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THE EMERALD STAR NEWS, A FREE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER...“free”-HOW??From the businesses advertising in this issue. Thank each one as you go to their store.Yes it’s true. The rising demand for this newspaper our delivering needs we could not meet each week. If you live a bit further out we will get it to you.We need advertising help too, just give us a call today!The Emerald Star News is published bi-weekly. We are locally owned and operated in Freeport, Florida in Walton County.
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Volume: 6 Issue: 10 May 22, 2014 bi-weekly Edition merald Star News E The A style of it’s own a community Based Newspaper Free offered ‘free’ …….from our business Advertisers inside this week Made possible by your local advertising businesses in this edition. Real Estate listings inside: Do you have a business? Lowest Rates in the county! We’d like to see you advertise with us! Call today: 850-585-0262 Theemeraldstarnews.blogspot.com This is our new web site: Theemeraldstarnews.blogspot.com New e-mail address: [email protected] Promoting the growth of Freeport in every edition Since ‘2008 For every copy picked up, a business gathers a new customer base of readership. Welcome to all you visiting our little slice of heaven... Thanks for reading……..enjoy :) A day to remember that All gave some, and some gave All. Take time to realize their sacrifices that once were, allow us all to be free and live how we choose to. If not for those people America would not have come to grow into what she has become. Respect what was, so not to repeat troubles. Top News this Edition: Conviction for Trafficking Luther Author Horn, III, a 65-year-old Freeport resident, was convicted by a Walton County Jury of two counts of trafficking in illegal drugs and one ……..…….Page 3 Mayor’s Post ....Page 5 Walton Students - No Make Up Days Walton will not have to make up the missed the missed rain days. Superintendent Carlene Anderson has been checking…...Page 6 Horoscopes……….Page 8 Florida Department of Health and Orlando Health PROVIDE UPDATE ON MErs-CoV IN FLORIDA ~The investigation is contained and there is no broad risk to the general public~ The Florida……..….Page 10
Transcript
Page 1: May 22, 2014 Edition

Volume: 6 Issue: 10 May 22, 2014 bi-weekly Edition

merald Star News E The

A style of it’s own — a community Based Newspaper

Free

offered ‘free’ …….from our business Advertisers inside this week

Made possible by your local

advertising businesses in this edition.

Real Estate listings inside:

Do you have a business?

Lowest Rates in the county!

We’d like to see you advertise

with us!

Call today: 850-585-0262

Theemeraldstarnews.blogspot.com

This is our new web site:

Theemeraldstarnews.blogspot.com New e-mail address:

[email protected]

Promoting the growth of Freeport in every edition Since ‘2008

For

ever

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op

y p

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ed u

p, a

busi

ness

gat

her

s a

new

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om

er

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ader

ship

. W

elco

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ou v

isit

ing o

ur

litt

le s

lice

of

hea

ven..

. T

han

ks

for

read

ing

……

..en

joy :

)

A day to remember that All gave some, and

some gave All. Take time to realize their

sacrifices that once were, allow us all to be

free and live how we choose to.

If not for those people America would not

have come to grow into what she has become.

Respect what was, so not to repeat troubles.

Top News this Edition:

Conviction for Trafficking

Luther Author Horn, III, a 65-year-old

Freeport resident, was convicted by a Walton

County Jury of two counts of trafficking in

illegal drugs and one ……..…….Page 3

Mayor’s Post …....Page 5

Walton Students -

No Make Up Days Walton will not have to make up the missed

the missed rain days. Superintendent Carlene

Anderson has been checking…...Page 6

Horoscopes……….Page 8

Florida Department of Health

and Orlando Health PROVIDE UPDATE ON MErs-CoV IN

FLORIDA ~The investigation is contained

and there is no broad risk to the general

public~ – The Florida……..….Page 10

Page 2: May 22, 2014 Edition

Hello everybody. I hope this finds you all doing well. I was

doing a lot of reading and one story stayed at the fore-front

of my mind. I’d like to share a few pieces of that story.

Remember we all are in this together. What can we do now to save our

children’s children a future to look forward to. There must be something, someone that

knows what I mean.

When the baby boomers were kids there was a generation gap. We boomers believed in

long hair; our parents wanted us to cut our hair. We voted for Kennedy, Johnson and

McGovern. They liked Ike and supported Richard Nixon. We wanted to turn on, tune in

and drop out. They wanted us to go to school and get a job.

Of course that's an oversimplification of the early days of the baby boom. But there are

some generalizations about today's baby boomers (born between 1946 and 1964) and

our children, the millennials (born between 1981 and 1995), that are more grounded in

fact. Paul Taylor of the Pew Research Center has written a book called "The Next

America" which relies on public opinion surveys and demographic data to highlight

some of the contrasts between the generations. Here are some of the major differences

between baby boomers and millennials:

1. It's true that people get more conservative as they age. According to Pew Re-

search, 59 percent of baby boomers favor smaller government. Millennials exhibit no

more trust in the establishment than baby boomers did, yet the majority of millennials,

53 percent, say they want a bigger government that offers more services.

2. The generations basically agree on Social Security. Despite their preference for

small government, boomers oppose making cuts in Social Security to secure the long-

term future of the program. Millennials are slightly more open to Social Security re-

forms, with 37 percent thinking some reductions to Social Security need to be consid-

ered, compared to just 29 percent of baby boomers. But for many Millennials it's a moot

point. Half of millennials don't believe they will receive Social Security when they re-

tire.

3. Millennials are more progressive on social issues. According to Pew Research,

baby boomers oppose gay marriage by a slim margin. But a solid majority (68 percent)

of millennials support gay marriage. An equal number support the legalization of mari-

juana. Millennials are less likely to be religious. Less than 70 percent of millennials say

they are affliliated with a particular religion, compared to 80 percent of the general

population.

4. But they are not necessarily Democrats. Despite a more liberal bent, millennials

are reluctant to identify with a political party. Half of millennials say they are Independ-

ents, compared to 27 percent registered as Democrats and 17 percent as Republicans.

Some 70 percent approved of President Obama when he was first elected president, but

that support has declined to about 50 percent.

5. Millennials are less affluent. This generation is the first in U.S. history to enter

adulthood in worse economic shape than their parents. The unemployment rate for mil-

lennials is higher than it was for their parents at the same age, and they have higher stu-

dent debt. A new Pew Research report says 37 percent of U.S. households headed by an

adult younger than 40 have student debt. Households with student loans have a median

net worth of $8,700 compared to $64,700 for households without student debt.

6. Millennials are reluctant to get married. But when they do, they are more likely to

marry someone of a different race. Back in the 1960s, less than 3 percent of marriages

were between people of different races or ethnicities. Today, it's 15 percent. More than a

quarter of Asians and Hispanics marry outside their ethnicity, as do one out of six Afri-

can Americans and 10 percent of whites. Half of millennials say intermarriage is a good

thing for society, compared with a third of boomers.

