Middleburg man charged in beating

40 Pages·2017·58.83 MB·English

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Middleburg man charged in beating
By Eric Cravey
Authorities ar- ist group League of the South, is the fourth charged with beating Harris – Jacob Scott
Managing Editor
rested Tyler Watkins person charged with beating DeAndre Har- Goodwin, Daniel Patrick Borden, 18, and
Davis, 49, of Mid- ris, 20, after the rally turned violent. Alex Michael Ramos, 33, who have all
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. – The Federal Bu- dleburg on Jan. 24 According to the Montgomery, Ala.- pleaded not guilty to one count each of ma-
reau of Investigation and the Clay County at his home in the based Southern Poverty Law Center, the licious wounding.
Sheriff’s Offi ce arrested a Middleburg man 1100 block of Buggy League of the South was founded in 1994 According to published reports, po-
last week who is wanted in Virginia in con- Whip Trail. with the sole mission of fi nishing what the lice said Harris was attacked by a group
nection with beating a man after the “Unite Davis, who is a Civil War could not accomplish – Southern of white supremacists in a parking garage
the Right” rally that gained national atten- member of the pro- secession. and beaten with pipes, wooden slabs and
tion. Southern secession- He joins three other men who are
Tyler Davis SEE BEATING, 18
Spelling Bee
goes 59 rounds
By Alex Wilson
For Clay Today
OAKLEAF – Beneath the glow of fl uores-
cent lights in an elementary school caf-
eteria, two students battled each other
valiantly Tuesday night, not with weapons,
but with words.
The 2018 Clay County Spelling Bee be-
gan with 36 students, but in one of the lon-
gest county spelling bees in recent mem-
ory, a total of 59 rounds played out. The
night concluded with the fi nal 23 rounds
featuring a rapid-fi re duel between Erik
Williams, 10, of St. Johns Country Day
School and Josiah Ilagan of Lakeside Ju-
nior High.
The third fi nalist, Alexis Grimm of Oak-
leaf Junior High, lasted until round 26, but
was eliminated after misspelling “keel-
STAFF PHOTO BY ALEX WILSON
haul.” In the fi nal round, Ilagan misspelled
Erik Williams, 10, a fi fth grader at St. Johns Cocuntry Day School, center, won the 2018 Clay County Spelling Bee on Jan. 30. He is joined, from
left, by School Superintendent Addison Davis, School Board Vice Chair Betsy Condon, board members Ashley Gilhousen, Mary Bolla, Janice
Kerekes and Board Chair Carol Studdard. SEE BEE, 13
Opinion ..................................................4
Obituaries ..............................................9 Keep your smile
Clay County
Crime ............................................18-19 Beautiful!
Sports ...........................................21-29
Use a board certifi ed
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2 CLAY TODAY • February 1, 2018 CLAYTODAYONLINE.COM
CCllaayy CCoouunnttyy
MMeemmoorriieess
By Mary Jo McTammany [email protected]
Town celebrates the arrival of electricity
It offi cially all started back in November electricity but not necessarily did they
of 1922. agree on the details.
Moosehaven presented a proposal to Wisely, it was decided to call a special
the commissioners of Orange Park to pay meeting at the town hall to discuss “com-
one third of the $150 per month to be guar- plaints and grievances.” Most were con-
anteed by the town to the city of Jackson- cerned about the location and placement
ville’s electric company. In exchange, the of the substation and the poles. By the time
company would install main lines erected everyone was talked out and satisfi ed it
and ready for connection at residences or was almost daylight.
stores and maintain thereafter. They ac- The substation would be at the foot
cepted the proposal. of Valesca Street near the Duval County
No mention can be found in offi cial line. (Valesca seems to have been lost in
town records although electricity coming the construction of the Buckman Bridge.)
to town was probably part of every con- Poles were located on the west side of
versation residents shared. And it’s pretty A ladies marching drill troop, in town for a Loyal Order of Moose Annual Convention, joined River Boulevard to avoid losing them into
well certain that most everyone wanted the parade celebrating the 1924 arrival of electricity in Orange Park. They stole the show.
SEE POWER, 12
BCC single-member districts to stay put
By Debra W. Buehn
Correspondent sion), said Larry Kirkman. missioners, sit on the committee. Five al- county and is expected to consider that in
Ronnie Coleman echoed Kirkman, say- ternates are also nominated. each vote taken by the BCC.
