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SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2018 | YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER SINCE 1874 | $2 Lake City Reporter LAKECITYREPORTER.COM
SUNDAY + PLUS >> Crash Olustee: Trouble victim The 40th with the clings truth at annual City Hall to life festival New nursing care center coming, 1C Opinion/4A BELOW PAGES 6-7A SCHOOL VIOLENCE FAA The struggle to to city: What keep kids safe trees? Feds never ordered removal District focused on of pines at airport, despite mental health issues; apparent claims to contrary. asks help from clergy. By CARL MCKINNEY By CARL MCKINNEY [email protected] [email protected] As the nation grieves in City officials twisted the facts the aftermath of another when they met privately with Florida deadly mass shooting, Gateway College representatives in Columbia County school January and said the Federal Aviation officials want to partner Administration was with local requiring the removal of churches What 133 acres of trees at Lake to give do you City Gateway Airport, said emotionally think? FGC President Lawrence troubled Barrett. students n Let us another know in a City Manager Wendell avenue to Letter to Johnson, Airport the Editor. Manager Roland Luster Widergren seek help See 4A. in the fight and assistant City against what they see as Manager Grayson Cason the national mental health stated “emphatically” during the meet- crisis behind the violence. ing that the FAA told the city to cut Clergy could work with down the trees, Barrett said. the school district to pro- vide counseling services to FILE CITY continued on 2A students as a supplement to school counselors, said TOP: Deputies responded to a Assistant Superintendent report of a gun on campus at Todd Widergren. CHS in 2014. Deputy Murray “The kids want to talk Smith spoke to parents to CHS senior to somebody,” Widergren reassure them after the said. incident, which turned out to A partnership with be a false alarm. LEFT: Westside Lewis up for churches and other com- Elementary School Principal munity organizations can Dennis Dotson poses in front of be a powerful tool, he big honor added. the school’s new fence, which “It’s a perfect fit,” was installed over Christmas Named one of 25 finalists for Widergren said. break. The fence funnels visitors into the main office, helping national U.S. Army/NFL award. SAFETY continued on 2A CARL MCKINNEY/Lake City Reporter keep track of them. By TONY BRITT [email protected]
Columbia High School senior Sarah Crash victim fighting Katherine “SK” Lewis has been select- ed as a finalist for the for life at UF Shands U.S. Army Pro Football Hall of Fame Award By TONY BRITT for Excellence. [email protected] Lewis is one of 25 finalists in the national A 28-year old woman is fighting for her life today competition. after she was struck by a pickup truck while cross- “I’m still in shock,” Lewis ing U.S. Highway 90 Thursday night. she said Friday eve- The crash occurred at the intersection of U.S. 90 ning. “I’m so honored to be even nomi- and Brookside Drive, directly in front of McDonald’s. TONY BRITT/Lake City Reporter nated for the scholarship by Mr. [Trey] A pedestrian is in critical condition after being struck by a pickup CRASH continued on 3A while crossing U.S. Highway 90 on Thursday, LCPD said. LEWIS continued on 2A
Vol. 143, No. 226 Opinion ...... 4A CALL US: TODAY’S WEATHER (386) 752-1293 Obituaries ...... 5A Puzzles ...... 2-3B CHS RETIREES SUBSCRIBE TO THE REPORTER: 81 58 Business ...... 1C Annual reunion, 3A Voice: 755-5445 Life ...... 1D Fax: 752-9400 Clearing late, 2A Lake City’s Only Family Owned and Operated New Car Dealership 386-752-2180 www.RONSONET.com HWY 90 • 3 BLOCKS EAST OF DOWNTOWN LAKE CITY A3
2A SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2018 DAILY BRIEFING LAKE CITY REPORTER
