7/31/08
Youngsters of all ages and from throughout the county took part in a three day basketball camp conducted by Wesley Person at Marianna High School this past weekend. Person, who played four years at Auburn and then spent eleven seasons in the National Basketball Association, provided fundamental instruction in the areas of shooting, dribbling, rebounding, passing, individual defense, teamwork and good sportsmanship. "I’ve been working with kids since 2000 and it is my way of giving back to the kids. Hopefully I can make a difference," said Person. The response from the kids has been all that he could hope for Person added, "The kids have been working real hard, paying attention and asking a lot of questions on how to be better players."
Marianna Head Basketball Coach Travis Blanton was impressed with the camp. "The kids seem to really be responding well. The community needs something like this and it reinforces what the coaches have been teaching these kids at their respective schools," said Blanton. Nadine Long helped organize the camp and has likewise been impressed. "Many camps of this quality would cost anywhere from $300-400 dollars. Wes came in and is doing it for much less ($65) because it is his way of giving back to the community," Long commented.
Person certainly has the credentials for putting on a top notch basketball camp. During his four seasons at Auburn he averaged just over 19 points per game, including 22.2 points per game during his senior season. He was a three time All SEC selection, is the all time 3-point shooter (262 3-pointers made) and is 3rd on the all time scoring chart with 2,066 points. He was a first round draft pick in 1994 by the Phoenix Suns where he spent his first 3 seasons. During his 11 year tenure in the NBA he played for the Phoenix Suns, Cleveland Cavaliers, Memphis Grizzlies, Portland Trail Blazers, Atlanta Hawks, Miami Heat and Denver Nuggets. During those 11 seasons he averaged in double figures a total of 7 seasons.
Person said that he wanted to give back to the community because of individuals who had played big roles in his life growing up. "My older brother and my high school coach (Earl Henderson – Brantley High School in Alabama) were my mentors when I was young. They were both there for me and Coach Henderson is still someone that I talk with regularly. He is one of the reasons I got into this, he has always been there for me and I know how hard it is to be successful," said Person. In addition to Wesley Person, the camp staff included his uncle Malcolm Person who played for the Boston Celtics.
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Green Wave Capture AAU Tournament Championship
7/24/08
With a thrilling buzzer beating shot, the North Florida Co-Op Green Wave captured the 2008 Summer Shoot Out Saturday night at the Milton H. Johnson Health Center. Tre’ Jackson hit two free throws with 6 seconds to play to give the Green Wave a 55-54 lead over the visiting Pensacola Tigers. But the Tigers responded with a bucket with 2 seconds to play. After a timeout, the Green Wave lofted a down court pass to C.J. Blount who then made a layup as the final horn sounded to give them a 57-56 victory. Jackson led the Wave with 21 points, Blount added 13 and Glyen Holmes had 11 points.
"It was another successful Summer Shoot Out" said event coordinator Darold Pope. "And the championship game was a classic, it doesn’t get any better," added Pope. In other action on Saturday the Green Wave had picked up wins against the Boundless Ballers 14U (62-48), Pensacola Tigers (43-31), Harambee Dragons (47-40) and the Boundless Ballers 16U squad. The Harambee Dragons picked up wins over The Boundless Ballers 14U (58-40), Boundless Ballers 16U (48-43). The Pensacola Tigers had wins against the Boundless Ballers 16U (60-45), Boundless Ballers 14U (58-47) and Harambee Dragons.
In action on Friday night at Marianna Middle School the Dragons beat the Green Wave 45-44 as Nixon Alvarado hit a free throw with 6.2 seconds on the game clock to seal the win. The Dragons were led by Marcus Humose with 15 points. The Green Wave was led by C.J. Blount with 17 points. In game two the Green Wave took on the Boundless Ballers and the Ballers took a quick lead. With some hot 3 point shooting the Ballers lead 29-18 at the half. The Green Wave continued to battle through the second half, gradually chipping away at the Ballers lead. With 25 seconds left in the game the Green Wave tied the game on a three pointer from Jackson. They then took a two point lead and hung on for a 57-55 win as Jackson led the squad with 17 points. Marcus Leonard led the Ballers with 17 points as well.
With a thrilling buzzer beating shot, the North Florida Co-Op Green Wave captured the 2008 Summer Shoot Out Saturday night at the Milton H. Johnson Health Center. Tre’ Jackson hit two free throws with 6 seconds to play to give the Green Wave a 55-54 lead over the visiting Pensacola Tigers. But the Tigers responded with a bucket with 2 seconds to play. After a timeout, the Green Wave lofted a down court pass to C.J. Blount who then made a layup as the final horn sounded to give them a 57-56 victory. Jackson led the Wave with 21 points, Blount added 13 and Glyen Holmes had 11 points.
"It was another successful Summer Shoot Out" said event coordinator Darold Pope. "And the championship game was a classic, it doesn’t get any better," added Pope. In other action on Saturday the Green Wave had picked up wins against the Boundless Ballers 14U (62-48), Pensacola Tigers (43-31), Harambee Dragons (47-40) and the Boundless Ballers 16U squad. The Harambee Dragons picked up wins over The Boundless Ballers 14U (58-40), Boundless Ballers 16U (48-43). The Pensacola Tigers had wins against the Boundless Ballers 16U (60-45), Boundless Ballers 14U (58-47) and Harambee Dragons.