GREEN COVE SPRINGS – Don’t look for ing that since the single-member district Clay County is one of 20 of the 67 coun- CRC members Art Hooker was one
changes to the structure or make-up of the model was implemented, there have been ties in the state that are charter counties. member who put the representation item
Clay County Board of County Commission- six elections and he hadn’t heard any com- Clay County’s decision to become a char- of single district versus at-large on his dis-
ers anytime soon. plaints about them or the several commis- ter county became effective Jan. 1, 1991, cussion list. And while he said at Monday’s
At its Jan. 30 meeting, the county’s sioners who have been elected since then. and is governed by what it known as “home meeting he still thought the idea of at-large
Charter Review Commission voted against “I don’t think we need it,” he said of rule.” That’s where the county’s charter representation was a good one, it wasn’t
placing on the November general ballot making a change to at-large commission- comes into play as well as the need to re- getting the response from county residents
to allow county voters to decide anything ers or a different number of commission- view it. The other 47 counties are known he thought it might.
concerning changing how many commis- ers. as “constitutional counties” and are ruled In talking with a “good,” “diverse cross
sioners there are and whether they should The discussion came about because it by state statute. section of voters,” he had to explain what
be single-member district representatives was on a list of items CRC members sub- The single-single member versus at- each type was to some and ended up get-
or at-large representatives – or a combina- mitted at the beginning of their term back large districts was named by a few CRC ting about a 50-50 response.
tion of both. Rather, by a vote of 8-3, mem- in the fall of 2017. The chairwoman the members – one who has since resigned and “Most people weren’t overly passionate
bers of the CRC decided to leave the fi ve CRC members had chosen to lead them, been replaced – as something to be looked about it either way,” he said, adding later,
commissioners, single-member districts Amy Pope-Wells, asked each member to at. Single-member districts have represen- “It’s something that I’m not getting the kind
intact. submit a few items they would like to see tatives who are elected from the district in of passionate feedback in the community
Eleven members of the CRC were studied by the CRC during its 2017-2018 which a voter lives. That voter can only that I thought I would,” he said.
present at the meeting while four of the term. A discussion of single member dis- vote for the BCC candidate within his or He also said he sensed that there
15-member group were absent. trict representation versus at-large repre- her district. While whoever is elected is wasn’t a strong support for the idea or
Basically, as was said more than once, sentation was mentioned by a few people. considered the fi rst “go-to commissioner” any commission change within the CRC it-
the old saying “if it ain’t broke, don’t fi x it,” The Charter Review Commission meets if a person has a problem, the voter can self. But Hooker, who was one of the three
came to the front, especially since several every four years to review the county’s still speak with any other commissioner as who voted against the motion, was joined
CRC members said they hadn’t heard any charter and determine if there are issues well. by CRC Vice Chairman Charles “Scotty” R.
complaints about the current system or de- that need to be brought before county vot- The commissioner, who must live in the Taylor Jr. in the vote.
sire for change from the voters. ers to be revised or amended. The CRC same district as the voter, and while the Taylor said that while, with the current
“I haven’t talked to anyone that has any cannot make any changes on its own. commissioner has a special relationship single-member district, the commissioner
interest in either going to at-large or in- Fifteen members of the community, with fellow residents, the commissioner is can vote to set taxes and create legislation,
creasing it (the size of the county commis- nominated by the Board of County Com- responsible for the well-being of the whole SEE REVIEW, 13
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Clay Today, IN CLAY COUNTY, MAIL DELIVERY
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CLAYTODAYONLINE.COM February 1, 2018 • CLAY TODAY 3
New principals,
same principles
Clay Principal of the Year to lead new school
By Alex Wilson
For Clay Today Discovery Oaks
by the Numbers:
OAKLEAF – After a two-month search,
33.3
School Superintendent Addison Davis dis-
covered what he believes is the perfect acre campus
candidate for Clay County’s newest school.
862
Tracy McLaughlin, former principal of
Ridgeview Elementary and Clay County
student capacity
School District 2017 Principal of the Year,
will be the fi rst principal of Discovery Oaks 114,000+
Elementary School. The $25 million school
square feet
is currently under construction in the Ea-
gle Landing area of Oakleaf and is on track 46
to open this coming August.
‘I’m extremely excited and honored classrooms
to represent the district and open a new
$25 Million
school,” McLaughlin said. “As it’s becom-
ing more and more apparent, it’s a big construction cost
responsibility. We’re making a lot of deci- Pre-K - 6th
sions, not only what we are going to put in
the classroom, but what curriculum are we Serving Pre-K through
going to lead with.” 6th grade
Discovery Oaks is the fi rst new school STAFF PHOTO BY ALEX WILSON
Discovery Oaks Elementary Principal Tracy McLaughlin, right, discusses school construction
Source: Clay County School District
progress Jan. 30 with Bryce Ellis, left, project manager for the Clay County School District.
SEE SCHOOL, 15
CLAY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
SEEKING CANDIDATES FOR
PRESIDENT POSITION
Our Mission... The Clay County Chamber of Commerce, Inc. will lead, advocate and promote opportunity, education, growth,
networking and best practices that will serve the membership in the best way possible.
