JeffersonFriday, June 14, Journal2019 Vol. 12 number 46 county 75¢ +tax ECBPUBLISHING . COM CommunityLocal Newsdeputies train with real-world Medical marijuana simulator facility gets go-ahead Lazaro Aleman Development Code,” Metty told the board in ECB Publishing, Inc. her brief comments. “It is the recommendation of the Planning Commission and planning staff The proposed medical marijuana growth that the project be approved for development.” facility last week sailed through the Jefferson The only citizens to speak on the issue County Commission's review and approval were Paul Henry and Bud Wheeler, chairman process without a hitch. of the Jefferson County Commission. Both In no more than 15 minutes, Planning expressed support for the project. Official Shannon Metty introduced the Henry noted that unlike the controversial proposal; engineer Sean Marston, of Urban amateur sports facility commonly known as Catalyst Consultants in Tallahassee, gave an the game changer, the marijuana facility wasn't overview of the project; and the board asking for taxpayers' money and it was See page 5 unanimously voted to approve the facility as a creating jobs. Community News major development and special exception, with “This is tremendous that they are coming not a single question asked. to the county,” he said. Teenagers learn “This application has met all the And Wheeler affirmed the Planning See FACILITY page 3 requirements of the Jefferson County Land self-defense Reams, commission settle legal dispute
Lazaro Aleman team – Attorneys J. David his immediate suspension from ECB Publishing, Inc. Marsey and Kayla E. Platt Rady, office by the governor, his of the law firm of Rumberger, acquittal of the charge by a jury The dispute between Clerk Kirk and Caldwell in in January 2018 and his of Court Kirk Reams and the Tallahassee. Commission reinstatement to office in Jefferson County Commission Chairwoman Betsy Barfield's December 2018, after he sued over his legal fees came to a was the lone vote. the governor and Florida Senate close last week. Marsey, in his brief recital to and a federal judge ruled in his See page 6 It happened on Thursday the board of the dispute's history, favor. evening, June 6, when the touched on the key points of Marsey noted that the Sports commission voted 4-1 to accept Reams' criminal and civil cases, commissioners had obtained the settlement agreement beginning with the latter's arrest independent opinions from two Celebrating the See REAMS page 3 proposed by its outside litigation in October 2017 for petit theft, athletes “...I'm looking for rehabilitation.” Assistant State Attorney speaks to school board over JES break-in
Ashley Hunter recommendations. ECB Publishing, Inc. In March and April of this year, five local juveniles were arrested on felony vandalism The topic of the Jefferson Elementary School charges. Deneen stated that all five juveniles would (JES) break-in and vandalism, as well as the be tried in a juvenile court, but Deneen – the See pages 8-9 subsequent felony arrest of five juvenile vandals, primary prosecutor – had yet to make any plea returned before the Jefferson County School Board offers, as he'd been waiting to hear from the school (JCSB) during its Monday, June 10 meeting. district. Observing “Teens are on the TV every “I understand the board's upset Flag Day night...we cannot get like Leon that some windows were broken, County, and if we don't do some fire extinguishers were set something to show an example of off and some damage was done, what we will not tolerate in but in the scheme of things...we Jefferson County, then we are going still have an opportunity to to look just like Leon [County],” rehabilitate them,” – Board Member Sandra Saunders - Assistant State Attorney Andrew Deneen
Before this month's meeting of the JCSB, Deneen shared with the board, upon Assistant State Attorney Andrew Deneen had questioning by School Board Member Sandra addressed school board members at their May Saunders, that none of the five students were meeting to assess what level of prosecution the currently being held in a juvenile justice facility. school district, as the victim, was hoping to achieve “Given the nature of the offense, it's a first- during court sessions. degree felony based off the amount of damages, As he had not obtained a defined answer, they could have probably been held secure in a Deneen returned before the board members on June Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) facility,” said See SCHOOL BOARD page 3 See page 18 10 to follow up on their prosecution
One Section - 18 pages Did you know? Farm & Outdoors...... 12 'Bookkeeper' and 'bookkeeping' Index Puzzle Page...... 13 are the only two words in the Viewpoints...... 2 Sports...... 8-9 Health...... 14-16 English language with three Community News...... 4-6 History...... 10 Classifieds & Legals...... 17 consecutive double letters Father’s Day...... 7 Food, Fun & Entertainment...... 11 Flag Day...... 18 2 • JEFFERSON COUNTY JOURNAL • FRIDAY, JUNE 14, 2019 Deb’s Notes
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Come see MadCo's production of Seussical, To myMy dad father, somehow from his daughter Jr. the Musical at the Monticello Opera House survived me nearly (MOH), Friday, June 14 at 10:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. and driving into the house on Saturday, June 15 at 11:30 a.m. Tickets are $10 (twice) and the fact that I for adults, $5 for children and are available online, was terrified to drive by phone, or by stopping by the above 30 miles per hour. I can't say the office. There will also be tickets Ashley Hunter available at the door for all Columnist experience left him performances. “This is one of our without scars, though – After only a few he has openly declared best children's show yet,” says th months after his 20 that he's hanging up his MadCo Director and birthday, my dad became hat when it comes to Choreographer Melanie Mays. – well, a dad. teaching my younger Want the latest news and Debbie Snapp He was a skinny kid, siblings how to drive. Columnist information about events coming a firefighter and would My dad always to the MOH? Want access to soon be entering Army worked hard, maybe exclusive, Facebook-only discounts and contests? boot camp. sometimes too hard. Then like facebook.com/monticellooperahouse today. When I look back on There are 10 of us For ticket reservations and information, visit pictures of my dad, with kids, and early on in their monticellooperahouse.org/buy-tickets or call (850) his boot camp-haircut, marriage, my parents 997-4242. with his skinny post- decided that it would be Both of my parents and me during a long-ago, U-pick organic blueberries are ready for the teenage physique, that's best for my mom to be a 1990s Christmas. hardly the man I picking at Blue Star Farm, 1180 