The Yulee News, June 16, 2022

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June 16, 2022

“The Heart of Nassau County”

School Taxes to Increase?

Yulee Father and Grandfather Is Living His Best Life

2022 Primary Election Ballots Available for pick-up at SOE Office: July 14, 2022 Deadline to Register or Change your Party: July 25, 2022

Local Election topics to watch:

Nassau County School Board moves forward with resolution seeking a property tax increase to raise teacher pay!

Last Thursday, the Nassau County School Board moved forward with plans of increasing the county’s property taxes to help raise pay for teachers. With no opposition raised at the meeting, the School Board unanimously moved forward with hopes to add a proposed

What’s Inside

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Local News . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 In the Courts . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Outdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Buzz Around Town . 12-15

one-mill tax increase to the November ballot. What does that mean to you?

The proposal is equivalent to $1.00 per $1000.00 dollars of property value. The resolution states, “The education funds available through traditional means, such as the state funding formula and the required local millage option, do not give the Board the resources to continue improving and providing the excellence in education that students deserve.” During the meeting, Dr. Kathy Burns advised the increase is needed to recruit and retain teachers. School board member, Jamie Deonas commented that he opposes any tax increase but supports the idea.

So, what happens next?

The proposed resolution will now go before the County Commissioners possi-

Early Voting: August 10, 2022 - August 20, 2022 9 am - 6 pm daily, including Saturday & Sunday Election Day: August 23, 2022, 7 am - 7 pm bly later this Month. If the County Commissioners approve it, it could end up on the ballot in November’s general election where Nassau County voters will make the final decision.

Be Election-Ready, Nassau County!

The ballot for the August 23, 2022, Primary Election offers eligible Nassau County voters the opportunity to cast their vote in several races (see candidates and particular races below).

by Nancy Lee Bethea Being a good father is not easy. It’s even harder for men in the miliary.

Yulee resident, Rodney Morant, is a husband, father, and grandfather. He has lived in Yulee for eight years, moving here because he loved the area’s open spaces and country feel.

Morant is also a retired United States Army First Sergeant who served for 29 years. His military service took him all over the world, from Korea to Kosovo, Honduras to Hawaii, and many places in between.

While serving in Germany, Rodney met, Ute, his wife of 33 years, and they are the proud parents of two adult daughters, Natascha and Dominque.

Looking back, Rodney realizes his service to his country lessened the time he had to parent his kids. “To be truthful, between my multiple years of being in the military, which was predominantly all their lives, I was in and out. I really wasn’t there throughout the whole entire rearing of the kids, so my wife was the prominent fixture

Elections, See page 8

Father, See page 3

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Page 2

The Yulee News

June 16, 2022

Pioneers Who Lived in the Yulee Area Two Hundred Years Ago

by John Hendricks, local historian After Congress ratified the AdamsOnis Treaty in 1821 in which Spain gave Florida to the US, the early settlers living in the newly acquired American territory had to scramble to prove they owned the land on which they lived. The US government gave all Floridians an ultimatum: locate their deeds, survey their property and gather dispositions from the closest neighbors then prove to a US land court that they were the rightful owners or lose their lands. Settlers in the sparsely populated area in between the St Marys and Nassau Rivers were no different. During the next decade over two dozen settlers in today’s Yulee area began the painstakingly tedious process of gathering the necessary documents in order to retain their lands. They ranged from small families to large landowners with slave labor and from widows to war veterans. Most were successful in their claims with the US, but a couple were not as fortunate, thus they lost ownership of the land in question.

The two largest landowners in the Yulee area two hundred years ago were Eleazer Waterman and John Lowe.

Both owned adjacent sawmills on Bells River near today’s Chester.

The two largest landowners in the Yulee area two hundred years ago were Eleazer Waterman and John Lowe.

Both owned adjacent sawmills on Bells River near today’s Chester. The Spanish government granted all timber sawyers, including Waterman and Lowe, 10,000 acres called mill grants so they could harvest the timber to supply their mills.

Waterman’s total land holdings throughout the district quickly grew to 16,000 acres, making him the largest landowner in the area at the time. (Some of Waterman’s timberlands were once owned by George Arons, who was branded a rebel for participating in the short-lived 1795 rebellion against the Spanish and moved

shortly thereafter). Lowe owned 6,000 acres to the south of Waterman’s grant and together their combined land-holdings stretched from today’s Hedges northeast to Chester, then west to the US 17 blue truss bridge spanning the St. Marys River. Most of Waterman’s mill grant would remain productive timberland for the next two hundred years.

Dissecting Waterman’s mill grant is the slow, winding waterway called Lofton Creek. It was named for John Lofton who was among the first Anglo pioneers in the area, having settled here in the late 1700s.

Though not a rebel, the 1795 rebellion against Spanish rule forced Lofton from his waterfront home. Months later he returned, but then Lofton died shortly thereafter.

In 1822, his sons, William and John, had to file documents with the US courts that proved their father was the legal owner of the property, despite the senior John’s brief exodus. The two sons successfully proved their case and soon split their father’s parcel into two identical 354-acre lots that straddled the tea-colored river. There were six other families that lived on Lofton Creek in the 1820s. They were Nathaniel Wilds (who also settled here in the late 1700s), Henry Young (190 ac), John Carr, John Wingate, William Walker and John Vaughan (1075 acres). An eighth claimant, Charles Broward, could not produce the necessary documents on 100 acres on Lofton Creek, thus lost his case and his land.

Unlike the nearly-vacant land on Lofton Creek, there were many settlers living to the north on the tall sandy bluffs of the St. Marys River. There were about a dozen who lived between White Oak Plantation eastward to Rose’s Bluff. The most notable were Susan Cashen (Widow of James Cashen, Reid’s Bluff); Charles Seton (large timber landowner on the south banks of Nassau River in today’s Duval County); Spicer Christopher (Old Township/Crandall); Nathaniel Wilds (Wild’s Landing and ferry) and John Frazer (Thomas Cryer’s former plantation on the Roundabout peninsular just west of today’s I-95 St. Marys River Bridge). Settlers were not limited to owning one parcel. Susan Cashen and John Vaughan also owned land on Amelia Island during this time.

1821 survey of part of Eleazer Waterman’s vast timber grant with boundaries using the “chain” (66 feet) as the unit of measurement and carving marks in trees as reference points. The land, located north of Yulee, has been a productive timberland for 200 years. Source: Floridamemory.com.