7. But maybe they do want to buy a home. Millennials have flocked to the cities. But

the jury is still out as to whether millennials will move back to the suburbs when they

get married and have children. According to a study by the National Association of

Realtors, fewer than 25 percent of 30 year olds own their own home, compared to 80

percent for boomers, and the number of young homeowners has been declining. Yet

according to the Washington think tank NDN, 64 percent of millennials say it is "very

important" to own their own home. Another survey by TD Bank found that 84 percent

of renters ages 18 to 34 intend to purchase a house in the future.

8. More millennials live at home than their parents did at the same age. More than a

fifth (22 percent) of households currently have two or more adult generations living

under the same roof, a level not seen since the end of World War II. But while this is a

symptom of the new generation gap, it does not mean there's a war between the genera-

tions. "It's hard to wage a war when you're living under the same roof,"

Just a thought: what if it was then like it is now, what would we have done differ-

ent to prevent it from only becoming worse, like it has been? Like it is becoming more

difficult to trust a person’s word, let alone a handshake.

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 en-

sure 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.

(850) 585-0262 Check us out on FACEBOOK!

E-mail info. to: [email protected]

**Main Office/Sales - 850-585-0262

Web Designer – Lee Cox

Contributing Editor - Maxwell Henninger

Page 2 The EMERALD STAR NEWS Inc. Thursday, May 22, 2014

Look online: theemeraldstarnews.blogspot.com

Mail invoices and other information to:

P.O. Box 1133 Freeport, Florida 32439

Quote of

the week :

The Wolfe’s Den

If you bring forth

what is within

you, what you

bring forth will

save you. If you

do not bring forth

what is within

you, what you do

not bring forth

will destroy you.

Jesus Christ

This newspaper is your voice to the county and all city or state employees, or

whomever it may concern. Have something to say? Good or bad? Let’s hear it!!

Don’t hesitate to make suggestions or send in your comments to us anytime on

any subject. Did you ever want to be a writer? Here’s your chance to be recog-

nized.

Send any and all inquiries to the address listed below.

We are an equal opportunity employer.

Emerald Coast Flowers & Gifts

93 Madison St., Freeport, Florida 32439

850-835-5200 or 850-267-2616

Full Service Florist- Worldwide Delivery

Gum Greek Cemetery 19th Annual Memorial Day Service

May 26, 2014 : 8:00am located just off SR-83 North of DeFuniak Springs

Gum Creek Cemetery, one of the oldest in Walton County, is thought to be at least 160 years old. It serves as the final resting place of veterans from America’s wars all the way back to the early 19th century, with 12 known Civil War veterans and one confirmed Seminole War veteran. In addition, there are many veterans from 20th century conflicts spanning from World War I through the Korean War laid to rest there as well.

For more information, please contact Tom Baker at 850-333-2195.

Page 3: May 22, 2014 Edition

Page 3 The EMERALD STAR NEWS Inc. Thursday, May 22, 2014

“free”-HOW??

From the businesses advertising in this issue.

Thank each one as you go to their store Yes it’s true. The rising demand for this newspaper made our delivering needs

so high, we could not meet each week. We have numerous locations all

throughout Freeport, south Walton and DeFuniak Springs to pick up a copy.

Interested in advertising help? Just give us a call today!

L.C.’S Pizza & Sub

Freeport Plaza, suite 6 (Next to Hardee’s)

Freeport, Florida

(850) 835-2122

Pizza-Wings-Burgers & Specialties Good times go with L.C.’s Lester/Cindy

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MUST SHOW THIS COUPON

SBA Disaster Loan Assistance Available to

Private Non-Profit Organizations in Florida ATLANTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration announced today that certain

Private Non-Profit Organizations (PNP) in Florida that do not provide critical services

of a governmental nature may be eligible to apply for low interest rate disaster loans.

These loans are available as a result of a Presidential disaster declaration for severe

storms, tornadoes and flooding on April 28 – May 6, 2014.

PNPs located in the following Florida counties: Escambia, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa and

Walton are eligible to apply. Examples of eligible non-critical PNP organizations in-

clude, but are not limited to, food kitchens, homeless shelters, museums, libraries, com-

munity centers, schools and colleges.

“PNP organizations are urged to contact their County’s Emergency Manager to obtain

information about local briefings. At the meeting, PNP representatives will need to

provide information about their organization,” said Frank Skaggs, director of SBA Field

Operations Center East in Atlanta. The information will be used to submit a Request

for Public Assistance which FEMA uses to determine if the PNP provides an essential

governmental service and meets the definition of a “critical facility.” Based upon that

conclusion, FEMA may provide the PNP with a Public Assistance reimbursement grant

for their eligible costs or refer the PNP to SBA for disaster loan assistance.

PNP organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or de-

stroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory and other business assets. The

interest rate is 2.625 percent with terms up to 30 years. Applicants may be eligible for a

loan amount increase up to 20 percent of their physical damages, as verified by the

SBA, to make improvements that help prevent the risk of future property damage

caused by a similar disaster.

The SBA also offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help meet working capital

needs, such as ongoing operating expenses to PNP organizations of all sizes. Economic

Injury Disaster Loan assistance is available regardless of whether the organization suf-

fered any physical property damage.

Applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application via SBA’s secure

website at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela.

Disaster loan information and application forms may also be obtained by calling the

SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 (800-877-8339 for the deaf and hard-

of-hearing) or by sending an e-mail to [email protected]. Loan applica-

tions can be downloaded from the SBA’s website at www.sba.gov/disaster. Completed

applications should be mailed to: U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and

Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155.

The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is July 14, 2014.

The deadline to return economic injury applications is February 16, 2015.

Conviction for Trafficking As reported by WZEP AM1460

Luther Author Horn, III, a 65-year-old Freeport resident, was convicted by a

Walton County Jury of two counts of trafficking in illegal drugs and one count of

possession with intent to sale, manufacture, or deliver a controlled substance.

On June 27, 2012 the Walton County Sheriff’s Office Vice/Narcotic Unit in con-

junction with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement used a confidential

informant to purchase various prescription pills from the Defendant at his home.

The confidential informant was able to record the transaction via equipment pro-

vided by the Sheriff’s Office. Based on the confidential informant’s purchase a

search warrant was issued for the Defendant’s residence.

During the execution of the search warrant, officers were able to determine that

the house had been divided into two separate structures by inserting a wall. Each

area was only accessible by an exterior door. During the search, hundreds of pre-

scription narcotics were found. Some of the narcotics were located in prescription

bottles of persons other than the defendant while a majority of the pills were dis-

covered in numerous ezy-dose pill packages tucked inside a briefcase.

At trial, the defense relied heavily on the Prescription defense as some of the

illegal narcotics were found in prescription bottles with the defendant’s name on

them. However, the State was able to introduce evidence from two witnesses that

many of the pills in the defendant’s possession had come from them. The State’s

witnesses testified that the Defendant would finance trips to South Florida for

them to secure pills and in exchange the Defendant would get the remaining pills.

