MONTICELLO NEWS 152 Years of Serving the Monticello Community www.ecbpublishing.com Wednesday, December 16, 2020 No. 42 75¢+Tax Monticello man dies in crash Kathrine Alderman ECB Publishing, Inc.

According to an official Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) report, on Saturday, Dec. 12, at 6:39 a.m., a wreck occurred in Gadsden County. A semi, driven by a 36-year-old male from Blountstown, Fla., was attempting to turn south onto Lanier Road from a private dirt road. Meanwhile, a pickup truck, driven by James William Gaczewski, a 48-year-old male from Monticello, with a four-year-old passenger, was traveling northbound on Lanier Road just north of US Hwy. 90. The semi failed to yield the right of way to Gaczewski and the trailer obstructed Gaczewski 's lane of travel in the northbound lane, causing him to hit the semi trailer's left rear. After impact, Gaczewski's pickup truck rotated until finally coming to a rest partially on the roadway and partially in the east side ditch, facing a northwesterly direction. ECB Publishing Inc. Photo by Laz Aleman, December 12, 2020 See CRASH page 3 A mound of the illegally dumped tires was still at the garbage collection site on New Monticello Road. Law enforcement agents reportedly had leads on the violator and are looking for the individual. Legislative hearing Illegal dumping Thursday at 4 p.m

Lazaro Aleman may lead to arrest ECB Publishing, Inc.

Lazaro Aleman dumping occurred at the garbage collection site on The Jefferson County Legislative Delegation ECB Publishing, Inc. New Monticello Road, about a mile west of announced last week that it will hold this year’s Monticello and a quarter mile north of U.S. 90. legislative hearing on Thursday evening, Dec. 17, in Deputies from the Jefferson County Sheriff’s She said an individual driving a flatbed wrecker the Jefferson County Office and law enforcement agents from the Florida truck and pulling a trailer drove into the site on two Courthouse Annex. Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) separate occasions last week and dumped about 300 State Representative were on the hunt last week for the person or persons tires. Jason Shoaf, chairman of who illegally dumped hundreds of old tires at one of “The first time they dumped about 150 tires at the delegation, and newly the county’s garbage collection sites. the site,” Letchworth said on Thursday, Dec. 10. elected Senator Loranne Beth Letchworth, director of the Jefferson “The next night, they came back and dumped about Ausley will be on hand to County Solid Waste Department, said the illegal See DUMPING page 3 share information about the coming legislative session and address constituents’ concerns and Driver takes curve too fast questions. Jason Shoaf “Senator Ausley and I State Representative are honored to represent the residents of Jefferson County in the legislature,” Shoaf said in announcing the hearing. “I look forward to convening in Jefferson County and discussing state issues that are of interest to local officials and residents.” Held annually, prior to Loranne Ausley each legislative session, Senator the delegation hearings are intended to afford local officials, citizens and organizations an opportunity to meet with the representatives, present legislative proposals or express opinions on issues of concern. ECB Publishing, Inc. Photo by Deidre Myers, December 5, 2020 Typically, the hearings last about an hour or so, A Monticello woman was driving east on Boston Highway when she attempted to turn onto Texas depending on the number of speakers and the issues Hill Road. According to reports, she did not slow down enough to make the turn and crashed into the and concerns raised. ditch on Texas Hill Road's east shoulder. The vehicle then traveled down the ditch, coming to a final rest teetering over the deep embankment. Jefferson Fire Rescue and Florida Highway Patrol assisted The delegation asks that any person or on scene. See HEARING page 3 Waukeenah Highway repaving effectively dead Lazaro Aleman the outcome. already extended once earlier, was set to expire in ECB Publishing, Inc. More than a week earlier, in fact, County December. Attorney Scott Shirley, who had been keeping Shirley said the FDOT’s decision stemmed The Waukeenah Highway resurfacing project, county officials abreast of the legal developments in from the budget shortfall that the department was which had long been in litigation, officially died on the case via periodic executive sessions that were facing as a result of the drop in state revenues from Thursday, Dec. 3, when the Circuit Court issued an closed to the public, informed the board that the decreased fuel and other taxes from business order abating the complaint filed against the county FDOT had pulled the plug on the project. closures and the public traveling less as a result of by a contractor. Shirley told the Jefferson County Commission the coronavirus pandemic. In reality, however, the Florida Department of on Thursday, Nov. 19, that the state agency had But the FDOT, he said, had also expressed Transportation (FDOT) had already earlier sealed denied the county’s request for a second extension concerns about the ongoing litigation, which dates the fate of the resurfacing project, although the of the $3,068,465 grant that was to finance the from April. litigation and COVID-19 undeniably contributed to repaving. The award contract, which the FDOT had See REPAVING page 3

One Section - 14 pages Did you know? Index Honey is the only Puzzle Page...... 9 Viewpoints...... 2 School...... 10 natural food which Community News...... 4-7 Faith & Family...... 11-13 never spoils. Holiday Shopping Guide...... 8 Classifieds & Public Notices...... 14 2 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2020 • MONTICELLO NEWS Viewpoints & Opinions Emerald’s Gem Box... C hristian Concepts I’m a Glamma (Again) Global Warming This past Saturday, Dec. 12, at 6:27 p.m., I became a I read a recent Glamma – again! article titled “Should Logan Michael Riley scientists artificially entered into this world cool the planet to stave Emerald Greene weighing seven pounds five off climate ounces and was 20 3/4 inches catastrophe?” It seems Parsons long. He is the son of my those who believe Publisher youngest daughter, Brooke, global warming is a and her husband Clint. Gary B. King threat to civilization Two years ago, I entered into the elite and Guest Columnist think it is time to take amazing group of grandparenthood; and I must say matters into their own being a grandmother (AKA Glamma) has been hands and do something about global absolutely wonderful and one of the greatest joys in warming. my life. (Althought it is still hard to believe that I am Does anyone remember that in the actually old enough to have grandchildren. It seems early 1970s there was “almost unanimous” just like yesterday that I was 25 years old, with two agreement among the scientific community small children of my own. Only now-a-days I don’t that global cooling indicated the earth was have that same youthful energy and it takes me a lot entering a new ice age that would reduce longer to get up off the floor, when playing.) food production on a grand scale, causing As I watched Brooke grow during her pregnancy, widespread starvation, resulting in a my heart swelled with joy, love and adoration. For I decreased human population on the earth knew she and Clint were going to be such good, of 75% to 80%? Now the threat is global loving parents. I felt pride in the woman she had warming. become and reverence, for both she and Clint, in all Brooke and Clint with their brand-new baby son, Logan Michael Riley. Scientific history of global they were doing in preparing everything, just temperatures clearly shows the earth goes perfectly, for the arrival of their new son. old we are, the motherly instincts just never leave us. through periods of cooling and warming. I For the last eight months I have prayed daily for I love my two daughters with my every being! have read reports that as recent as a the safety of Brooke and their unborn child; and now However, I was always told that the love of a thousand years ago the mean global for the last several grandchild would surpass temperature was warmer than it is today, days I have prayed anything I thought I “One thing is for sure …. Grandparenting and civilization was not destroyed. and thanked God for could possibly feel for I do not think global climate change is answering my will make you a different person. Mostly, another child. Some of a threat to civilization; the biggest threat to prayers. you’ll just become nicer than you were as my friends often told me civilization is Congress and those Chicken This birth was a a parent.” they wish their little different, for grandchildren had come Little scientists that advise them. we weren’t allowed first. Others jokingly It has been said that bad weather to go into the hospital. So, for the first two days of said, “I think I love my grandkids more than my reminds mankind that we really are not in Logan’s life, we only had pictures that were texted to kids.” I had always laughed at my friends … not control of everything. I think it is arrogant us and Facetime phone calls to rely on. It wasn’t truly knowing the depth of those statements … until for scientists to think they can or need to until Monday night that we all got to hold him. Oh, I became Glamma. It is truly a special kind of love. address global warming by artificial what a flood of emotions that was … to hold such a So, what makes being a grandparent feel so cooling of the planet for two reasons. tiny little baby again; to hold such a true miracle of amazing? I believe It is because when we were in First, I do not believe humanity is God; and to just hold and gaze down at this little boy our young 20’s or 30’s, raising our children was our capable of such a feat on the global scale that I know will have me wrapped around his little job. We got up and went to work to make money to needed. We have learned to cool our homes finger, in no time at all. raise our family. At the end of the day, we went during the summer with air conditioning, To watch Brooke and Clint hold him and cuddle home and it was our job to take care of everyone but it will take a lot more to cool the whole him brought back all the memories of my first few (baths, washing clothes, dinner and bedtime). We planet. More, I think, than mankind can days at home, alone with a newborn. The anxious awoke the next morning with the same tasks at hand. muster. and nervous feelings of not knowing what to do, of The sad fact of life is at that age you don’t have time Second, it is arrogant to think we can being scared of hurting him, and the pure feelings of to really relish in all the memories. At such a young do a better job of controlling the global helplessness at other times; it’s a learning experience age, you feel like it will last forever. climate than the natural order created by I don’t think any parent ever forgets. That’s why being a grandparent is so special. God. Typically, when we try to “fix” nature I must admit, two years ago when Kennedy first Now we all know how fast the days go by. In a blink we only mess things up. That does not stop came home, I relived a lot of those same feelings of an eye, our children are grown and have moved us from trying, but it is better when we again with her. When she would spend the night with out of the house. We find ourselves longing to hear flow and work with nature instead of me, I would wake up constantly … just to check on little baby footsteps and a child’s giggles and fighting it. her and make sure she was still breathing. Even now, laughter, once again. There was a global event many years at age two, I wake up throughout the night and put There is no greater love than that of a ago that almost entirely wiped-out human the baby monitor to my ear, so I can hear her parent/grandparent; and there is no greater gift from civilization; it was simply called the flood. breathing. It just goes to show that no matter how God than that of a child/grandchild. When the waters receded and Noah and his family disembarked from the ark, God promised to never again destroy every living thing as He had done, and said, Letters To The Editor “While the earth remains, seedtime and Letters to the Editor are typed word for word, comma for comma, as sent to this newspaper. harvest, and cold and heat, and summer Please keep letter to 600 words or less. and winter, and day and night shall not cease,” Genesis 8:22. Well, the earth still “remains” and The vaccine there have been periods of “cold and heat” It seems from talking to people, there is quite a bit number. The question is, how many of that 10% will just as He said. But I also believe what of indecision whether to take the COVID-19 vaccine actually get sick and/or die? It kind of made my God inspired Peter to write, “But the day that will be soon be available. I did not know how to decision easy. Please do not take Kamala Harris's of the Lord will come like a thief, in which respond to them, but I suspected that an equation advice that because President Trump is responsible for the heavens will pass away with a roar and might simplify it. First of all, the vaccine has a 90%- speeding up the process in getting the vaccine the elements will be destroyed with intense 95% success rate. This is the conjecture. Let's use a available, we shouldn't take it. This is the kind of heat, and the earth and its works will be sampling of 1,000 people. Ninety percent of a leadership we need in the White House? burned up,” 2 Peter 3:10. thousand people is of course 900. If only 80% receive It looks like global warming is going to the vaccine, that means there are 10% more people Best Regards, get us in the end. who are vulnerable. This does not give us an exact Lawrence Beger

