Fishing can sometimes be famine, but on the days when it is feast, it’s important to know your bag limit, aka the number of fish you can keep and take home for dinner. These limits are a useful tool in helping protect many of our recreationally important species. There are several types of bag limits and, sometimes more than one type applies. Some even vary by region (spotted seatrout, red drum, weakfish and bay scallops).

“Bag limit” is defined as the number of a particular species that an individual angler can harvest and possess in a given day. For example, the recreational bag limit for red drum in the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) northeast and northwest management zones is two fish per person, per day. This means that a licensed (or exempt) angler can harvest two red drum in a given day. This does not mean that you have to stop fishing after you have put two fish in the box. You can enjoy catch-and-release fishing for the rest of the day. Just make sure that you are using proper catch-and-release techniques to help the released fish survive.

Another common term is “vessel limit,” which is the maximum number of a particular species that can be possessed on a vessel at any given time. Vessel limits are always used in addition to individual bag limits and do not exempt any single angler from the individual limits. As an example, the rules for red drum provide a statewide vessel limit of eight fish that is used in conjunction with the individual bag limits of two fish in the northern regions and one fish in the south region. This means that no more than eight red drum can be possessed on a vessel even if you have five or more licensed anglers on board in the north regions or nine or more anglers on board in the south region.

Let’s say you are fishing in one of the two northern regions and your daily individual bag limit is two fish. If there are two anglers on the boat, there can be no more than four fish on board; three anglers can have a total of six fish; but four or more anglers can have no more than eight fish altogether.

That’s pretty straightforward if you understand that both the individual bag limit and the vessel limit apply simultaneously.

One question that always comes up is, “Can one angler share his or her fish to help fill a bag limit for another angler?” The answer is no. Bag limits are individual even when an overlapping vessel limit applies. This keeps folks from taking, for example, their infant nephew fishing just so they can keep two more fish. But, you may ask, if an FWC law enforcement officer checks my cooler, how will he or she know who caught how many fish? If an officer’s observations, inspection or investigation reveals you have caught more than your individual daily bag limit, you could be subject to fines.

A third type of bag limit that you will see in FWC rules is an aggregate bag limit. Like your basic bag limit, this type applies to individual anglers but instead of applying to only one species, it applies to several closely related species. Snappers and groupers are currently managed with aggregate limits in Florida waters.

Let’s use snapper as our example. Currently, there is a 10-snapper aggregate bag limit in Florida waters. This means that you can harvest up to 10 snapper regardless of what individual species they are, as long as they are included in the aggregate. Keep in mind, this aggregate limit applies to most, but not all, species of snapper.

Read the regulations carefully. Vermilion snapper, for example, is not included in the 10-snapper aggregate bag limit. It has its own bag limit of 10 fish per angler, per day in the Gulf and five per angler, per day in the Atlantic. This means that if you are fishing in state waters of the Gulf, you can keep an individual bag limit of vermilion snapper plus your aggregate limit of 10 other snappers in any combination of species that are included in the aggregate.

The other nuance that should be pointed out is that some snappers that are included within the aggregate limit also have individual bag limits. For example, red snapper has a two-fish bag limit and gray snapper has a five-fish bag limit. Both species are counted as part of the 10-snapper aggregate. So, if anglers caught their two red snapper and their five gray snapper, they could still bring home three more snapper included in the aggregate, as long as the three were not additional gray or red snappers.

There are two more types of bag limits you should know about: the spiny lobster onshore possession limit and the red drum transportation limit.

The spiny lobster possession limit applies during the two-day sport season in late June and limits an individual angler to no more than a daily bag limit of lobster on the first day of the sport season and no more than two daily bag limits onshore on the second day of the sport season. This limit clarifies that bag limits are “daily” and allows folks who are taking advantage of both days of the sport season to take their two-day catch home.

For red drum, no more than six fish per person can be transported by vehicle on land. If I’m fishing with three or more of my buddies and we catch our vessel limit of eight red drum, I can take as many as six of those in my truck back to my house if I’m traveling in the truck by myself. If one of my buddies is traveling with me to my house, we can take all eight fish. (That is, if my buddies decide I should have the fish. But because I’m such a great cook, I’m sure they would.) This limit helps deter attempts to sell red drum, which can only be harvested for recreational purposes.

We hope this clarifies the various types of limits used in Florida’s saltwater fishing regulations. If you have additional questions, please give us a call anytime.

Gone Coastal is one of many ways that the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) Division of Marine Fisheries Management is helping recreational anglers understand complex saltwater regulations and learn more about saltwater fishing opportunities and issues in Florida. We are also available to answer questions by phone or email anytime, and we would love the opportunity to share information through in-person presentations with recreational or commercial fishing organizations. To contact the FWC’s Regulatory Outreach subsection call 850-487-0554 or email Alan.Peirce@MyFWC.com.

James A. Mathis, 60, passed away on Wednesday, May 15, 2013 in Madison, FL. A painter and Tallahassee native, he will be memorialized via cremation. Memorial services will be scheduled at a later date. TILLMAN OF TALLAHASSEE 850-942-1950 is serving the family.

For Sale: Three 12″ Memphis subwoofers and a box for two 12″s.

$300.00 for all

Text or call 229-834-4913

Harold Bennon Cartwright is a white male age 74 with Grey Hair and Brown Eyes

Address: 155 SW Old St. Augustine Road (Deerwood Inn) Room 23

Madison, Florida 32340

Charges: Sex Offense Federal Year: 1997

For question about this offender or any offender, please contact the Madison Co. Sheriff’s Office at (850) 973-4001 ext. 241

Farmers Cooperative has been serving farmers, ranchers, and gardeners in North Florida with everything from fertilizers, feeds, and farm supplies to residential LP gas since 1946. Each day our team strives to follow our motto of “One Team, One Goal, Excellent Customer Service”. The Farmers Cooperative staff is very eager to help make your experience at our store a pleasant one. In 2009 we remodeled our building to make our customers visit more enjoyable.

May is one of our favorite months because that is when we have our 3rd Grade Cabbage Program Official Weigh In. In February we went to the local elementary schools and passed out cabbages to all third graders. These cabbages are designed to grow upwards of 40 pounds. These students have been growing and caring for their cabbages. On May 18th we will weigh all the cabbages to see who has the biggest from each class. Bonnie Plants Co. will place each class winner in a drawing for a $1000 scholarship.

Come by Farmers Cooperative today and take advantage of some great specials going on. Just in time for spring we have all our LP Gas Grills on sale as well as many other things. Our feed specials are great this time of year as well. Starting Memorial Day Weekend we will offer 20lb cylinder refills every Saturday morning for a special price of $12.99. This special price is good on every Saturday from Memorial Day until Labor Day. So Come by and check us out, we promise you won’t be sorry you did.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – May 21, 2013 – As part of its continued commitment to honor military veterans and their families, CSX Corporation (NYSE: CSX) launched the “Drop and Give Them 10″ campaign, a national fundraiser for Wounded Warrior Project� (WWP).

The “Drop and Give Them 10″ campaign runs through May 29.

“At CSX, we are grateful for the courageous service of our nation’s military veterans to protect our hard-won freedoms,” said Michael J. Ward, chairman, president and CEO. “To honor their service and sacrifice, we’re inviting people across the nation to help us ‘push up’ support for Wounded Warrior Project – an amazing organization that helps critically injured service men and women return to productive civilian lives.”

