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October 1, 2009

MARIANNA—Registration for Fall Term C at Chipola College is Oct. 15. Classes begin Oct. 16 and run through Dec. 16.

College officials added the C term to the Fall semester of classes to give students another opportunity to enroll. The six weeks term is open to new students and to those currently enrolled.

The following courses will be offered: American History to 1865, (AMH 2010), 3 hours, online; Introduction to Biological Science (BSC 1005), 3 hours, 12-1:50 p.m., Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday; Microcomputer Applications for Business and Economics (CGS 1100), 3 hours, partially online; Human Growth and Development, (DEP 2004), 3 hours, online; Communications Skills I, (ENC 1101), 4 hours, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday; Introduction to International Business (GEB 3356), 3 hours, online; Business Internship (GEB 3940), TBA; Humanities with Writing (HUM 2216), 4 hours credit, online; College Algebra (MAC 1105), 3 hours, 5:30-8:30p.m., Monday and Thursday; Math for Liberal Arts II (MGF 1107), 3 hours, 12-1:50 p.m., Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday; Business Statistics (QMB 2100), 3 hours, 4-5:50 p.m., Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday; Advanced Reading (REA 1205), 2 hours, 12-1:50 p.m., Monday and Wednesday; Orientation (SLS 1101), 1hour, 6-9 p.m., Wednesday, and Intermediate Spanish I (SPN 2220), 4 hours, 2-3:50 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.

For more information, call 850-718-2311, or visit www.chipola.edu.

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CHIPOLA COLLEGE OFFERING TERM C— Registration for Fall Term C at Chipola College is Oct. 15. Classes begin Oct. 16 and run through Dec. 16. Here, Chipola student Sami Marotta from Liberty County, studies between classes. For more information, call 850-718-2311, or visit www.chipola.edu.

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October 1, 2009

CHIPOLA INVITES SINGERS TO JOIN CHAMBER CHORUS

MARIANNA—The Chipola College Chamber Chorus invites all area singers to join with the chorus in singing a portion of their upcoming Fall Concert.

Rehearsals will be held Monday evenings from 6 to 8 p.m., Nov. 2, 9, and 16, and Saturday, Nov. 21, at 10 a.m. The performance is set for Sunday, Nov 22, at 2:30 p.m., in the Chipola Arts Center.

The program will include Handel selections as well as a benediction by Peter Lutkin. Community chorus members will join in singing several movements of Coronation Anthems 2 and 3.

The Chamber Chorus is under the direction of Bethany Kiral and accompanied by Dr. Joshua Martin.

According to Joan Stadsklev, Director of Fine and Performing Arts, “It is always such a pleasure to have community members participate with us.”

Music, rehearsal CD’s and other information will be available beginning Oct. 12 for pick-up in the Music Office in the Fine Arts Building.

Material also may be mailed by contacting Joan Stadsklev at stadsklevj@chipola.edu or by phone at 850-718-2301.

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October 1, 2009

PINE WEAVER TO PRESENT PROGRAM AT CRAA MEETING

MARIANNA—The public is invited to the Chipola Regional Arts Association meeting at Jim’s Buffet, Tuesday, Oct. 20, at 11:30 a.m.

Pine-weaver Lynn D. Crain will present a program about baskets and wall art made from pine needles.

Creative in many art forms including string art, flower arrangement, decorating with plants, and crewel tapestries, pine needle weaving is now her primary craft which has evolved into award-winning baskets and wall hangings. Crain loves color in her baskets and wall art and will share how color is introduced and utilized.

She says, “There are no set patterns or designs written somewhere. My mind and heart start the baskets, and the baskets always finish themselves. I am always trying something new, something different, the colors, stitching, combinations, shapes, styles, media and ideas.” For information, visit www.pineweaver.com.

For information on the Oct. 20 meeting, contact Homer Hirt at 850-593-6907.

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October 1, 2009

PUBLIC INVITED TO OCTOBER 8 MEETING OF BLUE SPRINGS GROUP

MARIANNA—The public is invited to attend a meeting of the Jackson Blue Spring Basin Working Group, Thursday, Oct. 8, in the Continuing Education Building Conference Room at Chipola College.

Presentations begin at 9 a.m. and run until 1 p.m.

Chuck Hatcher, Director of Jackson County Parks and Recycling, will give an update on Blue Springs Park. Edd Sorenson will discuss Cave System Exploration.

Russell Williams, Jackson County Springs Ambassador, will give an update of the ambassador program.

Chipola science professor Allan Tidwell, Working Group Project Coordinator, will present the Springs Champion Award.

Charles Pattison will present the Community Steward Award and give an update on 1000 Friends of Florida Springs Activities.

Deanna Green, Planning Technician for Wakulla County, will discuss Wakulla Springs protection.

Jackson County Commissioner Jeremy Branch will report on Blue Springs related issues.

Chipola professors Santine Cuccio and David Hilton will provide an update on the Chipola Area Groundwater Outreach Project.

For information, contact Allan Tidwell at 850-718-2761, Ext. 3248 or email tidwella@chipola.edu .

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October 1, 2009

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GREEN IS TOP EMPLOYEE—Dianne Green is Chipola College’s Career Employee for October. Green serves as the Physical Plant/Residence Hall Coordinator and has worked at the college since 2003. Here, Green is congratulated by Chipola president Dr. Gene Prough.

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October 1, 2009

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CHIPOLA IN REHEARSAL FOR “MUSCIAL COMEDY MURDERS OF 1940”—Chipola College Theater is in full rehearsal for the upcoming, “Musical Comedy Murders of 1940.” Performances of the show are set for Nov. 5-9. Pictured from left, are actors: Kristina Lopez, Kayla Todd, Piper Williams, Brenna Kneiss and Sarah Lovins. The comic romp pokes fun at the more ridiculous aspects of "show biz" and the corny thrillers of Hollywood's heyday. For information, call Theatre director Charles Sirmon at 850-718-2227, or email sirmons@chipola.edu.

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October 1, 2009

CHIPOLA CROSS COUNTRY PLACES FIFTH AT LaGRANGE MEET

LaGRANGE, GA—The Chipola College Cross Country team finished fifth in a meet at LaGrange College on Sept. 26.

A total of 12 colleges entered the meet with nine eligible for scoring. The venue was primarily trails around West Point Lake.

Rebecca Honeycutt Cappeleman was the top runner for the Lady Indians, finishing 20^th out of 60 runners with a time of 29:58 in the 6K race. All five Lady Indians improved their mile split times by at least 30 seconds.

Chipola team members are Rebecca Honeycutt Cappelman, Sylvianna Garrett, MacKenzie Willis, Maggie Mathis and Kaylee Hatcher. Rance Massengill coaches the team.

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CHIPOLA CROSS COUNTRY—The Chipola College Cross Country team finished fifth in a meet at LaGrange College on Sept. 26. Chipola team members are, from left: Rebecca Honeycutt Cappelman, Sylvianna Garrett, Kaylee Hatcher, Maggie Mathis and MacKenzie Willis.

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October 1, 2009

CHIPOLA CROSS COUNTRY PLACES FIFTH AT LaGRANGE MEET

LaGRANGE, GA—The Chipola College Cross Country team finished fifth in a meet at LaGrange College on Sept. 26.