The Clay County Chamber of Commerce serves as the unifi ed voice of business. Through leadership and advocacy on community,
regional and national issues of relevance to our members, we contribute to the creation of a favorable business climate, promote
opportunity, economic health and vitality long term. Moreover, by developing, executing, and implementing programs to retain,
attract, and grow value-added businesses in Clay County, the economic base and future sustainability of our communities are
strengthened and diversifi ed. Core Values: Excellence Integrity Innovation Proactive catalyst for change
The Chief Executive and Administrative offi cer of the Chamber is primarily responsible for the full range of chamber activities,
the overall planning, administration, and evaluation of programs, policies, and activities in operation of the Chamber. The President
will have a strong external and strategic focus, serving as a primary spokesperson and an advocate for the business community and
will lead the future vitality, relevance and impact of the Chamber. Reports directly to the Chair, Board of Directors and serves at the
pleasure of the Board of Directors as outlined in the Chamber Bylaws
Primary Areas of Responsibility:
• Strategic Planning
• Board Relations
• Member Relations, Development & Retention
• Budget and Finance
• Spokesperson/Media Voice
• Program & Services Development
• Community and External Relations
• Staff Administration
• Policy Development, Implementation & Interpretation
• Long-range planning
Education and Experience Requirements:
• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, public administration, marketing or related fi eld required. Master’s in business
administration preferred. Specialized education in sales, marketing, public relations or advertising is helpful. Professional Chamber
or Economic Development certifi cation is welcomed. Directly related equivalent experience may be considered in lieu of degree.
• Previous Chamber of Commerce executive experience or experience in senior management position with a chamber is preferred.
• At least fi ve years as a successful business leader with business acumen and the proven ability to manage complex budgets and
staff of 5+.
• Demonstrated successful leadership experience, team management and relationship management in an organization is desirable.
• A stellar communicator, both oral and written.
• A motivator, visionary and advocate with genuine interest and passion for business issues and opportunities within Clay County.
• Successful candidate will be required to reside in Clay County.
Interested applicants should submit Cover Letter, Resume and a minimum of three (3) references to ChamberPresi-
[email protected]
4 CLAY TODAY • February 1, 2018 CLAYTODAYONLINE.COM
Marsy’s Law brings
fairness to criminal
justice system
By Tim Cerio
FloridaPolitics.com
As a member of Florida’s legal com-
munity, I take very seriously any pro- Word of the Week is a feature that
posed changes to our state’s constitution. aims to help readers boost their vocabu-
In my role as a member of the Florida lary in a meaningful way that has practical
Constitution Revision Commission, I will application. Each week, our editorial staff
carefully weigh any proposal before us presents a word, its definition and its use
based on the need to have these propos- in a sentence.
als embedded in our state’s most powerful
legal document. Erudite: An adjective meaning “having
While amending our constitution is not or showing great knowledge or learning.”
something I take lightly, I do feel strongly
about a proposed constitutional amend- “The room was full of erudite scholars
ment I put forward called Marsy’s Law who made the discussion on astronomy fun
for Florida and it’s and interesting.”
CRC Proposal 96.
This measure would Letters to
ensure that victims
and their families Darwin and dog whistles
the Editor
are provided with
the same level of
rights and protec- Reader concerned about
tions as those given
By Eric Cravey Black Creek Water Project
to the accused and flawed and is ‘just a theory.’
convicted. The dog whistle has been blown, the Could it be a surprise that this The St. Johns River Water Manage-
Marsy’s Law for Tim Cerlo genie is out of the bottle, the horse posturing comes up in the year she is ment District appears to be trying to put
Florida is a pro-vic- has left the barn – we’ve heard these running for re-election? She’s asking lipstick on a hog in its video about the
tims’ rights proposal, but to me, it is more clichés before. that the Clay County School District Black Creek Water Resource Development
about bringing equity to the criminal jus- However, this particular dog add ‘other theories’ to the science Project posted on the SJRWMD Facebook
tice process. whistle happened to be an item pulled standards to go above and beyond the page on September 24, 2018.
The United States Constitution enumer- from the Clay County School Board’s state standards. Pish posh. The bot- This project will not provide any
ates 20 distinct rights to those accused January meeting agenda concerning tom line is that she wants ‘creation- significant benefits to Keystone Heights
or convicted of crimes. The victims or the science textbook ism’ taught as if it were science while lake levels or reduce flooding on Black
family members they leave behind when adoptions for the it’s never been proven to be science. Creek. The Black Creek Project has the
a tragic loss of life has occurred have ab- district. Proponents of creationism began potential to cause significant damage to
solutely no rights. While those who are In preparation using the term ‘intelligent design’ in the South Prong of Black Creek. The Black
accused or convicted have 20 different for this month’s the early part of the 2000s to cloak Creek Project will waste over $40 million
rights, the victims and their families – Flo- Feb. 1 meeting, it even further and present it as if it of Amendment One resources which in my
ridians who were thrust into the criminal school board were some sort of new science. Sarah view qualifies it as a resource hog.
justice system by the acts of others – have members are Palin said you can put lipstick on a The SJRWMD claims in the video
none. There is no equity in that. being bombarded pig, but it’s still a pig. that excess water will be withdrawn and
I want to be very clear that the accused with thousands of At the January meeting, Gilhousen pumped to Keystone Heights but they fail
are entitled to their rights, as they should emails from resi- also questioned the manner in which to indicate when there is excess water in
be. They deserve to have every single right dents crying fowl Eric Cravey the age of the earth is calculated Black Creek at Penney Farms. There is
currently provided to them under federal over the issue and then went on to tie in dubious no Minimum Flow or Level set for Black
and state law. Nothing should change there of Darwin’s Theory of Evolution being language about climate change. Let’s Creek so we have no way of knowing what,
at all. taught in the schools. Well, guess what go for a grand slam while we’re at it, if any, excess flow exists. Recreational
What should change is that victims it’s been taught for many decades, huh? use of the South Prong of Black Creek and
should have the same level of rights and meaning that it not just all of a sudden In 2016, Clay County voters woke the endangered Black Creek Crayfish may
protections too. pulled out of a dusty filing cabinet. up and decided to re-focus on chil- determine what flows are excess flows.
