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Transcript of December 12, 2013 Edition
Volume: 5 Issue: 25 December 12, 2013 bi-weekly Edition
merald Star News E The
The BEST LIL’ NEWSPAPER in Walton county - from Freeport, Florida
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Inside this Edition:
Help Freeport families in
need of a Christmas
We have several families……..Page 2
A poverty, not education,
crisis in U.S. The latest results of the Program for Inter-
national Student Assessment — which
measures the knowledge …..…..Page 3
FREEPORT Mayor’s Post
See what the Mayor has to say….Page 5
Projects Approved For
Our Area Governor Rick Scott announced the third
set of Natural Resource Damage Assess-
ment early restoration projects ...Page 7
Show–off Freeport right!
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Hello….it’s that wonderful time of the year for most of you
all. But for some the times are harder than they appear to
you. You cannot assume the smile is genuine when there is
so much struggle from within a person. Economically the nation is dis-
guising the ugly truth about poverty and the welfare of your fellow citizen.
I remembered this story from some time ago but it is a touching story. I’d like to share
with you all to read now. Have a safe and Happy holidays….Merry Christmas!!
The Night of Oranges By Flavius Stan
It is Christmas Eve in 1989 in Timisoara and the ice is still dirty from the boots of the
Romanian revolution. The dictator Nicolae Ceausescu had been deposed a few days
before, and on Christmas Day he would be executed by firing squad. I am in the center
of the city with my friends, empty now of the crowds that prayed outside the cathedral
during the worst of the fighting. My friends and I still hear shots here and there. Our
cold hands are gray like the sky above us, and we want to see a movie.
There is a rumor that there will be oranges for sale tonight. Hundreds of people are al-
ready waiting in line. We were used to such lines under the former Communist Govern-
ment-lines for bread, lines for meat, lines for everything. Families would wait much of
the day for rationed items. As children, we would take turns for an hour or more, hold-
ing our family’s place in line.
But this line is different. There are children in Romania who don’t know what an orange
looks like. It is a special treat. Having the chance to eat a single orange will keep a child
happy for a week. It will also make him a hero in the eyes of his friends. For the first
time, someone is selling oranges by the kilo.
Suddenly I want to do something important: I want to give my brother a big surprise. He
is only eight years old, and I want him to celebrate Christmas with lots of oranges at the
table. I also want my parents to be proud of me.
So I call home and tell my parents that I’m going to be late. I forget about going to the
movie, leave my friends, and join the line.
People aren’t silent, upset, frustrated, as they were before the revolution; they are talk-
ing to one another about life, politics, and the new situation in the country.
The oranges are sold out of the back doorway of a food shop. The clerk has gone from
anonymity to unexpected importance. As he handles the oranges, he acts like a movie
star in front of his fans.
He moves his arms in an exaggerated manner as he tells the other workers where to go
and what to do. All I can do is stare at the stack of cardboard boxes, piled higher than
me. I have never seen so many oranges in my life.
Finally, it is my turn. It is 8 o’clock, and I have been waiting for six hours. It doesn’t
seem like a long time because my mind has been flying from the oranges in front of me
to my brother and then back to the oranges. I hand over the money I was going to spend
on the movie and watch each orange being thrown into my bag. I try to count them, but
I lose their number.
I am drunk with the idea of oranges. I put the bag inside my coat as if I want to absorb
their warmth. They aren’t heavy at all, and I feel that this is going to be the best Christ-
mas of my life. I begin thinking of how I am going to present my gift.
I get home and my father opens the door. He is amazed when he sees the oranges, and
we decide to hide them until dinner. At dessert that night, I give my brother the present.
Everyone is silent. They can’t believe it.
My brother doesn’t touch them. He is afraid even to look at them. Maybe they aren’t
real. Maybe they are an illusion, like everything else these days. We have to tell him he
can eat them before he has the courage to touch one of the oranges.
I stare at my brother eating the oranges. They are my oranges. My parents are proud of
me.
If you can afford to donate some gifts or money to needy families in the area. If you
need to know of a family in need please call 850-585-0262 and we can set you up with
the appropriate people. We know of 3 families in need of Christmas gifts/food now.
Editorial Views expressed in The EMERALD STAR NEWS do not necessarily reflect those of the
publisher. The staff of The EMERALD STAR NEWS pride ourselves in our efforts to ensure
accuracy of the publication contents. However, there is no guarantee of the accuracy of all the
Information nor the absence of errors and omissions (especially when sent through a third party); therefore, no responsibility can or will be assumed. 2500 copies printed bi-weekly.
Publisher/Editor
Frank Wolfe Jr.
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Contributing Editor - Dr. J. Corodan
Page 2 The EMERALD STAR NEWS Inc. Thursday, December 12, 2013
Look online: theemeraldstarnews.blogspot.com
Mail invoices and other information to:
P.O. Box 1133 Freeport, Florida 32439
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Page 3 The EMERALD STAR NEWS Inc. Thursday, December 12, 2013
Flu Caution As reported by WZEP AM 1460
The flu has cost the life of at least one in our area and many more have suffered
extended sick time. With the holidays bringing visitors, the flu has an even greater
chance of finding you. The Florida Department of Health in Walton County (DOH-
Walton) recommends flu vaccination due to an increase in Influenza-Like Illnesses
(ILI) in the Panhandle area.
Holly B. Holt, BSN, MSM, DOH-Walton Health Officer says they are encouraging
people who have not yet been vaccinated this season to get vaccinated now. She
says the flu season typically peaks in February and can last as late as May. And she
reminds you that it takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to de-
velop in the body which protect against the influenza virus infection.
The Centers for Disease Control recommends that everyone six months and older
get a yearly flu vaccine. Flu vaccination can reduce flu illnesses, doctors’ visits,
missed work due to flu, as well as prevent flu-related hospitalizations and deaths.
With the holidays in full swing and many people traveling, this simple precaution is
the best way to prevent the flu as well as flu-related complications that could lead
to severe illness, hospitalization and even death.
Additional flu prevention steps include washing your hands often, keeping your
hands away from your face and covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when
sneezing and coughing. Symptoms of the flu include headache, fever, severe cough,
runny nose or body aches. The Department recommends staying at home for at
least 24 hours after your fever is gone if you or your children are sick with a flu-
like illness, unless you need medical care. For more information about flu preven-
tion, visit http://www.floridahealth.gov/prevention-safety-and-wellness/flu-
prevention/index.html or http://www.cdc.gov/flu, or call CDC at 1-800-CDC-INFO
(800-232-4636).
Flu vaccines are offered in many locations, including doctor’s offices, clinics,
health departments, retail stores, pharmacies, health centers, and by many employ-
ers. It is important for you and your family members to get a flu vaccine every year.
