may 3,2012 edition
TRANSCRIPT
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Volume: 4 Issue: 9 May 3, 2012 bi-weekly Edition
The BEST LIL NEWSPAPER inWalton county - from Freeport, Florida
Made possible by your localadvertising businesses in this edition.
Inside this WEEK:
Local Officials SalariesHow much does your local elected official
make? Some say service as a public official
should be all voluntary with no..Page 3
WCTA Polls Members
About Tax or Toll Walton CountyTaxpayers Association (WCTA) wanted toknow what current public opinion of its mem-
bers was on the proposed Hwy...Page 6
331Toll Bridge Debate
For Whom The Bridge Tolls
The Florida Department of Transportation,(FDOT), has offered to build another two lane
bridge by the current Clyde B. Wells bridge ifWalton County contributes $75 million to thecost of the bridge. In addition, the FDOT willcomplete four lanes of 331 between 98 and
I-10 by 2017. The need...Page 10
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Hello once again. A few hot-topics are on the table as of lateand the biggest one involves our future bridge of Hwy. 331and whether it should have a toll on it or not. I have received
numerous emotion filled letters about the stress that raising the costs towork in south Walton from families living north of the bay. Many of those letters sent in
were from long time residents living in and around Freeport. I suppose living by the wa-ter has its price but a change is coming for Hwy. 331 regardless.
I figured I might as well give you my opinion for I too, cross the bridge 2-3x a day andcould not imagine any discounted rate that would allow me to maintain my current flowwithout it hurting. Gas is expensive enough. Add $20-$30 a week to that? Even the sun
pass type of thing would costs more than most could afford now. There are so many as-pects mulled over at these meetings but you do realize that those meetings will not affectthe vote. Only you can affect the vote, by voting. From most polls it appears that bothnorth and south Walton residents agree upon the several factors of importance. Now totry and make everyone happy? Good luck.
If you have read between the lines is that if you dont vote yes to the 1/2% tax, the
county commissioners will toll, period. No voting will be made available about it if theoriginal vote to tax is denied. I hope each of you reading this thinks how more cost effec-tive a tax would be compared to a toll. Mainly from the stand point of cash out of pocket.I know a big concern from most is the amount of additional time it will take when driv-ing to pay a toll besides the expenses of maintaining one. For how many years? How dowe know if and when it will go away? From what I have seen throughout the country, alot of toll roads remained tolled for the undeniable revenue benefits it opens up. Therewill always be new things to use the money on. New and old ones.
You need to make yourself be heard this time around, even though we are Floridians,the re-count state, there will only be one ballot to answer yes or no.I do want to change the subject for a bit. This newspaper and its relative importance it
gives. However, I can use help. Do you know of anyone who likes to interview? Gather
stories? How about a columnist of a particular topic? Maybe home and gardening, sew-ing or even another gossip columnist? As you see a columnist can come from anywhere.I have had several good ones over the years and I am open to all ideas and would love tohear input from you!! I offer opportunities most wont.
What several folks have said is you miss the fun page which explained is quite simple.The advertisers pay for the printing of this paper. If there is room where I can fit a puzzleor a joke or two I will. (More advertisers = more pages). Would you like to help? Justgive me a call or shoot me an E-mail anytime, I would love to hear from you again.
This gives a chance also to students to learn part of the industry of the news. I havetaught a few kids about things they never thought of involving this newspaper and Iwould like to help them all. To learn is everything. As many of us know.you can learn
something new everyday. No one is perfect, just look on TV. You learn more angles ofthe standard when being small and local yet it still has its challenges to offer. Ideas areplentiful when you ask of them to the public. People who have yet to know of you andyour business are waiting to shake your hand on the streets.
With this newspaper I can attack the big topics or play with a few whimsical stories.That in itself makes each issue printed different from those other stands on the streets.Jumping first to grab the headline has taken its toll on me when we were once into that
realm. Now its more relaxed and I hope you can tell by the way you feel that the heart isstill here, just less stressful. If any of this sounds interesting to you just let me know.
Dent & Bent Groceries
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EditorialViews expressed in The EMERALD STAR NEWS do not necessarily reflect those of the
publisher. The staff ofThe EMERALD STAR NEWSpride ourselves in our efforts to ensureaccuracy 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. 3000 copies printed bi-weekly.
Publisher/Editor
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Web DesignerZamir Wolfe / Lee CoxContributing Editor -Dr. Summers
Guest columnistErica Beck
Guest ColumnistColin Richards
Page 2 The EMERALD STAR NEWS Inc. Thursday, May 3, 2012
Look us up online: Emeraldstarnews.comMail invoices and other information to:
P.O. Box 1133Freeport, Florida 32439
Quote ofthe week :
Yes its true. The rising demand for this newspaper our delivering needs we
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We need advertising help too, just give me a call today!
The Emerald Star News is published bi-weekly
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Before you
criticize
someone,
you should
walk a mile
in their
shoes.
That way,
when you
criticize
them,
you're a
mile away
and you
have their
shoes.
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Page 3The EMERALD STAR NEWS Inc.Thursday, May 3, 2012
Homeless Vet Housing Vouchers
The Walton County housing Agency has received funding under the HUD-VASH program that will allow the agency to house 10 homeless veterans during
the next few months. The Veterans must meet the following requirements.
Must be a veteran registered with a VA clinic or be eligible for registration at
the clinic based on DD214, honorable or general discharge and have served 24consecutive months after 1980 or 30 days prior to 1980.
- Cannot be a registered sex offender
- Cannot have active warrants
- Must be willing to participate in case management services by HUD-VASH
social worker
- Housing available for veteran and dependants
- Veteran must be able o pay small portion of the rent and application
fees, as well as portion of utilities.
- Veteran must meet income guidelines set for by HUD
Walton County Housing Director Tom Baker says he is a veteran and wants topersonally assist the homeless vets through this process.
Baker also asks that anyone with available 1 or 2 bedroom rental housing to
contact his office.
Call Mary Randolph at 892-8185.
WC BCC Meeting
As reported by WZEP AM1460
The Walton Commissioners met lastTuesday morning and took up the pro-
posed budget from the TDC Council.
Answering questions from the publicand commissioners, TDC DirectorDawn Moliterno said the TDC Coun-cil proposes a budget, the commission-ers agree to have it submitted with theother county budgets for scrubs andthen the commissioners will vote on itduring the regular budget process. Shesaid this is a two step process due tothe different funding source. She alsosaid the TDC does not work with resi-
dent issues due to the state law defin-ing them as promoting tourism.
Under Public Works, they scheduleda workshop for the citizens to meetwith public works to discuss the recy-cling program. Commissioner KennethPridgen noted they have already madechanges and the County is sorting met-
als where vendors used to do the work.
Commissioners approved the dirt topave list. It is smaller due to the reduc-tion in gas tax coming in. They alsoapproved two lists of possible roadsrepair through grants. And the Dar-lington School is being worked on andCommissioners approved renovation
and asbestos abatement.
Approval was given to use theMossy Head School package plant andtie into the school. The next step is towork with Dixie RV so there isenough flow to operate one or theother package plants. Dixie RV also
plans to open the motel. Eventuallythe County will build a large sewer
plant in the industrial park.
County Attorney Toni Craig pre-sented several case issues and askedthe commissioners to be allowed tofile, defend, and settle legal action.Craig said these will likely go abovethe $25,000 limit they previously ap-
proved. She said the process would tryto resolve the issue then go to court if
necessary. The actions were: Howellfor contract value reimbursement andCode Enforcement action, againstSandestin Owners Association andagainst the Department of JuvenileJustice for juvenile detention costs.Two items were tabled and the thirdapproved. Commissioners also ap-
proved obtaining a legal intern for thesummer and agreed to join in ongoingmulti-county litigation concerning
Medicaid back-billing.
Walton will also help apply for awildflower grant.
Walton County Taxpayers
AssociationAs reported by WZEP AM1460
Here is a story based on a release from a lo-cal tax watchdog group. In a statement fromthe Walton County Taxpayers Association,they say Walton County is known for its fabu-lous white beaches, its beautiful architecture, acommitment to the arts and a commitment tothe environment and to conservation. Theyalso say the leadership of the Tourist Develop-ment Council, those with the responsibility tomarket our community to the outside world,has targeted a new visitor market-ecotourism.According to the WCTA, the TDC is trying toattract not just beach visitors, but also new
kinds of visitors; those committed to conserva-tion and the environment and who will visit
our wonderful county year round.