Here’s how it works: Now through May 29, when you do 10 pushups and log them on http://www.dropandgivethem10.com/�, CSX will donate $1 to Wounded Warrior Project�. If you post a picture or your experience, CSX will donate an additional $1 up to $50,000 total. Just don’t forget to use the #GiveThem10 hashtag when sharing tweets or Instagram images.

CSX has a long-standing commitment to hiring America’s veterans and reservists. Nearly one in five CSX employees has served in the military, and many continue to hold Reserve or National Guard status. In April 2013, CSX was ranked first on the list of Top 10 Companies for Veterans by DiversityInc.

About Wounded Warrior Project� (WWP)
Wounded Warrior Project� (WWP) began when several veterans and friends, moved by stories of the first wounded service members returning home from Afghanistan and Iraq, took action to help others in need. What started as a desire to provide comfort items to wounded service members at Walter Reed Army Medical Center has grown into a holistic rehabilitative effort to assist warriors with visible and invisible wounds as they recover and transition back to civilian life. Tens of thousands of injured servicemen and women, family members, and caregivers receive support each year through WWP programs. Learn more by visiting woundedwarriorproject.org.

Tim Bennett

City Manager Notes

Madison, FL City Commission Special Meeting of 5/21/13

1. Meeting called to order.

2. Agenda adopted.

3. The City Commission authorized issuing a quit claim deed to convey up to 6,000 square feet at 35 cents a square foot to Little Pines Pediatrics pending survey results and final review by the city attorney, city manager and city community development director. The motion also included reservation of utility easements on the entire property that is being conveyed by the quit claim deed.

4. Meeting adjourned.

Tallahassee, Tuesday, May 21, 2013 — The American Red Cross is working around the clock to help people in Oklahoma after Monday’s devastating tornadoes with shelters, food, water and supplies, and more workers, supplies and equipment are moving into the area today.

“Our thoughts and sympathy are with all those impacted by these horrific tornadoes,” said Dan Sambron, CEO, Capital Area Chapter Red Cross. “Specialized Red Cross disaster teams are helping now and will be helping for weeks to come as people in Oklahoma recover from these storms.”

The Red Cross deployed almost 30 emergency response vehicles to distribute food and relief supplies and more are on alert. Two Southern Baptist Convention kitchens and kitchen support trailers will join the relief effort with the ability to serve tens of thousands of meals a day.

Emergency aid stations will open where people can get food and snacks, mental health and health services and information about what help is available. The Red Cross is supporting first responders and working with local and state officials to make sure people get the help they need. Meanwhile, the Red Cross continues to provide shelter in Shawnee and other parts of the Oklahoma City area following storms over the weekend.

SAFE AND WELL The Red Cross has several ways people can let loved ones know they are safe. They can register on the Red Cross Safe and Well website by visiting www.redcross.org and clicking on the “List Yourself or Search Registrants” link under “How to Get Help”. Those who can’t access a computer can call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) and a Red Cross operator can help them register. Disaster victims can also update their Facebook and Twitter status through the Safe and Well website or visit www.redcross.org/safeandwell on their smart phone and click on the “List Yourself as Safe and Well” or “Search for friends and family” link.

DOWNLOAD TORNADO APP. If someone has the Red Cross tornado app on their mobile device, they can use the “I’m Safe” button to let loved ones know they are okay. The app can be found in the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store for Android by searching for American Red Cross. It includes a high-pitched siren and tornado warning alert that signals when a NOAA tornado warning has been issued, as well as also an all-clear alert that lets users know when a tornado warning has expired or has been cancelled. Content is preloaded so users have access to critical information even without mobile connectivity, including locations of open Red Cross shelters and the one-touch “I’m Safe” messaging to let loved ones know they are okay through social media outlets. More than a million alerts were sent from the Red Cross tornado app with 340 separate tornado warning/watch notices on Sunday and Monday as tornadoes hit in Oklahoma and other states.

HOW TO HELP Those who would like to help people affected by disasters like tornadoes, floods and other crises can make a donation to American Red Cross Disaster Relief. People can donate by visiting www.redcross.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or texting the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation. These donations help provide food, shelter and emotional support to those affected by disasters.

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RED CROSS PAGE TWO OF TWO

BLOOD SUPPLIES The Red Cross stands ready to help meet the blood needs of patients in and around Oklahoma City if needed, and there is currently enough blood on the shelves to meet patient demands. The Red Cross is a secondary supplier of blood products to hospitals in the affected area in Oklahoma. People with type O negative blood are encouraged to give blood when they are able. All eligible blood donors can schedule an appointment to give in the days and weeks ahead by calling 1-800-RED CROSS or visiting www.redcrossblood.org to help ensure blood is available when people need it.

CORPORATIONS HELP The Red Cross is able to respond quickly when emergencies like this happen with the help of corporations who are members of the organization’s Annual Disaster Giving (ADGP) and Disaster Responder programs. Program members pledge donations on an ongoing basis to allow the Red Cross to pre-position supplies and be ready to take immediate action when disasters occur.

Current ADGP members are:

3M; Altria Group; Aon; AT&T; Bank of America; BNY Mellon; Briggs & Stratton Corporation; Caterpillar Inc.; CHS Foundation; Cisco Foundation; Citi Foundation; The Clorox Company; Community Safety Foundation funded by AAA Northern California, Nevada and Utah Insurance Exchange; ConAgra Foods Foundation; Costco Wholesale Corporation; Darden Restaurants, Inc.; Dell Inc.; Discover; Disney; Dr Pepper Snapple Group; Edison International; FedEx Corporation; GE Foundation; Hewlett-Packard Company Foundation; The Home Depot Foundation; Humble Bundle; jcpenney; John Deere Foundation; Johnson Controls; Kimberly-Clark Corporation; Kraft Foods Group; Lowe’s Companies, Inc.; Medtronic; Meijer; Merck Co. Foundation; Mondelēz International; National Grid; Nationwide Insurance Foundation; Northrop Grumman; Optum; PepsiCo and the PepsiCo Foundation; Southwest Airlines; Sprint; State Farm; State Street; Target; Texas Instruments; The TJX Companies, Inc.; UnitedHealthcare; University of Phoenix; UPS; US Airways; Walmart; WellPoint Foundation; Wells Fargo.

Disaster Responder members include:

American Express; AstraZeneca; AXA Foundation; Delta Air Lines; Farmers Insurance; Ford Motor Company; General Motors Foundation; H&R Block; Ingersoll Rand; Morgan Stanley; New Balance Foundation; Northwestern Mutual and the Northwestern Mutual Foundation; PuroClean; Ryder Charitable Foundation; Starbucks Coffee Company and Starbucks Foundation; Sunoco; Tyson Foods, Inc.; U.S. Bank; Western Union Foundation.

About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

On Tuesday, May 21, 2013 at 12:40 PM Madison Fire/Rescue was dispatched to a reported traffic crash on State Road 6 at Macedonia Church Road involving a semi and a car. Initial request was for extrication of a trapped but uninjured occupant of one of the vehicles. Upon arrival all persons were out of their vehicles and were being checked by Madison County Emergency Medical Services. No transport was required. Madison County Sheriff’s deputies handled traffic control and the Florida Highway Patrol completed the crash report.