Check with your physician or visit http://www.floridahealth.gov/prevention-safety-
and-wellness/flu-prvention/locate-a-flu-shot.html to search for a location to receive
a flu vaccine.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call DOH-Walton and Walton
Community Health Center at (850) 892-8015 or visit the website at http://
www.floridahealth.gov/chdwalton/index.html.
DOH works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida
through integrated state, county and community efforts
WCSO Vice/Narcotics Unit Arrest 5 for
Methamphetamine
As reported by WZEP AM1460
Multiple people were arrested for meth after a month long investigation. Tuesday the
Walton County Sheriff’s Office Investigators executed a search warrant after a month
long investigation at the residence of 49-year-old Donald Joseph Wood, of Landfill
Road. During the search, investigators located chemicals and paraphernalia used in the
manufacturing of methamphetamine; along with an excess of over 200 grams of
methamphetamine. Woods was arrested and charged with Manufacturing Metham-
phetamine (2nd Degree Felony), Trafficking in Methamphetamine (1st Degree Felony),
and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (1st Degree Misdemeanor).
The Sheriff’s office says they also arrested four others when they executed the search
warrant. Alexander Wood, 23, was arrested and charged with Possession of Metham-
phetamine (3rd Degree Felony) and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (1st Degree Mis-
demeanor). Tonya Michelle Davis, 35, was arrested and charged with Manufacturing
Methamphetamine (2nd Degree Felony). Joanna Leann Jackson, 22, was arrested and
charged with Possession of less than 20 grams of Marijuana (1st Degree Misdemeanor)
and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (1st Degree Misdemeanor). Allan Lee Nabors,
40, fled on foot from the residence but was taken into custody without incident. Nabors
was arrested and charged with Manufacturing Methamphetamine (2nd Degree Felony),
Trafficking in Methamphetamine (1st Degree Felony), Possession of a Listed Chemical
(2nd Degree Felony) and Resisting an Officer without Violence (1st Degree Misde-
meanor).
Deputies from the Walton County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Unit, K9 Unit, Patrol Bureau
and K9 Unit from the Walton Correctional Institute assisted in the apprehension of
Nabors. All five individuals were transported to the Walton County Department of Cor-
rections.
A poverty, not education, crisis in U.S. The latest results of the Program for International Student Assessment — which
measures the knowledge and skills of 15-year-old students in math, reading and sci-
ence — were released last week, and once again Finland is near the top. True, this
time students in Asia claimed many of the top spots. But Finland's system remains
one of the world's highest-performing, with its universal preschool program, site-
based management and dislike of standardized testing often cited for its success.
By comparison, U.S. student scores remained in the middle of the pack. But the most
telling difference between Finns and Americans when it comes to education is child
poverty.
Poverty is the most relevant factor in determining the outcome of a person's educa-
tional journey, and in Finland, the child poverty rate is about 5%. In the U.S., the rate
is almost five times as high. Unlike us, the Finns calculate the rate of poverty after
accounting for government aid, but the differences remain substantial.
Here's one data point worth remembering. When you measure the test scores of
American schools with a child poverty rate of less than 20%, our kids not only out-
perform the Finns, they outperform every nation in the world.
Half of students in poverty
But here's the really bad news. Two new studies on education and poverty were re-
ported in Education Week in October. The first from the Southern Education Founda-
tion reveals that nearly half of all U.S. public school students live in poverty. Poverty
has risen in every state since President Clinton left office.
Chew on that. The causes of poverty are complex and varied: excessive immigration,
tax policy, and the exportation and automation of manufacturing jobs. Yet the list of
solutions is strikingly short. Other than picking a kid's parents, it amounts to giving
all children access to a high-quality education.
Here's the catch-22. While the only long-term solution to poverty might be a good
education, a good education is seldom available to children living in poverty.
One reason is that spending on education has not kept pace with the rise in
child poverty. While poverty grew by 40% in the Midwest and 33% in the South
from 2001 to 2011, educational spending per pupil grew by only 12% in these
regions over the same 10-year period.
Helping Older
Adults Manage
the Outside
World
The world can become a scary place for an elderly person. If you're a
caregiver, these tips can help you help your loved one:
Know the route that Grandpa takes to his regular daytime activities.
Make sure Mom carries identification and your contact information
with her whenever she's out of the house.
Check that your parent's or grandparent's car is well maintained.
Check often for problems with windshield wipers, tires, and brakes.
Even those who drive safely by day may suffer night blindness, which
is common among older adults. Ride along with your loved one peri-
odically at different times of day to assess these skills.
AARP (formerly the American Association of Retired Persons) offers
driver safety information. It's designed to help troubleshoot a lot of
the problems older drivers develop, such as being blinded by bright
headlights. One solution is getting your older parent special glare-
reduction glasses.
Remove the distributor cap from Mom's car or take the keys if she
shouldn't be driving but is being really stubborn about it. Loss of the
ability to drive can be extremely upsetting for seniors -- many con-
sider it to be the single most difficult change they face. Recognize this
and work to set up practical transportation alternatives so Mom won't
feel completely stranded.
Take the time to teach Dad necessary public transportation routes (to
and from the senior center, for example). Accompany him the first
few times to make sure he knows what to do in case there are glitches.
Great gift idea: a small change purse filled with a supply of transpor-
tation tokens or the correct change if your mother's using a senior
discount pass.
Many individual organizations provide transportation to and from
their facilities or meetings. Examples are hospital or senior center
shuttles, or church or synagogue carpools. Make sure to look into
these options if Mom needs a way to get to the doctor's office or to
religious services.
If you add up the expense of owning a car -- paying for insurance,
gas, and maintenance, plus tolls -- it might not come out to much
more than your parent would spend if he hired a private car service,
assuming he doesn't drive more than a few times a week.
Arrange for a responsible teenager to help your parent on shopping
trips and other excursions.
Some local stores may offer home delivery: groceries, pharmacies,
laundries, and the like. Use these services as freely as possible. Keep
their phone numbers with you at all times.
Get to know the people who see your parent or grandparent every day
-- the neighbors, store owners, and mail carriers. They can be a valu-
able source of information when you need it.
When waiters are especially kind and patient with your party, be
sure your gratitude is reflected in your tip.
If Mom needs a walker but is too modest to make the change, she
might just take a nice sturdy shopping cart with her when she goes
out. It won't take the place of a walker, but she may come to realize
she does need the extra support that a walker can provide.
Try to take excursions during slow or off-peak hours if your loved one
tends to get overwhelmed.
Many theater, opera, music, and other arts organizations have
special senior discount programs.
