Local Relay for Life Gets Bigger, and Bigger, and Bigger…

Large turnout at Citizens Lodge Park is support of ongoing fight against killer cancer

By Sid Riley

"You have Cancer!!" Those are diagnostic words which send shivers of fear into the soul of thousands of victims and their loving families every year. At one time it was a prelude to almost certain death.
However, due to millions of well intended and well used dollars spent on research over the past few decades, survival rates for almost every form of cancer have greatly improved. It is the work of organizations and fund raising events such as the "Relay for Life" which have helped make these survivor rate improvements a reality.
Led by local organizations such as Chipola Area Board of Realtors, under the project team name "Ragin Cajun’s", the local "Central Jackson County Relay for Life" event has become a growing, wonderful event for the Jackson County community. This year there were forty-two fund raising teams enrolled in the event, with twenty-eight of those actually setting up team displays, musical entertainment, lots of food, novelties, a drawing for a diamond sponsored by Smith and Smith Jewelers, a steak dinner for all cancer survivors and immediate family provided by Royal American Management, lots of educational materials, and a tremendous outpouring of support for the cancer fighting effort.
Laina Jackson, of Connors Realty, who was one of the organizing committee participants, states that this year’s event surpassed all previous local Relay for Life events by a huge margin. On Saturday morning the total monies raised had already exceeded a whopping $62,000, and they were still counting! A wrap-up meeting will be held at the Jackson Hospital cafeteria on May 5, to present the final achievements to the organizers, and give special recognitions to these hard working volunteers.

The Dozier Graves Were There in 1940

USDA Aerial Photographs Show "Controversial" Cemetery Existed Before World War II

By Dale Cox

The little cemetery near Dozier School which has been the subject of so much controversy of late actually existed for decades prior to the current allegations. In fact, aerial photographs taken by the U.S. Department of Agriculture clearly show that the cemetery was part of the Marianna landscape as early as 1940.
Historical records indicate that most of the graves in the burial ground, which is located on the hill behind the Jackson County Correctional Complex, probably date from 1914 and 1918.
A deadly accidental fire took place at what was then the Florida Reform School in 1914, claiming the lives of six students and two staff members. A Jackson County Grand Jury report indicates that the fire was caused either by a faulty heater or spontaneous combustion from a nearby pile of oily rags. Regardless of the cause, however, it quickly spread through a dormitory at the school threatening the lives of everyone inside.
While more than fifty students were led to safety by staff members, five other students and two staff members were trapped by the flames. Grand Jury records indicate that a desperate effort was made to save them. Several staff members, including the facility’s superintendent, received severe burns in an unsuccessful effort to reach the unfortunate individuals. A sixth student died after he ran back into the building to try to save one of the staff members. A letter written in 1914 from the superintendent to the mother of one of the victims indicates that those who died in the fire were burned beyond recognition and were buried on the grounds.
A second tragedy at the school in 1918 claimed at least 13 more lives. According to U.S. health records, what is now Dozier School was severely impacted by the terrible influenza epidemic that year that killed hundreds of thousands of Americans. A federal health inspector visited the Florida Reform School and found that hundreds of students and all of the staff members were severely ill with the flu. According to his report, one dozen students and one staff member had already died in the epidemic and many others were near death.
These two incidents alone count for the deaths of at least 21 people at the school prior to 1920, all of whom are believed to have been buried on the grounds. Records also verify the deaths of other individuals at the school over the years, from causes ranging from accidental drowning to the murder of a student by another student.
The fact that the little cemetery there existed during the early 1900s can be confirmed by aerial photographs taken by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. A series of photographs taken through the 1940s show that the Dozier Cemetery then looked much as it does today. The initial photograph, taken in 1940, shows the clearly visible graves on open ground on the hilltop where they can still be seen. A second photograph, taken in 1948, is so detailed that the headstones can be seen. A third, taken in 1960, shows the cemetery surrounded by trees as it is today.

Editor’s Note: Writer and historian Dale Cox is the author of a number of books on Florida and Southern history, including The History of Jackson County, Florida: The Early Years. His books are available at Chipola River Book and Tea in Downtown Marianna or online at www.amazon.com.