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Graphic Design & Ads Email [email protected] for legals and P.O. Box 428 paid at the Post Office in classifieds and [email protected] for display ads. Monticello, Fla. 32345 Monticello, Fla. 32345. 180 W. WASHINGTON ST. • MONTICELLO, FLA. 32345 • PHONE: (850) 997-3568 • ECBPUBLISHING.COM MONTICELLO NEWS • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2020 • 3 From Page One

CRASH DUMPING the tires. from page 1 from page 1 Except for the Lloyd collection site, which The semi didn’t move from the area of collision the same number.” closes at sundown, most other collection sites facing in a southerly direction in the southbound Letchworth said both incidents – which remain open 24 hours for the convenience of lanes. occurred past midnight on Tuesday and Wednesday, residents. Which round-the-clock accessibility The driver of the semi received no injuries, the Dec. 8 and 9, respectively – were caught by the unfortunately presents a prime opportunity for four-year-old passenger of the pickup truck received video camera installed at the site to discourage some to do illegal dumping. minor injuries and Gaczewski was pronounced illegal activity. She was eventually able to identify In Florida, waste tires must be disposed at deceased on scene. the violator’s vehicle by way of the video and permitted tire collection centers, which are strictly No funeral arrangements are set as of press time. provided the information to law enforcement. regulated by the FDEP under the Waste Tire Florida Highway Patrol was assisted by Midway “I’m really hoping that we have figured out Management Program, as provided by Florida law. Fire Rescue, Gadsden County EMS, Gadsden who dumped the tires and it leads to an arrest,” she Typically, auto repair shops and recycling County Road Dept. and Gadsden County Sheriff's said. facilities are considered waste tire collection Office. Although the quality of the video prevented her centers and allowed to store up to 1,500 tires. from readily reading the truck’s license plate, said Motorists commonly are required to purchase new HEARING she was able to resort to social media to overcome tires in order to leave old tires for disposal, or they from page 1 the problem. may be charged a disposal or storage fee. They may organization that wishes to speak at the hearing or “I posted a photo of the truck on Facebook and also be directed to a waste tire site for self-disposal. present information complete a form that is available asked if anyone recognized it, and almost Most recycling centers in Florida accept up to online. Both to access and submit the form, go immediately people identified it.,” Letchworth said, four used tires per year from individuals, provided to https://form.jotform.com/ 203426093860050. adding that it appeared that the individual was a that the latter show proof of residency, such as a For additional information or if you have local resident with ties to a Leon County driver’s license or photo I.D., and a copy of a utility questions regarding the hearing, contact Shoaf’s business. bill or tax notice. office at (850) 508-3207 or email his staff She was informed that the offense was an Most Florida communities, Jefferson County at [email protected]. arrestable one. included, sponsor periodic hazardous waste days The courthouse annex is located at 435 W. “It’s represents two felony counts of illegal when residents are allowed to dispose of hazardous Walnut St. The hearing is scheduled to begin at 4 dumping,” Letchworth said, adding that it would waste, including old tires, at designated locations p.m. cost her department more than $1,000 to dispose of for free.

“It was decided that this was the most Alternate 1, which was to be drainage work. REPAVING appropriate step,” Barfield said. The court, however, noted that in its bid from page 1 Given that Waukeenah Highway’s resurfacing invitation, the county also asked for pricing on an “We will have to start over,” Shirley said, meaning that the county will have to resubmit a and widening has been a long-term goal of county Alternate 2, which entailed paving of the road’s grant application to the FDOT for the resurfacing officials, they remain hopeful that something can be shoulders. Per the court’s reading of the invitation to and widening of the road. done to expedite the project’s future selection for bid, however, the award of the project was not to be In the meantime, he advised, the county could another grant award, possibly by substituting it for based on Alternate 2, which the county expected to possibly take steps to address the safety concerns one of the other county projects under consideration fund, as it wasn’t part of the FDOT grant award. stemming from the road’s narrowness and poor by the FDOT. At the last minute, however, after the county had condition. Capital Asphalt Inc. (CAI), the plaintiff in the received the bids, the FDOT changed its mind and Commissioner J. T. Surles gave vent to ongoing litigation, filed its complaint in April after agreed to fund the paving of the shoulders, i.e., frustration, wondering if there wasn’t anything that the commission rejected its apparent low bid for the widening of the road. could be done to change the FDOT’s mind or hold road’s resurfacing because of ambiguity in the The judge noted that four contractors had bid on the contractor accountable, given that the ongoing county’s specifications. The county then rebid the the project, with all four bidding on the Base Bid litigation had caused the county to lose the project. plus Alternates 1 and 2, and all the bids, with funding. In late July, however, the judge in the case Alternate 2 included, still “were significantly below Shirley advised the board both against putting enjoined the county from awarding the contract to the $3,068,465 awarded by the FDOT.” the county in an adversarial position vis-à-vis the another contractor until further notice from the court, Here’s where it got sticky. The county, upon FDOT, given the large purse strings that the agency which put the project on hold. learning of the FDOT’s last-minute decision, tried to controls, as well as the county’s supplicant role in In its July 23 ruling, the court noted that base the award on the total package, including the the relationship and its need for future road funding although public bodies generally had the discretion shoulder paving. from the agency. to reject bids and rebid projects, “the discretion Again, quoting the court order: “Capital Asphalt, He also cautioned the board not even to suggest wasn’t unbridled.” a qualified bidder, submitted the lowest bid for the that the county might hold the litigious contractor “A public body may not reject bids and rebid if Base plus Alternate 1…Contractor Peavy submitted responsible for the loss and retaliate against the the decision is ‘arbitrary, unreasonable or the lowest bid for Base plus Alternate 1 plus latter in any way in the future. capricious,’” the judge wrote. Alternate 2…The county engineer recommended that “I advise you not to suggest anything that might In mid August, however, the judge dismissed the the project be awarded to Capital Asphalt as the be construed that the contractor will be blacklisted,” complaint against the county without prejudice. But lowest bid for the Base plus Alternate 1.” Shirley said. then CAI filed an amended complaint soon after and Because of alleged ambiguity on the bid Commissioner Betsy Barfield, who has a close the case was resurrected. invitation relative to how it would award the relationship with the FDOT, explained that the The problem essentially arose because of contract, it was Shirley’s advice that the board reject agency had been between a rock and a hard place. confusion with the county’s specifications, which all bids and rebid the project, based on the FDOT’s The decision, she said to Surles, hadn’t come called for the resurfacing of the Waukeenah refusal to allow the county to negotiate the shoulder about arbitrarily. The agency was facing an $18 Highway from U.S. 19 to U.S. 27, along with paving with CAI after the fact. million shortfall, and given that the legal complaint signage, striping and drainage work. The upshot of the confusion was that the county had been dragging in the court for sometime, it had Per the county’s invitation to bid, as quoted by rejected and rebid the project and CAI filed its been the advice of the department’s legal and the court, award of the contract was to be made to complaint, ultimately resulting in a lose/lose financial experts that it should drop the project. the lowest bidder for the combined Base Bid plus situation for both the county and CAI. Florida continues slow job recovery

Lazaro Aleman “October’s labor statistics reflect the continued unemployed persons out of a workforce of 5,729 ECB Publishing, Inc. effects of COVID-19 and the efforts to reopen and 5,558 employed. businesses and services,” the FDEO release Statewide, the industry losing the most jobs Florida continued its slow recovery of jobs in states. over the year continued to be leisure and October, dropping to a jobless rate of 6.5 percent, Another key point of the report: Florida lost hospitality, which lost 198,500 jobs, representing a down 0.7-percentage point from September’s 1,178,00 jobs from February to April 2020 and has -15.8-percent drop. revised rate of 7.2 percent, which the state since regained more than half the jobs, which Following leisure and hospitality, the originally reported as 7.6 percent. translates into 699,700 jobs. industries losing the most jobs, in order of ranking, Even so, a national survey of the 50 states plus Even so, the 8,593,200 employed in October were professional and business services, down the District of Columbia ranked Florida number 41 represents a decline of 407,600 jobs compared 49,100 jobs, -3.5 percent; total government, down in terms of the states that were rebounding the with October 2019. 39,000, -3.5 percent; trade, transportation and most since the start of the pandemic in April, when All 10 major industries, according to the utilities, down 37,700 jobs, -2.1 percent; education the state’s unemployment rate reached nearly 14 FDEO, “experienced negative over-the-year job and health services, down 25,600 jobs, -6.6 percent. growth in October.” percent; other services, down 23,200 jobs, -6.6 Per the most recent figures released by the In Jefferson County, the jobless rate was 5.1 percent; information, down 10,900 jobs, -7.9 Florida Department of Economic Opportunity percent in October, up from 4.4 percent in percent; construction, down 10,500 jobs, -1.8 (FDEO), 659,000 Floridians were jobless in September. percent; financial activities, down 7,100 jobs, -1.2 October out of a labor force of 10,109,000. The 5.1 percent translated into 278 percent; and manufacturing, down 5,900 jobs, -1.5 Meanwhile, the state’s seasonally adjusted unemployed persons out of a workforce of 5,419, percent. total nonagricultural employment was 8,593,200 in compared with 234 unemployed out of a workforce Wakulla County had the state’s lowest October, “an increase of 51,600 jobs over the of 5,375 in September, when the jobless rate was unemployment rate in October at 3.5 percent. St. month,” according to the FDEO. All told, the 4.4 percent. Johns County followed at 3.7 percent, Santa Rosa FDEO reports, the state has lost 407,600 jobs over In October, the county had 5,141 employed and Okaloosa Counties at 3.8 percent and the year, a decrease of 4.5 percent, compared with individuals, compared with the same number Lafayette and DeSoto Counties at 4.0 percent. 6.1 percent in job losses nationally. employed in September. Osceola County had the state’s highest Seasonally adjusted means that predictable In October 2019, Jefferson County’s jobless unemployment rate in October at 10. 4 percent. It seasonal patterns have been removed to reflect a rate was 3.0 percent, which was reflective of the was followed by Miami-Dade County at 8.8 more accurate picture of the employment and state’s overall low unemployment rate at the time. percent, Orange County at 8.5 percent, and Polk unemployment numbers. The 3.0 percent translated into 171 and Broward Counties at 7.3 percent. 4 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2020 • MONTICELLO NEWS Community News The Great Convergence, this year’s Christmas Star Kathrine Alderman ECB Publishing, Inc.