In action on Friday night at Marianna Middle School the Dragons beat the Green Wave 45-44 as Nixon Alvarado hit a free throw with 6.2 seconds on the game clock to seal the win. The Dragons were led by Marcus Humose with 15 points. The Green Wave was led by C.J. Blount with 17 points. In game two the Green Wave took on the Boundless Ballers and the Ballers took a quick lead. With some hot 3 point shooting the Ballers lead 29-18 at the half. The Green Wave continued to battle through the second half, gradually chipping away at the Ballers lead. With 25 seconds left in the game the Green Wave tied the game on a three pointer from Jackson. They then took a two point lead and hung on for a 57-55 win as Jackson led the squad with 17 points. Marcus Leonard led the Ballers with 17 points as well.
Marianna “Does It Right” for Dixie Youth Tournament Opening Ceremonies
7/24/08
The opening ceremonies for the Dixie Youth State Tournament were held Friday evening at the New Marianna High School facility. Over five hundred players, coaches, and supporters were in attendance, coming from locations throughout the state. With our own Royce Reagan as Master of Ceremonies, the players were given presentations from several local officials and sports figures, to kick off the five day tournament.
Representing the City of Marianna, City Manager Jim Dean welcomed all of the visitors to our area, and expressed his wishes for a great event. The highlight of the program came when Chipola Head Baseball Coach Jeff Johnson gave an inspiring "pep" talk to the youngsters.
The Marianna Optimist Club was in its usual level of dedicated service as they fed the crowd of over 500 a delicious fish dinner. William Long, club president, stated that over fourteen club members worked to cook and serve the attendees. It took over 200 pounds of fish (thirteen cases), and four hours of cooking to provide the community service. The meal cost the club over $1000, and was paid for from proceeds realized this year from the MERE concession operations. This wonderful, working civic organization is doing a wonderful job in its mission of supporting youth athletic programs in our community.
After the meal, the crowd moved over to the MERE complex for some "fun and games". All of the teams, totaling nineteen teams (ten in the 13 year old division and nine in the 14 year old division), bordered the infield for the opening ceremony, singing of the national anthem, and photo opportunities.
Next they dispersed into three groups for the individual competitions. On one field the "home run derby" was held, where selected sluggers from each team had five pitches thrown for long ball scoring. On another field a target was set up at home plate, and selected players were given three throws from center field to hit the target and score points. On yet another field the speed demons raced for the best time in a sixty yard dash.
It all meshed together into an inspiring, well organized, and entertaining opening ceremony. All of the participants left with heightened spirits, looking forward to the beginning of competition on Saturday.
The opening ceremonies for the Dixie Youth State Tournament were held Friday evening at the New Marianna High School facility. Over five hundred players, coaches, and supporters were in attendance, coming from locations throughout the state. With our own Royce Reagan as Master of Ceremonies, the players were given presentations from several local officials and sports figures, to kick off the five day tournament.
Representing the City of Marianna, City Manager Jim Dean welcomed all of the visitors to our area, and expressed his wishes for a great event. The highlight of the program came when Chipola Head Baseball Coach Jeff Johnson gave an inspiring "pep" talk to the youngsters.
The Marianna Optimist Club was in its usual level of dedicated service as they fed the crowd of over 500 a delicious fish dinner. William Long, club president, stated that over fourteen club members worked to cook and serve the attendees. It took over 200 pounds of fish (thirteen cases), and four hours of cooking to provide the community service. The meal cost the club over $1000, and was paid for from proceeds realized this year from the MERE concession operations. This wonderful, working civic organization is doing a wonderful job in its mission of supporting youth athletic programs in our community.
After the meal, the crowd moved over to the MERE complex for some "fun and games". All of the teams, totaling nineteen teams (ten in the 13 year old division and nine in the 14 year old division), bordered the infield for the opening ceremony, singing of the national anthem, and photo opportunities.
Next they dispersed into three groups for the individual competitions. On one field the "home run derby" was held, where selected sluggers from each team had five pitches thrown for long ball scoring. On another field a target was set up at home plate, and selected players were given three throws from center field to hit the target and score points. On yet another field the speed demons raced for the best time in a sixty yard dash.
It all meshed together into an inspiring, well organized, and entertaining opening ceremony. All of the participants left with heightened spirits, looking forward to the beginning of competition on Saturday.
Marianna All Stars Battle Hard In State Tournament
7/24/08
While they put up a valiant effort, both of the Marianna Dixie Youth All Star teams were eliminated Monday from the State Tournament being held at the MERE Complex. The Dixie Junior Boys won their opening round game on Saturday but then took losses on Sunday and Monday. The Dixie Boys squad dropped their opening round game but came back to pick up a win in game two on Monday morning. They fell however in their second game of the day played on Monday night.
The Dixie Jr. Boys (13 yr. olds) opened up with a 11-1 win in six innings over Okeechobee on Saturday. J.T. Meadows was the hero of the day as he went 4-4 with 4 RBI. Bradley Middleton went the distance on the mound for Marianna and picked up the win. Middleton also had two hits and an RBI to help his own cause and Mason Melvin went 2-3 on the day with 2 RBI. Marianna jumped out to an early 3-0 lead and then led 7-1 after two innings. They added four more runs over the next four innings to post the 10 run win.