Independent Consultant Says The City Should Proceed with Purchase….Florida Public Utilities Says It Would be Unwise Not to Renew Franchise

Largest Business Decision of this Decade to be made by current City Commissioners

By Sid Riley
Should the City renew the municipal electrical service franchise with the current provider, Florida Public Utilities….or should the city move into another approach? That is the question of the hour in City Hall.
The existing franchise contract with FPU expires in 2010. Some cities are finding it to their advantage to become municipal utilities, operating as the electrical service provider for those citizens living within the city limits. The City Commission has four options to choose from.
● It can renew the franchise with Florida Public Utilities.
● It can deny the franchise renewal, purchase the existing infrastructure, sever and reconnect the system to serve only Marianna, and become a Municipal Utility.
● It can make the franchise available for bids from other eligible area electrical utilities, such as Gulf Power or West Florida Electric.
● It can deny the franchise renewal, purchase, sever and reconnect, and then enter into a contractual agreement with another area utility for day to day maintenance and operations management.
It should be clearly stated from the onset that regardless of which option is taken, there is little hope for the consumer to expect any reductions in utility rates in the near future. The reduction of electrical fees is not the intent or justification for consideration of these options.
Under the existing arrangement, the City of Marianna realizes revenues of approximately $1.0 million dollars per year in franchise fee payments from Florida Public Utilities. These fees are based on a percentage of gross electrical charges rendered by FPU within the city limits. Of course these fees are actually part of the FPU billing structure, and are in actuality additional fees paid by the citizens of Marianna, in excess of their electrical charges.
The only significant reason for Marianna taking over the electrical system would be to increase revenues for the city. Obviously, FPU is making a profit from selling electricity to the citizens of Marianna. If that profit is large enough to retire all involved debts, and create needed positive cash flow, it would be wise for the Commissioners to proceed with the change. Added revenues would then enable the City to more effectively deal with problems in city infrastructure related to decaying roads, aging sewer and water systems, and storm water run-off problems. Revenues from the electrical operations could enable the city to proceed with this much needed work without being required to increase other rates, taxes and fees in the City.
At Wednesday’s meeting of the Marianna City Commission, the utilities expert, Bill Herrington, who was engaged as a consultant by the Commissioners to prepare an in-depth analysis of the financial feasibility of the city proceeding with an acquisition of the electrical system which serves the citizens of Marianna, presented his analysis. In a spirit of fair play, the Commissioners also allowed executives of Florida Public Utilities an opportunity to present their views in the matter.
Consultant’s Presentation:
The initial portion of Herrington’s presentation dealt with defining differences in the "Severance and Reintegration" cost analysis he had previously prepared and presented to the Commission, as compared to data later presented to the Commissioners by FPU. FPU had estimated the cost of Severance and Reintegration of the system to be approximately $4.0 million dollars, while Herrington’s analysis had derived a cost of $1.8 million. Although Herrington stated that in his opinion, in the total scope of the question, this difference was not that significant to the decision. However, he did define some of the differences in approaches used to derive the costs.
FPU had included a redundant feed for back up service to Family Dollar, which Herrington had felt could be accomplished through another negotiated approach which would utilize the nearby FPU system which would be serving the area outside of the City limits. Also, FPU’s cost estimate had involved installation of all new transformers and feeders, while he had used rental of the existing devices from FPU. Also there were differences in the costing approach used relating to backbone feeders exiting substations. Herrington’s analysis then presented alternative solutions to these problem areas which would in total only add $151,000 to his original costing.
Herrington’s analysis presented a total cost estimate for acquisition and start up of $9.5 million dollars, which would be funded by issuance of municipal bonds at an interest rate of 5%. This was based on a customer count of 3148 customers, and approximately $107,000,000 in annual sales. During the debt retirement period, he projected an annual increase in revenues for the City of $330,000. He then calculated a 13.8 % internal rate of return on investment, showing that the investment was financially feasible and attractive.
Herrington also cited having more control over operations, policies, level of service quality were added advantages. He also described how combining municipal electrical administration with municipal gas distribution administration would have distinct advantages.
His report concluded by describing how municipalities all over the state are taking over their electrical utilities delivery systems. Florida currently has 34 municipal electric companies, with over 2,000 existing nation wide. Nationally, these have lower rates than investor owned utilities.
Florida Public Utilities Presentation:
The power point presentation for FPU was presented by a team of company executives, led by Chuck Stein, Senior VP and Chief Operating Officer. A major portion of the data was presented by Robert Bellemare, P.E. with consulting firm of UtiliPoint of Albuquerque, New Mexico. They were engaged by FPU to conduct a full financial analysis for comparison to the data prepared by Bill Harrington and his consulting firm.
First, FPU explained that the recently accomplished merger of FPU with Chesapeake Utilities will have no impact on local FPU operations. They stated that the City should continue to engage with FPU as their utility franchisee because of the successful 75 year history of providing service, their in-depth knowledge of the local systems, and the fact that the city is realizing $1.0 million per year in franchise fees without having to take any risks.
Then UtiliPoint began the financial analysis presentation. They began by disputing the $9.5 million total cost figure developed by Herrington. They feel a more correct figure will exceed $16.0 million dollars. The primary differences relate to the procedures used for cost of assets purchased by the city (new, requiring installation vs. used, installed purchased from FPU), differences in providing a redundant system for Family Dollar Distribution Center, and a $4.1 million "going concern" payment to FPU which Herington did not recognize as a requirement.
As a result of these differences, UtiliPoint displayed an annual loss for the city of $391,000 instead of the positive cash flow of $330,000 demonstrated by Herrington. They stated that if their estimates are correct, the city would have to raise rates in order to meet obligations.
The presentation also stressed the risk factors which are involved. These include the uncertain economy, a "no growth" environment in Marianna over the past five years, and a significant decline in kwh sold in the area due to the economy and conservation efforts.
Finally, the results of the customer survey which was made by FPU were discussed. This survey revealed that only 35% of those contacted were in favor of the purchase by the city, clearly showing that there was no public mandate.
In conclusion, FPU requested a ten year renewal contract from the city, and agreed to retain the existing purchase clause in the agreement.
The City Commission will hold a special workshop session at 5:00 on Monday, May 4 as a review of this matter. If they elect to proceed, the matter will be presented to the voters in Marianna in a referendum.