The WCTA says it is a fact, the TDC has hadthe foresight to invest in a partnership($119,500 annually) with the EO Wilson Bio-
philia Center. This has brought such notaries asthe head of the Smithsonian and the actor/environmentalist, Harrison Ford, who has even
done a small introductory video for the center.
The WCTA says the TDC is recommending
taking control of 11.9 acres of conservationland in Point Washington State Park for a newvisitors center and Nature/Discovery Center.They note the TDC wants to build on conser-vation land, disrupting the ecosystem and
breaking up State sanctioned conservation
land.
The WCTA asks if this a commitment toecotourism or an act of eco-terrorism? Is this aresponsible use of our bed tax dollars or a
wasteful exercise in empire-building?
They note a public hearing held recently hadwhat they call an onslaught of citizens attend-ing and says the overwhelming majority voice
of the people emphatically said No. They
say this means people said No on building in
Point Washington State Forest, No on spend-ing this kind of money on this project, No
on pushing through divisive agendas, and No
on violating the publics trust.
The Walton County Taxpayers Associationsays they agree and encourages all the electedrepresentatives to listen to the voice of the peo-
ple and join WCTA in saying NO. They sayWalton can and must do better than this.
WCTA is a non-partisan organization withmembers from both North and South WaltonCounty, representing the entire county. WCTA
believes that it is vitally important to stay in-volved in how Walton County spends taxpayermoney, especially as the County and tax basegrow. WCTAs focus is on limiting the role of
government and how much money is necessary
to provide
basic public services to all taxpayers in WaltonCounty. WCTA believes that a unified group
of individuals can make a difference.
Local Officials Salaries As reported by WZEP AM1460
How much does your local elected official make? Some say service as a publicofficial should be all voluntary with no salary. Noting the cost to run, the liabilityand other costs, some say an elected official should be paid a fair wage for the type
of administration they do.
Elected positions can be considered a part time job or a full time job. Even whenthey are not in meetings, elected officials have to follow certain rules and give up
an amount of freedom as they are serving the public.
Salaries for Constitutional Officers, County Commissioners and School Boardmembers are set by the state. State statutes also says the district school board shallhold not less than one regular meeting each month for the transaction of businessaccording to a schedule arranged by the district school board and shall convene inspecial sessions when called by the district school superintendent or by the districtschool superintendent on request of the chair of the district school board, or on
request of a majority of the members of the district school board.
The regular meetings are not the only times officials get together. Meetings canalso include a special meeting, workshop or closed executive session. These can beheld before, after or during a regular meeting or anytime publicly announced. Offi-cials might also gather at special events such as dedications and openings, commu-
nity events and attend out of area events.
With the recent change from two general meetings a month to one for the WaltonCounty School Board, there has been questions about being paid for attending asingle meeting a month. WZEP First News looked into what can be behind the
duties of a public official and what the compensation is.
For Paxton, the council met two times for the month April, one a regular meeting
and one a special meeting. The Paxton City Council regularly meets every 3rdTuesday of each month at the Town Hall at 6:00 PM. Any emergency or specialcall meeting is with 48 hour posted notice to the public. During their BudgetWorkshops they will advertise (2) public workshops dates one in August, one inSeptember. The final budget is approved at the regular council meeting in Septem-
ber and all over expenditures for each department and any transfers in/transfersout. For Paxton, there are no pay/benefits for the Mayor or Council as set forth bythe Municipal Charter and also no restrictions in regards the terms of office that
can be held.
In Freeport, the Council holds two meetings a month. They can also have theworkshops, special meetings, budget hearings and executive sessions. The mayor
is paid $17,300 annually and the Council members are paid $12,360. The do par-ticipate in the Florida Retirement System and are eligible for health insurance cov-
erage.
In DeFuniak Springs, the Council makes $6,000 a year and the Mayor gets $9,000.
They are eligible for benefits. So far this year they have met 15 times.
Cont on next pg.
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Thursday, May 3, 2012The EMERALD STAR NEWS Inc.
Call for AJs -tip of the week
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Freeport Mayors Post
Freeport MayorMickey Marse
To post a comment orquestion for the Mayor,
E-mail : Frank@
Emeraldstarnews.com
We reserve the right to refuse publications of any
comments or questions for the Mayor. Thank You.
The
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IT IS TIME ONCE AGAIN FOR....
The Summer West Indies Markets -Joinus all summer-long, the second weekendof each month, from May-July, for thisexciting event that has become a hub forthousand of artists, from all over te
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Texting or even the thought of texting ona cell phone while driving may be dis-tracting enough to cause a car crash for
teens.
Two new studies suggest that teen driv-ers who text with their cell phone in any
position or even think about texting aremore likely to be involved in an acci-
dent. Several studies have shown thattexting or using a cell phone while driv-ing raises the risk of motor vehicle acci-dents, prompting bans on texting while
driving in many states.
But some have suggested that such bansmay increase these dangers by causingdrivers who text to conceal their phonesfrom view. Using a driving simulator, 22teen drivers drove under three differentconditions: without a cell phone, texting
with a cell phone hidden from view, andtexting with a cell phone in their pre-
ferred position.
The results showed that teens who weretexting while driving were up to eighttimes more likely to drift between lanes.They were also twice as likely to be in-volved in a near crash with other carsand pedestrians, regardless of whether
the phone was concealed.
Overall, teens who were texting while
driving made up to four times more driv-ing mistakes and were often unaware ofthese potentially dangerous mishaps. Thesecond study looked at whether thethought or anticipation of cell phone useaffected the risk of car crashes among
young drivers.
Researchers surveyed a group of 384
undergraduate students at the Universityof Washington about their cell phone useand history of car crashes. Frequent an-
ticipation of calls or messagesCell phone use interferes with normal
activities and impacts friends and family
A strong emotional reaction to the cell
phone
Recognizing "problem cell phone use"
The results showed that each 1-pointincrease on the CPOS scale was associ-ated with a 1% increase in the number of
previous car crashes among the young
drivers.
The Mayor did not have a post thisweek. Check back next issue for updates.
Salaries cont from pg. 3
Jumping over to Ponce de Leon, theTown Council met a total of 5 timeslast quarter. Three were regular sched-uled, two were special meetings. TheMayor is paid $150 per month, theChairman $135 per month and theremaining Council are paid $125 per
month or $1500 a year.
So far this year the Walton Commis-sioners have met in eight regular meet-ings, six special meetings and threeexecutive sessions. Walton Adminis-trative Assistant Dede Hinote says theCommissioners are paid $38,077 ayear. The Chairman receives an extra$1,500 per year. They are also paidmileage based on an average of 1,852miles multiplied by the GSA rate.They receive benefits of social secu-rity, Medicare, elected officials Flor-ida retirement, life insurance, healthinsurance, long term disability and
workers compensation just like anyother county employee.
http://children.webmd.com/tc/growth-and-development-ages-15-to-18-years-promoting-healthy-growth-and-developmenthttp://children.webmd.com/tc/growth-and-development-ages-15-to-18-years-promoting-healthy-growth-and-development -
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Page 5
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Freeport Elementary School
4-H Tropicana Public Speaking Contest
4th Grade Winners
- L to R- Kobe Phillips- 1st place winner
Riley Herrington- 2nd place winner
Amy Erickson- 3rd place winner
Gaetz On Redistricting
As reported by WZEP AM1460
State Senator Don Gaetz released a state-ments saying the Florida Supreme Courtapproved the amended Senate redistricting
plan as submitted by the Legislature.
While they remain convinced that theiroriginal plan complied with both federaland state laws, they are grateful for theCourts clear direction which guided theLegislature in making changes to eightdistricts, the Lakeland area and the num-
bering of districts.
The ruling by the Supreme Court affirmsthat the Senate Reapportionment Commit-tee and the House Redistricting Committeewere faithful to their mission. Gaetz saysthat never during the past year and a halfwas there a moment when old House-Senate rivalries that accompanied past re-districting battles interfered with bi-
cameral cooperation and good faith.
As Chairman of the Senate Committee,Gaetz says he is grateful to every memberof the reapportionment panel, Democratand Republican. Disagreements on sub-stance were expected and were civil andconstructive. He says more than 6,000Floridians participated directly in meet-ings, hearings, communications, submitted
plans and testimony that led to the result
announced by the Supreme Court.
