In order to walk through a room, without bumping into things, the Stereo-blind needs to read other spatial cues for depth perception. These cues leave a map in my mind. A fascination with Monocular Cures and vision has inspired this work. Monocular vision reinforces many guidelines of representational drawing, such as the establishing a station point. This current body of work explores devices that provide concrete representations of these concepts for others to reinforce their own representational drawing skills. When viewing my work I strongly encourage the viewer to close one eye.”
New exhibits are featured monthly at the Hardee Center for the Arts during NFCC’s fall and spring terms. Join NFCC Tuesday, April 5 to celebrate and view the April exhibit, A Dialogue of Space Described. Regular hours for the NFCC Hardee Center for the Arts are Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. For more information, contact Lisa Barden, NFCC art instructor, at (850) 973-1642, email BardenL@nfcc.edu or visit www.nfcc.edu (search Visual Arts).

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March 30th Is National Doctors’ Appreciation Day

March 29, 2011 Health Comments Off

History Of National Doctors’ Day
George Bush
Proclamation 6253 – National Doctors Day, 1991
February 21, 1991

By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation

More than the application of science and technology, medicine is a special calling, and those who have chosen this vocation in order to serve their fellowman understand the tremendous responsibility it entails. Referring to the work of physicians, Dr. Elmer Hess, a former president of the American Medical Association, once wrote: “There is no greater reward in our profession than the knowledge that God has entrusted us with the physical care of His people. The Almighty has reserved for Himself the power to create life, but He has assigned to a few of us the responsibility of keeping in good repair the bodies in which this life is sustained.” Accordingly, reverence for human life and individual dignity is both the hallmark of a good physician and the key to truly beneficial advances in medicine.
The day-to-day work of healing conducted by physicians throughout the United States has been shaped, in large part, by great pioneers in medical research. Many of those pioneers have been Americans. Indeed, today we gratefully remember physicians such as Dr. Daniel Hale Williams and Dr. Charles Drew, who not only advanced their respective fields but also brought great honor and pride to their fellow Black Americans. We pay tribute to doctors such as Albert Sabin and Jonas Salk, whose vaccines for poliomyelitis helped to overcome one of the world’s most dread childhood diseases. We also recall the far-reaching humanitarian efforts of Americans such as Dr. Thomas Dooley, as well as the forward-looking labors of pioneers such as members of the National Institutes of Health, who are helping to lead the Nation’s fight against AIDS, cancer, and other life-threatening diseases. These and other celebrated American physicians have enabled mankind to make significant strides in the ongoing struggle against disease.
However, in addition to the doctors whose name we easily recognize, there are countless others who carry on the quiet work of healing each day in communities throughout the United States — indeed, throughout the world. Common to the experience of each of them, from the specialist in research to the general practitioner, are hard work, stress, and sacrifice. All those Americans who serve as licensed physicians have engaged in years of study and training, often at great financial cost. Most endure long and unpredictable hours, and many must cope with the conflicting demands of work and family life.
As we recognize our Nation’s physicians for their leadership in the prevention and treatment of illness and injury, it is fitting that we pay special tribute to those who serve as members of the Armed Forces and Reserves and are now deployed in support of Operation Desert Storm. Whether they carry the tools of healing into the heat of battle or stand duty at medical facilities in the Persian Gulf and elsewhere, these dedicated physicians — along with thousands of nurses and other medical personnel — are vital to the success of our mission. We salute them for their courage and sacrifice, and we pray for their safety. We also pray for all those who come in need of their care.
In honor of America’s physicians, the Congress, by Senate Joint Resolution 366 (Public Law 101-473), has designated March 30, 1991, as “National Doctors Day” and has authorized and requested the President to issue a proclamation in observance of this day.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim March 30, 1991, as National Doctors Day. I encourage all Americans to observe this day with appropriate programs and activities.

