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Panhandle pays tribute to Kinard teen who planned a life of service to others

May 17, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor BLOUNTSTOWN – State Road 20 was packed with a long line of firetrucks, ambulances and law enforcement vehicles Saturday morning to honor a 17-year-old who had already dedicated his life to helping others. Emergency responders from throughout the panhandle gathered to give Ryan Flowers a true fireman’s funeral. A giant American flag was suspended over South Main Street by two fire department ladder trucks in front of the First Baptist Church. Another huge flag was placed over Chipola Road, where the procession traveled on the way to the church. As the line of vehicles traveled…

Bristol man ejected from truck early Saturday remains in critical condition

May 17, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor BRISTOL – A 24-year-old Liberty County man remains hospitalized in critical but stable condition after he was ejected from his truck in a Saturday morning accident about 100 yards from Turkey Creek Road. Justin Faircloth sustained serious head wounds and…

Is there a Pellet Plant in Liberty County’s future?

May 15, 2013

WATERSOUND – The St. Joe Company (NYSE: JOE) today announced that it has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Green Circle Bio Energy, Inc., a producer of biomass based renewable energy. The LOI encourages economic development opportunities for Florida’s Northwest region, including the potential…

Driver pinned in wreck

May 10, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor A Bristol man was taken by emergency helicopter to an area hospital after being removed by rescue workers who found him trapped under his car Saturday afternoon on MLK Blvd. in Bristol. Liberty County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Jody Hoagland waited…

Kinard teen killed in crash with log truck

May 10, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor SCOTTS FERRY – Emergency responders lost one of their own Tuesday morning. Just 17 years old, Ryan Flowers had already gone on ride-alongs with local ambulance crews and helped out at the Kinard Fire Department for the past year and…

LCHS headed to State Championship

May 10, 2013

Liberty County High School’s Lady Bulldogs boarded a bus Tuesday morning to head to the Regional State Championship game. LEFT: The team is all smiles as they settle into their seats for the ride to Vero Beach.

Three arrested on meth charges after home is searched

May 3, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor Three people were arrested on methamphetamine charges after a deputy went to a Blountstown residence to serve a civil paper last week. Calhoun County Deputy Bobby Sims noticed a strong chemical…

Man charged for leaving toddlers alone in truck

May 3, 2013

A father was charged with child neglect after Blountstown Police Officer Adam Terry spotted a three-year-old climbing out of the window of a parked truck that was idling with its lights on Thursday night. Terry was driving through the parking lot at Family Dollar around…

Car chase ends with crash in yard, driver arrested

May 3, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor BRISTOL – A man who fled a traffic stop and led deputies on a chase down SR 12 north into the Hall Circle community was caught after he lost control of the car, crashed into several trees and hit a…

Flat Head Tourney Winners

May 3, 2013

The Liberty County Senior Citizens made $3,500 with this year’s Flathead Fishing Tournament fundraiser, held Friday and Saturday, April 26 and 27 at the Bristol Boat Landing. Between the 81 adults and a number of children who participated in the 12th annual tournament, a total…

Rodeo

April 26, 2013

The Florida Panhandle Saddle Club’s fifth Annual Rodeo was held Saturday in Blountstown, bringing in more than 1,300 spectators to watch the riders kick up some dust at the Skeet Davis Arena in Sam Atkins Park. Take Stock in Children (TSIC) hosted a side event…

Calhoun boy diagnosed with Joubert Syndrome needs kidney transplant

April 26, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor Rachel Hatcher was six months pregnant when she learned her baby was in renal failure. Doctors tried to prepare her for the worst. They told her he would not look good at birth and would die soon afterward. “They were…

Pair charged with taking over $10,000 in coins & antiques from Calhoun home

April 26, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor Two people have been charged with taking an estimated $10,000 in antiques as well as gold and silver coins from the home of a Calhoun County man. An alert clerk at a Marianna motel noticed that two people staying there…

Commissioner hospitalized with head injuries after ATV accident

April 26, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor Liberty County Commissioner Scotty Phillips is in intensive care at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital after suffering severe head injuries in an ATV accident Thursday. His four-year-old son, who was riding on the back of the vehicle, escaped with just a few…

Training drill held for LCSO

April 19, 2013

Ten members of the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office took part in a four-hour tactical law enforcement training session late Monday afternoon, participating in different scenarios requiring them to make quick decisions and take decisive action. The program, coordinated by Management Experts out of Tallahassee with…

Former Jail Administrator charged with grand theft

April 19, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor Liberty County Jail Administrator Jenny Young is charged with grand theft after over $1,000 in jail funds and three computers could not be accounted for when she left her job on Jan. 1, 2013. Young, 50, of Hosford, served as…

Sellers of synthetic drugs to face fines in Liberty County

April 19, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks It’s not illegal, but if you get caught doing it in Liberty County, it will cost you up to $500 and could send you to jail for 60 days. An ordinance passed April 4 by the Liberty County Commission will fine anyone…

Beer stolen in ‘smash & grab’ at Crow’s Corner Monday

April 19, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor The Liberty County Sheriff’s Office is asking for information on the identity of two people who broke into the Crow’s Corner convenience store late Monday night, shattering the front glass door and stealing three boxes of beer. The sheriff’s office…

Three arrested after meth lab discovered in SR 71 residence

April 12, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor A seven-year-old girl was removed from her home and three people were arrested after investigators walked into a residence filled with the chemical fumes created by cooking methamphetamine last week, according to a report from the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office…

Relay for Life

April 12, 2013

A lot of meetings, a lot of support and a lot of caring went into this year’s Relay for Life event. Volunteers exceeded their $25,000 goal and raised more than $30,000 to go toward cancer research. Survivors, supporters and friends gathered Friday night at Sam…

Law Enforcement Torch Run

April 12, 2013

Volunteers from the prison staff and local law enforcement agencies took part in the annual Torch Run this week. A group from Liberty County (right) made the run Monday. The torch made its way through Calhoun County on Tuesday (left) as part of the event…

Liberty County featured on ‘Untold Stories: Behind the Squatch’

April 5, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor A behind-the-scenes program showing how the series “Finding Bigfoot” is made aired on Animal Planet Sunday night and featured the crew during their recent visit to Liberty County. The actual “Finding Bigfoot” episode they were here to film won’t be…

Approx. $1,000 in beer, cigarettes stolen in break-in

April 5, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor The Liberty County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a March 27 break-in at Caz’s Bait & Tackle on CR 333, where someone made off with over $560 worth of beer, nearly $400 in tobacco products and groceries worth four dollars. Store…