Circuit Judge Howard LaPorte scheduled sentencing for June 17, 2014. Luther

Arthur Horn is facing minimum mandatory sentences of 25 and 15 years for the

trafficking convictions and could be sentenced up to 75 years for his crimes. This

conviction was the culmination of a 4-year investigation by the Walton County

Sheriff’s Office, Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the Office of the

State Attorney. Assistant State Attorney Josh Mitchell prosecuted the case.

A Sudanese immigrant living in New Hampshire has returned to Sudan to try

to save his wife, who is eight months pregnant and facing the death penalty there for

marrying a Christian. Daniel Wani is a Sudanese man with U.S. citizenship who has been

living in Manchester, N.H. His wife, Meriam Yehya Ibrahim Ishag, became the focus of

worldwide news reports last week after the Sudanese government sentenced her to death.

She is eight months pregnant.

The Islamic court considered Ishag a Muslim and did not recognize her marriage to

Wani, a Christian. That constituted a crime of adultery and she was sentenced to receive

100 lashes. The court also found her guilty of apostasy by converting to Christianity and

sentencing her to be hanged.

The flogging and the death penalty were to be delayed until after she gave birth.

Ishag is considered Muslim by Sudan's courts because her father was Muslim, though she

raised by her Christian mother. Wani and his brother, Gabriel Wani, grew up in Sudan

but moved to New Hampshire. Gabriel told ABC News affiliate WMUR that Daniel has

returned to Sudan to try and save his wife's life.

“I’m just praying for God. He can do a miracle,” he said. “Everyone is depressed. You

don’t believe it. It’s shock.”

“You cannot believe that’s going to happen,” Gabriel said. “It’s a good family, a happy

family.”

Neither Gabriel nor Daniel could be reached for comment.

The U.S. condemned Sudan's court ruling last week, with both the State Department and

the White House calling on Sudan to uphold its human rights commitments.

U.S. Sen. Kelly Ayotte, who represents New Hampshire, has asked Secretary of State

John Kerry to grant Ishag political asylum.

The Sudan Tribune reported over the weekend that the country's parliament speaker, al-

Fatih Izz Al-Din, downplayed the death sentence and said it was only preliminary and

could be appealed in the future.

Page 4: May 22, 2014 Edition

Wouldn't it be nice if you

knew exactly what to do to

lose weight successfully?

What you need is a fitness

tracker and a smart goal!

S.M.A.R.T. is an acronym to

remind you how to set a goal

that maps out exactly what you need to do. These goals are Specific,

Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound.

Don't just stack up data you get from a fitness device. Use the info you

track, your calories burned, food eaten, and hours slept to shape

S.M.A.R.T. goals for yourself.

Here's one example of how to do it. Look at your fitness device to see

how many calories you burn a week by exercising. Let's say it's 1,000

calories.

Use that data to bump up your calorie burn. For example, a S.M.A.R.T.

goal is “I will walk enough to burn at least 1,250 calories through exer-

cise this week.”

Specific. Rather than simply saying, “I’m going to exercise more,”

you’ve specified how many calories you’ll burn.

Measurable. Your device will track the calories you burn, so you’ll be

able to clearly know when you succeed.

Attainable. Since you’re already burning 1,000 calories a week through

exercise, bumping it up a bit should be manageable. To burn 1,250 calo-

ries, you’ll need to add about one extra workout.

Relevant. Exercise is totally relevant to weight loss! So exercising more

fits into your larger weight loss plan.

Time-bound. This is your goal for this week. Period. You can choose to

pursue this goal again next

week, or you can set a new

goal. It's easier to commit

to a goal -- and be success-

ful -- if you do it for a set

amount of time.

Thursday, May 22, 2014 The EMERALD STAR NEWS Inc.

Health Post George Roll P.A.-C

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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

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the best lil’ newspaper

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WC BCC As reported by WZEP AM1460

A number of young residents in baseball uniforms

are happy with a vote by the commissioners to ex-

pand sports recreational facilities south of the bay.

Staff presented the recommendation for the south

Walton sports complex. Administrator Jones said

they worked with the public and sought submissions

for location. He told the commissioners this nar-

rowed it down to two. Jones said they are recom-

mending both parcels, the South Walton Utilities

parcell and the Highway 98 parcell know as the M.C.

Davis parcell. Jones showed how they could be set

up with fields, concessions, parking and more. They

would lease the utilities property for an open green

space with a few restroom facilities that would allow

the public’s use. The 34.6 acres would be bought.

The recommendation is to extend a loan and add $10

million for both as well as some improvements to

Helen McCall Park. Jones said the extension of the

SunTrust line of credit would not increase the pay-

ments, only extend the time. Commissioners agreed

to start the process. Commissioner Meadows said

Helen McCall will be fenced, lighted and finished

out. Commissioner Comander noted the $10 million

is barley enough to buy the land and take care of the

start, but said it is a start and they could pay this

down and do more.

The commissioners approved putting Liberty Volun-

teer Fire District’s request to raise the annual fire fee

on the ballot. Will work to evaluate the fire district

rating, the ISO for the county and will offer to help

the cities and other districts. Approved seeking re-

quests to scan in all the documents the county has in

storage. Commissioner Cindy Meadows will repre-

sent the county on the airport board when Dawn Mo-

literno’s time runs out. The commissioners will lease

parking near Ed Walline Park. Commissioner Co-

mander asked about purchasing.

Brian Brigman, the party wanting to put a truck sales

in the Mossy Head Industrial Park, presented designs

for the building and grounds. County Administrator

Larry Jones said the design keeps what they were

wanting for the park. The county will seek a federal

grant for the wastewater treatment plant.

The Walton commissioners extended the local state

of emergency for another seven days. The road

grades were updated with the FDOT to allow for

proper designation on maps. Next week is designated

Emergency Medical Services Week and Public

Works Week.

The commissioners approved purchasing eight dump

trucks serviced by Empire Truck Company, approved

advertising for construction bids for parts of 3280

and 1084, approved the work on 183 south of I-10,

changed the bid supplier for fuel. A texting program

will help beach vendors become notified when they

can go on the beach each morning during turtle nest-

ing season. The TDC has identified 6 possible beach

accesses that can be improved or added.

The regular part of the meeting ended with a resident

talking about water from her neighbor’s new home

running into and through her yard, including through

her air conditioner. She said the codes have no provi-

sion to keep water on the single home property. The

new codes had the home being built two feet higher

than her 20-year-old home. This creates the situation

where the water sheds against her home.

Page 5: May 22, 2014 Edition

Russ Barley- Mayor-Freeport, Fl.

Greetings from the

Mayor’s Office, the City Council interviewed the top

five applicants for the firefighter position that was vacated and the

new fireman for the Freeport Fire Dept.., is Bradley Blackerby- con-

gratulations and welcome as an employee for the City of Freeport.

