journalfront

News

Second Harvest to Hold 5 Holiday Food Distributions in Response to Disasters

2024-12-09

In response to the recent natural disasters, Second Harvest of the Big Bend is taking significant steps to ensure residents have a holiday meal. With five additional holiday food distributions planned this month, they are dedicated to providing support during this crucial time.

"Ensuring Holiday Meals Amidst Disasters - Second Harvest's Efforts"

Taylor County Distribution

On December 11, from 2 to 5 p.m., the holiday food distribution will take place at West Fraser Perry Mill, located at 1509 S Byron Butler PKWY in Perry. This drive-thru event will operate on a first come, first served basis, ensuring that those in need can access the much-needed food. It's a great opportunity for the community to come together and help those facing difficulties during the holiday season.

The volunteers at Second Harvest have worked hard to organize this distribution and ensure that a sufficient amount of food is available. They understand the importance of a holiday meal and are committed to making sure no one is left hungry.

Suwannee County Distribution

On December 12, between 2 and 5 p.m., the old Winn-Dixie parking lot at 911 Pinewood Drive SW in Live Oak will be the location for the food distribution. Again, it will be a drive-thru service, with the same first come, first served principle. This helps to ensure that everyone gets a fair chance to receive the food they need.

The community's support has been crucial in making these distributions possible. Local businesses and individuals have come forward to donate food and resources, showing their compassion for those in need. Second Harvest is grateful for their contributions and is working hard to make a positive impact.

Madison County Distribution

On December 17, from 10 to 12 p.m., the food distribution will be held at 152 SW Onslow Street in Greenville. This is another opportunity for residents in Madison County to receive a holiday meal. The drive-thru format makes it convenient for people to access the food without having to leave their vehicles.

Second Harvest is committed to serving as many people as possible during this holiday season. They are working closely with local organizations and agencies to ensure that the food reaches those who need it the most. Their efforts are making a real difference in the lives of many.

Jefferson County Distribution

On December 18, from 10 to 12 p.m., the Jefferson County Public Library at 375 S Water Street in Monticello will be the site of the food distribution. This provides a convenient location for residents in Jefferson County to access the food and enjoy a holiday meal.

Second Harvest's dedication to serving the community is evident in these holiday food distributions. They are working tirelessly to ensure that no one misses out on the joy of a holiday meal, even in the face of natural disasters.

Leon County Distribution

On December 21, starting from 7 a.m. until the food runs out, the Governors Square Mall at 1500 Apalachee PKWY will be the location for the final food distribution. This is a great opportunity for residents in Leon County to receive a holiday meal and celebrate the season.

Second Harvest's efforts are not only providing food but also bringing the community together. People are coming together to support one another and make a difference in the lives of those in need. It's a heartwarming sight to see the community coming together during these difficult times.

Winter sports offer athletes a stage to showcase their skills, and one sophomore has truly been making waves this season. Emily Newbauer from Viterbo's bowling team has been setting records and achieving remarkable feats.

Unstoppable Sophomore Shines in Winter Sports

Shining on the Hardwood and Mats

Winter sports provide a platform for athletes to shine, whether it's on the hardwood or the mats. However, this season, one area athlete has been stealing the show on the lanes. Emily Newbauer, a sophomore on Viterbo's bowling team, has emerged as a force to be reckoned with.She currently ranks second among 460 women at the NAIA level and sixth among 730 bowlers in the USBC rankings. Her performance this season has been nothing short of exceptional, with more than half of her throws resulting in strikes. This is a massive improvement from her freshman campaign, highlighting her hard work and dedication.

Tournament Success and Standout Accolades

Newbauer has fared well in the tournaments Viterbo has competed in this season. One accolade that stands out is making the All-Tournament team at the Midwest Collegiate. This was one of her goals set last year, and she achieved it this year. It's a testament to her skills and determination.She is aware of the accolades but tries to focus on the present and each shot. "It's always kind of sitting in the back of my mind, but I do my best not to think about it," she said. "Especially when I'm bowling during tournaments. Just so I can stay out of my head and I can have fun while I'm bowling. Not necessarily worry about statistics or standings."

Boost for the Program and Team Spirit

Having one of the best bowlers in the country is a big deal for the relatively small program. "It's a huge boost," Head Coach Terry McKinney said. "Any Facebook post, she's always in the news. Basically because she's leading every tournament that she's bowling. I think it makes incoming recruits want to come and bowl with her especially because she's only a sophomore."Newbauer also emphasized the importance of the team. "The main reason I came to Viterbo is because I liked the community," she said. "I also liked the bowlers that I met at the college combine back in December of 2022. I love all the girls on the team. We're more than just teammates, we're basically family. That's what makes it so nice to be a part of the Viterbo bowling team."The V-Hawks last competed on November 10, and their next event is December 18 in Las Vegas. Fans are eagerly awaiting Newbauer's next performance and the team's continued success.

The Louisiana Board of Ethics took significant actions regarding campaign finance reports. Jay Dardenne, a longtime elected official and Gov. John Bel Edwards' commissioner of administration, was fined $3,000 for filing four reports months after their deadlines. Dardenne, who also held other offices like lieutenant governor and secretary of state, initially faced a $12,000 fine but it was reduced to $3,000 after his personal apology at the Friday meeting. He admitted to not having an excuse for the late filings and said he had gotten into the habit of filing annually in previous years. These four reports were related to his political action committee, JAY PAC, and were supposed to be submitted during 2023. Dardenne made small campaign contributions from this account for state elections. He is a Republican and donated between $250 and $500 to several candidates. The fine for missing a PAC campaign reporting deadline was $200 per day for up to 15 days, reaching a maximum of $3,000. Dardenne's four reports were 75 to 162 days late. He set up JAY PAC during his 2015 gubernatorial bid and said he hadn't used it much recently, with no more than $7,600 in it last year. He recently drained the PAC by making charitable donations and plans to close it by the end of the year.The ethics board also fined two state senators for not submitting their PAC campaign finance reports on time. Sen. Kirk Talbot, R-River Ridge, was fined $1,000 for filing a campaign finance report 33 days late in 2019. The board reduced his penalty from $3,000 as his former accountant took responsibility, saying he was locked out of his files. Sen. Jay Luneau, D-Alexandria, was fined $500 for filing his LA PAC report 15 days late in 2023. The board cut his fine to $500 as he explained that his new accountant was unfamiliar with PAC deadlines while caring for a sick parent who was also his business partner.

Louisiana Ethics Board's Impact on Campaign Finance

Jay Dardenne's Campaign Finance Missteps

1: Jay Dardenne's case highlights the importance of timely filing of campaign finance reports. As a prominent elected official, his actions set an example for others. The fact that he initially faced a large fine but was able to have it reduced through his apology shows the board's consideration. It also emphasizes the need for officials to be more diligent in their reporting. 2: Dardenne's habit of filing annually instead of on time shows a lack of awareness or discipline. This incident serves as a reminder that even those in high positions must adhere to the rules and regulations governing campaign finance. It could potentially lead to a re-evaluation of reporting processes and increased oversight.

Senators' Late Filings and Their Explanations

1: The cases of Sen. Kirk Talbot and Sen. Jay Luneau demonstrate the diverse reasons for late filing of PAC campaign finance reports. Talbot's former accountant's mistake and Luneau's new accountant's unfamiliarity with deadlines both highlight the potential for human error in the process. It also shows the need for better communication and coordination between accountants and their clients. 2: The fact that both senators were able to have their fines reduced shows the board's willingness to consider extenuating circumstances. However, it also raises questions about the adequacy of the current reporting system and whether more safeguards are needed to prevent such late filings in the future.