Paralyzed driver operating pedals with stick arrested on DUI charge

April 5, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor A paralyzed man using a stick to operate the pedals in an SUV was charged with DUI after a 1:27 a.m. traffic stop in Bristol, according to a report from the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office. Deputy Jarrod Taylor was patrolling…

Carrying the Cross

April 5, 2013

Nearly 40 runners took part in Saturday’s first ever Carrying the Cross for Jesus run through Calhoun County. Most started at the Calhoun Liberty Ministry Center, and some joined near the Calhoun County Airport. Other runners who weren’t up for the full 13.75 miles could…

Ideas discussed, strategies presented at 8th Calhoun County Super Council

March 29, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor County commissioners, school board members, council members from Altha and Blountstown, along with the Blountstown City Manager and Assistant Manager gathered in the Heritage Room at the Blountstown Library for the eighth Calhoun County Super Council meeting Thursday night. A…

Suspect caught soon after liquor store armed robbery

March 29, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor A man arrested for Thursday nights armed robbery of West End Liquors in Blountstown told investigators he did it because he was depressed about his financial situation. Justin Levi Lovett, 21, of Blountstown was charged with one count of armed…

‘Behind the Scenes’ show this Sunday to focus on ‘Finding Bigfoot’ episode set in this area

March 29, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor It may be a few months before the Florida episode of “Finding Bigfoot” filmed here recently will air, but some of the background work done to create the show will be featured on Sunday night’s “Finding Bigfoot; Untold Stories,” at…

Three from Quincy arrested; Gallon bag of cannabis found in traffic stop

March 22, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor Three people from Quincy were arrested after a gallon-size bag filled with marijuana was found in their vehicle during a traffic stop on SR 12 last week, according to a report from the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office. Deputy Jonathan Gentry…

Bristol toddler dies after being found in bathtub

March 22, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor In the midst of their devastation, a young couple in Bristol have found a way to give hope to other parents with the decision to donate the organs of their one-year-son following his unexpected death. Doctors are scheduled to remove…

Broadband equipment going up at Calhoun Industrial Park

March 22, 2013

Workers are shown Tuesday as they install microwave antennas on the Calhoun County Airport/Industrial Park water tower as part of the Florida Rural Broadband Alliance. These are point-to-point antennas that will transmit large volumes of data into the fiber optic system. Construction is under way…

Woman killed in SR 12 head-on collision Sunday

March 22, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor A Georgia woman is dead, a Bristol man is lucky to be alive and the driver of the truck that caused a horrific collision on SR 12 Sunday night in Liberty County was hospitalized in serious condition. Edwin Hobby of…

Wounded warriors on wheels roll through panhandle Friday

March 15, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor A group of wounded warriors taking part in a unique rehabilitation program rolled through the panhandle last week, traveling from Panama City to Tallahassee during the final segment of their Gulf Coast Challenge. On Friday, they made their way through…

Fuder, Smith arrested for making meth

March 8, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor BLOUNTSTOWN – Two women are facing charges of manufacturing methamphetamine after investigators arrived at their Kelly Avenue residence on Jan. 24 as they were in the process of cooking the drug. A report of excessive pseudoephedrine purchases brought investigators to…

Ex-roommate charged with theft

March 8, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor MOSSY POND – A 23-year-old Cottondale man who once shared a mobile home with a woman on Lake McKenzie Road in the Mossy Pond Community has been charged with trespassing and grand theft after numerous items went missing from the…

Barrentine arrested on arson charge in Feb. 18 camper fire

March 8, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor FANTASY ISLAND – A Clarksville man with a history of calling emergency responders and asking for a ride into town was arrested last week for setting fire to an unoccupied camper trailer. Michael Aaron Barrentine, 28, has been charged with…

Reddick, Severance win Bristol City logo contest

March 1, 2013

The winning entry in the City of Bristol Logo Contest, pictured at right, was submitted by Frank Severance and Laurie Reddick. When Bristol Mayor Steve Cutshaw notified Severance to share the good news, he gave all the credit to Reddick. The logo will go on…

DNA match made over three years after burglary

March 1, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor Despite collecting DNA evidence at the scene of a burglary in Calhoun County, it took more than three years to make an arrest because the suspect’s DNA wasn’t in the system at that time. The Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office reports…

BHS weightlifting champ killed in Oklahoma shooting Thursday

March 1, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor “The way he was always smiling and laughing, it just seemed like he had all his stuff together. Nothing could make him mad,” says Blountstown High School senior Christian Pierce about his friend Chaz Fain. The two friends shared the…

Rivers Rising

March 1, 2013

Following several days of heavy rainfall, Liberty County Emergency Management Director Rhonda Lewis estimates the county received between 10 and 12 inches of rain alone on Monday and Tuesday. “The rivers are still rising,” she said Tuesday afternoon. She said the Apalachicola River is expected…

U.S. Supreme Court rules in State’s favor in Liberty County ‘Dog Sniff’ case

February 22, 2013

TALLAHASSEE — The United State Supreme Court ruled Tuesday in favor of the State of Florida in Florida v. Clayton Harris, deciding that police dog Aldo’s sniff constituted probable cause for Liberty County K-9 Officer William Wheetley to search Clayton Harris’ vehicle for illegal drugs.…

Bigfoot researcher talks with students

February 22, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor Whether or not you believe in Bigfoot, you can be sure of one thing: Tyler Bounds loves his job. “I’m getting paid to go around the country to camp with friends to go look for Bigfoot,” he says. Although he’s…

Inmate caught with cell phone,cocaine, marijuana & tobacco

February 22, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor A Liberty County Jail inmate in custody after he fled from court following a bond revocation hearing Feb. 4 is facing additional charges after he was caught with drugs and a cell phone. As the jail staff was getting ready…

Samantha Newsome is named Liberty Co. Teacher of the Year

February 15, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor Sixth-grade math teacher Samantha Newsome says she’s learned a lot of lessons from her young students at Tolar School in Bristol. “Each student brings a uniqueness to the classroom that makes each day different,” she says. “There is not a…

Calhoun County selects Karen Tomlinson this year’s top teacher

February 15, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor Long before the state began limiting class size, math teacher Karen Tomlinson had already discovered how effective it was to deal with smaller groups of students. In 29 years of teaching, she’s learned what works and doesn’t. Last year, when…