The leasing agreement between Chelco and the City of Freeport has

been signed concerning the new kiosk and this should be up and run-

ning in the near future. The city council also passed that the city

would be turning over accounts to a collection agency to help with

debts that have occurred over 90 days old. The council also had the

first reading of 2013-LSA-02 ordinance and the second reading will

be coming up at the next meeting and the city will also be looking at

purchasing a new flag pole for the City Flag along with the American

Flag being put down at the Working Water Front at Marse Landing,

estimates will be brought back to the council at the next meeting.

Councilwoman Elizabeth Brannon became the new President of the

Northwest Florida League of Cities recently and Freeport will host the

next league dinner here in Freeport on July 17, 2014. Councilwoman

Brannon and City Planner Latilda Hughes-Neel will also be attending

the Transportation Consortium on May 29-30/TPO-TCC as they are

selected members of these boards. The planning committee for the

first annual city festival have been busy meeting and plans are coming

along great- we recently had our Poster Art Contest which brought in

some 30 artist and the chosen art work to be used on the first Poster/T

-Shirts was entered by Marlena Ritenour of Freeport, congratulations,

she will be awarded the $100 prize and a plaque for her contribution.

Mark your calendars and look for the posters and save the date cards

about to go out in June, the event will take place on September 20,

2014 at the Freeport Regional Sports Complex- Hammock Bay. The

deadline for applications for the new City Clerk has come to a close

and we had 14 applicants vying for the position- the council will take

a look at the top 5 applicants and a new clerk will be selected. A

reminder that the City Pool will begin services on May 26th and also

a reminder to please go by the new Heritage Museum and take a look

at the history of Freeport, they are open Wednesday through Saturday,

12:00 (Noon)- 5:00 PM. Next City Council Meeting is Thursday, May

22, 2014 at 7:00 PM. Any questions or concerns please contact me at the city hall-850-835-2822.

Page 5

The FREEPORT POST

Thursday, May 22, 2014 The Emerald Star News, Inc.

The Mayors Post Russ Barley Freeport Mayor

Please send any and all comments

to The [email protected]

835-2558

Walk-in’S weLCome

Mon-Fri 8am-5pm

Come see Michelle, Lynn & Paige

Next to LC’s Pizza & Subs-FREEPORT PLAZA

Special Magistrate Rules As reported by WZEP AM1460

The Special Magistrate promised and delivered the opinion in the Walton School Board and

Walton County Education Association teacher impasse. The Special Magistrate presented a review

of both sides’ opinions and what the determination was. The result is an agreement with the

Board’s opinion and a recommendation to use the Board’s offer presented in March.

Thomas W. Young, III, the Special Magistrate selected by the Teacher's Union, made the ruling

quick to help provide time so Walton can still get the money offered by the state. The Magistrate’s

findings were released through a public records request.

The Walton County Education Association (WCEA) is the certified bargaining representative for

both the instructional and non-instructional or ESP’s. Negotiations for the 2013-2014 school year

between WCEA and the WCSD began on August 15, 2013 for both the Instructional unit and the

non-instructional unit. During the 2013-2014 school year, the legislature specifically allocated

funding for statewide salary increases. These funds were allocated in different amounts to each

school district and are commonly known as Teacher Allocation Funds (TAF). Because there was

ambiguity as to exactly who was entitled to these funds, the Department of Education issued a

Statewide Teacher Pay Increase Q&A updated on June 19, 2013, which remains current as May 2,

2014.

February 13, 2014, the WCSD submitted a proposal to both bargaining units regarding how to di-

vide the total TAF. Both union representatives and teams were at the table at that time. WCEA and

the District reached a tentative agreement on the district’s proposal for both bargaining units. The

tentative agreement specifically indicated that source of the funds for the salary adjustment was the

TAF. The WCEA submitted the tentative agreement to each bargaining unit for ratification. The

instructional unit voted the proposal down overwhelmingly while the ESP’s ratified the tentative

agreement. The Walton County School Board ratified the tentative agreement for both bargaining

units.The WCEA and WCSD returned to the table for three sessions for negotiations concerning

the instructional unit. On April 7, 2014 the district declared impasse. Members of the non-

instructional bargaining unit have received their retroactive salary increase and are receiving their

salary as adjusted by the ratified agreement. This agreement is being funded from the District’s

general fund balance until the overall TAF settlement can be reached.

The District says the WCEA negotiated in such a manner as to leave both the ESP and the Board

with the clear impression that they were allowing the parties to agree to a 309,000 pay raise that

expressly came from the TAF. Both Presidents of the ESP and WCEA units along with the Execu-

tive Director signed the Tentative Agreements on a single page with the Board’s chief negotiator

on February 13, 2014, clearly demonstrating the source of all future raises. He says there can be no

doubt there was an express waiver in this case.

As WCEA points out the agreement prior to ratification is “tentative”. WCEA correctly notes that

the instructional and non-instructional units are separate units and that each bargaining unit re-

quires a separate ratification vote. WCEA contends that once the instructional voted the proposal

down, they were entitled to return to the table “with a clean slate . . . to bargain a salary acceptable

to the instructional unit.”

The Magistrate says the WCEA argument is compelling, logical and consistent with the letter and

intent of the collective bargaining law. It is concluded that there was no waiver, express or im-

plied, to prevent the WCEA from changing its position at the bargaining table once the tentative

agreement had been rejected by the bargaining unit members in a contract ratification vote. WCEA

was entitled to return to the bargaining table to seek a salary increase that fully utilized the funds

made available by the TAF.

Special Magistrate 2

The findings continue with the Special Magistrate saying the issue remaining to be addressed in

these proceedings is the amount of salary increase that is appropriate for instructional bargaining

unit members.

Factors to be given weight by the special magistrate in making recommendations to resolve the

impasse

Section 447.405 specifies that the following factors, among others, shall be given weight by the

special magistrate in making recommendations to resolve the impasse:

(1) Comparison of annual income of employment of the public employees in question with the an-

nual income of employment maintained for the same or similar work of employees exhibiting like

or similar skills under the same or similar working conditions in the local operating area involved.

(2) Comparison of the annual income of employment of the public employees in question with the

annual income of employment of public employees in similar public employee governmental bod-

ies of comparable size within the state.

(3) Interest and Welfare of the Public.

Story continued on next page…………………..

Page 6: May 22, 2014 Edition

WCSO Deputies Rescue Woman,

Husband Arrested on Multiple

Domestic Violence Charges

Deputies responded to a home off Forest Shore Drive in Miramar Beach on Satur-

day, May 10th, after a third party contacted the Broward County Sheriff’s Office

stating she received a text from a friend from the above location that read “Send the

police do not call back.” Deputies arrived at the Miramar Beach home and contact

was made with the victim. The victim was visibly upset, had bruises around her

neck consistent with being choked, bruises on her arms, legs and shoulders and a

laceration underneath her chin. The victim told deputies that she was held against

her will by her husband for several days and that he also threatened to kill her. The

husband, William Alfred Bozeman, 48, of Miramar Beach, choked his wife twice

and held a knife to her throat stating, “I’m gonna kill you.” Bozeman also took his

wife’s phone in an attempt to keep her from contacting law enforcement.

