BONIFAY — Visiting this week’s meeting of the Bonifay Kiwanis Club was Director of the Holmes County Health Department Rick Davis to speak with members about mosquitoes, mosquito-borne illnesses and the role that the Holmes County Health Department plays in education.

“As you all know, Florida has a climate that is conducive to mosquitoes,” said Davis. “They thrive in the warm, moist climate. There are more than 3,000 different species of mosquito and can be found almost any where in the world, including as far as Antarctica.”

Davis said that a little known fact is that only female mosquitoes bite and they do not need blood to survive.

“Mosquitoes actually eat mostly nectar,” he said. “Females are the only ones that bite and draw blood. For some strange reason they need the blood in order to reproduce.”

Another little known fact, said Davis, is that they prefer the blood of birds and smaller animals to human.

“We have flocks of chicken that we draw blood from to find out what’s going around in this area,” he said. “Last year the state of Florida only had one case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus, it just so happened to be in Holmes County.”

He explained that the EEE virus was a rare virus to contract because it would have to be transmitted directly from horse or exotic bird to human and not from human to human.

“It also helps that mosquitoes don’t like to travel,” said Davis. “Mosquitoes will only travel up to one mile from the area they were born.”

He said the one illness to truly be wary of is the West Nile Virus because it is more commonly found in our area.

“In humans, symptoms typically begin three to 14 days after being bitten and can cause serious illnesses in the elderly and those with compromised immune systems,” said Davis. “It should be taken seriously because it still has a three to 15 percent mortality rate.”

He explained there were 69 cases of the West Nile Virus and was concentrated in the Panhandle Area of Florida.

An odd occurrence, said Davis, was the reappearance of the Dengue Virus that resurfaced in 2010 after being absent in the United States for some time.

“The virus seemed to isolate itself in southern Florida,” he said. “There was one confirmed case in Okaloosa County, though they were able to confirm later that they contracted the virus from visiting somewhere else.”

The objective of the Holmes County Health Department, he said, is to “minimizing the number of human illnesses and deaths due to mosquito-borne illnesses.”

“Routine spraying is up to the local government body and there are grants available to help fund these endeavors,” said Davis. “We put out public notices when need be, which is usually after a natural disaster such as a flood or hurricane in which the mosquitoes become an strong issue. FEMA would not get involved until aerial spraying is required during a declared emergency.”

He said the best method is to remember to Drain and Cover.

Drain standing water to stop mosquitoes from multiplying:

Drain water from garbage cans, house gutters, buckets, pool covers, coolers, toys, flowerpots or any other containers where sprinkler or rain water has collected.

Discard old tires, drums, bottles, cans, pots and pans, broken appliances and other items that aren’t being used.

Empty and clean birdbaths and pet’s water bowls at least once or twice a week.

Protect boats and vehicles from rain with tarps that don’t accumulate water.

Maintain swimming pools in good condition and appropriately chlorinated.  Empty plastic swimming pools when not in use.

Cover skin with clothing or repellent:

Wear shoes, socks, and long pants and long-sleeves.  This type of protection may be necessary for people who must work in areas where mosquitoes are present.

Apply mosquito repellent to bare skin and clothing.  Use mosquito netting to protect children younger than 2 months old.

Cover doors and windows with screens to keep mosquitoes out of your house.  Repair broken screening on windows, doors, porches and patios.

Tips on Repellent Use

Always read label directions carefully for the approved usage before you apply a repellent.  Some repellents are not suitable for children.

Products with concentrations of up to 30 percent DEET are generally recommended.  Other US Environmental Protection Agency-approved repellents contain Picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR 3535.  These products are generally available at local pharmacies.  Look for active ingredients to be listed on the product label.

Apply insect repellent to exposed skin, or onto clothing, but not under clothing.

In protecting children, read label instructions to be sure the repellent is age-appropriate.  According to the CDC, mosquito repellents containing oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under the age of 3 years.  DEET is not recommended on children younger than 2 months old.

Avoid applying repellents to the hands of children.  Adults should apply repellent first to their own hands and then transfer it to the child’s skin and clothing.

If additional protection is necessary, apply a permethrin repellent directly to your clothing.  Again, always follow the manufacturer’s directions.

The Florida Department of Health (DOH) continues to conduct statewide surveillance for mosquito borne illnesses.   Residents of Florida are encouraged to report dead birds to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission web site at http://www.myfwc.com/bird/.  For more information, visit DOH’s Environmental Public Health web site at http://www.doh.state.fl.us/Environment/medicine/arboviral/index.htmlor call the Walton County Health Department at (850) 892-8021 or the Holmes County Health Department at (850) 547-8500.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Office of Law Enforcement is leading a joint investigation with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission regarding a video of a man jumping onto two manatees.

They are investigating a video posted on Facebook and You Tube that shows the subject doing a cannonball on top of what appears to be a manatee and a young calf swimming near a dock.

The Service is investigating possible violations of the Endangered Species Act.  Evidence obtained during the investigation may be forwarded to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida for possible prosecution.