Thursday, December 12, 2013 The EMERALD STAR NEWS Inc.
Health Post George Roll P.A.-C
Seagrove Medical Clinic
Call # 850-231-6200
Walk-ins and Appt.s
Send health questions or
comments to: P.O.Box 1133
Freeport, Florida 32439
850-835-2028
Page 4
Call for AJ’s -’tip of the week’
998 Bay Dr. Santa Rosa-Beach, Fl.32459
850-231-1473
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Ask yourself how can
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WOW, BIG SURPRISE, I HOPE
YOU ALL ARE SITTING DOWN!
-----------------------
Saturday marked the 72nd anniversary of the attack
onPearl Harbor, and while the nation remembers the
“day which will live in infamy,” apparently theO-
bama White House – not so much.
As of noon, neither the official Twitter account of
the White House nor President Obama’s had ac-
knowledged the attack on the base in Pearl Harbor,
Hawaii, even though that is the state of the presi-
dent’s birth, and the state he will spend Christmas
in. All past presidents have recognized before.
Serious Medical Symptoms
Some medical symptoms are warnings that you
need immediate care. Learn to recognize them.
That new symptom is troubling: the inexplicable
swelling in your calf or the blood in your urine.
Could it be serious or even life-threatening?
"Your body flashes signals -- symptoms and
signs -- that warn you of potential problems,"
Fortunately, many symptoms turn out not to be seri-
ous. For example, the majority of headaches stem
from stress, eyestrain, lack of sleep, dehydration,
caffeine withdrawal, and other mundane causes.
But a sudden, agonizing "thunderclap" headache
-- the worst of your life -- could mean bleeding in
the brain. Being able to recognize this serious symp-
tom and calling 911 may save your life.
Paralysis of the arms or legs, tingling, numbness,
confusion, dizziness, double vision, slurred speech,
trouble finding words, or weakness, especially on
one side of the face or body.
These are signs of stroke -- or a "brain attack" -- in
which arteries that supply oxygen to the brain be-
come blocked or rupture, causing brain tissue to die.
Chest pain or discomfort; pain in the arm, jaw,
or neck; breaking out in a cold sweat; extreme
weakness; nausea; vomiting; feeling faint; or
being short of breath. These are signs of heart
attack. If you get some of these symptoms, call 911
Page 5
The FREEPORT POST
Thursday, December 12, 2013 The Emerald Star News, Inc.
The Mayors Post Russ Barley Freeport Mayor
Please send any and all comments
to The [email protected]
Walton Area Chamber First
Friday Breakfast
As reported by WZEP AM1460 The Walton Area Chamber of Commerce held
its monthly First Friday Breakfast and the key-
note speaker was Walton county Administrator
Larry Jones. But an interesting story was when
the Chamber members and guests arrived at the
location, a local hotel that also housed a park-
ing lot full of Florida Power & Light trucks.
The trucks and workers were being briefed on
the winter storm as they prepare to help out in
Arkansas.
Jones, who has been in the job for about three
months, explained his job is to implement the
policies of the Walton County Commissioners.
He said the commissioners set the policy and
incentive and he and his staff carry these out.
He and his staff also make sure the commis-
sioners have the information they need to make
decisions. Walton has 501 employees under the
administrator.
The part of the annual budget he is responsible
for is not the total budget of $100 million.
Jones says they have about $70 million of the
total. Of this, only about 35% is funded through
ad valorem taxes.
Jones compared the County’s operation to a
business. He said, while a restaurant might
make and sell burgers or a major store might
sell, the County has many things to do. He said
it is very broad and huge. Under what he
termed the operations side, Jones said they have
areas like public safety, public works and com-
munity development. These were further de-
fined as Fire and EMS, building and maintain-
ing roads, animal control, building permits, and
other physical needs. The Administrative side
supports the commissioners, provides public
information, finance, helps veterans, operates
the libraries, housing and mapping.
Jones used his schedule for the last four days as
a way to show just how busy he is. He said this
is not to brag on himself, rather to show the
broad aspect of the county work. He talked
about an approach of Good to Great. He said
“Good to Great” is a book by Jim Collins that
says businesses should use caution in just being
good and not trying to become great. Jones has
taken this and implemented an initiative for
staff. He also said he asks staff to help make
people happy. While he admits you can not
always please everyone and they might not
always like the outcome, he said you can be
pleasant and leave them as happy as you can.
Jones says, if they can’t then they back up and
find another way.
WCSB Meeting
The Walton School District has a new Information Technology Officer,
Henry Martin. At the meeting last night, the Board also found out about
the Walton Education Foundation recognition of the Classroom Mini-
Grants recipients. Thirty-seven people received grants. The funds will be
put back into the classroom for supplies, technology or anything needed.
Superintendent Anderson said the Walton Education Foundation is funded
by donations and is not part of the District. She said it is not unlike a
booster club. They support the schools and students. Anyone can donated
to the foundation. The Foundation also maintains a clothes closet.
The Board approved contracts, the internal audit for the Charter Schools
and the personnel recommendations. Board member Faye Leddon said
she is pleased with the improvements in the audits. She also said she
wants to remind the principals to make sure they get receipts for any cash
handled. The use of gift cards was cited as a problem by the auditor. The
reason is the lack of ability to track. In this case the cards are being used
as an incentive. Board member Mark Davis said they have been doing this
for 25 years and they can’t tell them how to spend the money anyway.
The Board approved a temporary budget of $35.3 million for the Walton
Middle School rebuild. They also appointed Board member Gail Smith to
the calendar committee and approved a student expulsion.
Russ Barley- Mayor
Greetings from the Mayor’s Office- the holi-
days are among us and everyone seems to be
getting into the spirit of the season. The City of
Freeport Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting
was held on Dec. 6 and was well attended and
everyone seemed to enjoy all of the parade en-
tries and the entertainment and refreshments of
the tree lighting. The Town Planters Society of
Freeport will be having its Festival of Trees on
display this coming weekend, December 13-15,
at the Community Center, please go by and
show your support and enjoy the beauty of the
Christmas Trees. The city council meeting
normally scheduled for December 26th will not
take place and the next council meeting is
scheduled for January 7, 2014. The Pickin on
the Porch was held this past Sunday and was
enjoyed by all in attendance. The Freeport Fire
Department with the help of The Town Planter
Society was able to distribute 22 families
Thanksgiving Dinners for their enjoyment of
the holiday season many Thanks to all that help
with this endeavor. The city recently ran an ad
for a Lead Water Operator and we had no re-
sponse, now the council has decided that they
may contact a service company to take care of
this position. The Freeport Water Department
has been given the go ahead to make a purchase
of a new truck for their department and this will
be taking place soon. A special meeting has
been set up for January 8, 2014, to discuss the
additional funding needed for the fire depart-
ment. The current budget penciled in for the
Fire Department is $343,000.00 and the needed
amount is $488,000.00, so the council will de-
cide where to take the additional monies in
order to keep the Fire Department funded. A
Special Meeting is also scheduled for January
6, 2014 for the second reading of the Military
Sustainability LSA-01 and Christ the King
classroom expansion as well as an update on
the annexation for the city. The City Council
voted in the December 9th meeting to allow a
new Sewer Connection Agreement with cus-
tomers being able to pay $2,000.00 down and
the balance being financed over a period of
time. The City Council also voted to adopt a
resolution with the Okaloosa-Walton Transpor-
tation Planning Organization with Freeport
having a new board member and Council
Woman Elizabeth Brannon was appointed to
that position. Again the next scheduled regular
City Council meeting is set for January 7, 2014,
come and be heard and be a part of your com-
munity. Until next time, I look forward to hear-
ing from each of you and the Mayor’s Office is
always open.
