Carol West honored
Dixie County government facts shared

Carol West (left) accepts the plaque from Karen VanAernam as County Commissioner Mark Hatch stands by the women. West has served on the North Florida Economic Development Partnership on behalf of Dixie County for nine years, including serving as treasurer during part of that time.

Story and Photos
By Jeff M. Hardison © June 10, 2023 at 10 a.m.
     CROSS CITY – The June 8 luncheon meeting of the Dixie County Chamber of Commerce was jampacked with information and activity and it included a wonderful lunch.

More Below This Ad

Click On Ad To Go To Website.

     No meeting is planned for the Dixie County Chamber of Commerce in July.
     Among the many things that happened at the meeting were an award presentation to Carol West, facts about the Dixie County government and how the Dixie County High School chapter of the FFA helped the Chamber with the display of American Flags for the week surrounding Memorial Day 2023.
     The DCHS FFA members who helped put up the flags along U.S. Highway 19 in May helped the Chamber volunteers immensely.
     The Chamber members voted unanimously to donate $2,000 to the FFA for this help. The Chamber also agree to donate another $2,000 after the DCHS FFA helps with flag placement in November for Veterans Day.
     The idea is for the FFA members also to be responsible for construction and maintenance of new flags for the 200-plus flags that are put next to the road the week around Memorial Day and Veterans Day to honor veterans.
     A delicious meal of barbecue was provided by the Dixie County Board of County Commissioners, and that great food came from across U.S. Highway 19 from the Dixie County Library at Cross City – Smokehouse BBQ, a relatively recently opened barbecue restaurant.
     Chamber members spoke with each other about the annual Fly-In and Expo at Cross City Airport. Dana Sheffield, an extremely significant worker in this annual event for every year since the inception of the event recently suffered a stroke and is not seen as being able to continue to participate as much next year.
     Other Chamber volunteers in this project are “aging-out” too, so to speak, and new volunteers are sought. An option the Chamber members are considering is to hire an independent contractor to put on the event and clean up afterward.
     This annual event has drawn thousands of people to participate and enjoy the fly-in, car show and business exposition in years past.

Among the leaders of the Dixie County Chamber of Commerce are (from left) Secretary Tina Keen, Treasurer Debbie Dembo and Co Vice President Melany Anderson. Co Vice President Richard Balog of Balog & Hodges, CPAs, was in the audience, as was his business partner Anne G. Hodges, CPA. Chamber President Andrew Rains was not present. Co Vice President Anderson led the meeting.

Carol West Honored
     Many people in Dixie County know Carol West is extremely involved in several things to help the community, including the Chamber of Commerce, the Dixie Education Foundation, the Tourist Development Council and other groups.
     Near the conclusion of the meeting Thursday afternoon, Dixie County Commissioner Mark Hatch mentioned that he and Karen VanAernam, the most recent appointee by the Dixie County Commission to serve as the county’s representative at the North Florida Economic Development Partnership (NFEDP), attended a recent NFEDP meeting and there was a presentation to be made.
     At the March 2 Dixie County Commission meeting, the County Commission voted to appoint VanAernam to take the place of West at the NFEDP. Commissioner Hatch is the county commissioner representing Dixie County at the NFEDP.
     The NFEDP is governed by a Board of Directors comprised of elected officials and economic development professionals from each of the 14 counties, municipal government representatives, regional workforce development board representatives, private sector partners, and regional education consortiums (representing K-12, private colleges, and universities) within the NFEDP’s area of service.
     The 14 counties served by the NFEDP are Baker, Bradford, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Putnam, Suwannee, Taylor, and Union counties.
     The words on the wooden plaque note “Carol West, 2021-2023, In Sincere Gratitude For Your Dedication And Outstanding Service To The Communities Of The North Florida Economic Development Partnership.”
     Although the plaque shows 2021-2023, West has been active in the NFEDP for nine years.

Dixie County Government Facts Shared
     Dixie County Commissioner Mark Hatch presented the main program of the afternoon for the Chamber of Commerce members and guests. Also present in the audience was County Commissioner Daniel Wood III.


Dixie County Commissioner Mark Hatch presents information to people at the Dixie County Chamber Commerce meeting of June 8 at the conference room of the Dixie County Public Library in Cross City. 


Dixie County Commissioner Daniel Wood III listens as his colleague Dixie County Commissioner Mark Hatch lets visitors and guests at the Dixie County Chamber Commerce meeting of June 8 learn about what this part of the government does.