Manatees are protected under the federal Endangered Species Act, the Marine Mammal Protection Act, as well as The Florida Marine Sanctuary Act.

The statute of limitations for the state is one year, which may bar state prosecution, as this event appears to have occurred over a year and a half ago.

Possible violations under the federal Endangered Species Act (which has a five year statute of limitations) could include “take.”  The act defines “take” to mean “to harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, or collect, or to attempt to engage in any such conduct.”

Any person who knowingly violates the take prohibition may be subject to criminal penalties of up to $100,000, or imprisonment for not more than one year, or both.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is the principal federal agency responsible for conserving, protecting and enhancing fish, wildlife and plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of American people. Visit the Service’s websites at http://www.fws.gov/southeast/ or http://www.fws.gov/

For more information on Florida’s endangered and threatened species visit: MyFWC.com/ImperiledSpecies and Facebook.com/MyFWC.

Today marks another milestone in Chipley’s colorful history as the beloved water tower, which has served so faithfully, lies in a mass of steel on the ground after being professionally demolished last night. 

Careful safety measures were in place with the closing of sixth street in the area and of the tower and provisions were made for interested onlookers to remain in a designated place to ensure  safety while watching  the dismantling of the historic landmark.

The longstanding edifice of Chipley’s heritage had not been in use for many years as the town’s source of water supply was moved to the Tommy McDonald Industrial Park when the new water tower was erected there. City fathers were advised a few months ago that the aging water tower was fast becoming a menacing safety hazard and plans were immediately begun for it’s safe removal.

The picture accompanying today’s article, also from the Kyle Ray album of old photographs, was made at the railroad and give the view of the town business district while looking south.   The old water tank stands tall and proud at the time this picture was made and the automobiles, shown in the background, tells the viewer that the date was as early as 1933.

Denny Wright, Chipley resident, told the writer that he was born in 1936 and that the Chipley Water Tower has always been a landmark in his life.

Linda Hayes Cook, longtime Clerk of Court in Washington County remembers the tower all of her life while living in Chipley. She reports that her brother, Francis Hayes, a descendant of a pioneer Washington County Family, and the local barber who is still working, has fond memories of the old water tower:  “He would walk to Chipley from our rural home to see his girlfriend, Mellie Lane. He would then go the water tank late at night to meet the Town Night Marshal, W.D. Sapp, as he completed his duties, and catch a ride home as the officer was our neighbor.”                          

Linda also confirmed, that at one time, some of the youths of the area would climb the tower, especially at graduation time and bravely write some crude graffiti on the tank, usually the initials of the school and the year of their graduation.  Our son, Tim, commented that climbing the tower as youngsters probably brought the training for these young men to apply for a job with local resident, Robert Strickland, who headed the company of installing water towers and painting existing towers.   Tim remembers that several local young men of that era worked for Robert.

Today also finds the local McDonald’s Restaurant missing from the landscape of Chipley as it, too, fell victim to the demolition wrecking crew early in the week. May 18 was the last opportunity for McDonald’s customer to eat their last Big Mac in the Chipley facility prior to its being razed for a much improved and beautiful structure. 

The original McDonald’s eatery made its debut in Chipley in 1981 and was owned and operated by Cecil Sandifer, who also owned the Bonifay and Marianna stores.  Don Barnes, Jerry Smelcer, Sr. and Paul Drayon are remembered as long time employees of the previous owners.

Two others owners followed Cecil Sandifer before Dennis LaRue and wife, Linda, Chicago natives, took the reins of the three business seven years ago. Dennis told me that he was in the banking business when the opportunity came to become associated with McDonald’s.                            

He reports receiving training in Los Angeles before beginning the businesses in this area.  Harold Stansell, who built the original McDonald’s store here, will be the builder for the new facility, according to Dennis. The present owners are excited about the new building, which is to be immediately under construction. The new structure is designed for easier access to the two drive-through windows. There will also be provisions to exit the premises to avoid re entering Highway 77.   There will be other improvement inside the restaurant, which will be beautifully decorated using historic pictures, and other items, depicting the heritage of the area.

Today also marks 31 years since the mammoth and historic two-day Railroad Centennial Celebration held in Chipley May 22-23, 1982. It was headed by Dick and Polly Kneiss, then relatively newcomers to our town. (The full story of this event is recorded in the “Heritage Book of Washington County,” page 76).

Also today, John Donald Brock and wife, Virgina of Panama City, could well be reading the above book as they purchased one May 7 while in town for the Vernon High School Alumni monthly luncheon.  His family of Brocks was included in a story for the above book, page 158, written by his sister, Dorothy Brock Peters, of Marianna.

Also enjoying the above-mentioned treasured book is Joe N. Hays of Hattiesburg, Mississippi.  He called me after leaning of the book in “Perry’s Prattle.” This gentlemen is 89 years old and was reared on Brickyard Road in Chipley by parents Charley Hays and wife, Martha Jane Levins (Leavins) Hays.   His book was mailed on May 8 and confirmation of delivery was shown as May13.