Finding Bigfoot; Animal Planet crew visits Torreya Park to prepare for filming

February 15, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor A three-member location scouting group from the Animal Planet program “Finding Bigfoot” is visiting four counties in the Florida Panhandle this week, including Liberty County, to make preparations to film a new episode of the series. The upcoming program is…

Two charged after attempt to outrun BPD traffic stop

February 8, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor BLOUNTSTOWN – A man caught on radar going nearly twice the speed limit lost control of his vehicle while trying to outrun a police officer attempting a traffic stop Sunday in Blountstown. The driver, Jeffrey Lee Harris, 48, of Boston,…

LCI tracking team captures escapee near Gadsden County line; Man flees courtroom Monday after bond revoked

February 8, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor BRISTOL – A man who fled down the back stairwell of the Liberty County Courthouse Monday morning led deputies on an 12-mile chase through Bristol and up SR 12 North before being captured 90 minutes later about a mile from…

Blountstown man ejected in crash

February 1, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor A Blountstown man was seriously injured Sunday night when he was thrown from his vehicle during an accident on CR 275, near the intersection of SR 71. Garrison Bailey, 19, ran off the road, hit a culvert and was ejected,…

Clarksville couple lose home in fire Saturday

February 1, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor CLARKSVILLE – Max Griffin and his wife, Julie, had just arrived at her parents’ home for supper Saturday night when he heard a crackling sound in the distance. Julie’s brother, Brian Kenyon, was stepping onto the porch to join them…

Supervisor charged with having sex with teen at Liberty Wilderness Camp

February 1, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor A man who was previously in charge of juvenile offenders sent to Liberty Wilderness Camp for rehabilitation was charged with sexual assault after one of his former campers revealed that not only had they been intimate, they had a child.…

Montford talks education, jobs & prison at Liberty Co. Chamber annual meeting

January 25, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor State Senator Bill Montford’s speech at Monday night’s annual Liberty County Chamber of Commerce Membership meeting made it clear where he stands on the issues and a story from his years as a school principal shows he knows how to…

Liberty Chamber honors Joe Shuler

January 23, 2013

Longtime Liberty County Chamber of Commerce member Joe Shuler was honored with an award recognizing his efforts with the organization. The inscription read, “In appreciation for your outstanding and dedicated service to our community.” Chamber President Michael Wright is shown holding the award as Shuler…

Liberty Commission turns down request to fund SRO position

January 18, 2013

by Liliane Parbot, contributing writer Resource officers to ensure the safety of Liberty County students are being sought by the school district, but the Board of County Commissioners did not agree to help with the costs, as requested to do at Thursday’s meeting in Bristol.…

Former BPD officer, PBA representative charged with domestic violence

January 18, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor A former law enforcement officer and investigator was arrested Tuesday afternoon on a felony domestic battery charge following an altercation with his ex-wife at her home on SE CR 69. Steve Mears, 38, was taken into custody without incident at…

School Board to fund 3rd SRO position

January 18, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor The Liberty County School Board unanimously voted to fund a third School Resource Officer (SRO) position at Tuesday night’s meeting. “They didn’t hesitate, there was no discussion…I was very pleased,” said School Superintendent Gay Uzzell, who was less successful when…

Seven former LCSO employees get $78,570 in leave payouts

January 18, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor When two majors, two lieutenants and three sergeants ended their employment with the Liberty County Sheriff’s office last month, they received a combined $78,570.08 in pay for unused sick time, comp time and annual leave. Before ending his term in…

Shooting death of former Altha resident said to be accidental

January 11, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor BAY COUNTY – A memorial service was held Saturday for a 24-year-old man whose life ended abruptly with a discharge from a shotgun being handled by one of his best friends at a home on Panama City Beach Jan. 2.…

Families welcome first babies of the New Year

January 11, 2013

Calhoun County’s first baby of 2013 arrives on Jan. 2 from Jackson Hospital Amanda Jones and Robert Kuzmanko of Altha are the proud parents of Elijah Michael Kuzmanko, the first baby born in the New Year at Jackson Hospital in Marianna. He is also…

Nick Finch sworn in as Liberty County Sheriff

January 2, 2013

Groups compete for $2.25 million grant to run FQHC

January 2, 2013

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor Two groups are vying to take over Liberty Community Health Care, a federally qualified health center, as its second round of funding comes to a close in April of this year. Federally Qualified Heath Centers (FQHC) provide primary and preventative…

Chambers charged with attack on former girlfriend

December 14, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor A Blountstown man is being held without bond on a charge of felony domestic battery by strangulation after his ex-girlfriend reported that he chased her down, grabbed her by the throat, threw her to the ground and choked her. Arrested…

Clarksville man is charged with DUI manslaughter in Jan. wreck

December 14, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor The Florida Highway Patrol has charged a Clarksville man with DUI manslaughter for the death of a friend in a single-vehicle accident this past January. Arrested Monday was Tyrell Odom, 27. His bond was set at $20,000 and includes the…

Altha teen killed in single-vehicle wreck on CR 69A

December 7, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor There were plenty of tears at Altha High School (AHS) Monday morning for a young man whose greatest joy was making others happy. Eighteen-year-old Angel Enrique “Ricky” Morales, who graduated from the school last year, was killed after he lost…

Angie Smith named Emergency Mgt. Director; Joe Wood named Public Works Director and Grant Coordinator Calhoun Commission fires Emergency Mgt. Director

December 7, 2012

Two weeks after taking away Sonny O’Bryan’s position as County Administrator, the Calhoun County Commission voted to take the rest. He was fired at Tuesday’s regular meeting by a 3-1 vote. Commissioner Darrell McDougald held the sole vote in favor of keeping O’Bryan on the…

Liberty claims Region 2 Championship with 14-7 victory over Blountstown

November 30, 2012

by Richard Williams and Michael DeVuyst, Journal sports writers Liberty County’s defense kept the Blountstown Tigers from taking advantage of early Bulldog miscues while the Tiger defense allowed two long scoring drives in a 14-7 Liberty County win over Blountstown on Nov. 23 in Bristol.…

Commission strips O’Bryan of County Administrator title; Workshop & special meeting planned Thursday

November 30, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor Longtime Emergency Management Director and County Administrator Sonny O’Bryan wasn’t fired, but one of his many titles was taken away at last week’s Calhoun County Commission meeting. And no one can say exactly what that means…at least not until a…

Sheriff-Elect ready to make some changes in Liberty Co.