The universe has many secrets, and there is much we do not know about space and what exactly we're looking at when we stare up at the stars. Despite all the unknowns about the universe, there are some things science and math have been able to open up for us, even if it's just something cool that we can look up and see because we know it's coming.

On Monday, Dec. 21, Jupiter and Saturn, two of the largest planets in our solar system, will align in what is called the "great conjunction." According to EarthSky, astronomers use the word conjunction to people. The closest actually observable great degree apart, which is only 1/5 of a full moon describe a meeting of planets and other objects in conjunction before that was back in 1226. The next diameter. This sight will appear in the western sky our sky. They use the term "great conjunction" to one that will be visible and this close won't be until just after sunset. You don't have to wait until Dec. describe the meeting of Jupiter and Saturn, as they March 15, 2080. In 2000, at the last great 21 to start watching these celestial bodies, however. are two of the biggest planets. conjunction, Jupiter and Saturn were They are visible tonight and will be near each other This year, not only is this one of the near the sun in our sky, so it was for the rest of 2020. Between Nov. 21 and Dec. 21, closest great conjunctions since 1623, difficult to see. Jupiter will have traveled about six degrees and but it is also taking place on the This December, Jupiter Saturn will have traveled three degrees. December solstice. This means that the and Saturn will be only 0.1 The movement means that Jupiter will bridge conjunction will be far enough from the sunset that you can actually see the once every 20 years event. In 1623, according to EarthSky, the conjunction that occurred was only 13 degrees east of the sun, closely following sunset, and they consider it unlikely that it was noticed by many

A star map of the night sky as will be seen on Dec. 21, 2020, shows the alignment of Saturn and Jupiter that will create a bright “Christmas star” on the southwest horizon. (NASA/JPL)

the three-degree gap between itself and Saturn. Part of the appeal in watching this happen is that both Jupiter and Saturn shine really brightly. When they align, they create what looks like a very bright star, what some this year are calling the Christmas Star. Jupiter by itself is brighter than Saturn by 12 times, and Saturn shines as bright as a 1st magnitude star—some of the brightest stars in the sky—and shines with a distinctly golden color. If you are seeing them before their conjunction, Jupiter will be just to the west of Saturn. The way to distinguish the two planets from stars, other than Come Help Jefferson County their brightness, is that, unlike stars, the planets shine steadily and don't twinkle. Become Tobacco Free in the Community! According to EarthSky, Jupiter-Saturn conjunctions are the rarest bright planet About the Partnership conjunctions, as Saturn is the farthest and slowest The Tobacco Free Jefferson Partnership is a coalition of local citizens seeking to contribute moving planet that we can easily see with the eye to the creation of a tobacco-free cultural norm in Jefferson County through education, alone, while Jupiter is the second slowest bright youth advocacy and partnerships. planet. Saturn takes nearly 30 years to go around the sun full circle, and Jupiter takes about 12 years. Our partnership works with the Jefferson County Health Department to coordinate and So, every 20 years, Jupiter catches up to Saturn as organize local initiatives to support a tobacco-free lifestyle. viewed from Earth. EarthSky breaks down the math of the situation, sharing that it happens every 20 years because each Why should I join? year Saturn completes about 12 degrees of its orbit around the sun, and Jupiter completes around 30 PROMOTE adult Help PREVENT REDUCE or PROVIDE degrees. Therefore, in one year, Jupiter closes the and youth the use of tobacco eliminate the information gap by about 18 degrees (30 – 12 = 18). Then, in 20 partnerships to products by health hazards of regarding the years, Jupiter gains 360 degrees on Saturn (18 x 20 support and children, teens second-hand potentially = 360), lapping it once every 20 years. encourage and young adults. smoke. harmful effects of In short, after sunset on Dec. 21, this once every tobacco-free youth-targeted 20 years event shall be visible in our night sky. Just strategies and advertising and because it happens every 20 years doesn't tobacco cessation marketing. necessarily mean you'll be able to see it next time. Time of day has a lot to do with whether you can For more information on how to join the Tobacco Free Jefferson Partnership actually see the conjunction or not. So stand out in your yards or wherever you are on the December Email: [email protected] or call: (850)427-4041 solstice and view what some are, this year, calling the Christmas Star. MONTICELLO NEWS • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2020 • 5 Community News COMMUNITY CALENDAR [email protected] OR (850) 997-3568

December 16 The exhibit will continue through Jan. 2. Jefferson December 18 EaglesWings, a ministry division of First Presbyterian Arts, located at 575 W. Washington St., is open for The Christ Community Food Pantry will be having Church, will hold a food giveaway with distribution regular business hours Wednesdays and Saturdays their food distribution a week early due to the on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., or you may call (850) 997- holidays. The distribution will take place the Friday the church, 290 E. Dogwood St. Stay in your vehicle. 3311 to schedule an appointment. You can also visit before Christmas from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at Christ A line-up of vehicles will progress through the event the galleries website at jeffersonartsgallery.com. Episcopal Church, located at 425 N. Cherry St. and volunteers will place food packages in your vehicles. December 17 The Monticello Church of the Nazarene, located at 1590 N. Jefferson St., December 16 will be opening their resource The Kiwanis Club meets at the Jefferson County center on Thursday from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. for Country Club every Wednesday at noon. people to come by and get what they need for the holidays. December 16 December 18 Jefferson Arts will be showing their Holiday Member The Rotary Club meets every Friday at the Chamber Show, "Peace, Love and Prosperity.” The gallery is of Commerce. Meetings start at 12 p.m., but they filled with holiday cheer, original gifts and ornaments. begin serving lunch at 11:45 a.m. Rotary: Helping for the holidays

Investment Lessons from 2020 As the year draws to a close, it’s fair to say that we’ve all learned something about the social, political, physical and environmental forces that have affected everyone. And, in some ways, our lives will be changed, perhaps permanently. But as an investor, what lessons can you learn from 2020?

Here are some to consider:

• The markets look ahead. Here’s something many investors discovered in 2020: Investment prices don’t always move in the same direction as the overall economy. ECB Publishing, Inc. photo by Steve Cordle, December 4, 2020 This might not have seemed apparent right after the COVID-19 pandemic struck in mid-February, as the Rotarians with some of the JOY toys that will be distributed Dec.18 pictured from left to right are: overall economy and the stock market took big hits. But Jason Brookins, Dr. Ana Likos, John Lilly and Ron Cichon. just about five weeks later, the markets began a rally that lasted several months. During this time, the economy also Steve Cordle exceeded the club’s totals from the last two years. recovered somewhat, but still remains on weak footing. ECB Publishing, Inc. In 2018 they collected 302 pounds, then in 2019, What can explain this discrepancy between the the Monticello Rotary Club picked up 223 pounds markets and economic activity? Essentially, economic numbers, such as the unemployment rate and gross Rotary International is an international service of peanut butter. The Rotary Club beat Kiwanis in domestic product (GDP), reflect what’s happening today, organization whose stated purpose is to bring the two clubs' annual rivalry, as the Kiwanis Club but the markets are always looking toward tomorrow, together business and professional leaders to only collected 387 pounds and 134 jars. which means they are anticipating a stronger economic recovery and the results that come with it, such as greater provide humanitarian service and advance goodwill The next big project for Rotary is the JOY Toys corporate earnings in 2021. No one can say for sure what and peace around the world. Like many towns, even that help perpetuate Christmas cheer by distributing the future holds, but you can usually know the market’s the smallest, Monticello has a Rotary Club active in toys to boys and girls in Jefferson County. In opinion by its performance. the community. preparation for that, most of the members adjourned • Opportunities will always exist for investors. When the Monticello Rotary Club held their to the old high school auditorium to sort the toys Although the coronavirus seems unprecedented, the equity markets have rebounded from many crises before it. From weekly meeting on Friday, Dec. 4, it was announced and prepare them for distribution, which will occur war to global financial meltdowns, the market has seen it that the club’s results in the annual Peanutbutter on Friday, Dec.18, at the old high school all. But even at the height of these events, when the Challenge exceeded results from the previous two auditorium, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Masks are markets might be most affected, individual segments or industries can do well. years! For the 2020 challenge, the club collected required, as is adhering to COVID-19 protocols. For example, in the current environment, when many 613 pounds of peanut butter, the most the club ever For further information, call John Lilly at (850) people have been forced to work and shop from home, and collected. The 613 pounds and 249 jars far 544-4197 (cell) or (850) 342-0187 (office). get their entertainment online, it’s probably not surprising that some parts of the technology sector have seen their economic activity grow, along with their stock prices. Here’s the key point: Investment opportunities always exist, especially in times of market stress – and smart investors will find them and incorporate them into their portfolios in a way that’s appropriate for their goals and Obituaries risk tolerance.