News Release

Small Doses of Education to Make Big Difference for Parents with Sick Children North Florida Child Development to Participate in UCLA Healthcare Institute

The staff of North Florida Child Development is excited to announce that they have been picked to participate in this year’s National Center on Health UCLA Healthcare Training Institute. With nine (9) regional centers and serving over 360 area families, North Florida Child Development is one of only 50 Early Head Start and Head Start programs, nationwide, and the only one in Florida, selected to receive the training.

The mission of UCLA Healthcare Training Institute is to educate parents in America to make better healthcare decisions for their children. North Florida Child Development applied for the training, which is 100% grant funded, and plans to conduct the parent training sessions in September of this year. Over 100 area families will participate in the initial two-day workshop receiving textbook and other valuable healthcare tools such as
digital thermometers, free of charge.

“This training is designed to provide healthcare knowledge and enable parents to make better healthcare decisions for their children,” said Sharon Gaskin, Executive Director, North Florida Child Development. The program is based on the “What to Do When Your Child Gets Sick” guidebook assembled by the UCLA group. In addition to the easy-toread book, training sessions for parents will also include hands-on education on how to correctly measure medication and the correct hand-washing technique, among other things.

Flipping through the book, Gaskin said each chapter has the same four sections: What is it, what do I see, what can I do at home and when to call the doctor. “It’s natural for parents to be worried when their child gets sick but it (the book) really takes the panic out,” said Gaskin.

A UCLA study showed that from 2002 to 2006 the program reduced participants’ emergency room visits by 58%, doctor’s visits by 42% and missed school days by 29%. During the last decade, UCLA health experts have helped Head Start coordinators train over 45,000 families in 39 states to use basic tools including reference books, digitalthermometers and liquid medical dispensers to treat their children and avoid unnecessary visits to doctor’s offices and emergency rooms.

For more information contact Sebrina McGill, North Florida Child Development, at 850-639-5080.

CITY HALL IS CLOSED MAY 27; GARBAGE PICK-UP IS MAY 28

Madison City Hall will be closed on Monday, May 27 for Memorial Day. City Sanitation crews will pick up garbage on all regular routes in the city on Tuesday, May 28.

Tim Bennett, City Manager

City of Madison

MADISON, FL (May 20, 2013) – Juan Williams, the City of Madison’s Fire Inspector for the past three years, has been promoted to the position of City Inspector and will handle the city’s fire safety, risk management, and code enforcement programs, City Manager Tim Bennett announced today.

“He will be our eyes and ears internally within the city staff and externally within the community to ensure we’re doing what we need to do to keep our employees and citizens safe,” Bennett said. “Juan has the kind of firm, common-sense approach we’re looking for to successfully work with employees and citizens to promote safety and to enforce codes.”

He will report directly to Bennett.

Williams already had been handling fire safety inspections and prevention for the city and for Madison County. He will continue in both roles. He also had been conducting the city’s risk management program to promote worker safety. That will continue as well.

During the past month, he has been the city’s point man in enforcing city codes and has been active in resolving code violations concerning property nuisances, signs and renewal of occupational licenses.

“I felt it would be beneficial to consolidate all his duties under one title – Inspector — and to position him in the city’s organizational chart so that he has a direct line to the city manager,” Bennett said. “I believe this will lead to more effective safety programs and code enforcement.”

Williams will continue to work closely with Charles Hitchcock, the city’s Building Official and Community Development Director. They form a team that also includes Code Enforcement Administrator Mary Graham, Police Chief Gary Calhoun and Fire Chief Bruce Jordan to address safety and code issues. Between the five of them, they bring 115 years of experience to their jobs.

“We have an excellent team in place,” Bennett said. “Our goal is to educate citizens about the city’s ordinances, apply common sense to enforcement, and hold ourselves accountable as to how effective we work with citizens to enforce the ordinances.”

Williams has certifications in Firefighter II and Fire Inspector II, which includes Fire and Life Safety; he is certified in Installation and Maintenance of Fire Suppression Systems by the National Institute for Certification in Emergency Technologies (NICET); he is nearing completion for certification in Fire Investigation; and he is pursuing certification as a building inspector. He also is in an inactive status as a certified plumber.

He is a single parent of two children. His son Juan Jr., is a rising senior and football captain at Lawton Chiles High School in Tallahassee, and his daughter Justyn is a rising junior, also at Lawton Chiles High School. The family resides in Tallahassee.

Tim Bennett, City Manager

City of Madison

Christopher Shane Smith

White Male 38 years old

Brown Hair Blue Eyes

Temp Address: 1410 N State Rd. 53

Madison, Florida

Charge: Lewd Lascivious Acts on a Child Age 16, year: 1999

All Sexual Predator’s require notification with one mile of registered address by the Sheriff’s Office.

For question about this Sexual Predator or any Sex Offender, please contact the Madison Co. Sheriff’s Office at (850)973-4001 ext. 241

New Sex Offender

Joshua Lynn Rather White Male age 28

Blond Hair Blue Eyes

Address: 2744 NE Oak Hill Road, Pinetta,Fl.

Charges: Sex Offense, Other State on a 14 year old female in 2003

For questions on this sex offender or any offender, please contact the Madison Co. Sheriff’s Office at (850)973-4001 ext.241

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – With just one click, Florida roadways will be safer for travelers during the Memorial Day holiday. Wearing a seatbelt is the most effective way to help prevent injuries in the event of a traffic crash. Unfortunately, many motorists do not use this important safety feature. Beginning today, Florida Highway Patrol Troopers will be taking part in the 2013 National Click It or Ticket seat belt enforcement campaign. Motorists who are not buckled up run the risk of being ticketed. This includes any passengers who may be riding in the car.

“The Patrol is committed to making the roadways safer through the use of education and enforcement campaigns such as Click it or Ticket,” said Col. David Brierton, director of the Florida Highway Patrol. “Seat belts have saved thousands of lives and are one of the most effective safety tools in your vehicle. Buckle up Florida, it is the law.”

Since 2009, Florida’s primary safety belt law requires drivers and passengers to fasten their safety belts and has saved countless lives. Three things to remember when it comes to seatbelts:

Buckle up every time you get in your vehicle.
Make sure your passengers are also buckled.
If you already wear your safety belt, keep it up.

As an incentive to increase awareness of the importance of wearing a seat belt to future drivers, the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles is inviting Florida middle school students to submit suggestions for a new seat belt poster and calendar for 2014. The contest will encourage students to submit ideas that will motivate others to buckle up. For more information, go to www.flhsmv.gov and click on Seat Belt Poster Contest.

Remember that you can dial *FHP (*347) from your cellphone to report an aggressive or impaired driver or to request roadside assistance.

Pinetta, FL; Mr. Ivan Homer Wallace, Jr. age 89, died Thursday, May 16, 2013 in

Valdosta, Georgia.

Funeral services will be held Sunday, May 19, 2013 at 3:00 P.M. in the chapel of T. J. Beggs, Jr. & Sons Funeral Home in Madison, Florida with interment to follow in the Pine Grove Cemetery in Madison. The family will receive friends 1 hour prior to the service. Donations may be made to, RDVMF Endowment Fund, Benjamin Pettus, Tres., 801 NE Jamestown Court, Blue Springs MO 64014-1847 or the charity of your choice.