November 23, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor “Things are going to change dramatically. It’s going to be a good change,” says Liberty County Sheriff-Elect Nick Finch, 50, of Bristol, who is preparing to take on the county’s top law enforcement position in early January after defeating incumbent…

Two injured when UPS truck rear-ended on SR 20

November 23, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor BRISTOL – A rear-end collision that knocked a UPS truck into a tree sent two men to the hospital by ambulance last Wednesday afternoon. Ken Purvis, 63, of Lake Talquin was traveling west on SR 20 at 1:15 p.m. and…

Judge injured in 15-foot fall head first from shooting stand

November 16, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor A mishap in a tree stand left Liberty County Judge Ken Hosford with a broken collarbone, four broken ribs, six damaged vertebrae and a severe concussion Saturday morning during a hunting trip in Springfield, Kentucky. He said he realized there…

Brown begins Clerk of Court duties

November 7, 2012

As her husband, Ricky Brown, holds the Bible, new Liberty County Clerk of Court Kathy Brown is sworn into office Monday afternoon by Judge Ken Hosford. JOHNNY EUBANKS PHOTO

Gov. appoints Gloria “Gay” Uzzell as Liberty County School Superintendent

November 1, 2012

TALLAHASSEE – Governor Rick Scott announced the appointment of Gloria “Gay” Uzzell as Liberty County Superintendent of Schools. Uzzell, 50, of Bristol, is currently the Superintendent-elect and Director of Administration for the Liberty County School Board. She succeeds Dr. Sue Summers and is appointed for…

City of Blountstown ordinance requires all businesses be licensed

October 26, 2012

Businesses operating within the city limits of Blountstown are now required to have a license, according to an ordinance passed by the Blountstown City Council that went into effect Oct. 1. Business owners must pay a $25 fee each year and anyone wanting to conduct…

GOAT DAY

October 19, 2012

The 26th annual Goat Day will be held this Saturday at Sam Atkins Park in Blountstown, drawing thousands of visitors to the area to enjoy the park, the old-fashioned games, the animals and the chance to do some early holiday shopping from the many vendors…

Fired Health Dept. Director awarded over $600,000 & job reinstatement

October 19, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor BRISTOL – A six-member Liberty County jury agreed with former Health Department Director David Odum, 68, that he should not have been fired and awarded him over $600,000 at the end of a four-day trial last week in Bristol. “Just…

Motorhome rolls over 86-year-old at Woodmen campground

October 10, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor HOSFORD–An 86-year-old man pulling into a camping space was critically injured when his 1990 Ford Winnebago backed over him Monday afternoon, according to a report from Florida Highway Patrol Trooper Mike S. Cross Sr. Luther Edward Hughes of Trenton, Florida…

Five-year-old on ATV runs off road, into tree

October 10, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor HOSFORD – A five-year-old boy is in the intensive care unit of Tallahassee Memorial Hospital after the four-wheeler he was riding hit a tree Monday afternoon. Injured was Virgil Fletcher, who is the son of Liberty County Deputy Cory Fletcher…

Calhoun Correctional officers charged with accepting bribes

October 5, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor BLOUNTSTOWN – Three officers at Calhoun Correctional Institution, including the Chief of Security, have been charged with accepting bribes to do favors for inmates. The special treatment included bringing in alcohol and a cell phone as well as offering “protection,”…

Eleven charged at Swampy Tonk Bar Owner, staff & customers arrested in AB&T raid

October 5, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor A raid by officers with Alcoholic Beverage & Tobacco (AB&T, ) a division of the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, closed the doors to a Blountstown bar after the owner, two employees and eight customers were arrested Thursday…

Man charged with shooting into residence

September 28, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor BLOUNTSTOWN – A man who allegedly held a sawed-off shotgun at his hip while firing into a home with people inside is being held without bond in the Calhoun County Jail. Darcey Lamont Bess, 41, of Blountstown, was arrested on…

Hosford men charged with kidnapping woman and five-year-old

September 21, 2012

A Hosford man is being held without bond in the Liberty County Jail after he allegedly abducted his estranged wife and their five-year-old daughter Saturday night, according to a report from the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office. Conley Richard Burke, 26, is charged with kidnapping and…

Three Alco employees, five others charged with stealing store inventory

September 21, 2012

Seven people have been arrested and another is being sought for the theft of over $5,000 in merchandise from Alco, according to a report from the Blountstown Police Department. Three of those charged were current employees while one previously worked at the store, according to…

Woman arrested in shooting death

September 14, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor LOWRY – One man is dead and the woman who called 911 for help and exclaimed, “I just shot my boyfriend,” was arrested for his murder Friday night in Liberty County. Chairty Furr, 34, was charged with homicide after deputies…

Burglary suspects stranded after owner takes back boat

September 7, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor Deputies didn’t have to look far to nab three suspects accused of breaking into a houseboat near Ocheessee Landing around 2 a.m. Saturday. After seeing the group enter the locked structure, the owner took the boat they had used to…

Ejected driver in critical condition

September 7, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor A Blountstown man was transported to Bay Medical Center in critical condition after losing control of his truck and overturning in a 2 a.m. accident Tuesday. The injured driver was identified as Darryl K. O’Bryan, 50. According to Florida Highway…

Ted Cooper Stadium dedicated

September 7, 2012

Car lands in fish pond; driver flees

September 7, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor A 4:20 a.m. accident Tuesday morning left a four-door 1987 Mercedes 560SEL underwater and the driver nowhere in sight. FHP Trooper Wes Harsey responded to the scene to find the vehicle, which had been traveling south on CR 69, upside…

FDLE reports ‘inconclusive’ finding in McLemore case

August 31, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor Did Tranum McLemore die by his own hand or was he killed? An investigation by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) resulted in the same answer for both questions: “Inconclusive.” The FDLE investigation “does not support a finding that…

Two stay in office after Calhoun Co. primary; long ballot facing voters in Nov. 6 General Election

August 24, 2012

A new county commissioner was elected and two incumbent school board members were voted in for another term in last week’s Primary Election in Calhoun County. Voter turnout was just above the state average at 51.27 percent. Political newcomer Thomas Flowers challenged incumbent Harold Pickron…

Gator tips boats and takes hunters for a ride First-time alligator hunter lands 13-foot, 900-lb. monster on the Apalachicola River

