5-18-12

LIVE OAK, FL, May 18, 2012 – The Suwannee River Water Management District Executive Director Selection Committee conducted interviews today with four candidates for the position of executive director. Following interviews and discussion of the committee, the committee selected Ann Shortelle as their top candidate. The candidate is scheduled to go before the full governing board for final approval on June 12.

The candidates that were interviewed are as follows: Shortelle, director of the Office of Water Policy for Florida Department of Environmental Protection; Steve Minnis, director of Governmental Affairs for the District; Chuck Walter, director of Science and Information for Applied Sciences Consulting Inc.; and Cliff Lewis, assistant branch chief of the Water Protection Branch for the Georgia Department of Natural Resources: Environmental Protection Division.

The selection committee is made up of five District Governing Board members – Don Quincey Jr., Heath Davis, George Cole, Donald “Ray” Curtis III, and Carl Meece. Earlier this month, the committee had narrowed the list of 17 candidates applying for the job down to four.

The candidate would start the job soon after contract negotiations with the governing board are finalized. The candidate is subject to confirmation by the Governor and Senate.

5-18-12

On Saturday May 26, the Captain Jack 2012 Fishing Tournament will be held in Alligator Point, Florida. The 1st place offshore division winner will receive $2000 and the 1st place inshore division winner will receive $1000 (amount if minimum 12 boats competing).

Entry pricing for offshore contestants is $350 per boat, which includes 4 anglers. Inshore entry pricing is $175 per boat, which includes 2 anglers. It is then $30 per each additional entry in each category. A contestant’s entry fee pays for T-shirts and a delicious Captain’s Dinner on Friday before the competition.

Join us Saturday afternoon to watch the Weigh-In and enjoy raffle prizes and refreshments.

A portion of these proceeds will benefit the Alligator Point Fire Department and the American Red Cross, Capital Area Chapter.

For contest entry and more information, please contact captainjacktournament@gmail.com. Contestants should note that checks and registration forms not received by May 15 are not guaranteed T-shirts.

5-18-12

The MCHS Doubles Tournament was a huge success! Sponsors, participants, and spectators helped the tennis team raise over $2,000 and revive interest in tennis in Madison County. Many participants asked when the next tournament would be. The idea of regular tournaments, perhaps on the last Saturday of the month, and a Fall tournament was tossed around.

It seems as though the enthusiasm for the great game of tennis may just be coming back to life in this small town once again. With the tournament and the USTA talking of beginning a 10 and younger league it seems opportunities are about to blossom. Keep your eyes peeled for events to come!

The MCHS Tennis team would like to thank all its sponsors, the participants and the people who came to support them on tournament day. It was a real blast!

Congratulations to Eddie Richie & Todd Holmes who took first place in the tournament. Martin & Cullen Gudz took second place with Meghan Harris & Jackie Watts coming in third.

Left to right, Eddie Richie, Meghan Harris, and Todd Holmes

5-18-12

**I met my family – Editorial by John Ovenden **

After 48 years, I finally met my family in person.
There is no way to prepare for the moment I met my mother. I had spoken with her on the phone a few times but that’s not the same as meeting face to face. I waited in the lobby of my motel for my sisters to bring my mother to meet me. This was when my nerves kicked in. I don’t care how tough or prepared I thought I was for this moment, I was shaking like a leaf.

I saw a car pull up and a woman got out alone. Because of the layout of the lobby, I couldn’t see her face. It was only about 10 feet to the front door and maybe 15 feet through the corridor. When she hit the corridor, my life went into slow-motion. Every bit of searching and stories that I had endured were racing through my mind at once. For some reason, any doubts I had about this meeting all came to the surface. I had waited 48 years for this. This was to be the most intense moment of my life.

As she walked through the doorway and looked at me, my heart melted. All of my fears and nervousness just disappeared. I was looking at my Mom and I knew it. We met halfway across the room and hugged for who knows how long. Mom looked up at me, yes I am actually taller than she is, and told me she loved me and she missed me. No one survives that without a tear.

We sat down in the lobby and talked for a while. She cleared up the very few questions I had left. My sisters came back and picked us up and we went out to eat. I felt comfortable at that meal. I felt like I belonged. Corny? Maybe, but true. They all came and picked me up again later and brought me to my sister Connie’s house to visit for a couple of hours. Though I was enjoying the visit, I was emotionally drained. They took me back to my motel. I bet I was asleep in minutes.

The next day I went back to Connie’s house where many of my newfound relatives came to meet me. I have a big family now and still more relatives contacting me that couldn’t attend. I could not have received a warmer welcome. Everyone was friendly and fun to be around.

I visited my sisters and family the next day before I left. Leaving was a hard thing to do. I hugged everyone but couldn’t seem to hug my Mom enough. I just hated leaving her.

I’ve always felt a little out of place in my life. Even though I always knew I was adopted, I always felt as if there was a void in my life. As I got older, this feeling grew. It was an unhappiness that could only be cured by finding my family.

This has taken more of an emotional toll on me than I expected. Mentally, I’m not back in Madison yet. I miss my family. I speak with my Mom on the phone at least twice a day. Though I’ve lived in Madison almost 10 years and made countless friends, I can’t help but feel a pull toward my family. It was hard to leave them and come back home. My family has made me feel welcome and my Mom is just waiting for me to tell her that I’m moving to her neighborhood. Bless her heart. I love her so much.

This whole story could have turned out so different. So many things fell into place in a short time to make this happen. Obviously it was meant to be. It’s like I’m living a Hallmark movie. My head is in the clouds. Things that seemed important before, don’t anymore. It’s like I’m re-evaluating my life or even starting over. I’m not really sure what’s going on in my head right now but my heart is in Tennessee with my family.

John Ovenden – Davis

My Mom and I

5-17-12

This week’s sale:

Tomatoes .99 lb
Blue Lake, Rattlesnake, and Roma II snap beans .99 lb
Branford Watermelons $5.00
New Products….Cauliflower, Spinach and Broccoli

**CLICK ON THE IMAGE BELOW TO ENLAGRE**

CSL Produce
559 E Base St.
Madison, FL 32340
850-973-2350
Store hours: Mon- Sat 9am – 6pm

Located at the old “Big Mike’s” produce stand

4-5-12

5-17-12

Madison County football fans got a glimpse of the 2012 Cowboys tonight at Boot Hill Stadium. In the annual intrasquad scrimmage the game was scoreless until the third quarter when with 5:00 minutes remaining Deonshay Wells scored a touchdown for the Silver. The extra point attempt by Andrew Strom failed. The Maroon scored with 4:47 remaining in the game when DJ McKnight threw a touchdown pass to Brandon Crawford. Zach Money’s extra point kick made the difference and allowed the Maroon to come away with a 7-6 win.