He was born in Parkersburg, West Virginia and at an early age the family moved to Gainesville, Florida where he was raised. He graduated from Gainesville High School and also earned his bachelors in business administration from the University of Florida. He entered the U. S. Army during WWll .He worked as an accountant for Jim Ellis Chevrolet in Haines City and later Brasington Cadillac in Gainesville. He was a member of the Lions Club, Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion, he was past national president of both the Rainbow Division Veterans Association and also the Memorial Foundation. He lived in Lakeland i before moving to Pinetta in 1985. He liked to travel around the country. He was a Presbyterian.

He is survived by his wife, Myrtle Morse Wallace of Pinetta, a son, Ivan H. Wallace , lll (Sharron) of Gainesville, a grandson, Keith E. Wallace (Jeanne) of Gainesville, 2 great grandchildren, Madison Lynn Wasllace and Benjamin Ivan Wallace, a brother, Harold F. Wallace (Mickey) of Gainesville, a brother in law, Tom Morse of Pinetta. He was predeceased by a son, John Alan Wallace.

T. J. Beggs, Jr. & Sons Madison, Florida (850)973-2258

What: Free athletic physicals
When; Friday, May 24th 1:00 p.m.
Where: Madison County Central School
Who; Any current 8th grader who will be in 9th grade for the 2013-2014 school year and plans on playing football at Madison County High School.
Requirements: Must have all vital signs taken and recorded on the proper forms and must have a parent signature on all forms, or you will not be eligible for a physical.

Any young man interested in playing Cowboy football must have a valid physical and consent form to be able to begin summer weightlifting on Monday June 10th at 8:00 a.m.

http://www.fhsaa.org/sites/default/files/el02_physical.pdf

http://www.fhsaa.org/sites/default/files/el03_consent_5.pdf

http://www.fhsaa.org/sites/default/files/el03ch_concussion-heat_1.pdf

It was bound to happen eventually. I am a one-man operation. After 4 1/2 years – 7 days a week, it is finally taking its toll on me. I will still post emergency information and obituaries. Emails will be processed on the following Monday. Comment approval on weekends will be once per day, after 9:00 pm.

Thank you for understanding.

John Ovenden – MadisonVoice.com

“Memorial Day is an occasion of special importance, because it is a day sacred to the memory of all those Americans who made the supreme sacrifice for the liberties we enjoy .”

You are cordially invited to attend our “Open House” on May 27, 2013, which starts at 11:00am. Please feel welcome to bring your immediate family.

The “Open House” will have BBQ chicken dinners(1/4 chicken) with 2 sides and dessert for $7.00. Tour the facilities, and meet other veterans and their families. Our mission is serving active duty military personnel, veterans, their families, and serving our community.

Resources will be available to assist Veterans and Families obtain copies of military records and any Awards and Decorations the Veteran has earned. Such as Military Service Records and Official Military Personnel Files (OMPFs, DD Form 214 and separation/discharge papers that were issued before the Korean War )

Ever wondered where the medals and awards are for a love one who served? Here is an opportunity to replace them and leave a legacy for their service. Maybe they were lost or never issued at the time of separation.

Have a computer? The Online request site is called eVETSRecs:
Website is : https://vetrecs.archives.gov/VeteranRequest/home.html

This special event is open to the public and is a volunteer community service by the Cherry Lake American Legion.

We very much would like for you to become a part of our ‘family’. Anything we personally can do to assist you or your family, please do not hesitate to contact us.

For additional information call the Post at: 850.929.2953 or Regina Barber

We encourage all members to participate in this special event.

Cherry Lake AL– Post 224 | 4383 NE Cherry Lake Circle | Madison, FL 32340

Danatta Ellaphair Jones was born in Arcadia, FL, August 9th, 1929 to a hard working farm family. Life on the farm ignited her love for plants, propagation, and all God’s critters. Her education spanned from a two room schoolhouse, to graduation from Desoto High School at 16, to studying Biology and Education at Florida State College for Women.
She completed her studies as a member of the last women’s class at FSCW which became the newly recognized Florida State University during the final year of her education. After graduation, she taught high school science in Madison, Florida, where she met her husband Henry Crill Merryday and they married July 1, 1954.

She retired as a teacher to become a full time mother and homemaker and the Merryday’s moved to Tallahassee in 1959, where they remained for the rest of her life.

Active members of Saint Paul’s United Methodist Church and the Ed Wynn Sunday School class since they arrived in Tallahassee, she was a warm generous friend and neighbor.

Her welcoming nature formed lifelong friendships. She was a member of the Tallahassee Garden Club and always kept her love of nature, turning her yard into a plant nursery, butterfly garden, and bird sanctuary. Particularly dear to her heart were hummingbirds.

Serving others was her life. She cared for the sick, delivered Meals on Wheels, served through her church and took care of her parents.

She was an excellent cook, delighting in sharing food with others especially the large family gatherings at her house and at the Jones Thanksgiving camp. A particular pleasure was for her and Crill to spend a month annually at Mexico Beach where friends and family often came to share the pleasure of her hospitality.

Danatta died peacefully at her home on May 15 surrounded by her loving family. She was a loving wife to Crill for 58+ years, proud mother to Dana (Amy), Crill (Jill), Glenn Powell (Marvin), grandmother to Audrey (Wayne Haas), Emily, Justin (Samantha), Jordan, Clinton, Ben, Henry, Hugh, and great grandmother to Naomi, Titus.

She is also survived by a sister, Phala Bernhardt (Lacey Moore) and her beloved nieces, nephews and cousins.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held 2:00 p.m., Saturday, May 18, 2013 at St. Paul United Methodist Church. Family will receive friends from 6 until 8:00 p.m., Friday at Beggs Funeral Home, 3322 Apalachee Parkway, Tallahassee, FL. 32311, (850)942-2929.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 1700 N. Meridian Rd., Tallahassee, FL 32303.

May 18, 2013
MADISON, Fla.- Tommie Young inked his name on a football scholarship yesterday afternoon at Madison County High School. Young will play for Fairmont State University from Fairmont, West Virginia. The Falcons are an NCAA Division II school. The university was founded in 1865 and has an enrollment of 4,500.

I took today (Friday) off and went to the beach. I don’t think these pictures really need captions other than what Carlton Burnette said when he saw them on Facebook: “YOU BIG DUMMY”!

I wish Aloe was pouring out of my water faucets right now.

I laid there 30 minutes after this picture was taken.

John “Big Dummy” Ovenden – Madison Voice

LIVE OAK, FL, May 17, 2013 – The public is invited to attend two workshops on rule development for statewide consumptive use permitting consistency (“CUPcon”) hosted by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and Suwannee River Water Management District (District).

The purpose of CUPcon is to improve consistency in the consumptive/water use permitting programs implemented by the five water management districts.

The first meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, May 21 from 9:00-11:00 a.m. at the Tommy Usher Community Center, 506 SW 4th Avenue, Chiefland. The second will be held on Tuesday, May 21 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Suwannee River Water Management District’s headquarters, 9225 CR 49, Live Oak.

For more information visit the CUPcon page at DEP’s website or contact the District at 386.362.1001 or 800.226.1066 (FL toll free).

The Madison City Commission has authorized City Manager Tim Bennett to research the cost of intersection directional signage, using street signs in Mt. Dora, FL as a model.