August 24, 2012

Justin Ranew admits he felt kind of bad about not telling the truth to Blountstown Police Chief Rodney Smith last Wednesday night. The two met in passing on the Apalachicola River, where both were on the lookout for alligators. Smith is a longtime gator hunter…

Liberty Co. elects five in primary; three races to be decided in General Election

August 24, 2012

Liberty County once again led the state in voter turnout with 66.04 percent of the county’s 4,372 registered voters casting a ballot. Of that number, 950 were early votes and one was a provisional ballot, the highest number the office has seen since the practice…

Mother awaits autopsy results to explain death of 13-yr-old son

August 10, 2012

Betty Cornwell said her 13-year-old son, David, recently returned from a church youth camp and was looking forward to being baptized on Sunday. Instead, he was buried on Saturday. The youngster, who was slated to start eighth grade at Tolar School this month, died unexpectedly…

Justin Gatlin wins Olympic Bronze in 100-meter dash

August 10, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor When Justin Gatlin crossed the finish line of the men’s 100-meter dash during the 2012 Olympics in London this week, he got more than the bronze medal – he got a little redemption. Gatlin made a name for himself when…

Heart patient loses battle with organ rejection Monday

August 3, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor Any death in a small community has an impact but it’s even harder for those left behind when the one they lost fought so hard to survive. Until her death Monday afternoon, Ramsey Brown defied the odds. A heart defect…

Bristol woman held at gunpoint by man at Quincy recycling business

August 3, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor A Bristol woman who went into work a few minutes early Tuesday morning found herself at the mercy of a gun-wielding man who threatened to kill her if she didn’t hand over money he believed was being kept in the…

Local health departments at bottom of FL rankings; changes already under way

July 27, 2012

Residents got a surprise when it was learned Friday that the Liberty County Health Department was the lowest ranked facility in the state and that the Calhoun County Health Department was only two notches higher. The Franklin County Health Department was wedged between the two…

Family and friends gather to honor Grady Lou Nichols on 100th birthday

July 27, 2012

There’s no way to accurately count up the meals she’s cooked and quilts she’s stitched, but as she nears her 100th birthday, Grady Lou Nichols fondly recalls doing those things for the family she raised in Calhoun County. And she had a lot of family…

Journey Stories

July 20, 2012

The Journey Stories display will remain set up in the Clubhouse at the Panhandle Pioneer Settlement through August 25. It features photos, stories and personal mementos from families who traveled to the Florida Panhandle to make their home.

Tire problem on towed vehicle causes car, SUV to overturn

July 20, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor Two vehicles were left overturned along the side of the road following an equipment problem on a 1979 Oldsmobile that was being towed by an SUV along State Road 65, a mile and a half north of the Lowery Chip…

Calhoun and Liberty County Schools grades

July 20, 2012

Calhoun and Liberty County’s elementary and middle schools had a drop in scores following last week’s release of their school grades by the Florida Department of Education. Educators are not happy with the tougher grading requirements recently implemented and this year, districts throughout the state…

At age 90 & 91, these two veterans have a few stories to tell about their wartime experiences

July 13, 2012

STORY AND PHOTOS BY PHIL COALE The Panhandle Pioneer Settlement opened its doors Friday night, July 6 to two American Heroes as the Settlement hosted Senior Master Sgt. James Ayers and Tuskegee Airman Sgt. Cornelius Davis, both retired, to tell stories of their lives including…

ATV rider injured after hitting tree

July 13, 2012

A 14-year-old from Bristol was discharged from Shands Hospital Monday night and is recuperating at home after sustaining incapacitating injuries when he drove an ATV into a tree Saturday night. Stanford Josiah Dawson is a bit sore but doing well, according to his brother, Stafford.…

Bristol 12-year-old wins Wewa Fishing Tournament with 35.03 flathead

July 6, 2012

There may have been 70 anglers taking part in last weekend’s fishing tournament in Wewahitchka, but a youngster from Bristol put ‘em all to shame after he collected four trophies, four checks and a pile of big flathead catfish. It must have been a heck…

Standoff at road block ends when suspect shoots himself in chin

July 6, 2012

A 51-year-old Calhoun County man is facing a long list of charges after he allegedly threatened to shoot his estranged wife and led deputies on a chase at speeds of over 100 mph and then turned the gun on himself, resulting in a non-fatal wound…

Woman charged with attempted murder after shooting at ex

June 29, 2012

A 56-year-old Marianna woman is being held without bond after investigators say she shot up the home of her ex-boyfriend and tried to kill him by firing a gun through his bedroom door. Shortly after deputies arrived, Brenda “Sissy” Toole was taken into custody without…

GETTING OFF THE ISLAND

June 29, 2012

REPORT: Bristol felon took investigator’s truck, used gun & badge to pose as undercover officer

June 29, 2012

Convicted felon Travis Allen has spent a lot of time in the back of patrol cars but in recent months, it seems he’s been in the driver’s seat. Allen, 29, has been a frequent guest of the Liberty County Jail and has served time in…

Stealing Second

June 22, 2012

Blountstown’s Trace Mears, right, steals second base as Liberty County shortstop Lucas Polver, left, reaches too late for the throw during the eight and Under Little League game last week in Sneads. Blountstown won.

Inmates seen disappearing into walls of jail bathroom

June 22, 2012

A correctional officer at the Liberty County Jail made a startling discovering Friday evening when a surveillance camera caught four inmates who had removed a sheet of stainless steel in the men’s bathroom and disappeared into the wall. The incident is under investigation and charges…

Juvenile charged with arson in June 13 Barfield Road fire

June 22, 2012

The State Fire Marshal’s Office confirmed Tuesday afternoon that a juvenile has been charged with one count of arson in connection with the June 13 fire that destroyed a vacant building at 19677 SW Barfield Road in Calhoun County. Spokesperson Deborah Cox said a flammable…

Passenger seriously injured when car rolls several times

June 15, 2012

A Panama City man was not badly hurt but his passenger suffered serious injuries after their vehicle overturned several times on SR 12, east of County Road 1641 just before midnight Thursday in Liberty County. James Kyle Brown of Panama City was traveling west on…

Terry Stone, Kathy Brown, Patricia Whitfield & Jim Johnson unopposed Candidates get ready for the Aug. 14 Primary

June 15, 2012

Four candidates – including three incumbents – won’t have to hit the campaign trail this summer since they made it through qualifying week without an opponent coming forward in their race. Calhoun County Property Appraiser Terry Stone is the sole candidate in his county to…