The U.S. Constitution is silent on vic- Look for this week’s meeting to dren by going to the voting booth and It is reasonable to assume that excess
tims’ rights. Our state constitution does look very similar to meetings held electing an educator to lead the school flows might occur when the flow is above
not have to be. in the run-up to the 2012 election. district. In his short tenure, Superin- the average flow. The SJRWMD video
ndividual states have the power to in- Remember those days? tendent Addison Davis has worked to indicated the average flow in Black Creek
clude victims’ rights and protections in Those were the days that one develop more transparency and rap- at Penney Farms was 155 million gallons
their constitutions. Most states have al- school board member turned the port than ever within the district and per day in 2017. What the video did not
ready done so. Florida is one of only 15 entire school board meeting room into among the school board. say was that for over half of 2017 the
states that does not provide constitution- kabuki theatre, thoroughly derail- However, all it takes is a wedge flows in Black Creek were below 155 mgd.
al-level protections for victims of crimes. ing the scope and purpose of what a like Evolution – and one board mem- If you use the 155 mgd to determine
As the third largest state in the nation, school board meeting is supposed to ber to seek attention like this – to excess flow, during 2017 there would have
we should be leading the way on the is- be about – the care and education of come in and begin to cast doubt on all been no excess flow to be pumped for over
sues facing our society, including victims’ our students. of it. Let’s create some division, so I half of 2017. To spend over $40 million to
rights, not lagging behind. The only difference this time is can get some ink and TV airtime so I build a system that could not be used over
Marsy’s Law for Florida is the answer. that it’s not Charlie Van Zant Jr., but can get re-elected. The sad part about half the time is not good planning.
This measure would provide victims of board member Ashley Gilhousen. At the Gilhousen publicity stunt is that In the long run, the Black Creek
crime and their families with clear, en- the January board meeting, Gilhousen the voters whose ears have already Project may prevent Keystone lakes from
forceable constitutional protections – just used cloaked language to basically say perked up to the dog whistles don’t getting the water they need. Once the $40
that Darwin’s groundbreaking discov-
SEE LAW, 5 eries about the origin of species were SEE WHISTLE, 5 SEE LETTER, 5
CLAYTODAYONLINE.COM February 1, 2018 • CLAY TODAY 5
Letter Sen. Bradley urged to support
anti-fracking bill We are hoping Bradley will become
from page 4 the hero the activists in Orange Park
As residents of an area in the state summoned. Heroes don’t recoil because
million is spent and no significant recov- continually threatened by mining and of roadblocks. Heroes fight because it is
ery in lake levels occur, future legislators other industrial polluters, we commend the right thing to do. By stalling on the
may be reluctant to fund any more proj- Senator Rob Bradley for leading the fracking ban bill in his committee, Senator
ects to address Keystone lake levels. fight to protect our springs and natural Bradley is bowing to the already too pow-
The Water Supply Plan referenced in resources here in Northern Florida. What erful State House. Bradley has shown his
the SJRWMD had several projects that is concerning, though, is that he hasn’t strength and resolve in getting legislation
Send us a letter ...
would have added water directly to the moved forward on supporting one of the passed in his Forever Florida fight and an We’d like to hear from you. Perhaps
Keystone lakes at a much lower cost. The biggest threats to Florida’s environment important Everglades restoration bill. We you are concerned about the county com-
SJRWMD just chose the wrong project. It and economy: fracking. hope he steps up to the plate and proves mission, the school board or your city
council or commission, sit down and take a
is not too late to change the approach and The activists who gathered in Orange to be the powerhouse that we know he is
few moments to write us a letter.
get more water into the Keystone lakes. Park on January 11 calling on Bradley to by ensuring the fracking ban bill gets to
All we ask is that you keep it civil, no
The SJRWMD just has to be willing to be a hero on this issue hit the nail on the the Senate floor. name-calling and write no more than 600
admit it may have made a mistake in rec- head. As an environmental champion, it words. All we ask is that you stick to local
ommending the Black Creek Project and is astonishing that Senator Bradley has Indivisible Clay County issues, be clear and make a point.