The Nassau River is not nearly as long as its sister river, the St. Marys, yet the swift waterway drains well over half of today’s Nassau County watershed. At the time of the Adams-Onis Treaty, there were about a half-dozen settlers living on the north banks of this river. Moving

In all, over two dozen landowners living in the 1820s in the area now called Yulee had to file claims in the US land court. Some cases were not resolved until well into the 1830s. eastward from today’s Four Creeks Preserve to Nassauville, they were Robert Harrison (880 ac), John Uptgrove (Peach Orchard), Cyrus Briggs (798 ac) and

John Christopher (698 ac, Santa Maria, Nassauville).

In all, over two dozen landowners living in the 1820s in the area now called Yulee had to file claims in the US land court. Some cases were not resolved until well into the 1830s. A couple of claims were dismissed while others had to be resolved by the heirs after the claimants died. But for most of these settlers, their perseverance paid off and they were able to stay and continue to cultivate their properties. In 1824, they become citizens of the newly formed county of Nassau.

John Hendricks is a local historian and director of the West Nassau Historical Society. You can join him on the 4th Thursdays of each month at 6:30 pm at their meeting inside the historic Callahan Train Depot.

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June 16, 2022

The Yulee News

Father, from page 1 father role,” he added.

Rodney Morant (right) smiles with his grandson, Hezekiah, 3.

in their lives,” Rodney said.

“I tried to make the most of the time I did have with our kids. Being in the military, your job takes you away from that

There were times when Rodney found humor in fatherhood. When he got home from a deployment in Cuba years ago, Rodney saw one of his girls coming around the family’s minivan. “I said, ‘Hi, baby! How are you doing, Natascha?’ My daughter looked at me and said, ‘I’m not Natascha! I’m Dominique!’ Then, Natascha came around the corner. She had had a growth spurt, so she was a lot taller when I came back home,” he shared.

“Here I was thinking the older one was the younger one, and the younger one was the older one!” Rodney added with a chuckle.

But that funny moment changed Rodney’s perspective on his military career.

He realized his family and his country had to share him.

Now that Rodney is retired and a grandfather, he spends lots of time with his two grandchildren, Leia, 4, and Hezekiah, 3. He cherishes being with them. “I actually got to be in the hospital when they were born, and now, I guess you could say, I’m living that father role

through my grandkids, from the difficult times when they’re throwing tantrums to the multiple questions. And, oh my goodness, do they have questions!” he said.

Rodney and Ute keep their grandkids several days each week. “I don’t have a job to go to, so we get to be with them and take them different places,” Rodney said. The couple loves to travel with their grandkids, as well as take them to the beach, to fish, to Ft. Clinch, to the pool, to the zoo, and to gymnastics events. “They keep us on our toes,” he added.

With the perspective he has now, Rodney sees a similarity between being a father and being an army officer. “I was what they call an ‘army father,’” he said.

“You have these young adults in the military, male or female, who didn’t have a father figure in their lives.” They tend to gravitate to strong discipline, he added, which prepared him for the time when his own children got older. “Of course, you have to remember, you can’t treat your own kids like you treat your soldiers!” he said.

Treating your kids well means spend-

Page 3 ing time with them and being involved in their lives, according to Rodney. “Sometimes, your kids don’t want you to lecture them, they just want you to listen,” he said.

The same is true with people serving in the military. “Sometimes, people just want to be heard. And if you just listen to them, let them just explain themselves or work through their issues, ninety percent of the time, they’ll figure their way out,” Rodney said.

Rodney is living his best life in Yulee with his wife, his daughters close by, and the opportunity to spend time with his grandchildren. It’s a little different this time around, though, because there’s a grandson in the mix.

“I had two girls, but now I have a young man. I’m stumbling a little on how to raise a young man. Hopefully, I’ll be here when he’s an adult and onward,” he said.

He also seeks to follow his own advice for fathers. “Be involved. Know you kids. Try to be there as much as you can,” he added.

Yulee’s Ditch Witches Are Good for the Community

Anna Barber (left), Cheryl Bush (middle), and Janett Bayless (right) head out for duty as Ditch Witches in Yulee.

by Nancy Lee Bethea When you think of witches, you may remember the sound of cackling laughter or picture pointy black hats at Halloween.

Yulee has its own brand of witches who laugh and wear those cone-shaped hats.

But these witches’ hats are not black, and the spells they cast over the area are full of love and kindness for our community.

The Ditch Witches started around Labor Day last year when Yulee resident and retired elementary school teacher, Anna Barber, rounded up a few friends she knew from church and started picking up trash from the shoulders on and around Miner Road.

The activity benefited the community, but it also proved healthy for Anna who taught school for 30 years before retiring 20 years ago. “My doctor told me I needed to get out and walk. That very first

day, we only walked from my house to the end of the road and back, and I was beat!”

Anna said. The ladies increased their distance gradually and now, they walk up to two and a half miles two or three days a week. “We have walked the full length of Miner Road,” Anna added.

Needless to say, Anna’s doctor is proud of her progress.

Anna has also made progress with the custom hats she designs for herself and the other Ditch Witches. Each holiday warrants its own set of pointy hats for the ladies, including Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, and the Fourth of July.

The witches also wear yellow traffic vests and holiday-themed clothing. They carry signs with positive messages, such as “Be Safe,” and they wave them at motorists passing by.

When school got out back in May, the

Ditch Witches waved signs for the kids on the buses as they left for summer break.

The kids waved back from bus windows, and the drivers honked their horns.

Speaking of horns, Anna said they get a lot of honks from thankful motorists every time they are outside. “People driving by honk at us, and the Florida geese honk, of course,” Anna said with a chuckle.

Yulee resident, Cheryl Bush, is a retired Registered Nurse who finds numerous benefits in being a Ditch Witch.

“We are picking up trash, but there’s a lot more to it than that,” Cheryl said. “You meet people, you meet their pets. There’s nature, the birds are singing and you’re getting your exercise. It’s a great thing to do. It’s very peaceful.”

In addition to enjoying nature, Cheryl loves the opportunity to help people. One time, the Ditch Witches found an open mailbox and a check on the ground nearby. They took the check to the homeowner who was very grateful they had found it, Cheryl shared.

She sees trash in more places now.

“You become more aware, even in a parking lot. I’ll see bottle caps and other stuff, and it bothers me. You notice things you didn’t notice before. Little things make a big difference. They really do,” she said.