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How To Apply Sunscreen, The Right Way

March 29, 2011 Health Comments Off

By Kristin Finney
Greene Publishing, Inc.
As temperatures rise and the days grow longer, being outdoors is a larger part of most people’s days. However, with this increased amount of sun exposure there are many risks that a person should be aware of. Being sunburned is an easy way to ruin being outdoors for a while. But being sunburned is easily preventable if you know how to apply the right protection.
When tanning, going for a walk or simply getting ready for your workday, it is important to apply sunscreen. When tanning, it is important to get to know your skin type. If you have fair skin, then you will need to apply a stronger sunscreen, and also apply it more often. It is best to put your sunscreen on about 15 minutes before going outside. If you have tanner skin naturally, or more of an olive complexion, then you may not need as high a level of protection. Usually a 10-15 SPF is good to start.
It is also important to remember to reapply your sunscreen every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating. You should make sure than your face, ears, neck and feet are always covered with sunscreen. Those areas are more sensitive and likely to burn.
If you have prolonged exposure to the sun, such as spending a day at the beach, then it is best to bring other forms of protection from the sun as well. A large umbrella is a great way to take a break from the intensity of the sun after being exposed for a while. Also, a hat or long-sleeved cover-up will help prevent overexposure.
Another thing to remember, when spending time outside, is to stay hydrated. So make sure to drink plenty of water. Drinking water will not only prevent dehydration, it will also keep your skin hydrated and prevent your skin from drying out.

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Burn Authorizations

March 28, 2011 Outdoors Comments Off

OPEN ACREAGE BURN AUTHORIZATIONS/PERMITS FOR
MARCH 28, 2011
District 5 (Taylor, Dixie, Madison, Lafayette)

- RESTRICTIONS: Routine. Non-certified burners must have heavy equipment on-site.

DIXIE COUNTY OPEN ACREAGE BURN AUTHORIZATIONS/PERMITS

- none

LAFAYETTE COUNTY OPEN ACREAGE BURN AUTHORIZATIONS/PERMITS

- none

MADISON COUNTY OPEN ACREAGE BURN AUTHORIZATIONS/PERMITS

- 35 acres near Hopewell Farm Rd/SW Glen Ridge Trail (Near I-10), Private Landowner

TAYLOR COUNTY OPEN ACREAGE BURN AUTHORIZATIONS/PERMITS

- none

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Florida Gas Prices Rise 2.4 Cents Per Gallon

March 28, 2011 Editorials, Front Page Comments Off

Average retail gasoline prices in Florida have risen 2.4 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $3.57/g yesterday. This compares with the national average that has increased 3.4 cents per gallon in the last week to $3.56/g, according to gasoline price website FloridaStateGasPrices.com.

Including the change in gas prices in Florida during the past week, prices yesterday were 76.3 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 16.9 cents per gallon higher than a month ago. The national average has increased 21.5 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 76.5 cents per gallon higher than this day one year ago.

About FloridaStateGasPrices.com

GasBuddy operates GasBuddy.com, FloridaStateGasPrices.com, and over 225 other local gasoline price-tracking websites that follow prices at over 125,000 gasoline stations in the United States and Canada. GasBuddy also uses Facebook (facebook.com/gasbuddy) Twitter (twitter.com/gasbuddy), and phone apps to keep motorists ahead of changing gasoline prices. GasBuddy.com was named one of Time magazine’s 50 best websites and to PC World’s 100 most useful websites of 2008.

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Madison Senior Citizens Need A Lift

March 28, 2011 Around Madison, Front Page Comments Off

The Senior Citizens Council of Madison County is asking the community to donate items to an elderly female who needs a lift chair or recliner due to problems with swollen ankles, according to lead case manager, Elaine Hartley.
Another senior citizen needs a donated vacuum cleaner. This lady has breathing problems and she needs her house vacuumed regularly.
Finally, an elderly female whose food must be pureed is in need of a donated blender or food processor.
The Madison Senior Center is located just off State Road 14 at 1161 SW Harvey Greene Drive.
Their phone number is (850) 973-4241.

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PDF: Unemployment Drops Slightly In County And Region

March 25, 2011 Front Page Comments Off

WR6NFLWkfce – 0211data

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Road and Lane Closures for March 26 – April 1, 2011

March 25, 2011 Around Madison Comments Off

LAKE CITY: The following is a list of roadwork underway by the FDOT that may impact traffic.