If the above Heritage Books needs any further promoting, I will report that copies can be obtained from both the Vernon and Chipley Historical Society museums.   My “limited supply” is down to 35 books and I hope to close out sales by the end of June.   Call me at 638-1016, or e mail perry1000@bellsouth.net and don’t miss out on getting your copy.  They remain at $64.20, or $72.00 when mailed.

See you all next week.

Early summer weather can provide the ultimate motivation to get outside and be active. The sun is shining, nature is in full blossom, and coats and earmuffs are no longer essential. Summer can give people a certain zest for fitness, but sometimes temperatures can turn good intentions into a sweltering mess. Incorporating new habits and precautions into your warm weather workouts can keep you safe, motivated, and cool. TOPS Club, Inc. (Take Off Pounds Sensibly), the nonprofit weight-loss support organization, offers the following tips to make the most of your summer fitness plans:

1. Fill up on fruit

Water-heavy fruits - like watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew, and grapes - are a great way to boost energy and replenish fluids lost after a workout. Containing more than 80 percent water, these fruits are easily digestible in the summer heat and are a tasty way to keep hydrated and satisfied. Eating them frozen also makes a refreshing summer treat.

2. Reroute for optimal shade

If your usual running, walking, or cycling route makes you an easy target for sun exposure, opt for a shadier course. Road Runners Club of America features running routes around the country on their website, www.rrca.org. Weather.com also offers local parks’ forecasts and a fitness comfort index by the hour - ideal for determining the best time of day to exercise.

3. Incorporate the season into your routine

Make summer chores part of your fitness plan for time-saving and warm weather-friendly exercise. Washing the car, gardening, taking the dog for a walk, and mowing the lawn, are all activities on your to-do list that burn calories as a bonus.

4. Pay attention to your heart rate

The hotter it is, the harder your body has to work - so if you normally run at a 9-minute-mile pace, when the temperature hits 90 degrees, you may find yourself having to slow down to a 10-minute-mile. Using a heart-rate monitor can help ensure that you aren’t pushing yourself too hard, which can lead to heat exhaustion and strokes. Deluxe heart monitors keep track of not only your heart, but also your speed, distance, pace, and calories burned. Models with fewer features can cost as little as $50.

5. Take the path less paved

Walking, running, or cycling on dirt or gravel paths can keep the body significantly cooler than paved paths. Asphalt and concrete tend to radiate heat and reflect the sun’s rays, making you feel hotter. Running near bodies of water also has a noticeable cooling effect.

6. Slow it down without sacrifice

To keep safe without giving up calorie burn, perform your regular cardio routine at a slightly slower pace, and then add in 30-second speed bursts every three to five minutes. You’ll maintain the same benefits and burn even more calories without exerting extreme effort the entire workout.

TOPS Club Inc. (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) is the original weight-loss support and wellness education organization. Founded more than 65 years ago, TOPS is the only nonprofit, noncommercial weight-loss organization of its kind. TOPS promotes successful weight management with a “Real People. Real Weight Loss.®” philosophy that combines support from others at weekly chapter meetings, healthy eating, regular exercise, and wellness information. TOPS has about 150,000 members – male and female, age seven and older – in nearly 9,000 chapters throughout the United States and Canada.

Visitors are welcome to attend their first TOPS meeting free of charge. To find a local chapter, view www.tops.org or call (800) 932-8677.

TALLAHASSEE — Emergency officials from across Florida stand ready to assist those affected by the Oklahoma tornado.

The state medical examiner's office in Oklahoma has revised the death toll from a tornado in an Oklahoma City suburb to 24 people, including nine children.

Spokeswoman Amy Elliott said Tuesday morning that she believes some victims were counted twice in the early chaos of the storm. Authorities said initially that as many as 51 people were dead, including 20 children.

Elliott says nine children are confirmed dead, including seven who were pulled from the wreckage of an elementary school in Moore, 10 miles south of Oklahoma City.

Teams are continuing to search the shattered community after the Monday afternoon tornado.

The Florida State Emergency Response Team is in communication with emergency officials in Oklahoma and is working through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact to support response efforts. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to those impacted by yesterday’s tornado in Oklahoma,” said Bryan W. Koon, Director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management. “Our teams are actively working through the proper channels to support the survivors and first responders as they work to respond to and recover from this devastating event.”

Governor Rick Scott reached out to Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin on Tuesday.

 “This morning I reached out to Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin and offered the heartfelt condolences of Floridians for families in the City of Moore whose community was devastated by yesterday’s tornado,” Scott said.

“Florida is offering to help Governor Fallin with the recovery by providing any state resources we can to help get this community back on its feet. These families desperately need our prayers and support, especially as they continue the search for their loved ones. Americans help one another  — especially in times of crisis — and I encourage Floridians to open their hearts and support credible organizations that are working to make this community whole again.”