Bozeman is charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, battery, battery

by strangulation, false imprisonment and obstructing justice by intimidation or

threaten a witness.

Thursday, May 22, 2014 The EMERALD STAR NEWS Inc. Page 6

Sm

iles are co

ntag

ious…

sho

w y

ours N

OW

!

Sassy is a 4-5 year old terrier mix

who came to Alaqua Animal Refuge

last August. She was pregnant,

scared, and had been living with

many other animals without vet

care. After she delivered all of her

puppies safely, she took great care

of them and Alaqua took great care

of her family. Since then, all of her

babies have found their forever

homes and she is ready to find hers.

She plays well with other dogs and

children. She is also a graduate of

the Unconditional Love Program.

She is truly sweet and ready to go to

a loving home.

Healthmark Health

Matters Asthma or something else?

When children experience wheez-

ing episodes, does this mean the

child has asthma? According to Dr.

Jay L. Hoecker, M.D., of the Mayo

Clinic, the answer is: not necessar-

ily. Not all children who have

wheezing episodes will develop

asthma, and not all children who

have asthma wheeze.

Wheezing is a whistling sound

made during breathing. Because a

child's airways are so small, any

lower respiratory infection, such as

respiratory syncytial virus (RSV),

can cause wheezing in children.

Sometimes a choking episode

causes wheezing. In other cases, a

structural abnormality in the air-

ways or an issue with the vocal

cords can contribute to wheezing in

children.

However, that said, wheezing is a

classic sign of asthma, especially

wheezing that occurs frequently. In

addition to wheezing, other signs

and symptoms of asthma in a young

child might include difficulty

breathing, chest tightness, frequent

coughing or coughing that gets

worse after active play or changes

in the weather.

A child's risk of asthma is higher

if he or she has an allergic condi-

tion. Such conditions may include

eczema or a food allergy. The risk

is higher if there is a family history

of asthma or allergic conditions.

If your child seems to be having

breathing problems, contact Dr. Ed-

ward Tenewitz at Healthmark Walk

-In Clinic, (850) 951-4556.

Walton Students -

No Make Up Days

Walton will not have to make up the

missed the missed rain days. Superin-

tendent Carlene Anderson has been

checking with the state to see if the

students have meet the requirements

or will they be required to make up a

day. The Walton School District’s

request for a waiver for April 30-May

1 storm days has been granted by

Commissioner Pam Stewart. They will

not have to make up the days.

ISP Report To Be Given,

Not In Workshop

The Institute of Senior Professionals has

worked with Walton County to look at the

processes of the Tourist Development

Council. The groups recommendation

highlighted needs as well as opportunities.

The recommendations, though only that,

were generally acted upon. The City of

DeFuniak Springs also asked the ISP to

look at their needs and opportunities. A

workshop to present the report was sched-

uled, then cancelled after logistics brought

concerns of meeting sunshine require-

ments.

At Monday night’s DeFuniak Springs City

Council meeting, Mayor Campbell noti-

fied the Council the workshop was can-

celled. The original workshop meeting had

to be rescheduled from April 21st to May

22nd due having all the council members

present. He explained they were having

trouble meeting with all the council mem-

bers and splitting brought sunshine law

concerns. City Manager Sara Bowers tells

WZEP First News the ISP wanted to split

the council up during the workshop and

this could cause logistical issues as far as

the sunshine law is concerned so the ISP

decided to cancel the workshop and issue

a report to the council.

Campbell explained the ISP’s report

would be sent to each Council member for

their review. He said a workshop or meet-

ing would be scheduled if and when the

Council said they wanted one.

Laurie Hood of Alaqua

Animal refuge is Awarded

the Daily Point of Light

Award from George H. W.

Bush

Laurie Hood, founder of Alaqua Animal

Refuge, received the Daily Point of Light

Award from President George H. W. Bush.

President Bush created the "Daily Point of

Light Award" in 1989 to recognize ordi-

nary Americans from all walks of life tak-

ing direct and consequential voluntary ac-

tion in their communities to solve serious

social problems.

She says she feels deeply honored to be

chosen as a Daily Point of Light honoree.

Laurie has spent the last seven years creat-

ing a safe haven for animals in need. She

rescues abused, neglected, and homeless

animals and has saved almost 10,000 ani-

mals since 2007.

President Bush devotes attention to volun-

tary service as a means of solving some of

America's most serious social problems. In

The Points of Light Movement: The Presi-

dent's Report to the Nation, President Bush

wrote, "Points of Light are the soul of

America. They are ordinary people who

reach beyond themselves to touch the lives

of those in need, bringing hope and oppor-

tunity, care and friendship. By giving so

generously of themselves, these remark-

able individuals show us not only what is

best in our heritage but what all of us are

called to become."

Page 7: May 22, 2014 Edition

‘Happenings’ in DeFuniak Springs

Thursday, May 22, 2014 The EMERALD STAR NEWS Inc. Page 7

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Teen Wakes Up In Hotel Room

After Accepting Drink As reported by WZEP AM1460

The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office is investi-

gating after an 18-year-ld reported waking up in a

hotel with a stranger after she accepted a drink at a

Destin nightspot.

The girl says she went to Nightown around 1:30

a.m. May 18th. She accepted a drink from a man

and says she doesn’t remember anything else after

that time until waking up in a hotel room. Deputies

say the teen, who had numerous bruises, was taken

to North Okaloosa Medical Center for examina-

tion. An investigation is underway.

Anyone with information on the suspected sexual

assault is asked to contact the OCSO at 850-651-

7400 or Emerald Coast Crime Stoppers at 850-863

-TIPS.

Con’t from pg 5… 4) Comparison of peculiarities of em-

ployment with regard to other trades or

professions.

(5) Availability of Funds

He says both parties introduced evidence

regarding comparability. The WCEA

presented testimony and exhibits to sup-

port the position that the average salaries

in Walton County have steadily dropped

over the past years. WCEA argues that,

when the salary schedule itself is com-

pared to other districts with a comparable

student population, it can be seen that

Walton County is near or at the bottom

looking at the minimum, 5th step, 10th

step and the maximum step on the salary

schedule. The Magistrate says perhaps

the most compelling evidence presented

by WCEA regarding this factor was pro-

vided by Chris Mayer, who testified that

after seven years in the district, his salary

has increased only $600. It is WCSD’s

position that the salaries for Walton

County instructional staff compare very

favorably with those of surrounding dis-

tricts and districts of comparable size.

