Wednesday 75¢ February 17, 2021 One Section 58th year, No. 7

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Dequan Dodson TCI inmate’s death under 47% of local seniors investigation by FDLE have received shot The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) is Nearly half of Taylor County’s senior population have received at least one dose of the COVID vaccine, just six weeks after investigating the death it first became available to the area. of an inmate at Taylor Correctional Institution (TCI) that occurred on Sunday, Jan. 31. Officials with FDLE Health Department: No waiting said that the case was active and therefore no further details regarding the inmate’s death list for COVID-19 vaccinations “would be provided at this time.” The Taylor County health department Martine Young, all 2,900 people on the list have vaccine, they did not want to drive to Taylor Florida Department officially has no waiting list for thosenow 65 been years cleared, of and there are only 63 people County – as there were lots of people on the list of Corrections (FDOC) age or older wishing to receive the coronavirus scheduled to receive the vaccine this Friday, from Tampa, Miami -- or they decided they did officials identified (COVID-19) vaccine. Feb. 19. not want the vaccine,” Young said. the inmate as Dequan According to the latest information available, The extensive waiting list (which totaled “As an example, one of our employees took a Dodson, 27. nearly half (47%) of Taylor County’s senior 3,900 people one week ago) was whittled down list of roughly 120 people. Out of all those calls, “The safe and secure population has now received at least one dose of to 2,900 last Thursday, as health department two were scheduled,” Young explained. operation of Florida’s the vaccine -- just six weeks after it first became officials attempted to make contact with Some each of the same circumstances resulted in correctional institutions available to the area. person to schedule them to receive the vaccine. DOH-Taylor only being able to schedule 320 of is the FDOC’s top priority. According to Florida Department of Health- “It was a case of people either did not answer ➟ Please see page 2 Every inmate death is Taylor (DOH-Taylor) Operations Manager and call back, they had already received the thoroughly investigated to ensure independent oversight and absolute accountability at all Roll-off sites targeted nightly by vandals levels,” FDOC officials said. Records show that Taylor County’s solid That was the message its Jan. 28 workshop, and night,” Wambolt said. Aucilla Area Solid Waste. Dodson was serving a waste roll-off collection delivered to the Taylor although multiple aspects of In addition to the damage “They just put up a 45-year sentence for sites are being broken County Commission the department were topics and theft, the break-ins new fence at Carlton second degree murder. into on a nightly basis, as recently by Environmental of discussion, a significant also result in bins being Cemetery after the pipeline According to reports, vandals have cut holes in Services Director Gary portion of the talk revolved contaminated by people construction was done,” Dodson was 17 years old fences or ripped down gates Wambolt, who oversees around the break-ins at tossing garbage from one Commissioner Jim Moody when he shot and killed a to steal scrap metal or sift the county’s solid waste county roll-off sites. bin to another, resulting in said. “They’ve got the Jacksonville man during through garbage in search department. He addressed “They come in probably higher tipping fees when ➟ Please see page 2 a dispute over $10. of pills and other items. the commission during four or five sites every the waste is delivered to Shoaf seeks $1.4 million for Taylor

Heading into the 2021 County Sports Complex, The largest of Shoaf’s to rebuild and come back provide $6 million to rebuild Florida Legislative session, $350,000 for a Taylor funding requests is $25 stronger than ever,” Shoaf the Wakulla Emergency Rep. Jason Shoaf (HD 7) County School District million, which would go said. “The residents and Operations Center. He has has filed budget requests“Safe and Secure Schools” toward beach restoration businesses of North Florida also requested $1.5 million totaling more than $80 electronic key card system in Mexico Beach, where have proven resilient time to support the construction million to support projects and $81,675 for auditorium Hurricane Michael and time again, but there of a new Franklin County across the 10 counties he improvements at Forest destroyed much of the are some projects that Emergency Operations represents, including $1.4 Capital Hall. waterfront and left most of can’t be built with grit and Center. million for projects in The projects represent the town in disrepair. determination. They require Other requests for state Taylor County. the legislative funding “North Florida has state funding. I’m working funding were submitted The funding requests requests made by the Taylor suffered one hit after closely with my colleagues for the Calhoun-Liberty for local projects include County School Board and another, from the Gulf in the House and Senate Hospital ($3 million for $606,000 for improvements Taylor County Commission oil spill to Hurricane to make the case for these facility replacement), the to the Taylor County for the upcoming legislative Michael to COVID-19. projects to be funded.” Madison County Hospital Courthouse, $424,000 for session, which will begin in These communities need Another funding request ➟ Please see page 3 Rep. Jason Shoaf softball fields at the TaylorMarch. the support they deserve made by Rep. Shoaf would A history of Taylor County: Forest Capital book is a story about people, not just a place By ANGELA M. CASTELUCCI history because you have has led him into a career about people, not just a Managing Editor to study land ownership as an archives historian, it place.” Growing up a sixth- – going back generations also inspired him to write The book begins with generation Taylor Countian, in some cases,” Goodman the first complete history ofa look at the county’s Josh Goodman enjoyed a said. Taylor County. prehistoric era and the years steady diet of homespun “So that’s how my His book, “Forest before Florida’s statehood. stories about the men and interest in the history of Capital: A History of Taylor The second chapter dives women who shaped the Taylor County started. County, Florida” is hot into the lives of the county’s county. History in general was off the presses and now early settlers, most of whom “My mother’s family something I have always available at The Book Mart came from Georgia and the has been in Taylor County enjoyed learning about, in Perry. Carolinas. since before the Civil War, and I had an enjoyable high “This story moves you From there, the book and I heard stories from school experience with through time quickly. But winds through the Civil my parents, grandparents history thanks to teachers it tells the story in such a War, the county’s cattle and great-grandparents. My like Ann White and Tim way that you can follow days and the impact of Tripp,” he said. the timber and turpentine father isn’t from here, but my footsteps and find what Plans are underway for a book-signing with While Goodman’s you need to learn more,” he was a land surveyor, and author Josh Goodman, whose new book details homegrown love of the past Goodman said. “It’s a story ➟ Please see page 3 that puts you in contact with Taylor County’s history. Index Weather Religion ...... A-4 Editorial ...... A-8 Wednesday 61˚ Thursday 73˚ Sports ...... A-5 Classifieds ...... A-10 Community ...... A-7 38˚ 55˚ Serving the Tree Capital of the South Since 1963 30% 40% A-2 Taco Times February 17, 2021

Percentage of Seniors with at least One Dose of COVID-19 Vaccine ns 63.37% 10.95% tte 57.86% 8.16% 70%00%a 56.73% 11.63% lin 55.17% 10.42% n Lafayette54.12%Madison 12.26% 60%00% 57.86%54.10%51.69% 12.97% osa 52.14%Jefferson 13.30% 51.76%50.85% 9.23% Taylor 40%00%n 51.69% 16.49% 47.29% on 50.85% 8.34% Florida Beach 50.51% 8.23% 39.78% Dixie 40%00%n 50.20% 9.55% 36.04% 49.97% 10.60% n 48.95% 11.29% 30%00% 48.65% 14.66% 47.90% 15.73% bia 47.88% 13.27% 20%00% 47.64% 8.87% 47.29% 6.88% on 44.73% 16.08% 10%00%ard 44.32% 9.34% River 43.85% 5.91% le 43.65% 5.95% 0%00% 43.38% 9.97% Lee Bay Gulf Clay Polk Levy Lake Leon

nee 42.01% 10.03% Dixie Duval Baker Pasco Citrus Union Taylor Collier Flagler Martin Glades Liberty Oseola Nassau Walton Volusia DeSoto Sumter Marion Hardee Hendry Orange Holmes Jackson Pinellas Putnam Alachua Brevard Franklin Monroe Wakulla Calhoun Gilchrist St. Lucie Broward Madison Sarasota St. Johns Gadsden FLORIDA

e 41.91% 7.66% Bradford M Jefferson Manatee Hamilton Okaloosa Seminole Lafayette Escambia Charlotte Columbia Highlands Hernando Suwannee Santa Rosa Santa Washinton Palm Beach Palm Indian River Miami-Dade