Recessions May Contribute to Mental
Decline Later
European review looked at 12,000 people who'd lived through eco-
nomic downturns
Recessions can have long-lasting effects, and they may not be just fi-
nancial.
A new study has found that people affected by an economic downturn
in middle age may be at risk for mental decline later in life.
Researchers examined data from 12,000 people aged 50 and older in
11 European countries.
Men aged 50 to 74 who lived through four or more recessions by the
time they were in their mid- to late-40s had lower scores on mental
abilities such as memory, speech and math than those who did not ex-
perience a recession, the investigators found.
The impact of recessions on women appeared to occur at an earlier
age, according to a journal news release.
Job loss and having to take part-time work or lower-paying, lower-
status jobs may explain the toll that recessions can take on people's
mental abilities, suggested researcher Anja Leist, at the University of
Luxembourg, and colleagues.
Previous research has suggested that good working conditions may
help people build up a mental "reserve," which in turn affects mental
performance at a later age.
Although the study found an association between economic recessions
in mid-life and later declines in thinking skills, it did not prove a cause
-and-effect relationship.
Hypertension & Vision
Here's another reason to keep your blood pressure under control: High
blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the eyes, causing seri-
ous vision loss.
Thursday, December 12, 2013 The EMERALD STAR NEWS Inc. Page 6
Business Ads as
low as $25,
call today to find
out how!
850-585-0262
Projects Approved For
Our Area As reported by WZEP AM1460
Governor Rick Scott announced the third
set of Natural Resource Damage Assess-
ment early restoration projects proposed
by Florida’s Trustees to remedy damages
made by the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.
On April 20, 2011, BP agreed to provide
$1 billion in early restoration funds to
the Natural Resource Damage Assess-
ment Trustees for early restoration pro-
jects. The total 28 proposed early resto-
ration projects will be implemented
throughout affected panhandle counties
and are expected to utilize approximately
$88 million of Florida’s total allocation.
The first two sets of projects in Florida
put forth by the Trustees used approxi-
mately $12 million of Florida’s share of
the billion dollars. The first two sets of
projects include boat ramp and dune
restorations along with coastal conserva-
tion projects, which seek to remedy dam-
ages incurred by the Deepwater Horizon
oil spill and resulting response activities.
The third phase of projects includes a
$19 million marine fisheries hatchery
enhancement center in Escambia
County, a $12 million artificial reef crea-
tion and restoration regional project and
a $10 million restoration and recreation
project in Okaloosa County. Other pro-
jects include beach nourishment efforts,
habitat restoration, oyster reef and dune
restoration and increased recreation op-
portunities in the form of boat ramps,
beach access points and park improve-
ments.
Senator Don Gaetz, Senate President,
said, “I applaud Governor Scott, Secre-
tary Vinyard of the FDEP, and Nick
Wiley of FWC for their commitment to
the counties that have been affected by
the BP oil spill. The selection of the
Norriego Point Restoration and the
Habitat Restoration in Ft. Walton Beach
demonstrate the good work that comes
out of state and local communities work-
ing together.”
Walton County Commissioner Sara Co-
mander said, “I am excited to see the
proposal of several projects specifically
for Walton County as well as other re-
gional projects benefitting our county,
which will allow visitors and residents to
use our beautiful natural resources.”
Representative Marti Coley says many
of these projects will impact House Dis-
trict 5, including 6 proposed projects in
Bay County and 8 proposed projects in
Walton County. She says the proposed
recreational use projects will boost the
public’s use and enjoyment of those
natural resources.
DFS Council Meeting As reported by WZEP AM 1460
The DeFuniak Springs City Council Meeting opened to an overflowing chambers as
several items, including a request for a land use change on property that could become
an assisted living facility. The mayor also added the city hall land offer and sealed bids
to the agenda.
As the meeting started, Mitzi Graff talked about the upcoming Scottish Festival. It was
also noted Roger Leatherberry, the owner of McLain’s is in Sacred Heart on the Emer-
ald Coast.
Attorney Clay Adkinson explained the item before the Council was the first reading and
to advertise for a public hearing. He said people can speak, but they would not be on the
record for the specific item. He said they would not be adopting. That public hearing
will be January 13th. At that time people can be sworn in for testimony on the proposed
land use change. The question deals with the land use change of a residential home
across from Harbeson Field and the old Armoury. The COPE Center owns Magnolia
Terrace on 331 south. Due to the widening, they have to move the residents. After a
search, COPE chose the large home and land. Before they can submit a project, they
have to have the land use changed. If that approval is made, then they can come back
and seek approval of the building project, one that will double the size of the home. The
current request is a two step process as is the next step. Council approved the first read-
ing and advertising.
Steve Youell came back with an addendum of the offer from Thursday. At that time
they had increased the offer from $2.8 million to $3 million. Now it is at $3 million and
one thousand. New language will be added as far as the easement for the sign and water
well. The developer also asked for additional time for an inspection. There is also a
question of a sewer easement. Councilman Ron Kelley said he feels they should delay
any action to allow more time to seek the best offer. Youell said his clients would likely
not wait. Councilman Mac Carpenter said he would like to force the issue and made the
motion to accept the offer. Ennis made the second. Carpenter said this provides the nec-
essary capital for the city hall complex and perhaps the police department. He said this
will also help downtown and would take advantage of the market opportunity. The
mayor noted a gas station would also provide local option gas taxes. The mayor said he
would not want to miss the opportunity and they could shift the project elsewhere.