Yulee resident, Janett Bayless, is another Ditch Witch. Now retired, she worked as an elementary data entry clerk and a database administrator with the Nassau County School District. Janett is known as the “dog whisperer” of the group because she gives treats to any dogs the witches might encounter. She also names the canines. So far, they have befriended Elvis, Wags, and Bright Eyes on their regular routes.

Janett also collects discarded cans when the group goes out, which she and

her husband recycle. The couple also give away can-collection baskets they make out of old bicycle tires and wire.

Janett enjoys walking with the other Ditch Witches in community parades.

“The St. Mary’s [Georgia] Pirates walked with us and invited us to be in the Mardi Gras parade in Kingsland,” Janett said.

Of course, this meant the ladies made and wore Mardi Gras-themed witch hats.

“We also walked in the Christmas parade,” Janett said. “Everybody loved our Christmas hats. They had lights. They were just beautiful.”

Moving forward, Cheryl would love to get a Ditch Witch group started around Blackrock and Chester Roads.

“If anyone wants to join me, I’d be thrilled because I don’t like to go by myself,” Cheryl added.

If you’re interested in helping or meeting the Ditch Witches, just head out to Miner Road most mornings around 8:30, and you’ll see Anna, Cheryl, and Janett. They would love to meet you, and they might just make you a hat!

Page 4

The Yulee News

Recipe

Corner

Cool Treats for Hot Days ORANGE CREAM POPS

YIELD: 8 SERVINGS 1 banana 1 cup vanilla yogurt, whole milk 1 cup fresh-squeezed orange juice 1 Tbsp honey Combine all the ingredients in a blender until smooth. Pour blended mixture into molds, leaving ½ inch for them to expand. Freeze until hard, about 4 hours. When ready to eat, run under warm water and remove from the mold.

Variations: omit bananas or substitute milk with full-fat coconut milk.

MIXED BERRY POPS

YIELD: 8 SERVINGS 2 cups mixed berries (frozen or fresh) 1 ripe banana ¾ cup fresh-squeezed orange juice 1 cup milk 1 cup plain yogurt 1 Tbsp honey Combine all the ingredients in a blender and process until smooth. Pour blended mixture into molds, leaving ½ inch for it to expand. Freeze until hard, about 4 hours. When ready to eat, run under warm water and remove from the mold.

Variations: omit bananas or substitute milk with full-fat coconut milk. For smoothies, add 2 cups of ice to the recipe and pour the blended mixture into a glass.

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June 16, 2022

STRAWBERRY CHEESECAKE POPSICLES

Strawberry Cheesecake Popsicles are the perfect summer treat. Fresh strawberries, cream cheese, yogurt and graham cracker crumbs, combine to make this delicious, creamy, frozen version of a classic dessert.

YIELDS: 16 Servings 8 oz. cream cheese (room temperature) 2 cups vanilla Greek yogurt 1 can sweetened condensed milk 1 lb. fresh strawberries (washed, hulled and cut in 1/2) 1/2 cup honey graham crumbs 1/8 tsp. Lorann strawberry oil Red food colouring (optional) Get your frozen treat molds ready. In a bowl add the cream cheese and beat with a hand blender. Blend in the Greek yogurt. Blend in the condensed milk. Add the strawberry oil Add food colouring (if using). Add the strawberries, and using an immersion blender, blend until smooth. Add the graham crumbs and stir to combine. Pour into molds and place in freezer until frozen.

WATERMELON FRUIT SALAD FEATURING SPARKLING ICE

½ watermelon – cut into pieces 1 orange – cut into pieces ½ cup cherries in light syrup – pitted ½ cup sliced pineapple Zest and juice of 1 lime 1 inch piece of fresh ginger – sliced very thin ½ cup feta cheese – crumbled For the Sparkling Ice Syrup ½ cup Black Raspberry Sparkling Ice ½ cup sugar 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar 2 sprigs fresh rosemary In a small sauce pan heat the Black Raspberry Sparkling Ice; add the sugar, vinegar and rosemary and over medium -low heat stir until the mixture begins to thicken. Cool the syrup down and refrigerate. Serve over the fruit salad.

KEY LIME SMOOTHIE

6 oz Fat Free Yogurt, Key Lime Pie 6 Ice Cubes 1 Tbs Lime Juice 2 Tbs Fat Free Milk 1 Tbs Lite Cool Whip Blend until smooth

June 16, 2022

ACROSS

1 Key quality that leads to a happy life (integrity) 5 Years of youth 8 Intimidate 9 Works with clay

11 Relating to Hindu and Buddhist mystical texts relating to yoga, meditation and mantras 15 Disliked intensely 17 Arrival time, abbr.

18 Protected 20 Do research, 2 words 24 Celtic singer 25 Isolated 26 Eastern discipline 30 The establishing of a rapport and relationship 31 Travel 32 Evergreen tree 33 Animal companions 34 Soothing spa treatment

DOWN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 10 12 13 14 16 18 19 21 22 23 27 28 29 31 32

The Yulee News

Crossword Puzzle

Addiction Hose material Blurt out Sure!

Stereotypical role for a man, 2 words Ability to relate to someone else and their feelings Family girl, for short First aid box Southern state, abbr.

Relating to Social worker’s assignment Fall a little Comfort Often the subject of stress in a family Nashville locale, abbr.

24 hours Stomach problems associated with stress Love deeply Flower supporter Kid’s playthings Band booking Scaled note

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Page 6

The Yulee News

June 16, 2022

IN THE COURTS LETTER TO THE

EDITOR Have any ideas or thoughts of what you would like to see in The Yulee News?

Let us know!

FELONY

Brandon Duane Esses Hilliard, FL (2 counts) Possession of controlled substance, Possession of drug paraphernalia 6/10/22 Patrick Fisher-Mcallops Jacksonville. FL Possession of methamphetamine, Grand theft motor vehicle.

6/10/22 Kristopher Robert Stranz Yulee, FL DUI alcohol or drugs 4th or subsq. offense, Refuse to submit to DUI test Intimidation threat with death/serious bodily harm leo, Driving while license suspended or revoked.

6/8/22 John Hayden Thomas Callahan, FL Possession of controlled substance.

6/8/22

Michael Henry Samson Fernandina Beach, FL Aggravated battery upon a person 65 or older 6/8/22

Kristina Renee Thompson Fernandina Beach, FL Possession of methamphetamine, Trespass in structure or conveyance after warning 6/8/22 Robert Allen Wilson Yulee, FL Sale of methamphetamine, Sale or delivery of fentanyl.