When considering a comparison of the

annual income of the teachers in Walton

County with the annual income of teach-

ers in the local operating area involved,

the comparison indicates many places in

the surrounding counties’ salary steps

where Walton’s teachers are paid more.

The findings of the Magistrate says

WCSD’s evidence and testimony regard-

ing comparability establishes that the

salaries of Walton County instructional

staff members compare very favorably in

the majority of cases to those of staff

members in districts in the surrounding

geographical area and in districts of com-

parable size. The testimony and exhibits

indicate further that, with the implemen-

tation of the District’s wage proposal, the

comparison will be even more favorable.

He says Mr. Mayer’s testimony concern-

ing his own lack of salary increases for

the past seven years continues to be trou-

bling, but his situation can be explained

in part by the fact that his first year in

Walton County was 2008, the beginning

of the worst recession in our country’s

history, and the economy, including edu-

cational funding, was severely impacted

thereafter, including to the current time.

The Magistrate says, upon consideration

of the evidence and testimony of record,

it is concluded that the instructional staff

salary schedule proposed by the District

compares favorably to those of other dis-

tricts in the area as well as to other dis-

tricts of similar size.

DFS Shooting Investigation Early morning shooting ends with investigation. Officers with the DeFuniak Springs Police responded to a disturbance involving multiple shots fired at 512 Dorsey Avenue (Highlighter’s Club) in the early morning hours on Sat-urday, May 10th, 2014. Officers arrived around 1:40 AM to find patrons quickly leaving the establishment. Witnesses reported that a physical alterca-tion broke out inside the club that spilled over to the parking lot. That’s when a suspect, described as a stocky black male, brandished a pistol and began firing towards one of the brawlers and their vehicle. The victim then fled in the vehicle, but wrecked approximately a half a mile away on the railroad tracks where Dorsey Avenue and Baldwin Avenue intersect.

Investigators determined that a .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol was used and multiple shell casings were found in the Club parking lot. A bullet hole was discovered in the vehicle driven by the victim. Fortunately, no injuries were reported as a result of the shooting or the traffic crash.

A BOLO of the suspect's vehicle was put out and some persons of interest were located by the Walton County and the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Of-fices during a traffic stop on I-10. The subjects were questioned about the incident and a vehicle was seized. The investigation is continuing and no arrests have been made as of this release. Anyone with information regard-ing this incident is asked to contact Detective Dees at 850-892-8513. You can remain anonymous by contacting the TIPS line at 850-910-TIPS(8477).

Obituary for George William Farrington

Mr. George William Farrington, age 78 , passed

away Monday, May 19, 2014. He was born May 5,

1936 in Basin Bayou, Florida to Torrance and

Sophia Furnier Farrington.

Mr. Farrington was a resident of Freeport. He was

Baptist by faith and a member of the Freeport First

Baptist Church where he served as Chairman of the

Deacons and taught the Men’s Bible Class. He

worked as a bookkeeper at the Freeport Oil Termi-

nal, and also at Frank’s Cash and Carry and also

worked as Plant Manager at the Freeport Middle

School. He enjoyed working in the yard and study-

ing his Bible.

Mr. Farrington is preceded in death by his parents,

two sisters Virginia Wood, and infant sister and

one brother Goodloe Farrington.

Mr. Farrington is survived by his loving wife of 51

years Mary Sue Farrington of Freeport, Florida,

one son George Richard Farrington and wife Robin

Lynn of Freeport, Florida, one daughter Dinah Sue

Decker and husband Jay “Moose” of Barbaraville,

Kentucky, two brothers David Farrington and wife

Mary of Freeport, Florida and James Farrington

and wife Bertha of Arlington, Texas, two sisters

Margie Clark of Knoxville, Tennessee and Jean

Rollins of Ft. Walton beach, Florida, six grandchil-

dren Julie Farrington, Amber Nicole Decker.,

Joshua Decker, Justin Decker, Mike Maddock and

Ben Flanigan and seven great grandchildren Lillie,

Ray, Madison, Alyss, Dillan, Mason and Danielle.

A time of visitation will be held 6:00~8:00 PM,

Wednesday, May 21, 2014 at Freeport First Baptist

Church at 430 Kylea Laird Road, Freeport, Florida

32439.

Graveside services will be held 10:00 AM, Satur-

day, May 24, 2014 at Hatcher Cemetery with Pas-

tor Sam Dunaway officiating.

Floral arrangements are being accepted or dona-

tions may be made to the Freeport First Baptist

Church; 430 Kylea Laird Road, Freeport, Florida

32439. You may go online to view obituaries, offer

condolences and sign guest book at www.clary-

glenn.com. Clary-Glenn Freeport Chapel Funeral

Home is entrusted with the arrangements.

Page 8: May 22, 2014 Edition

Page 8 The EMERALD STAR NEWS, Inc. Thursday, May 22, 2014

Ph: 850-835-4153 www.freeportwaterfront.com

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Page 9: May 22, 2014 Edition

Thursday, May 22, 2014 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

newspaper to everyone you know!

Advertising specials going on NOW!!

Please thank those advertisers in this issue,

because of them -we can continue to promote

business in Walton county. Thank you

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You suddenly have little patience for other people's values. Not that you don't appreciate other opinions; it's

just that you're long overdue for taking stock of what's important to you. Something to consider Monday and

Tuesday. Wednesday launches you into much more abstract terrain. Advanced ideas, humanitarianism at

large, the discovery of world events you knew little about -- this is what's on your mind

Part of figuring out what you want is getting what you want and seeing if you like it. So, do some research.

On Tuesday, you begin work on a new project that might transform your outlook on everything. Wednesday

and Thursday are less clear days, relatively -- camouflage and clouds figure metaphorically -- but a home-

cooked meal on Friday night returns you to solid footing.

Lose yourself in your own thoughts. Ask for extra time with any paperwork that requires your signature.

Take naps if you want. You'll burn enough calories on Wednesday and Thursday -- exciting days, both -- for

an entire week's worth of adventure. Friday and Saturday (when patience and permanence are major themes)

return you to a slower pace, but, again, not for long

Your friends are tremendous people, and they'd love to help. If something is getting you down, plenty of

opportunities to do something about that. Get that weight off your shoulders; open up. Wednesday and

Thursday you'll be too busy rushing around -- uncharacteristically so -- to have heartfelt conversations with

your pals. But Friday and Saturday, you find yourself effortlessly relating to your friends.

The questions you have about your career aren't going to go away -- the current quandary is just the most

recent manifestation of a very basic issue, so don't stress the details. Focus on being creative (and enjoying

yourself!) and pretty much everything else will click into place (eventually). Wednesday and Thursday, seek

the advice of close friends -- and the occasional acquaintance (why not?)

Your mind wanders on Monday and Tuesday, and ends up in the funniest places. This is, believe it or not,

productive. These daydreams make for swell anecdotes as well. You're more in tune with others than you

have been in a while, although Wednesday and Thursday, as social as you feel like being, you're better off

doing your own thing. (If you do end up being social, take care to think before speaking.)