Campbell also called it a win-win situation. Kelley said he is in favor of the deal and
feels they hit the lottery. He said they do not know if they client would not wait. Mem-
ber Kermit Wright talked about the market and how making the decision to sell or wait
can be a problem. He said for some with Freeport or beach property that waited, they
missed the sell. He also said he was against the idea, but now is for it and there is even
more money. The proposal will have three buildings and four businesses. Three will be
national and one regional. One will be a gas station with additional features from a basic
convenience store. The motion to accept the offer passed 3-1 with Kelley the nay vote.
Council member Kermit Wright said he is concerned with the City Manager having
spending authority of approximately $10,000. He said he has no problem with the city
manager, rather does not like one person being able to spend up to $100,000 a year with
no Council approval. He suggested adjusting the spending to $3,000. This amount was
based on previous spending trends. Bowers said anything under $3,000 only needs ver-
bal quotes. Under $10,000 needs written quotes. Over that needs to go to bids. Several
councilmembers and audience members spoke against the change. The motion failed.
With the passing of Bill Holloway, the city is missing its Assistant City Manager as
well as the Public Works Director. City Manager Sara Bowers plans to look for some-
one, both inside and outside the city to fill the position as soon as possible. Bowers also
asked to give Finance Director Thomas Carman the authority to purchase in her ab-
sence. The Council agreed, but added Carman also checking with the mayor.
Council member Ron Kelley suggested honoring the memory of Bill Holloway by nam-
ing the new water well and tower south of I-10 as the William Holloway Water Tower
and Well Site. Council agreed.
Most Americans do not deal
with end-of-life issues and wishes,
a new study indi-
cates.
Researchers ana-
lyzed data from
nearly 8,000 people
who took part in
nationwide surveys
conducted in 2009
and 2010, and found
that only about 26 percent had com-
pleted an advance directive, also called a
living will.
There were significant associations be-
tween completing an advance directive
and age, income, education and health
status, according to the study in the
January issue of the American Journal of
Preventive Medicine.
Advance directives were more common
among women, whites, married people
and those who had a college degree or
postgraduate training. People with ad-
vanced directives also were more likely
to have a chronic disease or a regular
source of care.
"For black and Hispanic respondents,
advance directives were less frequent
across all educational groups. These data
indicate racial and educational dispari-
ties in advance directive completion and
highlight the need for education about
their role in facilitating [end-of-life] de-
cisions," Dr. Jaya Rao, who conducted
the study
Lack of awareness was the most com-
mon reason for not having an advance
directive.
Some previous studies have shown that
health care costs are highest during the
final years of life, but the use of advance
directives reduces Medicare spending
and the likelihood of in-hospital death.
"Given the current discussions about
implementing various models of health
care delivery, including the patient-
centered medical home, [end-of-life]
issues need to come to the forefront of
planning efforts," Rao said. "Hopefully,
these findings will contribute to the cur-
rent national conversations about [end-of
-life] care."
“To Jesus, the Christian life wasn't about being perfect but about being perfected.”
DFS Special Meeting - City Hall As reported by WZEP AM1460
The DeFuniak Springs City Hall property could sell and the Council could make a decision as early as this Monday night. The current
proposal would bring at least three new businesses to the corner of 331 south and Highway 90. The DeFuniak Springs City Council
met in special session to discuss two proposals for the City of DeFuniak Springs city hall property.
Council member Mac Work was there, but did not vote due to a conflict. Work said he feels they should have put the property out for
bid and now there is a possible third offer. Councilman Kermit Wright agreed they did not have a “For Sale” sign in front of city hall.
He said they should take time and let people work with each other. Wright, who previously was not fully in favor of a sale, said he is
ready to vacate.
Council member Ron Kelley said they should not piece meal, rather they should sell the whole property, city hall and annex. He made
a motion to go out for sealed bids. Kelley made the motion and Wright gave the second. Council member Henry Ennis agreed with
selling all, but said it bothers him they still do not have the bottom line for where they are going. Wright said, either place they go,
they have been told they can build a turnkey operation for $162 per square foot.
Mayor Bob Campbell said they have been dealing with Project P and now project F. He suggested they listen to the facts. Kelley said
his motion was designed to give time to allow for getting quotes to build a new city hall at 20th Street or the old Piggly Wiggly site as
well as helping the police department.
Wright said they have to have a new city hall if they sell the current one. He said he is also for a new police department. Wright said
they can build a nice building for what is being offered. He said he wants room to grow for 50 years. Kelley said he simply does not
want a taj mahal city hall and only what is left for the police department. Mayor Campbell said the deal was not set up for the police
department. He said their expectations are getting into the fantasy zone. Campbell said they have a quote that is far above the apprais-
als. He said there are doors that open and doors that close and the market can turn around in a minute and they could lose the opportu-
nity. Project P had an offer of $2.15 million for the annex corner.
Steve Youell, with Andrews & Arnsdorff Realty, asked if they are going out for bids. He said he grew up here and never would imag-
ine the corner would bring this much. He called a broker out of Atlanta to look at the situation. The Crim Group is proposing to build
three freestanding buildings. One will have two business and the others will have single businesses. Three will be national and the
third a regional. He said to imagine a high end Tom Thumb with all the bells and whistles. He said they would start developing the
corner piece while the city does what it needs to move city hall. He said there will be new businesses and a new city hall. Youell called
it a win-win situation.
Youell said his firm and the broker out of Atlanta would each get 3%. Campbell asked, if they bring in another realtor, then will the
percentages go up? He was told they could, or could not; that it is a negotiable item.
Attorney Clay Adkinson said, operating under the assumption that they would bring in a broker, they should get an Request For Quali-
fications and they could set the rate or could ask for proposals of rates. The Council talked about getting a broker for the city and list-
ing the property. Council member Mac Carpenter, who is a qualified broker, offered to list the property in MLS free of charge. The
attorney said it would not be a voting conflict, but could be a status conflict by doing business with one’s own agency. He said this is
normally a problem because there is a profit. Adkinson said he could get the Ethics Commission’s opinion since the question is a fine
line. Wright noted Carpenter’s offer would save them over 1000 square feet in costs. Carpenter then asked for requests for proposals,
knowing they will be paying a typical percentage. Adkinson said there is a need for an appraisal to please the auditor.
Wright said, for the first time he has agreed to sell but wants to get the most bang for the buck for residents. Wright said they need
time to make sure the citizens know they tried to get the best offer and did not take the first few to come along. Kelley agreed. He
changed his motion to add an Request For Proposals for the property instead of an RFQ for a broker. The mayor said they have gone
from one business to three and that makes a difference. He also mentioned the water well at Baldwin and a possible small piece of land
for a city sign.