Marianna Commission Seeks Stimulus Funds

Official approve applying for $4.7 million dollars for Phase One project on modernization of city water system.
By Sid Riley
At Thursday’s special meeting of the Marianna City Commission the commissioners listened to a presentation given by Amir Zafar. P.E., of Hatch Mott Macdonald. This is the firm which has been conducting an in-depth analysis of the infrastructure of the city to identify critical areas of need, to determine costs, and to develop programs of implementation.
The defined Phase 1 project of the water delivery systems updating involves areas of the system all over the city which are most in need of replacement. Much of the older system is made of cast iron piping which is badly rusted and corroded. This causes a tremendous leakage problem which overworks system pumping stations, and often results in periods of low or lost pressure.
The proposal involves having the city submit the defined project for funding through the State Revolving Fund, which is the vehicle through which these types of state projects are receiving federal stimulus funds. The SRF can approve up to 85% funding for such a project. The balance of the funding would have to be achieved through other funding approaches, perhaps loans to the city from USDA or other agencies.
Phase 1 would refurbish approximately 28% of the city’s total water system. New fire hydrants would be included in the replacement processes, and where needed, additional fire hydrants would be installed. If the planned approach succeeds, the program could be accomplished without having any impact on existing water rates.
The commissioners unanimously approved proceeding with the application processing.
In other matters, City Manager Jim Dean reports that the Kelson Avenue project is nearing completion. The planned completion date is May 7.