Gov. Scott comes to Blountstown for a ‘rural roundtable’ on Monday

June 8, 2012

The Heritage Room of the Blountstown Library was the final stop on Gov. Rick Scott’s roundtable tour to discuss local economies with rural leaders Monday. The governor visited five counties and listened to some strong suggestions as well as criticism from people who have their…

Hosford man claims $3 million prize with scratch-off lottery ticket

June 8, 2012

TALLAHASSEE – The Florida Lottery announced that Donald Vickers, 60, of Hosford, claimed a $3,000,000 prize in the Gold Rush Tripler Scratch-Off game last week. He chose to receive his winnings in a one-time, lump-sum payment of $1,950,000. Vickers purchased his winning ticket at Publix,…

Neal Subdivision resident hurt in April 4 dog attack

June 1, 2012

A 50-year-old Bristol woman is still trying to recover from a serious bite she got while walking around her Neal Subdivision neighborhood last month. “I was just walking, like I’d done many times before,” said Joyce Barker. She was at the intersection of First Street…

Bristol man recovering after animal attack while walking at Lake Mystic

June 1, 2012

A dog attack during a walk around Lake Mystic last week left a Bristol man with 15 to 20 bites, a possible fractured wrist and a schedule for a series of rabies shots. “It was horrific,” said Craig Brinkley, about what happened when three or…

LIberty County High School Class of 2012

June 1, 2012

The Liberty County High School Class of 2012 gave speeches, collected diplomas, shed a few tears and posed for photos as they ended their high school careers with graduation ceremonies Friday night in Bristol.

Woman suffers head injury after mishap at boat ramp Saturday

May 25, 2012

A Bristol woman was flown by emergency helicopter to a Tallahassee hospital after she sustained a serious head wound when she got out of a truck that was rolling down a boat ramp Saturday night. Liberty County Deputy Darrell D. Johnson, II was dispatched to…

Poker Run raises funds for 4-H campers

May 25, 2012

Riders enjoyed the day and raised money for a good cause when they gathered at Veterans Memorial Civic Center in Bristol for a Poker Run on Saturday. There were 25 riders with 11 passengers taking part. The group raised approximately $800 which will be used…

Driver charged with DUI after crash near bridge

May 25, 2012

A Friday night wreck just east of the Apalachicola River bridge in Bristol damaged a pickup truck and a guardrail, blocked traffic for nearly an hour and sent a man to jail for driving under the influence. Jimmy Allen O’Bryan, 49, of Turkey Creek Road…

First Annual Catfish Crawl 5K reels in a crowd

May 25, 2012

The First Annual Blountstown Fire Department Catfish Crawl 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run was an awesome success! One hundred and twenty-four registered runners, more than half from out of town, converged on the Depot Park and made tracks down the Blountstown Greenway Bike Path…

Bristol man sentenced to life after kidnapping conviction

May 18, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor A man who called 911 and said he found a severely injured woman propped up against a tree in the woods not far from his home in Liberty County was convicted last week of kidnapping and ordered to serve life…

Altha man charged with battery in parking lot altercation

May 11, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor A 25-year-old Altha man was arrested for battery after witnesses called the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office to report that a man was attacking a woman in a car in the parking lot of Smith’s Grocery Sunday afternoon. Witnesses said they…

Candidate list updated after deadline to file by petition

May 11, 2012

A few more names have been added to the list of candidates hoping to win office in this year’s election as the time to file by petition ends. The latest to announce their intent to run in Calhoun County include Carla Hand, who is seeking…

FDLE to open new investigation into McLemore death in Bristol

May 11, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is taking a closer look at the death of Tranum McLemore. The agency was called to the scene the night McLemore’s body was found on the bedroom floor of his Bristol home with three…

Manspeaker named new Health Department Director

May 4, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor Rachel Manspeaker, 40, began her duties Monday as the new Director of the Calhoun and Liberty County Health Departments. The Bristol native holds two master’s degrees, one in nursing, and one in Business Administration/Heath Care Management. “Public health has always…

Bristol man killed in Saturday wreck

May 4, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor A 26-year-old Bristol man was killed Saturday when his truck went off the road in Gadsden County, hit several trees and overturned. The Florida Highway Patrol identified the fatality as Preston Michael Myers. According to the accident report, Myers was…

Car rear-ends van stopped in construction zone

May 4, 2012

A Bristol driver was charged with careless driving after four vehicles were involved in chain-reaction mishap along a construction zone in Calhoun County Friday morning. According to FHP Trooper Liz Condo-Varner, three vehicles were waiting in line for their turn to proceed along a single-lane…

Blountstown man charged in Chattahoochee shooting

April 27, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor A Blountstown man is facing charges of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and shooting into an occupied dwelling after an argument in Chattahoochee ended with a man being shot in the leg. Desmon Antwan Martin, 23, was taken into…

FSU student bitten by snake while hiking at Torreya Park

April 27, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor A 22-year-old FSU student remained under observation at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital Tuesday afternoon, two days after she was taken by ambulance from Torreya State Park where she was bitten by a snake. “She stepped on what appeared to be a…

Candidate update

April 27, 2012

One new candidate has joined the field of hopefuls vying for office in the upcoming Liberty County Elections while more have come forward to declare their intent to seek public office in Calhoun County. •Sharon Revell Mackey (D) filed her intent to run on Monday.…

Sheriff’s Office releases report on death of Tranum McLemore

April 20, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor BRISTOL – The Liberty County Sheriff’s Office released the report on the death of Tranum McLemore Tuesday afternoon. Sheriff Donnie Conyers said he is satisfied that McLemore, who was found facedown on his bedroom floor with three bullet wounds –…

Brother asks for new investigation

April 20, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor A Dothan, AL man has a lot of questions about the night his half-brother, Tranum McLemore, 35, died at the Bristol home where he lived with his wife, Winter, and their three young daughters, who are two, five and 10…

Altha men convicted in federal court for drug conspiracy

April 20, 2012

TALLAHASSEE - By jury verdicts returned at 8:30 last Friday night in the U.S. District Court in Tallahassee, Jose Misael Garfias-Garcia, 33, and Miguel Angel Moreno-Ortega, 25, both of Altha, Florida, were convicted of conspiring to distribute cocaine and marijuana. Evidence at trial showed that…

McLemore’s brother, uncle both question account of shooting

April 13, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor Klenton McLemore, whose brother, Tranum McLemore died at his Bristol home last week in what authorities say was a suicide, finds it hard to believe he took his own life. In television interviews Monday night, he said that “something just…

