Meet the two candidates vying for the Calhoun County Commissioner district 3 seat. Here are their responses to our questions:
NICK STONE
1. What is one change you plan to make if elected county commissioner?
That would have to be the land development map. In a lot of areas in Calhoun County, you must have 10 acres or more to develop it. For instance, one local couple that owned several acres decided to sell five acres of a large parcel to someone. They were not allowed to do this since it did not meet the minimum 10-acre rule for that area. When you shut down developing properties like that, you shut down all your revenue. Everybody gets a piece of the pie normally, such as builders, framers, sheetrockers, well drillers and septic tank men, and it’s normally Calhoun County people that do the work. The money circulates right here in Calhoun County.
2. As you have been out campaigning, what is the biggest concern you have heard from voters?
The biggest thing I’ve heard from people is not having knowledge of what’s happening in Calhoun County. They have no knowledge of what’s going on before it’s already gone on and then it’s too late. Another concern has been land taxes and the fact that local volunteer fire departments are not being supported like they should.
3. What sets you apart from your opponent?
I don’t really know my opponent and his background to really separate the two of us, but I think my age and experiences have prepared me for this position. My parents and grandparents have owned businesses all my life, and I now have an interest in my wife’s business. Through this, I’ve learned the importance of budgeting. I’ve got experience in all different areas of business - from building to surveying to well drilling. I have extensive knowledge of county government.
LEE SHELTON
1. What is one change you plan to make if elected county commissioner?
Better maintenance for the roads. I feel like the county has done good getting rock on these roads, but they act like it’s a cure. They want to wait a year at a time. I’ve had people tell me it’s been over a year since a road has been graded or maintained.
2. As you have been out campaigning, what is the biggest concern you have heard from voters?
The county has had an opportunity to probably drop the millage rate. I’ve had many people ask if the rate can be lowered. One of the biggest concerns people say to me is the spending. People want the spending to slow down some.
3. What sets you apart from your opponent?
I think my experience in road work and dealing with the public more. I do a lot of road construction building new roads. I’ve had a lot more experience dealing with people and maybe budgeting. I’m not in the office on the computer, but I’m on the road and I help keep an eye on the budget. I have experience dealing with the public and looking after a budget.
Top Stories - Topics from October, 2012
NEWS ALERT: Q & A With County Commissioner District 1 Candidates
The County Record is pleased to continue our interview series with Calhoun County candidates. Here are the questions and answers from our interview with those seeking the county commissioner post for district 1:
LEE LEE BROWN
1. What is one change you plan to make if elected county commissioner?
I would love to make easier access for people to come to county commission meetings by discussing with district 1 and county voters what time is better. Some people have told me it is almost impossible to get off work, do homework with kids and get to the county commission meeting. If you’ve got questions and concerns, the county commissioners should make whatever efforts to allow you to be there. That’s who is putting us in there - the voters.
2. As you have been out campaigning, what is the biggest concern you have heard from voters?
I started on the outside working in and most of the people have been concerned about water runoff. I had one lady call me and she showed me pictures of runoff. She lives right beside a county road and the water was absolutely right up under her house. The culverts looked too small for the runoff. The culverts were full of trash. Her yard had trenches in it. The water runoff was eroding up under her house. She was just one end of the county and the other end of the county had the same issues. At one house on the other end, water had eroded up under the house.
3. What sets you apart from your opponents?
Basically, the number one thing is I truly, truly care about the people of Calhoun County everywhere, from one end to the other. I’m a true believer, if you don’t care for people, how can you represent people?
JAMES "JUNIOR" GROVER
1. What is one change you plan to make if elected county commissioner?
The comp plan for the county that requires 10 acres to build a house on is silly. We need to change that comp plan. It’s hard for a kid getting out of school, getting a job and buying 10 acres of land to build a house, they just can’t do it.
2. As you have been out campaigning, what is the biggest concern you have heard from voters?
The biggest concern I’ve heard everywhere I’ve been is the county commissioners are not taking control of the board.
3. What sets you apart from your opponents?
Experience. I’ve been in business - sales, finance and management - for the last 40 years, including real estate, insurance and auto sales.
JERRY GUILFORD
1. What is one change you plan to make if elected county commissioner?
I like the transparency that’s never been before. We’ve never had transparency like we will have if I’m elected. It’s your business and your right to know anytime. My interest is for small business tax breaks to businesses that show an interest to come into Calhoun County to create jobs, jobs, jobs.
2. As you have been out campaigning, what is the biggest concern you have heard from voters?
People want to know if their property taxes are going to remain where they are or are they going to be brought down to where the market’s at. People want to know why this tax rate is still where it’s at.