ALACHUA COUNTY:

Archer Road (State Road 24) Nighttime lane closures Sunday through Thursday from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. between Interstate 75 and Southwest 34th Street (State Road 121) for work on the medians. Also, daytime lane closures from the Levy County line to Southwest 13th Street (US 441) to repaint the roadway markings (except between I-75 and Southwest 34th Street).

Hawthorne Road (State Road 20) Brief lane closures to clean dirt and debris near the railroad tracks in Hawthorne.

Northwest 39th Avenue (State Road 222) Daytime lane closures from Northwest 13th Street to North Main Street for utility work by the City of Gainesville.

South Main Street (State Road 329) Traffic is detoured from University Avenue to South First Avenue for reconstruction of the roadway. Southbound through traffic is detoured to University Avenue, Southwest Sixth Street and Southwest Fourth Avenue. Northbound through traffic is detoured to Southeast Fourth Avenue, Southeast Third Street and University Avenue. Local traffic has access and all businesses in the area are open and accessible. The on-street parking along Southeast and Southwest First Avenue is open, but traffic may only enter from those streets and a turn-around area is provided. Traffic traveling on University Avenue will not be allowed to turn south onto Main Street due to the construction.

Southwest 13th Street (US 441) Daytime lane closures at the intersection with Southwest 16th Avenue to modify a driveway for a new CVS Pharmacy being built in the southeastern corner.

Southwest 16th Avenue (State Road 226) Daytime lane closures at the intersection with Southwest 13th Street (US 441) to modify a driveway for a new CVS Pharmacy being built in the southeastern corner.

State Road 26 Traffic is scheduled to be shifted onto new pavement west of US 301 on Saturday, March 26. Daytime lane closures east and west of US 301 for paving and shoulder work. Traffic is now using the new overpass over US 301 and the CSX Railroad.

US 301 Daytime lane closures from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. between Orange Heights and Waldo for paving.

US 441 Daytime lane closures south of Hague at the northern entrance to the power plant to modify the driveway and turn lanes.

BAKER COUNTY:

State Road 121 Crews will be repainting the roadway lines from the Union County line to Macclenny Avenue (US 90) in downtown Macclenny.

US 90 Possible daytime lane closures to pour concrete at the State Road 121 sidewalk. Also, placing roadway markings and working on punch list items throughout the project from Sanderson to the Nassau County line.

BRADFORD COUNTY:

State Road 100 Daytime lane closures from the Clay County to the Union County line to repaint the roadway markings.

State Road 100 Brief daytime lane closures to clear dirt and debris near the railroad tracks east of US 301.

US 301 Brief daytime lane closures to clear dirt and debris near the railroad tracks south of State Road 100.

CLAY COUNTY:

State Road 100 Daytime lane closures from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. from east of Keystone Heights to the Putnam County line to work on side streets and shoulders.

COLUMBIA COUNTY:

Baya Drive (State Road 10A) Daytime lane closures while inmate crews repaint the roadway markings between US 90 East and US 90 West.

County Road 245 (Price Creek Road) The road is closed at the Olustee Creek Bridge about a mile north of State Road 238 through June. Northbound traffic is detoured to State Road 238 to US 441 to CR 349 and back to CR 245. Southbound traffic is detoured to CR 349 to US 441 to SR 238 and back to CR 245.

Interstate 75 Resurfacing from the Santa Fe River Bridge (Alachua County line) to three miles north of US 441 is expected to begin April 4 with daytime lane closures beginning in the southbound lanes.

US 441 Daytime lane closures from US 41 to the Georgia line while inmate crews repaint the roadway markings.

US 90 Daytime lane closures between State Road 100/County Road 100A and just east of Florida Gateway College for work on sidewalks and drainage in preparation for resurfacing.

DIXIE COUNTY:

State Road 349 Daytime lane closures after 8 a.m. between US 19 at Old Town and the Lafayette County line to place the final layer of asphalt.

HAMILTON COUNTY:

Interstate 75 Daytime and nighttime lane closures for northbound traffic with two lanes closed between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. nightly Sunday night through Thursday night near State Road 6 (Exit 460) for placing additional pavement at the curves. Southbound traffic is shifted onto the shoulder and adjacent lanes 24 hours a day at the CSX railroad overpass to protect workers who are performing major repairs on the pavement approaches to the overpass. No lane closures allowed Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

US 41 Crews will be repainting the roadway lines from State Road 6 in Jasper to the Suwannee River/Columbia County line.