41.54% 10.02% Hillsborough Okeechoebee sa 41.43% 17.24% County percentages were calculated using the Florida Department of Health’s daily COVID-19 county report for Feb. 15, which included vaccine counts through Feb. 14, along with latest U.S. Census estimates for county population and age breakdowns, specifically those 65 years and older. The statewide percentage was calculated using the same data, but with 68,052 people listed as “out-of-state” removed to avoid skewing the results. Taylor ranks 21st in Florida for senior vaccinations VACCINATIONS 70%,” Young said. order to derive the ranking. 4,529 seniors living in vaccine in Florida. That senior population (63.63%) Overall, slightly more As of Sunday, Feb. 14, Taylor County. number was removed who had received at least Continued from page 1 than 12% of the county’s a total of 2,597 people in As such, the 2,142 from the TaCo Times’ one dose, followed closely their allotted 500 vaccines total population has Taylor County had received seniors who have received calculations to not avoid by Wakulla (63.44%) available to be given out received at least one dose, at least one dose of the at least one dose of the skewing the results when and St. Johns (63.37%) during last Friday’s mass which ranks Taylor County vaccine, including 255 at vaccine account for 47.29% calculating the percentage counties. vaccination clinic at Forest 26th in the state and again the clinic held on Friday, of those 65 or older living of Florida’s seniors Meanwhile, Glades Capital Hall. above the state average Feb. 12, at Forest Capital in Taylor County. who had received the County ranked last, with When only 285 people level of 10.8%. Hall. As for those who have vaccine. just 22.95% of its senior showed up for their The TaCo Times arrived Through Sunday, 1,580 completed their two-dose However, the local population having received appointments last Friday, at these figures using the people had received the series, 889 people age 65 or calculations do include at least one dose, slightly the 35 remaining vaccines Florida Department of first dose, while 1,017older had had done so through 1,128 people whose origins worse than Highlands were offered to DOH- Health’s (DOH) COVID-19 received both. Sunday, accounting for are listed as “unknown.” County at 23.51%. Taylor staff and local clinic vaccine data posted online Of the 2,597 people who 19.6% of local seniors. Using U.S. Census Among Taylor County’s volunteers so they would through Sunday, Feb. 14, have received the vaccine Similarly, 4.7% of the population and senior neighbors, Lafayette not be wasted. along with the most recent locally, 2,142 were age county’s total population citizen estimates, 39.78% (57.86%), Madison Meanwhile, the available U.S. Census 65 or older, based on the had received both doses. of Florida’s seniors (or (51.69%) and Jefferson remaining 180 doses will estimates for both the DOH vaccine report issued Statewide, some 1,785,696 people age 65 or (50.85%) counties had a be carried forward to this county’s total population, Monday. 2,319,298 Floridians had older) had received at least higher percentage of their Friday’s clinic. as well as the percentage of According to the U.S. received at least one dose of one dose of the vaccine senior population receiving DOH-Taylor is also those living here who are Census, 21% of Taylor the vaccine through Sunday. through Sunday. the vaccine, placing fourth, expecting a shipment of 65 or older. County’s population is The official statewide Additionally, 10.8% of 10th and 11th in the state 500 more doses this week. Similar calculations were age 65 or older, and based vaccine total of 2,387,350 the state’s total population respectively. Meanwhile, At this time, those who made for all of Florida’s on the latest population as of Sunday included had received the vaccine. Dixie County trailed Taylor are 65 years or older may other 66 counties, as well estimate of 21,569 people, 68,052 out-of-state people Leon County had the with 36.04%, placing receive their first dose asof the state as a whole, in there are approximately who also received the highest percentage of its 43rd. the COVID vaccine as early as Friday, Feb. 19, by calling (850) 584-5087 (select option 2) to schedule New fence at Harrison Blue roll-off an appointment. With approximately 47% of those 65 or older having received the vaccine, Taylor County ranks 21st out of site cut three times in the first week Florida’s 67 counties in ROLL-OFF SITES said. “Before I go to work, Harrison Blue (roll-off fixed it I’ll say seven times break in and steal the water this regard – well above I will drive by three or four site),” Wambolt said at the in a month.” pump from the well. It’s just the state average level of Continued from page 1 of them. I went in there the workshop. “You put a lot of “If we can’t stop that, ongoing. 39.78%. wire bent down all the other day, and there’s a guy money in that -- $80,000 or why do we stop our “They’re in there every “The magic number is way across the back from in there getting metal.” $90,000, including $20,000 residents?” Commissioner night, Blue Springs and 70%. We have vaccinated people climbing over the Wambolt said he reported for the fence. That fence Michael Newman asked. Harrison Blue,” Wambolt roughly 45% of our senior wire. They climb in there, the break-in, and the person was cut three times the first“Why do we allow folks to said. “It’s not odd for them citizens, but we hope to hit and they get the household was arrested by the TCSO. week. I mean, literally cut trespass when we tell our to come up and hook a chain garbage, and they dig residents, who are paying to the gates and snatch the through it and just throw it I’ve caught people in the compactor their rates, that they can’t gates down. They do it all over to the next dumpster as getting household trash, looking for go in there?” the time.” they go. pills and stuff. I mean up on inside that thing. The county closed all of Feagle again questioned “Some good lighting And, it’s rough in there. the walk-through gates at the whether the revenue would eliminate some of “ roll-off sites several years received from selling the that,” Moody said. “But, -- Director of Environmental Services Gary Wambolt ago at the recommendation metal was worth the cost. there’s a couple of the sites of its liability insurance Wambolt said beyond the out in the country, and “I thought these guys chunks out where they were carrier due to concerns over lost revenue of the stolen nobody can drive right by. were being prosecuted,” he hauling things out. That site the possibility of people metal was the cost of the Still, it would be harder to said. “And, I’m not sure if there, I’ve caught people being injured after hours. vandalism itself. dig through all of that trash they are or not. That’s why in the compactor getting “It got so bad one time, I “If we could figure a way if they were lit up. It would I’m going to try to find out.” household trash, looking for spent the night out there and to secure the sites,” he said. help a little bit. Cameras Wambolt cautioned that pills and stuff. I mean up on caught them,” Wambolt. “We’ve had them kick in would help a little bit too.” he did not know that the inside that thing. And, it’s “It’s been several years ago. a $250 door to steal two Wambolt said he was alleged perpetrators were rough in there. working to set up a meeting not being prosecuted, but he “That is some of the stuff We’ve had them kick in a $250 door to with the Taylor County wanted more information we’re up against,” Wambolt steal two Gatorades out of the fridge. Sheriff’s Office (TCSO)from TCSO. When asked said. That’s happened several times. They’ll break in to discuss the issue of about the meeting last week, Commissioner Pam and steal the air conditioner out of the window vandalism and theft at the County Administrator Feagle questioned whether “ and stuff like that. roll-off sites, as well as to LaWanda Pemberton said the county was receiving get an update on a number she requested Wambolt enough money for the metal -- Director of Environmental Services Gary Wambolt arrests made at the sites. include her in the eventual that is often the target of “I go by the sites early sit-down. theft to make the vandalism “It’s frustrating, and it’s Gatorades out of the fridge. in the morning,” Wambolt “A good example is worth it in the end. frustrating to you guys too,” That’s happened several “You’re not going to stop he said. “I don’t have a crew. times. They’ll break in and it all,” she said. Danny O’Quinn will come steal the air conditioner out “At Harrison Blue, I over and help us repair of the window and stuff like stopped fixing the fence,”the fence or whatever they that.” Wambolt said. “I know we terrorize that night. They’ll Pemberton noted county staff hopes gates being installed at the Steinhatchee and Blue Springs roll- off sites will help with vandalism. Unlike the current gates, the new gates will be installed alongside the main roadway, which they hope will discourage trespassing. “I think we’re trying to put in steps,” Pemberton said. She added that they have tried a higher fence at Harrison Blue when the new fence was installed following the renovations, but admitted that it was not a deterrent and not something they plan to try again at other sites. A-3 Taco Times February 17, 2021 Planning begins on Keaton, Steinhatchee dredging

The planning and design Two firms responded, JonesOpportunities and Revived beaches, coastal wetlandsfor its Pot 1 funds includes and Steinhatchee. Under phase of the canal dredging Edmunds Engineering Economies of the Gulf Coast and economy of thefive Gulf canal restoration and the implementation plan, projects for Keaton Beach and Consulting Services States Act) dedicated 80 Coast region. enhancement projects along which was approved by and the Steinhatchee boat and Wood Environment percent & of all administrative Once the planning and the local coast totaling an Treasury, the county agreed ramp basin is officiallyInfrastructure Solutions, and civil penalties related design are complete, the estimated $4,750,900. The to contribute $11,145 as a underway. Inc. to the Deepwater Horizon county is expected to seekplan a calls for the county match for the Keaton Beach In June 2020, the county The bid committeespill to restore and protect second grant from Treasuryto provide $674,764 incanal dredging overall received its first RESTOREreviewed both firmsthe natural resources, to fund the actual dredging matching funds. project cost of $1,061,550. Act grant in the amount and recommended the ecosystems, fisheries,work. The first two projects ➟ Please see page 9 of $148,500 to covercommission select marine and wildlife habitats,Taylor County’s plan will be Keaton Beach the projected cost of the Wood. The commission planning and design of the endorsed the committee’s two dredging projects. recommendation at its Dec.Mediation hearing in lawsuit from former The grant is part of an 7 meeting. expected $4 million in At the board’s Jan. 19 RESTORE Act “Pot 1” meeting, the commission county administrator moved to March 10 funds Taylor County is received an update from expected to receive from Heather Pullen with A mediation hearing in Last month, the issues and a lack ofcontract and due process administrative fines andLangton Consulting, the the lawsuit filed by formercommission voted to community involvement, by not providing him civil penalties levied after firm hired by the countyCounty to Administrator Ted appoint Commissioner the county commission with a hearing prior to his the Deepwater Horizon oversee its RESTORE ActLakey against the Taylor Michael Newman asvoted the 4-0 to terminatetermination, as well as oil spill, which are heldgrants. County Commission over board’s representative Lakey’s contract at a three Nov. other claims. by the U.S. Department of According to Pullen, his 2018 firing has beenduring the mediation 14, 2018, special meeting,Prior to the mediation Treasury in a Gulf Coastthey entered into contract moved up from April 2 tohearing, which is expectedless than two years meeting after being set, the Restoration Trust Fund. negotiations with Wood on March 10. to be held virtually.he was hired on Jan.case 30, was scheduled for a Last fall, the county Dec. 10, and a contract was County Attorney Conrad Commissioner Jamie 2017. jury trial on June 16-18, advertised for firmssigned to in early January. Bishop updated the English is the alternative in Lakey filed suit against 2021, following a case provide the design and The RESTORE Act commission on the date case Newman is unable to the board in late 2019, management conference planning services for the (Resources and Ecosystems change at the board’s Feb.attend. alleging the county on Feb. 11 and a pretrial canal dredging projects. Sustainability, Tourist 1 meeting. Citing job performance violated his employment conference on April 7. 2021 legislative session slated to begin March 2 SHOAF • Apalachicola Inflow and Infiltration Study - $75,000 $1,500,000 Continued from page 1 • Apalachicola Stormwater Pipe Relining and Backflow • Graduate Medical Education - Tallahassee Memorial Devices - $100,000 Hospital - $800,000 ($350,000 for surgical suite equipment) and the Jefferson • Bay County Crayfish Habitat Restoration - $8,000,000 • Gulf County Airport Infrastructure - $975,000 County Sheriff’s Office ($1.2 million for emergency • Bay Youth Summer Work Foundation - $95,000 • Gulf County Water Infrastructure - $975,000 communications system). • Blountstown FEMA Waiver - $831,392 • Hurricane Michael - Calhoun County Schools Portables “Each of these projects that need funding provide public • Blountstown Police Department Renovation - $500,000 - $361,800 services that are essential to our region. I know we have • Blountstown Wastewater Effluent Discharge - • Jefferson County Broadband System - $1,000,000 limited resources this year, and we must do more with less. $1,000,000 • Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office Emergency But I’m going to fight for our region to get the support it • Bristol Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvements - Communication System - $1,200,000 deserves.” $236,500 • Lafayette District Schools Safe and Secure Schools Florida’s 2021 legislative session begins on March 2 and • Bristol Water System Improvements - $560,000 Electronic Access Control Key System - $400,000 is scheduled to last for 60 days. The legislature must pass • Calhoun County - Scotts Ferry Volunteer Fire • Liberty County High School New Vocational Program a balanced budget, informed by revenue estimates for the Department Fire Truck - $300,000 - $150,000 year ahead, before it adjourns. The governor must approve • Calhoun County Administration Building/Extension • Liberty County Hosford Water System Improvements and sign the budget before the fiscal year ends June 30. TheOffice - $2,000,000 - $350,000 state’s new fiscal year starts July 1. • Calhoun County Chipola River Hurricane Michael • Liberty County Rock Bluff Water System Improvements Shoaf is the State Representative for House District 7 Debris Clean-Up - $1,000,000 - $400,000 in Florida. First elected during a special election to fill a • Calhoun County Jail Administration Building - • Lynn Haven Lift Stations and Forcemain Improvement vacancy in 2019, he was subsequently reelected in 2020.$1,500,000 - $1,000,000 House District 7 encompasses Calhoun, Franklin, Gulf, • Calhoun Liberty Hospital - Facility Replacement - • Lynn Haven Wastewater Stormwater Improvements - Jefferson, Lafayette, Liberty, Madison, Taylor and Wakulla $3,000,000 $1,000,000 counties, as well as a part of Leon County. • Charlie Johns Street Signal - $350,000 • Lynn Haven Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion - The full list of budget requests filed by Rep. Shoaf • City Hall Renovation - Madison - $25,000 $1,000,000 includes: • Connecting Everyone with Second Chances - $716,000 • Madison County Agricultural and Expo Center - • Aerial Photography - $359,418 • Disproportionate Share Hospital - Tallahassee Memorial $650,000 • Altha Water System Improvements - $175,000 Hospital - $950,000 • Madison County Memorial Hospital Surgical Suite • Apalachicola Bay Drone Oyster Seeding Project - • Forest Capital Hall Auditorium Improvement Project - Equipment - $350,000 $1,000,000 $81,675 • Mexico Beach - Beach Restoration - $25,000,000 • Apalachicola IGA Lift Station Improvement and Repair• Fort Coombs Armory Fire Sprinkler System - $250,000 • Monticello Water Losses Water Conservation - Project - $50,000 • Franklin County New Emergency Operations Center - $150,000 • Panama City Beach Fire Training Tower - $608,536 • Panama City Kings Bayou/Pretty Bayou Sewer and Goodman hopes his book will encourage Water System Expansion Phase II - $3,000,000 • Panama City Millville Wastewater Treatment Plant Relocation Assessment - $1,500,000 people to write down their family stories • Panama City Remove and Relocate Sanitary Sewer Line from St. Andrews Bay - $3,250,000 FOREST CAPITAL well as World Warcoast. II. a fellowship at Tulane • St. Marks Water System Improvements - $202,960 Continued from page 1 The county’s journey“There’s a clear University. • Tallahassee Wastewater System Resiliency Pump to becoming the Forest beginning, middle and end. “I lived in New Orleans Capital of the South is Other counties around us for six years total, and it Station 12 Replacement - $750,000 industries. • Taylor County Courthouse Improvement Project - It delves into period of detailed, and the book endshave wonderful histories was the time of my life,”$606,000 Florida’s development with the “Storm of theof their own written, butGoodman said. • Taylor County School District Safe and Secure Schools “boom” and the Century,” impact which of forever Taylor County didn’t He finished his doctorateElectronic Key Card System - $350,000 the Great Depression,changed as Taylor County’s have its own book. W.T.in 2017, and once that was done, “all of a sudden it • Taylor County Sports Complex Softball Field - $424,000 Cash’s book is a wonderful • Transitional Living Housing For Homeless Youth - collection of historical freed up a ton of time.” stories and information, but $1,000,000 Goodman used that time to • Wakulla County Emergency Operations Center - it wasn’t a complete look at complete a few chapters of$6,000,000 the county’s history from his book. He returned to the project • Washington Complex Community Center ADA the beginning,” Goodman Compliant Restrooms - $150,000 said. in earnest in 2018, writing • Women’s Dorm at Calhoun County Jail - $2,000,000. The idea of capturing in between his full-time job Taylor County’s history with the state archives. in a book first came “Itto became an evening Goodman while he was and weekend project. I pursuing his master’s wanted to be sure to touch degree at Florida State on all the important stuff University (FSU), and he and capture all of the soon began collecting data. different characters in the However, the project county without the story was put on the back burnergetting too bogged down,” when Goodman realized he said. that he needed to continue His hope for the book, he his education further and said, “is that it reenergizes began pursuing his PhD in and encourages folks to history. start writing down what That pursuit took him they know, their family to New Orleans, La., and stories and histories.”