Ashville Hwy. on stay-at-home parent. In many ways, my friends and of my dad remember as “Dad.” Saturday, June 15 from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and on While mom stayed dad has been my biggest giving me the push I I can't really recall Saturday, June 22 from 6 to 9 p.m. for a Blueberry home with us kids, dad cheerleader – whether as sometimes need to do the earliest memory I was – and is – the sole Party at the farm with music by Finn and the a photographer, a news things on my own. have of my dad; I provider for our family. Kingsnakes. There will also be hotdogs for everyone. reporter or a writer, he's To my dad: I love remember visiting him in That meant plenty of you so much, I wouldn't Come pick organic blueberries on this scenic farm always the one on the the hospital after he'd long nights and early sidelines, cheering me be the person I am today with its rolling hills for $4 per pound and discounts been in a gas plant mornings at the office as on. without you. Thank you for over six pounds picked. If you'd like to stay a explosion while my dad put in the hours I won't say that my for the years you've spent while, feel free to bring your lawn chairs and cooler firefighting. I didn't fully that would keep us all dad is perfect because investing in us kids. to enjoy a picnic at the farm. Come early for the understand how close I fed, clothed and housed. he's far from it, but when Thank you for the care coolest weather. Contact [email protected] or was to losing my daddy My dad taught me by I think of father-like love, you gave me when I was bskyfarm.com or call (850) 545-6128. forever. his example what a hard I think of my dad sick and the tough-love Be the wave of chance by donating blood on Some things I'm not worker is and how a working late to provide you provided when I had the BigRedBus on Saturday, June 15 from 10 a.m. sure if I indeed professional should act. for his family. I think of my teen (...and, remember, or if I just to 3 p.m. during the Watermelon Festival. All donors When I was first my dad taking the time to sometimes, post-teen...) recall from watching will receive a free OneBlood t-shirt and a wellness hired as a fledgling news listen as I complain about attitudes. I am extremely family videos. checkup including blood pressure, temperature, iron reporter, it was my dad workplace woes. I think blessed to have you as my As I grow older, I who was ecstatic and count, pulse and cholesterol screening. To better of my dad sharing news dad. have more concrete shared in my excitement serve you, make an appointment online at of his daughter's Happy Father's Day, memories of him. over this new venture. from your first born. oneblooddonor.org and use sponsor code #41436. achievements with his For more information call (888) 9-DONATE. Tobacco Free Jefferson Partnership Leadership Summit will be held on Saturday, June 29, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Florida Department of Health in the Jefferson County Annex Conference Letters Room, located at 1255 W. Washington St. All to the Editor community members are welcome. For more information or to reserve a space, contact Chastity McCarthy at (850) 342-0170 ext. 1241. Letters to the Editor are typed word for word, comma for comma, as The Florida Museum of Natural History is sent to this newspaper. Please keep letter to 600 words or less. offering free admission to all fee-based exhibits for active-duty military personnel and their families through Labor Day, September 2, as a part of the nationwide Blue Star Museums initiative. This is the eighth consecutive summer the Florida FSU Graduate Program Museum has partnered with Blue Star Museums, a collaboration among the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, the Department of Defense I amcreating writing today in the hopes ofpolitical inspiring political professionalsoperatives with years of experience, most and more than 2,000 museums across the United members of our community who are looking to notably Monticello local Dr. Robert E. Crew, Jr. States. Free admission to paid exhibits is available to advance, or jump start their career in Politics. While As the Director of the Master of Applied all active-duty U.S. military and up to five family the idea of career advancement can be daunting, I American Politics and Policy program Dr. Crew is members: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines or Coast understand the importance of looking ahead as I was shaping the minds of young graduate students at Guard, as well as members of the National Guard in this position at the start of this year. Florida State University. His diverse background in and Reserve, U.S. Public Health Service and As a young woman working for the Florida politics and depth of knowledge of the legislative National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Legislature, I was unsure of my next move process and policy gives his students a true insight on Commissioned Corps as a way to thank active-duty educationally. I knew graduate school was the way to what their future in politics could hold. military personnel and their families for their go but was unsure what programs would help in If you are like me and are looking to expand your contributions to the nation. For more information advancing my professional career. As I looked around political knowledge by learning from professors like visit floridamuseum.ufl.edu/event/blue-star-museums. at my co-workers, I realized that several of them Dr. Crew while preparing yourself for a multitude of For more information on Blue Star Museums, visit happened to be MAAPP graduates. After discussing roles in the political realm, consider applying to arts.gov/national-initiatives/blue-star- with them what makes the MAAPP program different Florida State University’s MAAPP program. museums/frequently-asked-questions . from other programs it become clear the driving force The free summer meal program is held during -Michaela Metcalfe behind the program is the ability to be instructed by the week, Monday through Thursday, until July 11. Breakfast is from 8 to 8:30 a.m. and lunch is from 11:27 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the Jefferson Somerset cafeteria. This program is for all children under the age of 18. For questions and concerns contact school cafeteria personnel at (850) 997-3555 ext. 300. Sherry Hawk-Gray Holland is feeling motivated because the Jefferson Somerset Cross Country Team athletes are getting ready to start a new season of cross country. The team needs community help now with collecting donations of Gatorade, Powerade, snacks, fruit, chips and anything you can do to help would be greatly appreciated. Contact her at (850) 408-8658 if you are interested in helping these athletics. Let's make this year a successful season for these students.