Each high school is assigned a School officials are proactive, rather SAFETY school resource deputy, who can also than reactive, when it comes to stu- QUICK HITS Continued From 1A respond to elementary schools as dents’ safety, Widergren said. needed. The district also hires its own “They’ve done everything they On Wednesday, a gunman opened security guards. could do,” he said. Scripture of the Day fire at Marjory Stoneman Douglas All schools in the district now have Superintendent Lex Carswell High School in Parkland, killing 17 one main point of entrance that fun- echoed that sentiment. "The LORD shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall people. nels visitors through an administrative “Safety is the absolute most import- preserve thy soul." Widergren partly blamed mental office. ant thing that we do in education,” — Psalms 121:7 (KJV) health issues and the desensitizing For instance, Westside Elementary Carswell said. “The Columbia County effect of violent media. School has three entrances, but two School Board will always take every One way to keep students safe, said are kept shut except in the mornings measure possible that we can, in con- the school district’s safety coordinator, and afternoons, said Principal Dennis junction with the Sheriff’s Office, to Thought for Today Judy Tatem, is for teachers and admin- Dotson. keep our students safe.” istrators to build relationships with The district receives money from On Thursday morning, principals Stop thinking too much. It’s alright not to know the them. the Florida Legislature for safety at every school in the district made a answers. They will come when you least expect it. “Know your students, know their expenditures. This year, the money similar announcement over the inter- — Seven Rules of Life story,” Tatem said. “That’s what we’re amounted to $285,000, which is insuffi- com. trying to focus on more than any- cient, Widergren said. They reassured students that the thing.” Almost all of that funding goes district was taking safety seriously, School officials haven’t received toward paying school resource depu- and encouraged anyone who needed Winning Lottery Numbers many calls from parents concerned ties. But the schools need more men- help to seek it, Tatem said. Pick 3: (Saturday midday) 7-6-5 about school safety, Widergren said. tal health services, security cameras Tatem, who is also a classroom Pick 4: (Saturday midday) 7-8-1-6 The district has protocols in place to and structural fortifications. teacher, said none of her students Pick 5: (Saturday midday) 4-6-9-9-7 prevent and respond to school shoot- “There’s numerous ways that have come forward to say they were ings, he said, but declined to describe money would help us,” Widergren afraid to be at school following the them in detail for security reasons. said. Parkland shooting. See an error? The Lake City Reporter corrects errors of fact in news al security fencing we are Office, advised the city to maintain a positive working items. If you have a concern, question, or suggestion, CITY hoping to better control the have a certified wildlife biolo- relationship, according to please call the editor. Corrections and clari cations will Continued From 1A wildlife around the airport,” gist conduct a wildlife hazard Barrett. run in this space. Thanks for reading. Luster wrote. assessment before moving FGC has an attorney on “It was stated at the meet- The city has already forward, according to a Jan. contract. The college would ing that they had no choice,” received a bid from a forest- 31 email she sent to Luster. prefer not to have to take Submissions The Lake City Reporter accepts photographs and caption Barrett said. er, Luster wrote. “As Richard stated, our legal action, Barrett said. information to run at the discretion of the editor. If you would But emails acquired by the The city will install the intent is not to stop your “But we need to protect like to see your organization in the newspaper, send the picture Lake City Reporter through new security fencing once project, but ensure we fol- the college’s property and and information to associate editor Justin Caudell at a public records request to the trees are removed, for low the letter of the law to assets,” Barrett said. [email protected]. City Hall indicate FAA offi- fear of it being damaged by accomplish your desired The city has failed to prove cials knew nothing about the loggers. project,” Henry wrote. “We that deer are endangering plan at that point and later The third reason for will need to coordinate with aircraft, Barrett said. Lake City Reporter advised the city to consult removing the trees, Luster other federal, state, and The last reported case of HOW TO REACH US BUSINESS...... 754-0419 with environmental special- wrote, is to provide a line local Agencies to ensure we a deer striking an aircraft Main number ...... (386) 752-1293 CIRCULATION ists before moving forward. of sight for traffic traveling address any concerns they occurred four years ago, he Fax number ...... 752-9400 Circulation ...... 