The idea of capturing Taylor County’s history in a book first came to Josh Goodman while he was pursuing his master’s degree at Florida State University.

Religion A-4 Taco Times February 17, 2021 Obituaries

Sidney Nathaniel of Spring Warrior Church of Christ in Perry. FOOD Attaway He farmed most of his Sidney Nathaniel life, raising hogs, cows Attaway, 86, passed and chickens, but also away on Feb. 13, 2021, in owned and operated several Tallahassee. businesses as well. Sidney was born March He was a bulldozer PANTRY 26, 1934, in Perry to operator, operated the Bay/ Clifford Boswell Attaway Chevron/Standard Oil and Annie Louise Falany filling stations, ranLewis Marion a saw Attaway. mill and drove a school ‘L.M.’ Cruce Sr. announcements Sidney honorably served bus. his country He was an active member L.M. worked as the dairy in the United of the community, serving manager with Winn Dixie States Air Force as a town council member, for 47 years. The distribution is limited to one box per during the Korean War. school board member, Many will remember Food pantry open Thursday family while supplies last. Mr. Attaway was of the county commissioner, L.M. as a humble and soft- The St. James Episcopal Church Food The church is located at 828 West Julia Methodist faith and was a youth baseball coach and spoken man. Pantry will be open for a second time Street. member of Grace United playing the guitar and His wife, Bessie, was the this month in order to serve more people Methodist Church. singing in “The Pickers” love of his life; he loved experiencing food needs. Food pantry canceled Sidney will fondly be band. his children and cherished The pantry will be open this Thursday, Volunteers with the First United remembered for owning In his spare time, he his grandchildren, and was Feb. 18, from 10-11 a.m. and operating Sid’s Food Methodist Church Food Pantry have enjoyed fishing andthe best big brother anyone announced that the drive-thru food Store in downtown Perry, spending time with could ask for. Food box giveaway Saturday distribution planned this Saturday, Feb. and for owning and running his family. He will be In his spare time, he First Assembly of God will be 20, has been canceled due to other the Perry Motor Lodge. He remembered by his children enjoyed gardening and was a member of the Perry distributing food boxes Saturday, Feb. 20, food giveaways planned within the as a wonderful father and a fishing with his grandsons. starting at 9 a.m. community. Masonic Lodge #123. In his great man. He drew strength from spare time, Sidney liked to Ray was preceded in being a faithful servant of fish. The role that he most death by his parents, Gus our Lord Jesus Christ, and cherished was being there and Mae Buchanan, and was an example not only Glad TidinGs for, and being with, his his wife of 59 years, Louise to his family, but others family. Buchanan. who knew him on how a In the Bible, “glad tidings” is frequently translated to mean “to tell good news” and Sidney was preceded He is survived by: two Christian should be. “preach the gospel.” This space -- made available to all local pastors and church leaders in death by his parents, daughters, Milly Markle, of L.M. was preceded in -- is dedicated to messages of good news to fill readers with uplifting thoughts to carry Clifford and Annie Attaway. Perry, and Tammy Tucker, death by his parents, J.D. with them throughout the week. Mr. Attaway is survived and husband, Randall, and Christine Cruce. by: his loving wife of of Lake City; three sons, L.M. is survived by: his 47 years, Wilda Ann Jesse Dorsey, and wife, loving wife of 62 years Attaway; his children, Angie, of Charleston, Mrs. Bessie Mae Cruce; Your faith is about Jayce Henry (Julie) Holley S.C., Tommy Dorsey, and his children, Angie Wilson and Cherie Holley (Mark) wife, Diane, of Mayo, and (Paul) and Lewis Cruce LaValle; sisters, Joyce Heath Buchanan, of Mayo; Jr. (Dianne); his siblings, Attaway Arnold and Anne one sister, Liza Black, of J.W. Cruce (Derry), Reba to be tested Attaway McCutcheon; five Williston; and a brother, Rogers (Freddie), Jerry grandchildren, Cecilia, Buddy Buchanan, and wife, Cruce (Mary) and Richard Jayce, Jordan, Connor and Stella, of Mayo; as well as Cruce (Carol); and four Refrain from anger and view. Bradley; a niece, Belana a host of grandchildren, grandchildren, Alyssa turn from wrath; do not In reality they were Colquitt; and a nephew, great-grandchildren, nieces, Wilson, Dakota Cruce, fret – it leads only to evil. putting to death the Son Sean Jackson. nephews, other relatives David Cruce and Logan (Psalms 37:8) of the Most High God! An Private graveside services and friends. Cruce; as well as a host of In these days in which unspeakably foolish thing were held on Monday, Feb. Funeral services were nieces and nephews. we are living, Psalm 37 is to incur the wrath of the 15, at Woodlawn Cemetery. held at 11 a.m. on Monday, Funeral services were a very good psalm to read maker of all things. All arrangements are Feb. 15, at Burns Funeral held on Monday, Feb. 15, over and over again. And so, as these leaders under the direction of Burns Home of Mayo with Brother at 11 a.m. at Burns Funeral I have to be honest take over and begin to Funeral Home of Perry. John Zelner and Brother Home of Perry with Pastor with you, if you are a true impose their platforms and Bobby Hall and Pastor (850) 584-4149 Eric Russell officiating. follower of Christ, your agendas on our country, Interment services followed Jesse Benefield officiating. faith is about to be tested. trickling down into our 1400 N. Johnson Stripling Rd. in Northside Church of Interment services followed The civil authorities homes and churches, be Perry, FL 32347 Christ Cemetery. in Hendry Cemetery. The that are now in control By mindful, they need our All arrangements are family received friends in America stand in full Cody McNeese prayers. under the care of Burns from 4-6 p.m. on Sunday, support of almost every No matter how you may Funeral Home of Mayo. Feb. 14, at Burns Funeral immoral precept that the feel about them, they are Friends may send Home of Perry. church is called upon in the God Himself. loved by God, just as we condolences to the All arrangements are Bible to stand against. One of the most fearful are. family at www. under the direction of And, this body of things to run across in the The Lord is long- joepburnsfuneralhomes. Burns Funeral Home of leadership now holds the wild is a bear cub. Not suffering toward us, “not com. Perry. Friends may sign the power to make laws and because of the cub, of willing that any should online guest book at www. set boundaries that could course, but because of its perish, but that all should (850) 584-4149 joepburnsfuneralhomes. even censor and restrict mother. come to repentance.” 2 com. the preaching of God’s To harass the cub is to Peter 3:9 Allen Ray Buchanan 1400 N. Johnson Stripling Rd. Perry, FL 32347 Word publicly -- or at least incur the wrath of the one Pray that truth would (850) 584-4149 attempt to do so. who truly has the power. abound in their hearts Allen Ray 1400 N. Johnson Stripling Rd. As the body of Christ, Only a fool would do and that they would see Buchanan Lewis Marion Perry, FL 32347 we have to remain focused such a thing! God as they should. That Allen Ray Buchanan, ‘L.M.’ Cruce Sr. today more than ever. Civil These wicked schemers they too would fall before 87, of Mayo passed away William Loren leaders come and go. Even only seem to see the church, the true Christ and be on Feb. 9, 2021, at the Lewis Marion “L.M.” Strait nations rise and fall away. but have lost sight of the saved. Its never too late Suwannee Emergency Cruce Sr., 82, met his Lord William Loren Strait, 54, The wicked have awful and fearsome God for America…so long as Center in Live Oak. and Savior on Feb. 11, passed away on Feb. 12, always plotted against the who stands in the midst of the church is praying and Ray was born Aug. 8, 2021, in Tallahassee. 2021, in Tallahassee. righteous. This is nothing the church. remaining true to its call. 1933, in Mayo to Allen L.M. was born June 26, William was born Feb. new to God. Instead of being angry Read Psalm 37 carefully Augustus Buchanan and 1938, in Shady Grove to 24, 1966, in Eau Gallie, We see this in the very and anxious, what we and let that truth sink deep Osie Mae Turlington J.D. Cruce and Christine Fla., to William Strait and first of the seeds of men inreally need to be doing is into your spirit. Buchanan. Watson Cruce. Edith Jacobs McDonald. Cain and Abel. The wicked praying for them. Just as Anger and worry only He served Mr. Cruce was a Baptist Will was a Christian, hate the righteous and Jesus prayed in Luke 23:34 leads to evil. Rest assured in the United and member of Shady and was presently working always have. They have for the men who crucified that our Lord is watching States Army, Grove Missionary Baptist for Perez Construction as a always busied themselves Him, we should pray for the over us with a ready reaching the rank of Church, where he served truck driver/carpenter. He making schemes to carry Father to forgive them, for sword. corporal. as a deacon, Sunday school loved the outdoors, hunting out against the church. they know not what they And if God be for us, Ray was of the Church of director and headed the and fishing, and especially But the thing to do! who can be against us?! Christ faith and a member maintenance department. hog hunting, which was remember is that these They thought they were one of his many favorites. schemes and wicked plots executing a man whom they Cody McNeese serves as He had a passion to fix and are truly not against the deemed as weak. A man pastor of St. Johns Christian do anything he set his mind people of God, but against who threatened their world Fellowship. to. William was preceded in death by his brother, Ted Escoe. Will is survived by: his mother, Edith McDonald; his brother, Noah Strait; his sister, Penny Nasworthy; three children, William Strait, Derick Tombros and Kayla Spring; his partner for three years, Jennifer; and six grandchildren, Rhylan, Slate, Hayden, Ella, Haydon and Amelia; as well as a host of nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles. Graveside services were held on Tuesday, Feb. 16, at 3 p.m. at Woodlawn Cemetery with Percy Jacobs officiating. All arrangements are under the direction of Burns Funeral Home of Perry.