The purpose of the signs is to alert residents and visitors to businesses in Madison’s Historic District.

Bennett today contacted Mt. Dora City Manager Mike Quinn. Quinn said his Public Works sign shop makes the signs using vinyl over metal similar to DOT signs. He volunteered to have his staff provide Bennett the specifications for fabrication.

Beginning immediately, Bennett is requesting businesses located in Madison’s Historic District to contact him if they would like to participate in the city’s sign program. The city will charge a fee to cover cost of materials and labor. The city has no sign shop like Mt. Dora, so fabrication of the signs may need to be outsourced.

Bennett’s contact information is (850) 973-5081 and madisoncitymgr@embarqmail.com.

AGENDA MAY 21, 2013, 5:30 P.M. SPECIAL MEETING MADISON CITY COMMISSION CITY HALL

321 SOUTHWEST RUTLEDGE STREET MADISON, FLORIDA 32340

1. Call to Order

2. Adoption of Agenda

3. Proposed Sale of City Property (Chuck Hitchcock, Community Development Director)

4. Adjourn

Tim Bennett, City Manager City of Madison

Madison Voice is closed for the day. I will be hanging out with the Seagulls.

The Madison Verizon Wireless Store now carrying the Samsung Galaxy S4.

Ask for John James!

The Annual Memorial Day Ceremony, will be held on Monday May 27th at 11am at the Gazebo, in the Madison City Park. Jerry Chandler, (USAF Retired) and Veterans Employment Repsentative, with Workforce of North Florida will be this years keynote speaker. Jerry is also the Vice-Commander of American Legion Post 224 in Cherry Lake. The Madison County Sheriff Department, Honor Guard will Post the Colors, Jim Jenkins will provide Patriotic Music including the anthems for all of the branches of the Armed Forces of America. (Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines, and Coast Guard). There will be a Flag Burning Ceremony, performed by American Legion Post 195, of Madison, Al Alexander, is the Commander. Residents of the community with Old Un-Serviceable US Flags, can bring them to the Ceremony on Memorial Day, and have them properly disposed. We want to encourage the entire community to come out and Remember and Honor the members of the Armed Forces, who paid the supreme price, so that we can enjoy our cherished freedoms today. you can contact Oliver Bradley, at the Madison County Veterans Service Office, located in the Courthouse Annex, call (850)973-3208 or e-mail madcovets@madisoncountyfl.com

FDOT News Release

Work began Monday on a project which will improve the ability for students to walk to the schools located on Base Street (U.S. 90) in Madison and also to the Madison County Recreational Complex. Sidewalks will be built along Base Street and Southwest Anastasia Way and crosswalks will be added as part of the federally funded “Safe Routes to School” program.

Work began on the east side of Southwest Anastasia Way between the recreational complex and Base Street. Other sidewalks being constructed include:

· on the south side of Base Street from Southwest Captain Brown Road to Southwest Anastasia Way

· on the north side of Northwest 90th Avenue between Base Street and Northwest Pickle Lane

· on the north side of Captain Brown Road from Southwest Fifth Avenue to Base Street.

Crosswalks will be added at the intersections along Base Street including at Madison County High and Central schools.

In addition to the new sidewalk and crosswalks, new flashing school zone signals will be installed, various driveways will be reconstructed, various drainage pipes will be upgraded and 12 mailboxes will be replaced with ones that meet current safety requirements

Lane closures will not be allowed until after 8 a.m. or between 2 and 3 p.m. weekdays. Flaggers will direct traffic during lane closures.

The construction of these five-feet, concrete sidewalks will cost $566,677.63 and is being funded by the Safe Routes to School program. This program is a collaborative effort by parents, schools, community leaders and local, state and federal governments working together to make walking and bicycling to school safer and more appealing for kindergarten through eighth grade students. Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) oversees the plan and construction of these projects.

CDM Contracting, Inc. of Lake Butler has been hired by FDOT to complete this project in the fall of 2013, barring unforeseen conditions including bad weather.

For additional information regarding this project or other FDOT projects around Northeast Florida, visit www.nflroads.com or call 800-475-0044. The public can also follow this project and other projects in Northeast Florida by following the FDOT on Twitter @MyFDOT_NEFL or http://twitter.com/MyFDOT_NEFL.

Madison: Louis Wilson Driggers, age 69, died Thursday, May 16, 2013 in Tallahassee.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.

He was born in Hamilton County to the late James E and Dimple Lenora Driggers.  He lived most of his life in Hamilton County and briefly lived in Anniston, AL. before moving to Madison in 2008. He was a welder and industrial mechanic for Occidental in White Springs. He was a US Navy Veteran of Vietnam. He loved fishing, woodworking and liked to build
things, and loved his children and grandchildren. He attended Pine Grove Baptist Church in Madison, FL.

He is survived by 1 son: Jarred Driggers of Anniston, AL; 1 daughter: Beth Vasquez (Joey) of Jasper; 1 brother: Dale Driggers (Ellen) of Tallahassee; 3 sisters: Doris Harris (Jeff) of Madison, Barbara Odom of Quinton, AL, Leta Farrier of Madison; 4 Grandchildren; Logan Register, Autumn Register, Peyton Vasquez, and Haven Vasquez, and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceeded in death by a sister Martha Carolyn Daugharty.

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

Letter to the Editor

I personally do not have a thing to gain by writing this letter, but I am truly amazed to see what is happening to Madison lately. We have northerners coming here and opening a business , which by the way is nothing wrong with that. All are always welcome here in Madison, But why on earth would someone open a business to sell the same product that is not but a block away from another’s.

Carolyn the hot dog lady has been there at the Post Office for a very long time , she’s a single mom raising her two girls and that all she has . As if our economy isn’t bad enough a business not but a block away selling an entirely different product for some ungodly reason is now selling HOT DOGS an actually ask Carolyn to advertise for them. REALLY ??? And yet another new business just a few blocks away with a three page menu slides in HOT DOGS on there menu. GIVE ME A BREAK.

I have lived here in Madison for almost 20 years and I know the people here have a lot more respect for another person’s business to purposely attempt to hurt another person’s lively hood. I don’t know, maybe they are just not smart enough to think of there own idea’s, but you just don’t purposely try to hurt another persons business , I say purposely as I just can’t see the big need for either of these business’s to be selling HOT DOGS when there main product has nothing to do with it.

Come on guys………..Have a little more respect then this.
I would be willing to bet that not selling HOT DOGS would make or break there business.
However it would Carolyn as that is her ONLY product. Sad thing is the nice person that she is , she would do anything to help someone, (except ADVERTISE for you that your selling HOT DOGS.)
I truly wish the best for Carolyn no matter what becomes of this and surely I am not alone.

Thank you,

Chris Kent

Applications for the annual Miss Madison County Pageant are now available to surrounding  counties! Ages are as followed; 0-11 months Baby Miss & Baby Mr., 12-23 months Infant Miss, 2- 3 yrs. Tiny Miss & Mr., 4-5 yrs. Little Miss, 6-7 yrs. Petite Miss, 8-9 yrs. Young Miss, and 10-12 yrs. Junior Miss. Young ladies between the ages of 13-15 will also have the chance to compete for the title of Teen Miss Madison. Contestants who are between the ages of 16 to 24 yrs. old and attend or plan to attend North Florida Community College as a full time student will have the opportunity to compete for the coveted title of Miss Madison County, along with a chance to win a $1500 scholarship to attend North Florida Community College.