US 129 Crews will be repainting the roadway lines from US 41 to the Georgia line.

LEVY COUNTY:

Alternate 27 (US 27A) Possible daytime lane closures from Southeast 10th Street in Williston to the Marion County line for sidewalk repairs and to work on drainage pipes in preparation for resurfacing.

MADISON COUNTY:

State Road 145 No lane closures expected between US 90 in Madison and Hanson. Crews will be installing fence alongside the new bike trail.

US 19 Possible daytime lane closures from the Jefferson to Taylor County lines to place guardrail, build turn lanes and work on drainage pipes.

US 90 (Base Street) Daytime lane closures at the intersection with Range Street for cleaning of the storm sewer drains.

US 221 Daytime lane closures from the Taylor County line to Greenville for ditch cleaning.

SUWANNEE COUNTY:

US 90 Crews will be repainting the roadway lines from the Suwannee River to the Columbia County line.

TAYLOR COUNTY:

State Road 51 Daytime lane closures at the Jena overpass in Steinhatchee for cleaning of the storm sewer drains.

US 19 Crews will be repainting the roadway lines from County Road 30 to US 221.

US 98 Crews will be repainting the roadway lines from the Jefferson County line to US 19 in Perry.

UNION COUNTY:

State Road 121 Daytime lane closures in Worthington Springs for driveway work to a new Dollar General Store.

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Madison County Memorial Hospital Board Discusses Finances And New Facility

March 24, 2011 Front Page One comment

By Lynette Norris
Greene Publishing, Inc.
Three major themes of the March 22 Madison County Memorial Hospital board meeting were the financial struggles of small hospitals in poor rural areas, how to create more public awareness of the hospital’s work and get that information in to the hands of Madison County citizens, and of course, the new hospital.
Warren Irwin, a member of the public, addressed the board and asked about the hospital’s bad debt problem and what was being done to mitigate it.
Despite the bad debt problem, the hospital is current on its payroll and taxes, if not on general accounts, said Patrick Halfhill.  When it comes to bad debt, the hospital tries for six months to collect before turning the account over to a collection agency.
However, in the second poorest county in the state with high unemployment, “it’s a constant struggle,” he said.  “We try to get (patients) to go to the health department and sign up for Medicaid, but we can’t do it for them.”
Bad debt is not unique to MCMH, added Hospital CEO David Abercrombie.  The entire state of Florida ranks 47th in poor financial performance of small rural hospitals, and Madison County is one of four counties with a “persistent poverty” designation.  Small hospitals also have no bargaining power with insurers and other payment providers.
When it comes to indigent care, Board Chairman Ben Harris said, “Our hands are tied.  By law, when someone walks into that emergency room, we have to do an evaluation.”
In addition to poverty and high unemployment, the county population also ranks number one in diabetes, stroke, hypertension, and several types of cancers, including colorectal cancer.  When discussing whether or not to continue the endoscopy program (providing the vital service of diagnosing colorectal cancer) despite losing money on it, Harris spoke of a decision that was “very easy business-wise, but morally it’s very difficult…we’re caught between the extreme medical and the extreme financial.”   Also, Medicaid now flags 100 percent of endoscopy procedures for review, stretching a two-week pay cycle into three months.
Tommy Hardee from the Hospital Foundation spoke about the need for getting information in front of the public.  The Foundation has planned a series of three dinners for three separate groups of up to 100 people in order to get the information out to as many as possible.  The youth group of the First United Methodist Church would serve the dinner in the fellowship hall where the Hospital Board would do a PowerPoint presentation of the audited financials and explain the purpose and progress of the new hospital.  There was also a suggestion of holding at least some of the monthly board meetings, perhaps one per quarter, in other areas of the county such as Greenville or Lee, giving more citizens a chance to attend.
When it came to the new hospital, Abercrombie presented floor plan drawings and reported that the Agency for Health Care Administration had completed the stage one review and approved the plan.  The next stage is working in the engineering components (IT system, nurse call system, HVAC system, etc.), a process expected to be completed in June.
The new facility would focus on family care and treating the whole patient.  It will have a physical therapy department that could in the future expand to other types of therapy such a respiratory therapy.
Abercrombie then said that one thing that might help with the immediate cash flow problem was the new electronic record system; it would mean fewer dropped or lost charges for services, as well as getting invoices out to patients in a timely manner.  The hospital will switch to the new system over a period of five days beginning April 1, and the board expects the new system to pay for itself in the first three months.  Further into the future, the new facility would be reimbursed for 100 percent depreciation for every square foot devoted to patient care, bringing in more money once the new facility is up and running.
Also in the works is a joint luncheon meeting between the MCMH board and the County Commission, where the board will present the PowerPoint presentation and fill the commissioners in on what the hospital is presently doing.  The meeting is planned for April 6 at noon, but the location has yet to be determined.