All Floridians can help the survivors of this event by donating through established relief organizations. Donating cash through established relief organizations allows for versatility to meet needs as they arise.  If you have goods to donate, be sure to confirm the need through a relief organization before donating. “The best way people can help is to send a cash donation to an established relief agency,” said Volunteer Florida CEO Chester Spellman. “Material donations have to be sorted and transported, which can create more work for emergency responders. Cash is versatile, effective and meets survivors’ needs as quickly as possible.” Floridians who wish to assist those impacted by the Oklahoma tornado are encouraged to follow the “3 C’s” Cash, Confirm, and Connect. CASH — Financial gifts are the best way to immediately help survivors. Donate to an established relief organization. For a complete list of established relief organizations, visit: www.nvoad.org/members. CONFIRM — A community hit by disaster does not have the time, staffing or money to dispose of unneeded donations. Confirm any and all donations are needed before sending. CONNECT — Volunteers are a critical part of disaster response and recovery, but it is important to get connected to an established relief organization before traveling to impacted areas to help. For more information about how severe weather can affect Florida, and to Get A Plan!, visit www.FloridaDisaster.org,

VERNON — City Council members discussed the resignation of former City Attorney Kerry Adkison at Monday’s Vernon City Council workshop.

Adkison said his resignation was accepted by the council on a 3-2 vote on May 13, and came after some council members questioned Adkison’s responsiveness to the city’s needs.

“I told them I didn’t see the need for me going to a meeting and billing them $300 to $500 when a 10 minute phone call would suffice,” Adkison said on Tuesday morning.

The council was considering firing a city employee at a special workshop on May 3, and Adkison said advised against the action based on a lack of documentation.

The council members tried to call Adkison, but his office is closed on Fridays.

“This all started with the water department, and people complaining that the city wasn’t responsive to calls,” Adkison said. “When they couldn’t get me on the phone, they said I wasn’t responsive.”

Councilman Shawn Sanders suggested that the city may have to advertise the city attorney position, and Adkison told them he would resign.

“I never have billed them the way I should,” Adkison said. “I told Tray Hawkins that if they expected me to be always available, then I would have to start billing them for every little thing.”

Adkison said he took the city attorney position mainly because he is from Vernon and he wanted to help the city out. “I’m not mad at anyone or anything,” he said. “I think very highly of all of the council members. Mostly, I am just relieved.”

Vernon resident Bill Dobbins asked the council members at Monday’s workshop why they had accepted Adkison’s resignation.

“I would like to ask the city council to reconsider their vote,” Dobbins said. “This has left the city without an attorney, and that is not a good situation.”

Chairwoman Tina Sloan said Adkison was not responding to calls from City Clerk Dian Hendrix. “He was hard to get up with, and it wasn’t just Ms. Dian or the mayor,” she said.

“We don’t need to be paying someone to show up for meetings,” Sloan said.

Councilman Tray Hawkins asked if the city attorney position would be advertised, and Hendrix said that it was being advertised this week. He asked if the ad would list an hourly rate the city was willing to pay for legal services.

“They will submit bids saying what they will do the service for, then we will chose the one, that is the way we did it last time,” Hendrix said.

Hendrix said the Florida League of Cities could provide legal services in the meantime for the city.

For the Web edition of the Washington County News Weekend click here.

CHIPLEY — Lady Tigers basketball center Aaliyah Coleman signed a letter of intent with Chattahoochee Valley Community College on Monday at Chipley High School.

"It'w been a blessing to work with Aaliyah," said coach Heather Hingson. "She made a big difference for our team, especially from on the paint."

Hingston said she knew Coleman was wanting to play college ball, so when Chattahooche Valley came calling the coach encouraged her to go for it. "When you have the opportunity for a scholarship, and the blessings and talents to play, then you should take the chance," Hingston said.

"She is going to be a huge impact on the college program," the coach said.

BONIFAY — Even after a long year of hard work from volunteers, Relay For Life of Holmes County Committee Chairwoman DeAnna Oldham says the work doesn’t end with the Wrap-Up Party, which was held on Thursday, May 16.

“We are so close to our goal of $33,000 that it would be ridiculous to stop now,” said Oldham. “We had a rough year that seemed to throw so many obstacles at us, but we’ve seen the 22 cancer survivors that braved the rain and the mud and the muck to come out and support our endeavor and we remember why we’re raising this money. It’s for our friends, our family and all our loved ones touched by cancer and this is how we fight back.”

Committee member and volunteer Julia Bullington added that it’s not just for those battling cancer, but it’s for those battling cancer in Holmes County.

“Don’t forget we’ve got The Closet here, which provides scarves, bras, prosthetic breasts and so much more for our local people battling cancer,” said Bullington. “I can not begin to describe the changes I’ve seen with these simple services. I can hardly even think about it without crying, it is just that important to those who are living and battling cancer right here in Holmes County.”

Oldham said there was still time to raise money for that year and make the goal of $33,000, which will help pay for not only cancer research, but also local programs provided to cancer patients in Holmes County.

“This is why we do it,” said Oldham. “Because we can make a difference and we can make a difference right here and because it is more then worth it. We’ve been fighting the good fight and we’re so close, we can’t give up now.”