Your instincts are in top form at the start of the week, and so are your listening skills. Combined, they'll get

you out of any tricky situation. As you gear up to make a big decision, count on your friends to bring to light

aspects of your current circumstance you might not have considered before. You enjoy learning new things -

- even when they're new (and potentially embarrassing) things about yourself.

You never know what's going on in someone else's life. If you have the impulse to criticize a friend on Mon-

day or Tuesday, consider that you might not have the full story. Wednesday and Thursday, as happy as you

may be, relations with coworkers are strained, and you may end your days in a state of frustration, but you

don't need to let work issues ruin your end-of-the-week plans. Friday and Saturday, you and you-know-who

are more compatible than ever.

Even while you're juggling a million other things, you have your eye on the world around you. And when you

see something beautiful, you point it out to your friends. You're a pleasure to be around these days, which ex-

plains why, midweek, someone is all over you. It may not even be a romantic thing; it could be a business thing.

You have the power to make Thursday either wonderful or terrible -- it pretty much depends on you

Monday and Tuesday are dreamy and wonderful; the dream motif is especially apt -- you merely have to wish

for something to be true and suddenly it is. Romantically, you've never been better off. It's rare for the fantasy

realm to so perfectly impose on real life. Wednesday and Thursday constitute something of a reality check. Not

that they're bad days, but you will have to lift a finger, sadly.

Listening to someone tell a story from their past on Monday gets you thinking about your own emotionally rich

history. Look how far you've come! The challenges you face right now are nothing compared with the chal-

lenges you've already surmounted. Nothing can get in the way of your unbelievable talents (plus, expect a ro-

mantic subplot to occupy your evenings) and Friday and Saturday's demands on you are very doable.

There are many ways to express yourself. Look into a new tactic on Monday and Tuesday. Writing a poem?

Writing a song? Finding an original way to communicate with you-know-who will not only help you feel more

connected to this person, it will flatter them. Wednesday and Thursday, your creativity won't be much use in

solving a career or family problem. But Friday and Saturday were made for creativity -- as well as romance.

Dear Editor,

I was glad to see new advertisers coming

in to help your endeavor. You deserve it.

I liked how you put different topics of

things that we might not have heard of.

Things will pick-up for you as Freeport

grows, leave the rest behind you.

Jimmy McCraekin

Editor,

I truly enjoy your editorial column cause

each time you touch on important topics that

other people don’t talk about.

Your honesty is sharp and you have a lot to

say. Take your time writing them so you

don’t confuse the audience.

Edith Helmsley

Editor,

We wanted to let you know that your work

is appreciated by many of us in Freeport and

the surrounding areas.

I’ve admired your tenacity since the begin-

ning of this newspaper, I think I have every

copy still. God Bless you.

Meredith Moshamn

From the Editor,

I hope you enjoy this read as much as I

do putting it together each edition. We are

going on our 6th yr now!

Thank you for your support and I hope to

keep this around for many more years to

come. Thank you again.

Page 10: May 22, 2014 Edition

My name is Deenie, and I would like to send out a "missing person" alert.

The nice people at Alaqua have been featur-

ing me in all kinds of media. I have been the

"Dog of the Day" and I also have my very

own Sponsor page. Yet, no one has expressed

any interest. Therefore, I am sure that my

"forever" human is simply missing! Along

with this plea to locate my missing human, I

will share my story.

I am one of the last remaining pups from the

August 2013 hoarding rescue. I am about 8

years old. We lived in a very sad situation,

receiving minimal care. When I came to

Alaqua, they provided each of us with excel-

lent veterinary care. I was found to be in good health, but heavy with pup-

pies that were soon to be born. My teeth were in poor shape, due to neglect,

but I am able to eat hard kibble. It was also determined that I had previously

broken my front leg and it had never been properly cared for so it did not

heal correctly. Due to this neglect, I now walk with a bit of a limp, but it's

not too bad and I get about just fine. Alaqua helped me deliver my puppies,

and gave me the best of care. Despite everything I have been through, I am

told that I am one of the sweetest doggies at the refuge.

The volunteers at Alaqua are amazed that I have such a sweet spirit about

me, despite my sad history. They thought I was an excellent mother to my

puppies. Considering all that I have gone through, all I ever ask for is a soft

lap to lie on, and a gentle touch to comfort me. The volunteers at Alaqua

take me on rides in a special stroller. I love to meet and greet all of the pets

and people that I see. I feel like a queen in my "chariot".

Someone that needs a loving companion is out there for me. I play well with

the other pups on the playground. I am what they call a "low maintenance"

girl. I understand that I am not perfect, but I always have a smile on my face,

a wagging tail, and although I may have a limp, there is plenty of "pep in my

step"!

Page 10 The EMERALD STAR NEWS, Inc. Thursday, May 22, 2014

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Florida Department of Health and Orlando Health PROVIDE UPDATE ON MErs-CoV IN FLORIDA

~The investigation is contained and there is no broad risk to the general public~

Tallahassee – The Florida Department of Health announced on May 12 the first Florida case

of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) infection in Orange

County. The patient remains in isolation at Dr. P. Phillips Hospital, is currently fever free, and

continues to improve.

"We want to assure the public that MERS-CoV in Florida is contained and there is no broad

threat to the general public,” said State Surgeon General and Secretary of Health, Dr. John

Armstrong. "We are grateful to the team at Dr. P. Phillips Hospital for their timely diagnosis

and care of the patient. Floridians are reminded to practice simple steps to stay healthy: wash

your hands often, avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth and stay home if you are sick.”

"The highest priority for the Florida Department of Health in Orange County is the health and

safety of residents and visitors in our community,” said Dr. Kevin Sherin, Director of the Flor-

ida Department of Health in Orange County. "The patient is receiving effective and timely care

and testing is ongoing to ensure that no additional individuals have the infection.”

Contact Investigation Continues

As part of standard public health practices, the Florida Department of Health, in coordination

with local and federal partners, continues its surveillance, contact investigation and testing.

While testing is ongoing, the two health care workers who had close contact with the patient

and showed symptoms have tested negative for MERS-CoV.

The Florida Department of Health continues to work closely with Dr. P. Phillips Hospital and

the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to ensure appropriate care of the patient

and to protect the health of all residents and visitors in Florida.

"We are extremely pleased that none of our team members have tested positive, including the

two team members that developed flu-like symptoms over the weekend,” said Antonio Crespo,

MD, Infectious Diseases Specialist and Chief Quality Officer for Dr. P. Phillips Hospital. "We

are working to complete this investigation and we remain cautiously optimistic that test results

from other team members will also be negative.

No Broad Risk of MERS-CoV

There is no broad risk of MERS-CoV infection for the general public and there is no threat to

those traveling to the Orlando area. MERS-CoV is not easily spread. The case in Orange

County is contained.

