Archive for August 2011

Dilan Lawson Wins Dizzy Dean World Series

August 4, 2011 Front Page, Sports 3 comments
Dilan-Lawson
By Jacob Bembry
Greene Publishing, Inc.

Dilan Lawson has put a smile on the faces of his parents, grandparents and members of the Madison County community. The 10-year-old superstar has returned from South Haven, Miss., with a Dizzy Dean World Series championship under his belt.

Dilan began his baseball career six years ago in Madison County, playing tee-ball in the Babe Ruth League. He has been playing travel ball for the last two years, currently playing for Parks and Recreation in Valdosta, Ga.

Dilan is the number one pitcher for Parks and Recreation.

Coached by Carl Rose, who is assisted by Dilan’s dad, Mike Lawson, Parks and Recreation was the only team in the 10 and under World Series who went through undefeated. They played a team from Louisville, Ala., in a two out of three series for the title and won the first two games, 14-3 and 16-9. They did not have to play a third game.

Dilan is the son of Mike and Lindsey Lawson of Madison. He has a younger brother, Thad, who wants to follow in his brother’s footsteps and became a ball player. His grandparents are Bobby and Phyllis Lawson and Jim and Cindy Hunter and Rosa and Bill Crowder.

Dilan attends Madison Academy.

 

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Area Youth Land Summer Jobs Through Workforce’s iWork3

August 4, 2011 Front Page Comments Off
Enjoying the iWork3 program at Lake Park of Madison were Youth Shanika Arnold, Supervisors Deena Hames, and Connie Walker, Youth Tyresha Hill and Supervisor Kim King.

Enjoying the iWork3 program at Lake Park of Madison were Youth Shanika Arnold, Supervisors Deena Hames, and Connie Walker, Youth Tyresha Hill and Supervisor Kim King.

Supported by North Florida Workforce Program staff, over 100 youth (ages 16–21) from Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Madison, Suwannee, and Taylor Counties are busy at work this summer, earning above minimum wage for jobs to which they applied and interviewed. “Our program’s name, iWork3, indicates the third year that area youth have been engaged in life and work skills training,” said iWork3 Coordinator, Breanda Taylor.  “This temporary work will improve their lives and increase their opportunities for securing self-sustaining employment, including networking with local employers who will be valuable employment references in years to come.”

According to iWork3 Assistant, Allesandra Camejo, “Prior to starting their jobs, youth participants completed Work Readiness Week, and continue their employability training through bi-weekly Life Skills Workshops where they learn skills that may be applied at their worksites. Also, youth were taught how to use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and completed training activities to earn their CPR (Infant, Child and Adult) and OSHA/MSHA credentials – common requirements for many local employers in our region.”

Besides having the opportunity to acquire nationally-recognized work credentials, these young workers were also introduced to Florida Ready to Work credentialing program.  Florida Ready to Work is part of a nationwide Career Readiness Credentialing network.   Through this program, jobseekers review and increase their basic skills and are then assessed to determine their skill level, earning a bronze, silver, or gold credential.  The credential will be signed by Governor Rick Scott.   Youth who diligently access this Internet-based program for at least one hour each week during the summer are given the opportunity to test for their Ready to Work credential and earn a $100 incentive when they pass.

Some of the many participating worksites for iWork3 from throughout the six-county region include: Doctors Memorial Hospital, City of Perry, Madison Clerk of Court, Madison Recreation Association, Jefferson County Property Appraiser, Jefferson County Parks and Recreation, Three Rivers Regional Library, Comprehensive Community Services, Suwannee Co. Sheriff’s Department, North Florida Printing, Hamilton County Economic Development Authority and Suwannee Valley Nursing Center.

Other worksites specifically from Madison County that participated in iWORK3 as a mentor are Madison Chamber of Commerce, Madison County Central School, Madison Youth Initiative, Madison Public Library, Lake Park of Madison, NFCC and Tri-County Electric.