5-17-12

5-17-12

RIGHT CLICK here and choose “Save target as” to download the video to your computer.

The first section up to the break was using a boom mic which doesn’t pic up the sound as well.

Unfortunately the battery died near the end of the meeting.

Video hosted by:

5-17-12

This is for the woman who wants more fire power in the hand gun she carries. The Diamond Back 9mm concealable pistol. Come see it today along with the Lady 380 caliber by Taurus and all the concealable guns we have in stock.

5-17-12   

5-17-12

The annual Maroon and Silver football game will be held Thursday, May 17 at Madison County High School’s Boot Hill Stadium. The intrasquad scrimmage begins at 6:00 p.m.

5-16-12

Because Memorial Day weekend, which kicks off summer activities, is right around the corner, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) reminds all boaters in Florida to rededicate themselves to boating safely.

“Florida is a great place to enjoy boating year-round,” said Col. Jim Brown, director of the FWC’s Division of Law Enforcement. “That weekend marks the unofficial beginning of summer and means even more people will be out on the water. National Safe Boating Week (May 19-25) also presents an opportunity to emphasize the importance of remaining safe while boating.”

Memorial Day weekend is May 26-28.

The safe-boating effort is timely, as 10 people have already lost their lives this year due to boating accidents.

“We want to reach out to as many boaters as we can to help them understand that most boating accidents are preventable,” Brown said. “FWC officers are committed to keeping people as safe as possible, but we need your help.”

The FWC reminds boaters to enjoy their time on the water by remembering a few safety precautions, such as remaining alert while operating a boat, wearing a life jacket at all times and designating a sober boat operator.

According to the FWC, inattentiveness of the operator often contributes to boating accidents, and statistics show that more than 64 percent of the 66 boating-related deaths confirmed last year were attributed to drowning.

The wide variety of comfortable, affordable and stylish life jackets on the market today offers all boaters the protection they need.

“Boating smart and safely could result in fewer injuries and deaths each year,” Brown said.

More information can be found by visiting MyFWC.com/Boating.

5-16-12

Letter to the Editor

Recently, at my business, we were visited by members of the Lions Club in regards to sponsoring the “God and Country Fourth of July Celebration”. I absolutely loved the idea! We were given the sponsorship information and they explained the money involved in donating. I thought, “what a great idea!” Also I love the Fourth of July events here in Madison, it always reminds me why I love living in a small town, and the success of our business is because of the support of the community so it is a good opportunity to give back. The only concern that I now have is that after reading an article in the local newspaper it has been brought to my attention that the entire profits from the celebration will be donated only to one area school for playground equipment (Madison County Central School). This is not an attack on that particular school, but every school in our community has suffered from budget cuts, many of our teachers have to spend money from their own salaries just to keep supplies in their classrooms. It seems that the Fourth of July event will bring together the entire county so why not split the funds between all the county schools. Can anyone elaborate on how the decision was made to use the celebration funds in this way?

M.J. Kinard

5-16-12

Lake Park, GA: Kenneth Warren Sexton, age 80 died Tuesday, May 15, 2012 at Holly Hill Nursing Home, Lake Park.

Funeral services will be 11:00 AM Saturday at Beggs Chapel with burial at Lee Memorial Cemetery. Visitation will be from 7 – 8 PM Friday at Beggs Funeral Home.

He lived 30 years in Union Park, FL before moving to Lee in 1971 and later to Lake Park, GA. He was agricultural Inspector for State of Florida Dept of Agriculture. He attended Oviedo and Madison Lodge. He was a member of Lee First Baptist Church.

Survivors include his wife: Meda Sexton; 2 sons: Kenneth Eddie Sexton (Penny) and Johnny Jack Sexton (Sharon) both of Lake Park; 2 brothers: Malcolm Sexton (Gladys) of Lee and Donald Sexton (Lottie) of Winter Park, FL; 2 Grandchildren: Baptisa and Angela and 5 Great Grandchildren.

5-15-12

Madison: Thomas Pinkard, age 86, died Sunday, May 13, 2012 at Haven Hospice Care, Lake City.

Funeral services will be 11:00 AM Thursday, May 17, 2012 at Beggs Funeral Home Madison Chapel with burial at Oak Ridge Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6 – 8 PM Wednesday, May 16, 2012 at Beggs Funeral Home.

He lived in Madison all of his life and retired from Tri-County Electric Cooperative. He was a member of Mt. Olive Baptist Church.

He is survived by 1 son: John Pinkard (Susan) of Madison; 1 daughter: Charlotte Cannon of Live Oak; 3 brothers: Owen Pinkard of Dothan, AL, Raymond Pinkard of Mobil, AL, and Alfred Pinkard of Madison; 2 sisters: Jean Bell and Kathleen Kinsey both of Madison; 7 Grandchildren and 15 Great Grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife: Marie Pinkard.

Beggs Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. 850-973-2258.

AGENDA FOR THE REGULAR SESSION OF THE
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF MADISON COUNTY, FL,
TO BE HELD AT THE COMMISSIONERS MEETING ROOM
COURTHOUSE ANNEX, WEDNESDAY,
May 16, 2012, 4:00 p.m.

ROLL CALL

ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA

PETITIONS FROM THE PUBLIC – FIVE (5) MINUTE LIMIT

APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES FROM THE REGULAR MEETING HELD May 2, 2012.

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

1. Constitutional Officers
2. County Attorney
3. County Coordinator

CONSENT AGENDA
1. Budget Amendment Request for Community Development Block Grant to Budget FY 2012 CDBG Neighborhood Revitalization Grant.
2. Budget Amendment Request for Emergency Medical Service to Budget E911 Maintenance Grant.

PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
1. Request to Piggy-back on CR 150 Bid to Resurface NW Concord Church Road – Mr. Lonnie Thigpen and Commissioner Vickers.