755-5445 Home delivery of the Lake City Reporter “I think they misrepre- from a nearby water plant have within their areas of said. Online ... www.lakecityreporter.com should be completed by 6:30 a.m. sented it,” Barrett said of onto Southeast Timber Wolf expertise.” “There has to be another The Lake City Reporter, an affiliate Tuesday through Friday, and by 7:30 city officials. Drive. “We are uncertain if there reason other than the deer,” of Community Newspapers Inc., is a.m. on Sunday. During a Jan. 25 Airport Luster outlined FGC’s [are] wetland areas, or if Barrett said. published Tuesday through Friday and Please call 386-755-5445 to report any Sunday at 180 E. Duval St., Lake City, problems with your delivery service. Advisory Committee meet- opposition to the plan, add- these areas act as habitat FGC’s concerns about FL 32055. Periodical postage paid at Lake City, FL, Member Audit Bureau of In Columbia County, customers should ing, Luster said cutting down ing that city officials told to protected an endangered flooding have a historical Circulation and The Associated Press. call before 10:30 a.m. to report a service error for same day re-delivery. the trees is “crucial” because Barrett they felt flight and species,” she wrote. “Further basis. The college had sig- All material herein is property of the they provide a habitat to driver safety “were more study, potentially including nificant flooding during Lake City Reporter. Reproduction in After 10:30 a.m., next day re-delivery whole or in part is forbidden without the or service related credits will be issued. hazardous wildlife such as important than the reasons wetland delineation mapping Hurricane Irma last fall. permission of the publisher. U.S. Postal In all other counties where home delivery deer. He backed up the city’s he gave,” according to the and biological assessments, Barrett said he encourag- Service No. 310-880. is available, next day re-delivery or stance with a page from a email. may be required to estab- es the city to work with the POSTMASTER: Send address changes service related credits will be issued. to Lake City Reporter, P.O. Box 1709, 2007 advisory document The email made no men- lish what the status of these college to find another way Lake City, FL 32056. Circulation ...... 755-5445 ([email protected]) from the FAA. tion of whether the city was areas is.” to address its concerns. Publisher Todd Wilson .....754-0418 FGC opposes the plan, required to remove the trees Environmental surveys “We still continue to want ([email protected]) Home delivery rates saying removing the trees under FAA rules. don’t come cheap, Barrett to work with them on their (Tuesday–Friday and Sunday) NEWS 12 Weeks...... $26.32 will worsen flooding issues FAA Program Manager said. issues and we think we can Editor Robert Bridges .....754-0428 24 Weeks...... $48.79 on campus. Richard Owen asked if the “It’s going to be costly for provide them with solu- ([email protected]) 52 Weeks...... $83.46 Rates include 7% sales tax. “We’re not sure the effect city took “NEPA action” the city,” he said. tions,” he said. ADVERTISING ...... 752-1293 all of this is going to have on before removing the trees, According to maps from Johnson and Luster did ([email protected]) Mail rates 12 Weeks...... $41.40 campus,” said FGC spokes- referencing the National Suwannee River Water not return calls seeking com- CLASSIFIED 24 Weeks...... $82.80 man Mike McKee. “This Environmental Policy Act, Management District, there ment. To place a classified ad...... 755-5440 52 Weeks...... $179.40 could really adversely affect which requires federal agen- are wetlands in and around this college.” cies to assess the environ- the airport area. Luster described the city’s mental effects of their pro- In a Feb. 1 email to staff, plan in a Jan. 31 email to FAA posed actions prior to mak- City Manager Johnson wrote THE WEATHER officials, laying out the ratio- ing decisions. that the FAA said the pro- SUN MON TUE WED THU nale for removing the trees. Luster responded that cess to remove the trees can 18 19 20 21 22 The first reason, Luster there had not been any be fast-tracked, but it would Patchy Partly Chance Partly Partly wrote, is to “protect the action under NEPA and the likely be several months fog in cloudy of rain cloudy cloudy the showers Light approach” to Runway 28. trees had not yet been cut before the agency made a morning wind The second reason, he down. decision. wrote, is to “delete wildlife Owen also asked if the city During a private Feb. 1 HI 81HI LO LO 58 HI 81 HI LO LO 59 HI 83HI LO LO 63 HI HI83 LO LO 61 HI 81HI LO LO 58 habitat areas on the airport.” cited