• uctimes@windstream.net • www.StarkeJournal.com •Deadline Monday 5 p.m. before publication • Phone 386-496-2261 • Fax 386-496-2858

Union County TimesUnion County Times USPS 648-200 — Lake Butler, Florida Thursday, Jan. 24, 2013 100th Year — 39th Issue — 75 CENTS

WorthNoting

UCSO safety drills at UC schools successfulLast week, the Union County

Sheriff’s Office (UCSO) conducted numerous safety and lockdown drills throughout the Union County School’s. In the months leading to Thursdays lock down drill, UCSO, Union County Emergency Management (UCEM) and Union County School officials met to determine safety issues and concerns and review current procedures for responding to all emergencies.

On Jan. 17, UCSO and UCEM responded to the Lake Butler Elementary School for a mock training drill involving a stranger on campus. The drill was to test current “lock down” procedures and practices for when an emergency may occur. Letters went out to all elementary school parents and a notice was placed in the Union County Times prior to this drill.

The elementary school went on lock down at 8:47 a.m. and was cleared by 9 a.m. During this 13-minute drill, every classroom was locked and children practiced what to do in the case of an emergency. Law enforcement with UCSO searched the campus and made sure every door was locked as according to procedures. Not one student witnessed law enforcement officers on campus during the drill in an effort to minimize the seriousness of this training.

On Jan. 18, UCSO performed a surprise lock down drill and K-9 narcotic search of Union

County High School and Lake Butler Middle School. Both schools went on lockdown at 9 a.m. Assisting UCSO deputies were five K-9 officers and four K-9 narcotic drug dogs from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. A total of 13 law enforcement officers (consisting of four teams) search both schools and tested current lock down procedures in both the Middle and High School.

Sheriff Jerry Whitehead said,

“All three schools excelled on the lock down drills and demonstrated that children safety is as much a concern to them as it is to the Sheriff’s Office.”

The narcotic operation conducted throughout last week ended with a search of both schools with JSO K-9 officers and dogs. Last week’s operation resulted in 2 arrests and 2 juvenile misdemeanor citations issued.

An arrest made on Jan. 16, of a 14 year old for marijuana

possession (2nd degree felony charge) and possession of narcotic equipment/drug paraphernalia (1st degree misdemeanor charge).

One juvenile misdemeanor citation issued on a 17 year old for marijuana possession (1st degree misdemeanor).

The law enforcement search with the drug dogs alerted officers to three vehicles around the school that resulted in one arrest of an 18 year old for marijuana possession (1st

degree misdemeanor) and one juvenile misdemeanor citation for possession of narcotic equipment/drug paraphernalia (1st degree misdemeanor). Those issued a juvenile misdemeanor citation will be required to complete a program that includes community service and random drug testing. Those who fail to complete the program can be

(L-r) Assistant EM director Tim Allen, reserve Deputy Sheriff Scott Word, EM director John Walker, school resource officer Deputy Jason Lepanto, UCSO deputy John Whitehead, LBES Assistant Principal Christy Perez,

Sheriff Jerry Whitehead, UCSO Deputy James Jankowski, Major Garry Seay, LBES Principal Stacy Rimes, UCSO deputy Todd Hanlon, Investigator Brian Davis and Lt. Lyn Williams.

(l-r) Lt. Billy McGill, Bill Whitehead, Post Commander Colan L. Coody (presented certificates), Quinton Bloodsworth, Dr. Marvin Johnson and Leon Shadd. (Not pictured) Jack Whitehead, Doyle Godwin and Eddy Oden.

BY TIFFANY CLARKTimes Editor

A certificate of appreciation was presented to Lt. Billy McGill, Bill Whitehead, Quinton

Bloodsworth, Dr. Marvin Johnson and Leon Shadd last Thursday at the American Legion Post 153 meeting by Post Commander Colan L. Coody for their service 60 years ago in the

Korean War. The certificate read, “In recognition of honorable service during the Korean War in defense of democracy and freedom. Though your selfless sacrifice, the tide of communism

on the Korean Peninsula was halted and liberty triumphed over tyranny. The Department of Defense and the people of America and Korea are forever grateful.”

Secretary of Defense Leon E. Panetta signed the certificate.

Not present to receive their certificates were: Jack Whitehead, Doyle Godwin and Eddy Oden.

See UCSO page 2A

Local Korean War Veterans honored

BY TIFFANY CLARKTimes Editor

The Florida Department of Education (FLDOE) recently released the High School grades with Union County High School earning an “A”. The district grades were also released with Union earning an “A” for the second consecutive year.

The school grades were released for Lake Butler Elementary School and Lake Butler Middle School in the later part of 2012, with both earning an “A.” The High School grades were still pending at that time but the percentages earned look promising.

Superintendent Carlton Faulk said that this was the first time the High School had received an “A”.

“In the past, the high school has earned enough to be an “A” school but fell short in a few

categories which caused the letter grade to drop. I want to congratulate the students, faculty, staff and administration on their outstanding performance,” said Faulk.

53 percent of the UCHS students met high standards in reading, 75 percent met high standards in math and 90 percent met high standards in writing. Of the lowest quartile of students, 65 percent made reading gains and 85 percent made math gains.

For the district, 62 percent met high standards in reading, 66 percent met high standards in math, 85 percent met high standards in writing and 49 percent met high standards in science. (UCHS science percentages not available) Of the lowest quartile of students, 71 percent made reading gains and 65 percent made math gains.

According to the FLDOE, Florida has graded schools on an

A-F scale since 1999, offering parents, teachers, students and taxpayers a simple and effective way to see how well their schools are doing.

To calculate this grade, points are awarded for students who score satisfactory or higher and/or make annual learning gains. High school grades involve additional components on graduation, acceleration, and college readiness.

In other news, the federal graduation rate for Union County was also released with 70.4 percent of students earning a standard diploma, 4.7 percent of students earning a special diploma, 20.7 percent of other non-graduates and 4.1 percent of students dropping out.These percentages are not to be confused with the state rates released in January of 2012 that ranked Union County as having one of the highest graduation

rates in the state.The state rankings were based

on tracking a student’s progress for all four years of high school and keeping them in school.

Florida is calculating and reporting only the federal uniform graduation rate beginning in 2011-12. This version replaces the National Governors Association (NGA) rate, which is no longer calculated, for high school grades accountability. Federal regulations require each state to calculate a four-year adjusted cohort graduation rate, which includes standard diplomas but excludes GEDs, both regular and adult, and special diplomas. The US Department of Education (USED) adopted this calculation method in an effort to develop uniform, accurate, and comparable graduation rates across all states. The USED required states to begin calculating the new graduation

rate in 2010-11. In addition, the FLDOE also

released the school personnel evaluations on all instructional staff.