A total of 12 colleges entered the meet with nine eligible for scoring. The venue was primarily trails around West Point Lake.

Chipola team members are Rebecca Honeycutt Cappelman, Sylvianna Garrett, MacKenzie Willis, Maggie Mathis and Kaylee Hatcher. Rance Massengill coaches the team.

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October 8, 2009

CHIPOLA OFFERS COMPUTER SYSTEMS TECH PROGRAMS

MARIANNA—As computer use continues to grow in our society, so does the need for individuals who are educated in areas of computer technology.

Chipola College offers a Computer Systems Technology Certificate program, as well as a Networking Systems Technology Associate in Science degree program. The NST program is a two year degree. The CST program is a 1,650 clock hour certificate program which emphasizes hands on experience and puts the student in class 30 hours a week.

Both programs help to pave the way to students receiving their Comp TIA A+ and Network+ certifications, among others. The A+ certification covers set-up and repair of desktop computers and laptops. The Network+ certification covers repair and setup of computer networks. One of the main goals of the Chipola program is to prepare students for certification exams. Dean Giles, the instructor for these two programs, choose his text, TestOut’s LabSim, for this reason. The text offers lecture videos, demonstration videos, lab simulations, fact sheets and exams. Each book comes with a DVD so that students may pause or rewind at their own pace. The LabSim text also offers a practice certification exam at the end of the course to prepare students for the actual exam.

According to instructor Giles, “Once a student has completed the program they can pursue jobs in the technology field. Many companies need technical support and as the use of computers in business grows so is the need for information technology technicians. Certification is a very useful tool when seeking a job, so Chipola encourages students to take their certification exams as soon as they finish the program, while the material is fresh and they have the opportunity to take the test for a discounted price.”

For more information on this program, contact Dean Giles at (850)718-2392 or e-mail gilesd@chipola.edu. For financial aid information, phone 850-718-2366, or visit www.chipola.edu.

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CHIPOLA’S COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY SYSTEMS—Chipola College offers a Computer Systems Technology Certificate program and a Networking Systems Technology Associate in Science degree program. Pictured from left are: Joseph Phinney of Blountstown, Zachary Folks of Grand Ridge and instructor Dean Giles. For more information, contact Dean Giles at (850)718-2392 or e-mail gilesd@chipola.edu.

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October 8, 2009

CHIPOLA BRAIN BOWL TEAMS DEBUT WITH WIN OVER UGA

COLUMBIA, SC—The Chipola Brain Bowl Teams played for the first time this season in Columbia, South Carolina, Oct. 2.

Both Chipola teams had strong showings at the tournament. Chipola A finished 7-5, with a big win over the University of Georgia, which finished the tournament with only two losses. Chipola B finished 5-7 in their first tournament ever.

Two Chipola players received individual awards. Dallin Kelson finished fourth overall and Ethan Hewett finished twelfth.

Chipola A Team members are: Ethan Hewett, Cody Pickens, Drew Padgett and Nathan Hooppell. Chipola B Team members are: Dallin Kelson, Daniel Leonard, Brittany Stephens and Max Herndon.

Stan Young and Dr. Robert Dunkle coach the two-time defending state champion Chipola team.

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CHIPOLA BRAIN BOWL TEAMS DEBUT WITH WIN OVER UGA—The Chipola Brain Bowl Teams played for the first time this season in Columbia, South Carolina, Oct. 2. Chipola A Team members are, from left: Nathan Hooppell, Ethan Hewett, Cody Pickens and Drew Padgett. Chipola A finished 7-5, with a big win over the University of Georgia.

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October 8, 2009

GEEKS HELP @ CHIPOLA LAUNCHES COMPUTER TRAINING INITIATIVE

MARIANNA—Local technology training company Geeks Help, LLC, in partnership with the Continuing Education department at Chipola College, is offering several informational seminars and hands-on workshops during the Fall semester. All workshops are open to the public and several are free of charge.

Geeks Help is an LLC partnership between computer experts Matt White and Glenda Bethel. White is a Microsoft Certified professional. Bethel has experience in computer networking and consulting.

Geeks Help, LLC and the Chipola Continuing Education department will hold a press conference, Wednesday, Oct. 14, at 10 a.m., to kick off a new computer training initiative of seminars and workshops at the college. The press conference will be held in the Continuing Education Conference Center on College Street.

Marianna Police Chief Hayes Baggett and representatives from the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department are expected to attend the press conference in support of the upcoming Identity Theft Seminar on Oct. 20. Representatives from Fast Lane Computers also will be on hand in support of the Oct. 29 Windows 7 Launch Party.

The first Geeks Help event is a free Identity Theft seminar on Tuesday, Oct. 20, from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. in the Continuing Education Conference Center at Chipola. The seminar is free and open to the public, and refreshments will be served.

This objective of the seminar is to raise awareness about identity theft and to inform individuals about the websites, databases and agencies that can help lessen the impact of an identity exposure. In keeping with this objective, law enforcement representatives from the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and the City of Marianna Police Department will be on hand to offer suggestions and to answer questions from the audience.

Identity theft can happen to anyone. Any individual who has been issued a Social Security number is at risk for identity theft, from young children to the elderly. Businesses owners who collect information about customers or employees have special risks.

According to the FBI, “The sources of information about you are so numerous that you cannot prevent the theft of your identity. But you can minimize your risk of loss by following a few simple hints.” The seminar will present that information to help individuals and businesses prepare and lessen the damage.

The following Geeks Help seminars and workshops are scheduled for the Fall semester:

Identity Theft Seminar, Tuesday, Oct. 20, 6 p.m. until 8 p.m., FREE; Windows 7 Launch Party seminar, Thursday, Oct. 29, 6 to 8 p.m., FREE; Basic Computer Operations I seminar, Thursday, Oct. 29, 10 a.m. to noon, $25; Electronics Purchasing Help seminar, Thursday, Oct. 29, 1 to 3 p.m., $25; Basic Computer Operations II workshop, Friday, Nov. 6, 9 a.m. to noon, $60; Social Networking seminar, Thursday, Nov. 12, 6 to 8 p.m., $25; Beginning Word 2007 workshop, Saturday, Nov. 21, 9 a.m. to noon, $60; Electronics Purchasing Help seminar, Saturday, Nov. 21, 1 to 3 p.m., $25.
Workshop space is limited. Pre-registration for paid events is encouraged to secure a spot. Registration through the website is preferred with credit cards accepted through the PayPal secure payment system. Staff will be on-site 30 minutes prior to each event to register individuals and to receive other methods of payment.

For more information, contact Geeks Help LLC at 850-718-7563, or visit www.geekshelp.com.

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October 8, 2009

CHIPOLA COLLEGE TERM C REGISTRATION IS OCT. 15

MARIANNA—Chipola College officials have added a new “C” term during the Fall semester to give students another opportunity to enroll in classes.

Registration is Thursday, Oct. 15, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Classes begin Oct. 16 and run through Dec. 16. Late registration for Term C continues on Friday, Oct. 16, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For more information, call 850-718-2311, or visit www.chipola.edu.