NEWSROOM ADVERTISING Jefferson Journal SERVICES A weekly newspaper [USPS 361-620] designed Emerald Greene Deidre Myers county Office Hours: for the express reading Parsons Bookkeeper & Legals M-T 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Justice Barrington If you have any questions or concerns, call us at pleasures of the people of Publisher Fri 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. its circulation area, be they Lazaro Aleman 850-997-3568 or visit our website at Ad Sales Representative www.ecbpublishing.com Basic: $60/year past, present or future Senior Staff Writer Basic plus: $70/year residents. Debbie Snapp This newspaper reserves the right to reject any advertisement, news All access: $90/year Published weekly by PRODUCTION matter, or subscriptions that, in the opinion of the management, will E-Pub: $35/year ECB Publishing, Inc., 180 Staff Writer Carl Painter not be for the best interest of the county and/or the owners of this Ashley Hunter newspaper, and to investigate any advertisement submitted. Send address changes W. Washington Street. Graphic Design & Layout and other mailings to Monticello, FL 32344. Jefferson County Journal Staff Writer Kate Frizzell To place an ad, call 850-997-3568. Deadlines apply. MONTICELLO NEWS Periodicals postage Graphic Design & Ads Email [email protected] for legals and P.O. Box 428 paid at the Post Office in 2017 classifieds and [email protected] for display ads. Monticello, FL 32345 Monticello, Florida 32345. Award Winning Newspaper 180 W. WASHINGTON STREET • MONTICELLO, FL 32345 • PHONE: 850-997-3568 • FAX: 850-997-3774 • ECBPUBLISHING.COM JEFFERSON COUNTY JOURNAL • FRIDAY, JUNE 14, 2019 • 3
appropriatelyFrom zoned agricultural; Pageand total of 300 employees. One at the commission meeting. At the FACILITY from page 1 that the surrounding property owners The operation, he said, would run earlier review of the Planning had raised no objections, so long as the 24-7, have security fencing all around Commission, however, Fred Beshears, Commission's recommendation for facility was only for growing the the property, security cameras and of Simpson Nurseries, who described approval of the project, saying that the medical marijuana indoors. personnel indoors, and would be himself as being peripherally involved planners had done their due diligence Marston followed with an shielded from public view by a 50-foot with the project, said the pay would be in vetting the proposal. He further overview of the project, noting that the natural vegetation buffer all around. commensurate with the area. noted that the Beshears, a well- facility would be off U.S. 27, about a He said the potable and fire- He said the starting rate would be respected Jefferson County family, half mile east of the Waukeenah protection water would be provided by $10 or $11 hourly and go up from were associated with the project. Highway. He said the master plan the Jefferson Communities Water there. Management and office Metty in her introductory called for the construction to be System, septic tanks would be used positions, moreover, would get paid comments touched on the proposal's accomplished in four phases, in the end initially until the facility could connect more, he said. He noted, however, that major points, including that Trulieve, a resulting in three buildings of 250,000 to Monticello's sewer system, and wells the greenhouse jobs would require a state-licensed medical marijuana sq. feet each and four buildings of would provide the irrigation water. level of technical skill, as the operation company with a processing operation in 24,000 sq. feet each, plus a 365-space He said the traffic report had would be a highly-technical and Gadsden County, was behind the parking lot. indicated that minimal impact would robotic. The skills required, however, venture; that the facility here would be He said the first phase would entail occur on U.S. 27, that the cultural and weren't anything that anyone of average for the growth of marijuana only, with construction of the first 250,000 sq. environmental surveys had shown no intelligence couldn't master, he said. the plants to be transported to Gadsden foot building and the hiring of 150 significant features on the land, and Construction on the facility could County for processing and distribution; employees, with each subsequent phase that noise and odor from the facility begin as early as this year, with that the 85-acre parcel on which the to result in additional buildings and would be negligible. operation expected to go into facility was to be located was hirings until the operation reached a The issue of pay did not come up production sometime in 2020.
REAMS Which amount, he said, constituted full to approve the settlement, absent any outside attorneys. from page 1 settlement of all claims and would result discussion. The settlement ends nearly six in dismissal of the lawsuit within 10 Reams and his attorney, David months of legal wrangling between outside attorneys as to the county's days of payment. Collins, of the Collins Law Firm in Reams and the board on a matter that liability to reimburse Reams for his legal “Plaintiffs will also execute a Monticello, sued the commission several had its start in October 2017, when fees and court costs and both attorneys general release of all claims, which will months ago when the latter declined to Reams was arrested on a charge of petit had separately advised that “it was more ensure no additional claims can be pay for Reams' legal fees and court theft for allowing his then girlfriend to likely than not that the county would be brought against the county arising from costs, which Collins argued Reams was use a county-owned laptop for her responsible for the reimbursement.” Clerk Reams' suspension and entitled to receive by law. When the personal use without authorization. Marsey also informed the reinstatement, including but not limited argument failed to move the Following the arrest, Gov. Rick commission that, “Although Jefferson to back pay,” Marsey said. commissioners, Collins told them that Scott suspended Reams from office. In County was in no way responsible for He reminded the board that the interest would apply for each day that January 2018, a six-member jury Mr. Reams' suspension from office, the plaintiffs' original demand, with the the payment was delayed. exonerated Reams of the petit-theft Florida Supreme Court held almost 30 prejudgement interest, exceeded The commission subsequently charge. Still, the governor and Florida years ago that the burden to bear $130,000. sought the advice of outside counsel, as Senate refused to hold a hearing either attorney fees for reinstated public “This recommended settlement the county's two paid attorneys claimed to reinstate or remove him from office officials should lie with the government reflects a discount of nearly $50,000 to have a conflict of interest in terms of permanently. and not the employee.” from the mount of attorney fees and Reams. When the first outside attorney Reams sued Scott and the senate He added that after exploring all the prejudgment interest originally sought found that the county was likely liable president in federal court in March possible defense options and conducting and would save the county for the reimbursement, the commission 2018, arguing that he was been denied an independent analysis of all the approximately $40,000 in defense costs sought another legal opinion, all the due process. A federal judge agreed, and records, including the hourly rate and and fees that would be incurred if the while that the interest accrued and the in late December 2018, Scott signed an the number of entries the plaintiffs were case were to be litigated,” Marsey said. legal fees for outside counsel mounted. order reinstating Reams. Since then, claiming, it was his and his colleague's No sooner did Marsey conclude his So that in addition to the $88,500 must Reams has been trying to get the county recommendation that the county accept presentation than commissioners moved be added the fees expended for the to pay his legal fees. a negotiated settlement of $88,500.