The Union County High School had a total of 58 instructors evaluated with the following results:

Highly effective 4 or 7.1 percent, effective 50 or 89.3 percent, needs improvement 2 or 3.6 percent, unsatisfactory 0, and not evaluated 2.

The Lake Butler Middle School had a total of 54 instructors evaluated with the following results:

Highly effective 0, effective 49 or 90.7 percent, needs improvement 5 or 9.3 percent, unsatisfactory 0, and not evaluated 0.

The Lake Butler Elementary School had a total of 79

Union County High School, District earn ‘A’

See SCHOOL page 2A

Morning Star Church fundraisers

Morning Star Baptist Church will have a yard sale and a bake sale on Saturday, Feb. 2, from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. Morningstar is located on half mile from the intersection of S.R. 121 and C.R. 18 in Worthington Springs.

Fundraisers for WS Seniors

The Worthington Springs Senior Center will host a bake sale on Saturday, Jan. 26, from a.m. until sold out at Spires IGA.

The center will also host a Bingo night at the Worthington Springs Community Center on Friday, Feb. 8. Refreshments will be sold to include fried fish, hot dogs, coleslaw and more. All are invited to attend.

Valentines Hawaiian set

The Lake Butler Rotary Club will host a Valentines Hawaiian Luau on Saturday, Feb. 9, from 7 to 10:30 p.m. at the Lake Butler Community Center. Tickets are $25 each or two tickets for $45. A table for ten is $200. There will be dinner, music, silent and live auctions and more. For tickets or for more information contact Joyce at 352-745-6240, Zach at 352-231-1939, Ginny at 386-496-2526 or ask any Rotarian.

Daddy-Daughter date night

Daddy-daughter date night is set for Feb 15. Hosted by First Baptist Church and Butler Seafood House and Grill. Reservations required. Call the church office at 386-496-3704 or visit www.fbclakebutler.com

Last chance to enter Miss Bradford Fest pageant

Orientation is this Friday. Don’t miss the third annual Miss Bradford Fest, an event of Santa Fe College, Saturday, Feb. 16, at the Bradford High School auditorium at 7 p.m. A portion of the proceeds benefits Santa Fe College scholarships in Bradford County.

Contestants will compete in multiple categories including Western wear and talent, depending on age category. The Little Miss pageant is for ages 4-7, Junior Miss is for ages 8-12, Teen Miss is for ages 13-17 and Miss is for ages 18-22. The winner of the Miss category could receive a two-year Santa Fe College scholarship.

The deadline has been extended to Jan. 25. A special orientation will be held that night at 7 p.m. at the Starke Golf and Country Club. Entry forms are available by emailing thron99@embarqmail.com. For more information, contact Lisa Tatum at 904-966-1514 or Brenda Thornton at 904-364-8266.

Sanderson Christian give-a-way

Sanderson Christian Revival Center will have a free give-away Today, Jan. 24, at Sprinkle Field in Lake Butler beginning at 9 a.m.

Colon cancer is the 2nd leading cause of cancerdeaths in Florida.

7 out of 10 cancer deaths can be prevented throughscreening and lifestyle changes.

Colon cancer starts without symptoms so chooseprevention and get screened.If you’re 50 or older, ask your doctor which coloncancer screening test is right for you.

Colon Cancer Screening

Saves Lives

coloncancerFL.orgFlorida Department of Health • Funded by CDC Cooperative Agreement #5U58DP002070-04

colo ad_gen_11-12_family health 1/3/13 11:15 AM Page 1

Network in Washington, D.C.Enter the Media Plan Case Competition to

Win an All-Expense-Paid Trip to Our Nation's Capital

College Students Invited to Apply at www.MediaScholars.org�e Washington Media Scholars Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization.

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

UPDATED_WMSF_5x5.pdf 3 1/9/13 10:32 AM

Herbal Nail Fungus Soak

$16.95 postpaid Money Back Guarantee

Nail Fungus? Cracking Heel?

LongCreekHerbs.com

417-779-5450

DUDLEYS’ AUCTION 4000 S. Florida Ave., Inverness, FL (1/2 mile S. of the Fairgrounds)

BE SURE TO WATCH THE WEBSITE. Absentee and phone bids always accepted. 352-637-9588. Photos on web.

 

Personal Property sold Dudley’s Auction Ab1667. Maine-ly Real Estate BK#381384. 12% bp, 2% ca/chk discount. Announcements from the block take precedent.

AUCTIONS Every Thursday: Estate Adventure auction. 800+ lots! Furniture, estate vehicles, collectibles...

JAN. 25: Coin auction. Uncirculated, graded gold, key date morgans, proofs, MORE...

JAN. 26: Antique store liquidation. Florida Porch Antiques (700 block Main St. Leesburg)

JAN. 28: Real estate restaurant auction. 19 restaurant properties, owner retiring (4135 S. Suncoast Blvd [US 19] Homosassa)

FEB 8-9: 3 Real Estate Auctions, including golf course lot in nationally known Black Diamond

FEB. 3: Antique & Collectibles 500+ Lots! Fresh estate items, hand-picked for our monthly antique auction

www.dudleysauction.com

Estate‐Online‐Specialty‐Real Estate  au2246 ab1667 

BY MARK J. CRAWFORDTelegraph Editor

A long delayed gas-to-energy project at the New River Re-gional Landfill was pushed even further into the future last week when board members decided to call for new proposals.

Alan Janechek and his compa-ny Janechek and Associates were hired in 2011 to develop a project to turn landfill gas into a profit-able commodity for the New River Solid Waste Association. After being granted additional time to develop a workable proj-ect, Janechek finally had a new proposal for the board last week, but the board wasn’t interested.

The original project involved producing gas from the landfill emissions and piping it through the natural gas transmission line to Janechek’s facility in Califor-nia where it would be used for projects there. The venture fell through when California out-lawed biogas transmissions from out of state around the same time the contract with New River was signed.

Janechek said they tried to change direction and negotiate contracts with Florida utilities that were buying biogas, but the market for renewable electricity had, for several reasons, become nonexistent.

“We were kind of at a dead end,” he said.

In the last few months, how-ever, Janechek said they had identified a buyer that would al-low them continue with a project similar to what was originally proposed.