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October 8, 2009

CHIPOLA TO HOST SEMINARS ON STUDENT LEADERSHIP

MARIANNA—The Chipola College Academic Center for Excellence (ACE) will present two Academic Success Workshops, Wednesday, Oct. 14, at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. in Jackson Lecture Hall in the Literature and Language Building Z.

The 10 a.m. workshop is entitled, "So You Want to be a Leader? What Every College Student Should Know.” The 1 p.m. workshop is entitled, “Leadership & Service Learning.”

Dr. Earl Paul of Hillsborough Community College is the guest speaker for both workshops which will cover leadership, character, goal setting and motivation. Dr. Paul also will discuss soft skills like classroom etiquette, effective and appropriate e-mails and phone calls and other basic skills for the successful college student. Dr. Paul has written a book, "So You Want to be a Leader? What Every College Student Should Know.”

Dr. Paul works in student affairs and is a faculty member at Hillsborough Community College in Tampa. Along with his college career, he is a speaker, an author and a radio talk show host.

Dr. Paul earned a Ph.D. in Adult Education at the University of South Florida. He also has a Bachelor’s degree in English Education a Master's degree in Student Personnel/Counseling.

For information about the seminars, call Ext. 526-2761, Ext. 3247.

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October 8, 2009

CHIPOLA SCHOLARSHIPS STILL AVAILABLE FOR COMPUTER MAJORS

MARIANNA—College students interested in computers and information technology are encouraged to apply by Oct. 22 for a new scholarship program at Chipola College.

Chipola is the recipient of a $50,000 grant to promote and fund "WIRED for Technology" scholarships for students enrolled in several computer-related programs.

The scholarships were awarded 13 students during the fall 2009 semester. Applications for the spring 2010 semester will be accepted through October 22.

Scholarships are available for Associate in Arts (AA) degrees in Computer Science and Information Technology. AA students typically take classes for two years and then transfer to a university to complete the junior and senior years of a bachelor’s degree.

Associate in Science (AS) degrees in Computer Engineering Technology, Computer Information Technology, and Networking Services Technology are also included among the eligible programs. AS degrees are designed to prepare students for careers after taking one to two years of coursework.

Scholarships are also available for Workforce Certificate program in Computer Systems Technology which can be completed in as little as one year.

The new Scholarships may fund all or part of costs for tuition, fees, textbooks and software for students in technology or computer-related majors or programs of study. The scholarships may be awarded in addition to other scholarships or grants; however, the selection panel will also consider other funds available to students through the Foundation or Financial Aid Office. The scholarships will be available only for the 2009-10 school year.

The WIRED for Technology project is being funded by the U.S. Department of Labor through a consortium of panhandle colleges in partnership with the University of West Florida and Florida's Great Northwest.

For information about the scholarships at Chipola, contact Gail Hartzog or Pat Barfield at 850-718-2342 or email: hartzogg@chipola.edu or Nancy Burns at 850-526-2761 or email: burnsn@chipola.edu .

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October 8, 2009

CHIPOLA COLLEGE SENIOR DAY IS OCT. 14

MARIANNA—Chipola College Student Ambassadors will host 1,000 area high school seniors from Calhoun, Holmes, Jackson, Liberty and Washington counties for Senior Day, Oct. 14.

The day’s events will include performances by the Chipola cheerleaders, men’s

and women’s basketball teams beginning at 9:15 a.m. in the Milton H. Johnson Health Center. Seniors will tour of campus beginning at 9:50 a.m. with performances by show choir, jazz band and theater along the way. .

Seniors also will be treated to lunch at the gym beginning at 11:45 a.m., and will depart for their schools by 1:30 p.m.

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October 8, 2009

MARIANNA DONATES FIRE TRUCK TO CHIPOLA

MARIANNA—The City of Marianna and Marianna Fire and Rescue recently donated a complete 1991 Fire Engine to the Chipola College Fire Science program.

As Chipola Fire Science Coordinator Martin Fowler accepted the keys from Marianna Chief Byron Bennett, Fowler, said, “Engine 43 will greatly compliment the college’s ability to facilitate realistic training on modern equipment thereby making our students competent in an array of fire fighting skills.

Chipola Public Service Programs Director Charlie Crawford echoed Fowler’s excitement resulting from the tremendous training enhancement that the new engine will bring.

The engine complete with fire apparatus, ladders, lights, generator, water pumps and tanks will be put into service by the college immediately. The engine will be made available to the city in case of emergency.

Students in the college Automotive Technology program will maintain the truck engine and drive train.

Workforce Dean Bud Riviere expressed his appreciation to the City of Marianna and to Chief Bennett, saying, “We have developed an excellent, collaborative working relationship with the Marianna Fire Department over the years through the training venue and use of city fire equipment and engines in the Fire Science Program.”

For information on becoming a fire fighting student, call Chief Martin Fowler at 718-2483.

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MARIANNA DONATES FIRE TRUCK TO CHIPOLA—The City of Marianna and Marianna Fire and Rescue recently donated a complete 1991 Fire Engine to the Chipola College Fire Science program. Pictured from left, are: Charlie Crawford, Director of Chipola Public Service Programs; Byron Bennett, Chief of Marianna Fire and Rescue; Martin Fowler, Coordinator of Chipola Fire Science Programs; and Bud Riviere, Dean of Chipola’s Workforce Development programs.

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October 8, 2009

CHAD TAYLOR RECEIVES STEWARD AWARD FROM 1000 FRIENDS OF FLORIDA

MARIANNA—Local farmer and conservationist Chad Taylor was presented the 1000 Friends of Florida’s Community Steward Award at the Oct. 8 meeting of the Jackson Blue Spring Basin Working Group.

“Chad is a remarkable individual,” notes 1000 Friends President Charles Pattison, who will be presenting the award. “He has been a leader on some of the most pressing planning and environmental issues facing rural Northwest Florida.”
A land manager of farm and forestland, a conservationist and engaged citizen, Taylor was nominated for the award by Jim Stevenson, the Wakulla Spring Basin Working Group Coordinator. Stevenson notes that Chad has been the catalyst for many major planning projects in Jackson County, which is the largest peanut-producing county in Florida, and one of the largest in the Nation. The county is also home to more springs than any other county served by the Northwest Florida Water Management District. Stevenson explains that Chad’s agricultural experience has been very valuable, particularly in dealing with water quality protection issues. “Chad has educated springs protection specialists about farming in spring basins and has been a liaison between agencies and the farming community.”

Among his accomplishments, Chad worked with many other citizens and organizations to help organize, locate funding, and ensure the successful completion of the Jackson County Visioning Project, called Imagine Jackson. This countywide visioning project enabled 1,000-plus county residents to draft a 20-year blueprint for the future of the county. The process included community-based workshops and forums, visualization techniques, a community character map, a widely-distributed survey, and an interactive website.

Chad also has played an instrumental role in the formation of the Jackson Blue Spring Basin Working Group, helping to convince the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to fund the group and Chipola College to administer it. He also helped secure DEP funding for a Chipola River Springs Ambassador and found an excellent local citizen to fill the position. Chad has been a catalyst and local advocate for the Jackson County Sinkhole Amnesty Program, which educates landowners about sinkhole protection. An active member of the Apalachicola Riverkeeper, he is a current board member and former president of the group. Chad also serves on the board of RiverWay South, is a member of the Florida Springs Task Force, and has joined with other Apalachicola, Chattahoochee and Flint (ACF) river basin citizens to incorporate the recently formed ACF Stakeholders working to end the Tri-State Water War.