3. What sets you apart from your opponents?
I served on the first planning and zoning committee and saw what a disaster that was going to be for the land owners in this county. I’ve worked with county government on issues before. I have a love for people who come to the board meetings with their issues. It’s our job to help them.
Watch for more candidate interviews in the next few days!
LEE LEE BROWN
1. What is one change you plan to make if elected county commissioner?
I would love to make easier access for people to come to county commission meetings by discussing with district 1 and county voters what time is better. Some people have told me it is almost impossible to get off work, do homework with kids and get to the county commission meeting. If you’ve got questions and concerns, the county commissioners should make whatever efforts to allow you to be there. That’s who is putting us in there - the voters.
2. As you have been out campaigning, what is the biggest concern you have heard from voters?
I started on the outside working in and most of the people have been concerned about water runoff. I had one lady call me and she showed me pictures of runoff. She lives right beside a county road and the water was absolutely right up under her house. The culverts looked too small for the runoff. The culverts were full of trash. Her yard had trenches in it. The water runoff was eroding up under her house. She was just one end of the county and the other end of the county had the same issues. At one house on the other end, water had eroded up under the house.
3. What sets you apart from your opponents?
Basically, the number one thing is I truly, truly care about the people of Calhoun County everywhere, from one end to the other. I’m a true believer, if you don’t care for people, how can you represent people?
JAMES "JUNIOR" GROVER
1. What is one change you plan to make if elected county commissioner?
The comp plan for the county that requires 10 acres to build a house on is silly. We need to change that comp plan. It’s hard for a kid getting out of school, getting a job and buying 10 acres of land to build a house, they just can’t do it.
2. As you have been out campaigning, what is the biggest concern you have heard from voters?
The biggest concern I’ve heard everywhere I’ve been is the county commissioners are not taking control of the board.
3. What sets you apart from your opponents?
Experience. I’ve been in business - sales, finance and management - for the last 40 years, including real estate, insurance and auto sales.
JERRY GUILFORD
1. What is one change you plan to make if elected county commissioner?
I like the transparency that’s never been before. We’ve never had transparency like we will have if I’m elected. It’s your business and your right to know anytime. My interest is for small business tax breaks to businesses that show an interest to come into Calhoun County to create jobs, jobs, jobs.
2. As you have been out campaigning, what is the biggest concern you have heard from voters?
People want to know if their property taxes are going to remain where they are or are they going to be brought down to where the market’s at. People want to know why this tax rate is still where it’s at.
3. What sets you apart from your opponents?
I served on the first planning and zoning committee and saw what a disaster that was going to be for the land owners in this county. I’ve worked with county government on issues before. I have a love for people who come to the board meetings with their issues. It’s our job to help them.
Watch for more candidate interviews in the next few days!
Goat Day Celebration
Saturday marked the 26th Annual Goat Day celebration in Calhoun County.
[Full Story »]
NEWS ALERT: Final Two Questions With Sheriff Candidates
Here are the final two questions in our interview with Calhoun County Sheriff candidates. Watch for more candidate interviews later this week!
4. The role of sheriff requires diverse responsibilities, ranging from operating 911, administering the civil process, running the county jail, plus maintaining law and order throughout the county. What specific experience or expertise do you have that has prepared you for these roles?
PONEY ADAMS: I have 31 years of administrative experience owning and operating my own business.
JIMMY BAGGETT: I have a little over 21 years combined law enforcement experience. I’ve worked in a criminal forensic unit in charge of some of the most violent criminals in the State of Florida. I’m in charge of ingress and degress of the buildings. I’m in charge of court orders. When different agencies throughout the State of Florida bring offenders in, I’m in charge of when they enter or leave that building, whether to another city or town, I have to make note of what they are wearing, what time they leave and return, transport, and all the details that must be entered in a database. I review all court orders and make sure they’re signed by the judges.
For eight and a half years, I’ve been Chief of Police for the Town of Altha. I’ve been in charge of criminal investigations, investigate traffic accidents, I’m E-Agent certified, Automatic Trans Management System certified, DAVIDS System (Driver And Vehicle Information Database) certified, and I’m certified in traffic crash reporting. I’ve also successfully completed several drug classes and been certified in how to properly maintain an evidence room and evidence logs. I maintain a budget for the Altha Police Department and I supervise other officers.
KEN FUTCH: The one thing that separates me from most of the candidates is my overall experience. Having been in law enforcement for nearly 30 years, I’ve had the opportunity to work in almost every aspect a Sheriff’s Office requires. This includes corrections, patrol, administration, investigations and, most recently, jail administrator. I am the one candidate that has a formal education as a graduate from a law enforcement management program at North Carolina State University.
EARL HUNT: I feel like I can work the budget because when I was a county commissioner, the board set all the budget and tried to fund their budget.