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Jail  Report March 16-22

March 24, 2011 Crime Comments Off

3/16
Robert Nick Adam – Possession of marijuana less than 20 grams
John Anthony Martin II – DUI, refusal to take a blood test, possession of marijuana under 20 grams, possession of drug equipment and paraphernalia
Matthew Mark Miller – Possession of marijuana less than 20 grams, possession of drug equipment and paraphernalia
Keith Antonio Bellamy – Criminal registration
3/17
Leon Leonard McQuay – Criminal registration
Brian Antonio Hallman – VOP (county)
Vidura Agarwal – Possession of marijuana less than 20 grams, possession of drug paraphernalia
James Earl Hampton — Trespassing
3/18
Joshua Wayne Odom – Animal cruelty (livestock), possession of a weapon in the commission of a felony, theft of livestock, trespassing while armed, VOP (county)
Darius Lashard Livingston – Battery (domestic violence)
Alfonso Bonilla Aguilera – No valid drivers license
3/19
Kimbrail Lakeith Spearman – Driving while license suspended
Wayne Charles Cantrell – Driving while license suspended, tag alteration
Zebulin Richardson – VOP (circuit)
Melvin James Mathis, Jr. – Reckless driving, fleeing and attempting to elude police
Chad Baron Mitchell – Battery (domestic)
3/20
Robert Dale Shaffer – No motor vehicle registration, driving while license suspended (with knowledge)
Brian Keith McDuffie – DUI
Nikki Arlene Schatzberg – DUI, introduction of contraband into a detention facility, possession of drugs with intent to sell
Gregory Leon Fiffia, Sr. – Violation of injunction
3/21
Terrance Lorenzo Martin – Sex offender registration
Kenneth Roshoud Jones – Burglary of an occupied dwelling, theft
Myron Maurice Howard – Criminal registration
3/22
Ali Vega Lopez – Failure to appear for operation of a commercial motor vehicle with a suspended operators license

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Tax Rule Changes

March 24, 2011 Editorials Comments Off

Business & Tax Insights

By Mark Buescher, C.P.A.
Guest Columnist

 