On Sunday the Jr. Boys squared off against Poinciana (Kissimmee) and although Marianna posted 8 runs on offense, Poinciana countered with 18 runs to win by the 10 run rule in the sixth inning. After falling behind early 1-0 Marianna rallied to take a 3-1 lead in the bottom of the first inning. Middleton’s sacrifice fly scored Seth Singletary, Taylor Strauss scored on a past ball and Meadows scored on a RBI single by Melvin. Poinciana countered though in the top of the second with 7 runs to take a 7-3 lead. Singletary scored for Marianna in the bottom of the second on a wild pitch and Strauss and Meadows scored on a 2 RBI double by Melvin. Adam DeWitt singled to score Melvin and Marianna had tied the game at 7-7. From there though it was all Poinciana, as they outscored Marianna 11-1 over the last four innings.
Monday’s contest proved to be a heartbreaker as Marianna fell 10-9 to Hiland Park. Middleton singled to score Meadows early on to put Marianna up 1-0 but Hiland Park responded with 7 runs in the bottom of the inning. They plated another run in the third and fourth inning to make it a 9-1 game. In the fifth inning Marianna’s bats heated up as they got back in the game. They managed to come back and tie the game at 9-9 in the sixth inning when Meadows scored on a wild pitch. But Hiland Park managed to get the winning run on an error in the bottom of the seventh inning.
The Dixie Boys (14 yr. olds) opened up on Saturday with a tough 6-0 loss to West Volusia. The game was scoreless through three innings but West Volusia took advantage of an error to plate 3 runs in the bottom of the fourth inning. Marianna had opportunities to score throughout the game but could not muster any runs across the plate and West Volusia added three more runs of the final two innings for the victory.
Marianna bounced back from that loss with a 11-6 win over Vernon on Monday morning. In a game that began in the noonday heat on Monday, it was a back and forth battle for the lead, with Vernon initially taking a 3-1 lead. Marianna tied the game in the third, went ahead in the fifth 6-3, to only have Vernon come charging back with a three run homer that tied the game 6-6. Finally, Marianna took a commanding lead 11-6 behind the relief pitching of Jae Elliot to finally capture the win.
That earned Marianna a chance for a second game on Monday, this one being against Okeechobee. Things started well as Marianna took advantage of several walks and timely hits to jump out to a 6-0 lead. Chris Godwin had a 2 RBI single and Jae Elliott had a RBI single to spark the inning. But Okeechobee caught fire as they plated 3 runs in the first, 2 in the second, 4 in the third and four in the fourth. Marianna managed a run in the fourth as a RBI single from Godwin scored Zac Davis to make it a 13-7 game after four innings. In the fifth inning Okeechobee plated 4 more runs to make the final 17-7.
While they put up a valiant effort, both of the Marianna Dixie Youth All Star teams were eliminated Monday from the State Tournament being held at the MERE Complex. The Dixie Junior Boys won their opening round game on Saturday but then took losses on Sunday and Monday. The Dixie Boys squad dropped their opening round game but came back to pick up a win in game two on Monday morning. They fell however in their second game of the day played on Monday night.
The Dixie Jr. Boys (13 yr. olds) opened up with a 11-1 win in six innings over Okeechobee on Saturday. J.T. Meadows was the hero of the day as he went 4-4 with 4 RBI. Bradley Middleton went the distance on the mound for Marianna and picked up the win. Middleton also had two hits and an RBI to help his own cause and Mason Melvin went 2-3 on the day with 2 RBI. Marianna jumped out to an early 3-0 lead and then led 7-1 after two innings. They added four more runs over the next four innings to post the 10 run win.
On Sunday the Jr. Boys squared off against Poinciana (Kissimmee) and although Marianna posted 8 runs on offense, Poinciana countered with 18 runs to win by the 10 run rule in the sixth inning. After falling behind early 1-0 Marianna rallied to take a 3-1 lead in the bottom of the first inning. Middleton’s sacrifice fly scored Seth Singletary, Taylor Strauss scored on a past ball and Meadows scored on a RBI single by Melvin. Poinciana countered though in the top of the second with 7 runs to take a 7-3 lead. Singletary scored for Marianna in the bottom of the second on a wild pitch and Strauss and Meadows scored on a 2 RBI double by Melvin. Adam DeWitt singled to score Melvin and Marianna had tied the game at 7-7. From there though it was all Poinciana, as they outscored Marianna 11-1 over the last four innings.
Monday’s contest proved to be a heartbreaker as Marianna fell 10-9 to Hiland Park. Middleton singled to score Meadows early on to put Marianna up 1-0 but Hiland Park responded with 7 runs in the bottom of the inning. They plated another run in the third and fourth inning to make it a 9-1 game. In the fifth inning Marianna’s bats heated up as they got back in the game. They managed to come back and tie the game at 9-9 in the sixth inning when Meadows scored on a wild pitch. But Hiland Park managed to get the winning run on an error in the bottom of the seventh inning.
The Dixie Boys (14 yr. olds) opened up on Saturday with a tough 6-0 loss to West Volusia. The game was scoreless through three innings but West Volusia took advantage of an error to plate 3 runs in the bottom of the fourth inning. Marianna had opportunities to score throughout the game but could not muster any runs across the plate and West Volusia added three more runs of the final two innings for the victory.