Clean Energy Renewable Fu-els, a subsidiary of natural gas distributor Clean Energy, was formed to produce and sell com-pressed natural gas to power ve-

hicles.“They are building fueling sta-

tions in Florida and throughout the United States to sell CNG as vehicle fuel for fleets, and also they think the market for com-pressed natural gas for automo-biles is going to explode,” Jan-echek said.

The company has made an of-fer to purchase all of the fuel Jan-echek can produce at New River, and pay a premium for it.

The original agreement be-tween the association and Jan-echek included a firm timeline, but circumstances have forced Janechek to fall more than a year behind. He asked the association for an extension of time as they work toward the development of this new project. One of the first milestones would be to negotiate a final agreement with Clean En-ergy Fuels.

“We’re working on our time-line right now, we’ve tightened it up, but right now we believe 16 months,” Janechek said.

The promising proposal hit a snag, however, when Janechek mentioned the future financing that would be required to pro-ceed with construction.

Board members were con-cerned about the possibility that the association would have to act as a guarantor for Janechek’s financing of the project. He said this was typical of other projects he has developed, but Bradford County Commissioner Eddie Lewis said they were dealing with the public’s money and just couldn’t do that. The other com-missioners agreed.

Instead they decided to issue a new request for proposals for the development of gas-to-energy projects at the landfill.

criminally prosecuted. This search was to locate any

illegal narcotics or prescription pills located in either schools. This was a law enforcement effort in UCSO continued fight against illegal narcotics. The K-9 dogs have been extensively trained on locating illegal substances. All students were removed from their classrooms during the search of their belongings, lockers and common areas, as well as student parking and exterior searches of vehicles.

“This is just another tool and effort to keep our children safe and away from illegal drugs or other harmful activity. The K-9s that were used are highly skilled and trained and commonly used in school searches throughout North Florida. This was a routine search that coincided with our safety lockdown drills. We routinely and randomly search our schools throughout the year,” said Whitehead.

Superintendent Carlton Faulk said, “Once again we thank the Union County Sheriff’s Office and Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office for their support of the Union County Schools. We request searches throughout the year to make sure we do our best to keep our children and schools drug free. My goal is to provide a safe environment for our children and thank the Union County Sheriff’s Office for our great partnership to accomplish that goal.”

Lt. Lyn Williams, Union County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Lieutenant said, “We continue

to monitor our schools daily for any illegal activities and will again have the K-9 teams back for repeated searches to continue to be proactive for the safety of our children and community. The school officials did an outstanding job throughout all the lockdown drills.”

If you have any questions or concerns or know of any illegal activity to report, you are encouraged to contact the Union County Sheriff’s Office at 386-496-2501 or visit their website, www.unionsheriff.us.

instructors evaluated with the following results:

Highly effective 15 19.2 percent, effective 63 or 80.8 percent, needs improvement 0, unsatisfactory 0, and not evaluated 1.

For more information on district/school grades, graduation rates and teacher evaluations, visit www.fldoe.org

Continued from Page 1AUCSO

Continued from Page 1ASchool

FCAT = Florida Comprehensive

Assessment TestFAA = Florida Alternate

Assessment (for students with significant cognitive

disabilities)EOC = end-of-course

(assessment)

Landfill rebids gas-to-energy project

The Union County Road/Solid waste department invites members of the county to join the “Toxic Round-up,” helping the community to become a safer environment.

The Florida Department of environmental protection and the Union County commission are sponsoring this project to collect, recycle, treat and properly dispose of household hazardous wastes.

On Saturday, March 9, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., members of the community can properly dispose of their household hazardous waste by bringing it to the road/solid waste department located North just off of S.R. 121 on SW 84th Street.

Items being accepted include aerosol cans, antifreeze, batteries, computers, corrosives, diesel/transmissions fluid, emergency flares, fertilizers, florescent lamps, gasoline, household cleaners, household electronics, insecticides, medications, oil fillers, paint and paint products, paint thinners, pesticides, photographic solutions, poisons, pool chemicals, propane tanks, televisions, and used oil.

Dangerous items of concern and proper handling are as follows:

• If an item leaks, pack it in a larger container with an absorbent material such as cat litter or oil absorbent.

• Do not mix different or unknown materials together.

• Containers must be labeled. If you cannot identify the contents then label it unknown.

• Pack the containers in boxes with dividers.

Items not accepted include:

explosives such as ammunition, dynamite and blasting agents, re-actives such as crystallized ethers, picric acid and sodium and phosphorus metals, and radioactive or infectious waste.

Household hazardous waste is harmful if not disposed of correctly. For more information contact Jimmy Beasley at 386-496-2180.

Florida’s Education System jumps to top ten in Nation

A national report released

today ranks Florida sixth in the nation for the quality of its education system. Results of Education Week’s 2013 Quality Counts: Code of Conduct report give Florida a B-, surpassing the national grade of C+ and, resulting in an impressive move up from eleventh place last year. Florida earned an A in the Transitions and Alignment category, ranking fourth in the nation.

Governor Rick Scott said, “For Florida to be a global leader in job creation and economic growth, we have to provide our students with a quality education. Today’s news that Florida has

moved into the top ten in the nation for overall quality of education reinforces that we’re taking the steps needed to ensure our students succeed. We’ve made education a priority by investing $1 billion in K-12 education – and for the upcoming session, we’ll continue working with the legislature to enhance Florida’s education system so every Florida family can live the American Dream.”

Florida’s rise into the top ten is based on a solid showing in the Transitions and Alignment category, which tracks state policy efforts to coordinate K-12 education with early learning, postsecondary education, and the workforce. Florida earned an A in this category, moving up to fourth from a fourteenth-place B- last year.

Incoming Florida Commissioner of Education Dr. Tony Bennett said, “Florida has always been a national leader in education and I am proud to see the hard work of our students and educators recognized through the Quality Counts ranking. I am committed to working with our educators, parents, and other stakeholders toward continued success for Florida’s students.”

“Florida is committed to preparing students for success in education, a career, and in life, which is the purpose for moving to the Common Core State Standards,” said Interim Commissioner of Education Pam Stewart. “The 2013 Quality Counts report clearly shows our investment in education is paying off and we are moving in the right direction.”

As in previous years, the 2013 report grades states based on their policies and performance in six main education areas: Chance for Success; Transitions and Alignment; School Finance Analysis; K-12 Achievement; Standards, Assessments, and Accountability; and the Teaching Profession. State rankings are based on the average score for all six categories. This year’s rankings are calculated based on updated data for three of the six areas: Chance for Success; Transitions and Alignment; and School Finance Analysis.