He says that if past is prologue, political
interests whose partisan intents werentachieved in the 2012 redistricting plan maycarry out prolonged litigation to try to winin the courts what they could not win in the
ballot box. That is their right.
Contrary to the fears or perhaps the hopesof the cynics and the critics, Floridas citi-zens will now go forward to choose fromamong their neighbors who will representthem in the Senate and House of Represen-tatives. Those elections will be held ontime. Absentee and overseas ballots will besent well in advance. Early voting will
occur as scheduled.
Freeport MeetingAs reported by WZEP AM1460
City Planner Latilda Henninger said theyhave held three public meetings for the Wa-terfronts Florida program. She told theCouncil the have been 15 to 20 showing upand that is a pretty good response for thetype of meetings. There will be one moremeeting next week then the recommenda-tions will be made to the Council. This in-volves a grant process to upgrade the water
fronts in the city.C.W. Roberts is looking to expand their
location in Freeport. The roadway construc-tion company is the largest employer in the
city.
State law now says that anyone in or ef-fected by the test patterns of Eglin has toadopt regulations as far as sound, lights andother aspects. This would be part of the land
use. Henninger said they are working hard to
modify what was suggested into something
that would work with Freeports growthplans.
Fire Chief Ben Greenslait asked aboutrates and opening dates for the FreeportPool. He also asked to hire additional life-guards to have enough to rotate the schedule.The Fire Department is tasked with manag-ing the pool and will help train lifeguards.They used 11 last year and the Chief askedto hire six more this year. He told Councilsome only work a few days a month. It takes
three to rotate through a normal heavy useday. The Council agreed to open the pool onMemorial Day, agreed to keep the pay at $9an hour and agreed to advertise for more
lifeguards.
Mayor Mickey Marse talked about wells.He said an old well on J.W. Hollington is agood well and they want to keep it as a
backup. The well needs a new shed. Marsesaid the valves between Freeport and Port-land can be opened so the water can flow
back and forth. The new well off Wagon
Wheel is advancing.
City Clerk Robin Haynes said the Cityscurrent cell phone provider is switching tonew towers. She told the Council there will
be less towers and they will have to switchto new phones. She started seeking proposalsfrom other companies and said SouthernLinc and Verizon both have governmentcontracts. The two would port the currentnumbers, provide phones and take care of
any switchovers. Council took no action.
A joke:
A patient goes to the doctor's office where, much tohis surprise the doctor asks him, "Would you please
help me with a problem I'm having?"
Sure, doctor, what can I do for you, says the patient.
"Would you scream in the most earsplitting, piercingscreams you can manage? Try to make it sound as i f
you're in terrible pain." The doctor says.
"But why, doctor, you've always been gentle with meand your treatments have never caused me any pain?"
Asks the patient.
"Yes," Says the doctor in a matter-of-fact tone, "but Ihave a 4 o'clock tee time at the golf course I don'twant to miss, and my waiting room is still full of pa-
tients."
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Thursday, May 3, 2012The EMERALD STAR NEWS Inc.Page 6
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Obituary for
George Wayne Fortner
Mr. George Wayne Fortner,age 66, of Freeport passedaway Monday, April 23,2012. He was born May 1,
1945 in Mobile, Alabama toGeorge and Martha GuledgeFortner.Mr. Fortner was a resident ofFreeport. He was Baptist byfaith. He was a veteran of theUnited States Air Force. Hegraduated from TuskegeeHigh School in 1963; he alsograduated from Auburn Uni-versity receiving his Bache-lors Degree in Business Ad-
ministration. He worked inretail most of his life. Uponretiring to Freeport he beganworking as a VeterinarianTechnician at the FreeportPet Clinic.Mr. Fortner is preceded indeath by his parents.Mr. Fortner is survived by hisloving wife of 24 years Mar-tha Weaver Fortner of Free-
port, Florida; one brotherJack Bryan and wife Gwen ofMobile, Alabama; one sisterGail Reynolds and husbandEarl of Dadeville, Alabama;five nieces and nephewsDonna, Tina, Sandy, Ben andLaura and sister-in-law MarieWeaver Myles.Memorial service will be heldat a later date.In lieu of flowers make dona-tions to your favorite charity.You may go online to viewobituaries, offer condolencesand sign guest book atwww.clary-glenn.com.Clary-Glenn Freeport ChapelFuneral Home is entrustedwith the arrangements.
JULES
By M. Vreeland
Jewels come in many shapes, sizes and
varieties, but they all share at least onething in common. No matter the form,each is precious in its own unique way.Our Jules here at Alaqua Animal Refugeis no exception. Though she may spell
her name
differently than the jewels we wear, she
is every bit as precious and unique.
A Dachshund/Sheltie mix with a velvetsoft coat, Jules is beautiful, adorable andfull of fun. Ask any of her canine com-panions and theyll tell you that Julesgets so excited when she has her turn inthe play area with the other dogs hersize, that her whole body shakes in de-light. Theres no such thing as a gloomyday with this playful pup around. Ifyoud like to meet her, and its hard to
imagine anyone who wouldnt, please
stop by Alaqua Animal Refuge. Wereopen to the public every Tuesdaythrough Sunday from 12:00 noon until5:00 P.M. Jules will be watching for
you, and when you meet her were sureit will be love at first sight.
"Northwest Florida's Premier Animal
Sanctuary and Adoption Center"
Alaqua Animal Refuge is a non-profit,no-kill shelter, located at 914 WhitfieldRoad, Freeport. We welcome you tovisit all the adoptable animals at our
beautiful ten acre sanctuary any Tues-
day through Sunday from 12:00 P.M. to5:00 P.M. For more information youcan call us at 850-880-6399 or check
out our website at www.aarflorida.com.
WCTA Polls Members
About Tax or Toll
Walton County Taxpayers Association(WCTA) wanted to know what current public
opinion of its members was on the proposedHwy 331 funding options:
raising a cent sales tax or implementing a toll.A survey was sent to the membership in Marchand 795 members in the non-partisan group re-
sponded:
31% from North Walton and 69% from SouthWalton. The response was: NO on the sales taxand NO on a bridge toll. The survey revealedthat North and South Walton County members
are united on the issues.
The sales tax question posed in the survey was:*Should WCTA support the proposed centsales tax increase for Walton*
*Countys share of the cost of the Hwy 331 four
- **lane** **Bridge** and Roadway*
*from Interstate 10 to Hwy 98? The referendum
to approve the tax is May**8th.*
WCTA members, 75%, voted overwhelminglyagainst the tax: 87% of North Walton respon-dents and 71% of South Walton respondents
voted against the tax.
The question concerning a southbound toll was:*In the event that the referendum fails, and the**Walton** **County**Commissioners con-
sider placing a toll on the southbound lane
of a new Hwy 331 bridge, should the WCTA
support the imposition of that toll?*
Once again 67% members of WCTA voted NO:The North Walton voters were 77% against,while South Walton members voted 67%
against.
WCTA says they will not support the increased
sales tax or the toll for the Hwy 331 bridge pro-ject. They feel that in the fiscal situation thatfaces the county, Walton should not take on any
new debt.
Dear Aunt Ruby,
A few months ago I got a memorial tattoodone for my beloved grandma. Its on my
arm and says in loving memory at the top.
Grandmas portrait is underneath, and abeautiful poem my grandpa wrote for her isunder the portrait. The tattoo artist did a phe-nomenal job! It looks just like her and I was
thrilled with the results.
The problem is, I posted a picture on Face-book of the tattoo, and out of the blue a dis-tant cousin sent me a message telling me thatthe tattoo was selfish and attention-seeking
behavior! He said he was hurt in more ways
than one because of it.
I dont understand. I love this tattoo. Iwanted to honor the woman who meant somuch to me. Did I honor her the wrong waylike he says? Was I selfish? Im so hurt, I
guess Im just looking for some input intothis. My friends and family say hes jealousand not to give it another thought, but Im
obsessing. Please help.
Love for my Grandma
Dear Love,
Please accept my sympathy for your obvi-
ously heartfelt loss. Your family and friendsare correct that your cousins comments areout of line. You are not responsible for yourcousins feelings, so stop obsessing. What-
ever has hurt him in more ways than one isnot your tattoo or anything you posted on
Facebook.