an “aeronautical need” meeting between FGC rep- “Currently we are having for removing the trees. resentatives and city offi- a problem with deer on the Rebecca R. Henry, assis- cials, Johnson said the plan is REGIONAL FORECAST MAP for Sunday, Feb. 18 Sunday's highs/Sunday night's low airport. By removing the tant manager at the FAA moving forward, but encour- Valdosta trees and adding addition- Orlando Airports District aged the college and city to City Monday Tuesday 76/58 Jacksonville 79/58 Cape Canaveral Tallahassee Lake City 83/69/fg 82/71/pc 77/58 81/58 Daytona Beach 82/65/fg 81/68/pc High School and present a finalist award, Gainesville Daytona Beach Fort Myers 84/68/pc 86/69/pc Pensacola 81/59 79/61 Ft. Lauderdale 81/74/sh 82/75/pc LEWIS plaque and a gold jacket during an award 74/63 Panama City 70/61 Ocala Gainesville 83/61/pc 83/65/sh Continued From 1A ceremony for Lewis. 83/59 Jacksonville 80/61/pc 81/64/pc The scholarship program allowed Lewis Orlando Cape Canaveral Key West 81/74/pc 82/74/pc 83/63 79/65 Lake City 83/61/pc 83/65/sh Hosford. I really can’t believe it. I’m just to request which member of the Pro Football really excited and happy.” Hall of Fame she wanted to visit the school Tampa Miami 82/73/sh 82/73/pc 83/63 Naples 85/69/pc 86/69/pc Lewis plays shortstop for the Lady Tigers and present the prizes during a ceremony. West Palm Beach 81/70 Ocala 84/62/pc 84/65/sh softball team and center defender for the She picked Emmitt Smith, a retired Dallas Orlando 85/66/fg 84/69/pc Lady Tigers soccer team. She has competed Cowboys, Arizona Cardinals and University Ft. Lauderdale Panama City 74/62/pc 76/65/pc Ft. Myers 81/70 Pensacola 83/65 75/64/pc 77/67/pc on both teams since she was a freshman. of Florida running back. Naples Tallahassee 78/60/pc 81/63/pc She has a 4.0 grade point average and is “They said you could request it but it’s 83/67 Miami Tampa 84°/68/pc 85°/69/pc 81/70 under consideration for valedictorian. no guarantee he would be able to come,” Key West Valdosta 82/61/pc 81/64/pc Hosford, Columbia High School’s princi- she said. “Oh my gosh, I don’t know what 81/72 W. Palm Beach 81/73/sh 82/73/pc pal, nominated Lewis for the award earlier I would do if he showed up at Columbia to in the school year. present the award. Even just to have a pro LAKE CITY ALMANAC UV INDEX FYI " Test Scholarship criteria are based on a stu- football player there would be crazy to me, An exclusive TEMPERATURES SUN dent’s excellence in academics, athletics but to have Emmitt Smith. I can’t wait.” service and community service. The program is in Lewis said she’s enjoying the experience. High Saturday 81 Sunrise today 7:06 a.m. Low Saturday 62 Sunset today 6:22 p.m. 5 brought to its sixth year. “Just the fact that I was even considered Normal high 70 Sunrise tom. 7:05 a.m. ModerateEXTREME: our readers The 2018 Award for Excellence winner just means the world to me,” she said. “I 10 minutes to burn Normal low 46 Sunset tom. 6:23 p.m. 30 mins to burn by will be announced Aug. 4. The winner will know how excited Mr. Hosford was and Record high 85 in 1928 Today’s receive a $2,500 scholarship grant from the how much it means to my mom as well. Just Record low 23 in 2007 MOON ultra-violet The Weather radiation risk Moonrise today 8:54 a.m. Pro Football Hall of Fame. receiving the phone call, it was such a cool for the area on Channel. PRECIPITATION Moonset today 9:07 p.m. “I am excited about SK being named moment that I’ll remember forever. It just a scale from 0 Saturday 0.00" Moonrise tom. 9:30 a.m. to 10+. as a finalist,” Hosford said. “She is very made my day.” Month total 0.22" Moonset tom. 10:04 p.m. deserving of this recognition. She displays The award ceremony at CHS is scheduled Year total 1.67" excellence in her academics, athletics and to take place within a few weeks, though the Normal month-to-date 1.89" Normal year-to-date 5.20" community service. This is a great honor date hasn’t been set. Feb 23 March 1 March 9 March 17 Forecasts, data and graphics ©2018, The Weather Company, LLC for her, CHS and our community.” “It’s crazy,” she said. “I’ve been waiting First Full Last New Quarter Quarter