6/8/22 Vance Emanuel Harris Atlantic Beach, FL Possession of methamphetamine, Trespass in structure or conveyance after warning.

6/8/22

John Lee Finley Yulee, FL (2 counts) Sexual battery 18 year or older by person 18 year or older, Possession of controlled substance, Battery.

6/6/22 David Everett Boone Possession of controlled substance, Possession of drug paraphernalia, Driving while license suspended or revoked.

6/6/22 Henry David Lange Tavares, FL Trespass in a posted construction site, Obstruction or opp. a police officer without violence, Disorderly intoxication 6/6/22

Dwayne Durrelle Holland Jr. Fernandina Beach, FL Driving while license suspended habitual offender.

6/6/22

Wayne Allen Rowland Atlantic Beach, FL Possession of methamphetamine, (3 counts) Possession of drug paraphernalia.

6/6/22

Nevaeh Christine Lucas Jacksonville, FL Possession of cocaine.

6/6/22

Melissa Michelle Phillips Silver Springs, FL Possession of controlled substance, Tampering or fabricating with physical evidence.

6/3/22

Grady Lee Kelley Jr. Yulee, FL Possession of heroin, Possession of methamphetamine, Obstruction or opp. a police officer without violence 6/6/22

Joshua Anthony William Deloach Silver Springs, FL Possession of controlled substance, Tampering or fabricating with physical evidence.

6/8/22

MISDEMEANOR Tessa Marie Wall Yulee, FL Obst or opp a police officer without violence.

6/10/22

Amanda Fay Messer Callahan, FL Battery.

6/9/22 Christopher Clar Cheshire Yulee, FL Possession of less than 20 grams of cannabis.

6/6/22 William Arlie Winebarger Yulee, FL Trespass in structure or conveyance.

6/6/22 Ronald Jason Allard Yulee, FL Disorderly intoxication.

6/6/22 Robert Samuel Williams Fernandina Beach, FL Inhalation of chemical substance.

6/6/22.

904.761.2679 editor@theyuleenews.com

The Nassau County Courthouse: 76347 Veteran’s Way / William Burgess Road, Built 2002–2003

The News Poll:

Buzz of the Week What types of business are needed in the Yulee area that would benefit the community?

Susan Brooks Personally I think that there are not enough resources and activities in the areas for kids. I think we would benfit from more business that focus on kids.

June 23 2022. What are your feelings on the increase in property taxes to pay for teachers salaries?

Please comment on our Facebook page or email us at theyuleenews@gmail.com

Phone: 904.761.2679 • Email: TheYuleeNews@gmail.com

Published by STAFF Art Director and Design Susan Jones - Kaitlin Morgan

Reporter Nancy Lee Bethea

Business Hours & Deadlines Deadlines Advertising Due - Every Monday Printing - Every Wednesday

Business Hours Monday - Friday 8:00AM - 5:00PM

© 2022 by The Yulee News. The Yulee News reserves the right to refuse advertisements. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, and we are not responsible for the products and services that are advertised.

Please be aware that The Yulee News requires prior permission in writing for certain types of reproduction.

The Yulee News is a free weekly publication distributed in and around Nassau County, and it is solely supported by our local advertisers. You can support them by calling us to place copies of our publication at your business.

www.TheYuleeNews.com

June 16, 2022

The Yulee News

Page 7

ADOPT ME! SADIE STORM

Sadie Storm is about two-years-old, and weighs 47 pounds. She has the friendliest personality. Her coat is a molten chocolate with vanilla highlights.

If you are considering adding Sadie Storm to your fuzzy family, we recommend a meet and greet.

RAMBO BO

Rambo Bo was dropped off and his owner never returned to get him. He is quite gentle and needs a loving home! Rambo Bo has heartworms, but when you foster a dog with heartworms the adoption fee is waived once they are in the clear, should you choose to adopt.

JUST

HOUNDO

Adopted

Houndo weighs 50 pounds and is about five-years-old.

She is extremely friendly, gentle, playful, affectionate, and good with kids. Houndo has heartworms. When you foster a heartworm dog, we provide the medication and tests and once the dog is clear, should you choose to adopt them, we waive the adoption fee.

EREBUS

Congratulations Angela A. on adopting your new friend!

DRAKE Nassau County

Nassau County

Road Department

Engineering Services

The Road Department performs maintenance on County maintained roads including paving, grading and applying surface treatments.

Engineering Services is responsible for the design, inspection & administration of public works improvements within the County.

Nassau County

Building Department Permit Type

Issued

New Builds, Additions, Rehabs, Roofs, Siding, Signs

4,804

Drake weighs 42 pounds and is about six-years-old, Mobile Home & Modular Hame but still acts like a puppy. She is a playful,Electrical energetic Work Orders Completed 2,390 other dogs, girl.

Drake does well around but we Mechanical Driveway/Sidewalk Permits 1,693 Issued Dirt Roads Maintained Plumbing always recommend a (Miles) meet180 and greet at the shelter.

Utility Permits Issued

188

Pond/Borrow Pit Permits Issued

UPCOMING ADOPTION EVENTS: Saturday, June 18 | 10 am - 3 pm Wildlight Market, Yulee Saturday, June 25 | 10 am -3 pm Petco Atlantic Avenue, Jacksonville All pets are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, and come with an ID microchip. New pet parents who adopt a pet at Petco receive 10% off their first order and a coupon book with $450 in Petco merchandise and services.

Flashers Maintained

County Rd. 115 progress

• • • • • •

Beach for dune protection 0.53 acres of land purchased to expand Holly Point boat ramp

New Transport Van

32,717

28

LSF Ditches Cleaned

110,940

30

Miles of ROW Mowed

1,043

34

Fleet Repairs

1,047

•

New Lighting for Outdoor Basketball Courts in Yulee

New Cattery

Contractor Licenses

394 1157

Inspections Performed

34,881

Smart Lockers

Added smart lockers at Fernandina Branch and James Page Building to expand Library Services Upgrades to public access computers Expanded Yulee Branch and supplied with new furnishings and equipment Implemented credit card processing at all branches Created new online registration for library cards Completed RFID tagging at Callahan and Yulee Branches

•

Animal Services Provided in 2020/2021 Intake • • • • • • • •

Maintained no-kill status for shelter Upgraded computers and camera systems Covered the remaining outdoor kennels

6

Medical Euthanasia

38

Owner Requested Euthanasia

38

Transfers

137

Adoptions

1,536

Return to Owner

530

Total Calls for Service

Fire Station 71 opened June 5, 2021 New Engine 71 placed into service

•

NCFR in top 14% of agencies in the nation Awarded a FEMA Safer Grant valued at $1.7 million