(850) 584-4149

1400 N. Johnson Stripling Rd. Perry, FL 32347

Sports A-5 Taco Times February 17, 2021 ‘Dogs’ season ends with loss to Hamilton

The Taylor County High Florence also recorded go along with 99 rebounds School (TCHS) boys’ 107 rebounds and 17 assists. and 23 assists. basketball team finishedKevis Thomas led Taylor Ajari’ Harris scored 76 their regular season with a County in rebounds, as he points this season to go 10-7 record before losing in snagged 131 throughout the along with 45 rebounds and the semifinals of the district season. 27 assists, while Javeion tournament to Hamilton Thomas also led the Harris chipped in 73 points, County, 74-48. Bulldogs in assists this 32 assists and 27 rebounds. The Bulldogs were season, as he managed to The Bulldogs were a named the #2 seed in the rack up 72. very young squad this district, which earned them Thomas averaged 12 season and should only a bye in the first round points per game and scored lose two graduating seniors of the tournament before 183 points during the in Delyanute Brooks and losing in the semifinals to regular season. Cecil Cobb. Hamilton County. Tyrese Thompson led the Brooks managed to The Bulldogs were led team in blocks this season record 42 points, 24 this season by Jayden with 16, while managing to rebounds and 21 assists in Florence, who scored 289 force 15 steals as well. his senior season, while points, for an average of Thompson scored 125 Cobb recorded 56 points, just over 18 points per points for the Bulldogs 39 rebounds and 14 game. during the regular season to assists. Lady Bulldogs defeat Lions, 8-4 in first game of Classic

The Taylor County High dominated Leon County defeating the Lady Lions School (TCHS) Lady in their opening game of 8-4 in three long innings. Bulldogs’ softball team the Florida High Classic, TCHS faced off against Leon County this past Thursday as the opening game in the Florida High Classic hosted by Florida High in Tallahassee. The season-opening tournament also featured teams from: Chiles,TCHS Bulldog Kevis Thomas secures a rebound during recent action. For Lincoln, North Baythe season, Haven Thomas led Taylor County in rebounds, as he snagged 131 Academy, Madison throughoutCounty the season. He also led the Bulldogs in assists this season, and Aucilla Christianas he managed to rack up 72. Thomas averaged 12 points per game and Academy. scored 183 points during the regular season. (Photo by Amy Sadler) Taylor’s game against Leon County was called in the bottom of the third inning due to the time limit being reached. Help Us Over a Hurdle Trista Knowles started on the mound for the Lady Make a donation to the TCHS and TCMS Track Bulldogs and threw 40 pitches in two innings while Programs to help us clear a $1,500 hurdle for limiting Leon to only two hits and three runs. the 2021 season! Hannah Shiver pitched the final inning and recorded Your tax-deductible gift will help us cover the the save by holding Leon cost of local, state, and regional entry fees. County to only one hit and Adrianna Carter winds up to deliver a pitch one run while recording a Checks or money orders can be made payable to: during softball action last season. (Photo by Amy Sadler) ➟ Please see page 9 Taylor County Boys or Girls Track Program. Mail financial donations to:Taylor County Middle School, Attn: Sherman Rhines, 601 E. Lafayette TCHS baseball team beats Street, Perry, Fla., 32347. Fort White to open season

The Taylor County High Fort White battled back toand only allowing one hit. School (TCHS) varsity make it a close ball game “He was very dominant baseball team edged out the before Taylor County held and looked good in his first Fort White Indians, 7-6 in on for the one-run win. start on the mound,” Head the season-opener for both Garrett Mullins started Coach Reggie Wentworth teams this past Thursday on the mound for the stated. night in Perry. Bulldogs and held the Clint Terrel was the only The Bulldogs led the Indians scoreless through Bulldog player to get two Indians by seven runs (7-0) the first two innings, while ➟ Please see page 9 early in the matchup, but recording four strikeouts TCHS, TCHS track teams begin seasons against Wakulla County Coach Sherman Rhines Results from the openingUpshaw, Dewayne Flowers, and the Taylor County Highmeet against Wakulla Deandre Flowers, Montray School (TCHS) and TaylorCounty were not available➟ Please see page 9 County Middle Schoolas of press time. (TCMS) track and fieldThe TCMS track and teams began their season field teams will feature 19 yesterday (Tuesday) against athletes, including: Austin Wakulla County Woodruff, Jakobe Faulk, CJ For TCMS, this is the Ellis, Fischer Smith, Andrew school’s first-ever track andWebb, Journey Williams, field team. Preston Denmark, Kamen A-6 Taco Times February 17, 2021 Prepare to begin dialing 850 or 448 Taylor Countians will the existing 850 area code, of the telephone prefixes but all new customers or “Florida’s 850 area a continuing supply of soon begin to see a new including Taylor County. within that area code are new phone lines throughout code is running out of numbers,” Graham said 448 area code popping up “Florida’s 850 area assigned. Prefixes follow the region will be assigned telephone numbers, so this in a statement after the on their caller ID, as the code is running out of the area code and are the the new 448 area code. plan is needed to ensure commission vote. regional 850 code that has telephone numbers, first three numbers of a As the area codes will long been synonymous so this plan is needed customer’s local phone be different, all local with the Big Bend region to ensure a continuing number. calls in the region will nears exhaustion. supply of numbers,” In September of 2020, require 10-digit dialing The Florida Public said PSC Chairman Art the NANPA, a neutral once the overlay is fully Service Commission Graham. “Now, the North third-party that oversees implemented. The overlay (PSC) approved a new American Numbering Plan telephone numbering has a projected life of 37 area code on Nov. 5 that is Administrator (NANPA) across the U.S. and other years. scheduled to be introduced can begin processing the countries, proposed Florida counties that to the Florida Panhandle new area code for efficientcreating an additional area will be affected by the Saturday, Feb. 20. implementation in 2021.” code using what is known new area code include: The new 448 area code is With new phone numbers The current 850 area as an “all-services overlay.” Bay, Calhoun, Escambia, expected to begin popping up in high demand in North code is expected to run The all-services overlay Franklin, Gadsden, Gulf, on caller IDs as early as Feb. 20, Florida, the PSC approved out of numbers in 2022, will only affect new Holmes, Jackson, Jefferson, requiring that all local calls include an area code overlay that according to a PSC staff numbers, as existing Leon, Liberty, Madison, 10-digit dialing (850 or 448) once will add a new 448 area analysis. customers will keep their Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, the overlay is fully implemented. code to the 18 Florida An area code reaches current telephone numbers, Taylor, Wakulla, Walton counties now served by exhaustion when nearly all including the 850 area code, and Washington counties.

Community A-7 Taco Times February 17, 2021

Take care of your heart & know your risk factors American Heart Month risk for heart disease if you try to avoid the risk of heart Livestock lessons isn’t just for celebrating have: disease, there are a few love -- February also 1. High blood pressure. things you can do. 4-H Livestock Club members Noah Aman, reminds us to take care of There are millions of people Don’t smoke, and if Natalie Smith and Christopher Amador our heart and consider our in the United States who you’re already a smoker, shared information about their swine and risk factors. have high blood pressure, do your best to quit. Seek steer projects during last week’s meeting Believe it or not, heart and millions of them are as out resources to help quit. of the Perry Kiwanis Club. Amador said his disease can happen at any young as in their 40s and Reach out to the local health project has taught him “how to become a age. 50s. If you are one of them, department for smoking good businessman through keeping records Some risk factors for make sure to have it under cessation programs and of expenditures,” while Smith related that heart disease and stroke are control. resources. she has learned about the difference in feed preventable. 2. High cholesterol, The next step you can selection, adding that her hog is “strictly American Heart Month diabetes and obesity are take is managing any eating non-genetically modified feed.” Aman teaches us the ways we can all conditions that can conditions you may have educated the group on the difference in a help reduce our risks while increase your risk for heart such as high blood pressure feeder steer and fat steer, as well as why eliminating those we have disease. If you fall into this and cholesterol. Take your some hogs can struggle to make weight. control over. category, work on eating medication as prescribed by By 4-H Agent Abbey Tharpe introduced each Do you have one of healthy and getting some your doctor. LORI WIGGINS participant and gave club members the these risk factors for physical activity in a few Next, make heart-healthy Taylor County agenda for this week’s annual livestock show cardiovascular disease? times a week, at minimum. diet decisions. Eat whole Extension Director, and sale in Madison. Shown are (left to right) Agent III Obesity, physical 3. Smoking cigarettes. foods that are low in trans- Aman, Tharpe, Smith and Amador. inactivity, high blood Over 35 million adults in fat, saturated fat, sodium, pressure, cigarette smoking, America are smokers and and added sugar. A good least 20 minutes of physical high cholesterol or diabetes. thousands of young people rule of thumb is to fill halfactivity, 4-5 days a week, Now is the time to learn are picking up the habit your plate with fruits and then build from there. For more about the risks and daily. If you’re a smoker, vegetables. additional information and how to prevent heart disease do your best to quit or cut Finally, get moving! resources on preventing and stroke. down. It’s what’s best for Living a sedentary lifestyle heart disease go to https:// Here are a few signs the your health. will put you at a much www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/ CDC (Center for Disease So, if you want to stay greater risk for heart american_heart_month. Control) says you may be at on top of your health and disease. Try to get in at htm. These shoes were made for