We reserve the right to edit for AP
cancel the current contract for developing not pushed forward this critical piece Sandy Goldman, Fleming Island
Stylebook errors, grammar and spelling.
the plans for the Black Creek Project. of legislation to protect his constituents Jeff Allstadt, Fleming Island
In your email, type Letter to the Editor
One clear alternative project would and Floridians statewide. In fact, just David Johnson, Orange Park in your subject and send it to Managing
be to take the Chemours discharges that last week Senator Bradley was cited by Editor Eric Cravey at [email protected]. We
cause flooding in Bradford County and Politico as having chosen not to have a look forward to hearing from you!
move those discharges into a system that hearing on the bill in his panel because
would carry the discharged water to the he doesn’t think it had a chance to pass in
Keystone lakes. the House. However, the bill is believed to
have enough votes to pass in the Senate to
Paul Still which he belongs. Whistle They also say they want high-wage jobs
Starke here to lower the number of people who
from page 4 commute to Jacksonville and elsewhere
for work. Well, that is never going to hap-
Law Patricia Levesque, Darlene Jordan, Fred even know they’re being played. It’s easier pen without science.
Karlinsky, Jeanette Nuñez, Brecht Heu- to get people riled up than it is to bring No school board member should be
from page 4 chan and Sen. Darryl Rouson who are co- people together. allowed to force their personal religious
sponsoring my proposal. Elected officials in Clay County keep agenda on to the community, their fellow
the same as those afforded to the accused Today, Marsy’s Law for Florida will be saying they want economic development school board members and, most of all,
and convicted. Nothing more and nothing put to a vote by the CRC Declaration of and businesses to locate here and grow. our students.
less. By giving victims and their families Rights committee. I urge the members of
co-equal rights to the convicted and ac- that committee to vote in favor of Marsy’s
cused, we will empower them to take an Law for Florida so voters will have a
active role in their case and guarantee that chance to decide for themselves if victims
they, at least, have the ability to be heard. and the accused and convicted should be
Marsy’s Law is gaining momentum on equal footing in the criminal justice pro-
across the country. It has already been cess.
enacted in six other states. Most recently, We have a unique, once-in-20-year
in November, Marsy’s Law passed in Ohio opportunity to ensure Floridians who are
with 83 percent of Ohioans voting in favor victimized, and their families, are treated
of it. We know there is overwhelming sup- fairly following a crime. Let’s bring equity
port for Marsy’s Law here in Florida. to our criminal justice system. Let’s pass
According to a poll conducted in Oc- Marsy’s Law for Florida.
tober, 87 percent of likely Florida voters n
believe victims should have, at the very Tim Cerio is a member of the 2017-
least, the same level of protections in the 2018 Florida Constitution Revision Com-
state constitution as those given to those mission and an attorney who practices law
accused of committing crimes. in Tallahassee. His column appears cour-
I appreciate the support of Floridians tesy of FloridaPolitics.com.
and the support of my fellow CRC members
6 CLAY TODAY • February 1, 2018 CLAYTODAYONLINE.COM
Northeast Florida Astronomical Society
President Greg Sauve monitors the waning
STAFF PHOTOS BY KILE BREWER daylight before attempting to align his
Lake Asbury Junior High School students and other participants wait in line to look through a $15,000 telescope Thursday evening at the school telescope during the Lake Asbury Junior High
during their fi rst Starlight Night event. School Starlight Night event last Thursday.
‘Starlight Night’ excites students about science
By Kile Brewer
Staff Writer viewing event at Lake Asbury Junior High, and featured an array of science-themed partnership with the Northeast Florida As-
LAKE ASBURY – Through science, Thom- where Desiree teaches, in 2017, the Web- learning for those of all ages. tronomical Society who brought a variety
as and Desiree Webber hope to lead Clay bers formed a plan to host a more inclusive “A lot of our kids today don’t look up, of telescopes to offer kids a better view
County students away from the distrac- event at the school that could lure stargaz- they’re looking down at their cell phones,” of the cosmos than they had ever experi-
tions of modern society and into a future of ers from the entire county and beyond. Desiree said. “We wanted to show them enced.
discovery and real-world interaction. That event came to be known as Starlight that there’s a lot more out there.”
SEE STAR, 17
After hosting a school-wide eclipse Night, hosted behind the school on Jan. 25 Thomas Webber was able to secure a
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CLAYTODAYONLINE.COM February 1, 2018 • CLAY TODAY 7
New program IDs kids at
risk of dropping out
By Wesley LeBlanc
Addison Davis announced the launch of a
Staff Writer
partnership with MCUSA to place motiva-
ORANGE PARK – Students at risk of drop- tional coaches in Clay County junior high
ping out have a new resource for times of schools.
need. The program will begin with coaches
Motivational Coaches of America is a being placed at Wilkinson Junior High,
nationwide organization based in Tampa Orange Park Junior High and Green Cove
that places motivational coaches in schools Springs Junior High.
whose students are at risk of dropping out, MCUSA’s goal, according to its presi-
or being Baker Acted, as a result of mental, dent, Julio Avael, is to assess the needs
behavioral and emotional health issues. On of an individual seeking help, set them Orange Park Jr. High Principal Al DeJesus, left, Julio Avael of MCUSA, Clay School Superinten-
Wednesday, Clay County Superintendent SEE STUDENT, 11 dent Addison Davis and Terry Connor, chief of secondary schools, at Tuesday’s announcement
of the new program to help at-risk students stay in school and succeed.