     The Dixie County Board of County Commissioners is comprised of Chairman Jamie Storey, Vice Chairman Jody Stephenson, and commissioner Hatch, Wood and David Osteen.
     Commissioner Hatch let the people know about some of the places where this part of the Dixie County government helps residents and visitors in this county.
Storm Water Task Force
     Hatch let the listeners know about the Dixie County Storm Water Task Force. This group has worked to overcome the issues that caused flooding in Dixie County, including from ditches and culverts that were not maintained prior to the most recent disastrous floods in the years.
     As of Thursday (June 8), the county has cleared and improved 58.2 miles of ditches, Hatch said. Dixie County is 750 square miles in size. 
     He also spoke about roads, emergency services, development of property, the public library, solid waste, information and technology and the County Manager’s Office.
Transportation
     The Dixie County Road Department maintains in excess of 200 miles of lime rock roads and more than 500 miles of roads in all five districts of the county, Hatch said.
     Paving projects that are in the design or constructions phases include County Road 340, adding 10 feet of shoulders; CR 351 (Horseshoe Road) resurfacing and drainage upgrades; CR 349 to the community of Suwannee resurfacing with drainage upgrades; Palm Drive; Hal Chairs; Chavous Road with shoulders and safety signs; and Willow Hole with safety and signs.
Emergency Services
     Dixie County Emergency Services’ Emergency Medical Services Division and Fire Department, with the Community Paramedicine program in place, responded to 5,234 calls last year, Hatch said.
     From Jan. 1 to June 6, DCES responded to 2,886 calls, which puts the department on track to reach 5,800 responses in 2023, Hatch said. Two years ago, DCES responded to 4,800 calls, Hatch said, which shows an average increase of 500 more calls each year for the past two years.
     The county is growing, he said.
     Dixie County has bought two more firetrucks, Commissioner Hatch said, at a cost of about $1 million each. 
     By Dixie County putting in money, the state government came through with more funding to help DCES, Hatch said.
     The Emergency Operations Center is receiving significant new construction added to it, Hatch said. Another fire station is being added on Chavous Road in a very heavily populated area, he said.
     Also, the fire station in Old Town, where the helipad is located, has been improved by construction there, Hatch said.
     The county is getting a new tanker truck for the DCES, too, Hatch said.
     By spending $2 million, he said, Dixie County obtained $10 million worth of equipment and fire stations thanks to funding from the Florida Legislature.
     Keeping the explanation shorter than sometimes when DCES Chief Darian Brown speaks about it, Commissioner Hatch said the ISO ratings for insurance companies have dropped, which means the county showed the evaluators reason for fire insurance rates to drop a bit for Dixie County property owners.
Building Department
     The Dixie County Building Department, Hatch said, is the heart and soul of economic development.
     In Fiscal Year 2020-2021, Oct. 1, 2020, through Sept. 30, 2021, there were 1,201 building permits, Hatch said.
     In Fiscal Year 2021-2022, Oct. 1, 2021, through Sept. 30, 2022, there were 1,660 permits.
     From Oct. 1, 2022, through June 6, there were 1,211 permits, which indicates the continued growth in Dixie County is increasing and the final tally of permits for the current fiscal year is projected to again exceed the previous year, Hatch said.
     Code enforcement is a new aspect of Dixie County government. So far, there have been 174 cases with 110 active cases continuing, and 64 of them are closed now, Hatch said.
Public Library
     The Dixie County Public Library with its main branch in Cross City continues to provide a meeting place for several events as well as to offer books, public computers and space for people to enjoy reading.
     There is monthly traffic at the library of 4,000 people, Hatch said.
     Among the many programs, he said, is the summer reading program for children.
     The County Commission is striving to fix roof leaks, he said, so that Librarian Cindy Bellot and staff members do not need to continue putting buckets under areas that lead. She has mentioned to the County Commission, too, that roof tiles have dropped due to the leaks and rain has damaged books.
Solid Waste
     During his discussion of the Road Department, Commissioner Hatch mentioned that litterbugs plague the county, just as they do elsewhere in Florida. The continual trouble or distress caused by people who practice the deviant behavior of littering is being dealt with by law enforcement and others.
     As for the garbage in Dixie County, there is a change in the management and leadership of the Dixie County Solid Waste Department.
     Former Director Michael “Preacher” Latson, after 23 years in service, has retired.
     Tim Johnson will be overseeing the department, Hatch said.
     Another change is the switch from many, many dumpsters to the installation of compactors. Levy County uses compactors at three satellite solid waste transfer sites in that county, and Levy County has a huge compactor at the central waste transfer site between Bronson and Williston, which has served the residents and visitors of that county well.
     The new compactors at Dixie County sites, Hatch said, cost between $41,000 to $42,000. The County Commission has budgeted to buy one during this fiscal year, he said.
     Half of the 25 dumpsters at one site can be replaced by one trash compactor, Hatch said. This will save the county money, by being able to haul the solid waste from the site to Aucilla, where the county takes its solid waste for final disposal.
     There are nine roll-off sites maintained by the Dixie County Solid Waste Department.
     The county commissioner shared with listeners the cost of garbage disposal in Dixie County.
     In the month of May, the county produced 1,202 tons at $43 per ton which equals $51,686 for one month of tipping fees, Hatch said. The commissioner said this does not include the cost of loading it onto a trailer and other transportation costs.
     Last year, the county was averaging between $35,000 and $40,000 a month in tipping fees, he said.
     With the May figure hovering near $52,000, that tells the county leaders that there are new residents in the county.
     He said this shows, too, that code enforcement is working as people are cleaning sites that are in violation, and they are hauling that garbage to the dump.
     The commissioner mentioned that the Solid Waste Department must keep in compliance with the Florida Department of Environmental Regulation for its construction and debris sites.
Information and Technology
     Dixie County’s new Information and Technology Department, led by Scott Pendarvis, is succeeding in moving the county government along in the 21st Century.
     Dixie County IT Department Director Pendarvis has created a county network, Commissioner Hatch said, where departments within the county can better communicate via the computerized system.
     As a result, Hatch said, Dixie County purchased its own server and there is a room in the courthouse where this is maintained with all of the climate control needed to make the equipment last longer and function correctly.
     One significant advantage to the county government from Pendarvis’s work is improved telephone service at a lower cost, Hatch said. For instance, there were six lines going into the County Manager’s Office and now there are three lines that serve people equal to or better than by having six lines.
     By upgrading the telephone system, Hatch said, Dixie County now saves more than $50,000 annually.
     Commissioner Hatch mentioned that the County Commission is continuing to work on cybersecurity matters, although he cannot share details about that due to the need to keep the county’s interest secure.
     Commissioner Hatch mentioned the upcoming start of improved Internet service to Dixie County thanks to Fiber By Central Florida, where the Dixie County Chamber of Commerce heard from Central Florida Electric Cooperative General Manager Denny George and CFEC and FBCF spokeswoman Madison Redd.
     He added, though, that some people in Dixie County already are being served by the fiberoptics system in the area of the county in the Jena area that is part of the Tri-County Electric Cooperative.
     Jena is an unincorporated community on the southern shore of the Steinhatchee River in Dixie County.
     The people served by the Tri-County Electric Cooperative fiber service are very happy with it, Hatch said, and he sees the Fiber By Central Florida offerings for residential and business interests in Dixie County as being an excellent improvement planned for the very near future.
County Manager’s Office
     Dixie County Manager Duane Cannon follows in the footsteps of other great county managers including the late Leon Arthur Bellot Jr. (June 11, 1951-Feb. 23, 2019), Mike Cassidy and Timothy “Tim” Alexander.
     Right now, Cannon manages and oversees more than $38 million in 16 active grants that help Dixie County, Hatch said. This county’s budget is funded much more by grants than by ad valorem property taxes.
     Dixie County Manager Cannon oversees all County Commission departments with 131 employees, Commissioner Hatch noted.
     Cannon assures, too, Hatch said that the commissioners who budget for expenses are able to pay for the products and services they plan to buy as the County Commission performs its duty to serve the people of Dixie County.
     “We can’t spend something we don’t have,” Hatch said, “… end of the story. The county budget is no different than your personal budget.
     “You’ve got to stay within your budget,” Hatch added. “You’ve got to know what you’ve got, and what you can spend.”
     The commissioner mentioned that the Dixie County Commission is working more now, too, with the leaders of city government in Cross City.
      The leaders in city and county government in Dixie County, Hatch said, are all willing to help one another. Communicating with each other is vital, he intimated as he spoke about both interests seeking state funding help with fire protection.
     County and city leaders have planned a meeting next week on June 14, he added, for economic growth – including water and sewer improvements.
     Hatch mentioned there are four key sites located in Dixie County that are prime for development to help economic growth right now, he said.
     In closing, the commissioner mentioned that the current annual revenue from ad valorem property taxes is $6 million. This is part of the County Commission’s budget that is $42 million – which includes the $38 million in grants.
     Grant revenue and state shared revenue have definite places where those funds are allowed to be spent, he said.
     And while some people on social media may spread gossip about low pay for Dixie County workers, Hatch said, the truth is that the average annual cost for one county worker here is $38,064.
     The proverbial bottom line for Dixie County, like all of Florida, is that it is continuing to see an increase in population.