“Workforce:  Solutions for North Florida’s Economy,” says the sign above the main Career Center located at 705 East Base Street in Madison.  By the program’s end in mid-August, it is hoped that the young people served this summer through iWork3 will have discovered more about themselves and overcome the barriers facing them since enrolling in this innovative work readiness program. Another goal of the program is to put more young people in the talent pipeline from which area employers choose their future workforce.

iWork3 and other career and employment focused activities are made available to area youth and adults through national legislation the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) which replaced the Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA) in 1998.  In such legislation, a year-round youth program was established to assist youth with facing barriers to employment and assisting them with opportunities to move towards self-sufficient (high skill/high wage) occupations available in our region.  The year-round Youth Career Consultant is Sara Shepherd. More information can be found at www.NFWorkforce.org.

For next summer, any youth or prospective worksites may contact Breanda Taylor, Summer Youth Employment Program Coordinator (iWork4) at 850/973-WORK or 866/367-4758.

Services are also available for adult jobseekers and include but are not limited to job search, resume, and cover letter assistance and referrals to intensive and training services as needed to secure gainful employment. For more information on the Workforce Investment Act program, visit www.NFWorkforce.org or call the numbers listed above and ask to speak to a WIA Career Consultant.

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One Tough And Strong Little Sister

August 4, 2011 Editorials Comments Off
Jacob’sLadder
Jacob BembryColumnist

It’s Wednesday afternoon, a little after 2 p.m. It has been a long time since I remember being this exhausted.

The reason for my exhaustion is that I took my sister, Abbie, to the dentist Tuesday night in Gainesville. I thought that it would be a routine examination and then decide where to go from there. I knew that Abbie needed her teeth extracted and I thought that she would be put under anesthesia when they did it. She would be in dreamland and wouldn’t know what had happened until it was over.

Instead, the dentist decided to start extracting her teeth. Abbie was placed in feet straps and hand straps and a number of dental assistants also had to hold her head and her shoulders down. At one point, she flexed the muscle in her arm and broke one of the straps. I had told them how strong she is. I don’t know if they believed it until they saw that.

A local anesthetic was used (I believe Novocain) and the dentist began pulling her teeth. Abbie struggled against the pressure. The dentist said that he had given her plenty of anesthetic so she wasn’t feeling pain, but she was feeling pressure.

As I watched, my heart was breaking because I didn’t like to see Abbie struggle the way she was doing or be subjected to any pain or pressure. At the same time, I was relieved because I knew that she would not have to worry about any toothaches again and she has suffered with them for years.

My family and I were down there with her for hours Tuesday evening and when we all went home, it was one long trip back.

I believe that Abbie will get over any anger that she may feel towards me at this time when she realizes that what was done was in her best interest. For years, we had been trying to find someone who could help. Thanks to Zane Gaston, a dental assistant at the health department, we found out about the after hours clinic at Tachachale in Gainesville.

God has given me a tough and strong little sister, who will celebrate her 42nd birthday this Tuesday, Aug. 9. If you see Abbie, make sure you tell her “Happy birthday.” I am sure that it will make her happy.

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Georgina Simpson

August 4, 2011 Obituaries Comments Off

Georgina Simpson, 75, of Madison, passed away Tuesday, August 2, 2011, in Smith Northview Hospital. She was born in Havana, Cuba. She was a member of Mt. Olive Baptist Church in Madison.   She was a loving mother, grandmother and friend.  She will be greatly missed.

She is survived by her two sons and daughter-in-law, Tony Simpson of Madison, and Stan and Debbie Simpson of California; a grandson, Sean Simpson; two brothers, Humberto Herrera and Jorge Herrera, both of Orlando; and a number of nieces, nephews and friends.

The family will hold services at a later date.

Sympathy can be expressed online at www.musicfuneralservices.com

Music Funeral Services/Azalea Crematory of Valdosta is serving the Simpson family

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Nicholas Heinrich

August 4, 2011 Obituaries Comments Off

Nicholas Heinrich, age 93, died Wednesday, July 27, 2011, at Lake Park Nursing Home in Madison.

He moved to Madison 40 years ago, coming from Seaford, N.Y.

He was a mechanical engineer and worked at Fairbanks-Morse in New York.

He was predeceased by his wife, Elaine Heinrich, of Madison. He had two sons, Nicholas Heinrich III, and Bruce Heinrich; one daughter, Cheryl Nelson of N.Y.; seven grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

There will be no funeral services.