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SPONSORSHIP BENEFITS, depending on the level of sponsorship, Opening night February 9th and runs through March 4th.
Opportunities can include recognition in print, social media, email blasts, hole
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8 CLAY TODAY • February 1, 2018 CLAYTODAYONLINE.COM
Community Briefs
Foundation to host
dose. A video about Hatcher’s story will be ket is open at Town Hall Park on the fi rst Scholarship from the Clay County Cruzers.
“A Drug Free Day in Clay”
shown at this event. and third Sunday of each month from Sep- Applicants must be graduating from
ORANGE PARK – A nonprofi t foundation tember through June with exceptions in the Clay County School System. Students
Farmer’s market to accept SNAP
that educates the public about drug addic- October and March when the Town of Or- are eligible if they are going to attend any
tion has teamed up with the organization ORANGE PARK – Clay County residents ange Park hosts other major events. Mar- post-secondary program of study including
City Streets to Student Athletes to present who receive aid from the Supplemental ket hours are 10 a.m.-3 p.m at the corner colleges, universities or vocational or tech-
a symposium about the opioid crisis. Nutrition Assistance Program will now be of Kingsley and Park avenues. nical schools.
The Derek Hatcher Foundation will host able to use that benefi t at the Orange Park Applicants are requested to write an
the free event on Feb. 3 from 3:30-5 p.m. Farmer’s & Arts Market. Jacksonville Symphony essay of approximately 150 words and
at the Thrasher-Horne Center. The event Beginning Feb. 4, the Town of Orange musicians to celebrate complete a short application form. Schol-
will feature real life stories, door prizes Park will start participating in the SNAP, diversity here arship applications must be received by
and interactive discussions about working which is administered by the U.S. Depart- Clay County Cruzers on or before the ap-
together to keep the community safe. The ment of Agriculture. SNAP offers nutrition JACKSONVILLE – Two ensembles com- plication deadline of March 31.
foundation will also give a presentation assistance to eligible, low-income individu- prised of Jacksonville Symphony musi- The scholarship documents will be
about college scholarship opportunities for als and families, allowing them to stretch cians will perform at Island View Baptist provided to each high school guidance of-
Clay County students at the event. their food dollars and eat healthy. The Or- Church on Park Avenue in Orange Park on fi ce. The instructions and application form
“As you may have heard, we are in ange Park Farmer’s & Arts Market is the Feb. 4 as part of a concert celebrating the provide all relevant information a student
the middle of an opiate epidemic and Clay fi rst market in Clay County to accept SNAP theme of diversity and inclusion. needs to apply. These forms are also avail-
County is not an exception. Deaths from benefi ts. The concert is in recognition of Black able on the Clay County Cruzers website at
opioids have been rising sharply for years, SNAP participants will use their Elec- History Month and the unique diversity of www.claycountycruzers.com.
and drug overdoses already kill more tronic Benefi t Transfer cards to purchase the greater Jacksonville community. This Selected candidates will be asked to
Americans under age 50 that anything tokens, worth $1 each, from the Market in- event is free and open to the public with attend a Clay County Cruzer meeting to
else, and it is predicted to get worse before formation booth. These tokens can be used limited seating available in Island View introduce themselves and describe their
it gets better,” states Debbie Rizer, presi- to purchase fresh produce, local honey, Baptist Church. plans.
dent of the Derek Hatcher Foundation, in fresh meats and eggs, homemade breads The concert will feature a brass quintet Applications and essays should be
a press release. Rizer is also Hatcher’s and pasta, and many other eligible food and a string quartet and will also feature mailed to Clay County Cruzers, P.O. Box
mother. items. choral music performed by a community 65010-9998, Orange Park, FL 32065-
During his senior year at Ridgeview “We know we have veterans, elderly choir composed of singers from across the 9998. Each applicant will be notifi ed once
High, Derek Hatcher threw more than and young families struggling to get access Jacksonville area. their application is received and winners
2,300 yards and 18 touchdowns and, as to fresh, healthy, local food and are excited If you are interested in being a part of will be announced in April.
a freshman, walked on as a punter at the to be able to offer this at our market,” said the Island View Baptist Church community
University of Arkansas. He died at the age Council member Connie Thomas. choir, call [phone] or (904)264- Calling all artists for a
of 24 in February 2016 from a drug over- The Orange Park Farmer’s & Arts Mar- 6411 or email gentlemenatheart3@gmail. T-shirt design contest
com. Choir rehearsals will be conducted at
Island View Baptist Church. MIDDLEBURG – Would-be artists have
a chance to get some notoriety and help
2018 Clay County Cruzers out a growing Clay County nonprofi t at the
Scholarships Available same time.