You say he is distant. Keep it that way andconcentrate on something positive like thefact that you have honored your grand-mothers memory. Then go on and build a
happy and constructive life. Im sure that is
what she would want you to do.
Ruby
Dear Aunt Ruby,
I have a friend who struggles with his sonhounding after young girls in his school. Imean this age of time is bad but when its notyour kid what can you do? Being that he hasconfided in me I know whats the truth andfrom they way the town has it painted it is
much more worse.
I want to address this lil *@#% but I knowthat will only get me into a lot of crap. I justwant this kid to understand that in thesesmall towns like here rumors can affect ones
life, for a longer time than most would think.
I know for my own sister has this craptalked about her from people know one ever
knew who she was. That is what I meant.
After many years of crying and hearing a lotof bad lies my sister not only moved but shealso committed suicide shortly after. She saidshe always felt someone was talking behindher back everywhere she went from all those
years stemming from school bullying.
Please pass this on so that the people of
these small towns mind their Ps and Qs.
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Happenings in DeFuniak Springs
Thursday, May 3, 2012 The EMERALD STAR NEWS Inc. Page 7
Walton TDC Updates
At the recent Walton Commissioner meeting, TDCDirector Dawn Moliterno asked to move the moneyaround to pay for painting the Sandestin Water Towerand put on a Visit South Walton welcome identifier.This is a change for the tower and an additional effortto help get the new branding out there. The TDC willadd a 9th Lifeguard stand in Miramar Beach. TheMiramar Beach restroom upgrade will take place after
the main tourist season.
The 2012-13 Strategic Plan and Media Plan was pre-
sented. Moliterno said the TDC Council goes througha full day reviewing the plans and then approved
them. She explained this helps with budgeting.
A resident questioned the inclusion of the plannedDiscovery Center and had a question about residentissues. Moliterno said the Discovery Center was not
built into the budget and they are not making the as-sumption the new center will be built. As far as theTDC and resident issues, she talked about the TDC
being geared towards the visitors, not residents as per
the state laws.
Moliterno also explained the TDC Council submits abudget to the commissioners for approval to submit to
the county budget scrub process.
Most departments in the county simply submit abudget request to the business office and it goesthrough a scrub process. Staff then presents the total
budget to the commissioners during workshops. Addi-tional workshops and hearings give the commissioners
time to finalize the budget.
The budgets have to be submitted by May 7th forreview and then the commissioners vote on them
later in the summer.
The TDC budget is primarily from bed tax collec-tions, as other county departments get their budgetdollars from the property tax. Since their revenuestream is from a different source than other countydepartments, they have the additional step of havingthe TDC Council approve it before sending it to the
county business office.
The Discover Center is the building proposed for theintersection of Highway 98 and U.S. 331. It wouldrequire a land swap with the Florida Forestry Service.At a recent meeting, a number of residents expressed
concern with taking from the forest and suggestedfinding an alternative site. The intersection is said to
be the best location for those coming to the destina-tion. The current location is not meeting the need andcommissioners have been talking about a relocation
since the widening of
331 south of the bridge was finalized.
The Discovery Center would have the normal desti-nation information and include hands on and techno-logical displays that would promote the forest andsouthern Walton County. Moliterno explained there is
a need for a Discovery Center, a more interactive cen-ter than the Visitor Center with just maps and bro-
chures.
To help with confusion, the commissioners agreed tocall the future Discovery Center, wherever it may be
located, an Interactive Center.
DFS Energy and
Conservation ExpoAs reported by WZEP AM1460
The City of DeFuniak Springs will behosting the first annual Energy and Con-servation Discovery Expo on Saturday,May 5, 2012. Exhibits will be at theCaboose on Circle Drive and continueto the Library. The Expo will begin at8:00am and conclude at 1:00pm. This
Expo is FREE and is for all ages.
Organizers say the Expo will be anexcellent opportunity to explore anddiscover the technologies and initiativesthat can help us individually and as acommunity save money and reducewaste. They say there will be manyhands-on activities and live demonstra-tions with field experts available to ex-
plain and answer any questions.
Jason ODaniels says you will be ableto observe biodiesel being produced and
being used in equipment. There will bea natural gas vehicle, and a vehicle thatis electric and gas powered. You will beable to learn about geothermal heatingand cooling, solar technologies, windturbines, recycling and many more inno-vative technologies. The Expo will alsoinclude composting, garden in a bucketand examining live organisms under amicroscope. ODaniels says a lot of theExpo will cover items relating to livinga more self sufficient lifestyle, such as
home canning and gardening.Cindy Permenter says residents might
also want to take advantage of an oppor-tunity to get rid of old documents. Shred-It will be available for any individual(no businesses) to bring up to five (5)
banker boxes of personal documents(i.e., checks, bank statements, creditcards). This is a fifty ($50) dollar value
that will be provided at no cost.
There will be an area available to drop
-off any old/used/outdated/broken com-puters, cell phones, monitors that you
wish to recycle.
If you have any questions about theExpo, please feel free to call JasonODaniels or Cindy Permenter at DeFu-
niak Springs City Hall (850)892-8500.
May 5th is the day to come to historicDeFuniak Springs and EXPLORE,LEARN, AND RECYCLE at the En-
ergy Conservation Discovery Expo.
DFS Council As reported by WZEP AM1460
Jayne Swift with CH2MHILL/OMI said the city has new chlorine tankcovers to prevent excess evaporation. Her team designed the covers and
purchased parts locally to help save materials. She also said they continueto remove 12 feet of grease from the system. The crews have to manuallylift the grease out. Swift says it comes from every lift station, includinghomes. She said people need to know where to put grease to help saveequipment. The lift station at Oakdale Apartments was discussed and de-sign issues are being worked out. The team also sponsored the recent FirstFriday Breakfast and talked about the Floridian Aquifer. They also do-
nated funds for the Snowbird Day to help pay for the trolley.
The Council approved closing Circle Drive for a Middle School fund-raiser on May 12th for the Science Club. They also approved, a fee waiverfor Destiny Worship Center for the back to school give-a-way registrationin June, a closure for CHELCO and for LaRumba to have amplified out-side musica on Cinco de Mayo. The Council also made several appoint-
ments.
Remember Jonathan Dunn, the man from Britton who took over AeroFXat the DeFuniak Springs Airport and then had the contract bought out a f-ter a dispute. The city agreed to pay him $685,000 after the litigation.
Now he asked the Council to sign a document that gives him a tax advan-tage, does not cost the city and he will give the city $5000 for ChristmasReflections. After a brief discussion, Mac Work made the motion to deny
the request, seconded by Ron Kelley. The vote passed three to one withKermit Wright the nay vote, saying the money was paid in the past and if
they can get $5000 for the city then they should.
Councilmember Mac Work said he does not like it when they suspendemployees with pay, allowing them to go home and sit on the couch andget paid. He asked to have an option to allow the city manager to suspendwithout pay. The proposed ordinance will be brought back. The Councilhired two new police officers to replace to vacated spots. They also ap-
proved splitting the HR and Special Project Manager job between twoexisting employees for a savings. A training company will be used to as-
sist in any education the two employees and other employees may need.
Look south of the interstate and you might see the new elevated watertower. City Manager Sara Bowers said she would like to put Historic
DeFuniak Springs on the tower.
As the DeFuniak Springs City Council meeting started, resident Janie
Griffith said she has received correspondence that the demolition of the
old Health Department Building was wasting taxpayer dollars after fix-
tures
and recyclables were taken. She told the Council she felt they received a
good contract price and the salvage of any materials were part of the
agreement. It was also pointed out the city had already removed any us-
able fixtures. The person said $60,000 dollars of copper was removed.Council member Mac Work said that would be 10 tons and there is notthat much in the building. Assistant City Manager Bill Holloway said asthe contractor removed the carpet, it tore up the asbestos tile. He asked to
pay to have all the tiles removed. Staff and a contractor will determine thebuildings usability after the demolition of the interior is done. A specialmeeting will be held if needed so the current demolition contractor cancontinue the work at a discounted price if approved. Council member RonKelly said they will be hard pressed to build a new building at the same
price of remodeling the building with its size.