Bullington said that donations can still be made to the American Cancer Society, and even in memory or honor of a loved one. Send donations to the Holmes County Chamber of Commerce at 106 East Byrd Street; Bonifay, FL 32425.

For more information contact Oldham at 768-2675.

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, and while the dangers of melanoma are well known, it is important not to neglect the warning signs of the two most common types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), which can also become disfiguring and even deadly if not diagnosed and treated promptly. Because about 90 percent of nonmelanoma skin cancers are associated with exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, The Skin Cancer Foundation encourages everyone to practice proper sun protection and learn how to spot nonmelanoma skin cancers.

“Melanoma is the most talked about skin cancer because it’s the most deadly; however, basal and squamous cell carcinomas should be taken seriously as well,” says Perry Robins, MD, President of The Skin Cancer Foundation. “Most nonmelanoma skin cancers are preventable, if a complete sun protection regimen is followed. This is why protecting sun-exposed areas, such as the ears, nose and lips, and learning the warning signs of these common skin cancers, is so important.”

Between 40 and 50 percent of Americans who live to age 65 will be diagnosed with either a BCC or an SCC at least once. The Skin Cancer Foundation urges everyone to learn the facts about nonmelanoma skin cancers:

Basal Cell Carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer, with an estimated 2.8 million diagnosed annually in the US.

    * What causes it: BCC is usually caused by a combination of cumulative UV exposure and intense, occasional UV exposure, the kind you might experience on sunny vacations.

    * Interesting fact: BCCs sometimes resemble noncancerous skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema.

    * What to look for: Warning signs include an open sore, a reddish patch or irritated area, a shiny bump or nodule, a pink growth, and a scar-like area.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma is the second most common form of skin cancer, with an estimated 700,000 cases diagnosed in the US each year, resulting in approximately 2,500 deaths.

    * What causes it: SCC is mainly caused by cumulative UV exposure over the course of a lifetime.

    * Interesting fact: SCCs are most common in areas frequently exposed to the sun, such as the rim of the ear, lower lip, face, bald scalp, neck, hands, arms and legs.

    * What to look for: Warning signs include a scaly red patch, an elevated growth, an open sore, or a wart-like growth, and these lesions may sometimes bleed.

To properly protect against the dangers of skin cancer, follow The Skin Cancer Foundation’s Prevention Guidelines:

    * Seek the shade, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

    * Do not burn.

    * Avoid tanning and UV tanning booths.

    * Cover up with clothing, including a broad-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses.

    * Use a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher every day. For extended outdoor activity, use a water-resistant, broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.

    * Apply 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) of sunscreen to your entire body 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating.

    * Keep newborns out of the sun. Sunscreens should be used on babies over the age of six months.

    * Examine your skin head-to-toe every month.

    * See your physician every year for a professional skin exam.

For more information, visit SkinCancer.org.

VERNON — Vernon High School senior Hunter Dobbs signed with Lurleen B. Wallace Community College in Andalusia, Ala., on Thursday at the high school library. Friends and family were on hand for Dobbs’ scholarship signing.

“I want to thank everyone who came out today, and everyone who helped me get where I am today,” Dobbs said.

The senior, who plays catcher for Vernon, batted .384, stole 17 bases and had 26 runs batted in this year as a Yellow Jacket, baseball coach Travis Miller said.

“Hunter missed football season with a tore hamstring,” Miller said. “But he worked through it. Earlier this year he said he wanted to play college baseball.”

Dobbs went to a try-out at the college and was asked to sign with the school on the spot after the coaches saw him play.

“That isn’t something that happens everyday,” Miller said. “You don’t just go visit a college and have them ask you to sign up.

“When the coaches saw how hard Hunter works, they said, ‘this is the kind of guy we’re looking for,’” Miller said.

Web editions of Washington County News and Holmes County Times-Advertiser.

For the May 15 edition of the Washington County News click here.

For the May 15 edition of the Holmes County Times-Advertiser click here.

CHIPLEY — Three Caryville residents, two men and a woman, and a Ponce de Leon woman were arrested on May 15 by the Washington County Drug Task Force in connection with a narcotics investigation, according to a news release from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office. A three-year-old child was removed from the house.

Arrested were:

Thomas Ray Stricklen, 20, of Caryville, on charges of manufacturing methamphetamine and child neglect;

Tracy Nichole Bruner, 20, of Caryville,  on charges of child neglect, violation of probation, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of a controlled substance without prescription;

Christopher John Price, 26, of Caryville, on charges of manufacturing methamphetamine, possession of firearm in the commission of a felony, child neglect, possession drug paraphernalia and possession of a controlled substance without prescription; and

Zabbrina Gail Cook, 30, of Ponce de Leon, on charges of manufacturing methamphetamine, possession of firearm in the commission of a felony, child neglect, possession drug paraphernalia, possession of a controlled substance without prescription.

The Task Force consists of the Chipley Police Department and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with the State of Florida Probation and Parole. 