Murderer gets 45 years
for double homicide and armed burglary
State Attorney Kramer’s Office
shares more sentencing news

Convicted and sentenced murderer Phillip David Wheeler is seen in this 2017 GCSO mugshot. Wheeler is 43 years old now.
Mugshot By GCSO

By Jeff M. Hardison © June 8, 2023 at 9:15 p.m.
     GAINESVILLE – A man who killed two people in Gilchrist County made a plea-negotiated agreement to be sentenced to 45 years in the Florida Department of Corrections prison system, according to information in a  June 8 press release from Darry Lloyd, chief of investigations and director of witness management, in the Office of Eighth Judicial Circuit State Attorney Brian S. Kramer.     Lloyd provided insight about some other recent sentences in addition to the double-homicide case.
     On May 30, Assistant State Attorney Glenn Bryan led the prosecution team in the cases of the State versus Phillip David Wheeler, who is now 43 years old.
     Based on facts and evidence from the Gilchrist County Sheriff’s Office (GCSO) and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement Investigation (FDLE), Assistant State Attorney Kramer was able to prosecute the defendant for the 2015 murders and armed burglary, according to records.
     Back when Eighth Judicial Circuit State Attorney William “Bill” Cervone was in office, before he retired, he announced grand jury results for criminal cases in Gilchrist County, including on April 28, 2017, when the Gilchrist County Spring Term Grand Jury returned a True Bill indicting Wheeler for murder.
     That 2017 indictment came after a 2015 set of crimes, according to records.
     On Nov. 5, 2015, the GCSO found Kevin Lawrence Staley, 49, and Kevin Justice Staley, 19, dead, according to records.
     Based on an extensive investigation by FDLE agents, Wheeler was identified as a suspect. Wheeler was subsequently taken into custody on May 11, 2017, according to records, and as noted was later indicted for murder.
     During jury selection, Lloyd noted in a June 8 press release, Wheeler offered to change his original “not guilty” plea.
     After consultation with the victim’s family, the state presented the plea-negotiated agreement to the Court, Lloyd said.
     The Honorable Eighth Judicial Circuit Court Judge David Kreider presided over the hearing, according to records.
     Wheeler was sentenced to 45 years in prison for the second degree murder of Kevin Lawrence Staley, and 45 years in prison for second degree murder of Kevin Justice Staley, and 45 years for armed burglary, Lloyd said.
     All of the sentences are to run concurrent with 25-year minimum mandatory guidelines under Florida’s 10-20-Life statute, Lloyd said.
     By the concurrent sentences, the convicted killer and armed burglar is serving time in prison on all three convictions at the same time – 45 years.
     Chief Lloyd of the State Attorney’s Office offered more information about court cases, as noted below.
 
Career Criminals Convicted
     On May 25, Assistant State Attorney Daniel Ley led the prosecution team in racketeering prosecution case of diesel theft in multiple jurisdictions.
     Based on a Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Division of Law Enforcement investigation in conjunction with an investigation by the Gainesville Police Department on March 16, 2022, officers made contact with Alfredo Marrero Quintana, 44, Jose Luis Verano Hernandez, 50, and Leonardo Jesus Cordero Valdes, 78, at the Circle K 1515 N. Main St.
     Florida Department of Agriculture Law Enforcement investigators had been conducting a multi-county investigation into gasoline theft.
     Department of Agriculture Investigators made contact with Hernandez, Valdes and Quintana, who were in possession of three different pickup trucks with modified gas tanks, or bladders, and fuel dispenser pulsar devices that override gas flow at pumps and skimmers.
     The trio were observed stealing thousands of gallons of gasoline between Sumter and Hillsborough counties, and Alachua County. The Department of Agriculture investigation with the assistance of Gainesville Police allowed the state to file formal charges during a evidentiary hearing.
     The Honorable Eighth Judicial Circuit Court Judge James Colaw presided over the hearing on May 25, and he accepted the open plea to the court.
     Marrero was sentenced to 48 months in prison followed by two years of supervised probation.
     Verano, sentenced to 40 months in prison followed by two years of supervised probation.
     Cordero was sentenced to 60 months of supervised probation.