2. Request to Piggy-back on NW Honey Lake Road Bid to Pave NW Whelks Lane – Mr. Lonnie Thigpen and Commissioner Parrish.

3. Request for Maintenance Map for NE Hickory Grove Road – Mr. Lonnie Thigpen and Commissioner Vickers.

4. Request to Piggy-back on CR 150 Bid to Pave Greenville Collection Site – Mr. Jerome Wyche.

5. Approval for Replacement of Employee at the Road Department – Mr. Lonnie Thigpen.

6. Review with Possible Approval of Time Extension Request by Southern Concrete Construction for CR 150 Bridge Project – Mr. Lonnie Thigpen.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

1. .

NEW BUSINESS
1. 4:00 P.M. – Public Hearing to Enact Ordinance Regarding Internet Café Style Businesses Locating Within the Unincorporated Areas of Madison County.

2. Review with Possible Approval of Interlocal Agreement between Madison County and The ARC Big Bend to Operate Cherry Lake Beach – County Attorney and Mr. Tim Ressler.

3. Presentation Regarding Alpha Kappa Alpha (AKA) District Meeting – Ms. Deloris Jones.

4. Discussion with Possible Action of Donation of Surplus Property to the Salvation Army – Mr. George Blevins.

5-14-12

Madison: Douglas Baine Dulin, age 67, died Saturday, May 12, 2012 at Lake City VA Hospice. Graveside funeral services will be 11:00 AM Tuesday, at Oak Ridge Cemetery. Visitation will be Monday, from 5 – 7 PM at the Funeral Home. He was a former farmer, butcher, and Soldier. He was a Army Veteran of Vietnam and Desert Storm. He was a member of the Macedonia Baptist Church in Crofton, KY. Survivors include his son, Richard Dulin, Grant Park, IL. Daughters, Cheryl Newberry, Wendy Conner, Momence, IL, Kimberly Oglesby (Mark), Monticello, FL, Crystal Bochnia (Keith ), Madison, FL, 13 Grandchildren, Brothers, Irvin and bob Dulin, Crofton, KY and sister, Polly Knight and Nanny Cansler Crofton, KY.) Preceded in death by his daughter Bobbie Dulin, brothers, Dink and Jay Dulin. Beggs Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements 850-973-2258.

After 48 years I finally found my mother. This is a great day!

5-10-12

Madison Voice will be frozen in time in the next few hours until sometime Sunday or Monday. I’ve found my family and I’m going to visit them. Family takes priority over everything else. Wow! I’ve never been able to say that before.

John Ovenden

Madison Voice

Thomasville: Walter Edward “Chief” Odom, age 64, died Wednesday, May 9, 2012 at his home in Thomasville.

Funeral services will be 11:00 AM Saturday, at Beggs Funeral Home Madison Chapel with burial at San Pedro Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6 – 8 PM Friday at Beggs Funeral Home Madison Chapel.

He was in Law Enforcement for 18 years and was a former Chief of Police in Madison. He lived most of his life in Madison before moving to Thomasville in 2011, and was a Member of New Home Baptist Church and served in the US Army.

He is survived by his wife: Myrtice Odom of Thomasville; 3 sons: Scooter Odom, Stanley Odom and Rocky Odom; 1 daughter: Shannon Odom; 2 brothers: Steve Odom of Atlanta, GA and Dennis Odom of Cherry Lake; 1 sister: Donna Cruce of Cherry Lake; and 7 Grandchildren.

Beggs Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements: 850-973-2258.

5-10-12

Household furniture for sale: floral couch, cherry and pine end tables, pine curio cabinet, white/oak open hutch, cherry formal dining room set w/China cabinet, computer desks, bookshelves, washers, driers and lots more!

Please contact Barbara or Bob at 971-7255 for any questions and appointments.

5-10-12 *Submitted*

Craig Grant wants to thank the Caboodle Ranch fans for supporting him. He is very confident that his attorneys will prevail and the Caboodle cats will come home. Craig’s legal fees are high, and donations of any size are greatly appreciated.

5-10-12

We have changed our office hours to better serve the voters of Madison County from 7:30 to 5:30 but if these hours will not work please call my cell, 850-545-7228, and I will make arrangements to meet with you.

Thank you,

Thomas “Tommy” Hardee

Madison County Supervisor of Elections

1-16-12

Click here for a sample ballot

5-10-12

~ FHP is hiring 132 qualified people for its next two recruit classes ~

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Are you looking for an exciting career where you can become one of Florida’s finest? The Florida Highway Patrol is accepting applications for the position of state trooper. FHP is looking for qualified applicants to attend academy classes scheduled to begin this year. The 123rd basic recruit class will start July 15, and the 124th basic recruit class will start Dec. 2.

Law enforcement officers with Florida certification who wish to transition to the Patrol may apply for the transitional classes, scheduled to begin in late July and November.

FHP pays recruits $2,514.88 per month when attending the academy, located in Havana, Fla., (just west of Tallahassee). All new recruits must complete 28 weeks of training, and recruits with law enforcement certification must complete eight weeks of transitional training.

FHP recruiters are visiting career fairs, military bases and college campuses in search of qualified individuals who are ready to join the ranks of the Patrol. Individuals interested in learning more about becoming a trooper should visit www.BeATrooper.com and www.flhsmv.gov/fhp/academy/.

FHP is a nationally accredited law enforcement agency that offers diverse working conditions in a culturally and ethnically expanding society. Troopers patrol areas that offer the very best of urban, suburban and rural lifestyles. The Sunshine State is home to more than 19 million residents. Florida’s attractions, such as beautiful beaches, exciting theme parks and many fresh-air outdoor activities bring in more than 85 million visitors annually.

5-10-12

Edward Jones Ranks Highest in Investor Satisfaction
According to J.D. Power and Associates 2012 Full Service Investor Satisfaction Study

For the sixth year out of the past eight, financial-services firm Edward Jones ranks highest in investor satisfaction with full service brokerage firms, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2012 Full Service Investor Satisfaction Study.

The study measures overall investor satisfaction with full service investment firms based on seven factors: investment advisor, investment performance, account information, account offerings, commissions and fees, website and problem resolution.

Edward Jones places its branch offices in the communities where its clients – long-term individual investors – live and work. This practice, which enables its branch teams to provide personalized service to all clients, has helped the firm attain the highest score in the “Investment Advisor” category of the study.

“We are gratified that our clients find it convenient to work with us on their long-term financial goals,” Brad said. “We enjoy working one-on-one with our clients and believe that builds a collaborative relationship.”