GLENN KIMBREL: I’ve got 35 years of experience. I started at the bottom and worked my way to the top and held all positions from the bottom to the top which is investigating crimes, managing patrol officers, and ultimately chief of police where I ran and fully managed a 16-member department which includes budgeting. I also managed the fire department for the city, animal control, code enforcement. I know that when you receive a budget at the beginning of the budget year, that budget has to last 12 months. You have to manage that budget on a weekly basis to make sure you have funds in the 12th month. And I have that experience.
TOMASI MATAUTIA: With my 23 years with the Department of Corrections, being in a supervisory position, I’m able to make decisions anytime an incident occurs, whether it’s minor or major. Being certified in law enforcement since 1992, I have worked under the latest sheriffs, Buddy Smith and David Tatum, as a reserve deputy. I believe the knowledge and experience I have learned from the law enforcement family would give me the ability serve the people of Calhoun County. Any complaint I can listen to and make decisions to better serve their needs and provide protection of the community.
ADAM TERRY: I’ve been at the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office for 20 years. Although I have not been the administrator of the jail or administering the money, I have fleet maintenance experience, and that has to be within a budget and I always take care of that. I’ve been around this jail being run and I am certified in corrections and law enforcement. I do have a large amount of supervisory experience over the law enforcement division. As far as the administrative part, there are people in this agency that are highly qualified and very good at taking care of the administrative part of this business. I will have to rely on them to help me learn everything I need to know about the administrative part of the Sheriff’s Office.
5. What sets you apart from your opponents?
PONEY ADAMS: Common sense.
JIMMY BAGGETT: I was born and raised here in Calhoun County. My heart is of Calhoun County. I’m running because I don’t just work here in Calhoun County, I live here, also, and I want to make a positive impact on the citizens of Calhoun County and to be recognized as the best Sheriff’s Department that’s ever been in Calhoun County. That’s my goal.
KEN FUTCH: The biggest thing is the willingness to identify the need for change. As your sheriff, I find it necessary to recognize when things fall short of the expectations of the people. The Sheriff’s Office belongs to the community. With my experience and maturity, I will work hard to make this Sheriff’s Office something the people are proud of.
EARL HUNT: All of them can do the job, but I feel like I would be available. I think I can run the Sheriff’s Office and be available as much as anybody.
GLENN KIMBREL: Experience. I have been involved in investigating all types of criminal activities whether it be the theft of a child’s bicycle or a death investigation. I’ve spent many years investigating drug activity. Also, it goes back to experience - 35 years. I started as a volunteer and ended up as chief of police managing a 16-person department. I do realize a police department does not perform all the tasks a county sheriff’s office does. There will be things I have to learn if elected, but I’m familiar with the things I do need to learn and it won’t take me long to learn them, such as seizing of property for banks, levying on property, the sale of property on the courthouse steps. Those are things I have to learn about. But, again, it won’t take me long to learn.
TOMASI MATAUTIA: I’m a family man and a close leader in my family that helps guide and bring my family together. That will help me serve people with the honesty and compassion I have, the respect I have for people in this community. I believe I will be the better candidate to serve in the Sheriff’s Office where people in our community can be served and treated in a way everybody needs to be treated with respect, honesty and integrity. I would also like to bring our Sheriff’s Office to a high level of respect and integrity to the law enforcement community. The staff under my supervision will be able to communicate well and perform their duties in a way the community will be proud of.
ADAM TERRY: I’ve got 20 years experience and I have not been in an office. I have been out in the communities, working the road, answering calls. I’m very aware of what’s going on in our communities. I know the people, the people know me. That will enable me to have the confidence of the people from day one.
4. The role of sheriff requires diverse responsibilities, ranging from operating 911, administering the civil process, running the county jail, plus maintaining law and order throughout the county. What specific experience or expertise do you have that has prepared you for these roles?
PONEY ADAMS: I have 31 years of administrative experience owning and operating my own business.
JIMMY BAGGETT: I have a little over 21 years combined law enforcement experience. I’ve worked in a criminal forensic unit in charge of some of the most violent criminals in the State of Florida. I’m in charge of ingress and degress of the buildings. I’m in charge of court orders. When different agencies throughout the State of Florida bring offenders in, I’m in charge of when they enter or leave that building, whether to another city or town, I have to make note of what they are wearing, what time they leave and return, transport, and all the details that must be entered in a database. I review all court orders and make sure they’re signed by the judges.
For eight and a half years, I’ve been Chief of Police for the Town of Altha. I’ve been in charge of criminal investigations, investigate traffic accidents, I’m E-Agent certified, Automatic Trans Management System certified, DAVIDS System (Driver And Vehicle Information Database) certified, and I’m certified in traffic crash reporting. I’ve also successfully completed several drug classes and been certified in how to properly maintain an evidence room and evidence logs. I maintain a budget for the Altha Police Department and I supervise other officers.