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NFCC Chillin’ And Grillin’ Is A Success

August 4, 2011 Education Comments Off
Some of the college’s employees are seen during the NFCC Chillin’ and Grillin’ event. Seen from left to right are Saint Leo’s Lisa Burnham and Christy Roebuck, and NFCC’s Kim Scarboro, Desiree James, John Grosskopf, Gail Hackle, Wesley Thompson and Lynn Wyche.

Some of the college’s employees are seen during the NFCC Chillin’ and Grillin’ event. Seen from left to right are Saint Leo’s Lisa Burnham and Christy Roebuck, and NFCC’s Kim Scarboro, Desiree James, John Grosskopf, Gail Hackle, Wesley Thompson and Lynn Wyche.

By Kristin Finney
Greene Publishing, Inc.

North Florida Community College took their community outreach into the community on Thursday, July 29. NFCC staff hosted a Chillin’ and Grillin’ event that allowed community members and prospective students to see what is happening on campus.

During the event, hotdogs, chips and sodas were given out to those who wanted them.

There were also booths set up for NFCC, St. Leo and some of the activities that take place on campus. All of these booths were designed to give information to the public about the programs at NFCC.

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Nestle In The August Spotlight

August 4, 2011 Around Madison Comments Off
Michael Hyman accepts the Member Spotlight of the Month Award on behalf of Nestle Waters from Chamber of Commerce Director Cindy Vees.

Michael Hyman accepts the Member Spotlight of the Month Award on behalf of Nestle Waters from Chamber of Commerce Director Cindy Vees.

By Lynette Norris
Greene Publishing, Inc.

For the Chamber’s August Spotlight selection, Micki Salter pulled number 135 out of the bowl at the Madison County Chamber of Commerce, the number that corresponded to Chamber Member Nestle Waters.  So, Tuesday afternoon, August 2, Chamber Director Cindy Vees was on her way to the Nestle Waters bottling plant to present the August Member Spotlight of the Month.

Michael Hyman was on hand to receive the award, a congratulatory green plant in a wicker basket from Madison Florist, an official certificate to mark the occasion, and two free passes to the RATT Pact’s next production, “Rapunzel.”

Additionally, Hyman received two large signs stating that Nestle is the Spotlight Award winner, to display outside the business for the entire month of August.  He placed one just outside the facility’s front door, and the other near the plant’s turnoff from SR 6 on her way back to town.

In explaining the selection process, Vees said that she wanted it to be completely random, rather than based on any specific criteria, so that any member, whether a large company or a small business owned by a single individual could be featured in the spotlight each month.

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August 14 Declared Charles W. Evans Day

August 4, 2011 Church 4 comments
Charles Evans pauses for a moment at the Winn-Dixie Pharmacy, where he also works, in addition to pastoring Mt. Zion A.M.E.

Charles Evans pauses for a moment at the Winn-Dixie Pharmacy, where he also works, in addition to pastoring Mt. Zion A.M.E.

By Lynette Norris
Greene Publishing, Inc.

At the request of Jerome Wyche, speaking as a private citizen, the County Commission unanimously approved and read a proclamation naming Saturday, Aug. 14, as Charles W. Evans Day.

Evans, 58, was born in Monticello, served in the military and then settled in Madison, where he has worked as a long-time pharmacist as well as pastor of several churches, including Mt. Zion A.M.E.  In fact, Evans, who was ordained in October of 1983 and began as pastor of Mt. Zion in 1999, has been the longest sitting pastor (11 years) in the church’s history.

In the pastor’s honor, the congregation has planned two special events at the church.  The first is Saturday evening, Aug. 13, at 6 p.m., and the second is Sunday afternoon, Aug. 14 at 2:30 p.m.

At Saturday even-ing’s service, the speaker will be Rev. Herbert Thomas from Mt. Nebo Missionary Baptist Church in Greenville.  Thomas also oversees Welaunee Missionary Baptist Church in Lamont, Florida.

Sunday’s service will be conducted by Rev. Alonzo Fudge.  County Commission Chair Renetta Parrish will also be on hand to read the proclamation approved by the County Commission naming August 14 as Charles W. Evans Day.

Members of the Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church would like to invite the public to come by and participate in the services congratulating Rev. Evans on his 11 years with Mt. Zion and his continued service to the congregation through his ministry, and his service to the community in his capacity as pharmacist.