A resident says he received a high water bill due to a leak when he wasnot home and asked the Council for help. It was pointed out the city does
give a one time adjustment every five years and he had already receivedone in 2009. The bill was $1650 when the usual bill is $16. He said he didnot receive a courtesy notice that there was a leak. Staff agreed they didnot send a courtesy notification. Council agreed that since a leak letterwas not sent, they will strike down the bill to the normal bill and look at
their internal process for leak detection.
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Page 8 The EMERALD STAR NEWS, Inc. Thursday, May 3, 2012
Obituary for Florence Marie Salvan.
Florence Marie Poleresky Polister Salvan wasborn Sept 14, 1912 and passed away on April 11,2012. Florence was an exceptional woman, with agreat thirst for knowledge, always striving in herlife to be an educator, a wife and 'bon vivant'.
Florence was of Hungarian descent and was veryproud of her heritage. She was born in Scranton,Pennsylvania and moved with her family to Detroit,Michigan at an early age. Her life as a college stu-dent began after high school graduation at WayneState University, which put her in the path of herfuture husband and the love of her life, Dr. JacquesSalvan.
During World War II, she worked for HenryFord at the Willow Run Bomber Plant in PublicRelations. Continuing in public relations sheworked for the Census Bureau in Washington, D.C.
and then traveled to Europe after World War II tohelp in Americas effort in the reconstruction of
post war Germany.Upon her return from Germany, she completed
her Bachelor of Science in Education at WayneState, while working in the Foreign Language De-
partment office. With her degree, Florence taughtart, including ceramics, in an inner city Detroit highschool for over 8 years.
After she and Jacques wed in 1955, they bothcontinued to teach until Professor Salvan retired.
For the next 5 years, Dr. Salvan taught graduateFrench Philosophy at Arizona University in Tucsonwhere Florence fell in love with the mountains anddeserts of Arizona. In 1960 they acquired a propertyin Santa Rosa Beach and split their time betweenProvincetown, Massachusetts, Tucson, Arizona andthe beautiful shores of the Gulf of Mexico.
Florence enjoyed long walks on the beach withJacques, cooking, ceramics, needlepoint, travel andreading. She was a devout catholic and was one ofthe early parishioners at Resurrection CatholicChurch in Miramar Beach. For many years, she
was one of the Sunday readers for which she wasvery proud.. The Catholic Church provided solaceand communion to Florence every Sunday until her
passing.Florence was known to those close to her as
"Dolly". She was very exuberant and filled with alove for life. Her loving caretakers: Margie, Angelaand Cindy, along with Gentiva and Covenant Hos-pice were there at Florences home to give her com-fort and dignity in her final time here on earth.
Florence was preceded in death by her husband,
Jacques Salvan. She had lost her sisters Margaret,Olga and Georgianna years ago and now goes tojoin them in eternal peace. She is survived by hertwo nieces Laurie Gomon Ring of Daytona Beach,FL, Mary Jo Browning of Kerrville, Texas and hernephew, Dr. Martin Gomon, who resides in Mel-
bourne, Australia. Grand nephews Sean Browning,Dr. Travis Browning and deceased niece AmberBrowning were also in her family lineage and willmiss her greatly. A memorial service will be heldon Thursday, May 24, 2012 at the ResurrectionChurch in Miramar Beach at 11 am.
You may go online to view obituaries, offer condo-lences and sign guest book at www.clary-
glenn.com.Clary-Glenn Freeport Chapel Funeral Home is en-trusted with the arrangements.
May blood drives in WaltonCounty and Destin Area
Tuesday 8th
Santa Rosa Pharmacy19Town Center Loop, Santa Rosa Beach12
pm to 3 pmSaturday 12thRotolos Restaurant 985Highway 98, Destin4 pm to 7 pmFree
personal one topping pizza, when you donatebloodTuesday 15thDestin Healthcare and RehabCenter195 Mattie Kelley Blvd.12 pm to3 pmTuesday 15thWalton Career DevelopmentCenterDeFuniak Springs8 am to 2 pmFree Beach Towel for all donorsWednesday 16thSacred Heart HospitalEmerald Coast9 am to 4 pm
Friday 18thWal-MartDeFuniak Springs
12 pm to 6 pmFree gift card for all donors
FES Dear Parents/Guardians,Please note that you and your child are in-vited to attend 5th grade orientation at Free-
port Middle School May 10th at 5:30 instead
of May 7th at 9:00 a.m.
Unpaid Traffic Tickets May Get
Violators' Utilities Turned Off In
New MexicoResidents of one New Mexico city are in danger ofhaving their utilities shut off if they don'tpay tick-
ets for running red lights.
The city of Las Cruces is considering cutting offthe water and sewer utilities of its customers withoutstanding tickets in the wake of a $2-million
deficit in fine revenue, according to ABC News.
When city officials began exploring options tomake up for the loss, they found a section in thecity municipal code that reads, "The city may de-cline, fail or cease to furnish utility service to any
person who may be in debt to the city for any rea-son, except ad valorem taxes and special assess-
ments," the station reported.
A spokesman in the city's public information officedeclined to comment to The Huffington Post. Butcity officials reportedly sent out warning letters toresidents recently threatening that they might get
cut of from the water and sewer lines.
"You are hereby advised that, unless the [red lightcamera] fines are paid or other satisfactory pay-ment arrangements are made with the City on or
before (date) the City will terminate all currentCity-provided utility service to the residence," an
example letter reads.
The option is being explored because the city can'ttake its drivers to court over violations -- the onlyenforcement they seem to have is the utility plan,
according to TheNewspaper.com.
Naturally, drivers are outraged."There are someangry customers that come in and say it isnt
proper the city is going this route," City communi-
cations director Udell Vigil told ABC.
The $100 fines are diviid up between the city, thestate and the camera company that records drivers'
license plates.
Grandparents
charged with
towing kid behind
SUVTwo Florida grandparents
have been arrested afterpolice say they hookedtheir granddaughter's plas-tic toy car to their SUV and
gave her a ride.
A Sarasota County deputysaid he spotted the 7-year-old wearing a bathing suitand no helmet as she wastowed behind the SUVSunday. Her toy car wastied to a trailer hitch withdog leashes. She was not
harmed.
The Sarasota Herald-Tribune reports the vehiclewas travelling less than 10
mph.
Paul Berloni was chargedwith driving under the in-fluence, child endanger-ment and driving with a
suspended license.
Belinda Berloni faces achild endangerment charge.Both admitted they had
been drinking. Belinda saidthey were just having funand had been towing the
child all day.
The couple remained in jail
without bail.
Have a Flip Flop Flinging
Good Time with Your
American Red Cross
The American Red Cross ofNorthwest Florida will hold its larg-est fundraising event of the year, theFlip Flop Fling, on Thursday, May10th at the Pensacola Country Club.The luau-themed evening will fea-ture an exclusive dinner speciallycreated by nationally renownedchef, Jack McNulty, entertainment,silent auctions, networking, andentertainment. Proceeds raised willbenefit the local chapters programsand services including disaster relief
and education, health and safetytraining, and services to the militaryand their families.Auction Items and door prizes in-clude vacation packages, PensacolaBlue Wahoo tickets, spa certificates,fishing gear, golf packages, finedining gift certificates and muchmore!Sponsors of the 2012 Flip FlopFling include Regions Trust, GulfPower, Baptist Health Care, TotalEmployee Leasing, ResortQuest byWyndham Vacation Rentals and
Navy Federal Credit Union.