WALKING TCHS students participating in a community- based work project operate a thrift store located at 604 West Julia St. By LORI WIGGINS on heart health by adopting program, you will receive lifestyle become lifetime Taylor County Extension a healthier lifestyle to weekly eGuides, engage in habits. Director prevent heart disease. weekly eConnections with Even though the title February is American If you started 2021 a local health educator and of the program is “Let’s Heart Month. with New Year goals of other residents from your Walk,” participants are Looking for This year, it is more improving your health and county, and track and report encouraged to track and important than ever to focus well-being, but have had your physical activity report any moderate trouble getting started or minutes. intensity cardiovascular sticking with it, you are not This virtual community activity. alone. provides the education, Top performers will also a bargain? Research shows that support and accountability compete for gift cards and joining others who have needed to improve your other prizes at the county or Looking for a bargain? 604 West Julia Street. similar intentions helps us health. state level. The Bulldog Educational Students receive to be more successful at What can you do for Participants who Enterprise has got you donations from the meeting our personal health your health in 30 minutes a complete the program will covered! community, organize these goals. day? receive a certificate and Taylor County High donations and host yard If you are ready to make When coupled with medal. Program registration School (TCHS) students sales. healthier lifestyle choices healthy eating, meeting is $15. are participating in a “This program has and are interested in joining physical activity This program is open to community-based work multiple goals. One is a local community of like- recommendations for individuals, families and experience by operating to teach students that minded individuals, then your age and activity organized teams. the Bulldog Educational community service join us for “Let’s Walk, level promotes mental and For more information Enterprise, a second-hand is vital to community Florida,” beginning March physical wellness, weight about this program and to thrift store stocked entirely survival. Another is to Even though the title 15! management, and chronic register, visit www.tiny. by donations from the have the students develop of the program is “Let’s “Let’s Walk, Florida!” is disease prevention and one/walkfl. community. interpersonal skills, along Walk,” participants a statewide, virtual healthy management. You may also contact the The doors to the with ‘soft skills’ that are encouraged to lifestyle education program The goal of “Let’s Walk, Taylor County Extension thrift shop are open on will help them transition track and report any and physical activity Florida” is to build a Office at (850) 838-3508Wednesdays and Fridays, into more independent, moderate intensity challenge. community where healthy or e-mail [email protected] 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. successful adult living,” cardiovascular activity. During this 10-week eating and an active for additional information. The shop is located at organizers said. Nominations sought for WEDDING Educators’ Hall of Fame ANNOUNCEMENTS Nominations are Forms are available on March 26, at noon. currently being accepted for the district website at www. Nomination forms are the Taylor County School taylor.k12.fl.us. also available at the district A time-honored community tradition! District’s Educators’ Hall The deadline for office, located on Clark Share the news of your new beginning with of Fame. nominations is Friday, Street. our keepsake print announcements. Live in the city? Don’t do laundry on these days... The City of Perry Water Flushing of these announcement stated. “You To place your FREE wedding or Division, in conjunction hydrants began Feb. 2 and may experience slight with the City Fire continues each Tuesday, pressure fluctuation and engagement announcement, call Department, will be flushingWednesday and Thursday discoloration of the water. fire hydrants throughoutfrom the7 a.m. through 3 p.m. These inconveniences city and county during the “It would be advisable are only temporary and (850) 584-5513 or go online to months of February, March not to do any laundry on should clear up within (24) www.perrynewspapers.com. and April. these days,” a City of Perry hours.” Local news available 24/7: www.perrynewspapers.com

Editorial A-8 Taco Times February 17, 2021 Overall Common’tater By Billy Blackman

Author’s Note: This kind’a smelled like one, too. jumper cables. herself any more. Life story is fiction....or is it?At least they still had But even with her had never been a bouquet As a passerby, If youa roofeven over their heads. pride choked down, she of flowers. But lately it noticed their house fromThough it did leak so bad still looked around while seemed that life’s kudzu had the highway, you’d havethat on a rain days you’d be waiting in that line, hoping overtaken what few flowers hard time telling just hard how pressed to find a pot not to see anyone she knew she had left. She needed the poor the family actuallyto boil an egg in because looking around to see if they help now! Especially since was because of the anything vines. that would hold saw anyone they knew. It’s a she was laid off from her And you’d probably saywater to was being used as pride thing. good-tipping waitress job yourself, “I would a never catch basin. Maybe that “It’s really an answer to when “Hog Heaven Bar-b- live like that!” would keep the puddles prayer,” she said to herself CUE” was forced to close, And the kudzu hid from the rotting the already- while watching the food a victim of the sickening worst of it: the rottin’rotting half floor. being loaded into the car entanglement after the of the house, the tire-lessSometimes the different trunks ahead of her. owner caught “The Rona,” cars on blocks, the dreamstones of the water dripping free groceries. It was sort as thick as the kudzu back Then she shook her head as some locals call it. of a better life starvedinto different of size pans of a modern mobile soup home, so thick that “food at life’s ironies that seem to There was one pool table sunlight because of all would that almost sound like line. There they’d idle the insecurity” could jump from come to mind at the oddest inside, so they thought choking entanglement. blusey music -- if you were morning away, some cars hood to hood for half a day times. “Never say never,” emphasizing “CUE” in The grandpa, his grownin the right state of mind smoking like the drivers, and its feet never touch the she mumbled under her the name was clever. But daughter, her husbandand living in the wrong some not. ground. breath as she thought back if customers ever made and their two kids circumstances. lived On those Tuesdays, you She hated having to tell to several months ago when the connection, they never there -- or maybe “existedFor the past several will see everything in that grandpa a white lie. But she she passed by the church on mentioned it. “It don’t there” would be a months better the family had been line from old Mazda trucks knew he would refuse to eat her way to work and saw the matter no more!” the owner description. His sorry surviving son- on the bounty of to almost new Mercedes the food if he thought of it long line of cars. “I would said. To him, life was now in-law was off gallivant’nthe county, along with some sedans with the trunk lids as a handout. It’s a pride never sit in a line like that!” a double negative: he was again. But, then again,new hehelp from the state and open wide. They looked like thing. she said to herself then. And, sick, and he’d lost his might have been underlocal the churches’ “feed the the mouths of bird babies But it’s hard to sop syrup look at her now. “Never say business! kudzu, passed out! hungry” programs, such as waiting for something to be with pride! So she told him never,” she muttered again. No, her difficult decision When grandpa would“Farm Share” and “Second shoved in. she needed the truck jumped But, that was months ago. today will be whether or walk out to the roadHarvest.” to get She’s thankful though. off so she could go to the The reality of the situation is not there’s enough gas in the mail, he’d lean onBecause a of the pandemic Thankful that grandpa could grocery store. Everybody’s here today, Tuesday. So she the truck to leave it running stick out near the mailboxand the entanglement of find the jumper cables under got to eat -- even an overly waits.... with the heater going while and say to anyone willinglockdowns to and school all that kudzu this morning. proud “pinepa” who smelled Well, a least her hardest she waits in this cold reality. listen, “Shoot, the kudzu’sclosings with their free That way he could use the a lot like a pine stump. decision today won’t be Or, should she switch off the so thick at the houselunch thatprograms, the children tractor and jumpstart the This is not her first trip whether or not to use the last engine to save gas and hope a dog can walk were around no longer considered truck. Then, she could go “to the store.” So if it takes of the flour tonight to make the battery works when it the yard for half a theday “halfand starved.” They and get in line at the church an ongoing white lie to fill biscuits so her family can comes time to inch a little his feet’ll never touch now the suffered from what the where several angels were the dark emptiness, then eat their fill one more time. closer to that angel ahead, ground.” government called “food out front loading sacks of so be it. Sometimes you For right now, the church the one wearing the orange That was a stretch. But not insecurity.” food into truck beds and have to swallow your pride volunteers will take care of vest and blue mask, the one by much. It was April and But, a growling stomach lifted lids. and chase it with a spark that worry with two bags of holding that bouquet of things grow fast and thick in is a growling stomach! She had to get there early, of hope that comes from “White Lily” per household. lilies -- one “Self Rising” the spring, especially kudzu. You really don’t care what or else the vehicles would be the strangest things -- like She just can’t do it by and the other “Plain.” The grandkids giggled they call you, as long behind his back and called as someone calls you if him “pinepa” instead of the church giveaway day grandpa because he smelled changes from a Tuesday to like a pine stump. He treated some other day. his arthritic knuckles by People line up in their rubbing them down with cars along the road leading turpentine. He was as tough to the church on that day to as a twice-fried 2x4! And pick up a week’s worth of Letters to the Editor Time to review county mud bog regulations

Dear Editor: hotels. It is a shame that three The county ordinance or less people can stop allowing a single neighbor Shown above are: front row, Youth Leader Nicole Thompson, Courtney Stratten, Addison Conger, something that brings to shut down special events Madison Calkin, Carson Ross and Youth Leader Larry Thompson; and back row, Declan Hurst, Leah millions of dollars in like this one is 17 years old Hurst, Noah Hurst, Cole Stratten, Oasis Pastors Marion and Jim Hurst. revenue to Taylor County and needs to be reviewed. businesses each year. Our county It does not seem fair or commissioners really need right that a single neighbor to step back and think of A Valentine weekend of love can prevent the owners of all the consequences before Iron Horse Mud Ranch making a decision on an By DELORES LEGGETT WALKER and Cole Stratten -- loaded up and personally delivered from holding one or two ordinance such as this one Some folks teach by lecturing, while others teach by food to those individuals. events per year. that affects so many. example. But, that’s not where the weekend of love ended. I am sure there are I have never attended a Such is the case with Branford Oasis Church Youth The youth and their leaders had also planned a “Thank neighboring property mud bog at Iron Horse and Leaders Larry and Nicole Thompson of Mayo, who You” luncheon at Oasis Church on Sunday, Feb. 14 owners who may object to honestly do not have a dog decided to give their youth “hands-on” experience learning following the morning service. the BBQ, Bluegrass, Fiddler in this fight. that love is more than flowers, chocolate candy and fancy Once again the teens crawled out of bed around 6:30 Crab or Florida Forest But, as a local business words. a.m. to make sure everything was prepared and waiting for festivals held in Perry and owner, this type of The Valentine’s “weekend of love” kicked off Friday folks to enjoy a lasagna and salad lunch with strawberry Steinhatchee each year, but ordinance just does not afternoon when the group arrived at a local food distribution shortcake dessert. they are not allowed to shut make good business sense center in Mayo to help unload items that had been picked The youth served up food with a smile and cleaned up the these events down. for Taylor County. up at the food bank in Gainesville. dishes afterward with the same sweet spirit, showing their To see the kind of This is the sort of thing They arose early the next morning at 6:30 a.m. to return appreciation and love to those they served. They provided impact these events have that keeps other business to the food distribution site and help give out food to several entertainment and door prizes to make the rainy day event on our local economy, you owners from locating hundred people who came through the drive-through area. a sunny memory that will likely linger with all who were only have to drive around their companies in Taylor It was a real eye-opener to some of the young people – there. our town and see the County. ranging in age from 12 to 18 – many who never realized As one of those who were privileged to enjoy the parking lots packed full of A lot changes in 17 years. there are some who need a helping hand to put food on luncheon, I must say I believe this opportunity for the youth vehicles at Walmart, Winn- Maybe it is time this their table. group to show their love to so many will be a memory that Dixie, local restaurants, ordinance is changed too. Due to the rain, some of the older folks were unable to could help guide their path into a form of serving others in gas stations, motels and Benjye Tuten come out, so two of the teens lending a hand – Declan Hurst some capacity during their lifetimes. Nicole Thompson said the weekend ended on another positive note, as some of the same youth responded to a call for help from a Mayo resident who had suffered an accident and needed a ramp for her wheelchair. The youth helped Larry Thompson install the ramp, rounding out the weekend of “loving by example” as Wednesday, February 17, 2021 illustrated by their youth leaders. The youth group, which includes: Declan Hurst, Noah Hurst, Leah Thompson, Cole Stratton, Courtney Stratton, Carson Ross, Raylin Lee, Madison Calkin, Addison Conger, Tara Sloan, John Sloan, Colin Hodge and Ryan Conger, meet each Wednesday night at Branford Oasis Church in Lafayette County on NE US Highway 27 at 6:30 p.m.