KEN FUTCH: The one thing that separates me from most of the candidates is my overall experience. Having been in law enforcement for nearly 30 years, I’ve had the opportunity to work in almost every aspect a Sheriff’s Office requires. This includes corrections, patrol, administration, investigations and, most recently, jail administrator. I am the one candidate that has a formal education as a graduate from a law enforcement management program at North Carolina State University.
EARL HUNT: I feel like I can work the budget because when I was a county commissioner, the board set all the budget and tried to fund their budget.
GLENN KIMBREL: I’ve got 35 years of experience. I started at the bottom and worked my way to the top and held all positions from the bottom to the top which is investigating crimes, managing patrol officers, and ultimately chief of police where I ran and fully managed a 16-member department which includes budgeting. I also managed the fire department for the city, animal control, code enforcement. I know that when you receive a budget at the beginning of the budget year, that budget has to last 12 months. You have to manage that budget on a weekly basis to make sure you have funds in the 12th month. And I have that experience.
TOMASI MATAUTIA: With my 23 years with the Department of Corrections, being in a supervisory position, I’m able to make decisions anytime an incident occurs, whether it’s minor or major. Being certified in law enforcement since 1992, I have worked under the latest sheriffs, Buddy Smith and David Tatum, as a reserve deputy. I believe the knowledge and experience I have learned from the law enforcement family would give me the ability serve the people of Calhoun County. Any complaint I can listen to and make decisions to better serve their needs and provide protection of the community.
ADAM TERRY: I’ve been at the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office for 20 years. Although I have not been the administrator of the jail or administering the money, I have fleet maintenance experience, and that has to be within a budget and I always take care of that. I’ve been around this jail being run and I am certified in corrections and law enforcement. I do have a large amount of supervisory experience over the law enforcement division. As far as the administrative part, there are people in this agency that are highly qualified and very good at taking care of the administrative part of this business. I will have to rely on them to help me learn everything I need to know about the administrative part of the Sheriff’s Office.
5. What sets you apart from your opponents?
PONEY ADAMS: Common sense.
JIMMY BAGGETT: I was born and raised here in Calhoun County. My heart is of Calhoun County. I’m running because I don’t just work here in Calhoun County, I live here, also, and I want to make a positive impact on the citizens of Calhoun County and to be recognized as the best Sheriff’s Department that’s ever been in Calhoun County. That’s my goal.
KEN FUTCH: The biggest thing is the willingness to identify the need for change. As your sheriff, I find it necessary to recognize when things fall short of the expectations of the people. The Sheriff’s Office belongs to the community. With my experience and maturity, I will work hard to make this Sheriff’s Office something the people are proud of.
EARL HUNT: All of them can do the job, but I feel like I would be available. I think I can run the Sheriff’s Office and be available as much as anybody.
GLENN KIMBREL: Experience. I have been involved in investigating all types of criminal activities whether it be the theft of a child’s bicycle or a death investigation. I’ve spent many years investigating drug activity. Also, it goes back to experience - 35 years. I started as a volunteer and ended up as chief of police managing a 16-person department. I do realize a police department does not perform all the tasks a county sheriff’s office does. There will be things I have to learn if elected, but I’m familiar with the things I do need to learn and it won’t take me long to learn them, such as seizing of property for banks, levying on property, the sale of property on the courthouse steps. Those are things I have to learn about. But, again, it won’t take me long to learn.
TOMASI MATAUTIA: I’m a family man and a close leader in my family that helps guide and bring my family together. That will help me serve people with the honesty and compassion I have, the respect I have for people in this community. I believe I will be the better candidate to serve in the Sheriff’s Office where people in our community can be served and treated in a way everybody needs to be treated with respect, honesty and integrity. I would also like to bring our Sheriff’s Office to a high level of respect and integrity to the law enforcement community. The staff under my supervision will be able to communicate well and perform their duties in a way the community will be proud of.
ADAM TERRY: I’ve got 20 years experience and I have not been in an office. I have been out in the communities, working the road, answering calls. I’m very aware of what’s going on in our communities. I know the people, the people know me. That will enable me to have the confidence of the people from day one.
NEWS ALERT: Q & A With Sheriff Candidates - Question 3
Our interview with County County sheriff candidates continues with question number 3.
3. What is something you think is not working at the Sheriff’s Office and what is your plan for improvement?
PONEY ADAMS: What is not working is the same stuff I’ve been going through for the past 23 years: Investigating old homicide cases. My plan is to do that - investigate old homicide cases.