A natural science professor at Chipola College, Allan Tidwell also serves as Jackson Blue Spring Basin Working Group’s coordinator. “Chad is truly genuine regarding his passion about preserving and protecting the environment, particularly our water resources,” says Tidwell. “With regard to groundwater and springs protection, he practices what he preaches in every facet of his personal, business and political life.”

1000 Friends’ Pattison concurs. “With his community roots and strong sense of vision, Chad truly epitomizes the concept of ‘Community Steward.”

1000 Friends’ Community Steward Award is presented annually to individuals, organizations, local governments, agencies, and public/private partnerships that have brought about positive and lasting change in the way their community manages growth. 1000 Friends of Florida is also presenting three other awards over the course of 2009. A statewide nonprofit organization, 1000 Friends was founded in 1986 to serve as Florida’s growth management watchdog. It has been presenting awards for innovative growth management efforts since 1990.

For more information on 1000 Friends, visit www.1000friendsofflorida.org.

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TAYLOR WINS STEWARD AWARD FROM 1000 FRIENDS OF FLORIDA—Chad Taylor was presented the 1000 Friends of Florida’s Community Steward Award at the Oct. 8 meeting of the Jackson Blue Spring Basin Working Group. Pictured from left, are: Jim Stevenson, Wakulla Spring Basin Working Group Coordinator; Chad Taylor and 1000 Friends President Charles Pattison.

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October 8, 2009

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CHIPOLA IN REHEARSAL FOR “MUSCIAL COMEDY MURDERS OF 1940”—Chipola College Theater is in rehearsal for the upcoming, “Musical Comedy Murders of 1940.” Pictured from left, are: Brenna Kneiss of Chipley in the role of Nikki Crandall, and Aven Pitts of Chipley in the role of Eddie McCuen. Performances are set for Nov. 5-9. The comedy pokes fun at the ridiculous aspects of "show biz" and the corny thrillers of Hollywood's heyday. The play contains adult humor which may not be suitable for children. For information, call Theatre director Charles Sirmon at 850-718-2227, or email sirmons@chipola.edu

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October 8, 2009

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Reola Ming Bryan Scholarship—Tommy Melvin of Marianna is the recipient of the Reola Ming Bryan Scholarship at Chipola College for 2009. Here, Melvin accepts the award from Sharon McMillion, a representative of the scholarship.

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October 14, 2009

GEEKS HELP @ CHIPOLA LAUNCHES COMPUTER TRAINING INITIATIVE

PRESS CONFERENCE SET FOR OCT. 14

Geeks Help is an LLC partnership between computer experts Matt White and Glenda Bethel. White is a Microsoft Certified professional. Bethel has experience in computer networking and consulting.

Geeks Help, LLC and the Chipola Continuing Education department will hold a press conference, Wednesday, Oct. 14, at 10 a.m., to kick off a new computer training initiative of seminars and workshops at the college. The press conference will be held in the Continuing Education Conference Center on College Street.

The following Geeks Help seminars and workshops are scheduled for the Fall semester:

Identity Theft Seminar, Tuesday, Oct. 20, 6 p.m. until 8 p.m., FREE; Windows 7 Launch Party seminar, Thursday, Oct. 29, 6 to 8 p.m., FREE; Basic Computer Operations I seminar, Thursday, Oct. 29, 10 a.m. to noon, $25; Electronics Purchasing Help seminar, Thursday, Oct. 29, 1 to 3 p.m., $25; Basic Computer Operations II workshop, Friday, Nov. 6, 9 a.m. to noon, $60; Social Networking seminar, Thursday, Nov. 12, 6 to 8 p.m., $25; Beginning Word 2007 workshop, Saturday, Nov. 21, 9 a.m. to noon, $60; Electronics Purchasing Help seminar, Saturday, Nov. 21, 1 to 3 p.m., $25.
Workshop space is limited. Pre-registration for paid events is encouraged to secure a spot. Registration through the website is preferred with credit cards accepted through the PayPal secure payment system. Staff will be on-site 30 minutes prior to each event to register individuals and to receive other methods of payment.

For more information, contact Geeks Help LLC at 850-718-7563, or visit www.geekshelp.com.

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October 15, 2009

CHIPOLA COLLEGE TERM C REGISTRATION IS OCT. 15

MARIANNA—Chipola College officials have added a new “C” term during the Fall semester to give students another opportunity to enroll in classes.

Registration is Thursday, Oct. 15, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Classes begin Oct. 16 and run through Dec. 16. Late registration for Term C continues on Friday, Oct. 16, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For more information, call 850-718-2311, or visit www.chipola.edu.

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October 15, 2009

GEEKS HELP @ CHIPOLA LAUNCHES COMPUTER TRAINING INITIATIVE

MARIANNA—Local technology training company Geeks Help, LLC, in partnership with the Continuing Education department at Chipola College, launched a new computer training initiative at a press conference on Oct. 14 at the college.

Geeks Help is offering several informational seminars and hands-on workshops during the Fall semester. All workshops are open to the public and several are free of charge.

Geeks Help is an LLC partnership between computer experts Matt White and Glenda Bethel. White is a Microsoft Certified professional. Bethel has experience in computer networking and consulting.

Marianna Police Chief Hayes Baggett and representatives from the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department are supporting the upcoming Identity Theft Seminar on Oct. 20. Representatives from Fast Lane Computers are assisting with the Oct. 29 Windows 7 Launch Party.

The following Geeks Help seminars and workshops are scheduled for the Fall semester:

For more information, contact Geeks Help LLC at 850-718-7563, or visit www.geekshelp.com

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GEEKS HELP LAUNCHES AT CHIPOLA—Local technology training company Geeks Help, in partnership with the Continuing Education department at Chipola College, announced a new computer training initiative at an Oct. 14 press conference. A free Identity Theft seminar is Tuesday, Oct. 20, from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. in the Continuing Education Conference Center at Chipola. The seminar is free and open to the public, and refreshments will be served. Pictured from left, are: Jackson County Sheriff’s deputy Jami Burch, Continuing Education director Margie Williams, computer expert Glenda Bethel, Chipola president Dr. Gene Prough and computer expert Matt White.

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October 15, 2009

PINE WEAVER TO PRESENT PROGRAM AT CRAA MEETING

MARIANNA—The public is invited to the Chipola Regional Arts Association meeting at Jim’s Buffet, Tuesday, Oct. 20, at 11:30 a.m.

Pine-weaver Lynn D. Crain will present a program about baskets and wall art made from pine needles.

For information on the Oct. 20 meeting, contact Homer Hirt at 850-593-6907.

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October 15, 2009

MOFFITT CANCER RESEARCHER TO SPEAK AT CHIPOLA COLLEGE

MARIANNA—Dr. Joel Turner, a Senior Research Scientist in the Experimental Therapeutics Program at Moffitt Cancer Center, will present a program to Honors Progrma students at Chipola College on Wednesday, Oct. 21, at 1 p.m., in Jackson Hall in Building Z.