The youth and their leaders held a “Thank You” luncheon at Branford Oasis Church in Mayo on Sunday, Feb. 14, following the morning service. A-9 Taco Times February 17, 2021 FINANCIAL FOCUS How Can Women Overcome Obstacles to Financial Security? On March 8, we financial toll: The pandemic: Just If you aare still start taking Social income. Perhaps you observe International lost wages, pensions few months ago, in working and your Security benefitscan work part time or Women’s Day, a December, women employer offerswhen a you’re 62, but do some consulting. celebration of the lost 156,000 jobs, 401(k) or similar your monthly checks And if you’re a social, economic, while men gained retirement plan, take will be much larger caregiver, you might cultural and political 16,000, according full advantage of if you wait until your be able to receive achievements of to the Bureau it. “full” retirement age, some compensation women. of Labor Statis- Put in as much as which will likely be for your work. Many Of course, women tics, which also you can afford each between 66 and local governments still tend to encounter reported that women year and increase 67. pay non-spouse more obstacles than accounted for 54% your contributions You might also caregivers who act as men in the pursuit of the jobs lost from when your salary consider whether personal attendants, of financial security. the pandemic in goes up. you’d be betteralthough off the rules Let’s consider a few 2020. Also, within your by taking spousal vary greatly by state of them. By And women are plan, you’ll want benefits, if you’reand county. To begin with, Cory Taylor not unaware of their to choose the mix married and your These certainly women are still circumstances and of investments that spouse earned aren’t the only ways more likely to leave (including 401(k)s outlook. Just 41% canof help provide more money than you can improve the workforce, at and similar plans) women are confidentthe most growth you. your financial status, least temporarily, and Social Security about retirement, potential, given You’re generally but they may prove to raise children, benefits that compared a with 56% your individual risk even eligible for useful to you. In any resulting in lower woman loses to of men, according to tolerance. spousal benefitscase, if be aware of the contributions to become a full-time a survey by Edward Also, even if you you are divorced, challenges facing employer-sponsored caregiver amount to Jones and Age contribute to a 401(k) as long as you were you and do whatever retirement plans more than $300,000 Wave. or similar plan, you married at least 10 you can to brighten such as 401(k)s. over her lifetime, But if you’re a may also be eligible years and you haven’t your future. And women are according to the woman, you can to fund an IRA, remarried. often the ones who National Academy of take steps to help which gives you even This article was Look for written by Edward become full-time Sciences. improve your more investment unexpected income Jones for use by caregivers of aging Women also may choices. financial outlook. opportunities. local Edward Jones parents or other be more susceptible Here are a few Evaluate your Even after you’ve Financial Advisor relatives. to financial suggestions: Social Security formally retired, you Cory Taylor, who can Caregiving duties downturns. Consider Take full advantage options be reached by calling can exact a big the COVID-19 may still find ways to of retirement plans You can typically receive some earned (850) 223-0999 As well as Dekle Beach Lady Bulldog Trista Knowles (shown in action during a game last season) started Additional dredging projects on the mound for the Lady Bulldogs in their win against the set for Dark and Cedar Island Lions, throwing 40 pitches in two innings $4,076,136 in RESTORE contribute some engineering DREDGING while limiting Leon Act funds spread out over and other in-kind services to Continued from page 3 to only two hits and 15 years (approximately help offset the $1.1 million three runs. She also This county match $271,742 per year), while difference between the managed to cross represents about 1% of the the county will provide RESTORE Act funding and home plate twice in total project cost. $674,764 in matching funds the projected total cost. the 8-4 victory over A 2016 engineering for a total of $4,750,900. After Keaton and Leon County. estimate projected the canal County Grants Writer Steinhatchee projects, the dredging projects would cost Melody Cox said the commission-approved an estimated $5.9 million. county would secure a priority list includes canals Cox said in 2018 that the spoil site, perform hauling at Dark Island, Cedar Island Lady Bulldogs travel to Jasper county expects to receive of the dredge material and and Dekle Beach. SOFTBALL and one run scored in just weather conditions. Continued from page 5 three innings. Taylor County began Shoaff, Shiver, Durham their regular season strikeout. and Dean all scored once Tuesday against Aucilla, Taylor County had seven each, while Knowles but results were not hits in the victory over managed to cross home available as of press time. Leon County, as Rebecca plate twice in the victory The Lady Bulldogs Shoaff, Trista Knowles, over Leon County. will travel to Jasper this Hannah Shiver, Hayden The Lady Bulldogs’ Thursday to face off against Durham and Macy Dean second game of the Florida Hamilton County at 7 p.m. each recorded one hit. High Classic against before hosting their first Adrianna Carter led the Aucilla Christian Academy home game this Friday Bulldogs at the plate, going on Saturday morning was night against the Chiefland a perfect 2-2 with an RBI cancelled due to nasty Indians beginning at 7 p.m. ‘Dogs play Blountstown Thursday BASEBALL the Indians. (Tuesday), but results were Continued from page 5 “I am excited about the not available as of press way our young guys played. time. hits in the Bulldogs’ debut, Lago, Weatherly and Wiles Taylor County will make while Evan Lago, Tucker all had hits and played the long journey west to face Wiles, Andrew Weatherly, very well defensively in Blountstown on Thursday Rhett Borklund and Mullins their first varsity games as in a game set to begin at chipped in one hit each. true freshmen,” Wentworth 6 p.m. Kadyn Puhl came in exclaimed. TCHS will start off next and closed out the game to The Bulldogs were slated week by hosting Aucilla seal the victory, as well as to travel to Tallahassee to Christian Academy on recording the save against face Florida High yesterday Tuesday beginning at 6 p.m. $1,500 fund-raising goal TRACK collected will go to pay local, Program. Continued from page 5 state and regional entry fees. Mail financial donations to By pledging your support of Attn: Mr. Sherman Rhines, Griffin, Markis Farmer, a tax-deductible gift, it will Taylor County Middle Azaria Reddick, Jayla help the program reach the School, 601 E. Lafayette Farmer, Sydney Wilson, needed $1,500 mark. Checks Street, Perry, Florida 32347. Peyton Bowden, Jha’miyah or money orders should be You will receive McIntyre, Danny Juday and made payable to the Taylor acknowledgement of your Variah Dunnell. County Boys or Girls Track donation by receipt. The TCHS track and field teams will consist of: Chelly Marguage, Chance Glanton, Najeh Glanton, Styles Williams, Camden Flowers, Calvin Washington, Charles Simmons, Aiden Samano, Jacob Wilson, Malaysia White, Hanna Webb, Skylar Brown and Macie McGuire. “The students at both the middle and high school levels are so excited,” Rhines said, “Many of you have sent well wishes and offered support, and I would like to say thank you to all of those Taco Times who have sent monetary Perry News-Herald contributions to help with the program so far,” stated Rhines. As before, the monies A-10 Taco Times February 17, 2021

CLASSIFIED ADS Published each Wednesday and Friday. Deadline for Wednesday: Monday by 5 p.m. Deadline for Friday: Wednesday by 5 p.m. Call (850) 584-5513 Classifieds or email [email protected].