With the incredible success of last year’s Mr. and Miss Heart of Madison Program, we are pleased to announce once again that anyone who wishes to participate can do so without having to enter the actual pageant. This program raised a grand total that surpassed one thousand dollars for our Miss Madison scholarship fund which in return was awarded to last year’s Miss Madison, Ashley Killingsworth. Since this program holds such a prestigious title everyone that participates
and completes the requirements will walk away with a beautiful crown and sash.

The pageant is set for Saturday, June 22 at 10:00 a.m. at Van H. Priest Auditorium on the campus of North Florida Community College in Madison. Applications may be picked up at Madison Dental Associates, Brenda’s Styles, and can be personally emailed to you. The deadline to enter is approaching fastso be sure to submit applications early as spaces are limited!

For more information feel free to contact:

Toni Blanton Norris at (850) 253-5394 or email: madisonpageants@aol.com.

Checkout Miss Madison County Scholarship Pageant on Facebook!

MADISON, FL (May 15, 2013) – Bruce K. Jordan, the city’s acting Fire Chief since August 2012, has been named Fire Chief of the City of Madison Fire Rescue Department, City Manager Tim Bennett announced today.

Jordan, with the department for approximately 18 years, advanced to his new position following the retirement of former Fire Chief Alfred Martin. Martin announced his retirement in a letter to the city dated May 9, 2013.

After two years as a volunteer with the department, Jordan was hired in 1995 as full-time firefighter. He was later appointed as the department’s training officer and eventually was promoted to shift supervisor in 2008, in effect, serving as one of three lieutenants. He officially acquired the lieutenant’s rank in 2012.

He is a graduate of Madison County High School and earned a two-year associates degree in Fire Science from St. Petersburg, FL College. He has certifications as a Fire Officer I and II, Fire Instructor I and II, Fire Inspector, Fire Investigator, and Emergency Medical Technician. He is a U.S. Army and National Guard veteran.

He and his parents moved from Thomasville, GA to Madison County when Jordan was three months old, and they have resided here since. He is married to the former Lisa Linton, and they have two children, Caitlyn and John. Lisa, his wife, is a shift supervisor for Madison County Emergency Medical Services.

Autism Support Kids 4-H Club & NFCC promote autism awareness

“Art Touched by Autism” Exhibit, Silent Auction May 28 at NFCC Hardee Center for the Arts

MADISON, FL – Madison County’s Autism Support Kids 4-H Club (A.S.K.) and North Florida Community College are joining forces to help raise money for autism awareness this month. Recently the NFCC Art Department hosted a painting workshop for A.S.K. that allowed local autistic children to create some amazing works of art. These works will be featured in an “Art Touched by Autism” Exhibit and Silent Auction on Tuesday, May 28 at 6 p.m. at the Hardee Center for the Arts (NFCC campus, Bldg. 11). Proceeds will benefit autism awareness and help fund camps, field trips and activities throughout the year for A.S.K. participants. All are invited to attend this special event.

“I encourage you to attend and participate in the auction for a great cause and a chance to take home an original work of art by one of these talented children,” said Lisa Thompson, NFCC Art Director. “During the workshop, we gave the children paints, brushes and canvases and the freedom to create whatever their hearts desired. It was so fun to watch them go.”

Autism affects over 2 million individuals in the U.S. and tens of millions worldwide. Current statistics identify around 1 in 88 American children on the autism spectrum. (Autism Speaks, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). The Madison County A.S.K. 4-H Club offers resources, support and activities to local autistic children and their families. Leslie McLeod, A.S.K. Leader, strongly believes that every child should have the same opportunities.

“I appreciate NFCC President John Grosskopf, Lisa Thompson and North Florida Community College for giving our children this great opportunity to express themselves through art, said McLeod. “I am thankful for the support from our community. It means so much to our families.”

For information contact Leslie McLeod, A.S.K. Leader, at (850) 929-4931 or lamcleod@live.com or Lisa Thompson, NFCC Art Director, at (850) 973-1642 or thompsonl@nfcc.edu.

Camp for 6-9th graders explores nursing, science, fitness and nutrition

Register now for Health Scholars 2013; Camp is June 17-20 at NFCC

MADISON, FL – North Florida Community College’s Allied Health department is now enrolling 6-9th grade students in its 2013 Health Scholars Camp. The camp will be held June 17-20 from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. at the NFCC Career and Technical Education Center. The four-day camp explores healthcare topics and careers – nursing, science, fitness and nutrition – in engaging, fun and educational ways.

Campers will enjoy games, team building exercises, skills training with state-of-the-art patient simulators, guest speakers and field trips to local healthcare facilities including a trip to the Florida State University College of Medicine in Tallahassee. NFCC registered nursing students and faculty will provide basic first aid skills and first aid training to participants and share information on how to plan for a chosen career in healthcare, including what classes to take in high school and college.

The camp, sponsored by Big Bend AHEC, the Healthcare Workforce Network and NFCC Allied Health, is a great camp for young students interested in healthcare as a possible career or students who simply want to have fun while learning valuable information this summer. Cost to attend is $50 per student. This fee includes meals, snacks and skills lab materials. Pre-registration is required. Space is limited to the first 20 students who pre-register. Deadline to register is Monday, June 10. To pre-register or for additional information, contact Denise Bell at (850) 973-9481 or email CommunityEducation@nfcc.edu.

Madison County Cur Dogs 8U Travel Ball Team will be hosting a chicken and rice fundraiser on Thursday May 16th on the courthouse lawn. Serving will begin at 11.00 am and plates are $5.00. Thank you.

The band and the art club at Madison County High School will hold their annual Kaleidoscope festival of the fine arts this Friday, May 17. The event will begin at 6:00 p.m. in the MCHS cafeteria with an art show displaying this year’s best student artworks. At 7:00 p.m., the band will perform an overview of the past year in the gymnasium, playing everything from the marching show to solos and ensembles. Kaeidoscope is an annual event showcasing the talent and hard work of students in the MCHS fine arts programs, and admission is free. Please come out, support the students at MCHS, and enjoy the show.

Tim Bennett

City Manager Notes

Madison, FL City Commission Meeting of 5/14/13

1. Call to Order

2. Agenda adopted

3. The following items were removed from the Consent Agenda and placed on the regular agenda:

(a) Item f: Revision to City Vehicle Policy

(b) Item j: Re-Appointment to Tourist Development Council

4. Consent Agenda

(a) Minutes of April 9, 2013 — Approved

(b) Minutes of May 6, 2013 – Approved

(c) Fire Report — Approved

(d) Police Report — Approved

(e) Financial Report — Approved

(f) Revision to City Vehicle Policy – Moved to Regular Agenda

(g) Proclamation Recognizing Police Week and Peace Officer Memorial Day — Approved

(h) Proclamation Recognizing Viva Florida 500 Celebration — Approved

(i) Proclamation regarding Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Awareness — Approved

(j) Re-Appointment to Tourist Development Council – Moved to Regular Agenda

5. Citizen’s Participation – Jack Culpepper spoke to the Commission regarding Little Pines Pediatrics. City staff will work with Mr. Culpepper to assist him in ensuring this existing business’ new facility complies with City ordinances.