After the Sunday service, dinner will be served in the attached dining hall.  Mt. Zion is located at 576 S.W. Dade Street.  For directions or more information, contact 850-464-0196.

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Jantz Jenkins Recognized As Winner Of Landscape Management Proficiency

August 4, 2011 Outdoors Comments Off
Elise Stoddard (left), Florida FFA Vice-President, presents Jantz Jenkins (center-left) with his awards; They are joined by Madison FFA Advisor, Ed Sapp (center-right) and Florida FFA President, Clay Sapp (right).

Elise Stoddard (left), Florida FFA Vice-President, presents Jantz Jenkins (center-left) with his awards; They are joined by Madison FFA Advisor, Ed Sapp (center-right) and Florida FFA President, Clay Sapp (right).

The winner of the State Landscape Management Proficiency is Jantz Jenkins of the Madison FFA Chapter. Jenkins was recognized at the 83rd annual State FFA Convention.

A member of the Madison FFA Chapter, Jantz Jenkins began working with his father in his lawn care business. So, it came naturally that his Supervised Agricultural Experience would be in the area of Landscape Management. Jenkins learned how to operate all kinds of lawn care equipment, including weed eaters, blowers, edgers, and mowers. As he grew, he began to be offered more responsibility. Jenkins is proud of the progress that he has made through his SAE project and the lessons that he has been able to learn along the way. He plans to one day take over the business for his father.

Other finalists in the Landscape Management Proficiency area were Frankie Hunsberger of the New Smyrna Beach FFA Chapter, Dillon Nix of the Kathleen FFA Chapter, and Austin Trinder of the South Lake FFA Chapter. The winner of the Landscape Management Proficiency area received a $200 check and a plaque; his agriculture teacher received a $100 check. The finalists were awarded with plaques. Florida Nursery Growers & Landscape Association generously sponsored this proficiency area.

Jenkins also received a $250 check from the national sponsor and will now go on to compete against other state winners. The national sponsors of this award are Tractor Supply Company and John Deere.

The National FFA Organization, formerly known as the Future Farmers of America, is a national youth organization of 523,309 student members, as part of 7,487 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. The National FFA Organization changed to its present name in 1988, in recognition of the growth and diversity of agriculture and agriculture education. The FFA mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education. For more information visit www.flaffa.org or contact:
Ronnie Simmons
Florida FFA Association
P.O. Box 141570Gainesville, Florida 32614
Ph: 325.378.0060
Email: Ronnie.Simmons@flaffa.org

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Remembrance Of Things Past: Margie Medley

August 4, 2011 History Comments Off
Margie Medley grew up in Madison. She has spent the entirety of her life here, learned about hard work and has raised a family here.

Margie Medley grew up in Madison. She has spent the entirety of her life here, learned about hard work and has raised a family here.

By Kristin Finney
Greene Publishing, Inc.

Margie Medley has spent her entire life in the little town of Madison. Though, when she was growing up, Madison was even smaller than it is today. While she loved being in Madison, her dreams fueled her desire to travel and see the rest of the state.

Medley spent her childhood working on Chase Tobacco farm, her first job. She worked in the fields and learned a lot about the meaning of a hard day’s work. She and her family also spent a lot of time together at their home. Whether it was she and her siblings cleaning up their house, or playing ball in the yard.

While most girls in that time would have preferred to be indoors, protected from the heat of the sun, Medley prided herself in being a “tomboy.” She preferred climbing trees, playing softball and playing football. “I didn’t do what most of the other girls did. I was a tomboy,” said Medley.

She attended school at Madison Training School. One of her favorite things to do at school was to play ball. “I liked softball a lot,” she explained.

When she wasn’t working outside or playing outside, she spent her time shopping at Kromers or Lucille’s. Kromers was a department store. Lucille’s was a dress shop. “There are a lot more stores here now than there was back then.”

Her dreams were simple. She didn’t wish to become famous or make millions of dollars, Medley simply wanted to travel. Her desire to travel didn’t lead her to China or California. She wanted simply to travel to places like Tallahassee, Miami and Fort Lauderdale. “Back then we couldn’t travel like I wanted to. Now there are a lot more ways to travel and it is easier to get to other places. That was the worst part about growing up here, not being able to go places.”

Medley is now married and has three grown children. Her husband is Ronald Medley.

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