We have photos and videos by Kristin Finney from the 2011 Homecoming Parade on our Facebook page. Go to Facebook and like Greene Publishing, Inc. While there, why not tag some of the photos of friends that you see? And, if you haven’t already, click to “like” us.
Miniscule Improvement Here, Jefferson
By Lazaro Aleman
Special from ECB Publishing, Inc.
For the third consecutive month, Florida’s jobless rate remained stuck at 10.7 percent in August, while it dropped a fraction of a percentage point in Madison and Jefferson counties.
So show the latest unemployment statistics released by the Florida Agency for Workforce Innovation (AWI) on Friday, Sept. 16. The state’s 10.7 percent unemployment rate translates into 987,000 jobless Floridians out of a workforce of 9,201,000. The U.S. unemployment rate, meanwhile, remained at 9.1 percent, the same as the previous month.
The statistics do not reflect those who have given up looking for work, for whatever reason, or those who are underemployed.
The figures show Florida’s seasonally adjusted total nonagricultural employment was 7,233,100 in August, “an increase of 9,900 jobs from July” and a gain of 71,600 jobs since January 2011, according to the AWI.
In Madison County, it was 12.3 percent, down from a revised 12.4 percent in July. In Jefferson County, the unemployment rate was 9.0 percent in August, down from a revised 9.1 percent in July.For Madison County, the 12.3 percent translates into 874 jobless persons out of a labor force of 7,125, compared with 889 jobless persons out of a labor force of 7,145 in July. In August 2010, the comparable figures were 860 jobless persons out of a labor force of 7,212, when the unemployment rate was 11.9 percent.
For Jefferson County, the 9.1 percent represents 593 jobless persons out of a labor force of 6,580, compared with 599 jobless persons out of a labor force of 6,593 in July. In August 2010, the comparable figures were 634 jobless persons out of a workforce of 6,626, when the unemployment rate was 9.6 percent.
Monroe County continued to have the state’s lowest unemployment rate at 6.7 percent, followed by Walton County at 7.0 percent; Liberty County at 7.1 percent; Okaloosa County at 7.4 percent; and Lafayette County at 7.7 percent.Hendry County continued to have the state’s highest unemployment rate at 17.9 percent, followed by Flagler County at 14.9 percent; Hernando and Indian River counties at 13.9 percent; and St. Lucie County at 13.7 percent.
The AWI reports that that 42 of Florida’s 67 counties experienced double digit unemployment in August, compared with 44 in July.
Each year, the annual bake sale at the Madison County Senior Center brings much-needed fundraising dollars to the Center, while providing delicious goodies for sampling and gift-giving.
The Senior Citizens’ Harvest Bake Sale takes place on Wednesday, Oct. 12, from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. on the Madison County Courthouse lawn.
This year the Senior Center has a Bake Sale Committee, which is inviting local cooks and groups to bake and donate items. Sweets to be sold will include a mix of cakes, pies, cookies, cupcakes and quick breads, as well as delicious preserves and jams.
Contributors of baked goods may call the Senior Center in advance. Baked goods should be delivered on Oct. 11 at the Senior Center. The phone number to sign up is (850) 973-4241. Financial donations will also accepted to help out with costs. With this year’s Harvest theme, treats for sale will be decorated in baskets with colorful cellophane and pretty ribbons. Sugar free items are also welcomed and will be labeled as sugar free.
By Jacob Bembry
Greene Publishing, Inc.
Jessica Clark-Solomon was chosen the 2011 Madison County High School
homecoming queen. She was crowned during coronation ceremonies held at the Van H. Priest Auditorium on Tuesday evening, Sept. 27.
Before the coronation began, Alana Ellison welcomed everyone to the festivities.
Bridgette Blanton led the Pledge of Allegiance to the American flag.
Casey Odom and Ryan Kornegay then sang the National Anthem. Kornegay, the student body president, also served as Master of Ceremonies. Abigail Blanton and
Coriana Peacock were named the homecoming princesses for this year’s homecoming game and parade.
Brianna Hodge and Tyaunie Richardson represented the freshman class.
Carissa Blanton and Taylor Smith represented the sophomore class.
Tiffany Alexander and Antonia Seabrooks were the junior class representatives. Jalisa Reddick was chosen the 2011 Miss Band.