Still Getting Better and Better…Our Paper Is Adding A New Feature

By Sid Riley
We have a professional quality political cartoonist living and working right here in Jackson County. Larry Brock, a well known and appreciated graphic artist and signwriter, is teaming up with ideas submitted by this writer, to create original, humorous, thought provoking political cartoons. These will be featured each week on the same page that carries "Getting It Right", our conservative political column.
Under the by-line, "Larry Did It", each week Larry Brock’s artistic interpretation of Sid Riley’s views on current events will be a new feature, titled "Not To Mention It". We hope this opens new vistas for this talented local artist.
Larry Brock is the son of Paul and Juanita Brock of Marianna. He is a graduate of Marianna High School. After high school Larry graduated from the Ringling School of Art in Sarasota, Florida and Art Instruction School, of Minneapolis, Minnesota. He has been in the graphic arts/sign business in Jackson County since he graduated from art school. Larry is the proud father of six children and ten grandchildren.
During his career Larry has won numerous awards for his works in art shows and exhibits throughout North Florida. His ability to hand paint signs with original hand art graphics is a dying talent in today’s computerized graphics environment. He has also created hand murals in several homes, businesses, and museums, some as far away as Jacksonville and Miami.
He is currently working with a Florida author in providing illustrations for a new book. We consider ourselves fortunate to have the opportunity to display his talents in the Jackson County Times.

Jackson County Times Welcomes Two New Sales Associates

By Sid Riley
Our newspaper, the Jackson County Times, is proud to welcome two new members to our family. Rebecca Dodson and Karen Nichols have joined us, and will be Marketing Representatives for the Jackson County Times.
Karen is a Clarksville girl, attended and graduated from Blountstown High School, and then graduated from Chipola College. Her career includes experience in marketing for WMBB Channel 13 and WPGX Fox Channel 28.
Karen has two daughters, Courtney and Kamryn. Her warm smile and energetic approach are attributes which will help her as she markets advertising for our paper.
Rebecca was raised in Ashford, Alabama, and graduated from high school there. She then earned her bachelors degree in Criminal Justice from Troy State University. She also has a Law Enforcement Degree from Chipola. She has a nineteen year old daughter, a fiancée, and a loving dog named "Bubba".
She has a twenty year law enforcement career which spans service in Florida, Georgia, and Alabama. She regularly teaches evening courses at Chipola at the Law Enforcement Academy, as an adjunct instructor.
During days she will be representing the Jackson County Times as a sales representative. Her bubbly personality and high energy level will be assets as she begins to become known by our advertisers.

An Overview of Arguments Made Between Chipola Faculty Union and Chipola Administration