Brush Fires

Fire Alarms

465

Medical Alarms

239

•

Awarded an Emergency Medical Services Grant

HAZMAT

34

Vehicle Crashes

596

Pediatric Airway/Medication Systems Awarded a Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation Equipment Grant valued at $49,978 for the purchase of two new rescue boats

Structure Fires

85

Cardiac Trauma

133

Vehicle Fires

68

Suicide Attempt

1

Investigations

417

Water Rescue

26

65

86078 License Road, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034

Medical Calls

2,445

Euthanasia

Replaced the medical transport/adoption event van Cattery expansion completed allowing for increased capacity and large scale isolation Held 16 adoption events 503 pets placed in foster homes

Phone: 904-530-6150 | Toll Free: 855-242-6964 9,363 Fax: 904-225-3894 •

3,850

This sad boy was dropped off at the shelter and no one came back for him. Terrell is about two-years-old.

• Terrell is gentle and knows some basic commands.

• • •

Roof added to Outdoor Kennels

• • •

2,513

Other Activities

TERRELL

Cleaned mobi-mats at beach accesses Finalized conceptual plan for Westside Regional Park Added lighting to ouside basketball courts at Yulee Sports Complex to expand usable time

LSF Drains Cleaned

141 3,278

6,949

Search & Rescue Training

New Engine 71

Page 8 The Yulee News

THE POWER OF POLLS 2022 PRIMARY ELECTION COMING UP

Elections, from page 1

by Nancy Lee Bethea

minor political party they are registered or even if they are registered without a specific party affiliation:

Please remember, Florida is a closed 1. If all the candidates for an office have primary state. This means only voters the same party affiliation and the winwho are registered members of political ner of the Primary parties may vote for respective party candiPlease remember, Florida is Election will not face dates or nominees for a closed primary state. This any opposition in the general election (i.e. an office in a Primary means only voters who are no write-in candidates Election including a registered members of have qualified), then Presidential Preferpolitical parties may vote for all registered voters ence Primary Election. respective party candidates can vote for any of A person can register with a party or nominees for an office in a the candidates for that office in the Primary or change his or her Primary Election Election. party affiliation at any including a Presidential time, but in order to Preference Primary Election. 2. If races for nonparvote for a party cantisan (i.e., free from didate in an upcomparty affiliation) judicial and school board ing Primary Election, the person must offices, nonpartisan special districts or register with that party or change his or local referendum questions are on the her party by the registration deadline for that Primary Election (applicable also to a Primary Election ballot, then all registered Presidential Preference Primary Election). voters, including those without party affiliation are entitled to vote those Please see Florida Statute section 97.055 races on the ballot. for more information.

At a General Election, all registered There are times, however, when all voters receive the same ballot and may registered voters can vote in a Primary vote for any candidate or question on the Election, regardless of which major or

DISTRICT 1

SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER

DISTRICT 2

COUNTY COMMISSIONER

DISTRICT 4

COUNTY COMMISSIONER

PICTURED ABOVE: Aaron Bell, A.M. “Hupp” Huppman, Thomas Ford, Alyson McCullough, Jeanne H. Scott, George Spicer

ballot. If there are write-in candidates who have qualified for a particular office, a space will be left on the ballot where their name can be written.

In order to vote in the August 23 Primary Election, you must be registered.

You can register online, in person, or by mail. To register online, please visit https://registertovoteflorida.gov/home. To register in person, please visit the Nassau County Supervisor of Elections office located at 96135 Nassau Place, Suite 3, in Yulee, or you may visit other voter registration agencies listed at https://www.votenassaufl.gov/voter-registration-agencies.

To register by mail, please complete and sign a Florida Voter Registration Applica-

DISTRICT 3

SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER

tion (available at https://www.votenassaufl.gov/. Click on the “Voters” tab, then on the “Register to Vote” tab to download the application.

Please remember, the deadline to register to vote or to update your registration information for the Primary Election is Monday, July 25, 2022. Early voting will take place at five locations across Nassau County from Wednesday, August 10, through Saturday, August 20, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, including Saturday and Sunday.

To register to vote or to update your registration information, please visit www. votenassau.org or call the Nassau County Supervisor of Elections office at 904-4917500.

DISTRICT 5

SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER

PICTURED ABOVE: Jamie Deonas, Patrick Pavelock, Shannon G. Hogue, Albert J. Wagner, David T. Dew, Curtis S. Gaus, Ashley M. Benoit, Lissa Braddock

s • June 16, 2022

Page 9

UPCOMING PRIMARY RACES County Commissioner District 2: Aaron Bell Hupp Huppman County Commissioner District 4: Thomas Ford George Spicer Alyson McCullough Jeanne H. Scott

School Board Member District 1: Jamie Deonas Shannon G. Hogue Rick Pavelock School Board Member District 3: David T. Dew Curtis Gaus Albert J. Wagner

School Board Member District 5: Ashley M. Benoit Lissa Braddock Ocean, Highway and Port Authority District 3: Justin Taylor Scott Hanna

Ocean, Highway and Port Authority District 4: Kyle J. Caswell Ray E. Nelson Ocean, Highway and Port Authority District 5: Mike Cole

DISTRICT 5 DISTRICT 4 DISTRICT 3 OCEAN, HIGHWAY & PORT AUTHORITY MEMBER PICTURED ABOVE: Scott T. Hanna, Justin M. Taylor, Ray E. Nelson, Mike Cole

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Page 10

The Yulee News

June 16, 2022

OUTDOORS

HUNTING • BOATING • CAMPING • FISHING

Got a Tall Tail?

Do you have a favorite fishing, hunting or boating story?

CATCH OF THE WEEK

To the right: David Burkhart June 10, 2022 Great flounder day.

Caught a bunch, 3 keepers.

TIDE TIMES FOR WEEK OF JUNE 14-20

Send us an email to theyuleenews@gmail.com with a photo, name and location.

Above: Paul Vancelette June 8 at 2:47 PM · Fernandina Beach at Little Talbot State Park.

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Editor/Reporter - The Yulee News weekly newspaper is looking for an Editor/Reporter. Apply with resume and samples to: theyuleenews@gmail.com.

Lawn Service - Local Company in Need of a regular landscaper/lawn service. Please call Liberty Bail Bonds at 904-225.0002.