Elainie Jarvis was recognized as Miss Varsity Cheerleader.
Serena Broomfield was Miss JV Cheerleader.
Kailee Morris was recognized as Miss FBLA.
Alaina Pickles was this year’s Miss FCCLA.
Terra Redditt was chosen Miss FFA for 2011.Kayla Knowles was chosen Miss MaCoHi.
By Jacob Bembry
Greene Publishing, Inc.
The Madison City Commission voted unanimously on Tuesday, Sept. 27, to accept the resignation of Harold Emrich.
Emrich presented the resignation/retirement letter to the board. On his own private stationery, Emrich wrote:
“Dear City Commission:
“Previously, I provided to the Mayor and Commission written notice that I did not wish for my employment agreement to be automatically renewed for the next one year term. I now present my desire to voluntarily resign my position of City Manager in favor of retirement.”
“Consistent with Section 4.B. of the employment agreement, I submit that a mutually acceptable effective date be negotiated.”
Emrich told the board that he was willing to work through March 14, 2012, which would mark the anniversary of his employment with the City of Madison.
Emrich’s contract officially ends with the city on Dec. 31, but he noted that the holiday season is a tough time to find a replacement.
A vote was taken to discuss the issue of when Emrich’s employment should end at the next regular board meeting. The vote passed 3-2, with Commissioners Judy Townsend and Rayne Cooks voting against the measure.
Jim Newberry passed away at his home in Madison, FL on Monday, September 26,
2011 at the age of 81 after an extended illness. He was born July 24, 1930 in Bealeton, VA, the son of Mr. & Mrs. Harvey G. Newberry. He spent his early years in Warrenton, VA and entered the U.S. Navy at the age of 17. He retired as a Senior Chief Petty Officer in 1974. He moved his family to the family farm in Madison County in 1979 where he lived until his death.
He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Florence Littleton Newberry, two sons, Roger Newberry and his wife Lisa of Lake City, Florida and Paul Newberry and his wife Karla of Elon, North Carolina, two daughters, Julie Newberry and husband Roger Smith of Longwood, Florida and Heidi Newberry of Madison, Florida, 8 grandchildren: Amanda Baranowski, Justin Newberry, Caleb Newberry, Jordon Newberry, Chelsae Newberry, Crystal Eubanks, Autumn Newberry, and Lindsey Newberry; also two great-grandchildren: Katia Baranowski and Zeke Eubanks.
He is preceded in death by his son, James L. Newberry, Jr.
Visitation was held on Wednesday, September 28, 2011 at the Beggs Funeral Home in Madison, Florida. Funeral Services were held at the Hanson United Methodist Church at 11:00 am on Thursday, September 29, 2011.
Donations may be made to the Hanson United Methodist Church Building Fund or to Big Bend Hospice.
April 7, 1927-September 28, 2011 In loving memory
The family of Helen Sue Hendry McHargue celebrates the passing of her earthly life to her heavenly home following a long struggle with cancer. She peacefully left this life under the loving care of the capable staff at the Madison County Memorial Hospital, the Big Bend Hospice and the Madison Nursing Center on Wednesday, September 28th. Funeral services will be held at the Beggs Memorial Chapel on Sunday, October 2, 2011 at 2 p.m., followed by internment at the Concord Cemetery. Family will receive friends at Beggs Funeral Home in Madison on Saturday night, October 1, 2011 between 5-7 p.m.
Helen Sue, commonly referred to as “Mema,” was married to Harold Edsel McHargue, Sr. who preceded her in death on January 1, 2005. Together, they raised 5 children, Harold Edsel McHargue, Jr. (wife Debbie Hammock McHargue); Melody Rebecca McHargue Taylor (Husband Jim Taylor); Mamry Michael McHargue (wife Ruth Wimberly McHargue; Stephen Bryan McHargue, (wife Jan Williams McHargue; and Gregory Scott McHargue (wife Vicki Souders McHargue of Brunswick, Georgia. Helen is also survived by 10 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.
Helen was born in Cherry Lake on April 7, 1927 as the sole daughter of Mamry E. Hendry and Lelia Browning Hendry. Her brothers, Browning Hendry, Hybert “Skip” Hendry, George Alton Hendry and Bill Mack Hendry also preceded her in death.