JIMMY BAGGETT: If elected sheriff, I intend to make the sheriff’s department more accessible to the citizens. The sheriff’s department is going to be more accountable to the citizens. Every citizen of Calhoun County is going to be treated with dignity and respect. I intend to have an open door policy. I intend to have a sheriff’s web based site. This website will allow the citizens’ suggestions and concerns to be sent directly to my office. Those suggestions and concerns will be responded to within 48 hours. If a citizen or group of citizens want to speak to me personally, I will be available at all times.
KEN FUTCH: Currently, we have one position budgeted for drug investigations, part of which is paid through grants. Given it’s our number one issue as a community, I find it necessary to increase that number from one to possibly three. Given the current budget situations, rather than ask for new positions, I would simply realign some of my current staff to increase the overall effectiveness of our drug investigations.
EARL HUNT: I feel like we need to listen to concerns of the citizens more than what we’ve done. We need to listen to the citizens more.
GLENN KIMBREL: I think one of the biggest things I will be faced with if elected sheriff of Calhoun County is about providing calls for service on a timely basis. I intend to look through the system and see where most calls are originating from. That’s where I’m going to put my manpower. If we have more than one on duty, obviously I’m going to have them in separate areas of the county. That will improve response time when we do have a call for service.
TOMASI MATAUTIA: Leadership and training are main things I’ve observed that need to be improved so the staff and deputies can perform their duties and for better communication for serving the public.
ADAM TERRY: An area I would like to strengthen is our school resource program. I believe we need to step up the program to do more to prevent these children from getting on dope.
3. What is something you think is not working at the Sheriff’s Office and what is your plan for improvement?
PONEY ADAMS: What is not working is the same stuff I’ve been going through for the past 23 years: Investigating old homicide cases. My plan is to do that - investigate old homicide cases.
JIMMY BAGGETT: If elected sheriff, I intend to make the sheriff’s department more accessible to the citizens. The sheriff’s department is going to be more accountable to the citizens. Every citizen of Calhoun County is going to be treated with dignity and respect. I intend to have an open door policy. I intend to have a sheriff’s web based site. This website will allow the citizens’ suggestions and concerns to be sent directly to my office. Those suggestions and concerns will be responded to within 48 hours. If a citizen or group of citizens want to speak to me personally, I will be available at all times.
KEN FUTCH: Currently, we have one position budgeted for drug investigations, part of which is paid through grants. Given it’s our number one issue as a community, I find it necessary to increase that number from one to possibly three. Given the current budget situations, rather than ask for new positions, I would simply realign some of my current staff to increase the overall effectiveness of our drug investigations.
EARL HUNT: I feel like we need to listen to concerns of the citizens more than what we’ve done. We need to listen to the citizens more.
GLENN KIMBREL: I think one of the biggest things I will be faced with if elected sheriff of Calhoun County is about providing calls for service on a timely basis. I intend to look through the system and see where most calls are originating from. That’s where I’m going to put my manpower. If we have more than one on duty, obviously I’m going to have them in separate areas of the county. That will improve response time when we do have a call for service.
TOMASI MATAUTIA: Leadership and training are main things I’ve observed that need to be improved so the staff and deputies can perform their duties and for better communication for serving the public.
ADAM TERRY: An area I would like to strengthen is our school resource program. I believe we need to step up the program to do more to prevent these children from getting on dope.
NEWS ALERT: Candidate Drops Out Of Local Race
Julie Leonard Smith, candidate for Calhoun County School Superintendent, has just dropped out of the race. More details in next week's print edition.
NEWS ALERT: Q & A With Sheriff Candidates - Question 2
This is the second question in our interview series with Calhoun County Sheriff candidates.
QUESTION: Do you plan to operate the county jail? If not, what is your plan for the jail?
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RESPONSES (Candidates listed in reverse alphabetical order today)
ADAM TERRY: It is my belief it would not be cost effective for anybody other than the sheriff to run the jail.
TOMASI MATAUTIA: I would try to maintain and see what we have at the jail. I would like to get our jail to be more involved in housing our own inmates, including females, instead of spreading them out to some of the counties nearby. That would cut down on some of the costs to the Sheriff’s Office. Hopefully, I can try to get some certified female staff to help keep the female inmates in our jail.
GLENN KIMBREL: I do plan to operate the county jail. That is a secure facility. I think it would deem to be important for the chief law enforcement officer of the county to operate the jail for security reasons.
EARL HUNT: I am planning on operating the county jail just like it’s been run and planning on keeping all the employees.
KEN FUTCH: At this point, I see no reason not to maintain the jail under the current umbrella of the sheriff. To avoid any further burden on the taxpayers, it only seems reasonable that the sheriff continue to operate the jail. As your sheriff, it’s important that I maintain a strong working relationship with our other county officials to the extent I would research whether it’s feasible to bring back the female population, as well. Having been a previous jail administrator, I find myself separated from the other candidates, given my working knowledge of the jail.