The public is invited to attend the program which will conclude at 10:50 a.m.

Dr. Turner holds a Doctorate in Cell Microbiology and Molecular Biology from the University of South Florida. He also earned a master’s degree from USF and a B.S. from the University of Wisconsin.

Dr. Turner has worked in research for 24 years, and has five years of teaching experience. During his career he has co-authored 37 scientific journal articles and created several scientific patents for vectors, clones and ballistic transfection technology.

Dr. Turner has extensive research experience in molecular biology, genomics, cell culture, animal work, immunology, biochemistry, protein chemistry immunopurification, gene and promoter cloning, bisulphite sequencing, pathology (necropsy), histology, microscopy and pharmacology.

For information about the program, contact Honors adviser Bonnie Smith at 850-526-2761, Ext. 3247.

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October 15, 2009

SORENSON NAMED SPRINGS CHAMPION BY BLUE SPRINGS GROUP

MARIANNA—Edd Sorenson, a Jackson County resident, businessman, and cave diving enthusiast has been named Springs Champion for 2008-09 by the Blue Springs Working Group.

Sorenson retired from an excavation and construction business in Portland, Oregon. His love for cave diving and Jackson Blue Spring brought him to Jackson County in August of 2003. He lives on Merritt’s Millpond. The need for diving supplies was the stimulus that caused Edd to open Cave Adventurer’s Dive Shop.

He is the NSS/CDS safety director for the panhandle and the IUCRR body recovery diver for the panhandle.

Edd has devoted countless hours to exploring and mapping the cave systems that lead to Jackson Blue and the other six springs that discharge into Merritt’s millpond. Edd gives a cave exploration report at each quarterly working group meeting. He also gives a report each year at Old Timer’s Day; which is held at Blue Springs Recreational Park. Last spring he provided a guided tour for the group to all the springs of the millpond.

Since the spring of this year, all divers sign in and pay their diving fees at Sorenson’s place of business instead of the sheriff’s office. Edd provides this service without compensation to accommodate divers.

At least twice a year, he hosts a Customer Appreciation and Demo Day at Blue Springs Recreational Park. This event brings in divers from many southeastern states and occasionally from other countries.

Sorenson also does speaking engagements on cave diving. He has spoken at many local civic groups and schools and has done several shows on Chipola College cable TV.

According to BSWG coordinator Allan Tidwell, “Edd Sorenson is exemplary in his advocacy and guardianship of Jackson County’s treasured first magnitude Blue Spring. Unequivocally, he is our Springs Champion.”

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SORENSON NAMED SPRINGS CHAMPION—Edd Sorenson, a Jackson County resident, businessman, and cave diving enthusiast has been named Springs Champion for 2008-09 by the Blue Springs Working Group. Pictured from left, are: Working Group coordinator Allan Tidwell, Edd Sorenson and his father Gary Sorenson.

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October 15, 2009

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ACE STUDENT SUCCESS WORKSHOPS—Dr. Earl Paul of Hillsborough Community College presented two Academic Success Workshops at Chipola College on Oct. 14. The workshops were sponsored by the Chipola Academic Center for Excellence (ACE). Dr. Paul is pictured here with Chipola employees who attended the workshops.

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October 15, 2009

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CHIPOLA EQUIVALENCY COURSE GRADS—Law enforcement and correctional officers from as far away as New York and New Mexico recently completed Chipola College’s Equivalency of Training (EOT) course. The Chipola Criminal Justice Training Center offers (EOT) for formerly certified Florida law enforcement or correctional officers or for those certified in other states. Pictured from left, are: (front) Corrections students Helen Brettelle of New Mexico, Rashel Coatney of Sunny Hills, Clarence Franklin III of Birmingham, Brenda Gilbert of Milton, Willie Holmes Jr. of Louisville, AL; (second row) Law Enforcement students: William Ball of New York, Kenneth Blackmar III of Okaloosa County, Anthony Bosworth of Massachusetts, Travis Clemons of Orlando, Ian Conway of New Mexico, Caleb Davidson of Florala, AL, (third) Brandon Geisler of South Carolina, Joshua Germann of Valdosta, GA, Stanley Griggs of Ft. Walton Beach, Joshua Hanzlik of Hinesville, GA, Timothy Hatter of Tennessee, Anthony James of Midway, FL, (back row) Jerry Justice of Ohio, Charles McFall of Ft. Walton, Allen Markley of Glenn St. Mary, FL, Jodie Maxim of Ohio, Mark Savage of Panama City, Michell Schinbeler of Niceville, Roxanne Sparacello of Panama City Beach, Richard Strong of Hurlburt Field, FL, Robert Rizzotto of New York. For information, contact Steve Anderson, 850-718-2479, e-mail andersons@chipola.edu, or fax requests to 850-718-2497.

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October 15, 2009

CHIPOLA INVITES SINGERS TO JOIN CHAMBER CHORUS

MARIANNA—The Chipola College Chamber Chorus invites all area singers to join with the chorus in singing a portion of their upcoming Fall Concert.

Rehearsals will be held Monday evenings from 6 to 8 p.m., Nov. 2, 9, and 16, and Saturday, Nov. 21, at 10 a.m. The performance is set for Sunday, Nov 22, at 2:30 p.m., in the Chipola Arts Center.

The program will include Handel selections as well as a benediction by Peter Lutkin. Community chorus members will join in singing several movements of Coronation Anthems 2 and 3.

The Chamber Chorus is under the direction of Bethany Kiral and accompanied by Dr. Joshua Martin.

According to Joan Stadsklev, Director of Fine and Performing Arts, “It is always such a pleasure to have community members participate with us.”

Music, rehearsal CD’s and other information will be available beginning Oct. 12 for pick-up in the Music Office in the Fine Arts Building.

Material also may be mailed by contacting Joan Stadsklev at stadsklevj@chipola.edu or by phone at 850-718-2301.

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October 15, 2009

CHIPOLA BASKETBALL TEAM TO HOST ACCELERATED READING KICK-OFF

MARIANNA—The Chipola College Men’s Basketball Team will host Golson Elementary’s Accelerated Reading kick-off on Friday, Oct. 23, at 8:30 a.m., in the Milton H. Johnson Health Center.

This purpose of the event is to encourage students to do their best in reading this school year.

The Indians will put on a show for the students, performing slam dunks and other drills. All students will be treated to popcorn and a drink, as well as a big time light show, smoke machine, and big screen experience that is Chipola basketball. The basketball team also will emphasize the importance of reading and staying in school.

Janie Nolen, Golson Curriculum Specialist, says, “This is an excellent way to promote reading and also to show how Chipola College works with Golson as a partner.”

For information, call Nolen at 850-482-9607, ext. 233, or Chipola coach Jake Headrick at 850-718-2452.

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October 15, 2009

CHIPOLA LITTLE INDIANS PROGRAM FOR GRADES 1-8

MARIANNA—Chipola Men’s Basketball invites boys and girls in grades 1 through 8 to join the Little Indians.

Participants will learn fundamental skills, ball handling, shooting, passing and teamwork through drills and contests led by Chipola coaches and players.

The first session is set for Tuesday, Oct. 20, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Other practice sessions are: Oct. 31, from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m., and Nov. 10, from 7 to 8 p.m.