Helen lived a full and glorious life as a mother and homemaker supporting her family while her husband, Harold, provided for the family as a long haul truck driver for Belford Trucking Company. She was an avid supporter of the Greenville High School athletics and music programs. She regularly hosted student athletes with transportation to and from practices and games and enjoyed her extended family of student athletes.
She attended Berry College in Atlanta, Georgia, where, as a member of the Ballad Girls, sang for members of the military and at functions for very important persons, including Henry Ford and other notables of her era.
She was most proud of the accomplishments of her children and grandchildren and supported every aspect of their educational endeavors and professional careers. Her legacy as a mother and friend to so many will be long remembered and cherished.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to Big Bend Hospice, 1723 Mahan Center Blvd. Tallahassee, FL 32308.
11/23/1950 – 9/28/11
Beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and dear friend joined “His” heavenly father Wednesday, September 28, 2011 at his home after his valiant fight for life.
Barry leaves behind the “Love of his life” Suzzi Beall of 19 years.
Barry was born in Coleman, Alabama of Hazel Beall of Melbourne, Florida and his pre-deceased father Ernie Beall. He leaves behind his children Wanda Riley (Mike), Carolyn DeLeon (Brian) and Gage Baxter and step-children Debra Fasnacht (Russ) and Shane Buzzo; a brother, Scott Beall; a sister Suzanne Snyder as well as eight grandchildren, Nichole Buzzo, Monique Bott, Mackenzie Riley, Emma DeLeon, Ava DeLeon, Ian DeLeon, Samuel Riley, Alisa Buzzo and great grandson Brock Buzzo; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.
Barry was a faithful member of Fellowship Baptist Church of Madison. He was an avid lover of corvettes and belonged to the Sons of the Confederate Veterans. His heart returns to the water as an avid sports fisherman and a licensed captain.
All services will be held at Beggs Funeral Home. 235 NW Orange Avenue, Madison, Florida. Family will be welcoming friends at Beggs Friday Sept. 30, 2011 from 5-7 p.m. A Remembrance Service will be held Saturday Oct. 2, 2011, at 11 a.m.
By Claudia Anderson,
Vice President Madison County Republican Club
Very little media attention has been given to something that has become a huge scandal. This Operation Gun Walker a/k/a “Fast and Furious,” needs much attention by everyone and all media.
Early this year, it was disclosed that the ATF and Obama Justice Department had been selling 2,500 assault rifles to Mexican drug connections in the United States to be “walked” across the Mexican border. The theory being that the American government would then be able to track the guns via their serial numbers and paint a picture of drug cartel activity, by where the guns showed up. However, it seems that somewhere between 1,200 and 1,300 of the weapons are now unaccounted for and perhaps some of the greatest tracking “success” has come where weapons connected with more than 200 murders were linked to Operation Gun Walker guns.
Very recently, U.S. Border Patrol Agents found an arsenal of weapons including assault rifles and explosives inside the U.S. border and according to the Wall Street Journal, June 08, 2011, regarding another incident, “An arsenal found in Mexico included at least five assault rifles that U.S authorities trace to a federal operation gone badly awry, according to government documents. The discovery appears to confirm, for the first time, fears cited by Republican lawmakers that a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives operation called Fast and Furious failed to stop guns from ending up with drug gangs in Mexico.”
In March, President Barack Obama acknowledged that the plan was flawed and it could be that a serious mistake was made, in which case, someone will be held accountable.
Sen. Charles Grassley, Iowa Republican, called for an independent investigation into the operation and called for “heads to roll” and Rep. Darrell Issa, R-Calif., said the operation “looks an awful lot like Iran-Contra,” the scandal that put a shadow over Ronald Reagan’s presidency, during congressional hearings he chaired. John Casa, an agent at the ATF’s Phoenix Field office called the program “a colossal failure of leadership.”
Now the idea is to use the government authorized illegal gun sales as evidence that our constitution authorized bearing of arms needs more regulations. . Yes, MORE REGULATIONS ARE NEEDED ON THE ATF AND THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT!