PUBLIC NOTICE 2009 Nissan Versa - Does not belong to me and hasn’t since March 18, 2021. Individual that received the vehicle has not registered it in their name. VIN 3N1BC13E29L493812.

OBITUARIES

Connie Jason Bass Sr., age 56 of Yulee, Fl passed away June 7, 2022. He was proceeded in death by his son, Harley and Father, Connie. Jason is survived by his children, C.J. (Sharon), Donavan (Jamie) and Zachary Bass; grandchildren, Bentley, Briggs, Ella and Brooks Bass. Mother, Clara Bass, siblings Teresa (Danny) Bryant, Alicia (Andy) Woolard, Kevin (Tonya) Bass. Several nieces, nephews and great nieces and great nephews. A memorial will be held at a later date.”

OBITUARY POLICY: Obituaries are published free of charge by The Yulee News. To submit information on obituaries please call 904.583.9096 or email theyuleenews@gmail.com.

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Page 12

The Yulee News

June 16, 2022

Buzz around Town Public Safety Announcement Razor Blades were found north/main beach area by Reefer Road. A citizen has informed The Yulee News that she was approached by a gentleman on the beach with a metal detector who had found around 20 razor blades sticking out of the sand, someone having intentionally placed them there. She quoted, “I don’t know who would do this, but they’re obviously messed up. Just wanted everyone to be aware of their surroundings when walking on our beaches. Keep your eyes peeled folks and stay safe!”

State Budget for Fiscal Year Approved for 2022-2023!

A Message from Janice Ancrum, President & CEO I am very happy to report that we made it through Governor Ron DeSantis’s approved state budget for Fiscal Year 20222023! NCCOA’s Fernandina Beach Senior Life Center at 1901 Island Walk Way will receive a $1.3 million appropriation for interior and exterior safety-related renovations. These include parking lot repair and resurfacing, streamlined updating for the AC and heating system, restroom upgrades and outdoor green space for post-COVID activities.

As you may know, the state’s approved $109.9 billion budget included

more than $3.13 billion in vetoed spending. However, thanks to the hard work and dedication of Sen. Aaron Bean (D-4), President Pro Tempore and Chair, Appropriations Subcommittee on Health and Human Services, and newly appointed Secretary of State and former Rep. Cord Byrd (D-11), NCCOA’s Life Center will be even more safe and secure for Nassau County seniors. Our Westside Senior Life Center benefited from renovation- and repair-related updates during the 2020 and 2021 state budget appropriation process.

Since the grand opening in 2018, our Fernandina Beach facility has welcomed thousands and thousands of seniors. Parts of the campus are now in desperate need of maintenance and repair work. This recent appropriation will go a long way to enable us in providing continued safety and security for our members and guests.

Gov. DeSantis, Sen. Bean and Sec.

Byrd, you have our endless gratitude!

In other news, we hosted a very special guest at the Fernandina Beach Senior Life Center in late May. Michelle L. Branham, Secretary, Florida Department of Elder Affairs (DOEA), stopped by to see our operation for herself and discuss issues affecting Northeast Florida seniors. (See article in this issue.) The Florida DOEA is the primary state agency responsible for administering human services programs for the elderly and for developing policy recommendations for long-term care.

In so many ways, NCCOA and Florida DOEA share the same mission of helping to ensure quality of life for Nassau County seniors. Needless to say, Sec. Branham was extremely impressed and promised her continuing support.

Thank you for your support of our programs, our services and our seniors!

Passion and Purpose Drive Nassau County Young Republicans Nassau County has a unique appeal to those not native to the area with what seems to be a county that is especially hospitable to diversity and outsiders. The days of everyone being born and raised here are gone. Now, we have a community of people who perhaps weren’t born and raised here but instead are made to feel as if they were.

Since the 50s, the Florida Federation of Young Republicans has been an organization full of passionate, competent people who want to serve and better their community. To me, this local charter of the FFYR acts as a beacon of hope, doing an excellent job of bringing people together.

The first time I went to an NCYR meeting, I immediately felt a connection. I was greeted by strangers and was instantly welcomed into the community despite not being a native. The leadership of the club listened to the members, not dictating the meeting. They were able to guide conversations while agreeing, without taking control. I believe their leadership style is why the club is continuing to blossom.

After several meetings and discussions, I began to find a role inside the club overseeing the social media operations.

At our May meeting, we had the

pleasure of hosting Senator Aaron Bean.

Senator Bean is one of those souls that remembers the people he interacts with.

He went above and beyond to join our family of motivated members. He remembers the stories of my father who was a career firefighter. My father died in 2013 from work-related cancer that wasn’t recognized at the time. The good senator recalled with me the images I shared with him years ago of my father’s struggles.

What makes Senator Bean relevant to this is that he is a deep thinker and considerate of the dynamic within the club that he feels a relation to. Our senior leadership served in the military, and it is obvious that the senator appreciates the struggles they must have faced.

This leadership is operated by two brothers - chairman and vice chairman of the club - who both served as Marines in Iraq. Senator Bean recognized that and emboldened the club by it with his open arms and proud affiliation. These are characteristics of people that need to be advertised. After just one single in depth conversation with either of these brothers on the topic of your choice, you will suddenly realize that they are the patriots to surround yourself with when getting involved in politics. They don’t point out their glory but instead illustrate it through action. These are the things that I look for when knowing who to associate with.

Politics will always be politics. I will never agree with one elected official on every single issue.

However, I look for their heart and

motives. You can tell when a person is authentic. It’s natural.

There is no such thing as a perfect person, let alone a perfect politician. You just must find the ones that want to serve and listen at the same time. In this rare case, I’ve found that they include those who want to serve without being politicians, who I greatly admire.

At our May meeting, candidates were there to give their heartfelt testimonies of why they are passionate about running.

Candidates who are involved in the same race sat in the same room with respect and care for their opponents. This is what makes the Nassau County Young Republicans so special. We are a family that truly respects each other, even if we disagree on policy issues. We can disagree but understand the heart behind why each person feels the way they do. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to candidates share why they are running. Then, I look at their actions. Have they only showed during election cycle?

Have they been someone who’s active with the people and consistently served no matter the time period?