Little Indians and all children are invited to a free Haunted Hoops event at 4 p.m. on Oct. 31.

Little Indians will perform during halftime of a Chipola Indians game. The $50 membership fee includes two free tickets to all home games, a Chipola basketball t-shirt and a DVD of the halftime performance.

For information, call assistant coach Brian Steenhoek at 850-718-2378, or email: steenhoekb@chipola.edu

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October 21, 2009

MOFFITT CANCER RESEARCHER TO SPEAK AT CHIPOLA COLLEGE

MARIANNA—Dr. Joel Turner, a Senior Research Scientist in the Experimental Therapeutics Program at Moffitt Cancer Center, will present a program to Honors Program students at Chipola College on Wednesday, Oct. 21, at 1 p.m., in Jackson Hall in Building Z.

The public is invited to attend the program which will conclude at 10:50 a.m.

Dr. Turner holds a Doctorate in Cell Microbiology and Molecular Biology from the University of South Florida. He also earned a master’s degree from USF and a B.S. from the University of Wisconsin.

For information about the program, contact Honors adviser Bonnie Smith at 850-526-2761, Ext. 3247.

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October 15, 2009

CHIPOLA BASKETBALL TEAM TO HOST ACCELERATED READING KICK-OFF

MARIANNA—The Chipola College Men’s Basketball Team will host Golson Elementary’s Accelerated Reading kick-off on Friday, Oct. 23, at 8:30 a.m., in the Milton H. Johnson Health Center.

This purpose of the event is to encourage students to do their best in reading this school year.

Janie Nolen, Golson Curriculum Specialist, says, “This is an excellent way to promote reading and also to show how Chipola College works with Golson as a partner.”

For information, call Nolen at 850-482-9607, ext. 233, or Chipola coach Jake Headrick at 850-718-2452.

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October 15, 2009

CHIPOLA LITTLE INDIANS PROGRAM FOR GRADES 1-8

MARIANNA—Chipola Men’s Basketball invites boys and girls in grades 1 through 8 to join the Little Indians.

Participants will learn fundamental skills, ball handling, shooting, passing and teamwork through drills and contests led by Chipola coaches and players.

The first session is set for Tuesday, Oct. 20, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Other practice sessions are: Oct. 31, from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m., and Nov. 10, from 7 to 8 p.m.

Little Indians and all children are invited to a free Haunted Hoops event at 4 p.m. on Oct. 31.

For information, call assistant coach Brian Steenhoek at 850-718-2378, or email: steenhoekb@chipola.edu

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October 21, 2009

MOFFITT CANCER RESEARCHER TO SPEAK AT CHIPOLA COLLEGE

The public is invited to attend the program which will conclude at approximately 1:50 a.m.

Dr. Turner holds a Doctorate in Cell Microbiology and Molecular Biology from the University of South Florida. He also earned a master’s degree from USF and a B.S. from the University of Wisconsin.

For information about the program, contact Honors adviser Bonnie Smith at 850-526-2761, Ext. 3247.

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October 23, 2009

CHIPOLA BASKETBALL TEAM TO HOST ACCELERATED READING KICK-OFF

MARIANNA—The Chipola College Men’s Basketball Team will host Golson Elementary’s Accelerated Reading kick-off on Friday, Oct. 23, at 8:30 a.m., in the Milton H. Johnson Health Center.

This purpose of the event is to encourage students to do their best in reading this school year.

Janie Nolen, Golson Curriculum Specialist, says, “This is an excellent way to promote reading and also to show how Chipola College works with Golson as a partner.”

For information, call Nolen at 850-482-9607, ext. 233, or Chipola coach Jake Headrick at 850-718-2452.

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October 22, 2009

OFFICERS LEARN DEFENSIVE TACTICS AT CHIPOLA

MARIANNA—Area law enforcement office recently participated in a Defensive Tactics training course at Chipola College.

The course was conducted by H. Lee Peacock of the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office in partnership with Chipola’s Criminal Justice Training Center.

Officers from the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Marianna Police Department, Chipley Police Department, Holmes County Sheriff’s Office and the Calhoun Sheriff’s Office recently participated in the course.

Peacock has been a Deputy with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office for the 23 years, having been a full time Defensive Tactics Instructor for the past 14 years and serving the last seven years as the lead instructor for the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office Academy. He earned several black belts and Instructor Certifications in various disciplines of Martial Arts and has competed as a professional fighter in both kickboxing and Mixed Martial Arts.

Peacock developed the “Defending the Edged Weapon” course for FDLE/CJSTC, as well as the Women’s Self Defense Program for Jacksonville University. He has served as an expert witness on Law Enforcement Use of Force for the City of Jacksonville Office of General Counsel as Well as for Florida Department of Law Enforcement.

Peacock developed the Defensive Tactics course specifically for the Chipola training to focus on weapon retention, hand to hand combat and restraint techniques.

Steve Anderson, Chipola Public Service Assessment Center Manager, said, “Officers who attended this training found all the instruction to be very helpful in improving officer safety and helping officers to better serve and protect the citizens of our community.”

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DEFENSIVE TACTICS AT CHIPOLA—Area law enforcement office recently participated in a Defensive Tactics training course at Chipola College. Pictured from left, are: Martin H. Basford, Joey D. Rabon, Quinton Hollis, Sean Hill, Derrick Wester, Scott Thompson, Mike Hodges, John Braxton, Billy Benton, Daniel Morris, Michael Raley, H. Lee Peacock, Kevin Arnold, Jeff Fowler, Mark Malloy, Tyler Scarborough, George Owens, Julian G. Basford, Timothy D. Hinson and Shane Tipton.

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October 22, 2009

GEEKS HELP COMPUTER WORKSHOPS SET AT CHIPOLA

MARIANNA—Geeks Help @ Chipola College will offer three informational seminars on Thursday, Oct. 29, in the Continuing Education building.

Basic Computer Operations I meets from 10 a.m. to noon. An Electronics Purchasing Help seminar meets from 1 to 3 p.m. Cost for either seminar is $25.

A free Windows 7 Launch Party is Oct. 29, from 6 to 8 p.m. Representatives from Fast Lane Computers are assisting with the party.

Geeks Help is a partnership between computer experts Matt White, a Microsoft Certified professional, and Glenda Bethel, a computer networking consultant.

Four more Geeks Help seminars are scheduled in November: Basic Computer Operations II workshop, Friday, Nov. 6, 9 a.m. to noon, $60; Social Networking seminar, Thursday, Nov. 12, 6 to 8 p.m., $25; Beginning Word 2007 workshop, Saturday, Nov. 21, 9 a.m. to noon, $60; and Electronics Purchasing Help seminar, Saturday, Nov. 21, 1 to 3 p.m., $25.
Pre-registration for paid events is encouraged to secure a spot. Registration through the website is preferred with credit cards accepted through the PayPal secure payment system. Staff will be on-site 30 minutes prior to each event to register individuals and to receive other methods of payment.