6. The City Commission approved a motion to accept donated property and to authorize the mayor to sign the appropriate documents. The donated property is 31.690 acres of vacant land at Southeast Byrd Avenue (Parcel ID 27-1N-09-4308-001-000) and 18.1 acres of vacant land at Southeast Byrd (Parcel ID 27-1N-09-4308-000-000).

7. The City Commission approved a motion to accept the FY 11-12 Annual Audit.

8. The City Commission approved a motion to move forward with a USDA grant/loan project to renovate the second floor of the city’s Police Facility.

9. Police Chief Calhoun briefed the City Commission about the progress of a committee preparing traffic-safety recommendations for Crane Avenue in the vicinity of the new hospital construction.

10. The City Commission approved a Wastewater Agreement between the Department of Corrections and the City regarding wastewater service to Madison Correctional Institute.

11. City Manager Bennett briefed the Commission about plans to move forward with a recreational park near Jeanette Circle. Mr. Bennett will discuss the plans with the city’s insurance carrier and will explore ADA requirements. City Community Development Director Chuck Hitchcock will produce a proposed design for the park.

12. The City Commission approved relocating playground equipment to a recreational park off Martin Luther King Drive. The playground equipment was previously located across from Lake Frances.

13. City Manager Bennett briefed the Commission about options regarding new directional intersection signage for city streets. He will explore costs.

14. City staff will ask the North Central Florida Regional Planning Council to provide a cost estimate as to what it would charge to study a proposed expansion of the city’s Community Redevelopment Agency/Tax Increment Finance district. The cost would be included in the FY 13-14 budget process.

15. Police Chief Calhoun briefed the City Commission about research into the cost of a traffic engineer to conduct a study regarding the location of golf-cart crossings. A study is required by the Department of Transportation.

16. The date of July 9, 2013’s City Commission will not be changed.

17. Item “f” from the Consent Agenda: The City Commission approved the following addition to the City Vehicle Policy: “No illegal drugs or alcoholic beverages will be transported and/or stored in a city vehicle.”

18. Item “j” from the Consent Agenda: The City Commission reappointed Commissioner Catron to the Madison County Tourist Development Council.

http://www.wctv.tv/home/headlines/Tougher-Drunk-Driving-Threshold–207394281.html

*Click here for the PDF*

The MCHS JV and Varsity Cheerleaders are selling Boston Butts, Hams, Sausage, and Ribs in order to raise money to attend a UCA (Universal Cheerleader Association) Summer Camp at Florida State University next month. Each sells for just $25 and is cooked by Johnston’s Meat Market in Monticello, FL. Orders will be ready for pick up in time for the Memorial Day Weekend. Orders may be picked up at the Madison County Courthouse on Thursday, May 23, from 2:00 – 4:00 pm. To place an order, please contact any MCHS Cheerleader or Ruth Ann Latner (464-0236 cell/text or ruth.latner@madisonmail.us). Thanks in advance for your support!!!

*Submitted*

My name is Tonya and I am 26 years old.  I have 2 small children.  I am currently looking for a receptionist or clerical job. I don’t have to much experience in this field but I have worked as a cashier for the last 7 years and worked as a assistant manager at B&B.  I am also a quick learner.  If interested in knowing more, my number is 850-929-2902 please leave a message if I am not here or email me coolgurl115@hotmail.com

MONDAY MORNING STRUCTURE FIRE IN MADISON COUNTY
On Monday, May 13, 2013 at 10:18 AM Madison 911 Center received a report of a structure fire at 1686 SW Mosley Hall Road in southern Madison County. New Home Fire Rescue and Madison Fire Rescue were dispatched to the scene. Arriving units found an abandon home that was in the process of being torn down had caught fire. Firemen quickly contained the flames to the structure and avoided the fire spreading to nearby trees and other buildings. The cause of the fire is not known at the time of this report at 12:35 PM. No injuries have been reported. Madison County Emergency Medical Services and a Madison County Deputy Sheriff were also on scene.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is celebrating Florida’s successes with endangered and threatened species throughout the week leading up to Endangered Species Day on May 17.

This year is also the 40th anniversary of the Endangered Species Act, which was approved by Congress and signed by President Richard Nixon in 1973.

The Florida panther is featured Monday, May 13 on MyFWC Facebook. It is the first of a series of wildlife spotlights this week focusing on the successes and challenges of conserving Florida’s imperiled species.

Visit Facebook.com/MyFWC through Friday to find out more about what it takes to conserve endangered or threatened species in Florida and how you can help.

More on Florida’s endangered and threatened species is available at MyFWC.com/ImperiledSpecies.

May 11, 2013
VERO BEACH, FLA- Gulliver Prep from Miami won their fourth consecutive state softball title with a 9-1 win this afternoon over the Madison County Cowgirls at the Vero Beach Sports Village. The Cowgirls were held to two hits. Hope Smith and Kay Henderson each had a hit. Hope Smith was driven in by Kay Henderson’s double in the first inning. Madison County finished 14-15 for the season.

2013 seniors taking their last picture together with head coach Edwin Kinsey. (Left to right) Rachael Webb, Kailee Morris, Logan Groover, Tamela Brinson and Brooke Kinsey.

The Cowgirls, Coach Tommy Garner, Coach Edwin Kinsey and Team Chaplain Sabrina Parker Durst.

Madison County head coach Edwin Kinsey accepting the runners-up trophy at today’s 4A championship game.

Medals for the Cowgirls

Worse President Ever?

The wrath of progressives started during the Teddy Roosevelt administration then on to Woodrow Wilson. During the FDR Administration, we saw the beginning of communism in our country. Richard Nixon was considered by many at the time to be the most lawless president of our time. Jimmy Carter? Had problems walking and chewing gum. Bill Clinton attempted to undermine the Constitution but succeeded only in his miss-behavior in the White House and including perjury before a grand jury, which finally led to his impeachment. George Bush had the Patriot Act, I have reservations on some of that.

The above pales in contrast to Barack Obama and his administration, the last four and a half years. From all the lies we have been told, lies on immigration, gun control, the stimulus bill, theft from the bondholders of General Motors and then, given to the United Auto Workers. The corruption of Solyndra, murder along our southern border because Operation Fast and Furious, the $20 billion shakedown of BP after the Gulf oil spill (I wonder where all that money went?) and, then there’s, Obamacare, this president has taken the word “Gangster” to a whole new level.

Today, we have Benghazi. Finally, the press woke up, well, perhaps somewhat. Only time will tell. If the press does its job, Obama’s lies pertaining to the terrorist attack in Benghazi, Libya, on September 11, 2012, could quite possibly wake up the people of this country.

Weeks after the attack, Obama, and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Susan Rice, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, and a gaggle of others, tried convincing us that a dumb You Tube video was behind the attack, and the destruction of our Embassy in Benghazi, Libya, and the killing of four American citizens. We were supposed to believe
that these spontaneous protesters were to blame but only after and when the protesters got out of hand. What? These attackers were armed with hand-held rocket propelled grenade launchers and a bunch of full automatic weapons. They meant to kill any, and everyone in that compound.

Today, with testimony coming forth in Congress, the ugly truth is spilling out. Despite the White House trying to hold back any information it has, whistleblowers are telling the true story as it really happened. Those stories do not sound anything like the version the White House and the State Department have been spoon-feeding us the last eight months.