The 25 finalists get to go to the Pro on this call for weeks and I got it today Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio, [Friday] and I was jumping up and down where they will be recognized during the like I couldn’t believe it.” WEATHER BY-THE-DAY WEATHER HISTORY SPONSORED BY enshrinement ceremony. The finalists will Lewis, 18, was grateful to Hosford for 100 7a 1p 7p 1a 6a Today in 1997, a massive Andean also be recognized while attending the Pro selecting her from the entire student body. 0 mudslide buried two Football Hall of Fame game, the NFL’s pre- “It’s such an honor,” she said. “Just the 83 81 81 81 81 Peruvian villages, killing season opener. fact that he nominated me means the world 80 78 300 people. The 70 inhabitants of Ccocha “I’ve never been there, so it’s going to be to me and then to be a top 25 finalist. I’m just 70 and Pumaranra were 62 63 62 62 62 actually evacuated from 60 a really cool experience,” Lewis said. as excited for him to be able to represent 54 55 the villages prior to the mudslide, but their Lewis will also be able to share her good Lake City. It’s such an honor that he choose 50 refuge higher up the 40 mountain put them in fortune with her school and classmates as me out of the school to be nominated. I am the path of the slide. one of the 25 finalists. just so thankful to have such a passionate 30
The scholarship program calls for a pro- principal who goes above and beyond for fessional football player to visit Columbia his students.” SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2018 LOCAL LAKE CITY REPORTER 3A
COURTESY Columbia High School retirees gather for annual reunion The annual Columbia High School Retirees Reunion was held Feb. 13 at Parkview Baptist Church. There were 83 participants, including 65 retirees from staff, faculty and administration, and 18 spouses. The event, organized by Sharon Kirby and Deborah Wright, was a Mardi Gras theme and was catered by Sonny’s Barbecue. Attendees enjoyed their time together with conversation, door prizes and photos. A memory wall honored those who have passed on. Front (on floor), from left: Nancy Hunter, Betty Proveaux, Pam Green, Maurice Geiger, Douglas Henning and Vicki Ellis. Second row: Sharon Kirby, Wanda Gause, Patty Goodson, Tom Grubb, Diane Perry, Richard Bryant, Clara Roberts, Patsy Dicks, Linda Brooks and Carol Martin. Third row: Danny Owens, Sandra Bishop, Sally Moses, Bobby Simmons, Flossie McGuire, Henry Williams, Clem Choice, Linda Taylor, Peggy Hamilton and Tonita Orr. Fourth row: Pat Matthews, Cheryl Bender, Myrtle Principata, Carol Terry, Patsy Harris, Jean Kunneman, Pat Rooks and Linda Oliver. Fifth row: David Ellis, Peggy Romine, Betty Lane, Debbie Spencer, Priscilla Pace, Dottie Knight, Charleen Kelley, Dawn Cox, Pace Getzen, Beverly Phillips and Jo Hentzleman. Sixth row: Marcie Vining, Marilyn Smithy, Mary Barker Harmon, Frankie Harkleroad, Silas Pittman, Sarah Pittman, Alan Cox, Ken Starke, Wendall Feagle, Danny Green, Mo Bechnel and Steve Hentzleman. Seventh row: Debra Wright, Kay Dekle, Charleen Ring, Richard Romine, Willard Kelley, Barbara Foreman and Roger Lizotte. Not pictured: Roscoe Mansfield. CRASH Continued From 1A
Authorities have not released the identities of the pedestrian or motorist involved in the crash. Lake City Police Department Public Information Officer Mike Lee said the call regarding the crash was received by police department dispatchers at 8:04 p.m. Thursday. “What we know at this point is there was a 28-year-old female who was crossing the street — she was in the crosswalk — and a copper-colored 2006 Ford pickup truck was driving eastbound and struck her,” Lee said. He said the specifics of the crash, such as who had what color light on the traffic signal at the time of the accident, is still under investigation. “We don’t really have any kind of information yet about who is at fault. We’re still investigating it,” Lee said. The victim was taken to UF Health Shands, where she remains in critical condition, Lee said. ARE YOU HEART HEALTHY? GIVE US A CALL TO LEARN IF YOU QUALIFY TO TAKE PART IN OUR HEART HEALTH STUDY AND GET PAID $100 FOR BEING A PART OF IT. - MUST LIVE WITHIN 100 MILE RADIUS OF Lake City, Florida - MUST BE 65+ YEARS OLD - 1.5 hours between February 22th and March 8th - Location: Lake City Country Club ExcellenceCome to our locationin for 1.5 Hours RehabilitationExcellenceExcellence in Rehabilitation in Rehabilitation and take part in the study! Brooks Rehabilitation HomeNote Health that a qualifi ed nurse provides will be compassionate,BrooksBrooks Rehabilitation Rehabilitation Home high-quality Health provides compassionate, Home care Healthhigh-quality in care provides in compassionate, high-quality care in your own home. As one of thein attendance only for additional Centers support. for Medicareyouryour own home. own and As one home. of Medicaid the only CentersAs one for Medicare Services of andthe Medicaid only Services Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services 5 Star rated agencies inCALL this US AT 1-866-259-2931 area, TOwe SEE IF take YOU QUALIFY great pride5 Star5 Star rated in agenciesserving rated in this agencies area, our we take community.great in pride this in serving area, our community. we take great pride in serving our community. AND BOOK AN APPOINTMENT AND EARN $100