MISCELLANEOUS SERVICES HELP WANTED LEGALS

WE BUY MR. ROGERS POOL COMPANY NEEDED: ADMINISTRATIVE TAYLOR COUNTY BOARD OF THE CITY OF PERRY IS ACCEPTING cancel or withdraw this solicitation at Scrap Metal and Junk Cars. (formerly Sun Pools) ASSISTANT WITH STRONG COUNTY COMMISSIONERS SEALED BIDS for concrete slab any time and waive any irregularities (850) 838-5865. • 30 years experience, WRITING AND MS OFFICE Job Vacancy Announcement. and concrete sidewalks at 918 N. in the Bid process. The County, in its • Weekly services, The job description and our Washington St. Specifications aresole and absolute discretion, reserves SKILLS. Taylor County attached. the right to waive any minor defects For Sale: Formal dining table with • Equipment sales/repair, Development Authority (TCDA) is 2-step application process can • Above and in-ground pool liner If you are interested in submitting in the process and to accept the six white high-back chairs. $300 seeking a dependable individual be found on our website at www. a bid, your bid should be marked lowest responsive and responsible changes. taylorcountygov.com or in the lobby OBO. Call (850) 838-6882. Call (850) 295-3948 with a strong work ethic for a “Sealed Bid - BGC” and sent to the Bidder. No faxed Proposals will be 2/26 full-time administrative assistant of the County Annex. Applicants attention of Ms. Katrina Duckworth, accepted. We are moving! We have quality position. This is an opportunity must apply through Career Source. Purchase Agent, 224 S. Jefferson St., BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF Taylor County is an EEO employer. Perry, Florida 32347. COUNTY COMMISSIONERS, Taylor furniture and a garage full of male JOE COXWELL WELDING LLC to learn a niche governmental Engineer - full-time. Roll- All inquiries regarding this bid County, Florida items (tools and outdoor stuff) for Welding Fabrication & Repair function which serves to bring sale! Call (850) 295-2351 after 9 job creation and expansion within off Site Attendant - call-in. invitation should be directed to Ms. Mobile Service. (850) 843-3500. Duckworth at (850)584-2189. All NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR a.m. to view. Located at 2887 Boyd the county. Must be a self-starter, Mosquito Control Driver- on call. JC Concessions Lead - part-time. bids should be received no later than PROPOSALS Road. proficient with Microsoft Office to 2 P.M., February 24, 2021. TAYLOR COUNTY JAIL DOOR include Word, Excel and Outlook, Concessions Worker - seasonal. WOLVERINE’S MOVING LLC IS Boat Ramp Attendant - seasonal. The City reserves the right to reject CONTROL PANEL REPLACEMENT FOR SALE: 2005 Phaeton by be detail-oriented and have a any and all bids. The City reserves The Taylor County Board of County SEEKING a honest, hard-working TCBCC Tiffin motor home. 40 feet. Two LABORER. Experience preferred, pleasant phone voice. Any prior the right to select the bidder that it Commissioners is soliciting sealed slides. Diesel. 350 cat motor, but not necessary. Call Lee Spees experience with web development, THE TALLAHASSEE DEMOCRAT determines is in the best interest of proposals for a new jail door control diesel generator, central vacuum. at (850) 843-0568 for pay and Facebook or Linkedin business is seeking an independent the City. Any errors in bid submissions panel replacement to be installed at 97k miles, new tires. Real good other details. pages, Google ad words, Twitter contractor for a newspaper are the responsibility of the bidder; the Taylor County Jail located at 589 condition. $45k. Call (850) 843- LS and web linkages a huge plus. If delivery route in Perry, Fla. Valid the City is not required to find errorsE US 27, Perry, Florida 32347. in any bid submissions. 3047. you are a fast learner who enjoys driver’s license and insurance Qualified firms or individuals desiring are required. Newspaper delivery CITY OF PERRY, FLORIDA to provide the required services must working in a small office and can submit the proposal packages in a FOR SALE: 1989 Ford Probe. YARD SALES stay two steps ahead of the game, is seven days a week from 2 a.m. to 6 a.m. Apply via https\\ INVITATION TO BID sealed envelope or similar package Real good condition. Motor is then please email your resume The Taylor County Board of County marked” Sealed Proposal for Taylor deliveryopportunities.gannet.com. new. Needs a starter. Runs a little and cover letter, no more than two To complete an application, select Commissioners is soliciting sealed County Jail Door Control Panel rough. $1,500 OBO. Call (850) YARD SALE Saturday, Feb. 20, pages, detailing what you believe “Florida, Tallahassee, Tallahassee proposals for construction of the Replacement’ to the Clerk of Court, 843-3047 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 411 are your strongest skills to TCDA Democrat” under “Select local Old Dixie Highway Sidewalk (LAP) 1st Floor Courthouse, 108 North Plantation Road. Home goods, at [email protected], subject newspaper.” To apply over the Project. Jefferson Street, Suite 102, Perry, home decor, men’s, women’s (1x- “Admin position.” phone, call 855-704-2104. FDOT Pre-qualified contractors Floridain 32347, to arrive no later FOR RENT 3x) and junior’s clothing, lotions 3/17 “Sidewalk” construction, desiring than 4:00 P.M., local time, on Friday, and children’s toys. to provide the required services, March 12, 2021. All proposals MUST FULL TIME LINEMAN TRAINEE must submit five (5) packageshave the respondent’s name and Tri-County Electric Cooperative has FINISHER NEEDED TAKING APPLICATIONS FOR MOVING SALE Saturday, Feb. 20, Must have High School diploma in a sealed envelope or similar mailing address clearly shown on the an opening for a full-time lineman package marked “Sealed Proposal outside of the envelope or package ONE, TWO AND THREE- and Sunday, Feb. 21, from 8 a.m. or equivalent, the ability to read trainee in our Madison office. This for Old Dixie Highway Sidewalk when submitted. Proposals will be BEDROOM APARTMENTS until at 2887 Boyd Road. Home and understand CAD sketches, as position requires working outside (LAP) Project” to the Clerk of Court, opened and respondents announced • Pet friendly decor, household items and more! well as the ability to read a tape in adverse weather conditions 1st Floor Courthouse, 108 North at 9:05 A.M. local time, or as soon • HUD considered Good prices for quality items. No measure to the 1/4th. Qualified and frequently working overtime; candidates must be able to read Jefferson Street, Suite 102, Perry, thereafter as practical, on Tuesday, Email: [email protected] junk! Florida 32347, to arrive no later March 16, 202l in the Taylor County however, it is a rewarding position and speak English, be able to Phone: (850) 584-6444 than 4:00 P.M., local time, on March Administrative Complex, Old Post with good growth opportunities and follow both written and verbal Text: (352) 232-6691 12, 2021. All Proposals MUST have Office, 201 East Green Street, Perry, HELP does not require any previous line instructions. Must possess a basic the respondent’s name and mailing Florida 32347. experience. On the job training will understanding of hand tools and WOODRIDGE APARTMENTS WANTED how to use them, as well as the address clearly shown on the outside Proposal information MUST be be provided. The co-op is looking of the envelope or package when obtained from the Taylor County Jail, Accepting applications for 1, 2 skills necessary to successfully for a candidate with a high school submitted. Proposals will be opened located at 589 E US 27, Perry, Florida and 3 BR HC and Non-HC operate a forklift and pass a forklift diploma or equivalent and solid and respondents announced at 9:05 32347. accessible apartments. HUD CIVIL AND STRUCTURAL operators test. Candidates must work history that enjoys working A.M. local time, or as soon thereafter Required Proposal information: vouchers considered. Call (850) ENGINEER-IN-TRAINING also have proficient communication in a team environment. The skills, as well as a valid driver’s as practical, on March 16, 2021, in 1. Firm Overview - Provide firm 584-5668. 709 W. Church St., We are looking for a Civil/Structural the Taylor County Administrative information including, but not candidate must also have a Class license. Interested and qualified Perry, FL 32348. TDD 711. Equal Engineer-in-Training to join the Big Complex, 201 East Green Street, limited to, Physical Address, Date Top Team. The ideal candidate A, Commercial Driver’s License, candidates must either call 850- Housing Opportunity. WA 584-7786 to make an Perry, Florida 32347. Established, Key Project Personnel, for this position should possess or be able to obtain one within six Bid information MUST be obtained Current Insurance Coverages, and a strong structural design and months of employment. appointment to fill out an ONE-BEDROOM application in person or visit on-line at the following website Ability to Provide Requested Services. architecture background. The Cooperative offers a address: www.taylorcountygov.com/ 2. Prior Related Experience - Project APARTMENT FOR RENT bigtopshelters.com/careers to fill Solid knowledge in steel, concrete, competitive salary, starting at government/county_bids/index.php Examples for last five years for which Newly remodeled. $175 per and masonry are essential out an online application. $18 an hour for this position, and A Non-Mandatory Pre-Bid Conference similar services have been provided. week, $500 security deposit. skills. Responsibilities include benefits. will be held at 10:00 a.m. on For each project, indicate (1) Project Includes water and electric. No assessment, planning, and GREENS OUTDOORS AND Tri-County is an EOE and DFWP. MORE is now accepting Wednesday, March 03, 2021, at the Name and Location, (2) Description pets. Reference and proof of execution of structural designs Administrative Complex located of Project, (3) Owner Name, Address Please send resume and applications for a cashier/clerk income are required. Call or text on a wide range of projects. at 201 East Green Street, Perry, and Contact information, (4) Cost of Majority of work will be designing completed Tri-County Employment (must be able to lift 50 lbs.) and for application. Leave a message Florida 32347. The County reserves Work and (5) Date Completed. or consulting on the installation of Application Form, which is parts counter help. Apply in person if no answer. Call (850) 843-1300 the right, in its sole and absolute Shelter projects. Travel to project available at any TCEC office or at 1969 Old Foley Road. Call 371- ➟ Please see page 11 for more information. discretion, to reject any or all Bids, to locations will be necessary. Must online at www.tcec.com, before 5395 for more information. 2/26 2/19 have experience in: March 26, 2021 to: BADCOCK HOME FURNITURE ~ Metal Truss Structures Andrew Pinkard STUDIO APARTMENT ~ Commercial AND MORE is hiring for two Tri-County Electric Cooperative, FOR RENT ~ Industrial positions: Inc. Newly remodeled. $170 per ~ Government • Full-time salesperson 2862 West US 90 week, $500 security deposit. Minimum qualifications and job • Part-time salesperson Madison, FL 32340 Drug testing/background check. Includes water and electric. No responsibilities will also include: • Designing structures to withstand 850-973-8022 Apply in person. No phone calls. pets. Reference and proof of pressures and forces which they 3/26 BF income are required. Call or text must endure, for application. Leave a message • Collaborating with other designers if no answer. Call (850) 843-1300 and/or architects as it relates to the for more information. safest designs and how they may 2/19 fit in with the aesthetic concept of the construction, • Applying expert knowledge of SERVICES forces and their impact on various structures, • Solid working knowledge in the STEVE SMITH WELDING, strength of different materials SANDBLASTING, HOME (e.g. concrete, steel, or wood) REPAIRS AND LAWN CARE. and understanding of how their No job too small. 30+ years inclusion may necessitate a experience. Quality work for a change of structural design, reasonable price. Call for a quote: • Analyzing suitable configurations (850) 838-6551 (or 6552). of the basic structural components of a building or other structure, A TO Z LAWN & • In-process inspections, as well FARM SERVICES as providing guidance/feedback Licensed and Insured to contractors. Educational Complete Lawn Services Requirements are:: Bachelor’s Tree trimming/removal, dump Degree in Engineering. Qualified truck services, harrowing, bush applications can apply online hog mowing, rake work, dirt at www.bigtopshelters.com/ leveling. Call (850) 838-5996 or careers, or in person at Big Top (850) 584-7972. Manufacturing, Inc. 3255 N US AZ 19, Perry, Florida (by appointment only). EEO/AA/m/f/vets/disabled. BT BAD WATER? Call Pure Water Pros WELDERS NEEDED Minimum Qualifications: (352) 578-5096 • High School diploma or equivalent (850) 693-8844 • Ability to read and understand Free H2O Analysis CAD sketches, • Able to read a tape measure to St. Lic. #2632 the 1/16th, Insured • Minimum of two years welding experience or a graduate of a certified welding program, • Must pass Weld Certification Test TALL TIMBER on-site, TREE SERVICE • Must read and speak English, • Heavy lifting is required on a regular basis (50 lbs), • Must possess a valid driver’s license. Qualified applications can apply online at www.bigtopshelters.com/ • Stump Grinding careers, or in person at Big Top Manufacturing, Inc. 3255 N US • Tree Trimming 19, Perry, Florida (by appointment • Tree Removal only). EEO/AA/m/f/vets/disabled. • Tractor Work BT • Bush Hogging GOOD SHEPHERD CHILD • Bucket Truck Use DEVELOPMENT CENTER is • Land Clearing actively seeking a preschool *Free Estimates* *Great Rates* director. Insurance benefits available. Preschool or Early Mark A. Moneyhan, Licensed Childhood Education experience and Insured. Certified Quality required. Management experience Specialist. is a bonus. Salary based on Call today! experience. Please call Chelsea Morgan at (850) 584-7445 for more (850) 838-5923 information. 2/19 A-11 Taco Times February 17, 2021