Marianna bounced back from that loss with a 11-6 win over Vernon on Monday morning. In a game that began in the noonday heat on Monday, it was a back and forth battle for the lead, with Vernon initially taking a 3-1 lead. Marianna tied the game in the third, went ahead in the fifth 6-3, to only have Vernon come charging back with a three run homer that tied the game 6-6. Finally, Marianna took a commanding lead 11-6 behind the relief pitching of Jae Elliot to finally capture the win.
That earned Marianna a chance for a second game on Monday, this one being against Okeechobee. Things started well as Marianna took advantage of several walks and timely hits to jump out to a 6-0 lead. Chris Godwin had a 2 RBI single and Jae Elliott had a RBI single to spark the inning. But Okeechobee caught fire as they plated 3 runs in the first, 2 in the second, 4 in the third and four in the fourth. Marianna managed a run in the fourth as a RBI single from Godwin scored Zac Davis to make it a 13-7 game after four innings. In the fifth inning Okeechobee plated 4 more runs to make the final 17-7.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Chattahoochee and Quincy Battle
7/17/08
The Chattahoochee Red Birds avenged an earlier loss to the Quincy Dodgers by a score of 9-6. This victory moved the Red Birds into a 2nd place tie with the Dodgers in the Southern Division of the Alabama/Georgia/Florida Baseball League.
The game got off to a quick start for the Red Birds as in the first inning Chris Pullen and Matt Neel led off with walks, followed by a single by Catcher Brandon Stidman to score the first run. In the 2nd inning the Dodgers scored two runs on three hits, and led 2 to 1 until the 5th inning when Matt Neel hit a solo home run to tie the game at 2-2.
But the Red Birds were not through dispensing damage in the 5th inning. Stidman drew a walk and Tony Herzog hit his first of two home runs, to give the Birds a 4-2 lead. Still in the barrage of the 5th, following Herzog’s homer, Austin Riano drew a walk that was followed by four straight singles by Tyler White, Gernold Bates, Chris Pullen, and Matt Neel- that put three more runs on the scoreboard and gave the Red Birds a comfortable 7-2 lead at the end of the sixth.
In the 7th inning the Red Birds added two more runs when Stidman walked and Herzog blasted his second homer of the game.
Andy Pace went 6 2/3 innings on the mound for the Red Birds, giving up only 3 earned runs, striking out 3 and walking 3. Jake Wood of Bascom came in for relief in the 6th and pitched expertly until the game was halted in the bottom of the 8th due to an approaching storm.
The Red Birds of Chattahoochee will now play four straight home games, beginning this Sunday, July 20, against the concord Warriors. Play-offs begin August 24.
You are encouraged to come out and support the Red Birds as they complete the last four games of their season at Terrell Field. Admission is free, Tim’s famous peanuts are for sale in the concession stand, the shaved ice snow-cone wagon will be there, free prizes, tailgating is allowed, and you might find out what happened to "Hugo" the human cannonball. What better way is there to spend a Sunday afternoon during the summer.
See you at Terrell Field, home of the Chattahoochee Red Birds!
The Chattahoochee Red Birds avenged an earlier loss to the Quincy Dodgers by a score of 9-6. This victory moved the Red Birds into a 2nd place tie with the Dodgers in the Southern Division of the Alabama/Georgia/Florida Baseball League.
The game got off to a quick start for the Red Birds as in the first inning Chris Pullen and Matt Neel led off with walks, followed by a single by Catcher Brandon Stidman to score the first run. In the 2nd inning the Dodgers scored two runs on three hits, and led 2 to 1 until the 5th inning when Matt Neel hit a solo home run to tie the game at 2-2.
But the Red Birds were not through dispensing damage in the 5th inning. Stidman drew a walk and Tony Herzog hit his first of two home runs, to give the Birds a 4-2 lead. Still in the barrage of the 5th, following Herzog’s homer, Austin Riano drew a walk that was followed by four straight singles by Tyler White, Gernold Bates, Chris Pullen, and Matt Neel- that put three more runs on the scoreboard and gave the Red Birds a comfortable 7-2 lead at the end of the sixth.
In the 7th inning the Red Birds added two more runs when Stidman walked and Herzog blasted his second homer of the game.
Andy Pace went 6 2/3 innings on the mound for the Red Birds, giving up only 3 earned runs, striking out 3 and walking 3. Jake Wood of Bascom came in for relief in the 6th and pitched expertly until the game was halted in the bottom of the 8th due to an approaching storm.
The Red Birds of Chattahoochee will now play four straight home games, beginning this Sunday, July 20, against the concord Warriors. Play-offs begin August 24.
You are encouraged to come out and support the Red Birds as they complete the last four games of their season at Terrell Field. Admission is free, Tim’s famous peanuts are for sale in the concession stand, the shaved ice snow-cone wagon will be there, free prizes, tailgating is allowed, and you might find out what happened to "Hugo" the human cannonball. What better way is there to spend a Sunday afternoon during the summer.
See you at Terrell Field, home of the Chattahoochee Red Birds!
“ENDLESS SUMMER”
7/17/08
You are invited to celebrate the season with Chipola College’s "Endless Summer" dinner and dance, Saturday, Aug. 23.
Just as the Beach Boys’ "Endless Summer" album brings to mind a simpler time with hits like "Surfin’ USA," "Be True to Your School" and "Fun, Fun, Fun," this event will reunite old and young Chipola friends and alumni for a relaxing evening which will benefit the college athletic programs.