Habitual Felon Sentenced To 30 Years In Prison
For Violently Attacking His Lawyer
     On June 4, Eighth Judicial Circuit State Attorney Bryan S. Kramer prosecuted the case of State versus Obadiah Dillard.
     On Nov. 15, 2022, Obadiah Savoy Dillard, 45, arrested based on an Alachua County Sheriff’s Office investigation.
     Dillard, while waiting for court proceedings to begin in a separate case, violently attacked his defense counsel. During the one-day trial, State Attorney Kramer presented two witnesses and the video of the attack.
     After six minutes of deliberation, an Alachua County Jury found Dillard guilty of aggravated battery with great bodily harm.
     The Honorable Eighth Judicial Circuit Court Judge David Kreider presided over the hearing. Dillard was sentenced to 30 years in prison.

Three towns start process
for regional water
and wastewater cooperative
Flag Day program set for June 14

Chief Professional Engineer Leroy Marshall of the Suwannee River Water Management’s Office of Agriculture and Environmental Projects provides the Levy County Board of County Commissioners with insight into the process for the towns of Bronson, Otter Creek and Cedar Key to establish their regional water and wastewater cooperative.
 
Story and Photos
By Jeff M. Hardison © June 7, 2023 at 2:15 p.m.
     BRONSON – A hope and dream of new regional water and wastewater services for three Levy County municipalities showed more of a glimmer of starting after a resolution unanimously passed by the Town Council of Bronson on Monday night (June 5).
     The next morning (Tuesday, June 6), the Levy County Board of County Commissioners heard a detailed and accurate report of this vision for the future.
     On a more definite and immediate event that is noted to be scheduled to happen, a Flag Day program was announced for Flag Day (June 14, Wednesday) starting at 9 a.m. at the Levy County Government Center, 310 School St., in Bronson. The Levy County Board of County Commissioners are inviting veterans, active-duty military and the general public to attend. There will be a flag-retiring ceremony, too.
     The keynote speaker announced on June 6 for this event will be Olajuwon White, the director of veteran services for Levy County.
     Meanwhile, looking years beyond the 2023 Flag Day event, regional water and wastewater services may be in the offing for the municipalities of the Town of Bronson, the Town of Otter Creek and the City of Cedar Key.
     Chief Professional Engineer Leroy Marshall of the Suwannee River Water Management’s (SRWMD) Office of Agriculture and Environmental Projects provided the Levy County Board of County Commissioners with insight into the process for the towns of Bronson, Otter Creek and Cedar Key to establish their regional water and wastewater cooperative.
     He spoke about the history of these possible regional water and wastewater projects, as well steps expected in the coming months to continue this venture.
     In December of 2021, Marshall said, individuals from the towns of Bronson, Cedar Key and Otter Creek contacted the SRWMD and everyone met in Bronson to discuss the possibility of an entity to oversee regional water and wastewater services for the three municipalities.
     The SRWMD funded a feasibility study completed by the Water Science Institute (WSI), he said, to determine if a regional system was the best choice.
     The WSI works to assist public and private organizations engaged in a wide range of water issues. Through innovative scientific research, education, and advocacy WSI promotes sustainable approaches towards improving water quality.
     The feasibility study concluded in September of 2022, Marshall said.
     Even before the study was completed, the Cedar Key Water and Sewer District, which is a separate entity from the Cedar Key City Council, submitted an application in December of 2021, Marshall said, to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection for an Alternative Water Supply (AWS) grant.
     That entity submitted the application “early” because those applications are annual and the deadline is in December.
     WSI concluded, Marshall said, that a regional system with a water plant near Bronson with pipelines to Bronson, Otter Creek and Cedar Key – as well as potential taps for Sumner Rosewood and other places along the pipeline would be one project.
     WSI further concluded in its study that a system to pump sewage from Cedar Key to Bronson, where there would be a new wastewater treatment plant – to make that water able to be used  as reclaimed water for irrigation or even treated to the point for reentry into the ground to replenish the drinking water supply, would be feasible, Marshall said.
     The cost estimate for the water supply project was listed at $36 million, Marshall said. The estimated cost for the wastewater project was $69 million, he said.
     The SRWMD engineer told the County Commission about grants and processes so that the municipalities, once they created their cooperative to accept funding, where both projects would be paid for without causing the municipalities to put in money.
     Before that can happen, he said a number of times, the three municipalities need to get together to form the Waccasassa Water and Wastewater Cooperative (W3C).
     Bronson Mayor Robert Partin said Bronson and Otter Creek leaders have approved resolutions to create the W3C and Cedar Key City Council is anticipated to complete its action before the month is over.
     Further discussion showed Marshall said he hopes the state and federal government funding sources will work together to make these projects begin. As of this minute, it is a concept that has activity moving forward.


Bronson Mayor Robert Partin (at the podium and wearing a checkered shirt)  invites the Levy County government to join the municipal governments in the regional water and wastewater cooperative. The unincorporated communities of Rosewood and Sumner are among the places potentially served if pipes are put in the ground between Bronson and Cedar Key.
  
     Bronson Mayor Robert Partin invited the Levy County government to join the municipal governments in the regional water and wastewater cooperative. People in the unincorporated communities of Rosewood and Sumner are among those folks potentially served if pipes are put in the ground between Bronson and Cedar Key. Of course, those people who currently use well water and septic tanks would see monthly bills for water and wastewater services if the county agreed to go forward with that development.
     One chronic complainer from the Williston area said she does not want the county to become involved with this venture.
     Commission Chairman Brooks thanked her for her input. There has been nothing put on the agenda for the County Commission to consider entering into this separate government entity for water and wastewater service – yet.
     A similar venture is named the Nature Coast Regional Water Authority. It is comprised of the City of Fanning Springs,
the Town of Bell, Dixie County and Gilchrist County.
     It notes that “The Nature Coast Rural Water Authority was initiated by Gilchrist County School Board, BOCC, and Cities. It was expanded to include Fanning Springs, Cross City, Dixie, and Levy Counties. Chiefland opted out for a lack of understanding. It was created for Grant Opportunities and funding and also to promote economic growth. The Nature Coast Regional Water Authority is currently working on expanding sewer possibilities.”
     In one project, the Nature Coast Regional Water Authority created a pipeline and system to provide water to customers in the Town of Cross City for monthly fees.
 