There must be accountability for those individuals and agencies who ordered and approved the illegal sale and trafficking of these weapons that continue to flood back into the US and are responsible for so many deaths, one of which is that of Brian Terry of the Border Patrol’s elite Tactical Unit known as BORTAC. According to family and coworkers, Brian was an amazing young man, strong, courageous and incredibly patriotic with a nick name of “Superman”. This fine young man was murdered while on duty days before Christmas 2010 at a distance of 18 miles inside our border with the assistance of “THE FAST AND FURIOUS GUN WALKER”.
_______________________________________
The REPUBLICAN CLUB of Madison CountyWill meet at noon Monday, October 10, at Shelby’s RestaurantWe welcome all to join us.
Paid for and approved by the Madison County Republican Executive CommitteeMadisonRepublican@embarqmail.com
By Becky V. Bennett
Madison Extension Office
October 7th is National Denim Day where we can celebrate the many wonders of jeans! Jeans you say? Just how can jeans be that important? Let’s do some digging 4-H style…
Head—Denim material has been around since the 1600s, but what we know as “jeans” today was not invented or patented until 1873 by German immigrants Jacob Davis and Levi Strauss (yes that Levi!). The term “denim” is thought to be derived from the French term “serge de Nîmes,” as the material was thought to have originated in Nîmes, France. Now here’s the kicker…the term “jean” originated in Genoa, Italy. Jean material is actually a cheaper version of denim and is made from a cotton, linen, and/or wool blend of the same color. Davis combined the two methods to create denim jeans adding rivets to the pockets to increase durability.
Heart — Modern jeans today were originally created for miners, millworkers, ranchers, and cowboys. The durable material soon morphed into a means of rebellion for 1950s youth, then into a representation of egalitarianism in the 1960s, and finally became all about fashion statements in the 1970s up to the present.
Hands — Although hundreds of brands and designs have come along since Davis and Strauss’ original design, the methods of producing denim and constructing jeans has remained relatively the same. Cotton warp yarn dyed a specific color (often blue) is interwoven with white cotton filler yarn in either a left or right hand twill creating a twill weave. Originally jeans were a cotton only product, now it is combined with other synthetic materials such as spandex.
Health — Levi’s® launched its global creative platform this year in which the company is encouraging youth to “Go Forth!” This initiative seeks to inspire pioneering spirits to help in global sustainability efforts. Several organizations use blue jeans to bring awareness to their cause as well as raise money for communities in need. Blue jeans have become synonymous with strength and comfort in today’s society. Casual Friday’s have taken on a whole new meaning in a time where people are pulling together to better the lives of others.
So, there you have it: agriculture, fashion, sewing, artisanship, science, entrepreneurship, community service, and so many more themes we focus on in 4-H in just one little pair of jeans! If you thought this was interesting, just wait until you discover all of the wonderful projects and topics we learn about in 4-H. Stop by and discover your passion!
Becky V. Bennett
The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) is an Equal Employment Opportunity—Affirmative Action Employer authorized to provide research, educational information and other services only to individuals and institutions that function with non-discrimination with respect to race, creed, color, religion, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, political opinions or affiliations. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Cooperative Extension Service, University of Florida, IFAS, Florida A&M. University Cooperative Extension Program, and Boards of County Commissioners Cooperating.
By Jacob Bembry
The night was cold and dreary. The sentry was lonely as he waited alone in the darkness.
There had been word that the enemy was close by and he dreaded the thought that one of them would discover his position.
If he only knew what was going on near him, he would have probably died from the shock. Instead, he reached deep within himself and drew from the well of faith. He began to pray and then he sang the words to “Jesus, Lover of My Soul” in a beautiful loud voice.
Lurking in the darkness nearby was an enemy scouting party with all their guns aimed at the young Confederate soldier. They had every intention of killing him until he sang the words “Cover my defenseless head with the shadow of thy wings.”
The leader of the Union scouting party heard the sentry singing and told his men, “Boys, put down your rifles; we will go home.”
Dwight Moody tells the story that years later, the two men were on a ship crossing the Atlantic. The Union soldier and another man had met to sing hymns together when the scout heard the voice of the young soldier behind him singing out in a clear, recognizable voice.
The two men shared their story of God’s great protection and provision in the darkest of times.
God watches over us, even in the darkest of nights when we’re all alone and the enemy has us in his sights. God is the true sentry of our souls.