By Sid Riley
Negotiations have been underway for many months between the Faculty Union at Chipola, the Chipola Faculty Association, and Chipola’s Administrators. Those negotiations developed agreement over a broad range of issues for inclusion in a new union contract between these parties, but an impasse was declared over several contested areas where no agreement seemed to be possible. Because of this situation, a magistrate was summoned to the scene to render a ruling on these contested matters after hearing arguments from both sides.
This meeting was conducted in the Chipola Board Room last Wednesday, April 22 before Magistrate Tom Young, of Port Charlotte, Florida. He will render his report of findings by May 29.
This feature will attempt to summarize the arguments and positions presented to the Magistrate at that meeting. Arguments for the union were directed by Lawyers Ed Mitchell and Tom Wazlavek who presented testimony from Bruce White, Faculty Instructor and President of the JCFA Union, and Karen Lipford, Nursing Instructor. Arguments for Chipola Administration were directed by Attorney Michael Mattimore, who entered testimony from Steve Young, VP of Finance at Chipola, and Sarah Clemmons, Sr. VP of Instruction and Student Services.
Issue: Faculty Pay
Arguments Made by Chipola Faculty Association (Union):
● Average faculty pay at Chipola is $43,222, which is third from lowest for the 28 Community Colleges in Florida.
● State average pay for community college faculty is $52,200.
● Nursing instructors are able to make $20,000 per year more by working in medical field, Chipola’s pay is not competitive.
● Average pay for the 30 administrative staff members at Chipola is $83,300, which is out of line with faculty pay.
● During negotiations Chipola offered no program of increases for faculty in new contract. In some cases, pay cuts were requested.
Rebuttal Arguments Made by Chipola Administration:
● Average faculty pay presentation depicts a false picture since it includes very large colleges when all 28 state colleges are included.
● When the faculty pay averages for the six smallest community colleges is presented, Chipola’s faculty pay is at the middle point of the range.
● The pay data presented does not present the differences in benefits paid to faculty. For instance, at Chipola the school pays 100% of a very costly medical insurance plan for the instructors.
● When overload payments and comp time payments made to faculty are included, the average gross pay for faculty averages over $6,000 per year in additional faculty pay.
● Chipola has a policy of using full time faculty for almost all instruction (83%) instead of adjunct instructors. This increases the number of full time faculty on staff.
Issue: Faculty Work Hours Required, and class load requirements. Existing contract requires 35 hours/week and 72 annual points (30 per semester and 12 during summer), Union wants this reduced to 25 hours/week and 60 points per year.
Arguments Presented by JCFA Union:
● Existing requirements of 15 class hours, 13 in-office hours, and 7 on-campus hours is more than is asked of most community colleges.
● Most instructors work many additional hours at home grading and performing administrative duties.
● Instructors are professionals and should not be relegated to "punching a clock" type requirements. They are professionals and will do what is required, contract or no contract.
● The existing requirements for course instruction will be covered by the staff, only it will be done on a voluntary, overload pay basis.
● We want a contracted 25 hours per week, with 15 class hours and 10 office hours. Also, want a revised class load requirement of 60 points per year instead of the existing 72 points.
Rebuttal Arguments Presented by Chipola Administration:
● Proposal would reduce contracted workload to ridiculous low level.
● Proposal would leave 80 courses with no contracted instructor. Would force the school to drop offerings, increase class sizes, and increase use of adjunct instructors.
● Would increase cost of payroll by $150,000 per year.
● Existing workload has been in place for over 20 years with no problems.
● School can not schedule classes based on hope that instructors will volunteer to teach them.
● This would essentially create a three day work week for faculty. Suitable teachers could not be found to fill requirements created by these proposed changes.
● We can not increase our costs when we know additional funding cuts are forthcoming from the state next year.
Issue: Chipola is placing too much emphasis on funding athletic programs and thus does not properly fund needs of faculty.
Arguments presented by JCFA Union:
● Chipola spends $958,000 ($1.37 million total) per year on athletics from Fund 1, which on a percentage of Fund 1 expenditures, is the most of any of the 28 community colleges in Florida. At the same time it ranks 26th in faculty salaries.
● Chipola is currently awarding 60 athletic scholarships. More than any other community college.
● Chipola is one of only three or four community colleges which has a full time Director of Athletics position, and the others are very large colleges.
● During the past 10 years faculty pay has only increased 15% while expenditures for athletics has increased 60%.
Rebuttal Arguments presented by Chipola Administration:
● Expenditure data on athletics is distorted since a significant portion comes from Chipola Boosters which puts their funds in the Chipola Foundation which then puts the money into the Fund 1 account. Thus it is really locally raised money, not general administration funds from the state.
● Chipola is one of the few state community colleges with four sports in their athletic program to fund.
● Since Chipola’s teams have been winning regional, state, and national titles, the costs of the programs have been increased due to travel expenses.
● Costs of scholarships have been increased by recent tuition increases.
● Costs include $80,000 per year for insurance cost on programs, this cost may be presented in other areas of accountability by other colleges.
● The manner in which athletic expenditures are categorized can differ from college to college, making comparative data unreliable.
● The spirit and image created by Chipola’s athletic programs helps attract students to the college.

Can You Identify the Mystery Gentleman in This Picture??

Framed Picture found in closet of home purchased in Bascom
By Sid Riley
Geraldine and Don Wilkinson of Alford recently held a yard sale. A friend brought this picture for inclusion in the items to be sold. The lady who brought the picture stated that her family had recently purchased an old home on Neil Landing Road near Bascom, and this unique picture was found in a closet of the house.
The Wilkinson’s kept the picture and are now attempting to identify who this young lad is. Can you help? If so, contact us at the Jackson County Times, 526-1501.