DeSantis issues update
on Operation Lone Star
Florida keeps helping Texas
Information Provided
By Governor’s Press Office
Sent June 6, 2023 at 4:37 p.m.
Published June 6, 2023 at 8 p.m.
     BROWNSVILLE, TEXAS — Today (Tuesday, June 6), Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis announced that Florida teams have made contact with more than 5,800 undocumented migrants and assisted the Texas Department of Public Safety with more than 190 arrests including felony charges for human smuggling, drug paraphernalia, unlawful carrying of weapons, and a suspect with a capital murder warrant.
     In addition, Florida officials have assisted with the apprehension of an MS-13 gang member currently on the United States Terror Watch List.
     The following Florida state resources remain deployed in Texas supporting the mass migration crisis at the United States’ southern border:
Florida National Guard
     ● Over 400 personnel continue to support the Texas Military Department with service members to assist with the mass migration on the southern border. Mission sets include assisting with static observation points, roving patrols, and engineer assistance with obstacle improvement.
Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE)
     ● Thirty FDLE special agents and nine support team members remain deployed assisting Texas law enforcement agencies investigating criminal activity along the border associated with human trafficking and drug and weapon smuggling.  
     ● Florida law enforcement agencies continue to assist with more than 190 arrests on charges including human smuggling, drug paraphernalia charges, unlawful carrying of a weapon, money laundering, and a suspect with a capital murder warrant.
     ● FDLE agents have assisted the Texas Department of Public Safety with the arrests of violent felony suspects including gang members. Suspects were arrested on various Texas state charges including human smuggling, burglary, firearms, smuggling of persons, and possession of controlled substance. As part of the arrests, FDLE agents helped seize cocaine, methamphetamine, marijuana, drug paraphernalia, firearms, and boxes of ammunition.
Florida Department of Highway Safety
and Motor Vehicles
Florida Highway Patrol (FHP)
     ● 101 FHP troopers are deployed in support of Operation Lone Star. 
     ● FHP Troopers have been involved in nearly 700 traffic stops, eight commercial vehicle inspections, and seven pursuits. These efforts have resulted in nine narcotic-related charges along with 17 federal and/or state warrant arrest on fugitives as well as the seizure of two firearms. Throughout the course of their duties, troopers have identified gang members and recovered undocumented migrants concealed within vehicles.
     ● FHP has been involved with seven human smuggling/human trafficking arrests and nearly 100 overall arrests.
     ● Troopers responded to an area on the Unites States border due to reports of gunfire occurring in Mexico. Troopers provided perimeter security for a local school in the immediate area. Additionally, troopers have responded and assisted with an attempted suicide, aggravated battery with a firearm, and an incident that resulted in a battery on a law enforcement officer in the United States Border Patrol. 
     ● FHP has deployed unmanned aircraft on 215 occasions while facilitating multiple missions and assisted in identifying the location of 652 undocumented migrants.
     ● FHP has detained two suspects involved in smuggling people into the United States, both of which have been turned over to the United States Border Patrol. Troopers have had encounters with multiple undocumented migrants originating from China, Haiti, Honduras, Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Venezuela, Columbia, El Salvador, and Middle Eastern countries. Through the weekend, FHP encountered African, Cuban, Bolivian, and Iranian undocumented migrants who were detained and turned over to U.S. Border Patrol.
     ● Troopers participated in a traffic stop which led to seizing an estimated $500,000 of currency. During a joint task force investigation with FDLE and Texas state and federal partners, cash, coins, one kilo of cocaine, and one pound of marijuana were seized (estimated total value of $263,675). One undocumented migrant contact was identified as an MS-13 gang member who was also on the Terrorist Watch List.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)
     ● A third wave of 20 sworn FWC Officers and two mechanics deployed to Texas to assist federal, state, and local agencies with response efforts.
     ● FWC’s law enforcement assets will provide assistance to responding federal, state, county, and municipal agencies with border security, information gathering, humanitarian response, search and rescue efforts, officer safety and assistance, emergency medical services, and other similar duties.
     ● FWC officers are partnering with Texas law enforcement to conduct high-visibility water patrols along the border.
FWC officers are conducting land-based border patrol activities in conjunction with Texas law enforcement.
     ● Ten shallow draft vessels and two airboats capable of navigating variable depth river environments are being used by FWC and Texas law enforcement to assist federal, state, and local efforts.
     ● Twenty four-wheel-drive patrol vehicles are in use by FWC officers.

Complex non-tropical
low pressure area appears

This map from the National Hurricane Center shows the area in the Atlantic Ocean that is the only area of interest at the moment in the Atlantic

By Jeff M. Hardison © June 5, 2023 at 4:30 p.m.
     MIAMI – The tropical weather outlook for the North Atlantic, Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico shows one area of interest, according to a 2 p.m. forecast on Monday (June 5).     The Tropical Weather Outlook from the National Weather Service’s National Hurricane Center (NHC) in Miami for the North Atlantic, Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico shows a disorganized group of showers and thunderstorms and gale-force winds over the northeastern Atlantic Ocean between the Azores and Canary Islands.
     This weather is associated with a complex non-tropical area of low pressure, according to the forecast by NHC forecaster John Cangialosi, a senior hurricane specialist at NOAA’S NHC, and United States Navy U.S. Navy Hurricane Specialist Dave Roberts. 
     This system could acquire some subtropical characteristics during the next couple of days while it moves little. By late in the week, however, the system is expected to move northeastward over cooler waters ending its chances of subtropical development.
     For instant, current local weather, click on the link to The Weather Bug on the HOME PAGE.
     The names for storms in 2023 are Arlene, Bret, Cindy, Don, Emily, Franklin, Gert, Harold, Idalia, Jose, Katia, Lee, Margot, Nigel, Ophelia, Philippe, Rina, Sean, Tammy, Vince and Whitney.
     HardisonInk.com plans to cover the 2023 Hurricane Season as well as it has for the past 13 years. This year, the two sponsors for hurricane coverage are HardisonInk.com and Hinote Electric -- as noted in the advertisement on the LEISURE PAGE.