SCHOOL BOARD opportunities, meet with the department “I understand the board's upset that Deneen also reminded the board from page 1 head at DJJ. That's a very common some windows were broken, some fire members that, as of yet, he had not offering in these kinds of cases,” said extinguishers were set off and some received a specific suggestion from the Deneen. He added that there had been a Deneen, adding that juvenile offenders damage was done, but in the scheme of board on what to offer in a plea deal. miscommunication between the could also receive multiple years of things...we still have an opportunity to “I'm a prosecutor, I'm asking for Jefferson County Sheriff's Office and probation, with special conditions. “I rehabilitate them. In felony adult court, specifics, not just 'don't give them a slap DJJ, and none of the juveniles were don't think a judge is going to send them I'm looking for punishment. In juvenile on the wrist,'” said Deneen. transported to Tallahassee before the to a residential facility.” court, I'm looking for rehabilitation.” Deneen also stated that, as a time limit on how long a juvenile could th Board Chairperson Shirley Reverend Clifford Hill of the 11 prosector, ensuring that the subject party be held expired. “Given that none of Washington expressed dissatisfaction Episcopal District of the African or future subjects do not repeat the them have any criminal history and the with Deneen's statements on the matter, Methodist Episcopal Church, the crime is part of his focus. nature of this particular offense, I don't saying: “If they get by with this, we can organization that is planning to obtain However, “I don't think any time believe the community is in any real expect anything to happen. This will be the lease of the now-vandalized JES someone is arrested for a crime, they get danger from them being out in the an example for anybody else that will building to provide a community center their name in the paper, they go to court public.” want to do anything similar.” for Jefferson County, stood to speak. once a month, they are potentially However, Board Member Saunders “I'm not in favor of just slapping According to Rev. Hill, one of the ordered to do restitution or community disagreed. them on the hand and saying, you know, functions of the future community service hours, I don't really consider that “I live right around the corner [from 'it's okay,'” added Washington. “The center will be to give youth in the to be a slap on the wrist," added Deneen. JES], so yes it is an issue,” said only thing that really stays in my mind is county a place to stay active and have During the public comments Saunders. “They just did a crime and that as long as that school had been something "to do" without seeking out session, a citizen questioned whether or [got to] go home to mommy – nothing there, no vandalism had been done. But trouble or crime. not the school board had sent a has been done. We're not going to just sit immediately after this board voted to “We can get them active where we professional out to the JES campus in back and say 'yeah, you can stay with lease the [school], then that's what won't have this type of situation. We are order to evaluate the full extent of your mommy' and that's going to be it. happened.” very instrumental in juvenile justice and damages to the campus. That's not going to happen. That will not Board Member Saunders also trying to keep these kids out of jail, out “That's a part of what's going on,” happen.” expressed her dislike of the seemingly of trouble,” said Rev. Hill. “We could said the citizen, adding that without Superintendent Marianne Arbulu light sentencing for the juvenile give them a better access to life, a knowing what the replacement value is, asked Deneen what the school district's offenders, asking if anyone in the room second chance on things that they have the board would have no idea how much options were on recommending a plea had been paying attention to local news done. We believe that if we get the to pay for repairs or to request for offer or judicial decision. regarding teenage offenders. facility, and [with] the location of the restitution. “If they are going to pay “You can make a recommendation,” “Teens are on the TV every night,” facility, we could do something the at- some type of restitution, you'll have a said Deneen, before adding: “I make the said Saunders, mentioning the rise in risk children. We just want to work with number to say 'ok, this is what it's going ultimate decision as to what I'm going to reported juvenile crime in Tallahassee. the community and the children and to cost.'” recommend to the court. In this case, I “We cannot get like Leon County, and if make them better adults.” The citizen also asked if the board is haven't made any plea offer; I'm waiting we don't do something to show an School District Attorney Tom planning to make repairs before turning to hear any kind of request from the example of what we will not tolerate in Reeves reminded the school board that the school building and its grounds over [school] board before I make any th Jefferson County, then we are going to in the past, state attorneys did not go out to the 11 Episcopal District, to which ultimate decision.” th look just like Leon [County].” of their way to obtain prosecution the board said no – the 11 Episcopal While Deneen will make the final Saunders stated that she felt as suggestions from the victims. District will be getting the JES building decision on what offer he provides to the though, should the courts provide a “What they're doing now, they are “as-is.” court system, he did acknowledge that lesser punishment, future juveniles will actually involving the victim,” said Bill Brumfield suggested gathering the school district could make an be encouraged to commit similar Reeves. “That's a step forward from publicly before their July meeting to independent offer to the judge, should it criminal acts. where it used to be.” determine what they would like to disagree with Deneen's decision. “I'm not saying crucify anybody, but Reeves further advised the board recommend to Deneen. “I don't have to agree with you. If I am saying that there must