• Patience and discipline can pay dividends. As mentioned above, the stock market dropped sharply in the weeks immediately following the pandemic, but then Billy Gene Windham gained steadily for months afterward. Investors who tried to “cut losses” and exited the market likely did so at the Billy Gene Windham, 89, of Tallahassee passed Dothan, Ala., brothers-in-law, Ed Bruce (Marie) of wrong time and missed out on the beginning of the upturn. away Monday, Dec. 7, 2020. Ellijay, Ga., and Larry Kelly (Lydane) of Elberta, Unfortunately, this is not uncommon – investors who Windham was born Oct. 5, 1931, in Pike Ala.; grandchildren, Jessie, Jared, Jackson, Jason overreact to market declines often find themselves on the investment sidelines just when a new rally begins. Rather County, Ala., to Effie May and Alex Windham Sr. (Christy) and Devin Windham, Ariel Poppell than being reactive in this way, you may be better off He was an Air Force Veteran, and retired as an (Chris) and Tommy Campbell and a great- sticking with a long-term investment strategy, and buying Aircraft Mechanic with Eastern Airlines. grandchild, Kinzee Windham. and selling investments only when it makes sense for your situation, such as when you need to diversify your He was a Mason for 55 years Jackson #1, Order Windham is preceded in death by his parents, portfolio. of Eastern Star Chapter 119, and he was a great Effie May and Alex Windham, Sr.; a grandson, For many reasons, it’s unlikely that we’ll see anything story writer, poems were his specialty. He also Matthew Windham; his beloved step-mother, exactly like 2020 again. But some of the investment lessons we learned are applicable in every year – so keep enjoyed working in his yard, driving his tractor and Louise Tice Windham; brothers, Alex James them in mind for 2021 and beyond. farming. Windham Jr., W.C. Windham, Leon Messer and He is survived by his wife, JoAnn Windham; This article was written by Edward Jones for use by Billy Messer. your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. sons, Garry (Kim) and Galen (Raena) Windham No services are planned at this time. Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your attorney both of Tallahassee and or qualified tax advisor regarding your situation. Scott (Karen) Windham CAPITAL of Hutto, Texas; brothers, MONUMENT COMPANY Willard Messer (Linda) of Rehoboth, Ala., James GRANITE • MARBLE • BRONZE Windham (Delores) of Headland, Ala., Lee Your Vision - Your Budget Windham (Anna) of San CUSTOMIZED MONUMENTS Antonio, Texas, Johnnie BY DAVE PENDLETON Windham (Jan) of 850-567-3807 850-383-1300 6 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2020 • MONTICELLO NEWS Community News Jefferson Arts Gallery, wishing peace, love and prosperity to all

Kathrine Alderman Twice a year, the gallery has gallery. now is the ceiling and the windows, ECB Publishing, Inc. member shows. This means that all the The title for this year's show is though the glass was replaced in those. pieces on display were done by artists "Peace, Love and Prosperity," which For them, it was a labor of love, The Jefferson Arts Gallery, located who are members of the gallery. The the gallery chose because this past year though. The founders of the Jefferson at 575 W. Washington St. in levels vary from professional artists to has been awful for businesses, so Arts Gallery just wanted to create a Monticello, currently has their member those who have just started. The only they're wishing everyone peace, love place that was by artist, for artists, as show on display and will until requirement to take place in a member and prosperity in the coming year. well as bring more art into the Saturday, Jan. 2. show is simply being a member of the Other than the title, the art community here in Jefferson County. displayed in the gallery doesn't have a Along with its beautiful monthly specific theme or similar medium. The art shows, the gallery also gives classes pieces range from oil paintings to sometimes. Recently, there have been ornaments hung on Christmas trees. oil painting classes. They also generally Some pieces on display in the gallery have student classes and a student are also for sale, such as quilts, jewelry show, but they had to cancel both of and some handcrafted stockings. those this year due to COVID-19. In The Jefferson Arts Gallery itself is the back, they also have a small music a non-profit organization, and the studio set up where some people come Jefferson County School Board is to jam every other Tuesday. letting the Arts Gallery use the If you'd like more information on building. classes or the gallery in general, you When the Arts Gallery first got the can call the Jefferson Arts Gallery at building, it was in horrible shape, and (850) 997-3311. Their hours of they had to do a lot of work to get it up operation are Wednesday and Saturday and running as it is now. They had to from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. However, there tear out a lot of the building's interior, is sometimes someone there that can let all the way down to the joists in the you in outside of those hours. If you are floor, and redo most of the building. at the gallery and there is a car parked ECB Publishing, Inc. Photo By Kathrine Alderman, December 9, 2020 The only original part of the building near the backdoor, they are open. A view of the whole gallery shows the eclectic styles and mediums of art on display in the Jefferson Arts Gallery for their member show.

ECB Publishing, Inc. Photo By Kathrine Alderman, December 9, 2020 ECB Publishing, Inc. Photo By Kathrine Alderman, December 9, 2020 A piece by gallery member Linda VanBeck, titled “Snow”, helps give a For sale in the gallery, and just on display, is some handcrafted jewelry. wintery feel to show which takes place from December to January.

DGuIininIdEg Out

ECB Publishing, Inc. Photo By Kathrine Alderman, December 9, 2020 ECB Publishing, Inc. Photo By Kathrine Alderman, A drawing done with colored pencil by gallery December 9, 2020 member Susan Stubbs is displayed on the wall A quilted wall hanging on display in the for the member show. gallery, resting on a chair so you can see the full design.

ECB Publishing, Inc. Photo By Kathrine Alderman, ECB Publishing, Inc. Photo By Kathrine Alderman, Call Justice (850) 997-3568 December 9, 2020 December 9, 2020 Handmade ornaments decorate the Christ- Fabric works are also on display in the to ask about restaurant advertising! mas trees in the center of the gallery, displayed gallery. This piece was done by gallery member here are some of those ornaments. Alice Cappa. MONTICELLO NEWS • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2020 • 7 28th Annual Outback Riders Toy Ride rumbling through Valdosta Rick Patrick ECB Publishing, Inc.

On the afternoon of Saturday, Dec. 19, the sound of hundreds of “Harley hogs” will be heard roaring through downtown Valdosta as the Outback Riders hold their annual toy run. This year marks the 28th year that the local group of motorcycle enthusiasts have held the event which benefits the children of local surrounding counties. Each year, hundreds line the ECB Publishing, Inc. Photo. December 19, 2019 route to see and hear the hundreds of motorcycles; Motorcycle riders from all around North Florida and South Georgia can with many of the bikes, and some of the riders, brightly decorated for the festive be found each year in Valdosta, Ga., for the annual Toy Ride. Pictured here season. during last year’s event, left to right, are: Ken and Emerald Parsons, Santa Claus, Doug Thompson, Mona Kelley and Geri Ann and David Driggers. The cost to participate is a new, unwrapped toy which will go to the Lowndes County Salvation Army. All the toys collected will be distributed to families in Lowndes and surrounding counties. Any cash donations will go to help the Empty Stocking Fund, which also helps the Salvation Army. All participants will receive a door-prize ticket for one of many door-prizes that will be given away during the event. The first 500 people to register will also receive a helmet sticker and a vest pin. A 50/50 drawing will also be held. Proceeds from t-shirt sales and the 50/50 drawing will be used to help cover the costs of the toy run. The staging area this year will be at Cowboys Firepit Grill and Bar, located at 1088 Lakes Blvd., in Lake Park, Ga. Registration begins at 9 a.m. The blessing of the bikes will take place at 1:15 p.m. and kickstands will go up at 1:30 p.m. The 15-mile, police-escorted route will travel north on US Hwy 41 through downtown Valdosta to Five Points Shopping Center. Bikers may pre-register at Mikki's Bar on Northside Drive, in Valdosta. Free food will also be available at Mikki's after the toy run. ECB Publishing, Inc. Photo By Emerald Greene-Parsons. December 19, 2019 The toy run will take place, rain or shine, and all Hundreds of motorcycles show up each and every year in order to ride in the annual Outback Riders motorcycles are welcome. For more information, Toy Run. This annual event yield hundreds of toys for local needy children, for Christmas please call (229) 460-2521 or (229) 561-7125. Christmas with the Chamber of Commerce

Kathrine Alderman ECB Publishing, Inc.

On Tuesday, Dec. 1, the Monticello-Jefferson Chamber of Commerce had their Christmas party for this year. The theme was Walking in a Flannel Wonderland, and everyone was encouraged to come out to the event sporting their most festive flannel clothing. Unlike most years, the event took place in the yard of the Wirick-Simmons House, instead of at the Chamber of Commerce. There were hors d'oeuvres and food, donated by Carrie Ann's, Tupelo's and Mafia Pizza, and hot cocoa for everyone to enjoy. As the event was outside and it was rather cold that night, they had also set up heaters and a fire pit for attendees to warm up at. Despite the cold, there was a good showing of people for a night of socially distanced fun and networking.

ECB Publishing, Inc. Photo By Emerald Greene-Parsons, December 1, 2020 The annual Chamber Christmas party’s always full of good food and good friends, Pictured, from left to right, are: Tami Lester, Justin Hamilton, Carey Hamilton, Sheila Winchester and Mark Winchester.

ECB Publishing, Inc. Photo By Emerald Greene-Parsons, December 1, 2020 Susan Rissman ECB Publishing, Inc. Photo By Emerald Greene-Parsons, December 1, 2020 (left) and Denise Friends gathered together during the recent Chamber Christmas party Thompson (right pose in the yard of the Wirick-Simmons House. Pictured, from left to right, are: for a picture while Danny Collins, Katrina Richardson, Tami Lester, Ron Cichon and Julius enjoying the festivities at the Chamber of Commerce Christmas party.