The report comes on the heels of two recent studies showing Florida’s students ahead of their peers internationally. The Progress in International

Join Toxic Round-up

See TOP TEN, 3A

2A Union County Times • Thursday, Jan. 24, 2013

Many today profess to know and have a relationship with Jesus. In 1 John 2:3, we are told how we can tell whether someone truly knows Jesus, “Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments.” In the next verse, we learn that one who claims to know Jesus but does not keep His commandments is a liar (1 John 2:4). In like manner, most people claim to love Jesus. However, we can easily tell whether a person loves Jesus by whether they obey Him or not. Jesus was very plain in saying “If you love Me, keep My commandments” (John 14:15). No one can truly claim to know or love Jesus without keeping His commandments. Do you know Jesus? Do you love Jesus? To discover the answer to these questions one must ask the question of whether they are keeping His commandments.

Bible Study at 9:00 AM on Sun and 7:30 PM on WedWorship at 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM on Sun.

Train for hands on Aviation Career. FAA approved program.

Financial aid if qualified - Housing available. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance

866-314-3769

AIRLINES ARE HIRING

2012 Successful Year for Florida Students and Educators

Florida continues to pave the way in education with stellar performance by students, teachers, and institutions statewide.

A national leader in education reform, Florida is making progress when it comes to educating students. A number of test results reported in 2012 show

students in every demographic segment are making strides toward becoming better readers, more skilled at math, and better at science. In fact, students in Florida outperformed many students, both nationally and globally, in several subject areas in 2012.

The schools providing this learning are also excelling. Four of the top 10 magnet schools in the nation are located in the Sunshine State. More schools across the state are encouraging students to take advanced placement exams to give high school students an advantage when they graduate.

State colleges are also making their mark when it comes to garnering attention for boosting student success. Right now, multiple state colleges are vying for a coveted national recognition prize of $1 million for providing a quality education to children to prepare them to enter the workforce.

At the heart of these accomplishments are educators who are working diligently each day to ensure children can one day graduate and find a career. Florida teachers were recognized in 2012 by being awarded the highest grade in the nation for educator quality-a testament to their continued efforts to positively influence students’ lives.

“We know we have some of the best teachers in the nation working with students across our state,” said Commissioner of Education Pam Stewart. “They are the reason we continue to see higher test scores, higher graduation rates, and the reason Florida continues to be recognized nationally and globally. We appreciate their

dedication to shaping the lives of those who will one day run our nation.”

The highlights from 2012 were:

• Florida students outperformed many of their national and global counterparts on both the 2011 progress in international reading literacy study (PIRLS) and the trends in international mathematics and science study (TIMSS). The reports compared the performance of U.S. fourth-grade students in reading, mathematics, and science and eighth-grade students in mathematics and science to their peers internationally.

• In the first report of its kind, fourth and eighth graders excelled on the vocabulary portion of the national assessment of educational progress (NAEP). The report showed fourth graders in Florida outpaced the nation.

• Florida college system teacher educator programs are the first in the nation to voluntarily commit to a system-wide implementation of the common core state standards. The new standards will be embedded in the teacher preparation program curriculum throughout the college system so new teachers who enter the classroom will be ready for the more rigorous standards. The standards are benchmarked to international standards and establish clear, consistent goals for learning in order to prepare students for college and careers. In addition to training new teachers, the Florida college

system is uniquely positioned to offer essential common core training to current teachers.

• Florida ranked second in the nation for education test-score gains. The education next report examined international and U.S. state trends in student achievement growth using mathematics, reading, and science data from 1992 to 2011. Florida is second only to Maryland in test-score improvement between 1992 and 2011.

• Four Florida high schools were recognized as being in the top 10 magnet schools in the country. The 2012 U.S. news and world report best high schools report named the schools in recognition of a school’s ability to successfully educate its student body across a range of performance indicators and the degree to which they prepare students for college-level work.

• The national council on teacher quality awarded Florida the highest grade in the nation for educator quality. The state also received high marks for making progress in policies and practices that govern the teaching profession.

• Florida is one of only two states in the nation to have multiple finalists in the top ten schools vying for the 2013 aspen prize for community college excellence. Broward College and Santa Fe College were named finalists for the highly esteemed prize that recognizes outstanding outcomes in

learning, completion rates for degree and certificate programs, minority and low-income student success, and employment after college. The winner and finalists with distinction will be named in March.

• Through Just Read, Florida!, the state has implemented one of the most comprehensive literacy initiatives in the nation with efforts to ensure teachers deliver data-driven reading instruction, monitor student progress, and develop intervention strategies for students who are behind. Numerous states across the country are considering legislation that would mirror Florida’s policies for third-grade promotion and assistance to struggling readers. Florida’s groundbreaking legislation was introduced more than a decade ago and data show large reading achievement gains among students who received literacy support.

• Florida’s graduating seniors increased their scores in every SAT subject area in 2011-12. Florida also ranked third in the nation for the total number of advanced placement grades of 3 or higher.

Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS) ranked Florida fourth graders second in the world for reading and the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) showed the performance of Florida fourth and eighth graders substantially above their international counterparts.

The department’s mission is to increase the proficiency of all students within one seamless, efficient education system by providing them the chance to expand their knowledge and skills through world-class learning opportunities. Serving more than 3.5 million students, 4,200 public schools, 28 colleges, 188,000 teachers, 47,000 college professors and administrators, and 318,000 full-time staff throughout the state, the department enhances the economic self-sufficiency of Floridians through programs and services geared toward college, workforce education, job-specific skills, and career development. Florida ranks first in the nation for teacher quality, first in the nation in advanced placement participation, and first in the southern region for graduation rate and degrees awarded by the Florida College System. For more information, visit www.fldoe.org.

Continued from 2ATOP TEN

(At right) Witt “Batman” Thomas instructs LBMS teacher Nickie Snyder

and her students as they perform a demonstration

on hazardous waste spill clean-ups with a homemade robot and

birdseed.

4-H robot, toxic spill demonstration

BY WITT THOMAS4-H Shooting Sports Member

I visited Lake Butler Middle School teacher Nickie Snyder’s class to build robots. This project was to see if we could help the environment by cleaning hazardous spills and pollutants.

First thing we did was get all of our supplies together. We needed a toothbrush, a small motor, a hearing aid battery, double sided tape, some bendy straws, and some birdseed.