JIMMY BAGGETT: If I’m elected sheriff, we’re still going to operate the county jail. When citizens of Calhoun County come to visit their loved ones at the Calhoun County Jail, they will be treated with dignity and respect.
PONEY ADAMS: My plan is to get a grant and build a new jail. Have the state prisoners to do the work, grant money to buy the materials and use the 2 to 3 acres behind the courthouse for the site.
QUESTION: Do you plan to operate the county jail? If not, what is your plan for the jail?
.......................................................................................................
RESPONSES (Candidates listed in reverse alphabetical order today)
ADAM TERRY: It is my belief it would not be cost effective for anybody other than the sheriff to run the jail.
TOMASI MATAUTIA: I would try to maintain and see what we have at the jail. I would like to get our jail to be more involved in housing our own inmates, including females, instead of spreading them out to some of the counties nearby. That would cut down on some of the costs to the Sheriff’s Office. Hopefully, I can try to get some certified female staff to help keep the female inmates in our jail.
GLENN KIMBREL: I do plan to operate the county jail. That is a secure facility. I think it would deem to be important for the chief law enforcement officer of the county to operate the jail for security reasons.
EARL HUNT: I am planning on operating the county jail just like it’s been run and planning on keeping all the employees.
KEN FUTCH: At this point, I see no reason not to maintain the jail under the current umbrella of the sheriff. To avoid any further burden on the taxpayers, it only seems reasonable that the sheriff continue to operate the jail. As your sheriff, it’s important that I maintain a strong working relationship with our other county officials to the extent I would research whether it’s feasible to bring back the female population, as well. Having been a previous jail administrator, I find myself separated from the other candidates, given my working knowledge of the jail.
JIMMY BAGGETT: If I’m elected sheriff, we’re still going to operate the county jail. When citizens of Calhoun County come to visit their loved ones at the Calhoun County Jail, they will be treated with dignity and respect.
PONEY ADAMS: My plan is to get a grant and build a new jail. Have the state prisoners to do the work, grant money to buy the materials and use the 2 to 3 acres behind the courthouse for the site.
NEWS ALERT: Bristol Man Accused of Molesting Three Girls
McClellan
News Editor
A Bristol man has been arrested for allegedly molesting three young girls.
Namun Allen McClellan, 28, was taken into custody Thursday on charges of lewd and lascivious molestation.
According to the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office, three juveniles, accompanied by a relative, met with Dep. Nate Jordan and Dep. Jody Hoagland back in August to report McClellan had touched them inappropriately or forced them to perform sexual acts on him. The girls alleged the incidents had been occurring for some time, with the final occurrence at the end of last school year.
The case was turned over to Capt. Mark Mallory. His investigation concluded with the arrest of McClellan this week.
McClellan is being held without bond at the Calhoun County Jail.
NEWS ALERT: Child Pornography Arrest
Roeters
Roeters is a registered sex offender from Michigan and is on probation for failing to register as a sex offender in Florida. In September 2012, FDLE began investigating a cyber tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, which indicated that Roeters uploaded an image file of child pornography to one of Google's servers.
Roeters was booked into the Calhoun County Jail.
Please visit the FDLE Computer Crime Center website to review tips for keeping your children safe online at: www.fdle.state.fl.us/FC3/
NEWS ALERT: Q & A With Sheriff Candidates - Question 1
The County Record is pleased to begin the first round of questions and answers in our candidate interview series. Here's question number 1 in the Calhoun County Sheriff's race:
QUESTION: Describe one new program you plan to begin if elected sheriff?
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RESPONSES (Candidates listed in alphabetical order)
PONEY ADAMS: I want to relocate the Sheriff’s Office. I’m thinking in the courthouse where it would be accessible to handicapped people, as well as everybody else.
JIMMY BAGGETT: I’m going to implement a community policing unit which will allow direct connection between the citizens and local law enforcement officers. This let's us know about what specific issues and concerns are within our communities in Calhoun County. As the sheriff, I will implement and create a youth initiative such as the Explorer Program. This program will be designed to provide our youth with the skills to develop character, self esteem, promote responsibility, encourage high morals, sound judgement and teach them to always strive to be positive role models.
KEN FUTCH: In the past, the Sheriff’s Office has provided a school resource officer who divides his time amongst all of the county schools. Currently, it’s my understanding there is no specific curriculum associated with this position. Given the current environment we live in, I find it necessary that we educate our youth by providing them with materials to help them in their choices as it relates to our illegal drug problem. There are a tremendous amount of resources available through the National Sheriff’s Association, Florida Sheriff’s Association, as well as other non-profit organizations, to assist and provide materials and curriculum towards this effort.