Youell then made an offer of $3 million, said they will bring in three businesses and will beautify the busiest corner in the city. Wright
said he was ready. Kelley said he would have to stand by his motion and taking time. That is to direct staff to bring an RFP or some
sort of advertisement for sealed bids to the Monday night meeting. Youell asked the Council to wait until Monday night and see if the
offer could go from $3 million to $3.2 million. Council member Carpenter said the possible sale of the city hall property has been in
the news and brokers know about it. He noted there could be a third offer coming in, the one from the developer building the new Taco
Bell. Carpenter said he would be in favor of
drafting the proposal Monday and also see if an
offer comes in.
The motion to have staff prepare a Request For
Proposals and bring it back Monday night
passed. The Project P offer was $2.150 million
for annex property. It has already been turned
down.
‘Happenings’ in DeFuniak Springs
Thursday, December 12, 2013 The EMERALD STAR NEWS Inc. Page 7
I’m just a local man looking for ways to help you. Call 850-585-0262
People who know us….know : use The Emerald Star
News to promote upcoming events and business specials.
Send all inquiries to [email protected]
Or call 850-585-0262 for more information:)
Florida DEP Proposes Nine Local
Projects in Walton County as Part
of Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill
NRDA Phase III
Announced this morning by the
Florida Department of Environ-
mental Protection (FDEP) at a press
event in Panama City, nine projects
have been proposed to be funded in
Walton County as part of the Deep-
water Horizon Natural Resource
Damage Assessment (NRDA) Phase
III program.
The proposed projects include a
Deer Lake State Park Development
project, improvements to the Board-
walks and Dune Crossovers at Ed
Walline, Gulfview Heights, Grayton
Dunes, Dothan Beach, Palms of
Dune Allen West and Bayside
Ranchettes and boat ramp improve-
ments at Choctaw Beach and Lafay-
ette Creek.
The proposed dollar amount associ-
ated with these nine projects totals
approximately $1,700,000.
Walton County District 4 Commis-
sioner and Gulf Coast Consortium
Executive Board member was
pleased to receive the news. “I am
excited to see the proposal of sev-
eral projects specifically for Walton
County as well as other regional
projects benefitting our county,
which will allow visitors to use our
beautiful natural resources.”
In addition to the proposed local
projects, Walton County would also
benefit from a proposed regional
Artificial Reef Creation and Resto-
ration project that would span
Walton, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, Bay
and Escambia Counties. The cost
associated with that project is
$11,463,587.
Page 8 The EMERALD STAR NEWS, Inc. Thursday, December 12, 2013
Ph: 850-835-4153 www.freeportwaterfront.com
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Thursday, December 12, 2013 The EMERALD STAR NEWS Inc . Page 9
The 14 day Overview
Aquarius
1/20 – 2/18
Pisces
2/19 – 3/20
Aries
3/21 – 4/19
Taurus
4/20 – 5/20
Gemini
5/21 – 6/21
Cancer
6/22 – 7/22
Leo
7/23 – 8/22
Virgo
8/23 – 9/22
Libra
9/23 – 10/22
Scorpio
10/23 –11/21
Sagittarius
11/22 – 12/2
Capricorn
12/22 – 1/19
Help…..Spread the word about this
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Advertising specials going on NOW!!
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Letter to the :
Do you have a feral
pig problem?
Call me I may be able to help.
Rockey 717-201-7062
I am currently in Freeport
ready to meet with anyone.
Let’s schedule something
now, TODAY!!
Well, you're out of money. That's your first thought as you begin thinking about the rest of the week. That's
okay. Everyone else is out of money, too. (Well, not everyone. If you need to borrow some, don't feel bad
about asking.) A few days are brilliant illustrations of all that life has to offer that isn't related to money
whatsoever. You feel freer than you have in a while. Paradoxically, you feel more connected to others.
If you're not being pampered by those in your life, take the time to do so yourself. Really get into it -- or get
your engines going on a new creative project. On Tuesday, you have energy to burn. Wednesday and Thurs-
day are all over the place and confusion is imbuing your outlook with crazy shades of grey. Friday and Sat-
urday, sending cards to friends and family gives order to your thoughts.
This is a weird week for you, and Monday and Tuesday are atypical. Nevertheless, they have some typical
Monday and Tuesday traits: slow, quiet, unclear. Nothing really happens until Wednesday, which is a whirl-
ing fireball of activity and light. Expect lots of people, lots of noise, small adventures, sudden discoveries
and the like. You are more staid -- you're focused on money and how much of it you have or don't have.
Take the opportunity, on Monday and Tuesday, to consider your goals. If at all possible, the consideration of
your goals is a conversation you should have with someone else who is also re-assessing their priorities.
Wednesday and Thursday, you're plagued by indecision and a weird desire to shop (which is the last thing
you should do), but Friday and Saturday find you feeling better than you have in a while.
You spend the first part of the week feeling thrown off -- or maybe just in an abstract state of mind. What-
ever the source, it's a great time for thinking about your future and making personal decisions you might not
share right away with others; some alone time is probably in the stars. Nevertheless, your friends would love
to know what you're thinking, and talking about it might feel very good. You get a flurry of correspondence
from loved ones.
It kind of feels like your brain has turned into something resembling scrambled egg. Chances are high that
you'll say something very pedestrian and someone will wildly misunderstand it. Wednesday and Thursday
are challenging in the communication department as well. What's up? It's weird! Stick to the facts, speak
carefully and avoid the easily misunderstood issue of emotions at all costs.
Spirits -- and tensions -- are high, and someone might say something in another room that sounds to you like
something else. That could cause you to respond badly. You might even fly off the handle. It's in the stars.
Forewarned is forearmed. Tuesday is the same way. You aren't yourself when, true to form, you're able to
see everyone for their personal strengths, and you can have a good time anywhere.
The best thing you can give people on Monday and Tuesday isn't gifts or money or anything material, but
total respect. Provide them with all the space they need and all the sympathy you'd want. The urge to be
critical comes from a good place, but it inevitably comes out sounding sour and dark.
As much as the world at large wants you to focus on material wealth, the start of the week is a great time to
focus on anything not nearly as concrete. The color of the sky, the sound of birds calling, a random -- and
rare -- splash of sun. It's a beautiful thing! Then, turn your attention from the natural world to humanity and
focus on people in the middle of the week. Everything else will take care of itself.
It's no wonder that your mind is a loose collection of images and feelings at the start of the week -- the
dreamy quality of the season does that. You have a hard time separating real life and fantasy at this time,
which isn't a bad thing. It could become bad, however, in the middle of the week, when you have some seri-
ous things to get done. Going for a jog might wake you up a bit to physical reality.