First thing we had to do to construct our robot was to cut the brush part off of the toothbrush. Then we got some double-sided tape and put it on top of the brush then we mounted the motor and battery on the top of the brush and put an extra piece of tape so it could be secure and tight so it

won’t fall off. After we got the robot built

we spread the birdseed out on a piece of paper pretending it was a toxic spill. After we got the seed spread out we put the robot down and saw that the robot was effective into cleaning the birdseed off the paper.

Using robots for hazardous waste cleans up keeps people safe and helps our environment. Additionally robots are used in the medical field and military.

Something we might try next

in our project is to build a bigger robot. Maybe it could sweep the floors around your house or in the schools.

City budget, intentions BY TIFFANY CLARK

Times EditorCity Manager David Mecusker

discussed the city budget and future intentions with Mayor Lonnie Norman and City Commissioners Jimmy Beasley, and Randy Jenkins at the recent city commission meeting.

Mecusker said the downtown redevelopment had $115,000 earmarked for a water park in

addition to around $60,000 of CDBG funds (Community Development Block Grant) left over from the fire station.

“I feel like we should be able to get a very good water park and might be able to address other issues we want to do,” said Mecusker.

In general revenue, Mecusker said that the first quarter was a tight quarter. “

“We did manage to spend up to the $2,230 surplus in general revenue. There were some things covered in the first quarter that had to be paid in full such as

insurance which was a payment for the whole year. In August, we will have to pay our bonds and loans but should have a bigger surplus to pay those things then. The fact that we have a surplus now is good, however I am watching the budget closely with the economic situation and the things we need to do with the budget,” said Mecusker.

In utilities, Mecusker said that there was a $666 surplus.

“Water was negative but sewer was positive so the net effect was that we stayed in budget.”

In other news, smoke free/

tobacco free zone signs will be placed in city parks around Lake Butler. Raiford and Worthington Springs are said to have done the same. These signs are meant to deter people from smoking in the areas of the parks. In addition, complaints were received on people walking their dogs in the city parks. Although signs are not currently in place for this, the commissioners agreed that dogs are suppose to be walked outside of the park. Signs stating this rule may be put up at a later date.

Thursday, Jan. 24, 2013 • Union County Times 3A

8191 SW 128th LaneLake Butler, FL 32054cypresshollow@windstream.net

Jerry CroyNRA & Certified Firearms Instructor

386-496-0092

HOURS: Mon-Fri 9am-6pm Sat 8am-1:30pm

CWL Classes each Saturday

Train ONLINE for Allied Health and Medical Management. Job placement assistance. Computer available.

Financial Aid if qualified. SCHEV authorized.

Medical careers begin here

call 888-203-3179www.centuraOnline.com

UCT LEGALS 1/24

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 8TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND

FOR UNION COUNTY, FLORIDACIVIL DIVISION

CASE NO. 63-20 ll-CA-000046FANNIE MAE (“FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGEASSOCIATION”)Plaintiff,vs.WINSTON RADHAY; SANDY RADHAY; UNKNOWN PERSON(S) IN POSSESSION OF THE SUBJECT PROPERTY;Defendants.

RE-NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALENOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to an Order Rescheduling Foreclosure Sale dated Jauary 9, 2013 and entered in Case No. 63-2011-CA-000046, of the Circuit Court of the 8TH Judicial Circuit and for UNlON County, Florida. FANNIE MAE (“FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION”) Plaintiff and WINSTON RADHAY; SANDY RADHAY; UNKNOWN PERSON(S) IN POSSESSION OF THE SUBJECT PROPERTY; are defendants. I will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash IN THE FRONT LOBBY OF THE COURTHOUSE, at 55 WEST MAIN STREET, LAKE BUTLER in UNION County, FLORIDA 32054, at a.m., on the 21 day of February, 2013, the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to wit:THAT PART OF BLOCK 13, J.W. TOWNSEND ADDITION, TO THE CITY OF LAKE BUTLER ACCORDING TO PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 1, PAGE 8, PUBLIC RECORDS OF UNION COUNTY, FLORIDA, MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:COMMENCING AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF SAID BLOCK 13, AND RUN SOUTH 85 DEGREE 36 MINUTES 50 SECONDS WEST, ALONG THE NORTH BOUNDARY OF SAID BLOCK 13, A DISTANCE OF 249.52 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING OF THE HEREINAFTER DESCRIBED PARCEL OF LAND; THENCE RUN SOUTH 00 DEGREES 47 MINUTES 40 SECONDS EAST, PARALLEL WITH THE EAST BOUNDARY OF SAID BLOCK 13, A DISTANCE OF 277.37 FEET. MORE OR LESS, TO THE INTERSECTION WITH THE CENTERLINE OF SILVER RUN; THENCE RUN NORTHWESTERLY ALONG SAID CENTERLINE OF SILVER RUN, A REFERENCE BEARING OF NORTH 35 DEGREES 58 MINUTES 40 SECONDS WEST A REFERENCE OF 108.23 FEET; THENCE CONTINUE RUNNING NORTHWESTERLY CONTINUING ALONG SAID CENTERLINE OF SILVER RUN, A REFERENCE BEARING OF NORTH 37 DEGREES 24 MINUTES 52 SECONDS WEST AND A REFERENCE DISTANCE OF 86.84 FEET, MORE OR LESS TO THE INTERSECTION WITH THE EAST RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF SOUTHEAST 5TH AVENUE; THENCE RUN NORTH 02 DEGREES 16 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, ALONG SAID EAST RIGHT-OF-WAY LINE OF SOUTHEAST 5TH AVENUE, A DISTANCE OF 112.59 FEET, MORE OR LESS TO THE INTERSECTION WITH SAID NORTH BOUNDARY OF BLOCK 13; THENCE RUN NORTH 85 DEGREES 35 MINUTES 50 SECONDS EAST, ALONG SAID NORTH BOUNDARY OF BLOCK 13, A DISTANCE OF 108.36 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING.A person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the lis pendens must file a claim with 60 days after the sale,Dated this 11 day of January, 2013.