As Madison and the North Florida region continues to slowly emerge from a slumping economy, it’s time to assess the business impact of various tax legislation packages passed by Congress last year.
Most of the tax law changes, particularly the 2010 Tax Relief Act passed on December 17, 2010, have provisions that became effective on January 1 of this year.  As with any new legislation, tax planning becomes both more critical and potentially more rewarding.
The tax rule changes actually make 2011 a prime year to consider making key business decisions, namely investing in two important assets: your equipment and your employees.
Relative to investments in equipment, businesses can now write off as much as $500,000 of qualified equipment purchased and placed in service this year.  Furthermore, the equipment purchased can be either new or used.  This special one year write-off, as opposed to lengthy depreciation write-offs, is definitely one of the most aggressive business provisions Congress has enacted in many years.
Next year, however, the cap drops to $125,000, making 2011 more significant for most businesses, particularly larger ones.  The deduction is phased out for  businesses with equipment purchases exceeding $2 million.
In addition, brand new equipment can qualify for 100% first-year bonus depreciation if placed in service before the end of this year (or before the end of 2012 for certain types of property).  In 2012 the bonus first-year depreciation rate declines to 50%.  And don’t forget, energy-saving purchases made this year might also score one of the extended energy tax breaks.
If you happen to be in a retail or restaurant business, another tremendous benefit is an accelerated depreciation write-off  not only for equipment, but also for buildings and improvements.  The 15-year depreciation write-off for certain leasehold and retail improvements and restaurant buildings and improvements offers a significant benefit as opposed to normal 39-year write-off provisions.  These assets will no longer qualify for 15-year depreciation write-offs after 2011.  Therefore, the timing of capital improvements is essential.
On the personnel side, some companies with fewer than 25 full-time employees can receive a tax credit of up to 35% of the cost to provide group health insurance.  Additionally, employers of all sizes may deduct up to $5,250 of tax-free assistance per worker for qualified higher education expenses.  And up to $230 per month of tax-free qualified highway vehicle transportation and transit pass reimbursements can be provided to each eligible employee.
If you are like many businesses, quality child care is usually on the mind of your workforce.  If so, consider getting a 25% tax credit by providing child care facilities for your employees.  Another 10% credit is allowed for eligible child care resource and referral services.  The maximum credit is limited to $150,000, significantly large enough for most employers in our area.
If you are looking to expand your employee roster, a credit is available for hiring workers from approved target groups.  Since this tax break is scheduled to end after this year, you may want to consider advancing hiring decisions into 2011.
Whether it is equipment or employees, 2011 may be the year to make significant upgrades to your business.  After all, as your business benefits from new tax law changes, investments you make will have a ripple effect on other areas of our economy.
Mark Buescher, CPA is owner and principal of Buescher and Ruff, LLC, a local full service accounting firm in Madison, specializing in tax preparation, business consulting and tax planning.  Tax laws contain varying effective dates and numerous limitations and exemptions that cannot be summarized easily.  For details and guidance for your specific situation, contact your tax advisor.

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The Grand Opening Of Gigi’s All And Everything Takes Place On Dade Street

March 24, 2011 Around Madison Comments Off

By Lynette Norris
Greene Publishing, Inc.
GiGi Auston’s “All & Everything” is up and running.
Actually, it has been in business for about five months, but the Open House with its Grand Opening Ceremony Friday, March 11, made it “officially” official.  GiGi, who moved here from Key Largo with her husband back in October, had been up since 7 a.m. that morning, baking goodies and preparing refreshments for those who stopped by to see her charming second-hand shop at 319 NW Dade Street with the huge, moss-draped oak tree in front.  The two-story wood frame house, with the covered front porch curving around to the left, is painted in soft shades of butter yellow, honey gold and peach.  Inside, it holds an eclectic mix of items – truly a little bit of “All & Everything,” as the name says.  One can browse through everything from vintage Christmas decorations, to clothing and handbags, to videotapes of TV shows and movies, to various decorative, unique, and useful household items.
The temperature had dropped from quite balmy earlier in the week, to a bit chilly Friday morning, as people gathered for the ribbon cutting, but coffee, hot pizza and a few space heaters took some of the nip out of the air.  GiGi, full of energy and enthusiasm, was hard to miss in her stylish black fur hat and sequined top, warmly welcoming everyone into the shop, serving coffee and making sure the refreshment table was always filled with snacks.  A little later, in spite of the chill, the sun was shining brightly as Cindy Vees from the Madison County Chamber of Commerce lined everyone up outside for the ribbon-cutting.
Currently, GiGi’s shop is open by appointment, but soon, she hopes to be open full-time, doing brisk business in a town she says she fell in love with the first time she saw it 12 years ago.  If you would like to drop by her shop, call her at (850) 464-7031.  Bring friends and have a great time browsing through all the wonderful stuff.

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Babe Ruth League Set To Play Ball!

March 24, 2011 Front Page, Sports Comments Off

By Jacob Bembry
Greene Publishing, Inc.
The smell of hotdogs cooking and popcorn popping will be in the air as Babe Ruth League Opening Day is set for this Saturday, March 26, at the Madison County Recreation Park. The park is located west of Madison, off US Highway 90.
The fun begins at 9 a.m. with opening ceremonies and a cake auction.
Games will begin at 10 a.m. and run throughout the day.
Play ball!