You've been hitting your wallet pretty hard lately and it may mean you haven't a penny in your pocket at the
start of the week. It happens to the best of us, but that doesn't make it any less annoying. Plus, you're in a
serious looking-back-on-your-life mode, which also happens to everyone. By the middle of the week, you
are fully focused on the future: You're having fun thinking about all the stuff you want to get done in the
coming weeks.
Thinking clearly is key as the week gets under way. Figure out what makes you feel centered, grounded and
high-functioning, then do it and take on the world. From sometime Tuesday through most of Thursday, you
may be having that 'grass is greener' sensation. Take your desire for something different into serious consid-
eration, but make any major changes slowly, in increments. Then take special care with work and projects.
For your life is good, keep good friends in the fore front.
Editor,
As a recent resident to the Freeport area, I
had to say how impressed I am with you and
this little newspaper. I am surprised to see the
lack of support from all of your local busi-
nesses.
With Ads showing the lowest prices why
wouldn’t the city rally around your endless
efforts for being one of the few cities in the
US that actually has it’s own newspaper?
The local owners need to ask themselves
why? Why not spend as little as $20 to adver-
tise and support the newspaper?
I will be looking for you an advertising
sales person. I know the efforts you have
showed us. From what I hear it’s been about
5 years now?
How many other businesses have success-
fully stayed open in Freeport anyhow? It is
fact that your has, I applaud you!!
I’d like to see the Mayor post you in his
highlighted web page. He seems like some-
one who would appreciate this newspaper.
You would think the strip mall across from
City Hall would be a constant in your news-
paper. The city needs your help, I pray for
you they gather around to keep this newspa-
per alive.
Good Luck to you in the upcoming year.
Dr. William Tennor
Dear editor,
I met you the other evening at the local gas
station. We talked for several minutes. I’m
not sure if you remember but I was im-
pressed with you and how you handle your-
self.
I didn’t want to seem to pry into your life
but it let me know what a great guy you are.
I’ll never forget how you said that you hope
to see this newspaper grow and be something
that all Freeport folks know and talk about.
I truly hope your wish may come true for
you someday soon. God Bless.
Virginia Howell
Page 10 The EMERALD STAR NEWS, Inc. Thursday, December 12, 2013
NOTICE of PUBLIC WORKSHOP
You are hereby notified of a Public Workshop to be held on Thurs-day, December 19, 2013 at 5:00 PM or soon thereafter, to discuss the proposed South Walton Sports Complex.
The meeting will be held at the Coastal Branch Library located at 437 Greenway Trail, Santa Rosa Beach, FL.
Please be advised two or more Commissioners may attend this meeting.
Lane Rees Sentenced
State Attorney Bill Eddins con-
firms Judge Howard LaPorte sen-
tenced former Walton County
Commissioner Lane Rees to 10
years State Prison to be followed
by 10 years Sexual Offender Pro-
bation. The defendant was also
designed as a Sexual Offender
and will be required to register as
a Sexual Offender and comply
with all statutory requirements
and restrictions.
The defendant pled to one count
of Promotion of Child Pornogra-
phy and 28 counts of Possession
of Child Pornography. Rees was
charged after an investigation
revealed that he had sent elec-
tronic messages containing child
pornography. Numerous images
were found on the computer that
he admitted he had exclusive use
of.
Both the investigation and arrest
were conducted by the Walton
County Sheriff’s Office with the
assistance of the Children’s Ad-
vocacy Center. Assistant State
Attorney Christine Bosau prose-
cuted the case.
Uruguay set to become first country to legalize
marijuana trade Uruguay's Senate is expected to pass a law on Tues-
day making the small South American nation the
world's first to allow its citizens to grow, buy and
smoke marijuana.
The pioneering government-sponsored bill estab-
lishes state regulation of the cultivation, distribution
and consumption of marijuana and is aimed at
wresting the business from criminals.
Cannabis consumers would be allowed to buy a
maximum of 40 grams (1.4 ounces) each month
from state-regulated pharmacies as long as they are
over the age of 18 and registered on a government database that will monitor their monthly
purchases.
Uruguayans would also be allowed to grow up to six plants of marijuana in their homes a year,
or as much as 480 grams (about 17 ounces). They could also set up smoking clubs of 15 to 45
members that could grow up to 99 plants per year.
The bill, which opinion polls show is unpopular, passed the lower chamber of Congress in July
and is expected to easily pass the Senate on the strength of the ruling coalition's majority.
Uruguay's attempt to undo drug trafficking is being followed closely in Latin America where
the legalization of some narcotics is being increasingly seen by regional leaders as a possible
way to end the violence spawned by the cocaine trade.
"Our country can't wait for international consensus on this issue," Senator Roberto Conde of
the governing Broad Front left-wing coalition said as Senate debate opened. He said organized
crime had turned Uruguay into a transit country for drugs, such as marijuana from Paraguay
and cocaine from Bolivia.
Rich countries debating legalization of pot are also watching the bill, which philanthropist
George Soros has supported as an "experiment" that could provide an alternative to the failed
U.S.-led policies of the long "war on drugs."
The bill gives authorities 120 days to set up a drug control board that will regulate cultivation
standards, fix the price and monitor consumption.
The use of marijuana is legal in Uruguay, a country of 3.3 million that is one of the most lib-
eral in Latin America, but cultivation and sale of the drug are not.
Other countries have decriminalized marijuana possession and the Netherlands allows its sale
in coffee shops, but Uruguay will be the first nation to legalize the whole chain from growing
the plant to buying and selling its leaves.
Several countries such as Canada, the Netherlands and Israel have legal programs for growing
medical cannabis but do not allow cultivation of marijuana for recreational use.
Last year, the U.S. states of Colorado and Washington passed ballot initiatives that legalize
and regulate the recreational use of marijuana.
Uruguay's leftist president, Jose Mujica, defends his initiative as a bid to regulate and tax a
market that already exists but is run by criminals.
"We've given this market as a gift to the drug traffickers and that is more destructive socially
than the drug itself, because it rots the whole of society," the 78-year-old former guerrilla
fighter told Argentine news agency Telam.
NOT ALL CONVINCED
Uruguay is one of the safest Latin American countries with little of the drug violence or other
violence seen in countries such as Colombia and Mexico. Yet one-third of Uruguay's prison
inmates are serving time on charges related to narcotics trafficking.
Even though it is set to clear the Senate, the legislation faces fierce opposition from conserva-
tives and Mujica has yet to convince a majority of Uruguayans that it is a good idea.
According to a recent opinion poll by Equipos Consultores, 58 percent of Uruguayans oppose
legalizing pot, although that is down from 68 percent in a previous survey in June.