By William Smith
Special from ECB Publishing
Aggressive defensive dominance paved the way in another conference victory for the Warriors of Aucilla Christian Academy as they defeated rival John Paul II by a score of 40-0, improving their season record to three wins and one loss. It was a game that was characterized defensively for the Warriors by the fundamentals of sound tackling and physical play.
This is the second time this year that the Warrior’s stingy defense has recorded a shutout, including the season-opening 21-0 victory over Bell. It was a performance that coaches and players sought after throughout the week of practice leading into this contest.
“It was our specific goal for this week’s game that we not allow even one score by John Paul.” said assistant head coach Dave Roberts. “The defense played well. We achieved that goal through discipline and effort, and I expect more of the same throughout the season.”
From the opening snap, the Warriors displayed a hard-nosed determination to control the line of scrimmage, employing a gap-sound mentality that limited John Paul II in its ability to rush the football effectively, thereby making its offense one-dimensional. From this position of advantage Aucilla cashed in on repeated turnovers by an increasingly demoralized John Paul II offense that struggled to make forward progress.
Nothing defined this crucial battle in the trenches better than a second-quarter stand by the Warriors’ defensive front along John Paul’s own goal line, in which repeated attempts by the Panthers to gain ground through power running failed, resulting in a safety by junior Jared Jackson that further galvanized the Warrior defense.
The rigid defensive unit was led by junior linebacker Gus Smyrnios, who recorded 12 total tackles including a tackle for loss, as well as forced fumble, a fumble recovery for a touchdown, and a sack.
To compliment the physical play of the defense, the Warrior offense followed suite with an impressive display of rushing skill, gaining nearly 250 yards on the ground in sustained drives which effectively exhausted John Paul’s defensive front and allowed a swift end to the contest.
Leading the rushing attack was junior Jarrod Turner, who carried the ball 17 times for 112 yards and a touchdown, including several impressively physical runs in traffic that gashed the Panther defense for large chunks of yardage.
The success of the Warrior rushing attack took precedence over the aerial assault as Aucilla coaches visibly concentrated on establishing a physical presence throughout the game. Junior backup quarterback Hans Sorenson led the Warriors with 24 yards passing and a lone touchdown.
Within the past two weeks, Aucilla has outscored its opponents 107-13, a hot streak that bodes well for the coming schedule, which features several divisional games that will determine the Warrior’s conference fate.
In the coming week, Aucilla is slated to face the Wolves of Saint Francis in another conference matchup, scheduled to begin at 7:00 P.M. on Friday, September 30th in Gainesville, FL.
By Kristin Finney
Greene Publishing, Inc.
While Lee Williams might not be considered one of the older residents in Madison, his memory of Madison County is extensive and his love for this county is strong. Williams was born and raised in Madison: more specifically Lee (people called him “Lee from Lee”), until 14 years ago when he moved to Cherry Lake. His entire life has been spent in Madison County.
Williams attended school in lee and remembers spending his afternoons after school got out going to see movies at Woodman’s and Swans Theatre as well as the drive in that used to be beside Yellow Pine Subdivision.
Another memory that he has is of all the stores that used to inhabit Madison, such as Pick-n-Save, Setzers and many others. “There used to be a lot of stores here that aren’t here anymore,” said Williams. He also recalls when gas was 79 cents per gallon, milk was 99 cents per gallon and you could buy three loaves of bread for one dollar.
He recalls spending a lot of time fishing down on the river when he was younger. “You can’t do that now though, because so many people have bought all the land along the river,” he explained. Blue Springs was another spot that he and his friends spent a lot of time.
“Things have changed a lot over the years. It is really different than it used to be,” he said.
As for jobs, Williams worked at Ken’s BBQ as a cook for five years and worked for Clover Farm for 24 years.
Williams’ grandfather was a Baptist preacher. His father ran for Mayor of Lee. His wife, Teresa, works at the Madison County Extension Office and the Recycle Center out on Rocky Ford. They have been together for 24 years. He has two sons, one is 21 and attending the police academy, the other is 16 and plays varsity Cowboy football at Madison County High School.
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.
The Churchmen, a bluegrass gospel group, will appear in concert at Sirmans Baptist Church, 168 Sirmans Church Road, Saturday, Oct. 8, at 7 p.m. Admission is free and everyone is welcome.