Kellie Hendricks ConnellClerk of Courts

By: Crystal NormanDeputy Clerk

This notice is provided pursuant to Administrative Order No.2.065. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to provisions of certain assistance. Please contact the Court Administrator at 55 West Main Street, Rm.103, Lake Butler, Fl 32054, Phone No. (352)374-3648 within 2 working days of your receipt of this notice or pleading; if you are hearing impaired, call 1-800-955-8771 (TDD); if you are voice impaired, call 1-800-995-8770 (V) (Via Florida Relay Services).Kahane & Associates, P.A.8201 Peters Road, Ste.3000Plantation, FL 33324Telephone: (954) 382-3486Telefacsimile: (954) 382-5380Designated service email: notice@kahaneandassociates.com

1/17 2tchg 1/24-UCT

TAX DEED # 63 - 2012-TD-0003Notice of Application for Tax Deed

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that David J. Crews, the holder(s) of the following certificate has filed said certificate for a tax deed to be issued thereon. The certificate number and year of issuance, the description of the property, and the names in which it was assessed are as follows:CERTIFICATE #: 148 YEAR OF ISSUANCE: 2009DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY: 32-05-19-00-000-0011-0LEGAL DESCRIPTION:All that part of the North 1/2 of the North ½ of Section 32, Township 5 South, Range 19 East, Union County, Florida, lying West of the right of way for a forestry management grade road known as Road 17-A (a 60 foot wide right of way) LESS AND EXCEPT the West 1,758.27 feet of the said North 1/2 of the North 1/2 of Section 32.TOGETHER WITH an easement for ingress and egress over and across the 60 foot wide Road 17-A, described as follows:A 60 foot wide strip of land in Section 32, Township 5 South, Range 19 East, Union County, Florida, lying 30.00 feet on both sides of the centerline of an existing forestry management grade road knows as Road 17-A, said

centerline being more particularly described as follows:Commence at the Northeast corner of said Section 32, thence South 89 degrees 59 minutes 44 seconds West, along the North line of said Section 32, a distance of 1,013.78 feet to the Point of Beginning; thence Southerly along the said centerline of Road 17-A, through the following courses: South 22 degrees 47 minutes 57 seconds East, 330.50 feet to the Point of Curvature (PC) of a curve concave to the Southwest having a radius of 800.00 feet and a central angle of 13 degrees 44 minutes 43 seconds, thence Southeasterly along the arc of the curve, 191.92 feet to the Point of Tangency (PT); thence South 09 degrees 03 minutes 14 seconds East, a distance of 133.69 feet to the PC of a curve concave to the Northwest having a radius of 400.00 feet and a central angle of 49 degrees 59 minutes 19 seconds; thence Southwesterly along the arc of the curve, 348.99 feet to the PT; thence South 40 degrees 56 minutes 05 seconds West, a distance of 411.32 feet to the PC of a curve concave to the Southeast having a radius of 300.00 feet and a central angle of 38 degrees 01 minutes 15 seconds; thence Southwesterly along the arc of the curve 199.08 feet to the PT; thence South 02 degrees 54 minutes 50 seconds West, a distance of 380.57 feet to the PC of a curve concave to the Northeast having a radius of 290.00 feet and a central angle of 97 degrees 27 minutes 50 seconds; thence Southeasterly along the arc of the curve, 493.31 feet to the PT; thence North 85 degrees 27 minutes 00 seconds East, a distance of 150.57 feet; thence North 68 degrees 34 minutes 30 seconds East, a distance of 342.74 feet to the PC if a curve concave to the Southwest having a radius of 225.00 feet and a central angle of 77 degrees 50 minutes 37 seconds; thence Southeasterly along the arc of the curve, 305.69 feet to the FT; thence South 33 degrees 34 minutes 53 seconds East, a distance of 297.74 feet to the PC of a curve concave to the Southwest having a radius of 600.00 feet and a central angle of 25 degrees 08 minutes 58 seconds; thence Southeasterly along the arc of the curve, 263.36 feet to the PT; thence South 08 degrees 25 minutes 55 seconds East, a distance of 228.18 feet to the centerline of State Road 238 and the end of the said centerline.LESS AND EXCEPT that part of the ingress and egress easement lying within the right of way of State Road 238.NAME IN WHICH ASSESSED: Roderick D Vereen and Jacques Pierre Louis.Said property being in the County of Union, State of Florida. Unless such certificate shall be redeemed according to the law the property described in such certificate will be sold to the highest bidder in the Courthouse lobby at 11:00 A.M., the 21st day of February, 2013.Dated this 15th day of January, 2013.

Kellie Hendricks ConnellClerk of Circuit Court

Union County, FloridaPersons with disabilities requesting reasonable accommodations to participate in this proceeding should contact (386) 496-3711.

1/17 4tchg 2/7-UCT

LEGAL NOTICES

“Government ought to be all outside and no inside.”

President Woodrow Wilson

Classes at the Library

Basic computer classes for adults are offered at the Union County Public library on Tuesday mornings from 10 a.m. to noon through January.

Basic money management workshops for adults are offered at the library on Wednesday mornings, 10 to 11:30 a.m. through January.

Books for your eReader are available through the library’s webpage at www.newriver.lib.fl.us.

The bookmobile is available at various stops around the county on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Visit the webpage for a schedule, or call the library at 386-496-3432 for more information.

Project GRAD meeting set

Project GRAD class of 2013 will meet on Monday, Jan. 28, at 6:15 p.m. in the Union County High School library to vote on activities and upcoming fundraisers.

Early Learning Coalition meetings set

The Early Learning Coalition of Florida’s Gateway, Inc., executive/finance committee meeting will be held on Monday, Feb. 11, at 3 p.m.

The quality committee meeting will be held on Friday, Feb. 15, at 3 p.m.

The board meeting will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 13, at 9 a.m. The office is located at 1104 SW Main Blvd in Lake City.

The coalition administers the state and federal funding for all school readiness and voluntary pre-kindergarten (VPK) programs for Columbia, Hamilton, Lafayette, Suwannee, and Union. Community participation and input welcomed. If any person(s) interested in attending this meeting has a disability requiring special assistance contact Stacey Nettles at (386) 752-9770.

.

Historical Society presentation

A historical presentation will be given at the historical museum located on Main Street in Lake Butler on Mon. Jan. 28, at 7 p.m., concerning the Miller community, which is now known as the Harmony Freewill Baptist Church area in western Union County. Correspondence from the community still listed the school as Blair as late as 1911. The school has 6 pupils. By 1920, the school was referred to as the Miller School. Descendants of the Rev. H.S. Miller who bought the store at Blair in 1906 will give the presentation. Please plan to attend this very informative and historical presentation. Everyone is welcome.

Babe Ruth sign up set

Baseball sign ups for spring will be held at Spires IGA, from 9 a.m. to noon on every Saturday through Feb. 2. No exceptions on the deadline. T-ball cost will be $60, and $80 for all other divisions. There will be a rally day and picture day on Saturday, March 9. For more information contact Steve Lynch at slynch@bmequipment.com

Women overcoming issues annual conference set

The conference will be held at the Community Revival Center, Pastor Clyde Douglas & Sister Laverne Douglas. The church is located at 244 NE Patterson Street in Lake City. The theme is: Women Why You Tripping?