Edward Jones also received high marks in the “Account Information” category, an important factor in the study.

“Hearing that we did particularly well in the account information factor is especially meaningful as we strive to help our clients make sense of investing,” Brad said.

Edward Jones’ overall score climbed 15 points over last year, highest among the 14 largest firms rated, as well as 28 points above the industry average.

Edward Jones ranked highest in investor satisfaction by J.D. Power and Associates in 2010 and 2009, from 2005 through 2007, and in a tie in 2002, when the study began. Edward Jones in Canada ranked highest in the J.D. Power and Associates Canadian Full Service Investor Satisfaction Study in 2006 through 2008.

The 2012 Full Service Investor Satisfaction Study is based on responses from 4,378 investors who primarily invest with one of the 14 firms included in the study. The study was fielded in February 2012.

Edward Jones provides financial services for individual investors in the United States and, through its affiliate, in Canada. Every aspect of the firm’s business, from the types of investment options offered to the location of branch offices, is designed to cater to individual investors in the communities in which they live and work. The firm’s 12,000-plus financial advisors work directly with nearly 7 million clients to understand their personal goals — from college savings to retirement — and create long-term investment solutions that emphasize a well-balanced portfolio and a buy-and-hold strategy. Edward Jones embraces the importance of building long-term, face-to-face relationships with clients, helping them to understand and make sense of the investment options available today.

In January 2012, for the 13th year, Edward Jones was named one of the best companies to work for by FORTUNE Magazine in its annual listing. The firm ranked No. 5 overall and No. 3 in Large Size Companies. These 13 FORTUNE rankings include top 10 finishes for nine years, consecutive No. 1 rankings in 2002 and 2003, and consecutive No. 2 rankings in 2009 and 2010. FORTUNE and Time Inc. are not affiliated with and do not endorse products or services of Edward Jones.

Edward Jones is headquartered in St. Louis. The Edward Jones website is located at www.edwardjones.com, and its recruiting website is www.careers.edwardjones.com. Member SIPC.

5-9-12

The members of the U.S. House of Representatives have been working in Washington on 41 of the first 127 days of this year. They are planning to be in session half of the remaining weeks. How long would you keep your job if you worked like that? Even when they show up they fail to address the biggest problems facing the country. It would take a 50% tax increase in order to balance the so called budget yet they are avoiding the problem while the debt grows by 1200 billion dollars per year.

The real problem is you and I let them get away with it. They work for us and we pay them $174,000 per year to do it. Make a commitment to write or call your representative once a week and express your views. See how they respond and let that be your guide to voting this November.

Submitted by:

Irving B. Welchons III

5-9-12

MadisonYES! Approaches Petition Goal!

Lucky Final Signer to Win $50 Visa Card!

“This is going to happen, and it’s going to happen real soon!” said Ted Ensminger, Chairperson for MadisonYES, Inc. He refers to the petition signing effort orchestrated by MadisonYES that began back on February 16 of this year. “Basically we had 120 days to collect almost 3,000 petitions and have them verified by the Office of the Supervisor of Elections (SOE). Through many hours of dedicated effort on behalf of our team of volunteers, I’m pleased to announce that they have collected 88% of the petitions needed in just 70% of the time allotted! A remarkable effort”, Ensminger continued. As of close of business on Wednesday, May 9, a total of 2.578 petitions had been confirmed by the SOE office. In addition, 247 petitions had been delivered to the SOE and not yet processed. Based on previous petition approval percentages, it is quite possible that the organization needs less than 200 petitions to reach its first goal. To be on the safe side, organizers say they will continue to collect the petitions past the first goal to create a surplus in case it become necessary. “This is too important of an effort for Madison County for us to have anything less than success,” Ensminger concluded. MadisonYES is a registered political action committee located in Madison County and is comprised of local businesses and citizen volunteers who are committed to improving the economy and job situation in Madison County. Campaign headquarters are located at 199 W. Base Street, Madison, FL 32340. They can be reached by calling 850-973-4YES (937) or by emailing yes@madisonyes.com . For additional information, statistical data, and how to get involved, go to www.madisonyes.com or visit www.facebook.com/madisonyes.

5-9-12

LIVE OAK, Fla., May 9, 2012 — Twelve representatives were named today to the North Florida Regional Water Supply Partnership’s stakeholder committee, an advisory body that will share viewpoints of stakeholder groups with the St. Johns River and Suwannee River water management districts and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to help address the region’s water supply issues.

Chosen to represent the groups, organizations and entities that have an interest in the region’s water supply, committee members are:

· Public water supply: Ray O. Avery, Clay County Utility Authority; David Clanton, City of Lake City Utilities

· Commercial/power generation: Athena T. Mann, JEA; James Cornett, Cornett’s Spirit of the Suwannee Inc.

· Industrial/mining: J. Michael O’Berry, Vulcan Materials Co.; Stan Posey, PCS Phosphate

· Agriculture: Kerry Kates, Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association; Thomas Harper, Harper Farms

· Environmental: Patrick T. Welsh, University of North Florida and Save Our Lakes; Jacqui Sulek, Audubon Florida

· Local government: Keystone Heights Mayor Mary Lou Hildreth; Dixie County Commissioner Gene Higginbotham

The St. Johns District received 18 applications, and the Suwannee District received 24.

“We are pleased with the broad interest in the partnership,” says Charlie Houder, Suwannee River District acting executive director. “The committee represents a wide range of expertise that will serve as a valuable asset to assist the districts and DEP in the development of sustainable water supplies.”

“One of DEP’s top priorities is getting Florida’s water right. The joint Regional Water Supply Planning process is an important step toward ensuring an adequate water supply for North Florida,” says Ann B. Shortelle, DEP Water Policy Director. “I want to thank the members of the stakeholder committee for volunteering to bring ideas to the table that can help meet our state’s future water needs and protect our valuable water resources.”

The committee is structured such that a wide range of public interests are included, while keeping the committee small enough to be effective and productive.

“Stakeholder committee representatives will closely coordinate with the constituencies they represent, as well as being responsive to the interested public,” says Hans G. Tanzler III, St. Johns District executive director. “Our goal is that the process be open and inclusive.”

Committee meetings will be open to the public, so stakeholders beyond the committee membership can attend and participate.

Additional information for each member is available on the partnership’s website, northfloridawater.com. The website also provides information about relevant activities of the districts, related initiatives and past and upcoming meetings.