The Churchmen have been recognized by the popular web based radio dedicated to Bluegrass Gospel Music 24 hours a day. The web site named them as the 2008 Bluegrass Gospel Group of the Year and their latest release “I’ll be Long Gone” as Album of the Year. The Churchmen record for Pinecastle records and their latest release is the 3rd project since joining with Pinecastle. The CD was released in mid-summer to radio with the retail release on November 4, 2008. Highlighted on the album is the song writing talents and voice of David Guthrie, who joined the group January of 2007 and fiddle veteran Tim Smith joining September 2007.
The Churchmen are closing in on twenty years of performing and recording bluegrass gospel music.
By Nell Dobbs
Songs…”Why Do I Sing About Jesus?” “How Can I Keep from Singing?” “God is Good All the Time.” “Nobody Fills My Heart Like Jesus.” “Wherever He Leads, I’ll Go.” “We’re Marching to Zion.”
Indeed, we are pilgrims in this land and are looking for that City to be with Jesus and all who love Him. We are to rejoice and be glad and sing hymns and songs.
We do not want to follow Jesus afar off; we do not want to deny Him; we do not want to fail to tell of His love, mercy and grace; we do not want to miss Heaven.
Death comes. We pray comfort for our Preacher and Diana in the death of her mother, Mrs. Connie Alvis; and all their family. Marjell always said when you lose your mother, you lost your best friend. He lost his at 62; we lost mine at 88, minus 10 days.
Pray comfort, too, for Eunice (Strickland) Rowell in the death of her only son, Mike, leaving five children; the family of Gerald Haynes in his sudden death (he was indeed a special person and his widow a very special nurse – both friends!); for the family of our friend and neighbor, Jim Newberry. He always cared about everybody.
“A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches!” Proverbs 22:1 Thinking of great women named Geneva: Geneva Bowman, now of Harmony Baptist, wife of Preacher Bob of Pine Grove (long ago); Geneva (Pulliam) Harris, a neighbor and a longtime friend with a lovely family, now in Madison Nursing Home; Geneva Massey of our church, not feeling well at all and asking us to remember her family and her in prayers.
Remember what our hand finds to do, do it with our might, for we shall not pass this way again.
From Archie Strickland as he spoke at Hanson Methodist Church on Sept. 14, 2005:
“If you are planning for a year, sow rice,
If you are planning for a decade, plant trees,
If you are planning for a lifetime, educate people.”
And a Chinese proverb: “If you are planning for death, make sure you accept Jesus in order to live with Him forever.”
Jim is issuing an invitation to join the choir, especially to prepare for the Christmas cantata.
Sunday, Oct. 1, is Sunday School Promotion Sunday and an invitation is made by our new director, Kathy McCollum, to come join a class. We pray for her. She left our Dorcas/Mary Martha Class to do that. We give thanks for her being a very Bible-learned teacher. Before her, Debbie Bass was also a wonderful, giving teacher; and now, Teresa Gallegos led of the Lord to be our teacher. She is teaching for the first time and we’ll all be blessed by her. Thanks to all in every position who love the Lord and give so much of themselves to lead and labor. Thankful Iduma Smith joined us for Sunday School Sunday.
Begin filling Christmas shoeboxes.
There’s nothing like newborn babies. Martha and Jimmy Register rejoice over Luke Grant, born to Christy and Carter Grant on Sept. 14, weighing six pounds, four ounces.
We are very, very thankful for all who worship with us.
Prayers continue for Mike and Tori Woods; W.C. and Frances Copeland; Estelle and George Osborne; Jimmy Roebuck and his daughter, Teresa; Janet and Jeff Bailey; Catherine Maultsby and all those who gave blood; and the many, many other ill ones.
Lord, please help us love You and serve You as we need to – as we love others. Amen.
Roberta “Bird” McDonald of Lee passed away on September 26, 2011 at her home.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, September 30, 2011 at Lee United Methodist Church in Lee. Visitation will be held Thursday, September 29, 2011, at Beggs Funeral Home from 5-7 p.m.
She was born March 21, 1959 in Warwick, Rhode Island.