Released in 1974, the album "Endless Summer" spent 155 weeks on the Billboard album chart, peaking at #1, and selling over three million copies. Chipola College began in 1947 and has enjoyed more than 60 great years including numerous state and national athletic titles, and thousands of individual success stories among its graduates.
Organizer Robert Trammell, says, "While music has evolved from Big Band to Rock N’ Roll and Hip Hop during Chipola’s 60 years of existence, the bonds and friendships that have been built at this little college have remained constant."
Trammell points to the commitment of alumni and supporters as the key to the college’s success. "Without strong support from our people, Chipola would be unable to perform at the national level," he says.
The Ivey Brothers band will provide the perfect musical backdrop for the occasion. A regional favorite since 1965, their versatile repertoire became well known in the Dothan club scene in the 70’s and 80’s, and a local hit "It’s Not Worth the Pain" in 1978 made the group’s fame complete. The Iveys have played with and backed "The Pointer Sisters," "The Coasters," "Jeannie Pruitt," "Billy Crash Craddock," and "The Platters."
Kermit Davis, Head Basketball Coach at Middle Tennessee State, is the special guest for the event. Davis coached alongside Coach Milton Johnson at Chipola in 1992 and 1993 and served as head coach in 1994. Davis also coached at LSU, Texas A & M, Idaho and Utah State.
Tickets are $50 per person with a social hour at 6:30 p.m. Tables of eight are available for $400. Chipola’s favorite cook Bobby Sims will prepare his famous, mouth-watering barbecue for the dinner.
For ticket information call Lillie Hamil at (850) 718-2375.
You are invited to celebrate the season with Chipola College’s "Endless Summer" dinner and dance, Saturday, Aug. 23.
Just as the Beach Boys’ "Endless Summer" album brings to mind a simpler time with hits like "Surfin’ USA," "Be True to Your School" and "Fun, Fun, Fun," this event will reunite old and young Chipola friends and alumni for a relaxing evening which will benefit the college athletic programs.
Released in 1974, the album "Endless Summer" spent 155 weeks on the Billboard album chart, peaking at #1, and selling over three million copies. Chipola College began in 1947 and has enjoyed more than 60 great years including numerous state and national athletic titles, and thousands of individual success stories among its graduates.
Organizer Robert Trammell, says, "While music has evolved from Big Band to Rock N’ Roll and Hip Hop during Chipola’s 60 years of existence, the bonds and friendships that have been built at this little college have remained constant."
Trammell points to the commitment of alumni and supporters as the key to the college’s success. "Without strong support from our people, Chipola would be unable to perform at the national level," he says.
The Ivey Brothers band will provide the perfect musical backdrop for the occasion. A regional favorite since 1965, their versatile repertoire became well known in the Dothan club scene in the 70’s and 80’s, and a local hit "It’s Not Worth the Pain" in 1978 made the group’s fame complete. The Iveys have played with and backed "The Pointer Sisters," "The Coasters," "Jeannie Pruitt," "Billy Crash Craddock," and "The Platters."
Kermit Davis, Head Basketball Coach at Middle Tennessee State, is the special guest for the event. Davis coached alongside Coach Milton Johnson at Chipola in 1992 and 1993 and served as head coach in 1994. Davis also coached at LSU, Texas A & M, Idaho and Utah State.
Tickets are $50 per person with a social hour at 6:30 p.m. Tables of eight are available for $400. Chipola’s favorite cook Bobby Sims will prepare his famous, mouth-watering barbecue for the dinner.
For ticket information call Lillie Hamil at (850) 718-2375.
State Paddling and Multi-Use Trails Being Updated
7/10/08
By Clint Cox
Marianna was the site of a regional meeting last Wednesday as staff from the Department of Environmental Protection’s Florida Greenways and Trails Office hosted a meeting to discuss the updating of the state’s paddling and multi-use maps. These maps outline opportunities and locations for native Floridians and out of state visitors to paddle, hike, bike or ride horses.
The meeting was held at the Jackson County Agriculture Conference Center and began with Heather Pence giving a power point presentation on the process of updating the state paddling and multi-use trails. The process of updating the maps includes regional meetings throughout the state to solicit input from citizens. They will compile the comments, which can also be sent in via the internet, through July 14th. After that they will finalize the maps and determine future acquisitions needed to enhance the trail systems.
After the power point presentation a question and answer time was provided. Local resident Chad Taylor suggested that the Upper Chipola River Management area, which is managed by the Northwest Florida Water Management District, be added to the maps. Also in attendance was Jackson County Parks and Recycling Director Chuck Hatcher. He spoke on several initiatives by the county, including the improvements at Spring Creek Park, the recent obtaining of the Yancey Bridge park area property and efforts to develop a multi-use trail on the east side of the Chipola River from Citizen’s Lodge Park to Highway 90.
Those wanting to provide comments via the internet can log in at www.floridatrailsnetwork.com.
By Clint Cox
Marianna was the site of a regional meeting last Wednesday as staff from the Department of Environmental Protection’s Florida Greenways and Trails Office hosted a meeting to discuss the updating of the state’s paddling and multi-use maps. These maps outline opportunities and locations for native Floridians and out of state visitors to paddle, hike, bike or ride horses.