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LICENSE # 299993785 LICENSE # 299993785 LICENSE # 299993785 OPINION Sunday, February 18, 2018 www.lakecityreporter.com 4A
OUR OPINION Trouble with the truth at City Hall
nce again — it happens here from time to time — City Hall has run afoul of the truth and made a Oclaim with no apparent basis in fact. This time the issue is trees, and the city’s near obses- sion with harvesting 133 acres of them at Lake City Gateway Airport. City officials, led by City Manager Wendell Johnson, told the folks at Florida Gateway College during a pri- vate meeting in January that they had no choice but to clear the trees. The FAA, said Johnson and compa- ny, insisted. That is the account from FGC President Lawrence Barrett, who was there. Problem is, the FAA had no idea what Johnson was talking about. Emails between the federal agency and city officials some weeks later show the feds had not been informed of the city’s plan to harvest the trees at the time of the meeting with FGC. And when FAA officials did learn of the plan, they sug- gested the city proceed with caution and first perform a series of studies to avoid unforeseen consequences. By no means did any FAA official, in correspondence we saw, ever say the trees must come down. The city’s stated concern is deer on the runway, Medical community fuels growth along with a couple of other claims that have since been debunked (FDOT issues that didn’t exist as well as a ommunity members who had OLUSTEE SUCCESSFUL AGAIN supposed concern over terrorism every bit as bizarre as the privilege of attending Lake it sounds). And don’t forget the gaping 8 by 25 foot hole CCity Medical Center’s open Few festivals anywhere have the in the airport fence that was only fixed after this newspa- house “Meet the Heart” event on longevity to hold the public’s atten- per twice published surveillance photos of a good-sized Thursday afternoon saw one very tion for a couple decades, much less buck ambling right through. impressive example of how Lake 40 years, but the Blue Grey Army FGC is worried about flooding, already a problem at City’s medical community is grow- has managed to create an event the the college, and sure to get worse with all those trees ing and progressing right along with public continues to support. gone. the rest of our business community. Once again the annual Olustee As for the deer, there are plenty of ways to get rid of In recognition of February being Festival did an outstanding job of them without losing the trees, says the college, which national Heart Health Month, Todd Wilson helping educate the public about the has researched the topic. LCMC showcased its relatively new [email protected] intricacies of society — the good A solution to this problem likely exists, but we’ll never cardiac cath lab and all the top-of- and bad — that was present in the get there if the city won’t play it straight. the-line equipment that is on site but as volunteers. That sounded like 1860s not just in Columbia County, Telling the truth would be a good way to start. here and available for local patients a good plan. The hope would be that but America. This is a delicate in need. no one would ever need the use of undertaking, but our local historians For the medical scientific commu- this medical service, but if any of us do an excellent and sensitive job of nity, these offerings were described do, I’m glad to know it’s here for us. portraying the time in context. in writing as a “percutaneous coro- Before I go any further, I want to Besides preserving our local, nary intervention program,” or so reaffirm that we are blessed with battle history, it is impressive the Chitlin’ Circuit I’m told. As most of us attending the two quality hospitals in Lake City lengths the Blue Grey Army takes Chamber of Commerce-promoted and both serve our community with to offer a glimpse of history from in Lake City event entered the main lobby and strength, dignity and a passion for other timely events of the period turned left down the long hallway, healing the