be an that the juvenile court system depends The idea was favorable with all five you disagree with me, you can tell the example made out of whomever,” added on whatever the judge ultimately board members, and the board set a time judge that,” said Deneen. Saunders. “Make an example big decides, as there is no jury in juvenile for a special meeting, which will focus According to Deneen, most enough that somebody will be able to court. on the determination over which juveniles who are involved in a similar feel it. We cannot afford, in Jefferson “[Deneen] is going to know what recommendation the board will make to vandalism case could be eligible for a County or Monticello, to be opened up that judge is more likely to do. If you're the state attorney. “judicial disposition outside of the with bad news like this. It's not ok.” talking about what you actually can The special meeting will be held on adjudication,” such as a diversionary With both board members expect the judge to do, I think the Thursday, June 20, at 6 p.m. program that is sponsored by the DJJ. expressing disapproval over Deneen's assistant state attorney will be in the best This meeting will be open to the “It's a six-month program where, penalty conclusions, Deneen addressed position to know that and be able to public and will be held at the Jefferson generally, [juveniles] are given the stance that the juvenile court system advise y'all on what, practically, the County School District Office, located at counseling, community service takes when handling juvenile crime. judge may do,” said Reeves. 1490 W. Washington St., in Monticello. 4 • JEFFERSON COUNTY JOURNAL • FRIDAY, JUNE 14, 2019
Chamber COMMUNITY CALENDAR [email protected] OR (850) 997-3568 After 5 at June 15, 19 at the R.J. Bailar Public Library held on the third Jefferson Arts, located at 575 W. Washington St., will Tuesday of each month at 4:30 p.m. Guest speakers will have on exhibit 'A Taste of the South' in the gallery occasionally be invited to speak to the group and there The First through August during regular hours from 10 a.m. to 2 will be plenty of opportunity for supportive p.m. on Wednesdays and Saturdays. For more conversation. Those interested in speaking with the Bank information or to make an appointment call (850) 997- group should contact Youth Librarian Courtney Nicolou Debbie Snapp 3311 or go to jeffersonartsgallery.com. at [email protected]. ECB Publishing, Inc. June 16 June 18 Saint Phillip AME Church will present a Father's Day Jefferson County Humane Society general meeting at The next Monticello-Jefferson County Service on Sunday at 11 a.m. with guest preacher Rev. 6:30 p.m. on the third Tuesday of the month at Wolf Chamber After 5 will be held at The First Lee E. Plummer, Presiding Elder Quincy District. Rev. Creek Pet Adoption Center, 2123 E. Washington St. Bank, located at 200 E. Washington St. on J.W. Tisdale, church pastor. Call (850) 342-0244 for more information or to Thursday, June 20. June 16 volunteer. This social brings together members of Welaunee Missionary Baptist Church will celebrate its June 18 the business community in a fun-filled Homecoming with a Sunday Morning Service at 11 Jefferson County Republican Party meets on the third atmosphere designed to encourage a.m. and a dedication of its church kitchen, honoring the Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m. for dinner and 7 p.m. for networking and interaction while enjoying late Deaconess Mary Harris; a faithful and dedicated a meeting at the Monticello Jefferson County Chamber tasty food and drink. church member. Speaker for the hour will be Prophetess of Commerce, 420 W. Washington St. For more It allows members to form comfortable Angie Keaton-Wiggins of Tallahassee and guest choir information contact Colin Barton at relationships, which strengthens community will be Mt. Pleasant Ministries Choir of Capps. [email protected] or (850) 728-3858. bonds because people tend to do business Chairperson is Dea. Saundra Campbell and Church June 18 with people they know. Pastor is Elder Pedro McKelvin. Quit Smoking classes are held from 5 to 7 p.m. on the Promoting business and promoting June 16 third Tuesday of the month at the health department. Monticello is what the Chamber is all about. Cub Scout Pack 803, for boys and girls ages 6-10, meets June 18 Also, while promoting and celebrating on the first and third Sunday of the month at 2 p.m. at Knitters & Crocheters Group meets at 10 a.m. on the Monticello and all its glory, let's come The Eagle's Nest, 1085 S. Water St. Contact Troop first and third Tuesday of the month at the R.J. Bailar together to wish retiring City Manager Leader Phil Smith at (850) 342-0196 or (850) 509-1873. Public Library. Bring your projects to work. Someone is Steve Wingate the very best in his future June 17 available to help. Contact Nancy Banks at (850) 491- endeavors. American Legion Post 234 meets at 5 p.m. on the third 0887 for more information. A retirement party for Wingate will take Monday of the month at the Teen Center on Tiger Lane. June 19 place on Tuesday, June 18, from 5 to 6:30 For more information contact Commander Mack Does your child love science, technology, engineering p.m. at City Hall, 245 S. Mulberry St. Benjamin at (850) 997-5977. or math? Get them involved with the weekly Summer June 17 STEM Club, hosted by Assistant Librarian Terez Jefferson County Washington at the R.J. Bailar Public Library. Each club Lions Club meets at session will begin at 3 p.m. on Wednesday and there 6:30 p.m. on will be new activities each week. The club is geared Mondays at the health towards youth aged 12-18. department annex, June 19 1175 W. Washington First Presbyterian Church, 290 E. Dogwood St., will St., for a program and host EaglesWings, an outreach food ministry serving meeting. For more the community, on the first and third Wednesday of the information contact month from 9 to 11 a.m. Volunteers are always needed Lion June at (850) to distribute food items and to donate non-perishable 997-1754. food items. Contact Coordinator JoAnne Arnold at June 15, 16, 17 (850) 997-2252 or [email protected] AA meetings are held for more information. Rev. R.C. Griffin, church