The meeting was held at the Jackson County Agriculture Conference Center and began with Heather Pence giving a power point presentation on the process of updating the state paddling and multi-use trails. The process of updating the maps includes regional meetings throughout the state to solicit input from citizens. They will compile the comments, which can also be sent in via the internet, through July 14th. After that they will finalize the maps and determine future acquisitions needed to enhance the trail systems.
After the power point presentation a question and answer time was provided. Local resident Chad Taylor suggested that the Upper Chipola River Management area, which is managed by the Northwest Florida Water Management District, be added to the maps. Also in attendance was Jackson County Parks and Recycling Director Chuck Hatcher. He spoke on several initiatives by the county, including the improvements at Spring Creek Park, the recent obtaining of the Yancey Bridge park area property and efforts to develop a multi-use trail on the east side of the Chipola River from Citizen’s Lodge Park to Highway 90.
Those wanting to provide comments via the internet can log in at www.floridatrailsnetwork.com.
Former Bulldogs Vied For Spot in Olympics
7/10/08
Former Marianna Bulldog basketball and track standout Brandon Roulhac has been making his hometown awfully proud of him. Roulhac earned a spot in the USA Olympic Trials in Eugene, Oregon and in doing so competed for a spot on the U.S. Olympic Triple Jump Team. The team will be competing in this year’s upcoming Summer Olympics to be held in Beijing, China.
On Friday night Roulhac competed in the preliminary rounds which consisted of two flights with 12 jumpers in each flight. Roulhac pulled off a jump 16.54 meters (54 feet 3 ¼ inches), which was good enough to place him in the 5th spot out of the 24 jumpers. The top 12 jumpers advanced to the Finals which were held Sunday evening. The top three finishers in Sunday’s finals would make the Olympic Triple Jump Team. Roulhac jumped well enough (17.16 meters or 56 feet 3 ¾ inches) on Sunday to place himself in third place going into the final round of jumps. Unfortunately two other jumpers passed him and Roulhac finished 5th. While 5th place didn’t get him a spot on the Olympics, knowing that you are the 5th best triple jumper in the nation is not bad either.
Roulhac graduated from Marianna High School in 2002 after capturing a state championship in the triple jump with a jump of 47 and 7 inches. He attended Albany State University on a basketball and track scholarship. At Albany State he won conference titles in the decathlon and the 2005 NCAA Division II championship in the triple jump. He also earned All-American honors in the long jump. Roulhac currently works and trains in Tallahassee and is recently married. He is the son of Yvonne Horne.
Former Marianna Bulldog basketball and track standout Brandon Roulhac has been making his hometown awfully proud of him. Roulhac earned a spot in the USA Olympic Trials in Eugene, Oregon and in doing so competed for a spot on the U.S. Olympic Triple Jump Team. The team will be competing in this year’s upcoming Summer Olympics to be held in Beijing, China.
On Friday night Roulhac competed in the preliminary rounds which consisted of two flights with 12 jumpers in each flight. Roulhac pulled off a jump 16.54 meters (54 feet 3 ¼ inches), which was good enough to place him in the 5th spot out of the 24 jumpers. The top 12 jumpers advanced to the Finals which were held Sunday evening. The top three finishers in Sunday’s finals would make the Olympic Triple Jump Team. Roulhac jumped well enough (17.16 meters or 56 feet 3 ¾ inches) on Sunday to place himself in third place going into the final round of jumps. Unfortunately two other jumpers passed him and Roulhac finished 5th. While 5th place didn’t get him a spot on the Olympics, knowing that you are the 5th best triple jumper in the nation is not bad either.
Roulhac graduated from Marianna High School in 2002 after capturing a state championship in the triple jump with a jump of 47 and 7 inches. He attended Albany State University on a basketball and track scholarship. At Albany State he won conference titles in the decathlon and the 2005 NCAA Division II championship in the triple jump. He also earned All-American honors in the long jump. Roulhac currently works and trains in Tallahassee and is recently married. He is the son of Yvonne Horne.
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Movin’ On Up – Former Indian Hoopster Drafted
7/3/08
By Clint Cox
Former Chipola Indians basketball standout Mike Taylor was recently selected with the 55th pick in the 2008 NBA draft by the Portland Trailblazers. Taylor became the first player from the NBA Development League to be drafted by an NBA team. A member of the 2008 NBA D-League Champion Idaho Stampede, Taylor was then traded to the Los Angeles Clippers for a future second round draft pick.
Taylor was a member of the Chipola basketball teams during the 2004-05 and 2005-06 seasons. He averaged 9.8 points per game and 2.8 assists during his time at Chipola. Taylor helped lead the Indians to two Panhandle Conference Championships, a Region VIII Championship, and NJCAA National Tournament Final Four Appearance, while compiling a 62-8 record. Many Indian fans remember his emotional performance during the 2005 Region VIII Championship game against Tallahassee. Although the Indians lost by 2 points in triple overtime, Taylor will be forever remembered for his performance that night as he knocked down 7 consecutive 3-pointers during a stretch run in the second half.
After leaving Chipola he spent one season at Iowa State where he led the team in scoring (16 ppg), scoring 20 or more points nine times. His season high was 33 points against Minnesota. He left after one season and eventually landed with the Idaho Stampede in the NBA’s Development League. In helping lead the Stampede to a championship he averaged 14.5 ppg, 3.5 rebounds and 4.3 assist as the team’s sixth man. His season high score was 32 points against Tulsa.