ECB Publishing, Inc. Photo By Emerald Greene-Parsons, December 1, 2020 A large group enjoys the Chamber Christmas Party around a fire to help fight off the cold. Pictured, from left to right, are: Ginny Self, Amy McDaniel, ECB Publishing, Inc. Photo By Emerald Greene-Parsons, December 1, 2020 Michele Arceneaux, Katrina Richardson, Alice Sander, Becky Bennett, Hal Steve Rissman (left), Bill McRae (center) and Al Cooksey (right) stop to Bennett and Leslie Wilkinson. pose for a picture during the recent Chamber Christmas party. 8 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2020 • MONTICELLO NEWS

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How small businesses can prepare for a unique holiday season

MetroMedia feature discounted items, and small business owners can hit the ground running by announcing sales well When the famous ball dropped in Times Square in advance of the holiday season. Consumers have on New Year’s Eve and 2020 officially began, few adapted to lengthy delivery times during the outbreak, people might have anticipated what awaited the world and retail analysts predict many will begin shopping in the months ahead. By the end of March, a global earlier than ever before to account for potential pandemic had changed the way people across the delivery problems. By discounting items early, small globe lived their lives as governments scrambled to business owners can put themselves in position to prevent a potentially deadly virus from spreading. capitalize on early bird shoppers. No aspect of life has been left untouched by the • Keep sales going. The Bureau of Economic COVID-19 outbreak, including how people shop. Analysis noted that economic growth in the United Shop Stay-at-home measures and government-mandated States declined by 5 percent in the first quarter of Local closures proved a formidable challenge for small 2020, and in June the Congressional Budget Office business owners. Another challenge awaits such predicted that growth would ultimately decline by 38 businesses this holiday season, when consumers are percent. Such figures suggest that money will be tight expected to do much of their shopping online. this holiday season, and small business owners can Happy Holidays Many small businesses thrive on welcoming expect to compete for every dollar. By starting sales 850-997-5552 customers into their facilities. While no one can early and keeping those sales going throughout the 420 W. Washington St. •Monticello, Fla predict how long social distancing measures will holiday season, small business owners can put remain in place, it’s reasonable to assume that themselves in the best position possible to capitalize consumers may be hesitant on consumer spending, however limited that spending to visit stores en masse may be. this holiday season. But • Apply past experiences. Small businesses have the spirit of the holiday had more than a few litmus tests to gauge consumer season will return, and that behavior during the outbreak. Easter marked the first spirit will still compel major holiday to occur while stay-at-home restrictions consumers to look for gifts were in place, and since then retail holidays like for their loved ones. Small Mother’s Day and Father’s Day have come and gone. business owners looking to Small business owners can examine consumer capitalize on the holiday behavior during past retail holidays to inform their shopping season can try approaches to the coming holiday season. If these strategies as they consumers expressed a desire for gift packages that prepare for what promises reduced their need to make multiple shopping trips, to be a unique final month small business owners can design and promote gift of 2020. baskets filled with an assortment of products available • Start early. Holiday in their stores. Creativity figures to be a necessity to promotions typically attract customers this holiday season, and past retail holidays can inspire a new Happy approach. Holidays! Small businesses can confront the challenge of the coming holiday season Now have by embracing a handful of ChocolaChocolatete Bombs strategies to attract consumers during what Walker’s Landmark LLC promises to be a season (850) 997-2088 16912 North US 19 unlike any other in recent Lamont, Fl. 32336 memory. MONTICELLO NEWS • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2020 • 9

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

SUDOKU

CLUES ACROSS 51. Breaks apart 11. Eurasian ryegrass 36. Unconscious 1. Popular pickup truck 55. Register formally 12. Perform on stage 40. Missouri 4. Profoundly wise men (Brit. sp.) 13. Greek island 41. Firemen use them 9. Camera company 58. Worker 19. 10th month of the 45. Pig noise 14. Folk singer DiFranco 59. Chemical compound year (abbr.) 47. Greatly dismay 15. Passerine birds 60. Disgraced newsman 21. One point east of 48. Imitator 16. Plum-shaped fruit 64. Born of southeast 52. Moves by turning Here’s How It Works: used for preserves 65. Chemical substance 24. Belgian city over Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, 17. Popular kids channel 66. Supernatural powers 25. Praise excessively 53. Boxing’s GOAT broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a su- 18. Dodgers’ skipper 67. Clothes 26. River in France 54. Swarms with doku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each 20. Removes 68. Indy footballers 27. Edible lily bulbs 56. Margarines row, column and box. Each number can appear 22. The Atlantic is one 69. Moves forward 31. Quarterbacks take 57. Feudal superior only once in each row, column and box. You can 23. Badgerlike mammal 70. Midway between them 59. As fast as can be done figure out the order in which the numbers will 24. Foulness south and southeast 32. Organic compound 60. Reciprocal of a sine appear by using the numeric clues already pro- 28. Luke’s mentor __- 34. Tears down (Brit.) 61. Chinese city vided in the boxes. The more numbers you Wan CLUES DOWN 35. Beloved Hollywood 62. Tell on name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle! 29. Commercial 1. Driver alien 63. United 30. A type of gin 2. Bone cavities 31. Temptress 3. Menacing 33. Shuts in an enclosed 4. Where coaches patrol space 5. Greek mythological 37. Milligram figure 38. Actress Adams 6. War-based board 39. Strive to equal or game match 7. Midway between 41. Health insurance northeast and east 42. A detective’s source 8. 18-year period in 43. Small American rails astronomy 44. Alfred __, Brit. poet 9. Mid-century term 46. Crest of a hill used to describe 49. Atomic #52 Japanese-Americans 50. __ Caesar, comedian 10. Large bodies of water 10 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2020 • MONTICELLO NEWS School It’s no argument: Debate builds confidence Steve Cordle one-on-one setting, in a small group or in front of plan and work that plan. Johnson pointed out that ECB Publishing, Inc. a large audience, one must effectively a debate is similar in that a contestant does not communicate thoughts, ideas, beliefs and facts. merely take the lectern and start throwing The dictionary defines enthusiasm as “great Activities such as debate can build confidence arguments, cliches or talking points at an excitement for or interest in a subject or cause. A as a life skill. The Christian Science Monitor opponent. There is a lot of thought and skill source or cause of great excitement or interest.” reports that students speak highly of the merits involved as they prepare an orderly Enthusiastic is defined as “having or of participating in high school debate. Students presentation to articulate their position on the demonstrating enthusiasm. Filled with or profess that debate participation improves debated proposition. In a competitive characterized by enthusiasm. Prone to enthusiasm; research and analysis skills, debate, judges are looking at how zealous or devoted; passionate in devotion to a belief develops vocabulary, builds well the contestant understands or a principle, or the pursuit of an object.” confidence in public speaking the topic under discussion, how When meeting Dr. Marlon L. Johnson Ed.D, and teaches one to respect much factual information the enthusiasm and enthusiastic are some of the first opposing opinions. contestant uses, the delivery of things that come to mind. Johnson is new to the Johnson sees Somerset as an that information and the rebuttal Jefferson-Somerset faculty and was also recently environment that already to the opponent’s arguments. To appointed the newly formed debate team coach. A encourages confidence. “In this offer a rebuttal requires some native of Tallahassee, after graduating from FAMU in one school, the environment knowledge of what the opponent 2001, Johnson spent time in West Palm Beach. While alone breeds confidence,” he said, believes and why. As Johnson there, a friend of Johnson’s, who also happened to be a citing what he called a lot of tells his students, “you’re the expert. social studies teacher, suggested he try his hand at positivity in the Somerset You have to speak about this topic as teaching. Despite some reluctance, he decided to give environment. A misconception some if nobody knows what it is.” it a try and, as Johnson said, the rest is history. After have about debating is that it is solely The students at Jefferson- returning to Tallahassee and briefly working for the about winning arguments and that is Somerset have the nucleus to form an Florida Department of Revenue, Johnson re-entered not the case. There is a lot more to the excellent debate team. As Johnson the classroom at Jefferson-Somerset as the high school presentation in a high school debate said, “A lot of these students are intensive language arts teacher. Intensive language arts setting than merely arguing a highly intelligent, they say what they are composed of a comprehensive literacy curriculum particular point. As Johnson ECB Publishing, Inc. Steve Cordle believe and believe what they for students who need help getting to grade-level put it, “We’re not trying to November 30, 2020 say. Their arguments are not expectations. argue people down, we’re Dr. Marlon Johnson is the new debate filler, but they really care coach at Jefferson-Somerset. From the start of the school year, Somerset was trying to state the facts, state about things, so now let’s take organizing debate teams for the middle and high them passionately and know the pros and the cons. If it to the next level.” Johnson is highly confident that school grades, but some unexpected personnel someone has a different point of view, that is perfectly the students at Jefferson-Somerset have what it takes changes put it on hold. With Johnson on board as a fine.” to be competitive against schools like those in Leon coach, he has eight high school students on the team The desire to win is understandable, but not County; what they need are adults who can bring it out and will eventually expand to include middle school enough for a winning performance. A football team of them and push the students forward. A teacher like students. No matter what one does in life, effective does not just run out on the field and start hitting Johnson will do that and in the process, Jefferson and confident communication is a must. Whether in a jerseys with a different color; they must have a game County will be competitive in a whole new area. Homeschoolers put on Christmas play

ECB Publishing, Inc. Photo By Kathrine Alderman, December 10, 2020 Director Caitlin Roberts leads the audience in the final song, Joy to the ECB Publishing, Inc. Photo By Kathrine Alderman, December 10, 2020 World, as they sang with the cast. One set of reporters go out to meet the shepherds, trying to get Kathrine Alderman information on the big scoop in Bethlehem. ECB Publishing, Inc.