###

5-9-12       Submitted

The reward has reportedly been increased to $175,ooo.

5-9-12

MADISON, FL – The North Florida Community College campus will be closed on Fridays during Summer Term 2012. Current hours are Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Regular Monday through Friday hours will resume beginning Monday, Aug. 20. NFCC information is available online at www.nfcc.edu and you can also connect with the College on facebook at www.facebook.com/nfcc.edu for the latest updates and information.

The NFCC Testing Center will also have special summer hours. From May 14 to June 15, 2012, the Testing Center will be open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Tests are given by appointment only; to schedule an appointment call (850) 973-9451 or email Testing@nfcc.edu. More information is also available at http://www.nfcc.edu/admissions/testing–assessment.

5-9-12

MADISON, FL – Join North Florida Community College’s Green Industries Institute for its Organic Gardening 101 workshop “Pest, Disease and Weed Control” on Saturday, May 19 in Monticello, Fla. The three-hour workshop will begin at 9 a.m. and end at 12 p.m.

“If you have gardened in Florida in the summer, you know that it is basically a war out there and your vegetables are the victims,” said Claire Mitchell, Sustainable Agriculture Programs Manager at Green Industries. “This workshop will go over organic methods for keeping your garden healthy as it heats up.”

Workshop is $25. Participants are asked to pre-register online at http://www.nfcc.edu/green-industries/organic-gardening-101. Green Industries Institute is located at 2729 W Washington St on Highway 90, just three miles west of downtown Monticello. For more information, please email Claire Mitchell at mitchellc@nfcc.edu or visit http://www.nfcc.edu/green-industries.

5-9-12

Women are invited to explore the finest of fishing at the next “Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing!” seminar, hosted May 18-20 at the Pirates Cove Resort and Marine, 4307 Southeast Bayview St. in Stuart.

Held in conjunction with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) through the Sport Fish Restoration Program, “Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing!” is a national organization dedicated to attracting more women to sport fishing and to promoting conservation and responsible angling.

During the three-day, hands-on event, FWC educators will demonstrate ethical angler habits, such as safe hook removal, release techniques, fish venting and more. Local fishing guides will provide instruction on fishing techniques and methods.

Past participants found the event worthwhile.

“Being able to pick, choose and move between skill stations was terrific,” said Mary Hackney of Naples. “I loved the flexibility.”

“I learned more about fishing in two days than from my dad in 20 years,” said Georgia Allen of Bonita Springs.

On the final day of the seminar, women may embark on an optional fishing adventure.

To learn more, visit ladiesletsgofishing.com, call 954-475-9068 or email info@ladiesletsgofishing.com.

5-9-12

Tallahassee – State Representative Leonard Bembry (D-Greenville) is pleased to announce the passage of CS/CS/HB 313, the Landowner/Premises Liability bill he sponsored during the 2012 Legislative Session. It was signed by Governor Scott Friday.

The purpose of HB 313 is to provide more opportunities for the public to enjoy outdoor recreation by extending limited liability protection to landowners who allow the public onto their lands for outdoor recreational purposes.

For the public, the legislation will increase the likelihood there will be more lands available where they can enjoy a number of outdoor activities such as fishing, swimming, hunting and camping to name a few.

For landowners who don’t want to lease land to the government for public use, this bill allows them to make a simplified legal arrangement – a written agreement – with the state to use their land for outdoor recreation and still receive limited liability protection.

The bill also gives landowners the option of receiving limited liability protection if they themselves want to allow access to individuals or smaller groups of people, such as church, veterans or Boy Scout groups, primarily for wildlife viewing, fishing or hunting.

All the landowners have to do to receive limited liability protection is: Give written notice or post notice to those using the land that the landowner has limitation of liability, and allow free access to those who will use the land (no charge, no profit). In either situation, landowners would lose the liability protection if they intentionally injure people or their property on the land.

“I want to thank Senator Charles Dean and Representative W. Gregory “Greg” Steube of Sarasota for co-sponsoring this bill and all those who recognized that HB 313 creates a win-win situation for the public, for landowners and for the state,” stated Representative Bembry.

5-9-12

5-9-12

Madison, Florida: Mrs. Mary Frances (Daniels) Whitehead was welcomed home by her God and Savior Jesus Christ on May 3, 2012. Mrs. Whitehead, better known simply as “Granny” is survived by her husband of 58 years.Wilson R. Whitehead, 4 children and their spouses, 11 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren (with another on the way), 1 brother , 3 sisters and an endless list many whom she loved, fed, clothed and nurtured throughout her life. She leaves behind a legacy that can only be described as unconditional love personified, intuitive wisdom and unending forgiveness. Mr. & Mrs. Whitehead moved to Madison from Naples , Florida 15 years ago.

In Lieu of flowers donations may be given to Big Bend Hospice, 1723 Mahan Center Blvd. , Tallahassee , FL 32308-5428
Beggs Funeral Home, Madison Chapel is in charge of arrangements. (850)-973-2258.

5-9-12

Multi-family YARD SALE on Saturday, May 12th from 8AM to Noon
In Madison off HWY 145 on Alyssum Loop, 5 miles out of town towards Valdosta

Look for the signs!

There will be items of all kinds for sale including: mens, womens and childrens clothes, shoes & accessories, hand bags, household decor & kitchen items, toys, electronics & much more!

5-8-12

My Home

Deep in the South is a far away place
Where the gray Spanish moss in the breeze gently sways
And the mighty live oaks spread their majestic old arms
It’s across many fields and across many farms
Where panthers still scream in the dead of the night
And the screech owl’s screech will give you a fright
And the sound of the wind blows through the tall long-leaf pine
There’s a peacefulness there that no where else you will find
Where the beaten down clay dirt roads run through
The scrub oaks and swamplands and skies so blue
Where gators rest quietly there in the sun
And the dirty red waters of the Suwannee do run
There’s a place where my heart ever yearns to go
And one day this journey will take me back there I know
To an old narrow bridge that is traveled no more
To a town full of history, legend and lore
Where a silver domed courthouse sits high on a hill
In a county where it seems that time has stood still
In a place where my soul wants to desperately roam
Florida, my Florida, Madison County, my home

~Rebekah Basford Williamson

5-8-12

Florida’s workforce partners support state’s service men and women and their families through employment programs and services

Tallahassee – In honor of Military Appreciation Month, the Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) and Workforce Florida, Inc. are highlighting the Hiring Florida’s Heroes campaign and the specialized employment services offered throughout the state to support Florida’s veterans and the family members of active duty and reserve service men and women. Since the start of 2012 and the kick-off of the Hiring Florida’s Heroes campaign, Florida’s workforce partners have served 27,000 veterans statewide and placed 10,000 in jobs.