EARL HUNT: We need to have something for the kids, I do know this. I don’t know what all is out there. But we need something for the kids.
GLENN KIMBREL: I want to start a citizens academy. It’s going to include the citizens of the county that may want to come down and see what functions their law enforcement agency performs. In doing so, they may be interested enough to take my class that would allow them to provide a support role in helping me run the Sheriff’s Office. As we know, there’s always limited funds in operating a public office. So I’m looking for volunteer work to help supplement our full-time employees. I intend to start a junior deputy program. What this allows us to do is mentor the young people. It helps us form a bridge between the Sheriff’s Office and the public, which is also covered in the aforementioned program about the citizens academy. My main goal is to gain public support and that will help me better serve the public.
TOMASI MATAUTIA: One thing I’m going to start with is a junior deputy program. I’m pretty involved with the Florida Council on Crime and Delinquency. During activities we’re involved with like Special Olympics, I’ve observed the sheriff’s departments in other counties involving kids with those activities. Another program I’m interested in is getting youth trained in some trade so they can do projects for the senior citizens. That would be something to get them involved and keep them occupied during hours after school.
ADAM TERRY: It is my belief that we need to do more to prevent our children from getting on all drugs, especially to include meth. I want to do a program and I will have to work with schools. I’m not wanting to put an extra task on the teachers, but I will need to present an age appropriate drug prevention program through the schools at least once each semester to students. In that program, I also intend to cover texting and driving, alcohol and tobacco.
QUESTION: Describe one new program you plan to begin if elected sheriff?
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RESPONSES (Candidates listed in alphabetical order)
PONEY ADAMS: I want to relocate the Sheriff’s Office. I’m thinking in the courthouse where it would be accessible to handicapped people, as well as everybody else.
JIMMY BAGGETT: I’m going to implement a community policing unit which will allow direct connection between the citizens and local law enforcement officers. This let's us know about what specific issues and concerns are within our communities in Calhoun County. As the sheriff, I will implement and create a youth initiative such as the Explorer Program. This program will be designed to provide our youth with the skills to develop character, self esteem, promote responsibility, encourage high morals, sound judgement and teach them to always strive to be positive role models.
KEN FUTCH: In the past, the Sheriff’s Office has provided a school resource officer who divides his time amongst all of the county schools. Currently, it’s my understanding there is no specific curriculum associated with this position. Given the current environment we live in, I find it necessary that we educate our youth by providing them with materials to help them in their choices as it relates to our illegal drug problem. There are a tremendous amount of resources available through the National Sheriff’s Association, Florida Sheriff’s Association, as well as other non-profit organizations, to assist and provide materials and curriculum towards this effort.
EARL HUNT: We need to have something for the kids, I do know this. I don’t know what all is out there. But we need something for the kids.
GLENN KIMBREL: I want to start a citizens academy. It’s going to include the citizens of the county that may want to come down and see what functions their law enforcement agency performs. In doing so, they may be interested enough to take my class that would allow them to provide a support role in helping me run the Sheriff’s Office. As we know, there’s always limited funds in operating a public office. So I’m looking for volunteer work to help supplement our full-time employees. I intend to start a junior deputy program. What this allows us to do is mentor the young people. It helps us form a bridge between the Sheriff’s Office and the public, which is also covered in the aforementioned program about the citizens academy. My main goal is to gain public support and that will help me better serve the public.
TOMASI MATAUTIA: One thing I’m going to start with is a junior deputy program. I’m pretty involved with the Florida Council on Crime and Delinquency. During activities we’re involved with like Special Olympics, I’ve observed the sheriff’s departments in other counties involving kids with those activities. Another program I’m interested in is getting youth trained in some trade so they can do projects for the senior citizens. That would be something to get them involved and keep them occupied during hours after school.
ADAM TERRY: It is my belief that we need to do more to prevent our children from getting on all drugs, especially to include meth. I want to do a program and I will have to work with schools. I’m not wanting to put an extra task on the teachers, but I will need to present an age appropriate drug prevention program through the schools at least once each semester to students. In that program, I also intend to cover texting and driving, alcohol and tobacco.
Liberty Co. jury awards Odum $607,766 in case v. DOH, King
A Liberty County jury took two hours late Friday night to return a verdict in favor of David Odum in his lawsuit against the Florida Department of Health and Kelly King.
[Full Story »]
NEWS ALERT: Sheriff Candidates Talk Issues
BY KELLI PEACOCK DUNN
News Editor
In an effort to educate and inform local voters, The County Record is beginning a new political series. Our purpose is simple. When candidates speak at open forums and rallies, you hear what they want to tell you. Those forums are great opportunities to meet and greet those seeking office, but we wanted to take it a step further and ask some specific questions so voters could compare where each candidate stands on the issues.