For more information, contact Geeks Help LLC at 850-718-7563, or visit www.geekshelp.com

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GEEKS HELP LAUNCHES AT CHIPOLA— Geeks Help @ Chipola College will offer three informational seminars on Thursday, Oct. 29, including a free Windows 7 Launch Party. Geeks Help is a partnership between computer experts Matt White (right), a Microsoft Certified professional, and Glenda Bethel (left), a computer networking consultant. For more information, contact Geeks Help LLC at 850-718-7563, or visit www.geekshelp.com

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October 22, 2009

CHIPOLA INVITES SINGERS TO JOIN CHAMBER CHORUS

MARIANNA—The Chipola College Chamber Chorus invites all area singers to join with the chorus in singing a portion of their upcoming Fall Concert.

Rehearsals will be held Monday evenings from 6 to 8 p.m., Nov. 2, 9, and 16, and Saturday, Nov. 21, at 10 a.m. The performance is set for Sunday, Nov 22, at 2:30 p.m., in the Chipola Arts Center.

The program will include Handel selections as well as a benediction by Peter Lutkin. Community chorus members will join in singing several movements of Coronation Anthems 2 and 3.

The Chamber Chorus is under the direction of Bethany Kiral and accompanied by Dr. Joshua Martin.

According to Joan Stadsklev, Director of Fine and Performing Arts, “It is always such a pleasure to have community members participate with us.”

Music, rehearsal CD’s and other information will be available beginning Oct. 12 for pick-up in the Music Office in the Fine Arts Building.

Material also may be mailed by contacting Joan Stadsklev at stadsklevj@chipola.edu or by phone at 850-718-2301.

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October 22, 2009

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CHIPOLA FACC SCHOLARS—The Chipola College Chapter of the Florida Association of Community Colleges recently awarded six scholarships to children of college employees. Scholarship recipients and their sponsors are, from left: Dustin Dryden and mother Mary Bruce Hamilton, Blair Sherrill and mother Melinda Sherrill, James (J.D.) Tyler and mother Angie Tyler, Jessica Whittington and grandfather Dr. Gene Prough. Not pictured is Marshall Hilton and Kylee Shores. Since 1993, FACC has paid tuition in excess of $106,000 for over 100 students through the FACC Scholarship Endowment funded through concession sales at college sports events.

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October 22, 2009

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CHIPOLA IN REHEARSAL FOR “MUSCIAL COMEDY MURDERS OF 1940”—Chipola College Theater is in full rehearsal for the upcoming, “Musical Comedy Murders of 1940.” Performances of the show are set for Nov. 5-9. Here, the male leads in the play pose for a photo. The comic romp pokes fun at the more ridiculous aspects of "show biz" and the corny thrillers of Hollywood's heyday. For information, call Theatre director Charles Sirmon at 850-718-2227, or email sirmons@chipola.edu

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October 22, 2009

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MOFFITT CANCER RESEARCHER SPEAKS AT CHIPOLA—Dr. Joel Turner, a Senior Research Scientist in the Experimental Therapeutics Program at Moffitt Cancer Center, recently presented a program at Chipola College. Pictured from left, are: Honors adviser Bonnie Smith, Dr. Joel Turner, Moffitt Public Relations director Merritt Martin, and Honors adviser Robert Ivey.

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October 22, 2009

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BEST PUMPKIN—Kendra Pettis of Sneads won the pumpkin contest at the annual Chipola Cosmetology Open House on Oct. 15.

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October 22, 2009

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TAKING A DIP—Chipola Foundation assistant Gwen Oliver (left) gets a paraffin dip from a Chipola Cosmetology student during the program’s at the annual open house.

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October 29, 2009

AUTHORS JANIS OWENS AND CASSANDRA KING TO VISIT CHIPOLA

MARIANNA—Southern authors Janis Owens and Cassandra King will visit the campus of Chipola College Tuesday, Nov. 3.

The pair will speak to students at 11 a.m. in Jackson Hall of the college Literature and Language building. The public is invited to meet both authors at a community reception and book signing in the college Library at noon.

Janis Owens is the author of three novels, My Brother Michael, Myra Sims, and The Schooling of Claybird Catts. The last child and only daughter of a Pentecostal preacher turned insurance salesman, she inherited her love of storytelling and biscuit making from her parents. She lives in Newberry, Florida.

According to her website Owens is a native of North Florida, born a few miles south of the Alabama/Georgia border in Marianna, in 1960; the last child and only daughter of Roy and Martha Johnson. Her father had a church in a little settlement south of Marianna called Page Pond and took a day-job as an insurance salesman for The Independent Life Insurance Company, with a debit that spanned the Apalachicola National Forest. The family moved to New Orleans when Owens was three, then Hattiesburg, Mississippi, and finally back to North Florida. The family eventually ended up in Ocala in Marion County in what Owens calls, “close to ground zero of Cracker Florida.”

Janis Owens’ new cookbook, “The Cracker Kitchen: A Cookbook in Celebration of Cornbread-Fed, Down Home Family Stories and Cuisine,” was released earlier this year.

Cracker culture is one of the oldest and most misunderstood cultures in American history. But in The Cracker Kitchen, Janis traces the history of Crackers in America to show how they’re more than just the “eighth-generation children of working-class immigrants who came to America before the Civil War.” However, according to Janis, “Cracker” took a positive turn towards the 1970’s, when “Disney moved to Florida and every Yankee on earth built a condo on the coast” and “the Florida-born natives began to self-refer as Crackers as a way of separating their old Florida culture from the flood of Yankee transplants.” Today, “Cracker” is a term of pride for many (including Janis who is a Florida-born native herself) and is used to describe the kind of people Crackers really are: proud Americans with a deep love of their country, their family, good food and storytelling.

Cassandra King wrote the critically-acclaimed, The Sunday Wife, in 2002. The book was a Literary Guild and Book-of-the-Month Club selection; a People Magazine Page-Turner of the Week; Books-a-Million President’s Pick for 2002; Utah’s Salt Lake Libraries Readers’ Choice Award nominee; and one of South Carolina’s Readers’ Circle selections. Now in trade paperback, The Sunday Wife was the Nestle Corporation’s choice in a campaign to promote reading groups. In addition, the book was chosen as one of Booksense’s top reading group selections for 2006.

In April 2004, Cassandra King’s first novel, Making Waves in Zion was reissued under the title Making Waves. King’s third novel, The Same Sweet Girls, released in January 2005, was the national number one Booksense Selection for February; a Book-of-the-Month Club and Literary Guild selection; and spent several weeks on the New York Times extended list as well as SEBA’s bestsellers list. Both The Sunday Wife and The Same Sweet Girls were nominated for SEBA’s book of the year. A fourth novel, Queen of Broken Hearts, the story of a divorce therapist who can heal everyone’s broken heart but her own, was released in 2007, and became a Literary Guild and Book-of-the-Month Club Selection.

King was born and raised in Pinckard, Alabama, a small community outside of Dothan, on a peanut farm which is still in the King family. She received a B.A. and M.A. from the University of Montevallo, where she later taught English, as she did at Jefferson State and Gadsden State.

She presently lives in the Low Country of South Carolina with her husband, novelist Pat Conroy.

For information about the authors’ visit to Chipola, contact Dr. Sarah Clemmons at 850-718-2213.