“Knowing the sacrifices made by our soldiers and their families, DEO is proud to be able to show our appreciation for their service and provide assistance through specialized employment programs that focus on their needs and skills,” said DEO Executive Director Hunting F. Deutsch. “There are nearly 200 DEO employees located throughout the state dedicated solely to assisting veterans and their families find employment by working with local employers, providing one-on-one support and offering training.”

Florida is home to nearly 100,000 active duty and reserve military personnel, 11,000 National Guard soldiers and airmen, 230,000 military family members and more than 1.6 million veterans. Priority service, hands-on case management, specialized employment assistance and training resources are provided to all veterans and military personnel through more than a dozen different programs facilitated by the state’s 24 Regional Workforce Boards and nearly 100 One-Stop Career Centers. In addition, seven regions with large military populations offer specialized employment services to military family members.

“Florida’s veterans personify courage, strength, innovation and responsibility, as do the military spouses who maintain the homefront while their loved ones are away defending our country and freedoms,” said Workforce Florida President/CEO Chris Hart IV. “Workforce Florida is honored to support their unique employment needs, which not only advances our mission to improve the state’s business climate by helping Floridians enter, remain and advance in the workforce but also connects Florida’s employers with an exemplary talent pool of qualified, dedicated workers.”

With funding from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Veterans Employment and Training Service, DEO administers the Jobs for Veterans State Grant in conjunction with various workforce development programs to promote and maximize the employment of Florida’s veteran population, especially those with barriers to employment. All 174 of DEO’s Veterans Employment Program staff are veterans themselves, allowing them to directly relate to those they are serving. Just over half of these staff focus specifically on veterans with barriers to employment, such as disabled veterans. More than 5,500 disabled veterans have been served so far in 2012, with 1,800 securing jobs.

“Our service members leave the military with proven leadership and technical skills, a strong sense of teamwork and integrity, and the ability to work under pressure,” said Mike Prendergast, executive director of the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs. “These are the very qualities employers seek. Hiring our state’s veterans is an employer’s best bet.”

Florida’s workforce partners, local communities and military facilities work together year-round to host career fairs and hiring events specifically for veterans and their families. This year there have been at least 15 hiring events and career fairs and there are dozens more in the coming months. Three of these upcoming career fairs are part of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Hiring Our Heroes program and will bring together local, state, regional and national partners and employers.

Services and programs include:
Employ Florida Vets Portal

Part of the Employ Florida Marketplace website, the Employ Florida Vets Portal is tailored specifically to the needs and interests of veterans. A veteran registers and sets up a profile with his or her skills and abilities, résumé and work history that is then shared with One-Stop Career Center staff and employers. Veteran job seekers can also receive automatic notifications of job announcements matching their profile. In addition, the portal has a specialized feature to translate Military Specialty Codes (represents military employment classification) into equivalent civilian job titles.

VA Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Program

The VA Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Program (VR&E) is focused on training and employment services to assist disabled veterans who are being trained or retrained and rehabilitated for new careers by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. DEO Veterans program staff provides workforce services to disabled veterans participating in the VR&E Program such as on-the-job training development, non-paid work experience, selective job placement, case management, counseling, follow-up services, provision of job-seeking skills training, job analysis, labor market information and more.

Military Family Employment Advocacy Program

The Military Family Employment Advocacy Program offers employment assistance services, including interviewing, assessment, counseling, job search and placement assistance, labor market information, résumé assistance and more. Eight full-time staff, known as Military Family Employment Advocates, are co-located within seven One-Stop Career Centers in areas of the state with large military populations to provide these services to spouses and dependents of active-duty military personnel, Florida National Guard members and military reservists.

Transition Assistance Program

Operational at 11 military sites, the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) provides important employability skills training to military members and their spouses as they transition from military to civilian life. Participation in TAP helps provide a path to a quality career. DEO’s Veterans program staff facilitates approximately 25 TAP classes throughout Florida on a monthly basis.

Incarcerated Veterans Transition Program

The Incarcerated Veterans Transition Program provides assistance to incarcerated veterans who will be transitioning back into the workforce with funding from the U.S. Department of Labor. Program services vary and are offered by DEO Veterans program staff located in One-Stop Centers throughout the state.

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About DEO

The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity combines the state’s economic, workforce and community development efforts. This new approach helps expedite economic development projects to fuel job creation in competitive communities. For more information, including valuable resources for employers and job seekers, please visit www.floridajobs.org.

5-8-12

The Madison Lions Club has taken the lead in the God and Country 4th of July Celebration and we need you, the community to help us. The Lions are looking to honor all our veterans with a special emphasis on the men and women who served in the war to end all wars. What we need are the stories and photos of those brave men and women so we can capture them into our program of festivities this year. There are several ways you can do this first, you can bring the story to the Lions Club meeting every Tuesday at 12:00, second you can contact Oliver Bradley, VA representative at the Court House Annex and you can send them to the Lions e-mail address. Any of these will deliver the important history of you or your family, which needs to be recorded, for all of Madison to read and understand the importance of our Veterans. The Lions can be contacted online at madisongodandcountry@yahoo.com

5-7-12   

5-7-12

Madison County has a new county forester, Justin Kania, a native of Naperville, IL. He is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin at Stevens Point. Justin received a Bachelor of Science in forestry management with a minor in soil science.

Justin has several years of experience in the field of natural resources. His work has mainly focused on ecological restoration and forestry management. His past employers include a County Forest Preserve District, an ecological restoration company, and the U.S. Forest Service.

If you need any forestry related assistance, Justin can be reached at: (850) 973-5115 or by e-mail at: Justin.Kania@freshfromflorida.com.