Mrs. McDonald was a loving wife and mother. She wrote the “Pinetta Praddle” for the Enterprise-Recorder for several years and spent time volunteering at Lake Park of Madison Nursing Home. She was a member of Lee Methodist Church.
Mrs. McDonald is survived by her husband, Charles McDonald, Sr. of Lee; a son, Charles McDonald, Jr. (Stacey) of Lee; daughter, Chelsea McDonald of Lee; parents, Franklin C. Brunner and Mary Alice Brunner of Haines City; brother, Joseph Buonacorsi of Providence, R.I.; three sisters, Cheryl Archambault (Richard) of Lee Gail Disbennett (Richard) of Circleville, Ohio; Dawn Hiatt (John) of Altamonte Springs: five grandchildren, Makayla McDonald, Auston Lyons, Charles McDonald III, Michael McDonald and Ian McDonald, all from Lee.
Beggs Funeral Home, Madison Chapel, is in charge of arrangements. (850) 973-2258.
By Lynette Norris
Greene Publishing, Inc.
At its last regular meeting, the County Commission passed an ordinance repealing any and all previous local rules and regulations that might still be on the county books regarding the sale and use of firearms.
Acting on the advice of county attorney Tom Reeves, and in response to a bill passed by the Florida Legislature affirming that the Legislature has the sole authority to regulate firearms, the Commissioners passed the preemptive ordinance to protect the county from any possible lawsuits.
Theoretically, if any local regulation remains on Madison County’s books that could be interpreted as encroaching on state authority, and if an individual felt that such an existing local regulation unfairly restricted his or her right to purchase, own and/or carry firearms, above and beyond what the state had already spelled out, then that person could file a lawsuit against the county.
During a time of tight budgets and hard economic conditions, Reeves advised, a lawsuit would be something the county could ill afford. The preemptive ordinance would prevent that, by rending all the county’s previous firearm-related ordinances null and void. The only other option would be an exhaustive search of the county law books for such regulations and striking them individually, with the possible risk that something might still be overlooked.
Marianne Green addressed the Commission, raising concerns that such an action would hamper the county’s ability to check on roadside firearm purchases, or would not give local law enforcement adequate power to be able to run background checks on potential gun buyers and permit applicants. This was leaving everything to the state, she said. “What if the state isn’t all that careful?”
Reeves assured Green that the State’s action did not affect the county’s ability to enforce state and federal regulations already in place; the county simply cannot add more regulations of its own. Any background checks or other regulations currently authorized by the State of Florida can still be carried out by local law enforcement. Also, the county can still regulate firearms carried by its own law enforcement and other employees. The measure under consideration was simply for the county’s legal and financial protection.
The Commissioners voted unanimously to pass the ordinance.
By Jacob Bembry
Greene Publishing, Inc.
Two teenagers were injured in an automobile accident at the intersection of State Road 14 South and Highway 360A on Monday afternoon, Sept. 26.
According to a Florida Highway Patrol report, Kelia Brown, 17, of Madison, was traveling southbound on SR 14 in a 1998 Dodge Neon. She was behind a 1998 Ford pickup, driven by Samantha Tyler, 17, of Perry.
Tyler stopped, attempting to make a left turn into a private driveway. Brown failed to reduce her speed in time.
The front of the Neon struck the right rear of the pickup.
Brown and her passenger, Antonia Seabrooks, 17, suffered minor injuries in the wreck.
According to the FHP, the Madison County Sheriff’s Office, Madison Fire and Rescue and Madison County EMS assisted at the scene.
FHP Trooper J.M. Beauford was the investigating officer.
Submitted by Covey Washington,
Madison/Jefferson County Extension Agent 1
It’s that time of year again; football season, nice comfortable weather, cooler evenings, and the peak season for the potentially serious illness, West Nile Virus (WNV). There have been 15 human cases reported in Florida this summer. All of them are in Duval County and two cases were fatal. It has been detected in three sentinel chicken test locations in Leon County. WNV is a seasonal epidemic in North America that flares up in the summer months and continues into the fall. It has been common in Africa, West Asia, and the Middle East for more than 50 years but scientists believe it made its presence in the U.S. around 1999. WNV was first detected in Florida in a dead crow in June, 2001 in Jefferson County.