On May 15, Task Force Investigators received information about suspected illegal drug activity at a residence.  After arriving on scene, investigators were given permission by the homeowner to search the residence at 4581 E. Berry Street in Caryville.

 During the search, several bottles in active production of methamphetamine were found throughout the home, according to the release. 

In addition, items used in the manufacturing of methamphetamine, as well as finished product were discovered, according to police.

 A three-year-old child was found in the home at the time of the search.  Department of Children and Families was contacted and took the child into protective custody.

 Washington County Drug Task Force asks that anyone with information on illegal drug activity contact us at 638-TIPS (8477) or by email at tips@wcso.us.

SAND HILLS — A 30-year-old Panama City man was arrested Saturday morning after an overnight multi-agency manhunt.

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office reported the capture and arrest of Christopher Griner Saturday shortly before 8 a.m. in the Pine Log and Wood Road near the Sunny Hills development in Washington County. 

According to reports from the Bay and Washington County sheriff’s offices, this is what happened:

Bay County Sheriff Frank McKeithen was driving north on State 77 when a vehicle passed him at a high speed. McKeithen recognized the vehicle as possibly belonging to a man wanted on two felony warrants. Griner had been involved in a domestic argument Friday morning in Callaway in which shots were fired.

McKeithan pursued the vehicle to the Sand Hills area where Griner’s vehicle struck another car while traveling nearly 100 mph. Griner left the scene and McKeithen stopped to help the woman in the struck car. The woman was not seriously injured, according to BCSO.

Griner abandoned his vehicle and ran into a nearby wooded area.

WCSO responded and set up a perimeter in the area. Additional BCSO deputies responded as well as the BCSO helicopter and several tracking K9s.

The search for Griner continued until Saturday morning, when the Washington County Sheriff’s Office was called about a suspicious person who had walked out of the woods in the Sunny Hills area. WCSO deputies located Griner and took him into custody. Griner was near where he originally entered the woods.

Griner was arrested for violation of probation, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and shooting into an occupied dwelling.

In addition to the two sheriff’s departments, other agencies involved in the manhunt were the Florida Highway Patrol, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and Northwest Florida Reception Center K9 Team.

CHIPLEY — After much discussion, the Washington County Board of County Commissioners agreed on Wednesday to follow County Attorney Jeff Goodman’s advice and meet with a representative from an advertising firm about looking for a new county manager.

The board was meeting in their workshop in Chipley, prior to their regular monthly meeting, which will be held at 9 a.m. on Thursday.

Goodman informed the board that he would have a finished job description ready for the board’s approval on Thursday.

“This job description is a collaboration based on our needs using policies used by other counties,” said Goodman. “This agency is like a head-hunting firm that will not only expedite the process, but you’re going to find a broader base of candidates, using a non-biased third-party. I’ve got to add that if you’re not going to give this guy the authority to do his job then it’s best you don’t have one at all.”

The board agreed to review the job description at the next board meeting and meet with an agent from the firm at their June 30 meeting.

Interim Human Resources Director Albert Davis informed the board that with the updated job description for the public safety director, which excludes the emergency management requirements, the county would have to re-advertise for the position.

Commissioner Lynn Gothard inquired about the current applicants to which Davis responded that they are welcome to resubmit their application.

Goodman clarified with the board that there would first be a five-day, in-house advertisement of the position and that the board agreed that if there was someone qualifying for the position in-house, then they must be hired before advertising externally.

The board agreed to send Gothard to the city of Vernon as a representative of the board to discuss the city’s request to renew their Interlocal Agreement regarding the City of Vernon and Washington County’s library services.

“From what I’ve heard, they want to run it while we pay for it,” said Commissioner Todd Abbott.

Goodman advised them that it would be necessary for the protection of the board to find out what the city of Vernon’s intentions for the library is.

“The city needs to figure out if they want the library or not,” said Goodman.

Representing the Washington County Libraries was Linda Norton.

“We’ve got seven employees and four libraries,” said Norton. “We can’t keep it open any longer with this limited funding and staff.”

Norton accounted their present troubles — one was the agonizing process of removing WIC from the premises with the help of the city of Vernon agreeing to move the WIC office to the City Hall, giving that portion back to the library to use for adult and children reading programs.

Norton advised that in the next agreement the county should include the additional space that was once the gazebo area because that was how WIC was able to take over that portion of the library to begin with.

“They put WIC in the building under the guise of using it only once a month and then they moved in and took over,” said Norton.

Another issue was with inadequate lighting in the parking lot.

“The light is broken and now with the new construction we have additional parking,” said Norton. “Our employee doesn’t feel safe leaving at night with no lighting to get to her vehicle. We’ve put in numerous complaints but to no avail.”

Goodman had advised that with inadequate lighting and multiple reports that this was a considerable liability because the librarian is a county employee.

The board agreed to look into who is responsible for the lighting to see what can be done.

The board recognized Norton on her upcoming retirement after 21 years of service.