Voting is such a sacred honor and responsibility of us that recognize those that bled and died for, and I encourage each voter to research the candidates they believe is the best person for the job. You will never agree with one single candidate 100% of the time, but you can at least discern who is most likely to listen and take your issues to heart. I, for one, will never forget when Senator Bean showed up as we were fighting for certain cancers to

be recognized as a health-related illness for firefighters. I also encourage people to show up and be passionate about the people they support. If there is a club to be a part of, it’s this one hand down. The leadership seems to be most concerned with national level issues but especially allows their platform to be used for local issues. It is why they have asked me to write this article knowing and considering my argument of how equally important local issues are. Be an informed voter on the data, but don’t forget to look at the heart of the candidates. Get to know them and see if you truly feel like they listen. If they currently serve, think about their track record. Have they been available for you to ask questions? Did they listen to your concerns and act on them?

At the end of the day, I want to be a part of organizations that can come together to promote a healthy collaborative community. The Nassau County Young Republicans is a great example of like minded Americans that truly care about each other and their community. We are looking forward to our June meeting on the 21st at Gator’s Dockside in Yulee, at 7 PM. We will have guest speaker Sheriff Bill Leeper to give us words of wisdom and encouragement in these hard times.

Aside from having the good sheriff do us this honor, we will also be allowing all interested candidates to be video interviewed for our Facebook page. We look forward to seeing many new faces! Please bring your A game as the patriots will be present.

June 16, 2022

The Yulee News

Page 13

Buzz around Town Passport Day The Fernandina Beach Library will be hosting another Passport Day on Saturday, June 25, 2022 from 9am-5pm. During this event, you can apply for a passport and get your passport photo taken on site!

Appointments are strongly encouraged, however walk-ins are also welcome.

If you have any questions or to make an appointment, call (904) 530-6508 or email libraryinfo@ nassaucountyfl.com. Event sponsored by the Friends of the Fernandina Library.

Keep Nassau Beautiful Announces Annual Board Recruitment Campaign Keep Nassau Beautiful today announced opening its summer board recruitment campaign running from June 1 through June 30, 2022.

Keep Nassau Beautiful, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, is seeking new board members who bring diversity, fresh energy and a passion for community service. These newest board members will join our team’s 2-year board member rotation. In addition to attending five or more bimonthly meetings, board members are expected to join Keep Nassau Beautiful, attend two or more volunteer events per year, and actively participate in one of the organization’s standing committees.

“When I moved to Nassau County in 2019, I learned about Keep Nassau Beautiful and reached out – and I’m so glad that I did. It’s been a wonderful way to meet new people, participate in great events, and to make a positive contribution to my community,” says Kelley McCarter, a second term KNB Board Member from Yulee, FL. New board members are eligible to seek officer positions after one year of satisfactory service. Directors find that they gain valuable experience while making a positive impact throughout Nassau County communities. While board members serve in a volunteer capacity, they are provided liability insurance with respect to their roles on the board.

To obtain a copy of the full roles and responsibilities of Keep Nassau Beautiful board members and the board member application form, https://keepnassaubeautiful.org/aboutus/#join or contact the Nominating Committee Chair at knb@keepnassaubeautiful.org.

National Active and Retired Federal Employees June 21, Meeting.

Chapter 2273 of NARFE (National Active and Retired Federal Employees Assn.) is meeting on Tuesday, June 21 at 11:00 AM. The meeting will be held at The Pig Bar-B-Q at 450102 S.R. 200 in Callahan. Our guest speakers will be Hupp Huppman and Paul Lore. Hupp and Paul were 2 of the 4 local vets that rowed across the Atlantic to raise funds for veterans care. In addition, Chris Miller, the Chief of Staff for Congressman Rutherford will be attending.

All active and retired federal and postal employees, and their families are welcome to attend. Attendees start arriving after 11 AM and have lunch on their own. The formal program will start around noon. Chapter 2273 has regular luncheon meetings the third Tuesday of the month, except Dec. For additional information and non-members, contact Greg D’Alessio at 904-347-3338 (C) or gregdale713@gmail.com.

Photo Credits: Deremer Studios

FAC Calendar Contest The Florida Association of Counties’ Annual Calendar Contest has opened! This year’s them is “Keep Calm and Love Water” which will highlight Florida’s beautiful bodies of water including lakes, rivers, oceans and springs. If you have photos you would like to enter, you can do so by visiting the Florida Association of Counties https://www.fl-counties.com/2023-fac-calendar-photo-contest/.

Please note that there is no limit on the number of photos you can submit however to be considered for publication, your photo must be at least 3000 pixels / 300 DPI. Photos with logos, names, titles, date stamps, or watermarks will not be considered.

Photographers will receive photo credit if their photo is chosen for the publication.

The deadline to submit photos is Tuesday, August 19th. The winners will be announced in November during FAC’s Legislative Conference. If a photo from Nassau County is selected, we will share that information here as well.

Puzzle Solution

Page 14

The Yulee News

June 16, 2022

Buzz around Town

Leadership Class 20 Graduates Please join us in congratulating the graduates of Leadership Nassau Class 20, including Nassau County’s very own Assistant Facilities Director, Jeff Little! (pictured back row, far left) Leadership Nassau is a 10 month program sponsored by the Nassau County Chamber of Commerce designed to develop the skills of community leaders by providing an understanding of problems, opportunities and issues facing our community.

Class 20 was put on hold in 2020 due to the onset of COVID. Fortunately, the participants were given an opportunity to complete the course and graduated in May of this year. We commend them all for their dedication and look forward to seeing their future achievements!

The Chamber is currently accepting applications for Class 22. The deadline to apply is 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 30th. If you are interested, please fill out the attached application and return it to the Chamber. If you have any questions, please contact Lynne Starling at (904) 261-3248 or via email at Lynne@NassauCountyFLChamber.com.

Ribbon Cutting for Public Safety Training Center On Wednesday, July 13, 2022 at 11:00 a.m., the Board will host a Ribbon Cutting celebrating the completion of Phase One of the Public Safety Training Center. The event will take place at the site located at 153322 County Road 108, Yulee, FL 32097.

The Board hosted a ground-breaking event on March 21, 2021, to celebrate commencement of construction. The first phase consisting of gun ranges and temporary parking is now complete. Phase Two of the project will commence in the very near future and will include construction of the classroom building, a storage building, and resurfacing of the parking lot.

Standing left to right are Paul Lore from FOAR from Home; Mike Doran, Chairman of the Veterans Council of Nassau County; Fred Blaz, Veterans4Veterans Executive Director; Nassau County Commissioner John Martin, Mentor Coordinator for Veterans Treatment Court; and finally, Cameron Hansen and “Hupp” Huppmann, who are both members of FOAR from Home.