Just Believe God!Friday Feb. 1, at 7:30 p.m.,

the guest speaker will be Pastor Dr. Queen Horne- Kelly of Miracle Word of Faith Min. Inc. Gainesville.

On Saturday, Feb. 2, there will be teaching workshops with guest speakers. Pastor Sharon Jones- Women walking by faith and not by sight, Associate Pastor Carolyn J. Robinson- Insecurity and jealousy. Pastor Elaine Dixon- Communication issues and Sister Laverne Douglas- personal hygiene, grooming and health awareness.

Registration is $10 for the workshops beginning @9 a.m. Saturday. Continental breakfast, prayer, and get acquainted begins at 9:30 a.m.

Workshop teachings begin at 10 a.m. with lunch at noon.

Men, women, teenagers, all denominations and cultures are invited to attend both Friday night and Saturday morning, casual dress on Saturday.

After the workshop will be a panel board of discussion for questions and answers.

For more information contact 352-317-2540, 352-214-5931 or 386-344-4850. If you will be attending the workshop, call ASAP for food count. Dr. Apostle Donald Kelly- Overseer.

23rd Annual T r i - C o u n t y P e s t i c i d e Update

The Union, Baker and Bradford County Extension Services will be offering an annual tri-county pesticide update on Feb. 5, beginning at 5 to 9 p.m. at the Lake Butler Community Center in Union County. Register by Feb. 1, to reserve your place at this meeting. Special guests speakers will include Barton Wilder, UF/IFAS Extension Agent Alachua County, Nick Dufault, UF/IFAS Plant Pathology Specialist, and Dr. Susan Webb, ASO Professor, UF/IFAS Entomology and Nematology.

Registration will begin at 5 p.m. with presentations starting promptly at 5:30 p.m.

The cost is $10 for early registration and $15 for late registration, which will include price of meal. Contact your local county agent or the Union County Extension Office (386) 496-2321 for additional details.Persons with disabilities needing special accommodations should contact the Extension Office at least 10 working days prior

to the event so that special consideration can be given to the request.

Become a mentor

The Take Stock in Children program in Union County is looking for new mentors to help change young lives in the community. Take Stock in Children in a statewide non-profit organization and the Foundation for Florida Gateway College serves as the lead agency for the program in Baker, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist and Union counties. Take Stock in Children pairs good students, who have the odds stacked against them, with mentors who provide the support, encouragement and guidance they need to succeed in school. Mentors meet with their mentees for 30 minutes every week on the school campus. All it takes is a little time to make a difference that will last a lifetime. For more information on Take Stock in Children, contact the program office at 386-754-4392 or mailto:antonia.robinson@fgc.edu.

Programs to benefit Seniors

Activity programs have been set at the Worthington Springs community center to benefit the senior citizens of Worthington Springs. Programs will be held on Mondays and Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. A variety of games are available. Non-expensive meals are also available to help raise funds.

Medicare/Medicaid counseling set

There will be free Medicare/Medicaid counseling sponsored by SHINE on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of every month from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Union County Health Department, 495 E. Main St. in Lake Butler.

SHINE counselors assist seniors and persons with disabilities to understand health insurance choices, apply for assistance and file appeals.

SHINE does not sell insurance or represent any insurance entity. For information or to learn about volunteering for SHINE, call the Elder Helpline at 1-800-963-5337.

WorthNoting

Free Clothing for ‘the family’

There will be free clothes for “all of the family” on the first and third Saturday of each month, from 9:30 a.m. to noon at Fellowship Baptist Church in Raiford right off Hwy 121 just before entering town. Follow the signs.

Host an Exchange Student

World Heritage Student Exchange Program, a highly respected, non-profit, public-benefit organization, is seeking local host families for high school boys and girls from Scandinavia, France, Germany, Italy, Thailand, China, South Korea, and the former Soviet Republics. Students are already awaiting word on their host families for the 2013-2014 academic school year (or semester). Host families provide room, board, and guidance for a teenager living thousands of miles from home. Couples, single parents, and families with or without children in the home are all encouraged to apply.

The exchange students arrive from their home country shortly before the 2013/14 school year begins and each World Heritage student is fully insured, brings his/her own personal spending money and expects to bear his/her share of household responsibilities, as well as being included in normal family activities and lifestyles.

If you are interested in opening your home and sharing your family life with a young person from abroad, call local Area Representative Diana Capito at 904-553-9172 or 1-800-888-9040 (toll free). You can also visit the website at www.whHosts.com.

Rotary meetThe Lake Butler Rotary meets

weekly on Tuesday, at noon at the First Christian Church. Prospective members are invited to attend. Lake Butler Rotary is part of Rotary International. For more information contact G. Bird at 386-496-2526, or ask any Rotarian.

4A Union County Times • Thursday, Jan. 24, 2013

Recent changes in Clerk of Courts office

Clerk of Court Kellie Hendricks Connell informed the Board of County Commissioners at the regular monthly meeting held this past Tuesday, that she was restructuring the Clerk’s office and that there was no longer a finance director. Donna Jackson previously filled this position.

Connell said, “I am in the process of restructuring the finance staff in the Clerk of Courts office. Donna Jackson has been placed in a different position. Myself and/or other finance staff are handling some of her duties while the need for a finance director position is being evaluated.”

After Connell’s announcement, Commissioner Wayne Smith said, “She has been the clerk for about ten days now and I believe she will be outstanding and a pleasure to work with.”

Current financial report for the county.Lacey Boatright with the Clerk of Courts office said, “The low balance in the Road

Department fund is due to the expense of repairing damages caused by Tropical Storm Debby and is pending reimbursement from FEMA.”

UCHA meets 2nd Monday

The Union County Housing Authority will hold its board meetings on the second Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m.

Meetings take place at the housing authority’s main office, 715 W. Main St., in Lake Butler and are open to the public.

City of Lake Butler meeting

The Lake Butler City Commission meets the second Monday of the month at 5:15 p.m. at city hall, 200 S.W. First St. For more information, call (386) 496-3401.

UCBCC meetThe Union County Board of

County Commissioners meets on the third Monday of each month at 7 p.m. The meetings take place in the commission meeting room located inside the Union County Courthouse. For more information, call (386) 496-4241.

Raiford town council meet

The Raiford Town Council meets on the second Tuesday of every month at 5 p.m. at Raiford Town Hall, located at the corner of S.R. 121 and C.R. 229 in Raiford.