Wife describes night that ended with Tranum McLemore’s death

April 13, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor BRISTOL – Winter McLemore remembers her husband, Tranum, as a good man who loved their three little girls. “He loved playing ball outside with them, wrestling on the floor with them, and playing games with them,” she said. He had…

Sheriff says McLemore’s death was a suicide; two other wounds plus fatal head wound found on body

April 6, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Editor Calhoun-Liberty Journal The death of Blountstown Middle School Coach Tranum McLemore, whose body was found in his Bristol home Wednesday, was the result of a self-inflicted gunshot to the head, according to Liberty County Sheriff Donnie Conyers. Two other gunshot wounds…

Broadband meeting set April 10 in Blountstown

April 6, 2012

BLOUNTSTOWN – Two centuries ago, this early town on the western bank of the Apalachicola River was a center for trade. Local Native Americans bartered goods to English and American trading companies and those goods flowed north to Columbus, Georgia and south to the Gulf…

Naked man arrested after disturbance at Camel Lake Saturday

April 6, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor A man under the influence of mushrooms ran naked and screaming through the campground at Camel Lake before being arrested after a foot chase and taken into custody with the assistance of another camper, according to a report from the…

Five mailboxes hit, three vehicles damaged & two poles knocked down in mishap

March 30, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor A Clarksville man backing up a log truck with an empty trailer set off a chain of events along SR 73 last week that left a trooper scratching his head trying to figure out what happened. Remarkably, no one was…

Bike Tour

March 30, 2012

More than 600 bicycle riders made their way through Liberty and Calhoun County Monday during the 2012 Forgotten Coast Tour, organized by Bike Florida. One of the many riders who stopped to sign the guest book at the Depot Museum in Blountstown is shown at…

Hosford man facing child abuse and battery charges following altercation

March 23, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor A Hosford man is facing several charges following an altercation in which he hit a man, grabbed a child from a stroller and then resumed fighting while still holding the child, according to a report from the Liberty County Sheriff’s…

Hiers sentenced to 6 months in prison, 3 months home confinement

March 16, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor Former C&L Bank President Jed Hiers was sentenced to six months in prison, followed by three months of home confinement and three years of supervised release after prison during a sentencing hearing that lasted over three hours last Thursday in…

Broadband Network installation starts soon

March 16, 2012

from Opportunity Florida MARIANNA – The interior of this hollowed-out 30-year-old factory building looks more like a scene from NASA than the sewing operation that originally occupied the facility. Within this abandoned 31,000 sq. ft. building in the Marianna Industrial Park, rows of white and…

Blaze destroys Bristol home

March 16, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor A fire that destroyed the home of Jim and Celeste Shuler is believed to have started in the carport where a truck was parked, according to Bristol firefighter Richard Mims. He said the four-bedroom home was fully engulfed when firefighters…

Futch files intent to run for sheriff in Calhoun; Brown seeks Clerk’s job in Liberty race

March 12, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor Three new names have been added to the list of candidates hoping to win new jobs in the upcoming election. •Former Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office Capt. Ken Futch has filed his intent to run for Calhoun County Sheriff. He recently…

Man charged with trying to smuggle smoking incense into Liberty County Jail

March 12, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor A Hosford man who brought toiletry items for his brother at the Liberty County Jail found himself on the other side of the bars after a bag of synthetic marijuana was discovered hidden inside an Old Spice Body Wash bottle.…

Price, Daniels among those honored at Calhoun Chamber banquet Thurs.

March 2, 2012

by Kristy Terry, Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce Director BLOUNTSTOWN – The 65th Annual Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce Membership Banquet was held Thursday, Feb. 23rd at the W.T. Neal Civic Center. The evening began with a reception featuring historic photos and newspaper clippings, followed…

Eighteen Calhoun candidates, four in Liberty declare intent to seek office in 2012 election

March 2, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor Election day may be far away and qualifying doesn’t even start until the first week of June but candidates are already coming forward to declare their intent to run for office. Twelve offices will be on the ballot in each…

Hill announces plans to seek the Dist. 7 seat

March 2, 2012

Liberty County Clerk of Court Robert Hill says he will seek the District 7 seat in the Florida House of Representatives after redistricting left Liberty County without an incumbent. Hill, who is completing his third term as Clerk, said he had already planned to retire…

Clarksville man dies in fiery crash near Calhoun County line

March 2, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor A 44-year-old Clarksville man was killed and his truck burned after he crashed into a wooded area off the road sometime after 10 p.m. Friday night. The fatality was identified as James Swain. Firefighters arrived to find little more than…

Teens arrested for break-ins; Pair charged with robbing Jackson County homes

February 24, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor Two Gadsden County teens linked to numerous area break-ins, including eight in Liberty County, two in Calhoun County, six in Jackson County (along with one attempt) and two in Gadsden County, were arrested last week. Xavier Darcus Parks, 18, and…

St. Joe leases land to ship-building group for expansion

February 24, 2012

WATERSOUND – The St. Joe Company (NYSE: JOE – News) announced that it will lease 20 acres of its former paper mill site in Port St. Joe to Eastern Shipbuilding Group (ESG) of Panama City. ESG plans to expand its existing shipbuilding, vessel construction and…

Sanctuary founder Betsy Knight dies at 73, leaving behind a legacy of love for wildlife

February 24, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor “Take it to Betsy.” That’s what was said when injured and abandoned animals were found in this part of the Florida Panhandle for years and that’s how many of us first met Betsy Knight. Baby birds who had taken a…

Blountstown’s Laura Davis on primary care track at FSU

February 17, 2012

By Doug Blackburn Reprinted with permission from the Tallahassee Democrat Her mother calls Laura Davis “just a regular, small-town girl.” There are other ways to describe Davis, a third-year medical school student at Florida State University. She is, by all accounts, a poster child for…

Hosford’s Ann Marie Brown wins Big Bend Spelling Bee…again!