5-7-12

The tournament was held Saturday and Sunday May 5 & 6 at the Madison Country Club

Championship Flight:

1st place: Tom Sykes, 147

2nd place: Mac McInnis, 148

3rd place:Bailey Browning, 150

First Flight:

1st place: Van Collins, 164

2nd place: Gary Henderson, 165

3rd place: Brent Henderson, 166

Second Flight:

1st place: Clint Rogers, 164

2nd place: Matt Allen, 166

3rd place: Buddy Beasley, 166

Third Flight:

1st place: John Sirmans, 178

2nd place: Steve Dennis, 183

3rd place: George Schiffbauer, 187

Senior Flight – Sponsored by Cialis:

1st place gross: John Ed Fraleigh

2nd place gross: Bump Faircloth

1st place net: Larue Tippette

2nd place net: Jr. Barrs

5-7-12

MADISON, FL – North Florida Community College’s 2011 Registered Nursing graduates made history in 2012 by becoming NFCC’s first RN class to achieve, on their first attempt, a 100% pass rate on the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Although NFCC graduates have consistently posted NCLEX-RN pass rates consistent with or above the National average since the program’s inception five years ago, this is the first time that an entire cohort has achieved a 100% pass rate on their first try. The exam is a required step in a graduate’s nursing career. Achievement of a passing score on the exam and licensure by the Florida State Board of Nursing enables graduates to seek employment as a Registered Nurse in the state of Florida.

“The faculty are extremely proud of each of our graduates, we know they will make an impact on the healthcare community,” said Julie Townsend, NFCC Nursing and Allied Health Director.

NFCC Nursing and Allied Health programs prepare students for a variety of jobs in the healthcare system. NFCC students have access to the latest technology and training equipment and receive hands-on training at area hospitals and healthcare facilities. For more information on the NFCC Registered Nursing Program, contact Julie Townsend at (850) 973-9428 or townsendj@nfcc.edu or visit http://www.nfcc.edu/programs-of-study/allied-health-programs.

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NFCC’s 2011 Registered Nursing graduates are:

First Row (l-r): Amber Cooper (Pinetta, Fla.), Tara Richardson (Pinetta, Fla.), Twyla Sears (Live Oak, Fla.), Tristan Sorensen (Monticello, Fla.), Allyce Rutherford (Madison, Fla.) and Ashley Collis (Lee, Fla.)

Second Row (l-r): Shana Douglas (Madison, Fla.), Sara Myslikowski (Tallahassee, Fla.), Ana Pretto (Madison, Fla.),

Kelly Melland (Live Oak, Fla.)

Third Row (l-r): Ashley Brevard (Lake City, Fla.), Gwen Cauley (Lamont, Fla.), Teri Roessler (Madison, Fla.), Logan Avery (Perry, Fla.) and Jodi Cooper (Lee, Fla.).

Fourth Row (l-r): Heather Olson (Madison, Fla.), Alison Flynt (Monticello, Fla.), Leslie Skeen (Lake City, Fla.)

Top Row (l-r): Ashley Haynes (Pinetta, Fla.), Elizabeth Lineberger (Valdosta, GA) and Heath Bowen (Lake Park, GA)

5-7-12

Greenville: Zelma Bishop Thigpen, age 81, died May 6, 2012 at her home.

Graveside funeral services will be 10:00 AM Tuesday, May 8, 2012 at Evergreen Cemetery, Greenville, FL.

Donations may be made to Big Bend Hospice, 1723 Mahan Center Blvd., Tallahassee, FL 32308, or to Gideons International, Capital City North Camp, PO Box 1245, Tallahassee, Florida

She was a lifelong resident of Greenville and graduated from Greenville High School. After graduation from Greenville High School she began working as a teller at the Florida National Bank at Madison. Later she transferred to the Bank of Greenville and was a vice-president at the time of her retirement in 1991. She was an active member of First Baptist Church in Greenville and supported the Gideons International.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Bert Thigpen and her parents, Walt and O’Dessa Bishop and brother, John Edwin “Bo” Bishop.

She is survived by two daughters, Tempy Johnson (Rudy) and Lydia Charlene “Sheen” Thigpen, two granddaughters, Brittany and Jessie Johnson all of Tallahassee. A sister, Lynnette Ray of Tallahassee, A sister-in-law, Ruth Bishop of Greenville, and many nieces, nephews, as well as other relatives and friends.

Beggs Funeral Home Madison Chapel is in charge of arrangements 850-973-2258.

5-7-12

The Florida Forest Service, formerly known as the Florida Division of Forestry, announced on May 7th that it will be accepting applications for the Southern Pine Beetle Prevention Cost-Share Program. The sign-up period this year will be from May 7th to June 11th. This early signup period offers more time for landowners to plan their plantings. This is not a loan which needs to be paid back to the government. This is money used to help reduce the burden of a land management practices on your qualified piece of forest land.

Southern pine beetle is a native, periodically destructive, insect pest of pines in the southeastern U.S. They are typically limited to pines that are dying or weakened due to environmental stress, competition, age, or other factors, but outbreaks can occur in which large numbers of apparently healthy trees are killed. To help prevent southern pine beetle infestations and outbreaks, forest landowners should thin overstocked stands, reduce understory competition, plant less susceptible tree species on appropriate sites, and harvest diseased or stagnant stands of trees. The Southern Pine Beetle Prevention Cost-Share Program offers cost-share reimbursements and incentive payments to assist the private landowner with conducting approved management practices on a minimum of 10 acres to achieve a pine stand more resistant to southern pine beetle.

This program does not make reimbursements for practices performed before applications have been approved. Applications will not be accepted after June 11th. For specific details and applications for the program or for a disease/insect diagnosis of your trees contact the Madison County Forester at: (850) 973-5115 or Justin.Kania@freshfromflorida.com.

5-7-12

After 48 years, I found my family – Editorial by John Ovenden

I always knew I was adopted. That was never a secret. The administrator of the Madison hospital at that time, Joe Davis, told the story that my adoptive parents shared with me:

He said that my father was hit by a train at a crossing and my mother had 4 other children and just couldn’t afford to take care of me alone. She walked from the nearest town, in labor, to the hospital and gave birth to me. She wanted me to go to a loving home so the administrator chose my adoptive parents. He knew them from when they were neighbors in Atlanta.

Neat story but extremely inaccurate.

The only information I could get from the hospital records department in Madison was that I was a boy and my last name was Davis.

In the mid to late 2000s, I visited Joe Davis three times in Bradenton, Florida. Let’s face it, with what little information I had accumulated, all signs pointed to him being my biological father.

I asked him all the obvious questions. He told me that he remembered my mother to possibly be a college student from North Carolina who was living here and became pregnant. He couldn’t seem to remember her name or who the father was though. After he denied being my father, he told me that the last name “Davis” was on my records because he took me to a doctor in Tallahassee and they needed a last name for my records.