Transmission
The most important mode of transmission of WNV to humans and horses is through the bite of a WNV-infected mosquito. Mosquitoes usually obtain the virus by feeding on infected wild birds. After the mosquito feeds on an infected bird the virus goes through a temperature-dependent incubation period within the mosquito. At the end of the incubation period the virus can be passed on each time the infected mosquito feeds on a human or other animal. When the infected mosquito blood-feeds, WNV is mixed with the mosquito’s saliva and released into the bloodstream of the second host, where it can multiply and possibly cause illness. If the second host is susceptible to the virus, a WNV infection may result.
n a very small number of cases, WNV has been spread through blood transfusions, organ transplants, breastfeeding and even during pregnancy from mother to baby.
WNV cannot be transmitted from one human to another through casual contact. Also, It is not transmitted from birds to humans or from horses to humans. There is no evidence that it can be transmitted to humans by the consumption of cooked infected birds, eggs, or other animals. A human or animal that survives a WNV infection is assumed to have a lifelong immunity to the virus.
Even in areas where the virus is circulating, very few mosquitoes are infected with the virus. If the mosquito is infected, less than 1% of people who get bitten and become infected will get severely ill. The chances you will become severely ill from one mosquito bite are extremely small.
Symptoms
Humans typically develop symptoms between 2 and 15 days after they are bitten by an infected mosquito. Approximately 80 percent of people who are infected with WNV will not show any symptoms at all. Up to 20 percent of people who become infected have symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting, skin rash on chest, stomach or back, and sometimes swollen lymph glands. These symptoms can persist for as short as a few days up to several weeks. About 1 in 150 people infected with WNV will develop severe illness. The severe symptoms include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness and paralysis. These severe symptoms may last several weeks, and neurological effects may be permanent.
Though the virus can infect humans of all ages, people over age 50 and some immunocompromised people (for example, transplant patients, HIV) are at higher risk for getting severely ill when infected with WNV.
Horses
Horses that are infected with WNV most often exhibit signs of ataxia (loss of muscle coordination) affecting the rear limbs causing stumbling, staggering, and a wobbly gait. Other signs include teeth grinding, lying down with difficulty and inability to rise, facial paralysis, twitching and blindness. Horses that are infected with WNV are not required to be euthanized. They should be euthanized only when they are suffering from a severe case and are unlikely to recover. Since horses do not produce substantial WNV viremias in their blood (does not replicate), they are dead-end hosts. This means that it is unlikely that mosquitoes feeding on infected horses ingest enough WNV to become infective and transmit the virus to humans and other animals. Also, since horses are dead-end hosts, quarantines of infected animals are not required.
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services urges all equine owners to have their horses vaccinated against WNV and to be vigilant about scheduling booster shots at regular intervals. Horses that have been vaccinated against eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEEV) are not protected from WNV infection.
How to Reduce Risk of Infection
Since the primary source are mosquitoes, the easiest and best way to avoid WNV is to prevent mosquito bites. When outside, use an EPA approved insect repellent (follow directions on the package). If you must be outside during peak biting times(dusk and dawn), wear long sleeves and long pants. Make sure door and window screens are in good condition. Flush out water in bird baths, toys, flower pot overflow dishes, and outdoor pet dishes every 3-4 days. Remove leaf litter, standing water, and debris from gutters and boat covers.
By Jacob Bembry
Greene Publishing, Inc.
Two people were injured in a collision last Wednesday, Sept. 21.
According to a Florida Highway Patrol report, at approximately 2:20 p.m., Frank Grady Johnson III, 39, of Tampa, was traveling east on Interstate 10 in the eastbound lane. Johnson was driving a 2008 Nissan.
At the same time, Kiumin Cao, 35, of Monterey Park, Cal., was also traveling east in the eastbound lane. Cao was driving a 2011 Toyota van.
Johnson reportedly failed to use due care and struck the rear of the Toyota.
The Toyota came to a final rest, facing east in the eastbound lane of I-10, east of the area of collision.
Johnson’s Nissan came to a final rest facing east on the south shoulder of I-10, east of the area of collision. Cao and Cao’s passenger, Fulong Ma, 41, also of Monterey Park, Cal. suffered minor injuries in the collision.
The wreck happened near the 251 mile marker. FHP Trooper Charles Swindle was the investigating officer.