County Engineer Cliff Knauer informed the board that they were ready to send out bids for the mowing, which is a part of the additional Sunny Hills services.

After much discussion the board decided that the contract to bid out should be under the guidelines of pay per cycle with a minimum of 10 cycles guaranteed for the main roads and twice a year for the alternate side roads and would include descriptions for trash pickup and weed-eating services.

The current figures, Knauer explained, were based on the current mowing services and the description was based on current Florida Department of Transportation standards.

Goodman informed them that he had created a new draft ordinance for the MSBU, which was similar to the one in 2011 but excluded the MSBU Advisory Board.

“We’ve created budgeting guidelines to replace the necessity of the advisory board and to be completely transparent with the community and agrees to add addition services,” explained Goodman. “The annual assessment of money is to go to toward repaying their debt, mowing and additional lighting. After these expenses are taken out we’ve got a contingency of three to five percent that will be used for the next year’s services and after all those provisions are made then any addition money will go toward paying off their debt.”

Supervisor of Public Works Dallas Carter received permission to get rid of the old Sunny Hills Municipal Service Benefit Unit equipment by calling a scrap company to come pick it up and putting the money back into MSBU funds.

“Best thing to do is call a junk man to pick it up because it’s all scrap,” said Carter.

Gothard requested a workshop to be called to discuss updating the Policy Manual.

Goodman explained that there had been some delays in the updating due to the elections as well as revisions he was concerned with from a legal standpoint.

The board agreed to discuss updating the Policy Manual at the workshop they were holding on June 19, which was set to discuss the function and responsibility of Public Works.

Chairman Alan Bush request that the board consider putting a change in the policy to include budgeting for temporary pay increases for those who have to do additional work in a temporary position.

“I’m saying this because there had to be a temporary pay increase for (David) Corbin for the additional services he has taken on as our point of contact,” said Bush. “As of now there are no previsions in the policy for a temporary pay increase.”

Corbin was chosen by the board at the last BOCC meeting to serve as a “point of contact” between the board and the county employees while the county operates without a county administrator.

Carter informed the board that he needed $205,000 for fuel to continue running Public Works and $11,000 for material to patch the roads.

The board agreed to look into how they were going to fund these expenses.

Gothard suggested that with the Fourth of July coming up that they do as they did with Christmas and shut the yards down, but this time give the employees the option of working somewhere else if they don’t want to take the time off.

The board agreed Corbin’s request to look into a possible Budget Committee.

“We’re going to have to look into something considering the upcoming expenses from increases in Health Insurance and Medicaid,” said Abbott. “It’s going to be a tough, tough, tough budget year.”

Commissioner Charles Brock inquired about Amnesty Day.

Corbin informed him that it was taken out of the budget because the county couldn’t afford the $10,000 it took to run the yearly program.

After much discussion the board agreed to ask Waste Management if they would be willing to donate one day out of the year as charity.

The board agreed to place the District 14 Medical Examiner Reappointment on the agenda for the next meeting.

“This is just a formality to see if we will support their decision,” said Bush. “There’s a reappointment every three years. Last I heard they’ve had over 50 replies and it’s all been good.”

The board also agreed to place a variance request for a resident on Gainer Road on the agenda for the next meeting.

“I just feel it isn’t right that this man has to jump through so many hoops just to give his son some of his land,” said Bush. “In this time of economic problems we need to be promoting development.”

Planning Department Director Mike DeRuntz explained that it was an unusual request because the request was for an irregular shaped lot.

Director of UF IFAS Washington County Extension, Julie Dillard, was present to announce the new Agricultural Natural Resources Agent, Mark Mauldin, and informed the board that Mauldin would be available to the board for introductions at their next meeting.

Dillard also requested support from the board for a study to be conducted in regards to the new broadband expansion to take place for the county.

“The study will show how much we do in efforts to save money and will be no cost to the county,” said Dillard. “An example would be how much money we could save by having video conferences instead of traveling to all these meetings in Orlando and other distant places.”

Due to schedule conflicts because of the upcoming Florida Association of Counties meeting the board agreed to move their June meeting up to June 20, which will be the day after their scheduled workshop on June 19.

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CHIPLEY — A bill championed by the Washington County Chamber of Commerce made it through both the Florida Legislature, but not without some political maneuvering, said Representative Marti Coley (R- District 5) on Thursday in Chipley.

 “This was a most productive Legislative session, maybe the most productive one since I have been in the Legislature,” Coley said.

Coley was in town visiting the Chamber’s Third Thursday breakfast meeting at Northwest Florida Community Hospital. Coley is the Speaker of the House pro tempore and has served in the House since 2005. Redistricting last year resulted in the Jackson County native becoming the representative for Washington County.

“Your Chamber director brought this idea to me of expanding the Enterprise Zones to make them work better for the rural counties,” Coley said, referring to Executive Director Ted Everett. “And he said, ‘You know, this isn’t just good for Washington County. It would be good for the whole state.’”