Nature Video
Bunnies, Raccoons And A Wasp

To see a one-minute video of seven clips of bunnies, raccoons and a wasp and to read more about it, click on the photo on the CALENDAR PAGE.
Photo By Jeff M. Hardison © May 29, 2023 at 7 a.m.
All Rights Reserved

Quilt shop opens in downtown Chiefland


(Top Photo) With big scissors in hand, Kim Hart (left) prepares to cut the ribbon on Thursday afternoon (May 24) with help from her granddaughter Ella Hart (center) and her daughter, and Ella’s aunt Shawna Hart.
(Bottom Photo) The cut ribbon falls toward the floor as the ribbon-cutting ceremony heralds the opening of the new shop in downtown Chiefland, just south of West Park Avenue, also known as Martin Luther King Jr. Road, on the west side of Main Street, also known as U.S. Highway 19. To see the story and more photos, please see the BUSINESS PAGE below the story about the big grant to local communities to improve Internet service. (Please remember to scroll down on pages.)
Photo By Jeff M. Hardison © May 26, 2023 at 8 a.m.
All Rights Reserved
 

Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday
starts Saturday and goes to June 9
Information Provided
By Levy County Emergency Management Director John MacDonald
and
The Florida Department of Revenue
Published May 25, 2023 at 9 p.m.
     TALLAHASSEE – The Florida Department of Revenue has issued a Tax Information Publication dated May 24 to show the 2023 Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holidays of May 27 through June 9, and Aug. 26 through Sept. 8.     During these sales tax holiday periods, tax is not due on the retail sale of eligible items related to disaster preparedness.
     Among the many items listed are batteries, candles, flashlights, coolers, ice chests, bleach, laundry detergent and much more.
     This year, common household supplies such as toilet paper, paper towels and soap are also included in the list of items eligible to be purchased tax-free.  
     Levy County Emergency Management Director John MacDonald urges everyone to build a disaster preparedness kit to last at least a minimum of 72 hours.
     There are specific details related to this sales tax relief.  
     To see the whole Tax Information Publication from the state government regarding tax relief, go to the website by clicking HERE.

Watermelon Time 2023

A wonderful visit to a roadside watermelon stand on Wednesday (May 24) provided a photo opportunity. In this photo are (from left) Cason Tillis, 1, Emmy Morgan, 2, and Bricen Clemons, 10, on  May 24. Kelsi Morgan, Emmy’s mother and one of Melba Tillis’ granddaughters, was the chief assistant in this photo shoot. It’s watermelon harvesting time in the Tri-County Area of Levy, Dixie and Gilchrist counties. This famous stand in Levy County started its annual service to the public recently. The young Mr. Clemons has been helping Maurice Corbin for several years at the stand now. This year, Corbin (not pictured) heralds his tenth consecutive year at the stand, which is renowned for high quality watermelons and cantaloupes year after year. This covered stand is on U.S. Alt. 27 between Bronson and Levyville, near Levy County Road 124. Melba Tillis and her family sell the delicious, fresh watermelons grown by Murray Tillis and Terry Tillis, Melba’s sons. Watermelons are selling at $7 each there this summer. These watermelons are grown in Levy County, and they are delicious, sweet and juicy. Homegrown cantaloupes and other vegetables, including cucumbers and squash are there at the stand on occasion, and sweet corn may be available there, too, as are big jalapeño peppers. The best way to find out what is available at any moment is to drop by and check it out. 
To see the May 28, 2020 photo and caption of Bricen Clemons at the stand, click HERE.
To see the June 12, 2021 photo of Maurice Corbin at the watermelon stand, click HERE.
Photo by Jeff M. Hardison © May 24, 2023 at 8:30 a.m.
All Rights Reserved

Watermelon Time 2016

There are some stories, photos and videos that are in the archives of the daily news website. There are some that are not in the archives. Bill Killborn (1937-2015) wrote the first codes to create the website. While the late Mr. Killborn accommodated the transition to the next phase of the website during his last months on Earth, some previously stored material on the first set of archives from 2010 through 2015 went off of the Internet in 2015, although that material exists on various hard drives elsewhere. Looking at material stored in places other than Internet, this photo and caption from 2016 were found. Seen here, is the late Drucilla ‘Dru’ Tillis Clemons (Sept. 15, 1961-Sept. 24, 2018), the oldest daughter of Melba Tillis, as she stands next to some seedless watermelons on May 20, 2016. Dru Clemons is Bricen Clemons’ late grandmother. The Tillis family raises great crops of watermelon, cantaloupes, corn, peanuts and other vegetables. This little covered stand is an excellent place to buy watermelons and other vegetables. 
Photo by Jeff M. Hardison © May 20, 2016 @ 3:57 p.m.
All Rights Reserved