Chipola Coach Greg Heiar commented, "I am extremely proud of Mike Taylor and this is a combination of many years of hard work and refocusing his life. It is exciting to see Mike succeed in life and the entire Chipola community wishes him all the best."
By Clint Cox
Former Chipola Indians basketball standout Mike Taylor was recently selected with the 55th pick in the 2008 NBA draft by the Portland Trailblazers. Taylor became the first player from the NBA Development League to be drafted by an NBA team. A member of the 2008 NBA D-League Champion Idaho Stampede, Taylor was then traded to the Los Angeles Clippers for a future second round draft pick.
Taylor was a member of the Chipola basketball teams during the 2004-05 and 2005-06 seasons. He averaged 9.8 points per game and 2.8 assists during his time at Chipola. Taylor helped lead the Indians to two Panhandle Conference Championships, a Region VIII Championship, and NJCAA National Tournament Final Four Appearance, while compiling a 62-8 record. Many Indian fans remember his emotional performance during the 2005 Region VIII Championship game against Tallahassee. Although the Indians lost by 2 points in triple overtime, Taylor will be forever remembered for his performance that night as he knocked down 7 consecutive 3-pointers during a stretch run in the second half.
After leaving Chipola he spent one season at Iowa State where he led the team in scoring (16 ppg), scoring 20 or more points nine times. His season high was 33 points against Minnesota. He left after one season and eventually landed with the Idaho Stampede in the NBA’s Development League. In helping lead the Stampede to a championship he averaged 14.5 ppg, 3.5 rebounds and 4.3 assist as the team’s sixth man. His season high score was 32 points against Tulsa.
Chipola Coach Greg Heiar commented, "I am extremely proud of Mike Taylor and this is a combination of many years of hard work and refocusing his life. It is exciting to see Mike succeed in life and the entire Chipola community wishes him all the best."
Summer League Basketball Wraps Up
7/3/08
By Clint Cox
The June Summer Basketball League held at Marianna High School came to a close last Thursday night and by all indications it was another successful summer. Three Jackson County schools were in action on this final night. Marianna dropped a close game to Port St. Joe when the Tiger Sharks hit a shot at the buzzer to win 53-52. The Tiger Sharks then downed the Sneads Pirates by a score of 70-49. Marianna and Malone then squared off one more time and the Bulldogs came away with a 65-50 win. In the night-capper it was Sneads and Malone doing battle with the Tigers posting a 10 point win over the Pirates.
Bulldog and host coach Travis Blanton said the league was beneficial to his team and the other teams as well. "I think we had another successful summer league. All the teams improved each week and I think we have one of the better officiated summer leagues in the state. The Northwest Florida Officials Association does a great job for us," commented Blanton. As for his Bulldogs, Blanton liked what he saw over the summer. "We lost some outstanding players from last year’s squad (9 seniors) but I am really excited about the upcoming season. I feel like the kids coming up have bought into our team concept and I saw a lot of unselfish play over the past month. We’ll have a lot of juniors that need to step up but I like what I’ve seen from their effort this summer," Blanton said. The Bulldogs will spend the remainder of the summer working out individually and spending time in the weight room.
Sneads Head Coach Kelvin Johnson acknowledged his upcoming team has their work cut out for them. "We are back to being young. We’ll have 3 seniors and after that I’ve got a bunch of 10th graders that will have to step up and play varsity. They’re a good group and there is some talent there, but they are very young. This summer has been good for them. They’ve taken their lumps but that will help us in the long run. Some nights we looked pretty good and some nights we looked like a summer team," Johnson said in assessing his team’s progress over the summer. The Pirates will continue their summer league activities by participating in a July schedule with Blountstown, Altha and Liberty County.
Malone Head Coach Steven Welch said he saw some things he liked and some things to work on over the summer. "It was a typical summer league for us. Some nights we were up and some nights we were down. But you never know who’ll you have on a given night and you never quite know what kind of legs they will have," Welch commented regarding the common occurrence in summer ball of players not being able to play on a given night or not being in the same kind of shape as during the regular season. All in all though Welch liked what he saw. "We’ve got a good mix of some players with experience and then some young players coming up. I saw some improvement in several areas and then I saw some things we still need to be working on," said Welch. The Tigers will close out the summer by individual workouts and a few pickup games here and there.
By Clint Cox
The June Summer Basketball League held at Marianna High School came to a close last Thursday night and by all indications it was another successful summer. Three Jackson County schools were in action on this final night. Marianna dropped a close game to Port St. Joe when the Tiger Sharks hit a shot at the buzzer to win 53-52. The Tiger Sharks then downed the Sneads Pirates by a score of 70-49. Marianna and Malone then squared off one more time and the Bulldogs came away with a 65-50 win. In the night-capper it was Sneads and Malone doing battle with the Tigers posting a 10 point win over the Pirates.
Bulldog and host coach Travis Blanton said the league was beneficial to his team and the other teams as well. "I think we had another successful summer league. All the teams improved each week and I think we have one of the better officiated summer leagues in the state. The Northwest Florida Officials Association does a great job for us," commented Blanton. As for his Bulldogs, Blanton liked what he saw over the summer. "We lost some outstanding players from last year’s squad (9 seniors) but I am really excited about the upcoming season. I feel like the kids coming up have bought into our team concept and I saw a lot of unselfish play over the past month. We’ll have a lot of juniors that need to step up but I like what I’ve seen from their effort this summer," Blanton said. The Bulldogs will spend the remainder of the summer working out individually and spending time in the weight room.