Coley said she was excited to be able to support legislation that was not only good for her district, but that could make a difference for the entire state. “There are rural areas down in south Florida, too,” she said. “And to me, this is where it becomes exciting to be a Representative — when you meet with people and they have ideas that make a difference for not just their region, but for everybody.”

The new legislation expands Enterprise Zones for up to three miles, and will extend existing zones for up to five miles.

Everett said this change in the Enterprise Zone laws could be huge for Washington County, especially in the Ebro area.  “This can be a huge game-changer for Ebro.”

He said the days of counties or cities working on their own to attract industry are over. “We have to work together, it has to be a regional effort these days to attract business,” Everett said. “For example, the mega-site project that has been in the works for Jackson County — when that happens, there could be 1,500 to 2,000 new jobs. Can you imagine what that would mean for all of us?”

Coley also said the 2013 Legislative Session was important for its concentration on education. “It was a great year for education,” she said. “Education is such an important key to having a strong economy.”

The Legislature found more money for the school districts, which Coley said should mean teachers will be receiving raises this year. The Legislature also passed legislation restructuring the educational paths for students.

She said the new legislation will provide three pathways for students to receive a standard high school diploma — a scholar track, leading to college studies, a career track that will offer professional certifications for high school graduates so they will have skills with which to gain employment after high school; and a standard track which will prepare students to have the math, science and reasoning skills needed to be employed.

“I spoke to a manager at a port in Panama City, and he told me that they had positions they were unable to fill, because the applicants could not pass a basic math and skills test required for employment,” Coley said.

Coley, a former teacher, said she gets excited when she talks about education.

“One of the great things about being in the Legislature, you deal with so many different topics, you can’t be an expert on them all. But when it comes to education, that’s my area of expertise.”

Another piece of legislation which had its genesis in the Panhandle was an agri-tourism bill, which grew out of Waterway South meetings that Coley and Everett attended a couple of years ago.

Coley said the House version of the agri-tourism bill was nearly sunk when an “interested party” convinced another representative to attach an amendment, which Coley said “gutted the bill.”  “It turned it into a ‘sounds pretty, looks pretty’ bill with no substance,” Coley said.

This was a problem because Coley had worked closely with Agricultural Commissioner Adam Putnam on creating the bill, and it had specific language that Putnam wanted in the bill.

However, the Senate version of the bill passed without any troublesome amendments, so the House was able to set their bill aside and adopt the unchanged Senate bill.

“The best legislation occurs when representatives listen to the people,” Coley said.

Jackson County Deputy Harold “Mike” Altman was on patrol the night of Jan. 30,

2007, near Sheriff John McDaniel’s house. He was the first to respond that night to a call for help from McDaniel’s wife, Mellie.

When Altman arrived at the McDaniel house, he was shot down by Lionel Sands and Daniel Brown, the two men who had followed Mellie McDaniel home and murdered her. Moments later, Sheriff McDaniel and several other officers arrived. A gun battle ensued, resulting in the death of Sands and Brown.

Altman’s sacrifice that night was recognized Thursday at the Florida Coalition Against Domestic Violence: Behind Closed Doors, 2013 Rural Training Institute at Chipola College in Marianna.

The institute gave a special presentation, the first of its kind, to Altman’s mother and father, Madeline and Harold Altman. Jackson County Sheriff Lou Roberts made the presentation, telling them that every law enforcement officer recognizes that at any moment they too may be asked to make the ultimate sacrifice.

“He was one of the most caring people I’ve ever known,” Roberts said. “He had a real compassion for people.”

Madeline Altman said her son died “doing what he loved best.”

She said after the ceremony that Deputy Altman would call her every night after work and tell her about her day.

“He wasn’t about locking people up,” she said. “He was about helping people.”

Deputy Altman will be honored again in a memorial on May 24 at the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office.

“This will be a memorial to honor our law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty, and their families,” Roberts said.

Poplar Springs — Poplar Springs High School held its annual Athletic Banquet Tuesday in the high school cafeteria.

Student athletes from cheerleading, basketball, baseball, and softball were all honored.

This year, the Holmes County Times-Advertiser presented the Jack Davis Memorial Award to the Poplar Springs High School outstanding male athlete of 2013, Colby Sorrells, and to the High School outstanding female athlete of 2013, Hadley Battles.

Beth Hall and Cody Pellam were named Athlete of the Year, while Kallie Rodriguez and Tanner Smith were named Miss and Mister Atomic.

Kelli McIntoshwas honored with the Durwood Corbitt Award.

For more photos, see the May 22 edition of the Holmes CountyTimes-Advertiser.

See photo gallery here.

BETHLEHEM — Bethlehem High School honored their athletes at the 2013 Bethlehem Athletic Banquet held on May 14.

Athletes from all sports, including volleyball, basketball, baseball, softball and golf were recognized as players and for their outstanding achievements.

Awarded the Black and Gold Award, which is the school’s recognition for the most talented and achieved male and female athlete was BJ Stephens and Summer Potter.

For more on the 2013 Bethlehem Athletic Banquet check out our next edition of the Holmes County Times-Advertiser.

See photo gallery here.