Critics say legalization will not only increase consumption but open the door to the use of
harder drugs than marijuana, which according to government statistics is used by 8 percent of
Uruguayans on a regular basis.
"Competing with drug traffickers by offering marijuana at a lower price will just increase the
market for a drug that has negative effects on public health," said Senator Alfredo Solari of the
conservative Colorado Party.
If it works, the legislation is expected to fuel momentum for wider legalization of marijuana
elsewhere, including the United States and in Europe. Decriminalization of all drug possession
by Portugal in 2001 is held up as a success for reducing drug violence while not increasing
drug use.
"This development in Uruguay is of historic significance,"
“We’re all seeking that special per-
son who is right for us. But if
you’ve been through enough rela-
tionships, you begin to suspect
there’s no right person, just differ-
ent flavors of wrong. Why is this?
Because you yourself are wrong in
some way, and you seek out part-
ners who are wrong in some com-
plementary way. But it takes a lot of
living to grow fully into your own
wrongness. And it isn’t until you
finally run up against your deepest
demons, your unsolvable prob-
lems—the ones that make you truly
who you are—that we’re ready to
find a lifelong mate. Only then do
you finally know what you’re look-
ing for. You’re looking for the
wrong person. But not just any
wrong person: the right wrong per-
son—someone you lovingly gaze
upon and think, “This is the prob-
lem I want to have.”
I will find that special person who
is wrong for me in just the right
way.
Let our scars fall in love.”
― Galway Kinnell
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Free estimates. Excellent work for a
great price. For more information
Call: 850.585.0262
Pressure washing –driveway,
fences, mobile homes...you name it
850-419-1556
The EMERALD STAR NEWS Inc. Page 11 Thursday, December 12, 2013
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Help Wanted: Would you like to meet new people?
Would you like to help this newspaper?
Easy work-local work-you make your
own hours…… no exp. Necessary
call 585-0262
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ESNews WEB SITE!!
Theemeraldstarnews.blogspot.com
Our new E-mail contact:
[email protected] Community wide Youth gathering at:
Freeport Presbytery Church located on
Hwy. 20 near Frank’s Cash and Carry.
Every first Sunday of the month at 5:00
for games, fun and PIZZA!
For Sale
Local man helping local businesses…..
contact 850-585-0262
Advertising special of 2 months
for only $50 various sizes
Get your advertisement printed
10,000 times , you change your
Ad as you wish during special.
Wanted: Cars, Trucks,
Vans or motorcycles running or not, will haul off.
Top $ paid. Free removal of junk car.
Leave message with the Emerald Star
you will receive call back in less than
24hrs.
Call 850-585-0262
This newspaper would love to see more input from the teachers and
parents promoting accomplishments of our children. Please E-mail to
Thinking of a remodeling job? Kitchens, baths, etc. Let us
give you an estimate that could
save you up to a thousand dollars
or more.
Over 30yrs. Exp in building and
remodeling and repairs work.
Call 585-0262 for details
Explore nature in and around Walton
County Florida with Walton Outdoors.
For more information, go to: http://
www.waltonoutdoors.com
Waste Management 2014 Holiday
Pickup Schedule:
Christmas:
North Walton on Friday 12/27/13.
South Walton on Saturday 12/28/13.
NOTICE of MEETING
DATE CHANGE
Please be advised that the Walton
County Board of Commissioners will
hold their Regular Meeting on Thurs-
day, December 19, 2013 rather than
Tuesday, December 24, 2013 due to
Christmas Holidays and County Offices
being closed.
This meeting will begin at 9:00 AM and
will be held in the Courthouse located at
571 US Highway 90, DeFuniak Springs,
FL. Please be governed accordingly.
PUBLIC NOTICE
Please be advised that the Walton County Local Restore Act Committee will hold a special Workshop on Wednesday, Decem-ber 11, 2013 at 5:00 PM at the Bayou Arts Center located at 105 Hogtown Bayou, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459.
The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the RESTORE Act.
A Helping Hand In these trying economic times it
is nice to know that there is a
local place where low income
families can get some help.
Caring and Sharing of South
Walton County located at 112
Lynn Drive Santa Rosa Beach,
FL 32459, Phone 850-267-2866
is available to lend a helping
hand. They run the only food
pantry in South Walton County.
Furniture and clothes are avail-
able for those in need. They also
offer financial assistance for
electric and water bills. The
thrift store is filled with a nice
variety of items which help to
raise funds. Donations are al-
ways welcome. It is run by Di-
rector Pennie Lucas and a staff
of 6. They also rely heavily on
volunteers. If you need a help-
ing hand they are available to
help. If you have some extra
time on your hands and would
like to give back they would love
to have your help.
“When we're incomplete, we're
always searching for somebody to
complete us. When, after a few
years or a few months of a rela-
tionship, we find that we're still
unfulfilled, we blame our partners
and take up with somebody more
promising. This can go on and on-
-series polygamy--until we admit
that while a partner can add sweet
dimensions to our lives, we, each
of us, are responsible for our own
fulfillment.
Page 12 The EMERALD STAR NEWS Inc. Thursday, December 12, 2013
Ph: 850-835-4153 www.freeportwaterfront.com
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND PHOTOS - TEXT PROPERTY ID# TO 85377
OWN FOR LESS THAN RENT!
BANK OWNED! 2.5 ACRES
Brick building with offices and covered deck on Highway 20. Metal building with 5 roll-up doors and attached awnings. Property completely fenced and mostly cleared. Near entrance to popular Hammock Bay. Call to see!
$269,900
HIGHWAY 20 IN FREEPORT
Close to Highway 331 South intersection. Metal building with 1,680 square feet. Office area plus shop area. C W & S.
Currently leased. Call for appointment to see!
$170,000
HEART OF FREEPORT! Older 3BR/1BA FL cottage with hard wood floors. C W & S. Many possibilities with this property- residential/investment/commercial. Potential! ID#T908217 $54,900
BANK OWNED 3BR/2BA, 1,631 sf. country-style home on .5 acre lot located near Eglin AFB Reservation. Additional 500 + sf. unfinished space. ID #T862014 $149,000
RIVER HIDE-A-WAY Secluded cabin on the Choctawhatchee! 1BR/1BA, 504 sq. ft. with a large screened freshly painted porch. One of a kind location! ID# T1630288 Offered At $98,800
ACREAGE NEAR GOLF COURSE Approximately 5.2 ac on paved road. Mostly wooded. City Water & Septic tank on site. Some improvements in cleared area. ID# T1032826 $41,900
2 Bedrooms/2.5 Baths
Over 1,100 sq. ft.
Swimming Pool & Play Area
FHA & VA Financing Available
The Palms of Freeport
Starting at….
$84,500
Happy Holidays