Sneads Head Coach Kelvin Johnson acknowledged his upcoming team has their work cut out for them. "We are back to being young. We’ll have 3 seniors and after that I’ve got a bunch of 10th graders that will have to step up and play varsity. They’re a good group and there is some talent there, but they are very young. This summer has been good for them. They’ve taken their lumps but that will help us in the long run. Some nights we looked pretty good and some nights we looked like a summer team," Johnson said in assessing his team’s progress over the summer. The Pirates will continue their summer league activities by participating in a July schedule with Blountstown, Altha and Liberty County.
Malone Head Coach Steven Welch said he saw some things he liked and some things to work on over the summer. "It was a typical summer league for us. Some nights we were up and some nights we were down. But you never know who’ll you have on a given night and you never quite know what kind of legs they will have," Welch commented regarding the common occurrence in summer ball of players not being able to play on a given night or not being in the same kind of shape as during the regular season. All in all though Welch liked what he saw. "We’ve got a good mix of some players with experience and then some young players coming up. I saw some improvement in several areas and then I saw some things we still need to be working on," said Welch. The Tigers will close out the summer by individual workouts and a few pickup games here and there.
Ben Odom Golf Tournament is a Great Success!!
7/3/08
The First Annual Ben Odom Golf Tournament was a huge Success!! Fifty-one motivated golfers participated in the fund raising event along with another 10 volunteers.
"I was very pleased with the turnout and the only thing I was worried about was the weather. Luckily, Mother Nature was kind to us and let our event run its course." said Odom. "I would like to thank everyone for coming out and participating in this wonderful event. We had a great group of golfers, wonderful sponsors and hard working volunteers. A special thanks goes to Mrs. Sandy Helms (Chairman of the Republican Executive Committee) for assisting with registration and the like, as well as my sister Natacha Phillips for all of her hard work and support." Odom says.
Congratulations to the winners!! Taking home the top 4 man scramble prize was the team of Mr. Francis Laughlin, Mr. Jimmy Mercer, Mr. David Johnson, and Mr. Wayne Austin. Mr. Ellis won the prize for "closest to the pin" on hole #8, and Francis Laughlin won that prize on #18. Jimmy Mercer pounded out the longest drive and took home that prize. The field was very talented and everyone seemed to have a great time!
"This turnout demonstrates the depth of support for my campaign" Ben Odom continued, "It was great to combine fun and fund raising. I will now use these funds to further my efforts to become a County Commissioner."
The First Annual Ben Odom Golf Tournament was a huge Success!! Fifty-one motivated golfers participated in the fund raising event along with another 10 volunteers.
"I was very pleased with the turnout and the only thing I was worried about was the weather. Luckily, Mother Nature was kind to us and let our event run its course." said Odom. "I would like to thank everyone for coming out and participating in this wonderful event. We had a great group of golfers, wonderful sponsors and hard working volunteers. A special thanks goes to Mrs. Sandy Helms (Chairman of the Republican Executive Committee) for assisting with registration and the like, as well as my sister Natacha Phillips for all of her hard work and support." Odom says.
Congratulations to the winners!! Taking home the top 4 man scramble prize was the team of Mr. Francis Laughlin, Mr. Jimmy Mercer, Mr. David Johnson, and Mr. Wayne Austin. Mr. Ellis won the prize for "closest to the pin" on hole #8, and Francis Laughlin won that prize on #18. Jimmy Mercer pounded out the longest drive and took home that prize. The field was very talented and everyone seemed to have a great time!
"This turnout demonstrates the depth of support for my campaign" Ben Odom continued, "It was great to combine fun and fund raising. I will now use these funds to further my efforts to become a County Commissioner."
Junior Carlton – One For the Book
7/3/08
Retired Marianna businessman Junior Carlton, a young 84 years old, may be one for the Guinness Book Of Records. A monumental goal of golfers is to ever have the ability to shoot an eighteen hole score that equals or betters their age.
Champion golfer Arnold Palmer states that one of the highlights of his career was the occasion when he shot a 69 to win a seniors tour event, on his 69th birthday. To accomplish this feat equals or exceeds that of hitting a hole in one for seasoned golfers.
Junior Carlton accomplishes that feat routinely. In fact, the eighty four year old golfer’s existing certified handicap is a 10. That means that his handicap score which is his best ten out of his last twenty scores has averaged an 82. Also, since the course handicap is a +3, his actual average at the Caverns Golf Course is a 79. This amazing feat might qualify him for entry into the Guinness records.
Retired Marianna businessman Junior Carlton, a young 84 years old, may be one for the Guinness Book Of Records. A monumental goal of golfers is to ever have the ability to shoot an eighteen hole score that equals or betters their age.
Champion golfer Arnold Palmer states that one of the highlights of his career was the occasion when he shot a 69 to win a seniors tour event, on his 69th birthday. To accomplish this feat equals or exceeds that of hitting a hole in one for seasoned golfers.
Junior Carlton accomplishes that feat routinely. In fact, the eighty four year old golfer’s existing certified handicap is a 10. That means that his handicap score which is his best ten out of his last twenty scores has averaged an 82. Also, since the course handicap is a +3, his actual average at the Caverns Golf Course is a 79. This amazing feat might qualify him for entry into the Guinness records.
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