Worthington Springs council meet

The town council of Worthington Springs meets on the first Tuesday of every month at 7:30 p.m. Meetings are held at the Worthington Springs Community Center, located on S.R. 121 in Worthington Springs.

Dial-a-Story Children can hear a story by

calling 386-496-2542. Dial-a-story is a free telephone service provided by the Union County Public Library. Stories are appropriate for young children and are changed weekly.

The UCPL also has a TumbleBook library link located on the UCPL website for school-aged children.

TumbleBooks are created with added animation, sound, music and narration to existing picture books. Visit www.newriver.lib.fl.us/kids-page/ or call 386-496-3432for more information.

Santa Fe Invitation

Santa Fe Mennonite Church welcomes all to attend service on Sundays at 9:30 a.m. and the 1st and 3rd Sunday of each month at 6 p.m. The church is located at 4555 SW 107th Ave. Contact 386-984-0938 or 352-339-2249 for more information.

Morning Star fundraisers

Morning Star Baptist Church will have a yard sale and a bake sale on Saturday, Feb. 2, from

8 a.m. until 2 p.m. Morningstar is located on half mile from the intersection of S.R. 121 and C.R. 18 in Worthington Springs.

Morning Star welcomes all

Morningstar Baptist Church invites everyone to come to worship. The church is located on C.R. 18, one half mile west of S.R. 121 and the C.R. 18 intersection in Worthington Springs. Sunday school begins at 10 a.m., Sunday morning worship begins at 11 a.m. and Sunday evening worship begins at 6 p.m. Wednesday evenings there will be a covered dish meal and fellowship at 6 p.m.

Children and adult bible study and prayer at 7 p.m. For more information contact 386-719-2148 or email revmadivine@bellsouth.net

SandersonChristian

The SCRC second Friday night sing will begin again in March.

Church News

Thursday, Jan. 24, 2013 • Union County Times 5A

9 2 2 E a s t C a l l S t r e e t | S t a r ke, F L | S h a n d s S t a r ke. c o m

know good foods. know active living.know hearts.We

Heart disease can be the result of genetics, behavior and environment, but there are always ways to lower your risk. Join Dr. Dragstedt as he discusses symptoms and risks that are unique to women as well as prevention tips for a healthier heart.

Heart Disease in Women: A Focus on Symptoms and PreventionFriday, February 1, Noon to 1:00 p.m.Hospital AtriumFeatured Speaker: Carl A. Dragstedt, D.O., University of Florida Cardiologist

The seminar is free, but space is limited. Lunch will be provided. RSVP online at ShandsStarke.com or call 904-368-2349.

Smokeno more.

As of January 1, our campus is now entirely tobacco free.

Thank you for not smoking.ShandsStarke.com

Lake Butler Elementary School

Every week, LBES teachers are given the opportunity to choose at least one student in their class to be the Tiger Cub. Students are chosen based on behavior, academic excellence or improvement. Students receive a ribbon and certificate from their teachers for being chosen. Last week’s Tiger Cub were:

Aaron Alexander, Bionca Cummings, Carson Denson, Noah Douglass, Elizabeth Guadagnoli, Matt Hedrick, Jill Alie Hercule-Espinal, Kiera Hunter, Mason Kight, Douglas Knagge, Eric Marshall, Landen Miller, Martin Odum, Kaitlyn Parrish, Dillon Seay, Karlie Starling, Collin Thomas, Sariah Thomas, Colby Thornton, Carli Trent, Brooklyn Williams, Xander Williams and Katrina Wright.

Honor Roll ceremonies will begin Monday, Jan. 28, at 8:45 a.m. for 4th grade and 9:45 for Kindergarten.

On Tuesday, Jan. 29, the 3rd grade ceremony will begin at 8:15 a.m. and the 1st grade assembly will begin at 9:15.

On Wednesday, Jan. 30, the 2nd grade ceremony will be held at 8:15 a.m.

All of the ceremonies will be held in the LBES cafeteria.

Pre-orders for the 2012 - 2013 LBES yearbook are still being accepted. The price is $30. Cash or checks accepted. Make checks payable to LBES. Order forms are available in the office.

Achieve 3000, also known as Kid Biz 3000, is a powerful, proven, differentiated online literacy instruction program for students in grades 2 through 4 that reaches every student at his or her reading level. Within the program, students are given multiple opportunities to improve their reading skills through a series 12 different reading levels, along with formative assessments linked to state and common core

standards. Children earn points that are calculated and compared state and nationwide. Currently, two of the LBES fourth grade students are ranked top in the state. Achieve 3000 is an online program that students may access from home. To log on, a student uses his or her 5-digit number for both the username and password. www.kidbiz3000.com

Sumdog is another educational website that students from LBES can use. The website offers free math games that are designed to improve mental fluency at levels as young as first grade. Contests are periodically held both statewide and within LBES. Sumdog is an online w e b -based program t h a t can be

accessed from home.

Students log in using their 5-digit student

number. At http://www.sumdog.com (school code is lake_18)

The 50-point book club is designed to acknowledge LBES’ top readers in the accelerated reader program. Students that have earned 50 points and maintained an average of 80 percent or higher will have their

photos displayed in the cafeteria and receive a special medallion at the 4th nine weeks ceremony. Gold seals will be placed on the photos of the students each time they reach 100 points.

The newest 50-point book club members are: Cole Anderson-Davis, John Dekle, Jill Alie Hercule-Espinal, Emily Johnson, Tracy Medina, Jake O’Steen, Amy Owen, Charity Thompson and Demarius Williams.

Brycen Peacock, (100 points) Andrew Laux, (150 points) Hannah Perron, (150 points.)

Lake Butler Middle School

The SWAT county tobacco free partnership meetings are scheduled for every early release day at the Lakeside Community Center. This is opportunity for county partners to come together and discuss the county’s concerns regarding tobacco issues. Lunch is provided at each meeting. All are welcomed to attend. The meeting begins at 1 p.m.

Union County High School

Send your empty ink and laser jet cartridges to UCHS Project G.R.A.D. fundraiser “Empties4Cash”. Any size, type, or brand. Project

G.R.A.D. can earn up to $4 for each empty cartridge. Wrap them up in newspaper or a zip lock bag and send them in with your student. Pick up available for businesses. For more information call 904-263-2257.

Project GRAD class of 2013 will meet on Monday, Jan. 28, at 6:15 p.m. in the Union County High School library to vote on activities and upcoming fundraisers.

School News6A Union County Times • Thursday, Jan. 24, 2013