This week, we have been interviewing the seven candidates vying for the Calhoun County sheriff post. We will conclude with interviewing the final candidate today, then begin posting one answer each day for the next five days. All candidates were asked the same five questions. We will continue this series with candidates in all the local races.
Watch for an e-alert and Facebook notice with the first round of questions and answers!
News Editor
In an effort to educate and inform local voters, The County Record is beginning a new political series. Our purpose is simple. When candidates speak at open forums and rallies, you hear what they want to tell you. Those forums are great opportunities to meet and greet those seeking office, but we wanted to take it a step further and ask some specific questions so voters could compare where each candidate stands on the issues.
This week, we have been interviewing the seven candidates vying for the Calhoun County sheriff post. We will conclude with interviewing the final candidate today, then begin posting one answer each day for the next five days. All candidates were asked the same five questions. We will continue this series with candidates in all the local races.
Watch for an e-alert and Facebook notice with the first round of questions and answers!
Mystery still remains after latest probe in McLemore investigation
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement continues to follow up on leads in the death investigation of Tranum McLemore.
[Full Story »]
WEEKEND GUIDE: All That's Hip & Happening In The River Valley
Here's the lowdown on all that's hip and happening in the Apalachicola River Valley this weekend:
HOMECOMING - Friday, Oct. 5 - BHS Homecoming pre-game festivities, 6:25 p.m. featuring the crowning of Mr. & Miss BHS at Bowles Field. Kickoff against Sneads at 7 p.m. Members of the 1973 state championship team and cheerleaders will be honored at halftime. BHS Class of '92 reunion festivities kickoff.
BIKE, RUN, WALK POKER RUN, Saturday, Oct. 6 - A bicycle, walk, run poker run is set for Saturday, Oct. 6, on the Blountstown Greenway Trail from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Entry fee is $10 per person ($5 for children under 10). Cash prizes for top three hands and worst hand. Final poker hand count at 1:30 p.m. with prizes awarded at 2 p.m.
Proceeds will benefit the Blountstown High School Class of 2013 Project Graduation with 10 percent of money raised allocated for prizes. Call Janis at 447-2615 or Kate at 674-2033 for more info.
JELLY & JAM MAKING CLASS - Saturday, Oct. 6 - Jelly & Jam Making Class will be held at the Panhandle Pioneer Settlement Saturday, October 6, from 8 am – 11am CST. Come learn the art of making jelly and jams. There will be a $20 cost for this class. All items needed for this class are supplied. Call 674-2777 to reserve your spot.
CARR-CLARKSVILLE VFD FUNDAISER - Saturday, Oct. 6 - The annual Carr-Clarksville Volunteer Fire Department Fundraiser, Carr School, 5:30 p.m. featuring Boston butts and chicken dinner plates, live entertainment, a cake walk, cake auction and more. Dinner plates $6, whole Boston butts, $25.
HOMECOMING - Friday, Oct. 5 - BHS Homecoming pre-game festivities, 6:25 p.m. featuring the crowning of Mr. & Miss BHS at Bowles Field. Kickoff against Sneads at 7 p.m. Members of the 1973 state championship team and cheerleaders will be honored at halftime. BHS Class of '92 reunion festivities kickoff.
BIKE, RUN, WALK POKER RUN, Saturday, Oct. 6 - A bicycle, walk, run poker run is set for Saturday, Oct. 6, on the Blountstown Greenway Trail from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Entry fee is $10 per person ($5 for children under 10). Cash prizes for top three hands and worst hand. Final poker hand count at 1:30 p.m. with prizes awarded at 2 p.m.
Proceeds will benefit the Blountstown High School Class of 2013 Project Graduation with 10 percent of money raised allocated for prizes. Call Janis at 447-2615 or Kate at 674-2033 for more info.
JELLY & JAM MAKING CLASS - Saturday, Oct. 6 - Jelly & Jam Making Class will be held at the Panhandle Pioneer Settlement Saturday, October 6, from 8 am – 11am CST. Come learn the art of making jelly and jams. There will be a $20 cost for this class. All items needed for this class are supplied. Call 674-2777 to reserve your spot.
CARR-CLARKSVILLE VFD FUNDAISER - Saturday, Oct. 6 - The annual Carr-Clarksville Volunteer Fire Department Fundraiser, Carr School, 5:30 p.m. featuring Boston butts and chicken dinner plates, live entertainment, a cake walk, cake auction and more. Dinner plates $6, whole Boston butts, $25.
Two correctional officers and colonel arrested in “cash for favors” scheme
Three correctional officers have been arrested for allegedly taking money from families and girlfriends of Calhoun Correctional Institution inmates in exchange for protection, special treatment and contraband.
[Full Story »]
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