MERS-CoV is a reminder of the precautions that everyone can take to protect themselves,

their families, and their communities from any communicable diseases:

Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alco-

hol-based hand sanitizer.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Germs spread this way.

Stay at home when you are sick.

The information line for the public at the Florida Department of Health in Orange County is

407-858-1490. Information from the CDC for the public is available by calling 800-232-4636.

SOUTH WALTON JOHN HORTON SENIOR CENTER RECEIVES A FACE LIFT

Recently, Walton County District 5 Commissioner Cindy Meadows organized an effort to give

the John Horton Senior Center in South Walton a face lift. Commissioner Meadows visited the

center with her Aide, Susan MacDonald, and following their visit began the work to contact

local organizations and request their assistance with some major renovations.

As a result of her efforts, County workers repaired and repainted the exterior, cleared the

grounds of debris and provided soil to create a garden.

In addition to that work, the Senior Center has received assistance from other local groups that

have built upon the work of Commissioner Meadows.

The Master Gardeners of Walton County

Provided plants and labor to brighten up the exterior

Donated supplies and helped create an above ground garden

Provided a picnic table to be placed by the garden

Ana Reichert, Commissioner Meadow’s Administrative Assistant

Made curtains with material donated by Caring and Sharing

Donated wicker porch furniture

New Day Church

Painted the inside of the senior center, supplying the paint and labor

Treated the seniors to a cookout at the center

The Walton Area Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Walton Group

Plans to visit the center after all other work is complete and provide finishing touches

Page 11: May 22, 2014 Edition

FOR RENT

Classified Ad’s are only $10

SERVICES

Babysitter available, several

qualified local students in HS. references, CPR certified, after

school and weekends if needed.

3mos. Summer Specials

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Freeport / S. Walton

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All phases of home repair./remodel

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great price. For more information

Call: 850.585.0262

Need a sign?

Any size, style, design Vinyl lettering, car wraps, banners,

Design/layout services available.

Call for FREE estimate. 654-0860

Mention The Emerald Star News

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fences, mobile homes...you name it

850-419-1556

ARE YOU HIRING? FREE AD’s

for listing with us! Call or E-mail

The EMERALD STAR NEWS Inc. Page 11 Thursday, May 22, 2014

Classifieds

Only $10 per issue

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…… P/Tno exp. Necessary

call 585-0262

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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, we will haul off.

Top $ paid. Free removal of junk cars.

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

[email protected]

Explore nature in and around

Walton County Florida with Walton

Outdoors. For more information, go

to: http://www.waltonoutdoors.com

Pinestraw $4 per bale.

Delivery fee depends on mileage.

Call today, 850-333-0877 Dee Watson

Sell your stuff thru this newspaper!

Call 585-0262…….only $10

“Picking on the Porch” Every 2nd Sunday 2-4pm

Freeport City Hall

Help Wanted: Service Plumber

Requires Valid Drivers License;

2 Years Verifiable Service/Repair

Plumbing Experience

Knowledge of South Walton/Santa

Rosa Beach Area

Over-time and On-Call will be re-

quired.

Please Apply at 998 Bay Drive, Santa

Rosa Beach, Apply at 998 Bay Dr. -

Point Washington/Santa Rosa

Beach…...county 283N **stop in at

the office for your application

AJ’s Plumbing 850-231-1473

On Saturday, May 31st, join in the Mothers of the Troop Bass Tournament at Black Creek Lodge in Freeport. Fishing from safe

daylight to final weigh-in at 3 pm. $50 per boat. Big Bass $20 per boat. Boat driver must be at least 18 years old. For more information, call 850-598-4074. Registration will be available on the day of the event.

WALTON COUNTY REOPENS

COUNTY HIGHWAY 30A AT

DRAPER LAKE BETWEEN HWY 83

AND HWY 395

Walton County Public Works Crews have

completed the installation of a temporary

bridge crossing Draper Lake on County High-

way 30A between Highway 83 and Highway

395. The road is now open to traffic.

The County installed the temporary bridge

after having to close that section of road due to

a culvert failure during the storms that hit the

area in late April and early May. The failure

of the culvert caused the road to be unsafe for

vehicular travel.

This temporary bridge will remain in place

until engineering crews can assess the full

damage caused by the failure and determine

the best way for the County to move forward

with a permanent solution.

Chautauqua Winery Summer Craft Festival. Lo-

cated at 364 Hugh Adams Road, Defuniak Springs,

FL (corner of I-10 & 331 exit 85). Held May 31,

2014 from 9-3 p.m. FREE WINE TASTINGS! An

array of vendors will showcase their products. For a

free vendor booth e-mail

[email protected]. Miss Walton Co.,

Kaitlyn Bailey will host a fundraiser for Miss Pea-

nut Festival. Paint Party $45 (includes supplies)

begins 10 a.m. limited seating. For paint party tick-

ets call Katie Beth's Boutique 850-520-4650.

The Freeport Public Library has a new story time every

Wednesday at 10:30 am with Miss

Dollie. Meet her in the children’s

area for a fun story and a craft to

take home! Beginning on June 3rd

kids can come in and pick up a

reading log for the summer read-

ing program. Summer Reading

programs begin on Wednesday,

June 4th at 10:00am in the Freeport

Community Center. On June 4th

the Walton County 4-H Club will

present a program called “Fun

with Food”. Please call the library

at (850) 835-2040 if you plan on

attending so we have enough ma-

terials for everyone. On June 11th

our friends at Chelco are sponsor-

ing Nonie’s Ark! This program

also begins at 10:00am at the Free-

port Community Center. On June

18th the Walton County 4-H Club

will again visit us with a “Mad

Scientist” themed program, there

will be snacks, crafts, and give-

aways. On June 25th at 10:00 kids

will learn about “Sound and Sci-

ence” and get a chance to make

music with the “Makey Makey”.

Curious to know what that is?

Come join us! Programs are appro-

priate for children of all ages. Walton County Tourist Development Council Meeting

NOTICE is hereby given that the Walton County

Tourist Development will hold a regular TDC

meeting on June 3, 2014 at 9:00a.m. at the S.W.

Courthouse Annex Boardroom. You may view

the agenda one week prior to the meeting on the

county website – meeting agendas.

Committee Meetings

Events, Activities – Arts & Culture June 26th –

9:30-11:30a.m. in the TDC conference room

Beach Management – June 2, 2:00 p.m. – 3:30

p.m. at the TDC conference room

Destination Improvement – June 11, 2:00 p.m. –

3:30 p.m. at the TDC conference room

For additional information regarding this meeting contact Christina Tilton at 850-267-1216 [email protected]

Page 12: May 22, 2014 Edition

Page 12 The EMERALD STAR NEWS Inc. Thursday, May 22 ,2014

Ph: 850-835-4153 www.freeportwaterfront.com

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