Festivities begin at 6:00 p.m. Tick-ets are $75 per person. For moreinformation or to purchase tickets,visit the event website atwww.redcross-nwfl-events.com or
call Jerry Kindle at850-432-7601.
http://www.clary-glenn.com/http://www.clary-glenn.com/http://www.kvia.com/news/30941775/detail.htmlhttp://www.kvia.com/news/30941775/detail.htmlhttp://abcnews.go.com/blogs/headlines/2012/04/new-mexico-town-residents-may-lose-utilities-for-unpaid-red-light-violations/http://www.thenewspaper.com/news/37/3774.asphttp://www.redcross-nwfl-events.com/http://www.redcross-nwfl-events.com/http://www.thenewspaper.com/news/37/3774.asphttp://abcnews.go.com/blogs/headlines/2012/04/new-mexico-town-residents-may-lose-utilities-for-unpaid-red-light-violations/http://www.kvia.com/news/30941775/detail.htmlhttp://www.kvia.com/news/30941775/detail.htmlhttp://www.clary-glenn.com/http://www.clary-glenn.com/ -
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Thursday, May 3, 2012 The EMERALD STAR NEWS Inc . Page 9
The 14 day Overview
Aquarius
1/202/18
Pisces
2/193/20
Aries
3/214/19
Taurus
4/205/20
Gemini
5/216/21
Cancer
6/227/22
Leo
7/238/22
Virgo
8/239/22
Libra
9/2310/22
Scorpio
10/2311/21
Sagittarius
11/2212/2
Capricorn
12/221/19
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 promotebusiness in Walton county. Thank you
Advertise with us!! Guaranteed the lowest price to fit any budget. Call today: 850.585.0262
The Freeport Veterans
Memorial committee is pleased to an-nounce that they have begun raising funds toadd a new monument to the memorial site.The "Fallen Soldier" monument will be a
beautiful tribute to those who paid the ulti-mate sacrifice in the fight for freedom.Fundraisers will be ongoing over the monthsto come and donations have already beganflowing in. Tim Ard, project chair says "Ithink after witnessing the construction of theFreeport Veterans Memorial, people knowthat we are serious and committed to this
project. Response to this new addition hasbeen overwhelming, and it is truly a movingpiece and will be the only one of its kind."The Monument is being constructed by
bronze artist Richard Rist of BaltimoreMaryland and GLMCO Memorials ofWalton County. Anyone needing informa-tion, or wanting to make a donation maycontact Ard at 850-585-3304. The unveiling
is scheduled for Veterans Day 2012.
You may feel a bit sensitive during the first couple days of this week. Your instinct might be to hide yourselfaway, but a little (selective!) company or conversation will, in fact, do you a world of good. Watch for a bigmood change around Wednesday; through the end of the workweek, you ought to be networking like crazy,
joining up with like-minded others for various purposes and maybe even forming a new mutual admiration
society.
While it may seem nicer to just go along with whatever's happening as the week begins, the stars say it's im-portant to think critically and stick to your guns. Whether it's a work issue or something in your personal life,be proactive. Note, however, that this doesn't mean saying everything that comes to mind, which may be a
danger. Silence is golden, and those who rush to fill it say inadvertently revealing things (let them!).The stars are taking you out of your comfort zone during the first few days of this week. It may be unsettling,
but take your time and bite your tongue. You'll want to let your feelings evolve a bit prior to sharing them.On Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, it's time to explore and celebrate differences. Assumptions? No way.
Draw others out instead of filling in the blanks yourself. And is it possible to give work a rest this weekend?
Be ready to combat your jealous streak as this week gets going. If there's someone else involved, communi-cate calmly and clearly; if this is all your issue, remind yourself of your real values. Speaking of real value,something that seems to have plenty of it around Wednesday, Thursday and Friday may turn out to be lack-
ing in the end. Don't overinvest in essentially unknown quantities.
While the first few days of this week may be fast-paced, you'll want to reduce your speed, both mentally and
physically. Work and personal matters deserve thought and insight, while your health deserves good care.Then, while you may have a lot to say around Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, make sure you aren't talk-ing at or down to anyone. Respect what they bring to the conversation, and use that sense of humor of yours.
Your moods are even more changeable than usual during the first few days of this week. Keep your optionsmostly open and your mouth mostly shut, lest you do or say something based on a fleeting feeling. Then
book that massage, take that day off or do whatever you've been thinking of on Wednesday, Thursday orFriday -- you need to provide some of that care you so generously give to others to yourself now. It'll feel
great. This weekend, be sure to set your priorities carefully.
You've got a way with seeing right to the heart of people and things as the week begins ... if you take thetime to look. It's a very special kind of vision, with special responsibilities -- what shall you do with whatyou find? Then what you find if you care to try around Wednesday, Thursday and Friday is some very inter-
esting stuff in the love department. Want to put yourself out there? You might as well! You're hot stuff now.You may have all your ducks in a row during the first few days of this week, but what about the surroundingscene? What's lurking nearby or underneath the water's surface? Sometime around Wednesday, Thursdayand Friday, a neglected area of (or person in) your life deserves some care. No time? Come on, you're organ-ized enough to fit it in! With the weekend comes an increased chance of romance -- you might want to plan
ahead and be organized about that, too!
Change in your financial realm is likely at the beginning of this week -- or maybe there's a change in thatarea you should proactively look to make? Be businesslike in your evaluations, even though there may be anemotional component. Things soon get more high-minded, with your intellect and ideals highlighted by thestars around Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Your brainpower's astonishing, and so is your ability to share
your thoughts and ideas with others.
You're the center of attention as the week begins -- if the stars have their say. Whatever you apply your con-siderable passion, energy and vision to really heats up, so prioritize accordingly. Are you going to follow thecrowd around on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday? There's no need to break any rules, but you do need to
go your own way, according to your own values.
The stars have a puzzle for you during the first couple days of this week, and there's no single correct solu-tion. In fact, the more you look and think, the more possibilities you'll see. Turn your attention to the impor-tant people in your life around Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. With the right set of approaches, problem-atic relationships can become easier, and wonderful ones can get even more full of wonder. This weekend,
you're unusually practical -- what brought this on? Use it or lose it.
You're particularly perceptive as the week begins, not missing a thing when it comes to work, personal mat-
ters and your world as a whole. Your current perspective -- both detailed and holistic -- is especially condu-cive to good decision-making. Beware of being too future-oriented around Wednesday, Thursday and Friday;while those hopes and plans are important, there's more urgent stuff in the here and now. It looks like you'll
be getting results this weekend in whatever you choose to do. Good for you!
Blue Knights Florida Chapter XXV An-
nounces Deputy Skip York Memorial
Poker
Run Scheduled for May 19
Annual Run Will Benefit the Emerald Coast
Children's Advocacy Center
The XXV Florida Chapter of the BlueKnights Motorcycle Club presents their an-nual memorial Poker Run in memory of Dep-uty Skip York and benefitting the Emerald
Coast Children's Advocacy Center May 19.
The cost is $20 for one rider and $25 for arider with a passenger. The ride is open tothe public and not limited to Blue Knightsmembers. Registration includes lunch andmusic following the run at Heritage CyclesHarley Davidson at 788 North Beal Parkway,Fort Walton Beach. Registration will start at8:30 a.m. with the first bike leaving at 9 a.m.The last bike is expected in by 1:30 p.m.Ride pins are available for the first 200 rid-ers. A unique raffle prize drawing will alsotake place following the ride. It is unique inthat participants are able to pick the itemsthey are interested in winning and not partici-
pate in the drawings for items that do not
interest them.
Deputy Warren K. "Skip" York and DeputyBurt Lopez were killed in the line-of-dutywhile attempting to arrest a domestic vio-lence suspect near Crestview. York was amember of the Blue Knights Motorcycle
Club Florida
Chapter XXV.
For more information, please contact Bruce
Stewart at 850-200-3055 or
[email protected] to volunteer or todonate raffle prizes please contact Katie Cro-
well at 850-833-9237 x256 [email protected].
http://gator1092.hostgator.com:2095/3rdparty/squirrelmail/src/compose.php?send_to=blueknightsXXV%40cox.nethttp://gator1092.hostgator.com:2095/3rdparty/squirrelmail/src/compose.php?send_to=katie%40eccac.orghttp://gator1092.hostgator.com:2095/3rdparty/squirrelmail/src/compose.php?send_to=katie%40eccac.orghttp://gator1092.hostgator.com:2095/3rdparty/squirrelmail/src/compose.php?send_to=katie%40eccac.orghttp://gator1092.hostgator.com:2095/3rdparty/squirrelmail/src/compose.php?send_to=katie%40eccac.orghttp://gator1092.hostgator.com:2095/3rdparty/squirrelmail/src/compose.php?send_to=blueknightsXXV%40cox.net -
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Page 10 The EMERALD STAR NEWS, Inc. Thursday, May 3, 2012
Support locally owned & operated business
Summer advertising specials going on now!!!
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The Cabin in the WoodsThis weekend, as my husband and I stood in front of themovie theatre trying to figure out what movie we wouldwatch for our date night, we got stuck between a handfulof movies we have been excited to see. We narrowed itdown and almost bought tickets for The Five Year En-gagement (which I still plan on seeing). However, my hus-
band, an avid horror film lover, has been excited for TheCabin in the Woods since he first found the trailer onlinein the beginning of the year. I, on the other hand, do not
like anything scary, and my husband usually watches hor-ror films with a friend rather than with me, but I put mycowardly lion hat on and insisted that we see the moviethat he has been so hyped on.