This was a total lie other than the trip to Tally. My suspicions were really high at this point that he was my father and covering for cheating on his wife. I got tired of wasting the gas and time to visit him and getting nowhere. He passed away a while back. His obituary is on my website.

I figured he was my only hope of finding out the truth so I gave up trying after his death.

It wasn’t until early this year when it all started up again. An attorney told me that I could get my hospital records and should have the right to do so. Long story short, it happened. I was handed my birth records. It showed my mother’s name, my aunt’s name and my father’s last name. It also showed the state my mother was from. It was Tennessee.

I can’t tell explain the way I felt when I read the information. I was in a daze. I finally knew where I came from, to a point. With only the last name Davis, I still suspected Joe Davis as being my father.

Something bizarre happened later that day. I was on my way to Relay for Life when I spoke with someone who’s mother was working at the hospital around the time of my birth. They told me that “Word was, at the time, Joe Davis was having an affair with an underage female and that she was sneaked into the hospital through the back door to give birth to me”. Needless to say, I was not happy to hear that he was my father after all that time of him denying it.

Regardless, I wanted to find my mother if she was still alive. Over the next few days, friends had compiled data from searching the internet and found a picture of my biological mother and other family members. The internet has everything; you just need to know where to look!

I was thumbing through everything and had sent a general email to a woman that might be related to my family when it suddenly hit me…Google search Tennessee white pages and search for my mother’s name. I did it. There was only one listing and it included a phone number. After 2 or maybe 20 minutes of shaking, I called the number.

The person that answered was, in fact, my mother. I’m not one for beating around the bush so I just told her I was holding my hospital records and they state that she is my mother. I heard her shuffling the phone around while saying, “Okay,okay”. I thought she was about to hang up. I had accepted this as a possibility. I was semi-ready for it.

She was happy I found her! She had been waiting for years for this day. She didn’t even know whether she gave birth to a boy or a girl. The hospital never let her see me nor would they give her any information. Her oldest daughter, my half-sister, had searched for my in the late 1990s but without any information other than location and date, it was futile.

I have spoken with my mother and oldest half-sister numerous times. They were the only two in the family that knew I existed. Let me just clarify something; I’m only using the term “half-sister” for the details of this story. She is my sister. One night around midnight, my mother called me to tell me I have a full-blooded sister. It seems it was eating her up inside and she was even afraid that it would change my heart and I wouldn’t want to meet the family. It was a touching phone call. I was so happy to hear that I have a sister. She is my only living, full-blooded relative.

I have a mother and many sisters. My brother and a sister both lost their lives in auto accidents. My father lives in Tennessee also but doesn’t know I exist. I may keep it that way.

My hotel room is rented, my rental car is reserved, and I’m going to meet my family this coming weekend. My mother decided that she would tell the rest of the family after our first visit. Well, that was her plan anyway. The day after she told me about having a sister, she told the whole family. They’re all anxious to meet me! My full-blooded sister was happy to find out that she has a brother.

After 9.5 years of living in Madison, I find out that I am not related to anyone here. My aunt, who is now deceased, moved to Madison from Tennessee before I was born, after meeting a man from here. My mother moved here with full intentions of living here and raising me. An attorney helped her decide that giving me up for adoption was the best thing to do in her situation. This decision was made in the eighth month of her pregnancy. I can only imagine how hard that decision was.

Not being related to anyone here has also caused some unexpected emotions but that’s another editorial for a later date. For now, I am in a daze and I find it hard to focus on anything other than meeting my family this weekend. I want to thank the MANY people that helped over the years in making this happen. I had never given up hope but had given up on trying for a while.

To anyone searching for his or her family I say, don’t give up. My adoption was a sealed adoption and I cracked it open. Mine seemed hopeless for so long but here I am. I’m about to attend my first family reunion. It is a feeling I can’t find words for. I have a lump in my throat all day and all night. The fact that they are happy I made contact and welcomed me to the family is a childhood dream come true.

To my Mom that raised me and will always be my Mom: I loved you and always will love you.

She passed away a few years ago and I can honestly say that we had no unfinished business. We were very close and she always wanted me to find out the truth of where I came from.

John Ovenden – Madison Voice

5-5-12

Saturday May 12 the Madison County Cowboys football program will be hosting six other teams in the North Florida regional referee training at Boot Hill. Scrimmage partcipants will be Madison County, Taylor County, East Gadsden, Lafayette County, Tallahassee Godby, Fort White and Fernandina Beach. Admission will be $3.00 and there will be a concession stand.

The Cowboys spring game will be in Jefferson County on Saturday May 26 at 6:30 p.m.

5-4-12

LIVE OAK, FL, May 4, 2012 – The Suwannee River Water Management District (District) is offering for lease its 836-acre Mud Swamp Tract in Alachua and Bradford counties. The lessee will have exclusive recreational use of the property for hunting and fishing purposes.

“This pilot project affords us the opportunity to expand hunting and fishing opportunities to the public while also furthering the District’s efforts to maintain water resources and manage natural resources and public use facilities on District lands,” said Bob Heeke, District senior land resources manager.

The property would be open to the leaseholder and the leaseholder’s guests to allow up to 15 hunters at a time to enjoy the property.

Individuals interested in the property may download the lease form and bid instructions at http://www.mysuwanneeriver.com/DocumentCenter/Home/View/6647.

The District must receive all completed leases by May 29 at noon for a respondent to be considered. Individuals may hand deliver or mail the forms to Suwannee River Water Management District, Attn: Gwen Lord, 9225 CR 49, Live Oak, Fla. 32060. For more information call 386-362-1001 or 800-226-1066 (FL only).

5-4-12

This Afternoon: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 89. South wind around 10 mph.

Tonight: A 10 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8pm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 65. South southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Saturday: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 92. Calm wind becoming west southwest between 5 and 10 mph.

Saturday Night: A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8pm, then a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 66. South southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

Sunday: A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 8am. Partly sunny, with a high near 92. Calm wind becoming west between 5 and 10 mph.

Sunday Night: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 67.

Monday: A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 88.

Monday Night: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 65.

Tuesday: A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 89.

Tuesday Night: A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 66.

Wednesday: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 90.

Wednesday Night: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 64.

Thursday: Sunny, with a high near 88.

Leigh Webb, Program Coordinator
Madison County Emergency Management

5-4-12