Veterans Council of Nassau County In Service to Veterans of All Eras and Their Families

The Veterans4VeteransNassau gathering, sponsored by the Veterans Council of Nassau County, has been dubbed a resounding success. Veterans from all over Nassau County gathered at West Nassau High School to network, listen to guest speakers, and to visit the booths staffed by representatives of veteran and veteran service organizations based in the county. The keynote speaker was FOAR from Home, a team of veterans who rowed across the Atlantic Ocean to raise awareness of veteran suicide and the programs offered to prevent it. Coffee to fuel the day was provided by Southern Donut Company.

Firewatch, a veteran suicide prevention program, sponsored lunch catered by Callahan Barbecue.

Veterans Council of Nassau County:76347 Veterans Way, Veterans Service Office Yulee, Florida 32097 904.548.4670.

Barnabas Center dropped off these yummy cookies in celebration of St. Barnabas Day and to thank NCSO for our continued partnership over the years!

June 16, 2022

The Yulee News

Page 15

Buzz around Town Upcoming Events Sunrise Yoga at the Williams House - Sat, Jun 18, 11:30 AM. Amelia Island Williams House. 103 S 9th St, Fernandina Beach, FL. Sunrise Yoga at at Amelia Island Williams House with tickets starting at $35.00.

Radium Girls - Saturday, Jun 18, 2022 at 7:30 p.m. Amelia Community Theatre.

207 Cedar Street, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034. Tickets are $25. Based on a true story, Grace works for the U.S. Radium Corporation, painting dials on watches.

She is taught to twist the glowing paintbrushes with her mouth to get the perfect lines on each watch. Graces’ coworkers fall ill and die from mysterious causes; always explained or hidden away by U.S. Radium Corporation. Did the women know each drop of paint was killing them? Grace fights against everyone for her day in the courtroom and all their rights.

Amelia Cruizers 3rd Saturday Cruise In - Sat, Jun 18, 3 – 6 PM. Cold Stone Creamery Amelia Island. 808 Sadler Rd, Fernandina Beach, FL. Nassau County Young Republicans - Tuesday, June 21, 2022 at 7pm. Gator’s Dockside Yulee. Join us for our June Meeting! Guest Speaker Sheriff Bill Leeper visiting.

The Wonders of the Okefenokee Swamp Wed, Jun 22, 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM. Nassau County Public Library Fernandina Beach Branch. 25 N 4th St, Fernandina Beach, FL. Come here about the exciting adventures on the Okefenokee Swamp and the importance of ecosystem as told by expert guides Kim Bednarek and Michael Lusk.

Riverkeeper Meet and Greet - Thu, Jun 23, 7 PM. Mocama Beer Company. 629 S 8th St, Fernandina Beach, FL. Are you interested in learning more about St. Marys Riverkeeper? Join us for a Happy Hour Mingle at Mocama Beer Company in Fernandina Beach!

Fresh Conversations - Thu, Jun 23, 9 – 10 AM. Nassau County Council On Aging.

1901 Island Walkway, Fernandina Beach, FL. Join us to learn more about the Foar from Home Team and what they’re doing to end veteran suicide.

Planning Meeting - Fri, Jun 24, 11 AM – 2 PM. Amelia Island Tea House. 122 S 8th St, Fernandina Beach, FL. Join us at this planning meeting for a new Fernandina Beach Branch Library book club. This book club will focus on current, popular novels. Help us! Let’s discuss and decide on things like location, date/time, selections, name of the club, etc!! Drink and food available for purchase. For more details, call 904-530-6500.

2022 Supporting Cross the Line Foundation - Fri, Jun 24, 9 AM – Sun, Jun 26, 1 PM. Fernandina Beach, FL. We will again be traveling to Fernandina Beach Florida to help and support the Cross the Line Foundation. The paddle will take place on Saturday June 25th from St. Mary’s, GA to historic downtown.

Grand Opening! Saturday, June 25, 2022 at 8am-1pm, 850895 US Highway 17, Yulee, FL. Selina’s FriendSip Cafe is brand new café in Yulee!! We offer Coffee, Baked Goods, Milkshakes!!

Shrubs & Trees Workshop - Saturday , June 25, 2022 at 9am-12pm. 85831 Miner Rd, Yulee, FL. Shrubs and trees are major components of our landscapes. Properly selected shrubs and trees can significantly reduce the amount of work and maintenance for a landscape. Program registration is $25.00 and will cover the program’s materials and costs. Minor refreshments will be provided. For more information contact Dr. Taylor Clem, UF/IFAS Extension Nassau County, Horticulture Agent, at 904-5306351. Registration: https://bit.ly/ShrubsTrees_2022.

Auditions - Neil Simon’s Last of the Red Hot Lovers. Saturday, June 25, 2022 at 3pm.

Yulee Lions Club 851023 Highway 17, Yulee, Blue Fire Theatre presents this classic Neil Simon comedy, Barney Cashman is happily married, the father of three children, and a successful businessman, when he realizes that the sexual revolution is passing him by. If you are intrested in auditions please fill out the audition form on our wesite at https://www.bluefiretheatre.org/auditions-1 Casual Knitting - Thu, Jun 30, 1 – 3 PM. Nassau County Council On Aging. 1901 Island Walkway, Fernandina Beach, FL. Beginners Welcome 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm.

Vocal Coaching with Jenn- Thursday, July 21, 2022 at 4:30-5pm. Blue Fire Theatre. Jennifer will be offering vocal coaching on a first come first serve basis with a limited time frame so that we may gage interest in our community. If you or someone you know has expressed an interest in finding a good vocal coach, please reach out to us at - info@bluefiretheatre.org.

Nassau County Young Republicans Tuesday, June 21, 2022 at 7pm. Gator’s Dockside Yulee. Join us for our June Meeting! Guest Speaker Sheriff Bill Leeper visiting.

To Submit your free listing please email theyuleenews@gmail.com attention Events.

Dozens of people showed up at the Janice Ancrum Senior Life Center this past Friday for “The Great Giveaway 2.0” to claim hundreds of free, donated items that were up for grabs, including assistive aids, mobility aids, adult absorptive products, face masks and more. Stay tuned for future giveaway opportunities -- or call us to see if we have what you’re looking for in our inventory of donated items.

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It has no other character than that which we give it from generation to generation the choices are ours. Woodrow Wilson, President.

Sunday June 19th we celebrate Father’s Day and thank those fathers who gave their life to make us free. We honor those fathers who work to take care of their family.

Come by the coffee is on!

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