I was fully prepared to find my place behind my husbandsshoulder to shield myself from gallons of fake blood andimages of torture, but I was glued. From the opening sceneto the credits, this film had such a crazy, yet amazing,storyline that I was hooked. I spent the whole hour and ahalf trying to figure out what the heck was going on. I willadmit that there were a few parts that I had to shield myeyes, but this film took the same old storyline from almostevery other summer horror film and threw it into fourthgear.The basis of the film is a group of teenagers who go to aremote cabin in the woods for a weekend of booze, weed,and a lake. When one of the girls finds an old diary andread a line out loud, she awakens a family of evil zombies.Let me take this moment to say, this film is NOT youraverage zombie film, in fact, this film is NOT a zombiefilm. I know you are thinking, but you just said a family
of evil zombies. This film will blow your mind. If youenjoy monster movies, gore movies, or movies that just
leave you guessing until the very end, then you will lovethis film. I promise that this film will completely blowyour mind, if not for the content, then for the amazing spe-cial effects. I wont give anything away, but it took some
pretty amazing minds to think up and execute this film.
If you have any comments or recommendationsemail me at:
See You All at the Movies!!!
Obituary for Mary Watts Hughes
Mary Watts Hughes, 86, passed awaypeacefully in her home in MiramarBeach, Fl., Saturday, April 21, 2012after a lengthy illness.Mary was born November 29, 1925 to
John Nevin Watts and Betty MillerWatts in St. Albans, West Virginia. Sheworked as an Executive Secretary atCapital and United Airlines. It was inchurch in Miami Springs, Fl. that shemet her beloved husband, Lancelot Dur-rell Hughes, who was a pilot/flight engi-neer for Pan Am. During their marriagethey traveled the world together, London
being one of Mary's favorite places.They continued to travel extensivelyincluding numerous cruises after theirretirement. They were married for 43years until his death in January 2011Mary was a lifelong member of the Epis-copal church in Miami and here in SantaRosa Beach, Fl. She was a dedicated,selfless volunteer on numerous churchcommittees and functions. She also vol-unteered in the community at SacredHeart Hospital and Caring and Sharingof South Walton County.She and Lance were charter members of
Christ the King Episcopal Church fromits conception, first at Fisher's of MenRetreat Center, and then in the doublewide trailer on Hwy. 98 where early ser-vices were held. Mary loved reading andyou never saw her without a book inhand until the technology of the Kindleand IPad. Mary was self taught on all thelatest technology from Apple and shewas the one person that people wouldcall for assistance.Mary was preceded in death by her par-ents, John and Betty Watts, her lovinghusband Lancelot, her sisters, MildredW. Dunlap, Helen W. Sovine, DorothyW. Casto and brothers, James W. Wattsand Michael M. Watts.Mary is survived by her two stepsons,Lancelot Hughes, Jr. and wife, MarySusan Modzel, Paul Hughes and wife,Janet, and one stepdaughter, VikktoriaReres; seven step grand children DanaHughes and fiance Rikki Garrett, Erin
Hunter and husband Greg, MichaelHughes and wife Annie, Inger Reres,J.D. Reres, Torry Reres, Lance Reres;and one step-great grandson, GarrettBradley Hughes and numerous niecesand nephews.You may go on line to view obituaries,offer condolences and sign guest book atwww.clary-glenn.comClary Glenn Freeport Chapel FuneralHome is entrusted with the arrange-ments.
Letter to the EDITOR: 331Toll Bridge Debate
ForWhom The Bridge Tolls
The Florida Department of Transportation, (FDOT), has offeredto build another two lane bridge by the current Clyde B. Wells
bridge if Walton County contributes $75 million to the cost of thebridge. In addition, the FDOT will complete four lanes of 331 be-tween 98 and I-10 by 2017. The need for four lanes is due to theinflux of visitors during Spring Break, summer tourists and Snow-
birds. In particular, the need is strong to be able to evacuate citi-zens and tourist quickly during the hurricane season. The state
prefers a toll bridge to come up with the$75 million. A toll wouldplace the major cost of the funds on workers that have to cross the
bridge and is estimated to take 30years.
An alternate way to pay for the bridge is to put a cent sales taxincrease in effect until the $75 million is paid. This tax will not
apply to food, pharmaceuticals or gasoline and will not apply topurchases in excess of $5,000.00. This tax would put the majorityof the cost on the tourists, the reason we need four lanes to startwith. It is estimated the tax would take 15 to 17 years to pay our
portion.
The May 8,2012 referendum will ask the Walton County votersto vote yes or no to the cent sales tax increase for constructionof the bridge. It will not tell voters that a no vote will result in atoll bridge. Although a few of the Walton County Commissionersare opposed to a toll bridge, from the meetings I have attended,they will approve a toll bridge if the sales tax is defeated. The citi-
zens of Walton County will not get to vote on this decision.
I encourage everyone to vote for the cent sales tax and put theburden for payment on the tourists for whom the four lanes arebeing built. We're talking about 50 cents for every 100 dollars we
spend on everything except food, medicine and gasoline.
Otherwise, the workers who have to cross the bridge daily willprobably have to pay between10 and 20 dollars every week. Theactual amount will not be known until the FDOT completes a full
study later this year.
Respectfully,
Bill Fletcher
Walton County Resident
The Walton Republican Women Federatedwill be holding their monthly meeting on Wednesday May 16,11:00 AM at Carrabba's Italian Grill located inside the Silver SandsOutlet Mall in Miramar Beach. We are extremely pleased to an-nounce our guest speaker will be Abigail MacIver. Ms. MacIver isthe Director of Policy and External Affairs for the Florida Chapterof Americans for Prosperity. She will be speaking on "EconomicFreedom and The Future of Our Country and Our State". A lunchof Caesar Salad, Pasta Carrabba, bread, beverage and dessert will
be served. Cost is $18.00 for members and $20.00 for guests.
Contact Margaret Crozier for reservations at 837-5321.
Son Is Moving Outjoke
Two men were having coffee when one of them said: "Last nightmy son just walked into the living room and said, 'Dad, cancel myallowance immediately, rent my room, throw all my clothes out thewindow, take my TV, stereo, iPhone, iPod, and my laptop. Pleasegive my jewelry to the Salvation Army. Then, sell my car. Takemy front-door key away from me and throw me out of the house.
Then disown me and never talk to me again.And don't forget to write me out of your will and leave my share to
my brother.'"
The other man said: "Wow, he really said that?"
"Well, he didn't put it quite that way. He actually said, 'Dad, I've
decided to work for Obama's reelection campaign.'"
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected] -
7/31/2019 May 3,2012 Edition
11/12
Rosemary Beach Farmer's MarketRosemary Beach,FL: Applications are cur-rently being accepted for those who groworganic vegetables, fruits, raise plants, makesnacks, breads, pastries, candies, or producemilks and cheeses, and other foods, to be part
of the Sunday Farmer's Markets being held atRosemary Beach, FL. The Farmer's Marketwill coincide with the weekend West Indies
Markets, throughout the summer months.
Market days are:
Sunday, May 13, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday, June 10, from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sunday, July 15, from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
All those interested in selling their products to Sun-day market crowds of 2,500-3,000, are encouragedto apply for this exciting event. For more informa-
tion, call Hilltop Productions at 1-850-951-2148.
FOR RENT
Two story Carriage House for Rentoff 30A near Dune AllenQuiet unfurnished rental features
poplar wood walls in kitchen andliving room, new fridge, new kitchencabinets with granite counter tops,dishwasher, W/D hook-up. 1 1/2 ba.And 1 large upstairs bedroom w/small balcony. No pets. Electric,water and sewage included in $1000rent. Call 850-499-0278
The Emerald Star News
office # is: 850-585-0262
Located in Freeport Florida
SERVICES
Any size, style, designVinyl lettering, car wraps, banners,
business cards, etc.Design/layout services available.
Call for FREE estimate. 585-0262
Handyman-25yrs. Exp.All phases of home repair./remodelFree estimates. Excellent work for a
great price. For more informationCall: ESN @ 850.585.0262
Yard Workextremely reasonable rates. Let mehelp clean up your area. Call ESN:
850-585-0262 for details/times.