Gilchrist County to spend
up to $250,000 in lawsuit fight
By Jeff M. Hardison © May 23, 2023 at 3:15 p.m.
     TRENTON –When four members of the Gilchrist County Board of County Commissioners voted March 6 to deny a request from a dairy, it created a situation leading the dairy to sue the county for relief, according to records.
     During the May 15 regular Gilchrist County Commission meeting, the commissioners voted 4-0 to retain the service of attorney Patrice Boyes, Esq., to represent the county in defense of the government’s choice against granting the dairy’s request.
     Patrice Boyes, Esq., practices in land use, environmental and property law, and commercial leasing and real estate transactions. She has represented development interests, property owners, institutional clients, business owners and local governments for the past 21 years.
     Gilchrist County Attorney David Miller “Duke” Lang Jr. requested the County Commission to retain attorney Boyes to represent Gilchrist County in the litigation with North Florida Dairies, LLC.
     Commission Vice Chairman Darrell Smith completed the form showing whey he chose not to vote, as required by Florida law, due to a possible pecuniary gain. This conflict of interest is the reason a board member cannot vote, when normally Florida law currently requires these elected officials to vote.
     On a motion by Commissioner Tommy Langford, seconded by
Commissioner Sharon A. Langford, to initiate a contract with Boyes -- with an approved budget for litigation costs not to exceed $250,000.00, commission members Tommy Langford, Sharon Langford, Bill Martin and Kenrick Thomas voted in favor of the Langford-Langford motion.
     As part of the motion, the County Commission agreed to County Attorney Lang’s advice to waive the bidding requirement due to the prior knowledge of this attorney and time constraints. 
     This lawsuit happened after a request by North Florida Dairies of Bell to place pipes across Gilchrist County Road 232, and across Southwest 50th Avenue at Southwest 10th Street, to transfer wastewater for use on crops was denied March 6.
     Several people showed up at that County Commission meeting to protest against the dairy’s request.
     Just like the May 15 vote to deny both crossings, Vice Chairman Smith said he cannot vote due to a possible conflict of interest when this matter was first broached on March 6.
     Stephen Smith, speaking on behalf of the dairy, and Mike Holloway, P.E., a consulting engineer, provided insight concerning recent improvements to the dairy.
     Stephen Smith said the dairy is under new ownership as of January 2023. The new owner’s goals, he said, are to rotate crops and work closely with the neighbors.
     The dairyman shared with listeners that North Florida Dairies of Bell employes just over 100 people. It paid $189,000 in ad valorem property taxes to Gilchrist County last year, he added.
     Without these pipelines, he said early in the meeting, the dairy must then use manure tankers to transport the wastewater – which it is using to fertilize crops naturally.
     That meeting in March included sharing a lot of information about why this change was being sought by the dairy owner and management.
     To see the previously published story, when the County Commission rejected the dairy’s request, click HERE.

CFO Jimmy Theo Patronis Jr.
keeps records hidden from public view
By Jeff M. Hardison © May 23, 2023 at 7:15 a.m.
     TALLAHASSEE – Information sent from the Florida Fire Marshal’s Office on May 23 shows suspected arson cases in Chiefland and Dixie County, allegedly, are still open and ongoing, despite one suspect being jailed a month ago.     The Office of Open Government for Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Theo Patronis Jr. announced on May 15 that although one man was arrested April 25 as a suspected arsonist in Dixie County two arson cases remain open for investigation in that county and in the City of Chiefland.
     Patronis’ Office of Open Government acknowledged receipt of at least one request for public records about the swarm of agents and investigators from the Florida Fire Marshal’s Office (Bureau of Fire; Arson & Explosives) who swept into Chiefland on that fateful Tuesday morning, causing an evacuation of a few neighboring residents away from the address of 405 N.E. Second St. in the City of Chiefland.
     George Henry Hartshorn, a resident of that Chiefland address, had just turned 61 years old on April 21, according to records. The Dixie County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) arrested him on April 25 for the other arson he is suspected of having committed at 134 S.E. 155th Ave. in Dixie County on that same day.
     To read the April 25 story -- Fire marshal mum on alleged explosives, click HERE.
     To read the April 26 story -- DCSO catches suspected arsonist from Chiefland; Resident of Chiefland house incident arrested in Dixie County, click HERE.
     To read the April 27 story -- More details released about suspected arsonist; Press secretary says some records sealed, click HERE.
     The Petronis Open Government Office staff members noted that the Fire Marshal’s Bureau of Fire; Arson & Explosives has two cases it continues to investigate involving Hartshorn.
     “Currently, the status of the investigations conducted by the Bureau of Fire; Arson & Explosives Investigations are OPEN. Section 633.112, Florida Statutes, makes investigation records confidential and exempt until the investigation is complete or ceases to be active,” it was noted in a May 15 email, which was electronically signed “Sincerely, Office of Open Government, 
Florida Department of Financial Services.”
     According to Chapter 119 Section 011 of the 2022 Florida Statutes, “Criminal investigative information shall be considered ‘active’ as long as it is related to an ongoing investigation which is continuing with a reasonable, good faith anticipation of securing an arrest or prosecution in the foreseeable future.”
     Under Florida law, any record made or received in connection with the transaction of official business is a public record subject to disclosure, unless there is a specific statutory exemption making that record, or the information contained therein, confidential or exempt.
     Petronis is a Republican who has been the Florida Chief Financial Officer since 2017, according to records. Another state elected office he held was as a member of the Florida House of Representatives from 2006 until 2014.
 

Dixie County prepares
for hurricane season
DCES Chief Brown need not retire

DCES Division Chief of Emergency Management Scott Garner asks if there are any questions from the people at the conference.

Story and Photos
By Jeff M. Hardison © May 19, 2023 at 8:15 p.m.
     CROSS CITY – Dixie County Emergency Services (DCES) Division Chief of Emergency Management Scott Garner provided about 50 people with a comprehensive review of Dixie County’s preparedness for Hurricane Season 2023, which starts June and ends Nov. 30.
     Chief Garner and DCES Chief of Chiefs Darian Brown were among the speakers who covered all of the realms for preparation, response, recovery and mitigation from hurricanes and other disasters in Dixie County.
     Before adjourning to a wonderful barbecue lunch, Chief Brown thanked everyone for attending. He said there have been times when only he, Chief Garner and the county manager have shown up to assure the county is ready for hurricane season.
     Members from every county department as well as from Cross City were thoroughly versed in what to do in the event of a hurricane hitting Dixie County.


DCES Chief Darian Brown speaks about parking changes due to upcoming construction at the Dixie County Emergency Operations Center in Cross City.

     With the county starting its improvements for expanding the Dixie County Emergency Operations Center in Cross City, Chief Brown let all of the listeners know that parking enjoyed on Friday may be different during hurricane season.
      Fencing may be placed across the current front entrance to the parking lot. Parking will move to the sides and rear of the EOC, as new construction starts on the future fire station, he said.
     There will be an area of the EOC that will be off-limits to most folks during the day-to-day operations as construction proceeds, Chief Brown said. 
     DCES Chief Brown answered a question for HardisonInk.com in regard to his possible retirement.
     Thanks to the Florida Legislature this year, Chief Brown will not be required to retire for another three years. He had mentioned earlier in the year that retirement was in his not-too-distant future.
     The change in DROP requirements allows him to work longer as part of the Florida Retirement System (FRS) Pension Plan.
     The Deferred Retirement Option Program (DROP) provides the worker with an alternative method for payment of his or her retirement benefits for a specified and limited period if the worker is an eligible (FRS) Pension Plan member.
     The DROP Participation Chart page allows the employee to determine his or her maximum DROP termination date, based on his or her DROP beginning date.
     With the new legislation, the chief found his date was extended by three years beyond the couple of hundred days he had to go, prior to the new law.
     The lunch was barbecue pulled pork, brisket, baked beans, coleslaw, a roll and a brownie, with iced tea or water.