pastor. at 8 p.m. on June 19 Thursdays, Saturdays, Kiwanis Club meets at 12 p.m. on Wednesdays at the Sundays, Mondays at Jefferson Country Club for a program and lunch. For Christ Episcopal more information contact President Sherri Dean at (850) Church Annex, 425 524-4442. N. Cherry St. For June 19-21 information call (850) Mt. Pleasant Ministries of Capps will host the Jefferson 251-0278. County Lamont Baptist Training Union at 7:30 p.m. June 18 nightly, Wednesday through Friday, with registration for Public Library Book Church School at 9:30 a.m. and Education Night at 7:30 and Movie Club p.m. Rev. Ben Ransom, president and Rev. Charles meets at 10 a.m. on Smith, church pastor. For more information call (850) Tuesday and is geared 997-5770 or (850) 3241-3717. towards elementary- June 21 aged children and Rotary meets at 12 p.m. on Fridays at the Chamber for a their parents, to meeting, program and lunch. For more information discuss that month's contact Matt Coniglio at (850) 566-0271. book or film, watch June 21, 22 the movie and put USDA Commodities Food Program and Second together fun crafts. Harvest Food Bank and New Bethel AME, Mt. Pleasant Contact the library at AME, Elizabeth MB, Hickory Hill MB and (850) 342-0205 for Philadelphia MB will provide food to those needing this month's assistance monthly at 8 a.m. on the fourth Saturday with movie/book. distribution at the New Bethel AME Church, 6496 June 18 Ashville Hwy. Volunteers are also needed on Friday LGBTQ+ teens and evening before at 6 p.m. to help bag the food packages. allies are invited to Contact Nellie Randell at (850) 997-5605 or Jackie meet for a private Harvey at (850) 997-8410 to volunteer or for more support session and information about this program. Rev. Jimmie F. Dickey, friendship gathering New Bethel church pastor. JEFFERSON COUNTY JOURNAL • FRIDAY, JUNE 14, 2019 • 5 Local deputies train with real-world simulator
ECB Publishing, Inc. Photo by Emerald G. Parsons, June 5, 2019 ECB Publishing, Inc. Photo by Emerald G. Parsons, June 5, 2019
Jefferson County Sheriff Mac McNeill is shown as he draws his pistol Lt. Don Barfield and Master Sgt. Chris Eades are shown as they make on a hostile assailant, during the recent Sheriff’s Office simulator training. their way through a virtual school during an active shooter training session with a simulator. Emerald G. Parsons ECB Publishing, Inc.
Last week, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office (JSCO) was fortunate to have the opportunity to use a Milo Range Simulator. This simulator helps deputies to become better trained in active shooter incidents with real-world scenarios. These are scenarios that the deputies may or may not have experienced before and helps give them extra training they may not have had yet. The simulator was brought to the JCSO by the Florida Sheriff’s ECB Publishing, Inc. Photo by Emerald G. Parsons, June 5, 2019 Association. The Sheriff’s Association sets the simulator up at Sheriff Mac McNeill (left) and Master Sgt. Chris Eades (right) are shown the many different county Sheriff’s while participating in a real-wold simulator training of an active shooter Office’s in order to help train the situation. deputies. Some bigger counties may already own a simulator similar to the one brought to Jefferson County, but in the Big Bend and Panhandle, a lot of the smaller counties greatly benefit from this extra training. “We don’t have money to send our deputies to the big training sessions,” said Jefferson County Sheriff Mac McNeill. “So, it’s really good to have this [simulator] come to us by way of the Florida Sheriff’s Association, to train our men.” All Jefferson County deputies, reserve deputies and correctional officers took part in training with the simulator. The simulator provides several different real-life scenarios that ECB Publishing, Inc. Photo by Emerald G. Parsons, June 5, 2019 are beneficial to the training in each Cpl. Toby Ward officer’s job; domestic disputes, car Corporal Toby Ward (left) and Deputy Jerry Blackmon (right) are shown chases, courthouse shootings, jailhouse with their weapons drawn as they approach and try to diffuse a “bad breaks, burglaries, school shootings and church situation” during their simulator training last week. shootings. Each scenario also has three different circumstances that the moderator can make happen. In one session, the assailant can shoot or attack the officer, in another, the assailant complies to the officer’s commands and in the third instance, the assailant can run/flee, however, once found he may either comply or attack/shoot. In order to participate in the training, the officer stands in front of a big screen, with a handgun or rifle (both of which comply with the simulator and hold no live ammunition). The officer is informed as to what he is responding to (domestic call, burglary in progress, school shooting) and the scene begins to unfold. As the officer approaches the scene, the simulator looks both left and right and the officer speaks to the assailant as if he were really there with him. The officer doesn’t know if the assailant will pull a gun and attack or if he will eventually comply with the commands. It takes quick thinking and quick action in order to diffuse a bad situation, keep others from being hurt and keep himself alive. “This takes the deputy’s knowledge and puts it into a real-world scenario,” stated Sheriff McNeill. “They learn from their successes and their failures; sometimes you learn as much from the failure as you can from the success,” added Sheriff McNeill. 6 • JEFFERSON COUNTY JOURNAL • FRIDAY, JUNE 14, 2019
TeenagersCommunity learn self-defense News
ECB Publishing, Inc. Photo By Debbie Snapp, May 18, 2019
Several area students came together to learn about self-defense from Inspector Brian Gaynor with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Pictured, back row, from left to right, are: Turner Beshears, Anna Lee Trest, Mackenzie Wirick, Grace Beshears, Marilee Heaps, Caroline Norvell and Sally Beshears. Front row, left to right, are: Meg Norvell, Lindsey Davis, Haley Paul, Brian Gaynor, Grace Paul, Hunter Paul and Deputy Dustin McCoy.
Debbie Snapp ECB Publishing, Inc.