February 17, 2012

Ann Marie Brown of Hosford won the Tallahassee Democrat Big Bend Regional Spelling Bee Saturday. Just like she did last year. Her winning word was “homogeneous.” She took the competition in the 20th round. The 14-year-old is an eighth grade student at W.R. Tolar School…

Two Bristol homes robbed; attempt made on another

February 17, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor Two Bristol houses were robbed and another homeowner came face-to-face with a would-be intruder peering into his window Tuesday afternoon. Lamar Holland, 70, said he came downstairs just before 1:30 p.m., walked into his kitchen, happened to look out the…

NEWS ALERT Two suspects in custody; other arrests possible in Liberty County burglaries

February 15, 2012

Two men are in custody today in connection with the recent rash of Liberty County home break-ins and other arrests are possible, according to Liberty County Sheriff Donnie Conyers. He said local Task Force members were in the Chattahoochee area around noon when two suspects…

Series of break-ins reported in Calhoun and Liberty

February 10, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor Thousands of dollars’ worth of property – including guns, jewelry, TVs and game consoles – have been stolen in recent burglaries in the Calhoun and Liberty County area. Three of the break-ins happened in Calhoun County. Three more were discovered…

Altha man charged with trying to stab trooper, resisting arrest

February 10, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor John Derek Sangster, 57, had a lot of people worried Monday morning as he stood in front of the Chevron Station in Altha, swinging a hand saw and acting in what many saw as a threatening manner. Including FHP Trooper…

Hosford fire

February 3, 2012

A large shed behind a Burlington Road home in Hosford burned Saturday after a car parked under it caught fire. The blaze began shortly after Jackelene Pullam drove home. The car, shown below left, along with a boat, a Gator utility vehicle, a riding lawn…

Investigation into inmate’s accusations inconclusive; Calhoun County booking officer turns in resignation

February 3, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor A booking officer with the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office accused of inappropriate behavior by a female inmate will not be facing charges after a seven week internal investigation resulted in an inconclusive finding. Melissa Ann Terry, 34, was taken to…

Girls arrested after taking a Hosford School bus for joy ride

February 3, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor Two teenage girls are facing charges of felony grand theft and trespassing on school grounds after they stole a school bus and took it on a joy ride through Hosford Sunday night, according to a report from the Liberty County…

Altha native honored for terrorist attack response

January 26, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor Altha native Lamar Conner, 53, was taking a quick smoke break from his job as a customer service agent at Frankfurt airport in Germany last March when he heard shots and turned to see a man stumbling out of a…

ID sought for pedestrian killed in collision with truck in Quincy

January 20, 2012

The Florida Highway Patrol is seeking help in identifying a man killed in Quincy Monday night when he was hit by a truck. William Larimore, 30, of Carrabelle, was eastbound on US 90 at 10:05 p.m., approaching Ben Bostick Road, when his 2000 Ford F-150…

Company planning to build five solar farms in Liberty County

January 20, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor Liberty County’s economic future just got a little brighter with the news that a Melbourne-based company plans to build five 200-acre solar farms here. National Solar Power CEO James Scrivener made the announcement at Monday night’s Liberty County Chamber of…

Florida High School grades announced

January 13, 2012

TALLAHASSEE – Florida’s high schools increased in the number and percent of schools achieving high marks for the 2010-11 school year, according to results just released from the Florida Department of Education. Results show that 78 percent of the state’s high schools earned either an…

Paramedic injured in wreck on way to work Tuesday

January 13, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor A Liberty County paramedic didn’t make it to work but her co-workers came to her aid after she lost control of her car and hit a tree Tuesday morning in Bristol. Melissa Brown, 42, of Bristol was traveling east on…

Clarkville resident dies in Friday night accident

January 12, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor A Clarksville man died on the way to the hospital after he was injured in a single-vehicle accident on Newsome Road in Calhoun County Friday night. Forensic Investigator Becki Fejes with the Bay County Medical Examiner’s Office said John Michael…

National Solar Power CEO to speak at Liberty Chamber banquet

January 6, 2012

James Scrivener, CEO of National Solar Power, will be the guest speaker at the Liberty County Chamber of Commerce annual banquet on Monday, Jan. 16. The banquet, which will be followed by the general membership meeting, will begin at 7 p.m. and is being held…

Liberty Co. inmate escapes through unlocked jail door

January 6, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor BRISTOL — A 25-year-old man arrested last month for manufacturing methamphetamine had a few hours of freedom when he escaped from the Liberty County Jail after discovering an unsecured door. Daniel M. Brown of Vermilion, LA, was downstairs with other…

Two Liberty Co. men charged with stealing boat, stove & copper wiring

January 6, 2012

by Teresa Eubanks, Journal Editor BRISTOL — Two 19-year-old Liberty County residents were arrested Dec. 29 for the theft of an aluminum boat, a four-burner wood stove and an estimated $3,000 worth of copper wiring. James Tipton and Jessie William Hobby were charged with grand…

Liberty County kids find something extra under the Christmas tree

December 30, 2011

Liberty County Sheriff Donnie Conyers and Phillip Jones, pastor of the First Baptist Church of Bristol, are shown just before packing up a roomful of toys collected for children in the community who might not otherwise find anything under the Christmas tree this year. The…

Assisted living operator, 75, arrested for grand theft and exploitation of an elderly/disabled adult

December 30, 2011

Joyce Daughtrey, 75, of Bristol was arrested last week for grand theft and exploitation of an elderly and disabled adult, according to a news release from the Attorney General’s office. She is charged with stealing $9,500 by withholding the victim’s Social Security funds and his…

Man charged with retail theft for taking $4.99 item from store

December 30, 2011

A Blountstown man is charged with retail theft after a store surveillance camera caught him taking an item valued as less than $5, according to a report from the Blountstown Police Department. Shane Tolliver Whitfield, 43, of Blountstown, was sitting at the counter at the…

Man charged after hitting wall and resisting arrest

December 30, 2011

A 34-year-old man found in the midst of a loud argument with a woman at a residence on River Street was taken into custody after refusing to comply with a police officer and resisting arrest. Octavio Torres Garcia was charged with disorderly intoxication and resisting…

House guest steals host’s pickup truck

December 30, 2011

A man who showed up uninvited asking for a place to stay for the night didn’t leave empty handed. The next morning, he stole his host’s truck, according to a report from the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office. Chet Geiger said he let Daniel Brown, 22,…

Man arrested after witnesses confirm he knocked down wife and took phone

December 30, 2011

A 29-year-old Blountstown man is charged with domestic battery after his estranged wife said he threw her on the ground and then dragged her into the house by her feet when she tried to get away from him, according to a report from the Calhoun…

Evicted tenant arrested for rental trailer destruction

December 30, 2011

A problem tenant who had been evicted from a residence at Junction Trailer Park but allowed to return for a night has been charged with criminal mischief for destroying the kitchen, according to a report from the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office. The sheriff’s office was…

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