One of about 50 barbecue lunches served on Friday afternoon is seen here just before a visiting journalist enjoys the meal in Cross City.

     For all of the residents and visitors in Florida, it is extremely important to have two plans ready for quick activation in regard to hurricanes.
     Each household should create a disaster preparedness kit.
     The single best website to visit is https://www.floridadisaster.org/planprepare/.
     When a hurricane is forecast only days away, it is too late to start visiting this site. The best recommendation is to go there now and work diligently to prepare two ways – to stay, or to evacuate.

Patronis announces arson cases
remain open in Chiefland and Dixie Co.

A female state law enforcement officer carries a pizza box on April 25, some distance from the scene of a fire earlier that day in Chiefland. Other officers who investigate arson are seen here, including one in a white shirt, who may be among the leaders. None of them wanted to speak with the press, even to say their names or titles.

Story and Photo
By Jeff M. Hardison © May 18, 2023 at 6:30 a.m.
All Rights Reserved
     TALLAHASSEE – The Office of Open Government for Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Theo Patronis Jr. announced on May 15 that although one man was arrested April 25 as a suspected arsonist in Dixie County two arson cases remain open for investigation in that county and in the City of Chiefland.     Patronis’ Office of Open Government acknowledged receipt of at least one request for public records about the swarm of agents and investigators from the Florida Fire Marshal’s Office (Bureau of Fire; Arson & Explosives) who swept into Chiefland on that fateful Tuesday morning, causing an evacuation of a few neighboring residents away from the address of 405 N.E. Second St. in the City of Chiefland.
     George Henry Hartshorn, a resident of that Chiefland address, had just turned 61 years old on April 21, according to records. The Dixie County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) arrested him on April 25 for the other arson he is suspected of having committed at 134 S.E. 155th Ave. in Dixie County on that same day.
     To read the April 25 story -- Fire marshal mum on alleged explosives, click HERE.
     To read the April 26 story -- DCSO catches suspected arsonist from Chiefland; Resident of Chiefland house incident arrested in Dixie County, click HERE.
     To read the April 27 story -- More details released about suspected arsonist; Press secretary says some records sealed, click HERE.
     The Petronis Open Government Office staff members noted that the Fire Marshal’s Bureau of Fire; Arson & Explosives has two cases it continues to investigate involving Hartshorn.
     “Currently, the status of the investigations conducted by the Bureau of Fire; Arson & Explosives Investigations are OPEN. Section 633.112, Florida Statutes, makes investigation records confidential and exempt until the investigation is complete or ceases to be active,” it was noted in a May 15 email, which was electronically signed “Sincerely, Office of Open Government, 
Florida Department of Financial Services.”
     The workers in Petronis’ office further noted, “Please feel free to contact us at a later date, when the investigation’s status is closed.” And the staff members noted, “At that time, we will review your request, and if applicable, forward you an invoice for the estimated cost of the completion of your request.”
     (Although there are two investigations, the office worker noted the singular possessive.)
     According to Chapter 119 Section 011 of the 2022 Florida Statutes, “Criminal investigative information shall be considered ‘active’ as long as it is related to an ongoing investigation which is continuing with a reasonable, good faith anticipation of securing an arrest or prosecution in the foreseeable future.”
     Under Florida law, any record made or received in connection with the transaction of official business is a public record subject to disclosure, unless there is a specific statutory exemption making that record, or the information contained therein, confidential or exempt.

Other Responses To Arsons
     Chiefland Police Chief Scott Anderson was the first law enforcement officer at the scene of the fire at 405 N.E. Second St. in the City of Chiefland on April 25. 
     He had responded to a report of that house being on fire. He entered the house to save any people inside. There were no people, but Chief Anderson found what looked like an incendiary device that had not gone off yet.
     Members of Chiefland Fire Rescue extinguished the blaze.
     Chief Anderson contacted the Florida Fire Marshal’s Office and gave it the information he had. Meanwhile, that day the Dixie County Sheriff’s Office found the suspected arsonist and put him in jail.
     Records from the DCSO were quickly and easily available after the arrest of the suspected arsonist. As for the Chiefland Police Department, Chief Anderson said it was a case for the people from Petronis’ Office.
     The CPD provided traffic control at the scene for the several hours it took for the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office Bomb Squad to clear the house by removing one homemade firebomb. The CPD also evacuated nearby residents. The Levy County Sheriff’s Office had at least one person on the scene for its support of the case in Chiefland.
     Levy County Department of Public Safety (also known as Levy County Fire Rescue) had at least one ambulance and crew and one battalion chief at the Chiefland fire. Chiefland Fire Rescue also helped barricade the neighborhood from passersby or residents for several hours, as did the LCDPS.
     As for the state law enforcement investigators from the Florida Bureau of Fire; Arson & Explosives, those men and women are still investigating the two cases, according to Petronis’ Office of Open Government.
     Petronis is a 51-year-old Republican who has been the Florida Chief Financial Officer since 2017, according to records. Another state elected office he held was as a member of the Florida House of Representatives from 2006 until 2014.
     Petronis continues to state that the investigations of fires allegedly started in Chiefland and Dixie County by Hartshorn on April 25 continue to be under investigation, “with a reasonable, good faith anticipation of securing an arrest or prosecution in the foreseeable future,” even though Hartshorn was arrested in Dixie County that same day – several hours before the Chiefland neighborhood was released from the veiled threat of terror as streets were barricaded around the house at 405 N.E. Second St. in Chiefland on April 25.
 

Click on the ad above
to be notified via email
about Instant News Alerts.