On Thursday, Dec. 10, the members of Jefferson County Homeschool Association, Inc. (JCHAI) held a short Christmas play at the Monticello Opera House. The play was titled “The Good News Flash” by David Cook and was about a group of reporters who were trying to find a big scoop in Bethlehem for their newspaper, “The Bethlehem Times.” For a quickly put together play, the kids did really well and it was a very fun way to tell the well known Christmas story. Caitlin Roberts directed the show and was the one who initiated the idea. She approached Tammy Brookins, another homeschool mom in JCHAI, and asked if they were doing anything for Christmas. Once they realized they weren't, they decided that they could put something together quickly. “If you start something now, you can always have time to plan it better next year,” Roberts said. So they ordered a play book that was full of plays you could do with only one rehearsal and set to work. Though the cast did a bit more than one rehearsal, they put together and put on a wonderful play in a short amount of time, complete with some traditional Christmas songs such as “The First Noel”, “Away in a Manger” and more. ECB Publishing, Inc. Photo By Kathrine Alderman, December 10, 2020 The crowd was filled with family and friends and the kids seemed to have a Another group of reporters interview an innkeeper, who happened to great time telling the story of the “best news ever told.” give a pregnant woman and her husband a place to stay in her barn.

ECB Publishing, Inc. Photo By Kathrine Alderman, December 10, 2020 The Bethlehem Times has a meeting as their chief tells them she knows ECB Publishing, Inc. Photo By Kathrine Alderman, December 10, 2020 there is a big scoop in Bethlehem tonight and she needs her reporters to All the reporters found their way to the barn where Mary and Joseph sat find out what is happening. with the newborn baby Jesus, finding the big story they were looking for. MONTICELLO NEWS • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2020 • 11 Faith & Family Humbly Born Porch de Salomon • Panajachel, Guatemala • www.porchdesalomon.org

Photos Courtesy of Lloyd Monroe Mayra and Ezequiel’s family life was first disrupted by his alcoholism (he’s been sober for years now!) and then the pandemic. When there’s work, Mayra (with a second-grade education) earns $2 per day sewing and Ezequiel (with a sixth-grade education) earns $4 per day as a baker. These photos depict their very humble abode. Porch will build them a new house, God be praised, in their village. Please consider funding it ($7800) in honor or memory of a loved one. Gracias! I’m happy to answer your questions: [email protected] or (850) 688-2076. Submitted by: Lloyd Monroe

Jesus our brother, strong and good, Was humbly born in a stable rude. And the friendly beasts around him stood. Jesus our brother, strong and good. --From the traditional carol, The Friendly Beasts

2020 has been a year which has humbled much of the world. It was born with such great promise. Then, the pandemic transformed it into a strange and challenging time. It has been a hard year for many of Guatemala’s indigenous people, and for Panajachel’s tourism-based economy. We at Porch de Salomon are humbled and thankful to have been able to press on in impactful ways despite the pandemic and the Photo Courtesy of Lloyd Monroe cancellation of so many short-term Porch’s relief staff distributed Christmas gifts in various indigenous villages the past two years. For many of the team visits. Our “strong and good” children, this was the only gift they received. This project is the brain child of our Hilda, Jeydi and Eugenia, themselves mission partners, including those indigenous (pictured). Might you make a tax-deductible donation to cover our $800 cost, in whole or part? from Jefferson County, have provided the funds and encouragement to do that. Thank you and may God bless you all. Lloyd, Melanie, our Guatemalan staff and stateside volunteers.

Please see our complete December PorchTalk newsletter at: https://porchdesalomon.org/wp- content/uploads/2020/12/December -2020-PorchTalk.pdf

Photo Courtesy of Lloyd Monroe We have numerous gift donation opportunities available, including a month’s protein-rich food for a Guatemalan Photo Courtesy of Lloyd Monroe family. Guatemala continues to suffer from the world’s ten-worst chronic malnutrition rate. You may see other giving This little girl received a doll to opportunities in our December newsletter at: https://porchdesalomon.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/December-2020- replace her headless one last year. PorchTalk.pdf 12 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2020 • MONTICELLO NEWS Faith & Family

MONTICELLO Calvary Baptist Church Area churches to hold 285 Magnolia St. • Monticello • 997-2165 cbcflorida.org Dr. David E. Walker, Pastor Sunday School ...... 9:45 AM Holiday Services Sunday Morning Worship ...... 11:00 AM Sunday Evening ...... 6:00 PM Wednesday Evening ...... 7:00 PM December 16 (Tonight) December 20 First United Methodist Church (FUMC), 325 First Baptist Church of Lloyd (FBCL) is Central Baptist Church W. Walnut St., will host their Service of Hope hosting a Drive-thru Christmas celebration from 625 Tindell Rd. • Aucilla • 997-2081 and Remembrance at 7 p.m. Senior Pastor Jon 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. At 6:30 p.m., FBCL will P.O. Box 163 • Monticello Brewster described the service as hold a candle-lighting service and both Pastor Daryl Adams “for those who have experienced activities will be held at their (850) 251-0129 Outdoor Worship Service...... 9:30 A.M loss and grief and would like a sanctuary located at 124 St. Sunday School...... 10:15 AM chance to remember their Louis St. in Lloyd. The whole Indoor Worship Service...... 11:00 AM Chior Practice...... 5:00 PM loved ones through the community is invited; Wednesday lighting of candles, songs further information can be Youth Group...... 5:30 PM and scripture.” For more obtained by calling the Collage Group...... 6:30 PM Prayer Meeting...... 6:45 PM information, call the church church office at (850) 997- office at (850) 997-5545. 5309. Central Church of Christ US 19 South at Cooper’s Pond Road December 20 December 24 (850) 997-1166 Elizabeth Baptist First United Methodist Minister Steve Cordle Church, 4124 Bassett Dairy Church, 325 W. Walnut St., will Sunday Bible School...... 10:00 AM Rd., will hold their Light of the host two Christmas Eve Services on Worship Hour...... 11:00 AM Wednesday World Musical performed by the Dec. 24 at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. For more Bible Study ...... 7:00 PM church choir during their 11 a.m. service. For more information, call the church office at (850) 997- information, call the church office at (850) 997- 5545. Christ Episcopal Church 8444. 425 N. Cherry St. • Monticello • 997-4116 ChristChurchMonticello.com Email: [email protected] Decisions, decisions Father Stephen Pessah Communicating the Good News Everybody has to make who you trust, who knows the Scriptures. It does not of Jesus Christ since 1840 decisions. You, the reader, necessarily have to be the minister; some of the best Adult and Children Sunday School...... 9:00 AM decided to pick up this godly advice I have been given came from people who Holy Eucharist...... 10:00 AM Nursery provided for children under 5 newspaper you hold in your never set foot in a seminary or Bible college. hand, eagerly anticipating Third: Have I prayed for guidance? Luke 6:12 Church of the Nazarene the pearls of wisdom your records Jesus praying all night before he selected his 12 humble columnist and apostles. Does that mean we, today, must pray all night 1590 N. Jefferson St. (US 19) reporter would bestow upon about some decisions? Maybe. You’ll have to determine (850) 997-3906 how much prayer is needed in your particular situation. [email protected] you (well, at least I’d like to Shawn and Bethany Grosvenor, Pastors think that my column had Have you spent a lot of time praying about this decision? Sunday School...... 9:45 AM something to do with it). No, I don’t mean you have decided and then asked God Morning Worship...... 10:45 AM Steve Cordle Anyway, while we all know retroactively to bless your efforts. I’m talking about Student Life Group...... 4:30 PM Columnist people who are good at asking God to point you in the right direction. For huge Central Church Tuesday Evening making quick, reasoned and decisions, you might even want to fast. Mens & Ladies Bible Study...... 6:00 PM of Christ important decisions, many Fourth: Have I weighed the pros and cons of this Saturday Spanish Church Services...... 7:30 PM people have problems making decisions for any number situation? Remember the Winn Dixie versus Publix of reasons. Some will even get tangled up over simple example that I mentioned earlier? There is no Scripture Cody Pentecostal Holiness choices such as what cereal to have for breakfast! Every on point telling you for which company you should once in a while, someone asks me for help to make work. So, look at other factors. If one job gives you 3812 Tram Rd. • Monticello • (850) 997-6774 decisions, mainly when dealing with a moral dilemma. Sundays off and thus, time to be with family and [email protected] Of particular interest is when decision-makers come to assemble with God’s people, that should be factored into Pastor Ken Turner Sunday School...... 10.00 AM me and ask, “how can I know what God wants me to do the equation. We all like to take jobs that pay a little Sunday Worship...... 11:00 AM in this situation?” or “I’m seeking guidance to make a more money, but if one job pays less but has a better Wednesday Bible Study...... 7:00 PM decision about (fill in the blank). There are many ways benefits package, you’ll need to figure out how that fits to answer such a question and for this week, I’d like to into your situation. Elizabeth Baptist Church suggest five steps to making decisions, particularly if Fifth: Make a decision. Do I take the job at Publix you are trying to get a handle on what God is directing or Winn Dixie? This is the part where you step out on 4124 Bassett Dairy Rd. • (850) 997-8444 Email: [email protected] you to do: faith and go for it. EVERYBODY exercises faith, even ebcmonticello.com First, ask yourself, “is there a Scriptural teaching or an atheist exercises faith in something. Now, you say, principle that is on point to the decision I am “OK, Cordle, Once I make my decision, how do I know Sunday Bible Study...... 9:45 AM contemplating?” Not every decision has Biblical it is the right or wise decision? How do I know it will Morning Worship Service...... 11:00 AM teaching to guide it. If choosing between a job at Winn work out?” The answer is quite simple: You don’t know Choir Practice...... 5:00 PM Dixie or Publix, you won’t find a passage on point to if your decision will work until you put it into action. Evening Worship Service...... 6:00 PM Wednesday that (but there might be other factors to consider and You might take the job at Winn Dixie only to find out it Bible Study/Prayer Meeting...... 6:00 PM we’ll look at them momentarily). If you are won’t work. Winn Dixie is a good company (so is RA’s/GA’s/Mission Friends/Youth contemplating opening a saloon, that does not set a Publix) and you, no doubt, are a good worker. However, Christin example and we know that drunkenness is a sin. you might be a bad match, or the situation does not work First Baptist Church of Monticello Forming a criminal enterprise is not something for out for many reasons. Maybe the hours are not what you which you will find a Biblical basis. wanted or the work is not what was promised. Perhaps 325 W. Washington St. Monticello (850) 997-2349 • fbcmonticello.org Second: Have I sought Godly Counsel? Notice the the boss is a class “A” jerk! There are no guarantees that Pastor Sean Vickers qualifier: GODLY counsel. You’re best friend might be a anything will work out. Next time you read Luke 8:22- Worship – Grow – Serve - Share great man or woman, but if he or she is not a Christian, 25 about the disciples getting into a boat and crossing Sunday do not go to them for godly counsel. Seek out someone the sea of Galilee only to go directly into a storm, notice Sunday Morning Bible Study...... 9:30 AM something: by getting into the boat, the apostles were Worship...... 10:45 AM ONTICELLO doing EXACTLY what Jesus said to do and they still Children’s Church (K5 - Second Grade) M Sunday Evening Bible Study...... 6:00 PM encountered a powerful storm, but were brought through Wednesday Greater Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church it. Family Meal...... 5:00 PM While these five suggested steps for decision Children’s Ministry...... 6:00 PM 690 Cypress St., Monticello • (850) 997-4375 making will not guarantee that EVERY decision will “Still standing on the promises of God” Youth Ministry...... 6:00 PM work out the way you want them to, they can give you Adult Prayer and Bible Study...... 6:00 PM Dr. Melvin Roberts, Pastor some peace of mind that you have done your due Choir Practice...... 7:00 PM Sunday Church School...... 10:00 A.M. Sunday Praise & Worship...... 11:15 A.M. diligence to make the best possible decision about life 2nd Sunday...... Youth Praise & Worship and all that comes with it. First Corinthian Church rd 3 Sunday...... Holy Communion That’s it for this week, I’m outta here. 955 Lemon St./ P.O. Box 1112, Monticello, 4th Sunday...... Individual Outreach Ministry (850) 545-2039 Wednesday [email protected] Prayer Meeting...... 6:30 P.M. Pastor John Jones Bible Study...... 7:00 P.M. MONTICELLO Sabbath Morning Worship...... 11:00 AM Wednesday/Friday Bible Study...... 6:30 PM Memorial M.B. Church Olive Baptist Church 7369 Boston Hwy. Monticello First Presbyterian Church 780 Second St. • Monticello • 997-4947 (850) 997-1596 Moderator J.B. Duval, Pastor Pastor David During 290 E. Dogwood St., Monticello • 997-2252 Sunday Church School...... 9:30 AM Sunday Bible Study...... 10:00 AM Sunday Worship (2nd, 3rd, 4th Sundays)....11:00 AM Sunday Worship...... 11:00 AM Sunday School...... 10:00 AM Youth Worship (2nd Sunday)...... 11:00 AM Sunday Evening...... 6:00 PM Sunday Worship...... 11:00 AM Wednesdays Wednesday Bible & Prayer Meeting...... 7:00 PM Prayer Meeting/Bible Study...... 7:00 PM First United Methodist Church St. Rilla Missionary Baptist Church 325 W. Walnut St., Monticello • 997-5545 New Hope Church of God Rev. Jonathan Brewster 13 Barrington Rd., Monticello monticelloFUMC.org 415 E. Palmer Mill Rd. • Monticello • 997-1119 (850) 997-8747 Sunday newhopecog.net “The Sunday Place To Be” Rev. James Mack, Pastor Praise & Worship...... 8:30 AM Pastor Dr. E. Bob Kuschel Sunday School...... 9:45 AM Sunday School...... 9:30 AM Sunday School...... 10:00 AM Morning Worship (1st and 3rd Sundays)...11:00 AM Traditional Worship...... 11:00 AM Worship Service...... 11:00 AM Thursday before Morning Worship Youth - Merge Students...... 6:00 PM Wed. Bible Study...... 7:00 PM Bible Study/Prayer Meeting...... 7:30 PM MONTICELLO NEWS • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2020 •13 Faith & Family Helping their neighbors