The Black Creek Bowl Association of
ORANGE PARK – Clay County students Middleburg is holding its annual T-shirt
who are graduating this year are eligible cover design contest. Art can be hand-
and encouraged to apply for a $1,500 drawn or computer generated. Designs will
not be returned and they become the sole
property of Association.
The design will be used in advertising
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Diamond Chrissy
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Diamond is about a year old and full of puppy Chrissy is a 2 and a half year old Turkish Van. She is
A energy. She has a huge love for pre-teen and white with a touch of brown and orange. Her eyes
teenage children which leads us to believe there are blue and captivating. Hopefully she will capture

T was a pre-teen in her former home. She is very your heart. Come and see Chrissy today.
E trainable and sits when asked. Diamond needs Safe Animal Shelter
P a loving home with a fenced in yard to expel 2913 County Road 220 Middleburg
her energy. She has been with us for a while, 904-276-7233
so please come and see her. You will love her as Wednesday-Sunday 12pm-5pm
much as we do. www.safeanimalshelter.com
CLAYTODAYONLINE.COM February 1, 2018 • CLAY TODAY 9
Briefs agencies throughout the state.
Obituaries
The graduates met for four week-long
from page 8 sessions at the Walton County Sheriff’s Of-
fice in Miramar Beach where they learned
four run entries of the race of their choice skills necessary to support the needs of
George Howard Jones Lila L. Williams
and an article in the local newspaper fea- their agencies and their communities as
George Howard Jones, 71, of Middle- Lila L. Williams, 88, of Orange Park, turing the artist & design. Hand-drawn they prepare for future challenges. The
burg, Fla., passed away Jan. 28, 2018 Fla, passed away Jan. 27, 2018 designs should measure 11-inches by goal of the Florida Leadership Academy
Broadus Raines Funeral Home, 501 Broadus Raines Funeral Home, 501 8.5-inches and be submitted on unlined is to prepare first-line supervisors in
Spring St., Green Cove Springs, FL (904) Spring St., Green Cove Springs, FL (904) white paper. Artwork must be produced criminal justice organizations to exemplify
284-4000 284-4000 with black ink using markers, paint, the character and integrity expected of
pencils or ink. Computer designs can be criminal justice professionals and to ex-
submitted in full color vector format on amine the various components necessary
CD, flash drive or email. All designs must to being an efficient leader.
include the phrases “7th Annual,” “Black
Creek 5K/10K,” and “October 20, 2018.” New hours for garbage
drop-off sites
No other company logos or names may ap-
John Paul McAleer pear in the design. Designs can be mailed GREEN COVE SPRINGS – Clay County
to BCBA, P.O. Box 2096, Middleburg, FL Department of Environmental Services
John Paul McAleer, Jr., 88, of Jackson- Roger Dale Hall 32050. Designs can be emailed to info@ announces new hours for the Clay Hill,
ville, Fla, passed away Jan. 28, 2018. Roger Dale Hall, 63 of Green Cove blackcreekbowl.com or hand-delivered to Doctors Inlet, Keystone Heights and Long
Broadus Raines Funeral Home, 501 Springs, Fla. passed away Jan. 25, 2018 April Martin at Middleburg High School Bay Environmental Convenience Centers.
Spring St., Green Cove Springs, FL (904) Russell Haven of Rest. no later than Feb. 28. An entry form must Effective Feb. 8, the new hours for
284-4000. Cemetery, Funeral Home and Cremation be provided with each submission. Do not all Clay County ECCs will be 7:30 a.m. to
Center 2335 Sandridge Road Green Cove sign the artwork. 5:30 p.m., Thursday through Saturday.
Springs, FL  32043 904-284-7720 www. This is a slight change to the centers’ cur-
RHRFH.com. Orange Park entrepreneur rent hours. They will open and close 30
appointed to state board
minutes earlier than the current sched-
TALLAHASSEE – Gov. Rick Scott ule. Please call [phone] for more
appointed an Orange Park business information.
owner to serve on the state Rehabilita-
tion Council for the Blind. Robotics teams need
community help
Rose Conry, 58, of Orange Park,
Beverly J. Mears joins two other Scott appointees to ORANGE PARK – Help a student learn
Beverly J. Mears, 75, of Orange Park, the board, which reviews, analyzes science and team-building by sponsoring
Fla., passed away Jan. 23, 2018. Richard John Brown and advises on the policy decisions your very own robotics team.
Broadus Raines Funeral Home, 501 and evaluates the effectiveness of the The robotics team OneClay
Spring St., Green Cove Springs, FL (904) Richard John Brown, 62 of Middleburg, Florida Division of Blind Services. A.R.M.O.R.Y., which stands for Advancing
284-4000. Fla. passed away Jan. 23, 2018. Scott appointed Paul Kurtz, 65, of Robotics Making Our Reality Yours from
Russell Haven of Rest Cemetery, Fu- Jacksonville, is a retired computer the Clay County School District will be
neral Home and Cremation Center 2335 specialist with Fleet Readiness Center, competing in an International FRC Compe-
Sandridge Road. to serve from Jan. 26 to August 31, tition March 7-10 in Orlando. The team is
Green Cove Springs, FL  32043 904- 2019. He also appointed Denise seeking funds and non-monetary support.