Four-posted bed, 101
years old. Perfect for
antique lover.
The EMERALD STAR NEWS Inc. Page 11Thursday, May 3, 2012
HELP WANTED
Exp/accurate representative needed
to work, he/she must be above 18yrsold and must have a good qualities towork. Interested applicant should
please contact :[email protected]
Tile installers with a minimumof 2 yrs. exp. Must be willing to worksome evenings and weekends. Please
call Jimmy Decker at 850 399 0303.
Volunteersneeded at the AlaquaAnimal refuge. Must be 18 +For more information call(850) 880-6399
Advertising sales positionsexcellent opportunity-call now!!Positions available with little to no exp.With leads. Call 850.585.0262
Got an item you want to sell?
Classifieds
Only $10per issue
For SaleFreshly raked Pine Straw. Dry bailedstored in barn. Only $3.50 per bail delivered.
Call 333-0877
Do you like to meet new
people? Sales may be the wayWork where you live? Would you want to
join a co. of friendly local people? Wouldyou like to offer great deals with the
business people in Walton county?
For more details call: 850-585-0262
Volunteers Needed
In Walton county,only 44% of the children in the court
system have a volunteer Guardian AdLitem, Freeport has lots of cases thatneed volunteers. Please considervolunteering, it only takes a few hours amonth after you are trained, and makesa big difference in the life of a local
child.
Visit www.beaguardian.org fill outthe application, save it and send it [email protected] you will be so
glad you did!!
2005 Skyline Park Model Trailer 41x12
Like NEW!! Used only 18mos.Furnished, one bedroom, fully equipped,W/D, D/W, central AC. Must be moved toyour site. Only $27K..call 850-835-4021
The Summer West Indies Markets andFarmer's Market
-Join us all summer-long, the second week-
end of each month, from May-July, for this
exciting event that has become a hub forthousand of artists, from all over the world,
over the past 15 years.
Pottery, fine art, paintings, sculpture, hand-crafted jewelry and furniture, designer cloth-ing, and this year, introducing the Rosemary
Beach Farmer's Market, taking place on theSunday of each West Indies Market weekendwith a variety of fruits and vegetables, fresh
breads and plants.
For more information, or to be a vendor,
log on to www.hilltopproductionsinc.com
The Annual May Day Fest & BBQ Cook-Offwill be held on May 5th at the Wee CarePark in DeFuniak Springs. Softball, enter-
tainment, family fun, and more.Free admission.
The activities will begin about 8 am withopening ceremonies at 10 am. Visitwww.annualmaydayfestival.com orcall 582-6026 about the BBQ Cook-Off or
call 520-4290 about softball or the festival.
Friends of the Walton County
Coastal Library HUGE BOOK
SALE, May 19 from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00p.m. There are many, many titles to choose
from.
Find Non-Fiction, popular Fiction, NewAuthors, and Children's Books. You canalso find Cookbooks, Garden and Design,
History Collection, Art Books and much,much, more. Don't miss this HUGE BookSale in the community room at the CoastalBranch Library. Plus, take this opportunityto join the Friends of the Coastal Library!As a new member to the Friends, shop the
pre-sale on Friday from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00p.m. with your minimal tax-deductible con-tribution membership of $10.00 dollars tohelp support your local library. Please con-tact Linda L. Thompson at the Coastal Li-
brary (850) 267-2809 437 Greenway Trail,
Santa Rosa Beach, FLfor more information.www.youseemore.com/walton
SAVE THE DATE... Grit & Grace, Inc.
Cordially invites you to join them for the
2012 kick-off reception for the production ofLife at the Landingsand Beyond
June 14, @ 6 p.m.
The Florida Chautauqua Hall of Brotherhood
DeFuniak Springs, FL
It will give those attending a chance to hearabout this years production, meet the playwrite and director, have a chance to join theGrit & Grace organization, and the opportu-nity to meet the cast and crew of this years
production, as well as, members of the pro-
duction from years gone by.Check us out on Facebook/
www.gritandgrace.org.
Regrets only - 850.830.9625/
http://gator1092.hostgator.com:2095/3rdparty/squirrelmail/src/compose.php?send_to=bendaton%40live.comhttp://gator1092.hostgator.com:2095/3rdparty/squirrelmail/src/compose.php?send_to=nina.stephens%40gal.fl.govhttp://www.youseemore.com/waltonhttp://www.youseemore.com/waltonhttp://gator1092.hostgator.com:2095/3rdparty/squirrelmail/src/compose.php?send_to=hinsonharmony%40yahoo.comhttp://gator1092.hostgator.com:2095/3rdparty/squirrelmail/src/compose.php?send_to=hinsonharmony%40yahoo.comhttp://www.youseemore.com/waltonhttp://www.youseemore.com/waltonhttp://gator1092.hostgator.com:2095/3rdparty/squirrelmail/src/compose.php?send_to=nina.stephens%40gal.fl.govhttp://gator1092.hostgator.com:2095/3rdparty/squirrelmail/src/compose.php?send_to=bendaton%40live.com -
7/31/2019 May 3,2012 Edition
12/12
Page 12 The EMERALD STAR NEWS Inc. Thursday, May 3, 2012
Ph: 850-835-4153 www.freeportwaterfront.com
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND PHOTOS - TEXT PROPERTY ID# TO 85377
THE FLORIDA GOOD LIFE - ID# T3059143BR/2.5BA, 1,836 SF cottage on LaGrangeBayou. 1st floor Master BR. Open kitchen w/
granite countertops. Dbl garage. $369,500
LAGRANGE BAYOU - ID# T884974BR/3.5BA w/over 2,100 SF on 1.3 acres. 9ft. ceilings & new Florida rm. Oversized
garage + studio. Covered boatlift. $519,000
HWY 90 ACREAGE - ID# T483643Owner financing available with 10% downand flexible terms! Over 4 acres of levelland with public water available. $75,000
WATERFRONT DEAL! - ID# T88494Almost 1 acre on Mallet Bayou!
3BR/2BA home with 1,514 SF. Dock w/power & water, fenced yard. $236,500
GREAT PRICE! - ID# T402715Bayou Bend S/D interior lot with wateraccess to LaGrange Bayou. Beautiful oaktrees. Restricted. CW available. $29,900
6 ACRES-SHORT SALE - ID# T379251Near Eglin AFB Reservation. Over 1,600sq. ft. w/3BR/2.5BA. Updated kitchen, s/sappliances. Pole barn & more. $164,900
RIVER RENDEZVOUS - ID# T4160491st class cabin on Choctawhatchee. 3BR/3BA,approx. 1,700 SF. FP, vaulted ceilings. 50x70
metal bldg. across street included. $299,800
MALLET BAYOU - ID# T88486Waterfront lot in Emerald Shores w/ greatwesterly views of Bayou. Lucky fishing inlocal waters! City W&S avail. $134,900
CARIBBEAN FUN - ID# T3783192br/1.5ba, two-story bungalow directly onBlack Creek. Dock w/electric. Storage shed,dbl carport. Must see! $189,000
BAYFRONT LOT - ID# T88493Bay Harbour lot being offered at anunbelievably low price. Not a short sale!
Owner Financing Available. $149,000
BAY HARBOUR - ID# T356156With dock & seawall in place. Power &water avail. on dock. Ready to build!Owner financing considered. $189,900
EMERALD SHORES - ID# 88485Protected water with easy access to theIntracoastal & Choctawhatchee Bay. CW&Savailable. Tremendous potential! $159,000
BAYOU PARADISE - ID# T88496Elegant custom home features 2,617 SF,3 BR/2.5 BA w/ office & open floor plan
perfect for entertaining! $749,000
ACREAGE-HOME-SHOP - ID# T884951.79 acres w/brick 3BR/2BA, 1,800 SF oncorner. BONUS30 x 60 metal workshop!!Short Sale, As-Is. NOWONLY $175,000
HOME WITH 7.5 ACRES - ID# T4909183BR/2BA, 2,910 SF brick home. Workshop& carport. CW&S avail. Needs renovation.Zoned R-3. Bank Owned. $149,500
10 ACRES - UNRESTRICTEDClose to Choctawhatchee River, w/easyaccess to boat launches. Survey completed.Owner Financing Available. $60,000