Before the school year ended, Sally Beshears, the grandmother of a soon-to-be graduating high school senior, became nervous about her grand-daughter going off to college; it would be a new school, new location, new people and probably nothing like she was used to in the small town of Monticello. When this realization hit her, she decided to contact Jefferson County ECB Publishing, Inc. Photo By Debbie Snapp, May 18, 2019 Sheriff Mac McNeill to get his thoughts about Instructor Brian Gaynor is pictured teaching a self-defense move to Lindsey Davis. self-defense techniques for greater sense of situational awareness. Being aware of your surroundings, and not ECB Publishing, Inc. Photo By Debbie Snapp, May 18, 2019 her granddaughter and a oblivious to them, can make all the difference. In fact, that skill alone can quite few of her friends, who Learning self-defense from Instructor Brian Gaynor often prevent an attack from occurring in the first place. He incorporated very basic are also leaving their is Marilee Heaps, keeping her hands above her waist and but effective defensive tactic skills that are easy to learn and easy to remember when close-knit and family- in a combative stand against her attacker. needed. This combination of mindset and reactionary physical skills provided the oriented community to students with a skill-set they should feel confident with in most situations they may places unknown. Beshears wanted her granddaughter to be safe and to come home face in and around any college campus. from college with happy and positive memories. “Why are you here today?” Gaynor asked the students. Sheriff McNeill suggested a self-defense class to educate and prepare these “I don't want to be a victim,” was said by one student and “I'm here to defend students for their educational journey. He contacted a work-related acquaintance myself,” were the words of another. with the Florida Department Gaynor's suggestion to the students was to learn an extra sport, like wrestling or of Law Enforcement who he “Why are you here today?” karate, and always to be on the alert and aware of your surroundings. Gaynor asked the students. had worked with before to set “I don't want to be a victim,” up a day that he could come and meet with the students. was said by one student and Special Agent Brian “I'm here to defend myself,” Gaynor, an inspector with the were the words of another. Florida Department of Law Enforcement, was only happy to assist in keeping these kids safe by arming them with education and hands-on instruction. On Saturday, May 18 a self-defense class was held with 11 interested students including Grace Beshears, Anna Lee Trest, MacKenzie Wirick, Lindsey Davis, Marilee Heaps, Haley Paul, Grace Paul, Hunter Paul, Turner Beshears, Caroline Norvell and Meg Norvell. Adult leaders included Sally Beshears and Sally Walton. The attending deputies included Dustin Matthews, Dustin McCoy, Corey Burrus, K9 Magnum and Sheriff McNeill. When tasked with creating this course of instruction, Gaynor knew that no single physical self-defense move or technique could be taught that would achieve lasting desired results. In fact, he knew that no matter what they did on the mats, ECB Publishing, Inc. Photo By Debbie Snapp, May 18, 2019 they would not have enough time or repetitions to make it a trained response to an attack. He did however, know that given the time parameters they could achieve a Students practice self defense moves to better keep themselves safe.
ECB Publishing, Inc. Photo By Debbie Snapp, May 18, 2019
Local teenagers and college-bound students learn how to protect themselves against unwanted advances. JEFFERSON COUNTY JOURNAL • FRIDAY, JUNE 14, 2019 • 7
What is a Dad?
A dad is someone who wants to catch you before you fail but instead picks you up, brushes you off, and lets you try again. A dad is someone Unique ways to honor who wants to keep you Father’sDad Day is a day manythis families look Father’sfamily to learn a little more aboutDay the old man. from making mistakes forward to. Though its history might not go back as Other great places to visit include Dad’s college far as many religious or government-designated campus or his ancestral homeland. but instead lets you holidays, Father’s Day is rife with tradition in many households. Highlight reel find your own way, even Father’s Day is celebrated on the third Sunday In the months preceding Father’s Day, do some in June in both the United States and Canada and covert digging through family photo albums to though his heart breaks also in the United Kingdom. While Father’s Day create a “This Is Your Life” highlight reel for Dad. in silence when you get might trace its origins to the United Go back as far as possible, even looking through States, the holiday is celebrated Dad’s baby photos if you can find them. hurt. across the globe, including in This might require a collaborative Argentina, Greece, India, effort, requiring the whole family A dad is someone Singapore and New to work together, but that can Zealand. make for an enjoyable way for who holds you when you Fathers often receive families to spend time together and gifts from their spouses and see how Dad became the man he is cry, scolds you when children on Father’s Day. today. Present the finished What to give the dad who product at a family dinner on you break the rules, seemingly has it all leaves Father’s Day. many people scratching their shines with pride when heads in the weeks preceding Make a list Father’s Day. People who find Another unique way to honor Dad you succeed, and has themselves in such situations can think outside is to compile a list of the many ways faith in you even when the box and look for ways to honor their fathers this you are and will always be grateful for having him year. The following are some unique ways to honor as a father. Adults honoring their fathers can cite you fail... Dad this Father’s Day. specific examples they recall from childhood and young adulthood when Dad went above and beyond - Unknown Travel or served as a sounding board or shoulder to cry on. Dad may be pleasantly surprised by a stroll This is a great way to honor Dad and let him know down Memory Lane. Plan a day trip or weekend all those sacrifices and special moments are still excursion to Dad’s hometown, visiting all his old appreciated and will never be forgotten. haunts, including the house he grew up in, and Father’s Day is a chance to honor Dad, and the allow him to serve as tour guide. This can be a way you choose to do so can be as unique as the great way for Dad to share stories and for his man himself. 8 • JEFFERSON COUNTY JOURNAL • FRIDAY, JUNE 14, 2019
CelebratingSports the athletes The 2019 sports banquet at Aucilla Christian Academy Ashley Hunter God has blessed our ACA sports ECB Publishing, Inc. community with.” The banquet was held in the On Saturday, May 18, Wilmer Bassett Gymnasium, Aucilla Christian Academy which is located on ACA’s (ACA) hosted its annual campus in Monticello, and athletic banquet. served as a time to honor and “It is amazing how recognize the academics fast the year flies by. and athletics of the I am always student who had put impressed by how their all into the many remarkable court, track or accomplishments field as well as the are made by the classroom. athletes here at The male Aucilla Christian athlete of the year is Academy,” said the Blake Wirick, the proud ACA Athletic female athlete of the Director, Dan year is Ashlyn Rogers, Nennstiel. “The the male academic coaches have done a athlete of the year is great job reminding us Cody Smith and the of the spiritual focus female academic athlete that is at the center of of the year is Emily each of our sports Brock. programs. I could not For more be more grateful for information on ACA, the hard-working visit aucilla.org or family atmosphere call (850) 997-3597. Photo Courtesy of Aucilla Christian Academy
Various members of the ACA varsity football team were awarded at the May 18 banquet. In the back row, pictured, from left to right, are: Brandon Hannon, FCC All Division Team; Blake Wirick, MVP; Ayush Patel, Burlsworth Character Award; Ryan Jackson, NFCC All Division Team; and Evan Courtney, Defensive Player of the Year. In the front row, pictured from left to right, are: Andrew Burrus, Linebacker Award; Dilyn Stowers, Rivalry Game Sportsmanship Award; Brady Browning, Offensive Player of the Year; and Will Sullivan, Coaches Award. Not pictured is Levi Stafford, NFFC Sportsmanship Award.