284-7720 www.RHRFH.com. Valkema, 56, of Miami, is the current All contributions go directly to the team
president of the National Federation of to fund robotic building materials, team
the Blind of Florida, to serve from Jan. shirts and travel expenses, such as lodg-
26 to August 31, 2020. ing, food and transportation.
Charles “Kenneth” Hildebrandt Conry is the chief executive officer This worldwide competition combines
Charles “Kenneth” Hildebrandt, 81, of of StaffTime Jacksonville and also the excitement of sport with the rigors
Jacksonville, Fla., passed way Jan. 24, serves as a board member on Career- of science and technology. Under strict
2018. Source Florida. rules, limited resources, and an intense
Broadus Raines Funeral Home, 501 six-week time limit, teams of students are
Spring St., Green Cove Springs, FL (904) Law enforcement officers challenged to raise funds, design a team
284-4000. graduate from Leadership “brand,” hone teamwork skills and build
Academy and program industrial-size robots to play
a difficult field game against like-minded
TALLAHASSEE – Two law en- global competitors.
forcement officers from Clay County Donors can make checks payable
recently graduated from the Florida to CCSD: ONECLAY ARMORY Robot-
Criminal Justice Executive Institute’s ics. Checks can be mailed to OneClay
Florida Leadership Academy. A.R.M.O.R.Y., Leslee Bryan, STEM Cur-
John Guzman of the Green Cove riculum Specialist, Clay County School
Springs Police Department and Chad District, 2306 Kingsley Ave., Building 16,
Ricks of the Clay County Sheriff’s Of- Orange Park, FL 32073 or call (904) 336-
At This Critical Point In Your Life.... fice were among 36 first-line supervi- 6594 for more information.
sors representing 22 criminal justice
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10 CLAY TODAY • February 1, 2018 CLAYTODAYONLINE.COM
Coalition puts fi nishing touches on Annual Drug-Free Calendar
By Kile Brewer
Some education programs continue in
Staff Writer
middle and high schools on a limited ba-
ORANGE PARK – Every fall elementary-age sis by Clay Behavioral Health, but there is
students across Clay County grab paper not enough funding to provide the level of
and crayons in the fi ght against drugs in programming that D.A.R.E. had provided
schools, doing what they can to help con- through designated school resource offi -
vince middle school and high school kids to cers.
stay drug free. “The elementary schools aren’t getting
This year, the Clay Action Coalition it at all anymore,” said Donna Wething-
received about 300 entries from students ton, Coalition executive director “What we
in fi rst through sixth grade, representing need is not all just drug education, but also
almost every elementary school in the teaching what happens when you put drugs
county for its annual drug-free calendar in your body. Kids need to learn the health
contest. Of those 300, 42 were chosen as risks as well as just learning to respect the
fi nalists and brought to the January Coali- laws [that make drugs illegal.]”
tion board meeting, where members voted Wethington said that since the cessa-
to choose the 14 illustrations that will go tion of state funded drug education pro-
into this year’s 17th annual Calendar for gramming, there has been a noticeable STAFF PHOTO BY KILE BREWER
Drug Free Schools. increase in drug use in middle schools and Entries from almost all schools, grades Kindergarten through sixth, were narrowed down to 42
fi nalists who were voted on at the Clay Action Coalition’s January meeting for use in this year’s
“Each year during Red Ribbon Week, even elementary schools, with cases of
Drug Free Schools Calendar that will come out at the beginning of the 2018-19 school year.
we go to the schools and ask art classes sixth grade students in Clay County being
to participate,” said Stephanie Geoghagan, caught smuggling marijuana in emptied-
CAC program coordinator. “The winners out highlighters. 7.2 percent of Clay students reported us- to the adults and teach them not to leave
get a certifi cate of recognition and a mon- With the CAC waiting on updated results ing prescription painkillers during their their meds sitting around the house.”
etary award.” from a student survey, they are expecting lifetime, which was well above the state The Coalition is currently writing grants
The awards are handed out at the May the numbers to have increased since the average that hovers between 5-6 percent. and appealing to the school district and
meeting of the Clay County School Board, last survey was given in 2016. That survey “We’ve seen a defi nite increase [in pre- sheriff’s offi ce for advice on how to proceed
with 14 students’ art being chosen to fi ll showed Clay County students ages 10-17 scription drug abuse] because of ease of and get more support for drug education and
each month on the calendar, in addition to were using prescription painkillers and access,” Wethington said. “We have to get prevention lectures in elementary schools.
illustrations chosen for the front and in- stimulants at a higher percentage than
side covers. Since Drug Abuse Resistance the state average, averaging between 2
Don’t Forget Valentine’s Day!
Education was phased out of schools about percent and 7 percent in that category. A
Park Avenue
three years ago, elementary schools aren’t category highlighted the stats deals with
receiving any drug resistance education. the 15-to-17-year-old age bracket where
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