Why did the President of the United States, his Secretary of State and Secretary of Defense allow our ambassador and three brave Americans trying to defend him to be murdered? Why did they lie to us about the cause of the attacks? What was Ambassador Stevens doing in a known dangerous place like Benghazi? The British had already boogied on out of there after they had been attacked. I’ve read notes on the Internet where we may have been running guns again, kinda sorta like Fast and Furious only this time we are supposedly sending these firearms to the terrorists in Syria through Turkey. “I haven’t been able to confirm this yet”, but I will.

The very two most pertinent questions for me are these: 1- Will the media tell us the truth about government law- breaking and cover-up? 2- Do the American people really care? I guess I’ll find out when this note posts?

The following are some excerpts from what has been discovered thus far. Undersecretary of State Elizabeth Jones “told me I had to improve my management style and that some people were upset with me,” Hicks testified. When Hicks returned to Washington for the funeral of Ambassador Christopher Stevens. Jones “gave me a blistering critique of my
management style,” he said. He has now been demoted for his effort.

Rep. Elijah Cummings, D-Md., top Democrat on the oversight committee, accused Republicans of using the witnesses for “political purposes.” I expected nothing else.

Hicks said he asked twice whether an F-16 or some other “fast-mover” aircraft could fly over the area with hopes it would scatter the attackers. “I talked with the defense attaché, Lt. Col. Keith Phillips, and I asked him, ‘Is there anything coming?’” A four-man team of military special operations forces in Tripoli was organized, geared up and ready to board a C-130 aircraft, in order to help those in Benghazi when that commander was ordered to stand down by his superiors, Hicks said. Hicks went on to say “He got a phone call from SOCAFRICA (Special Operations Command Africa) which said, you can’t go now, you don’t have authority to do so,”

I have problems with that; I have really big problems with that decision. That compound in Benghazi is American soil and should be defended totally and completely. Damn the chain of command. After losing 150 men in less than 20 minutes a Marine private took command of a platoon and was able to get them out of harms way. That’s what we do; we
take care and help our own, always. I want to know just who it is that told this command leader whatever his rank is to step down, I also want to know whom this sissy is that didn’t go help in Benghazi anyway. Where the hell are the General Patton’s when you need them? Are desk jockey’s all we have left?

OH! I was informed last night that the White House held a secret briefing for a few select media on Benghazi on 10 May 2013. I’ll bet the remainder of the Media isn’t very happy about that deal. Wonder what went on in that meeting? Wonder how they will spin this
out.

George Pouliotte

May 10,2013

VERO BEACH, FL – Freshman pitcher Carlie Ginn limited the Bishop Verot Vikings to three hits this afternoon in an FHSAA Class 4A state semifinal game and the Cowgirls of Madison County took a 4-2 win. Ginn allowed no earned runs while striking out eight. Ginn gave up only one base on balls. Tamela Brinson drove in two of the Madison County runs. Scoring runs for the Cowgirls were Hope Smith (2), and Alexis Livingston and Kay Henderson with one each. Logan Groover contributed with an RBI and a double. Senior first baseman Brooke Kinsey had the other RBI. Bishop Verot from Ft. Myers finished the season 27-4. Madison County (14-14) will take on the Gulliver Prep Raiders from Miami for the title game tomorrow at 1:35 p.m. Gulliver Prep defeated Bradford 7-2 this afternoon. You can watch the championship game on the internet by accessing http://www.playonsports.com/channels/softball/events/59155.

 CARLIE GINN, MADISON COUNTY’S WINNING PITCHER

^^^

PHOTO GALLERY FROM CLASS 4A STATE SEMIFINAL AGAINST BISHOP VEROT ON MAY 10, 2013.

MARJORIE WEBB WOODARD

Marjorie Webb Woodard was called home to be with God after a long illness on Thursday, May 9th, 2013 in Jacksonville, FL. Funeral services will be held on Monday, May 13th, 2013. The family will receive friends at 10:00AM in Beggs Chapel followed by the service at 11:00AM. Burial will follow at Macedonia Baptist Church Cemetery. Officiating will be the Rev. Eugene Stokes and Rev. Gabe Krell of first Baptist Church in Madison, FL where Marjorie was a long standing member.

She was born on September 6th, 1921 in Madison County to Mr. Thomas and Trudie Welch Webb of Lee, FL. She lived in Madison most of her life except the last 7 years in Jacksonville, FL. Her husband, William Hazel Woodard preceded her in death in 2008.

She is survived by two daughters, Sheryle Annette Stout and husband Steve Stout as well as Brenda Woodard Jones and husband Steve Jones; four grandsons: Kevin Stout (Michele), Jason Stout (Raquel), Stephen Jones (Caren) and Matthew Jones (Brittany). She is also survived by six grandchildren: Skylar Mathis, Hayden Stout, Trenton Stout, Zoey Stout, Ethan Jones and Rian Madison Jones as well as many loving nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was an active and faithful member of First Baptist Church in Madison having served as church secretary and association secretary for over 30 years. She was a member of the choir, the Senior Adult Ministry, WMU, Nita McCullough Circle and the Friendship Sunday School class. She was also a member of the Madison Woman’s Club and Madison County Genealogical Society. She spent many hours tracking the ancestry of her family and found great joy in sharing the family history with the grandchildren. Marjorie always enjoyed preparing meals for her family and spending time with her close circle of friends.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Madison First Baptist Church Building Fund (P.O. Box 307 Madison, FL 32341).

AGENDA

MAY 14, 2013

MADISON CITY COMMISSION MEETING

CITY HALL

321 SOUTHWEST RUTLEDGE STREET

MADISON, FLORIDA 32340

5:30 P.M.

1.      Call to Order

2.      Adoption of Agenda

3.      Items Removed from Consent Agenda

4.      CONSENT AGENDA:

(a)   Minutes of April 9, 2013

(b)   Minutes of May 6, 2013

(c)    Fire Report

(d)   Police Report

(e)   Financial Report

(f)     Revision to City Vehicle Policy

(g)   Proclamation Recognizing Police Week and Peace Officer Memorial Day

(h)   Proclamation Recognizing Viva Florida 500 Celebration

(i)     Proclamation regarding Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Awareness

(j)     Re-Appointment to Tourist Development Council

5.      Citizen’s Participation (6 p.m.)

6.      Acceptance of Donation of Property (City Manager)

7.      FY 11-12 Annual Audit (City Manager)

8.      USDA Project to Renovate the 2^nd Floor of the Police Facility (Architect Will Rutherford)

9.      Traffic Safety Recommendations Regarding Area in and around Site of New Hospital and New Charter School (Police Chief Gary Calhoun)

10.  Wastewater Agreement with Department of Corrections (City Manager)

11.  Proposed Recreation Park near Jeanette Circle (City Manager)

12.  Playground Equipment at Recreation Park Located on Martin Luther King Drive (City Manager)

13.  Proposed Directional Signage for Intersections (City Manager)

14.  Proposed Expansion of Tax Increment Finance District (City Attorney)

15.  Proposed Golf Cart Crossings (Police Chief Gary Calhoun)

16.  Change Date of July 2013 City Commission Meeting (Commissioner Thompson)

17.  City Manager’s Report

18.  Other Items of Interest to the Commission

19.  Adjourn

Tim Bennett, City Manager

City of Madison