Photo Courtesy of Aucilla Christian Academy
Photo Courtesy of Aucilla Christian Academy Three ACA students received awards for their accomplishments on the school's varsity golf team. At ACA's athletic banquet, some of the school's varsity cheerleaders were recognized. Pictured, from left to right, are: Cody Smith, Boy’s Co-MVP; Pictured, from left to right, are: Bailey McLeod, Emily Brock, Selina Drawdy and Riley Hamrick. Megan Schofill, Girl’s MVP; and Ryan Jackson, Boy’s Co- Not pictured is Riley Hayes. MVP. ALL ACCESS $ Newspapers, E-pub, Ads ($418 Total VaValue) ONTICELLOLO EWS 90 BASIC PLUS M N $ Newspapers & E-pub ($363 Total VaValue) JeffersonJJoournal 70 BASIC Newspapers ($328 Total VaValue) $60 Subscription Choice: (Please Check One)
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SportsPhoto Courtesy of Aucilla Christian Academy Photo Courtesy of Aucilla Christian Aucilla Academy Christian Academy awarded their male The 2019 and female athletes male and female who had performed athletes of the with flying colors year at Aucilla both on the field Christian Acad- and in the emy are Male Ath- classroom. Pictured lete of the Year are Male Academic Blake Wirick and Athlete of the Year Female Athlete of Cody Smith and the Year Ashlyn Female Academic Rogers. Athlete of the Year Emily Brock.
Photo Courtesy of Aucilla Christian Academy Photo Courtesy of Aucilla Christian Academy
The talented athletes on ACA's varsity softball team were recognized The young men on the ACA varsity baseball team proudly hold up their for their accomplishments. Pictured, from left to right, are: Kenlea Stephens, trophies. Pictured, from left to right, are: Brandon Hannon, Defensive Award; Most Improved; Ashlyn Rogers, MVP; Lindsey Davis, Offensive Award; and Jameison Dalzell, Coaches Award; Blake Wirick, All Star Award; Tag Ali Townsend, Rising Star Award. Not pictured is Albree Shiver. Williams, Slugger Award; and Brady Browning, Warrior Award.
Photo Courtesy of Aucilla Christian Academy Photo Courtesy of Aucilla Christian Academy
The varsity girls basketball scored trophies and honors at the ACA Award-winning teammates on the ACA varsity volleyball team, pictured annual athletic banquet. Pictured, from left to right, are: Olivia Walton, from left to right, are: Maddie Drawdy, Miss Volleyball Award; Abby Reams, Offensive Award; Abby Reams, Defensive Award; Ashlyn Rogers, MVP; Most Improved Award; Ashlyn Rogers, Hustle Award; MacKenzie Wirick, Julianna Lindsey, Warrior Award; and Anna Lee Trest, Rebounding Award. Leadership Award; and Olivia Walton, Warrior Award.
Photo Courtesy of Aucilla Christian Academy Photo Courtesy of Aucilla Christian Academy
Aucilla's varsity boys basketball team was just one of the many teams On May 18, the ACA varsity tennis team received trophies for their well- and athletes honored at the school's banquet on May 18. Pictured, from left played games throughout the year. Pictured, from left to right, are: Suzanne to right, are: Cody Smith, Most Zealous Award; Ryan Jackson, MVP; Brandon Beshears, Girl's Most Improved; Riley Hamrick, Girl's Warrior Award; Davis Bates, Dominator Award; Dilyn Stowers, Best Teammate Award; and Will Cruce, Boy's MVP; Olivia Walton, Girl's MVP; and Will Sullivan, Boy's Most Sullivan, Hustle Award. Improved. Not pictured is Dawson Bishop, Boy’s Warrior Award.
Photo Courtesy of Aucilla Christian Academy
The athletes on ACA's varsity cross country team were given due recognition at the annual athletic banquet. Pictured, from left to right, are: Jason Hamilton, Boy’s Silent Leader Award; Sammi Drawdy, Girl’s MVP; Joey Davis, Boy’s MVP; and Matthew Arceneaux, Boy’s Leadership Award. Not pictured is Lauchlin Faglie, Girl’s Leadership Award and Kaitlyn Tharpe, Girl’s Silent Leader Award. 10 • JEFFERSON COUNTY JOURNAL • FRIDAY, JUNE 14, 2019 History