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October 29, 2009

CHIPOLA’S ‘MUSICAL COMEDY MURDERS OF 1940’ OPENS NOV. 5

MARIANNA—Chipola College Theater will present the “Musical Comedy Murders of 1940,” Nov. 5-8. The play runs Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30 p.m., with a Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. The play contains adult humor which may not be suitable for children.

Tickets—$7 for adults and $5 for 18 and under—are available in the Chipola Business Office. Phone credit card sales are offered at 850-718-2220. Chipola students and employees get a free ticket with ID.

This ingenious and wildly comic romp pokes fun at the more ridiculous aspects of "show biz" and the corny thrillers of Hollywood's heyday. The show is a nonstop barrage of laughter as those assembled (or at least those who aren't killed off) untangle the mystery of the "Stage Door Slasher."

As the actors and director prepare their performance, a blizzard cuts off any possible retreat, bodies start to drop in plain sight, knives spring out of nowhere, masked figures drag their victims behind swiveling bookcases, and accusing fingers point in all directions. The bumbling police inspector snowshoes in to investigate and the mystery is solved in the nick of time. The “Slasher” is unmasked, but not before the audience has been treated to a sidesplitting good time and a generous serving of the author’s biting, satiric and refreshingly irreverent wit.

Several local actors were cast in the following roles: Sarah Lovins as Helsa Wenzel, Piper Williams as Elsa Von Grossenkruelen, Austin Pettis as Michael Kelly, Ben Grande as Patrick O’Reilly, Mark Lent as Ken De La Maize, Breanna Kneiss as Nikki Crandall, Aven Pitts as Eddie McCuen, Kristina Lopez as Majorie Baverstock, Matthew Van Buren as Roger Hopewell, Kayla Todd as Bernice Roth and Joe Evans as the radio voice.

For information, call Theatre director Charles Sirmon at 850-718-2227, or email sirmons@chipola.edu

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October 29, 2009

CHIPOLA BASKETBALL HOSTS GOLSON READING KICK-OFF

MARIANNA—The Chipola College Men’s Basketball Team hosted the second annual Accelerated Reading Kick-Off party for some 800 Golson Elementary students Oct. 23 at the Milton H. Johnson Health Center.

The event was the springboard for Golson’s Accelerated Reader program to encourage students to achieve their reading goals this year.

Chipola Men’s Basketball Assistant Coach Joc Calloway welcomed the students and introduced Chipola president Dr. Gene Prough who encouraged the students to look at reading as an adventure instead of a challenge.

Rep. Marti Coley spoke of the chance to “travel to different countries or even the moon, without leaving home by reading books.”

The nationally-ranked Chipola Indian Basketball team entertained the students with a slam dunk contest and a Globe-trotter style game.

Chipola coach Jake Headrick said, “This event is one of the several ways our program gives back to the community each year. Through our partnership with Golson, our players are able to interact and promote education with area youngsters.”

Special guest referees were Golson Curriculum Specialists Janie Nolen and Sue Miller. By requiring the players wear silly outfits and read books to earn extra points for their squads, the officials helped to entertain the crowd.

Janie Nolen said, “This event was an excellent way to promote reading and also show how our school works with Chipola College as partners in education.”

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October 29, 2009

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CHIPOLA FIREFIGHTERS LEARN ON LP GAS SYSTEM—Candidates in Chipola College’s Firefighting Academy recently practiced their skills on the college’s Liquid Petroleum Gas training system and vehicle fire simulator. The LP system simulates a fire in a residential gas tank. Firefighters learn to close the pop-off valve located on the top of the tank. For information about the Firefighting program, call 850-718-2483.

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October 29, 2009

CHIPOLA BRAIN BOWLERS PLACE THIRD BEHIND FLORIDA AND FSU

MARIANNA—The Chipola Brain Bowl Team finished third in a 20-team tournament in Orlando on Oct. 24.

Chipola finished third behind the first place University of Florida A team and the second place Florida State University B team. Chipola also scored two wins over the FSU A team.

Chipola was the only community college in the playoff bracket which included FSU A, FSU B and UF A.

Chipola player Dallin Kelson was the ninth individual among 65 players. His team-mate Ethan Hewett was tenth overall.

Chipola is the two-time defending Florida state champion.

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October 29, 2009

CHIPOLA HOSTS JOHNSON BASKETBALL CLASSIC NOV. 6-7

MARIANNA—The Chipola College men’s and women’s basketball teams open their regular seasons Friday, Nov. 6, in the Milton H. Johnson Classic.

Friday’s lineup features the Gulf Coast women and Monroe (NY) at 3 p.m.

The Lady Indians play NABA at 5 p.m. The Indians face L.B. Wallace at 7 p.m. Saturday’s games include the Gulf Coast women and NABA at 1 p.m.

The Indians play Mississippi Elite at 3 p.m. followed by the Lady Indians and Monroe at 5 p.m.

The late coach Milton H. Johnson was among the best to ever coach in community college basketball. From 1961 to 1993, Johnson won 628 games and led the Indians seven national tournaments, finishing second in 1974. His career coaching record includes more than 800 wins.

The Chipola gymnasium bears the name: Milton H. Johnson Health Center, and shortly after his retirement in 1993, coaches from the league named the Panhandle Conference trophy in his honor.

The Lady Indians host the annual Alzheimer’s Classic, Nov. 13-15, in the Johnson Center. Chipola plays Monroe (NY) at 6 p.m., Nov. 13, and Jefferson (MO) at 6 p.m., Nov. 14. The Lady Indians play Trinity Valley (TX) at 2 p.m., Nov. 15.

The Lady Indians are ranked second in the FCCAA Women’s Basketball Preseason Coaches’ Poll. Panhandle Conference teams occupy the top five spots in the Top 10 with Gulf Coast on top, Chipola in second, NW Florida in third, PJC in fourth and TCC in fifth.

The Lady Indians are third in the NJCAA National poll. Gulf Coast is seventh. NW Florida is the only other Florida team in the poll at number 22.

The Indians are ranked fifth in the FCCAA Men’s Basketball Preseason Coaches’ Poll. TCC is first and NW Florida is fourth. Gulf Coast is sixth on the state list.

The Indians are ranked number 13 in the NJCAA National pre-season poll. Central Florida is first. TCC is the only other Florida team in the national poll at number seven.

For information about Chipola athletics, visit www.chipola.edu, or call 718-2CJC.

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October 29, 2009

CHIPOLA BASKETBALL HOSTS GOLSON READING KICK-OFF

The event was the springboard for Golson’s Accelerated Reader program to encourage students to achieve their reading goals this year.

Rep. Marti Coley spoke of the chance to “travel to different countries or even the moon, without leaving home by reading books.”

The nationally-ranked Chipola Indian Basketball team entertained the students with a slam dunk contest and a Globe-trotter style game.

Janie Nolen said, “This event was an excellent way to promote reading and also show how our school works with Chipola College as partners in education.”

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October 29, 2009

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Golson2—Chipola player Delwan Graham faces off with referee and Golson Curriculum Specialist Janie Nolen.

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Golson 3 –Chipola player Sam Grooms explains the importance of reading to the Golson students.

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Golson 4— Golson Curriculum Specialist Janie Nolen and Golson teacher Mary Dungan make a promise to dye their hair blue if Golson students meet their reading goal.

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