Sydney Baker – 12th grader, Wakulla High School

Sydney Baker – 12th grader, Wakulla High School

Principal: Michele Falk

Achievements/Reason for Nomination: Wakulla High School proudly recognizes senior Sydney Baker as Student of the Week for her outstanding leadership and dedication to excellence. As president of the National Honor Society, Sydney leads a student-driven organization that has grown to over 175 members this year, setting a remarkable standard for involvement and achievement. She has been an exemplary leader, spearheading fundraising efforts that have raised more than $5,000 to support NHS scholarships. Sydney’s contagious energy and commitment to building school spirit have left a lasting mark on campus, most notably through her organization of a highly successful, school-wide Spring Carnival. Beyond her leadership accomplishments, she truly embodies the NHS pillars of character, service, and scholarship in everything she does. Sydney’s future is bright as she prepares to attend Florida State University’s College of Engineering beginning this summer. Wakulla High is proud to celebrate her many achievements.

Wakulla High junior Mattie Harrell named Sunshine State Scholar

Junior Mattie Harrell represents Wakulla Schools among the state’s highest-performing students.

Special to The Sun

Wakulla High School proudly recognizes junior Mattie Harrell as this year’s Sunshine State Scholar, an honor that celebrates Florida’s top students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
The Sunshine State Scholars Program, sponsored by the Florida Department of Education, highlights one outstanding senior from each district who demonstrates exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and a commitment to excellence in STEM fields. Mattie represents Wakulla County Schools among the state’s highest-performing students.

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Chamber luncheon

The Tallahassee State College Wakulla Environmental Institute hosted Wakulla Chamber of Commerce members and guests for a monthly luncheon, held on Wednesday, March 25, this one catered by Hamaknockers Barbecue. At left, Rene Millender of Capital City Bank gets her lunch and a hug from Mary Wallace, who serves as mistress of ceremonies for the luncheons. The events provide an opportunity for businesspeople to socialize, have some lunch, and maybe win a door prize. (Photo by Lynda Kinsey)

Ask Judge Smith: What’s in a name?

By JUDGE LAYNE SMITH

Most people have read or heard the assertion, “Your name is Mudd!” As a boy, I assumed that the “Mudd” being referred to was a mixture of dirt and water. I thought it was the equivalent of calling someone a dirty dog. If I had paid closer attention, I would have noticed that “Mudd” is a surname. Do you know where the saying comes from? Here goes!

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Joy-Filled Easter held at Lodge

David Caldron, Gerlori Paris, Brynlee Strickland and Parker Nesslage of Lighthouse of the Big Bend

Story & Photos By
LINDA ANN McDONALD
Correspondent

Joy-Filled Journeys hosted its annual Joy-Filled Easter event on Thursday, March 26, at the Wakulla Springs Lodge.
The event is aimed at giving special needs kids a fun time, and activities included decorating cookies, Easter crafts, photos with the Easter Bunny, face painting and prize-filled golden eggs with free meal vouchers from Zaxby’s and Jimmy John’s restaurants.

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Animal Shelter holds Spring Fling

Dawn Reed and Doug Gilbert of Wakulla Animal Group with Edward Clark as Spiderman and his daughters Nova and Justice.

By LINDA ANN McDONALD
Correspondent

With 10 adoptions and five more pending, the Wakulla County Animal Control had a successful Spring Fling Adoption event on Saturday, March 28, at the Wakulla County Animal Adoption Center.
Dogs and cats found their furever homes free of charge and the first 100 pets of Wakulla residents received free microchipping services sponsored by Tallahassee Big Dog Rescue.

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Mike Kemp case is continued until April

Kemp’s attorney indicates he will file motion to dismiss charges against former commissioner

By WILLIAM SNOWDEN
Editor

While former county commissioner Mike Kemp had been on the trial docket for March when the case was under Wakulla Circuit Judge Layne Smith, the case has been under review by Circuit Judge Ron Flury, who was assigned the case after Judge Smith removed himself.
At a hearing on March 12 via Zoom, Judge Flury got an update on the case from Crawfordville attorney David Kemp (no relation to Mike Kemp) that transcripts of depositions had been ordered and a likely Motion to Dismiss would be drafted.

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