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Madison Board Names Catron As New Mayor

March 24, 2011 Front Page Comments Off

By Ginger Jarvis
Greene Publishing, Inc.
As one of his first acts as the new mayor of Madison, Jim Catron presented out-going mayor Judy Townsend with a plaque of appreciation for her past year in that position. He told her, “Your service has been exemplary.”
Catron took the mayor’s seat after being selected by the city commissioners t their regular meeting on March 15. The board named Commissioner Myra Valentine as mayor Pro-Tem. They unanimously agreed that Townsend should travel to Tallahassee to present Lt. Governor Jennifer Carroll with a key to the city as a token of appreciation for Carroll’s participation in the city’s recent Military Covenant Signing Ceremony. Townsend was a part of that ceremony.
In other business, the board approved a resolution recognizing the 100th anniversary of the Woman’s Club of Madison. Jackie Johnson invited the commissioners to attend a celebration event on May 12.
The board also approved a payment plan for Monica West to purchase a house and lot previously owned by the city. West will pay $2,000 down, $300 a month for one year, and a balloon payment after that year.
The commissioners approved a quit-claim deed for a narrow strip of property on Alligator Trail so that owner Sarah Copeland may sell the house and land. City Attorney Clay Schnitker stated that he had found no evidence that the city owned the strip, so the deed was just a formality.
The board gave approval for the Chamber of Commerce permit to use Lanier Field for a rodeo to be held during Down Home Days in April with the stipulation that the Chamber should sign an agreement.

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Jacob’s Ladder

March 24, 2011 Church, Editorials Comments Off
Jacob Bembry, Editor

Have You Prayed For Madison County?

Jacob Bembry, Editor

Have you been praying for Madison County during this Lenten season?
The Madison County Ministerial Association is encouraging the churches in Madison County to pray for 40 days in an effort to help Madison County. Families are being prayed for, schools are being prayed for and the economy is being prayed for.
Have you been praying for Madison County?
The church I attend – Midway Church of God – is in the midst of a revival. On Monday and Tuesday night, Mike Carson, who is conducting the revival, has led those attending in prayer for Madison County.
Mike lives in Lafayette, Tenn., where he says church attendance is sparse. His church runs approximately 200 people in attendance each week, down from 300 a week. Of the 20,000 people in the county there, only 3,000 attend church.
I wonder if there are even 3,000 people in Madison County (which has roughly the same population as Lafayette) attend church here?
Have you been to church lately?
Have you taken your children to church?
Have your children been to church, but not you?
Maybe it’s time some children take their parents to church.
Look around and see all the problems in Madison County today. A look at this week’s Jail Report in this newspaper shows people arrested for drugs, for DUI, for domestic violence, for burglary and even shows one person registering as a sexual offender. Look at the businesses in town that are drowning in the sea of desperation as the economy grabs them by the ankles, holding them under water. Look at the schools and the poor grades the children have. Most of all — look at the families. There are children who go hungry because their parents are willing to pay more for crack or alcohol or gambling than they are for food. Look at all the unwed mothers.
Madison County needs to pray. Madison County needs to be churched and they don’t need just every once-in-a-while, go and smile, church attendance. We need regular attendance in Bible-believing and Bible-practicing churches.
May God bless you!
Hope to see you in church on Sunday.
Visit Jacob Bembry’s blog at www.jacobbembry.us

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Madison Church Of God To Host Church Leadership Conference

March 24, 2011 Church Comments Off

Madison Church of God is hosting a Church Leadership Conference.
Johnny Moore and the Leadership staff of Family Worship Center in Cairo, Ga. are presenting it.
The Conference is called “Restoring Hope to a Hurting Community.”
The conference is part of the “Big Dreams in a Small Town” Conference from South Georgia.
The event will begin on Friday, March 25, with a Restoration session at 6 p.m., followed by the conference kickoff at 7 p.m.
The meeting on Saturday, March 26, will begin with coffee and donuts at 8 a.m., followed by break-out sessions beginning at 9 a.m. A noon meal will be served before everyone goes back into the sanctuary for a message. The conference will dismiss at 2:30 p.m.
The cost for the conference is $10 per person.
The church will provide breakfast and lunch on Saturday.
For more information or to register, they can go on the church website at www.madis onchurchofgod.us.

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