CMS SAFETY SERVICES SEEKS DONATIONS A local safety services who offer first-aid medicalas well as backpacks, to anxiety attacks, CMS organization is seeking support, unarmed security clipboards and pens. Safety Service volunteers’ monetary donations and and safety services at Additionally, monetary primary role is medical, medical supplies to help JROTC events and camps. donations can contribute providing preventative and provide medical and Because the local non- to the purchase of uniform reactive medical assistance. security support for the profit organization operatesitems, UTV/ATVs for “In short, this means we local JROTC program. on a very limited budget transporting sick and attempt to prevent medical CMS Safety Services, – entirely dependent upon injured persons, fuel and incidents from occurring, founded by Charles private donations -- it is in insurance, which are and when they do occur, Swindle of Perry, is a need of bandages, over-the- needed to ease the personal mitigate them to the best non-profit organization counter of medication, vitals expenses of volunteers. of our abilities,” founder volunteer first respondersmonitoring equipment, Because they treat Charles Swindle said. and medical professionals airway adjuncts and splints, everything from bug bites CMS Safety Services also provides free standby medical services for JROTC events and competitions, as Farm Report well as to any other non- profit organization in the area. “If there is an injury, we can potentially treat the person without having to tie up emergency services, although we will call them if the person is beyond CMS Safety Services, founded by Charles our ability to fully assist,” Swindle explained. Swindle of Perry, is a non-profit organization “We also act as safety of volunteer first responders and medical professionals who offer first-aid medical support, officers, offering advice and counsel on actions that unarmed security and safety services at JROTC are either too unsafe to events and camps. attempt and offering ideas reporting any suspicious CMS are conducted at the on how to mitigate any behavior and doing night expense of the volunteers, hazards. We also report and patrols of the camp to who are committed to record medical and security ensure all cadets are in preventing unnecessary statistics to improve future their designated areas and medical emergencies. With DAvid Carlton events,” Swindle added. accounted for. To discuss how you As basic unarmed “Cadet safety is of the may be able to donate, Feb. 10: Then, the bottom fell out security at JROTC camps utmost importance to us please contact CMS and events, CMS Safety and any security issues we Safety Services at: Old man North has came of the sky, puddles filled down on us and sure made up and our glasses fogged Services assists in ensuring have beyond the ability cmssafetyservicesinc@ life a chore. over. accountability of each cadet of unarmed security is yahoo.com. I’ve been feeding stock After a few slippy-slidy by double head counting referred to on-duty law “Any help will be greatly behind instructors, enforcement,” Swindle appreciated and put toward and getting firewood start-ups, we finally got the with little else, other than show on the road and had a establishing a security explained. a great cause,” Swindle watching Mike Massey good trip to Madison with presence, tracking and All services provided by said train my cattle to respect eight yearlings. the wishes of his hangin So, today I’m re- tree cowdogs. cuperating -- I’m sore and regular. The herd was stubborn have a leg in my cramp. I still have four or five I at first, wanting to fight,But, I hope for a little could sell now. Chamber Banquet and there were a couple of sunshine when I do get This is good weather for bloody noses -- especially moving. April’s ducks and spring the bulls and mother cows. Praise the Lord. frogs. But, after four sessions, Feb. 16: Wasn’t it Mark Twain those same cows just It was a good rainy day who said, ‘A frog is the walked in the pen with little yesterday here on Woods only animal in the world is set for April 23 fuss. Creek Road in the beautiful who can live in a well and The Perry-Taylor County 50/50 ticket for $50 with Moore, will keep the I can’t tell you how much Granthum Hills area. not get tired?’ Chamber of Commerce is the winner going home night moving along with I appreciate Mike’s help. My gauge says 2.5 That is today’s deep moving forward with plans with half the proceeds. Our his quick wit, energy and That is one less thing to inches, and that adds up thought. to host its annual Chamber theme is ‘There’s No Place enthusiasm. Thank you to worry about. fast in already-wet dirt. David Carlton grew up Banquet, pushing the date Like Home!’,” Chamber Capital City Bank of Perry That was yesterday The creek was already on in Taylor County, where he back from its traditional Director Dawn Perez said. for being the sponsor of morning at good daylight, the way up, so maybe some worked on a Woods Creek February slot to April 23. Social hour will begin this event. If you already Mike had to go help fish can raise. Road farm in his youth. “Our special annual at 6:15 p.m., followed by purchased tickets, no somebody else, it being The eight yearlings sold Decades later, he now owns fundraiser event, which dinner at 7 p.m., an awards worries, they will transfer sale day, so he pulled out, at about average prices. that farm and spends his benefits the Chamberpresentation and after- to the new date. To obtain leaving me, Johnny and I counted 15 calves days tending to his cows Scholarship Program party. more information, please John to sort and load some left -- including the little and enjoying the country for Big Bend Technical “Our emcee and Master contact our office at 584- calves. guys, who are still coming life. College students, will be a of Ceremonies, Cline 5366,” she said.

LEGALS

price(s), under the conditions set meeting, please notify Michelle been served, must file their claims 9158 Robert Ricketson Road this notice must file their claims with (continued from page 10) forth in Ordinance 2003-12. No faxed Wheeler by phone 850-973-1618 with this court WITHIN THE LATER Perry, Florida 32348 this Court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3. Scope of Work - Proposal detail. proposals will be accepted. or by email [email protected] atOF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THREE MONTHS AFTER THE DATE Refer to Attachment “A” for suggested For additional information contact: least one day prior to the meeting, THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT, THIRD OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS scope of work. Mark Stephens Taylor County Jail so we may provide the proper NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, NOTICE OR THIRTY DAYS AFTER THE 4. Fee - Proposed pricing for door 589 E. us 27 accommodations and spacing for this TIME OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF IN AND FOR TAYLOR COUNTY, DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF control panel replacement and all Perry, FL. 32347 gathering. NFC is an equal access/ THIS NOTICE ON THEM. FLORIDA THIS NOTICE ON THEM. options. (850) 584-4333 equal opportunity employer. All other creditors of the decedent PROBATE DIVISION All other creditors of the decedent 5. Project Timeline - Provide timeline BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF and other persons having claims or CASE NO. 2021-CP-68 and persons having claims or outlining proposed starting date, COUNTY COMMISSIONERS, Taylor demands against decedent’s estate IN RE: The Estate of demands against the estate of the estimated length of project, and date County, Florida. IN THE CIRCUIT COURT, THIRD must file their claims with this courtFRANK PHILLIPS, JR., decedent must file their claims with of completion. JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE Deceased. this court WITHIN THREE MONTHS The County reserves the right, in TAYLOR COUNTY, FLORIDA. OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE TO CREDITORS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST its sole and absolute discretion, Case No. 2020 - 303 - CP NOTICE. TO ALL PERSONS HAVING CLAIMS PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. to reject any or all proposals, to NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING: In Re: Estate of ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE OR DEMANDS AGAINST THE ABOVE ALL CLAIMS AND DEMANDS NOT SO cancel or withdraw this request for The District Board of Trustees of JOYCE ARLENE CHEZEM, FOREVER BARRED. ESTATE: FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. proposals at any time and waive any North Florida College will hold its Deceased. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME The administration of the estate of The date of the first publication of irregularities in the proposal process. regular monthly meeting Tuesday, NOTICE TO CREDITORS PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY Frank Phillips, deceased, April 13, this Notice is Feb. 17, 2021. The County reserves the right to February 16, 2021 at 5:30 p.m. in The administration of the estate of CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR2020 , is pending in the Circuit Court Personal Representative: award any contract to the respondent the NFC Student Center Lakeside JOYCE ARLENE CHEZEM, deceased, MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE for Taylor County, Florida, Probate Cindy L. Worsham which it deems to offer the best Room (Bldg. #9), 325 NW Turnerwhose date of death was June 20, OF DEATH IS BARRED. Division, the address of which is 2194 Wright Rd. overall service; therefore, the County Davis Dr., Madison, FL. For more 2020; File Number 2020-303-CP is The date of first publication of this P.O. Drawer 1000, Perry, Florida Perry, Florida 32347 is not bound to award any contract information, an agenda or to request pending in the Circuit Court for Taylor notice is: Feb. 10, 2021. 32348. The name and address of Attorney for Personal Representative: based on the lowest quoted price. disability-related accommodations, County, Florida, Probate Division, G. CLINE MOORE the Personal Representative and the Twyla Sketchley, Attorney The County, in its sole and absolute contact the President’s Officethe at address of which is Post OfficeATTORNEY AT LAW, P.A. Personal Representative’s attorney FL Bar No.: 478822 discretion, also reserves the right (850) 973-1618 or email wheelerm@Box 620, Perry, Florida 32348. The G. CLINE MOORE are set forth below. THE SKETCHLEY LAW FIRM, P. A. to waive any minor defects in the nfc.edu. North Florida College is names and addresses of the Personal Attorney for Personal Representative ALL INTERESTED PERSONS ARE The Professional Center at process and to accept the proposal deeply committed to the safety of our Representative and the Personal Florida Bar No. 119512 NOTIFIED THAT: SouthWood deemed to be in the County’s best trustees, employees, and community Representative’s Attorney are set 107 East Green Street All creditors of the decedent and 3689 Coolidge Court, Suite 8 interest. The County, in its sole and members who may choose to join us. forth below. Perry, Florida 32347 other persons having claims or Tallahassee, Florida 32311 absolute discretion, also reserves This in-person meeting will follow All creditors of the decedent and Telephone: (850) 584-3300 demands against the decedent’s Telephone: (850) 894-0152 the right to assign a local business Department of Health guidelines for other persons having claims or Email: [email protected] estate on whom a copy of this notice Facsimile: (850) 894-0634 preference in a maximum amount wearing masks and social distancing. demands against decedent’s estate, DOUGLAS ERWIN MOORE is served within three months after Primary Service E-Mail: service@ of five (5) percent of the proposedIf you would like to attend this on whom a copy of this notice has Personal Representative the date of the first publication of sketchleylaw.com A-12 Taco Times February 17, 2021

Booking Desk

Editor’s Note: It Dec. 11: Jessie Ray Johnny Lee Brianna Nicole Fla., FTA, $30,000 Floyd Lamar Donna Victoria is the policy of this Jaboree Nijuan Mathis, 52, Perry, Simmons, 28, Smith-Carter, 19, bond, Dep. Kelly, 64, Perry, Ross, 28, newspaper to run the Simmons, 19, Fla., knowingly Perry, Fla., reckless Perry, Fla., out-of- Hamilton, TCSO. Fla., poss. of cntrl. Steinhatchee, Fla., names of all those Perry, Fla., poss. DWLS/R, $2,000driving first county warrant, Ptl. subs. without a VOP, Ptl. Cephus, arrested and booked of cannabis within bond, Sgt. offense, $200 bond, Mailly, PPD. prescription, poss. PPD. at the Taylor County 1,000 feet of school, McKenzie, TCSO. Ptl. Mailly, PPD. of drug paraphern., Jail. All those listed $2,000 bond, Dep. $4,000 bond, Dep. below have been Brasby, TCSO. Whiddon, TCSO. charged with a crime, but are considered innocent until proven guilty. Dec. 10: Thomas R. Lindsey, 34, Wade Perry, Fla., out-of- Dec. 13: county warrant, Ptl. Akeem Dukarai Cephus, PPD. Mathis Simmons Smith-Carter Price, 28, Perry, Ross Ventrell L. Dec. 12: Fla., fail to register Dorsey Jones, McGee, 37, Glen Wilson Jason Lavalle motor vehicle, 27, Perry, Fla., Bolden, 35, Perry, Kelly Simmons Perry, Fla., Coxwell, 22, Perry, DWLS first offense, VOP, no bond, Dep. aggravated battery Fla., DUI, refuse Fla., aggravated poss. of cocaine, Dec. 14: Thigpen, TCSO. Kyle Wesley (pregnant victim), to submit to blood- assault with deadly drug equipment James Kelly Herndon, obstruction of alcohol test, DWLS weapon without Cruce, 34, 39, intent to kill, poss./use, $9,000 Steinhatchee, Fla., justice (intimidate first offense, DUI bond, Ptl. Mailly, Perry, Fla., out-of-county or threaten victim), and property property damage PPD. battery, violation warrant, $90 bond, resist LEO without damage, burglary criminal mischief of injunction Dep. Parker, TCSO. violence, $32,000 (structure, +$1,000 (+$1,000 damage), of protection bond, Ptl. Rice,damage), reckless poss. of LSD, domestic violence, PPD. driving (damage $20,000 bond, Ptl. aggravated battery Lindsey property), criminal Rice, PPD. with deadly Carlos D. mischief (break/ weapon, cheating Murray, 42, Perry, injure fence), resist or gross fraud, Fla., resist LEO LEO (flee/attempt illegal use of credit Jones (with violence), to elude), burglary cards, larceny petit Dale Evans, 23, assault on first (in unoccupied theft first degree, Perry, Fla., kidnap responder, flee/ convey. unarmed), $7,000 bond, Ptl. false imprisonment elude with disregard grand theft of Mailly, PPD. of adult, battery, of safety, battery motor vehicle, Price property damage larceny petit on first responder, James Garrett theft first degree, resist LEO without (+$1,000 damage), Taylor, Herndon McGee 41, Perry, loitering or violence, $77,000 to knowingly Fla., VOP, no bond, prowling, resist bond, Ptl. Mailly, DWLS/R, $54,000 Bolden Sgt. McKenzie, LEO, $19,000 PPD. bond, Dep. Ballard, TCSO. TCSO. Johnnie Ray bond, Ptl. Cephus, Wade, 39, Perry, PPD.

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