ECB Publishing, Inc. photo by Steve Cordle, December 4, 2020 A truck from Second Harvest brought needed help for Jefferson County ECB Publishing, Inc. photo by Steve Cordle, December 4, 2020 families. Bethel AME Church helped the community with a food distribution. Steve Cordle Urban League is a civil rights organization tracing its LOYD ECB Publishing, Inc. origin back many years and works to provide L economic empowerment, educational opportunities Transforming Life Church Assembly of God It’s been said that teamwork is what counts, and and the guarantee of civil rights for the underserved in one thing Monticello is good at is fostering teamwork America 1206 Springfield Rd., Lloyd among the people of our community. Teamwork came Monticello Police Chief Fred Mosely and other (850) 997-TLC7 [8527] together to help many families in Jefferson County. On officers from MPD were on hand to assist with traffic Pastors Tim and Beverly Buchholtz TransformingLifeChurch.com Friday, Dec. 5, Margaret Franklin, Executive Director control, as the lines were wrapped around three city Sunday of Franklin Academy, coordinated the distribution of blocks. Because of the economic situation brought Sunday School...... 9:30 AM food boxes held at the Bethel AME Church in about by COVID-19, there are many families needing Celebration Service & Children’s Church...... 10:30 AM Monticello. Also involved were Second Harvest, The help and turning to an assortment of government aid Evening Prayer...... 6:00 PM

Capital City Democratic Women’s Club, The Jefferson and private sources for relief. Monday - 7 PM Living Free Small Groups County Woman’s Democratic Club and the Urban In addition to the food, there were many new League of Tallahassee. stuffed animals for the children who came through the Wednesday - 7 PM The Democrat Woman’s club has approximately line. Thank you to everyone who helped our Adult Bible Study • TLC Youth Group • TLC Kid’s Club 3,500 members statewide, divided into 13 regions. The community! First Baptist Church of Lloyd

124 St. Louis St., Lloyd • (850) 997-5309 CHURCH MEMBER SPOTLIGHT Pastor Jered Day fbclloyd.net •[email protected] Sunday Sunday School...... 9:15 AM Nicholas Ochoa Praise & Worship...... 10:30 AM KidzQuest...... 5:30 PM Youth Group...... 6:00 PM Evening Praise & Worship...... 6:00 PM Wednesday Family Supper...... 5:30 PM Children’s Music, Missions and More...... 6:30 PM Youth Group...... 6:30 PM Steve Cordle Tallahassee and the Washington Street Church of Worship on Wednesday...... 6:30 PM ECB Publishing, Inc. Christ in Quincy. College and Career...... 8:00 PM Ochoa has spent his working life as a truck Other Nicholas Ochoa came to the United States from driver, with 29 years on the road. Much of the Crafty Ladies Thursday...... 9:30 AM Honduras 29 years ago and, since 2015, has been a time was spent collecting and transporting cattle member of the Central Church of Christ in and products for agricultural nurseries. TALLAHASSEE Monticello. Ochoa met Phil Carter, the Currently, he transports merchandise minister of the Central Church at the to various stores in Georgia. Capital Heights Baptist Church time, and the Spanish Minister Ochoa’s favorite part of 7150 Apalachee Pkwy., Tallahassee Henry Flores when he was church involvement is the chbaptistchurch.org looking for a church facility solid Biblical teaching he Pastor Derrick Burrus to share with a denominational gets at church; something that (850) 345-0425 Sunday School...... 10:00 AM church Ochoa was working is reflected in his favorite Sunday Worship...... 11:00 AM with at the time. After studying passage, which is Acts 16:31 Children’s Chapel...... 11:00 AM the Bible with Carter and “Believe in the Lord Jesus Sunday Evening...... 6:00 PM Flores, Ochoa and his wife Christ and you will be saved, Wednesday Evening...... 7:00 PM were baptized on Sept. 27, you and your household.” Prayer Meeting and Bible Study Classes for Students 2015. When the church sings, he Ochoa and his wife, likes, “Give thanks to the Concepcion, celebrated 30 Lord,” a song originally Indian Springs Baptist Church years of marriage before she ECB Publishing, Inc. photo by Steve Cordle, written in Spanish. 5593 Veterans Memorial Dr. (Hwy 59) passed away during the December 13, 2020 When he is not on the Tallahassee • (850) 893-5296 summer of this year. They Nicholas Ochoa, of the Central church road making deliveries or at indianspringsbaptistchurch.com [email protected] raised two children, a son of Christ in Monticello is this week’s church, Ochoa likes to spend church member spotlight. Rev. Greg Roberts Bomfilo, who is 23, and a time with his family and take Sunday School...... 9:45 AM daughter, Stephanie, is 24. During his time in the care of 13 heads of cattle raised for beef. Ochoa is a Sunday Worship...... 11:00 AM church, Ochoa has taught classes and preached in dedicated worker as well as church member making a Wednesday Monticello the Timberlane Church of Christ in difference in our community! Fellowship Meal...... 6:15 PM Prayer Meeting...... 7:00 PM Children/Youth Programs...... 7:00 PM

WACISSA Wacissa United Methodist Church

14492 Waukeenah Hwy., Wacissa P.O. Box 411 • (850) 997-2179 • wacissaumc.org

Adult Sunday School...... 9 AM Sunday Worship...... 10 AM Wednesday Dinner & Prayer Meeting...... 6 PM Youth Group...... 6 PM

WAUKEENAH Memories for Sale Waukeenah United Methodist See a photo in the newspaper that you would like to have a copy of? All photos that we 81 Methodist Church Rd., Waukeenah take for the newspaper are now available for purchase online. Whether it's a loved one, (850) 997-2171 • waukeenah-umc.org your best friend, or an important event, you can now get photos from our 2020 newspaper Pastor Tim Luther editions and other events we cover through our new photo online ordering system. You can Sunday Sunday School...... 10:00 AM order photos in several different formats -as a digital download for sharing on social media, Worship Service...... 11:00 AM or as a physical print of many different types, such as canvas prints, metal prints and paper Youth Group...... 5:00 PM prints. Wednesday Go to photos.ecbpublishing.com to view and buy your favorite photos. More photos Youth Group...... 6:00 PM Choir Practice...... 7:00 PM will be added as we cover events and stories throughout 2020 and beyond. waukeenahcemetery.com 14 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2020 • MONTICELLO NEWS CLASSIFIEDS PUBLIC NOTICES EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES NOTICE TO CREDITORS ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE

General News Reporter needed, for Now Hiring Nursing Staff IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR RESOLUTION 2020 - 14 the Monticello News and Jefferson RNs, LPNs - $2,000 Sign on Bonus JEFFERSON COUNTY, FLORIDA County Journal. Must be a team for Full Time PROBATE DIVISION ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE player, able to handle multiple tasks, CNAs - $1,000 Sign on Bonus for CITY OF MONTICELLO NUISANCE ABATEMENT and be able to cover a variety of Full Time IN RE: ESTATE OF File Number: 2020-CP-81 stories. You might be covering a Apply Online MCMH.US or Call TO: Victoria A and James M Crockett ribbon cutting one morning, a (850)973-2271 MARION DREXEL PIERSON, retirement party that afternoon, and MCMH is an Equal Opportunity Deceased. YOU ARE HEREBY ORDERED TO SHOW CAUSE: the Farm Family of The Year Employer ______/ A condition exists on certain property, and structures thereon, as set forth banquet the next day. Experience in Drug Free Workplace 12/9, 11, 16,18 ch below, which is in violation of Chapter 38, Monticello City Code and writing/reporting preferred, computer NOTICE TO CREDITORS constitutes a threat to the public health, safety, and general welfare. experience required. Must have an

excellent knowledge of English Positions available at North The administration of the estate of MARION DREXEL Address: grammar and its proper usage. Florida College, Madison FL: PIERSON, deceased, whose date of death was September 10, 2019, is 345 N. Olive Street, Monticello, Florida 32344 If you love to write, have a friendly Nurse Faculty; Director of Dual pending in the Circuit Court for Jefferson County, Florida, Probate can-do- attitude, a great work ethic, Enrollment; See www.nfc.edu Division under probate file # 2020-CP-81 , the address of which is 1 Legal Description: are organized, and self-motivated for details. Courthouse Circle, Monticello, Florida 32344. The names and LOTS 83 & 84 OPM ORB 345 P 54 & 566P923 then this job might be just for you. 12/16-01/01 addresses of the personal representative and the personal Apply in person only at the representative's attorney are set forth below. Parcel I.D. # 00-00-00-0360-0000-0830 Monticello News newspaper office, CDL drivers needed, Class B. Apply located at 180 W. Washington St., in in person only at Scruggs Concrete All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or Pursuant to a search of the Jefferson County property appraiser’s records Monticello, or email resume to Company, 186 SW Commerce Dr., in demands against decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is the property appears to be owned by: [email protected], or Madison. required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN Victoria A and James M Crockett you may call to set up an interview THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST time at 850-997-3568. SERVICES PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE The conditions at issue violate Monticello City Code Section(s) 38- OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. 35(1), 38-35(2), 38-35(3), 38-35(4), 38-35(5), and 38-35(12) and are SANTERIOUS LAWN CARE more fully described as abandoned structures which are unfit for (850) 508-6294 All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having human habitation or occupancy, with structural deficiencies, trash, All your Lawn needs handled, from claims or demands against decedent's estate must file their claims with high grass, weeds and underbrush, which all of are a hazard for mowing, landscaping, pressure this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST children and the community. washing and more. PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. rtn, nc A hearing is set for the 5th day of January, 2021 at 7:00 P.M. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET during the regular monthly City Council meeting to be conducted at TREE SERVICE FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE the Jefferson County Courthouse Annex, 435 W. Walnut Street, STUMP GRINDING WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. Monticello, Florida or at another location, or by virtual hearing, as MR. STUMP (850) 509-8530 may be authorized under Executive Orders issued by the Office of Quick Responses. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH the Governor in response to the COVID- 19 pandemic. Further ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER information concerning the exact location of the hearing should be THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. obtained by calling the City Clerk of the City of Monticello at 850- MEEETINGS 342-0292, and updated information regarding the hearing location The date of the first publication of this notice is December 9, will also be posted on the city website at www.cityofmonticello.us. NOTICE OF CITY LOCAL PLANNING AGENCY MEETING 2020 . A failure to respond or appear at the hearing shall be deemed an admission of the existence of a public nuisance and may result in The City Local Planning Agency will meet on December 21, 2020 at 7:00 the abatement of the nuisance by the City. p.m. ______Attorney for Personal Representative Personal Representative At said hearing, the property owner and mortgagee, if any, may present This meeting is scheduled as an in-person-only meeting due to the T. Buckingham Bird Richard J. Drexel, III all evidence and argument to show cause why the structures on the expiration on November 1, 2020 of Governor’s Executive Orders 20-69, P.O. Box 247 477 Hearthstone Lane, SE property should not be declared a public nuisance and why the removal 20-179 and 20-193 and 20-246 allowing local government virtual Monticello, Florida 32345 Marietta, Georgia 30067 or abatement of the public nuisance should not be required. If good and meetings. Due to limited space available for social distancing in the City (850) 997-3503 sufficient cause cannot be shown, the City Council may declare the Hall Council Chambers, the meeting is scheduled to take place at the [email protected] conditions on the property to be a public nuisance and shall require the Jefferson County Courthouse Annex located at 445 W. Palmer Mill Rd., 12/09, 12/16 removal or abatement of the public nuisance by the property owner within Monticello, Florida 32344. Participants and attendees will be required a time certain. If the property owner fails to abate the nuisance, the City to wear face masks per City Resolution 2020-08 and maintain social may do so with City forces or by independent contractor and levy the cost distancing at all times while entering and in the building. NOTICE OF INTENT of the abatement against the property as a special assessment. Such special assessment lien shall be coequal with the liens of all state, county, Due to the ongoing COVID19 pandemic, all in-person meetings are district, and municipal taxes and superior in dignity to mortgages and all subject to short-notice cancellation, change of format, and continuation. NOTICE OF INTENT TO USE UNIFORM METHOD OF other liens regardless of the date of recording. A failure to pay said lien Updated meeting information will be available by calling City Hall at COLLECTING may result in a loss of title to your property. 850-342-0292 or on the city’s website at www.cityofmonticello.us. NON-AD VALOREM ASSESSMENTS 12/02, 12/09, 12/16, 12/23

Copies of the agenda and packet material will be available online at Jefferson County, Florida (the “County”) hereby provides notice, www.cityofmonticello.us or by contacting the City Clerk at 850/342-0292 pursuant to section 197.3632(3)(a), Florida Statutes, of its intent to use REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL or at [email protected]. the uniform method of collecting non-ad valorem special assessments 12/16 to be levied within the County, for the cost of providing roadway JEFFERSON COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS REQUEST improvements, capital infrastructure, stormwater services, water and FOR PROPOSALS State Representative Jason Shoaf Announces Jefferson County Legislative wastewater facilities and neighborhood impro vements commencing for RFP# 20201223 - 01 Delegation Meeting the Fiscal Year beginning on October 1, 2021 and continuing until Professional Consultant Services for Wacissa River Access and Park State Representative Jason Shoaf (R-Port St. Joe), Chairman of the Jefferson discontinued by the County. The County will consider the adoption of a Improvements Planning County Legislative Delegation, today announced the annual Jefferson County resolution electing to use the uniform method of collecting such Legislative Delegation Hearing. The delegation will meet on Thursday, assessments authorized by section 197.3632, Florida Statutes, at a The Jefferson County Board of County Commissioners invites interested parties December 17, 2020 at 4PM ET in the Jefferson County Courthouse Annex public hearing to be held at 6:00 p.m. on December 17, 2020 at the to submit their proposal to provide services to conduct a feasibility study of located at 435 W Walnut Street in Monticello. Courthouse Annex, 435 W. Walnut Street, Monticello, Florida. Such properties in the area surrounding Jefferson County’s Wacissa River Park. The resolution will state the need for the levy and will contain a legal study will provide a fact-based management tool and will determine whether The delegation hearing is held annually so local officials, members of the public, description of the boundaries of the real property subject to the levy. property acquisition is feasible, reasonable, and economical. The proposal should and other interested parties have the additional opportunity to present legislative Copies of the proposed form of resolution, which contains the legal also address potential park access and use improvements to as yet undeveloped proposals or express opinions to their elected state representatives. The delegation description of the real property subject to the levy, are on file at the portions of the current River Park property to determine whether additional includes Senator Loranne Ausley (D-Tallahassee) and Representative Jason Clerk's Office, 1 Courthouse Circle, Monticello, Florida. All interested desired improvements can be accommodated within the boundaries of the existing Shoaf (R-Port St. Joe), Chairman. “Senator Ausley and I are honored to represent persons are invited to attend. parcel. To request a complete copy of the RFP please contact County the residents of Jefferson County in the legislature,” said Representative Shoaf. “I In the event any person decides to appeal any decision by the Coordinator, Parrish Barwick at 1484 S Jefferson St. Monticello, FL 32344; via e- look forward to convening locally, here in Jefferson County, and discussing state County with respect to any matter relating to the consideration of the mail at [email protected]; or Planning Official, Shannon Metty via issues that are of interest to local officials and residents.” resolution at the above-referenced public hearing, a record of the e-mail at [email protected]. Proposals are due no later than 4:00 p.m. proceeding may be needed and in such an event, such person may need ET on Friday December 23rd, 2020. The 2021 Regular Session of the Florida Legislature is scheduled to convene on to ensure that a verbatim record of the public hearing is made, which 12/02, 12/09, 12/16 March 2, 2021 in Tallahassee. record includes the testimony and evidence on which the appeal is to be based. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons For additional information or to be placed on the agenda for the hearing, contact needing a special accommodation or an interpreter to participate in this ADVERTISING NETWORK Representative Shoaf’s office at (850) 508-3207, email his staff at proceeding should contact the County Clerk at (850) 342-0287 prior to [email protected] and complete the Speaker Request Form the date of the hearing. OF FLORIDA online at https://form.jotform.com/203426093860050. Presenters who wish to provide supporting materials or handouts for inclusion in the Delegation DATED this 17th day of December 2020. Notebook must email it to Representative Shoaf’s office by 12PM on Tuesday, FLORIDA - STATEWIDE

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