sick. Look around and that didn’t necessarily happen in and ith Olustee weekend winding down, it’s a good we were greeted warmly and urged think how many communities near- around Lake City. time to remember another important chapter in to nibble on catered snacks and by would beg to trade places with In the recent past, we’ve seen liv- W local history, one not everyone associates with beverages while making our way us in a second. We are certainly ing historians portraying Abraham Lake City: The Chitlin’ Circuit. toward the stellar demonstration fortunate. But on Thursday, it was Lincoln, Jefferson Davis, Robert E. As we wrote about in a front page story just a couple tour of the new cath lab. Lake City Medical Center’s day to Lee and others walking around down- of weeks back, the Chitlin’ Circuit was made up of dance LCMC offers our community’s shine. town, speaking at civic clubs all week halls, churches and anyplace else that was available for first and only chest pain accredited and visiting select school classrooms use by black musicians, comedians and others in the Jim facility and it is the only cardiac BLANCHE WORK UNDERWAY for question and answer sessions. Crow South. catheter lab in town. The hospital Once again this year, the Blue Not too many current residents knew about it until now has a nuclear medicine depart- The ceremonial hammers were Grey Army did not disappoint by recently, but the Chitlin’ Circuit ran right through Lake ment providing high resolution traded in for real brick-breakers this again bringing a living historian City, it turns out. heart and bone scans. Nearly any past week as the actual work began portraying abolitionist Frederick The exact location of the site, known as the Blue Chip procedure short of open-heart sur- on the Blanche renovation. Douglass to our city for many con- Casino, is lost to history, which is a shame, since it was gery can now be performed in Lake The first loads of demolished vincing stump speeches during the in operation up until the 1960s. City by the skilled hands of expert materials were knocked out and week. Still, it’s a fascinating part of our past. Who would surgeons who visit from North removed from the facility early in The battle re-enactment, which have thought a parade of superstars like Little Richard, Florida Regional Medical Center in the week before the downtown area starts today at 1:30 p.m. at the bat- B.B. King, Etta James and Ike and Tina Turner were Gainesville, LCMC’s larger sister began to prepare for the annual tlefield, caps this year’s spectacle. staging shows right here in Lake City? facility. Olustee Festival. The work began Congratulations to all the Blue There is surely lots more about our town that is yet to The staff was just as impressive on the interior of the building. Grey volunteers and everyone who be discovered. If you know some of these secrets, please as the equipment. Friendly, knowl- Construction executives said it gives so selflessly to put our commu- pass them along. edgeable and confident in their would only take about 15 months nity first and make the Olustee festi- They are stories we’d be glad to tell. ability to utilize the best equipment for the building to be refurbished val the first class event it always is. available for the good of the patient. and move-in ready in most of the At the end of the tour, the cardiac areas. The effort is off and run- n Todd Wilson is publisher of the Lake City Reporter staff urged us to come back often — ning. Lake City Reporter. Lake City Reporter Serving Columbia County Since 1874 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR TheServing Lake City Columbia Reporter Countyis published Since with 1874 pride for residents of Columbia and surrounding coun‑ tiesThe by Lake Community City Reporter Newspapers is published Inc. with pride Econ summit an important milestone forWe residents believe of strong Columbia newspapers and surrounding build strong coun ‑ tiescommunities by Community —‑“Newspapers Newspapers get Inc. things done!” To the Editor: may include information technolo- just a new business opening, it’s an WeOur believe primary strong goal isnewspapers to publish distinguishedbuild strong and gy, life sciences and even company interconnected web of private and communitiesprofitable community —‑“Newspapers‑ oriented get newspapers. things done!” In December and January I wrote administration. As the county puts public entities moving towards a OurThis primary mission goal will isbe to accomplished publish distinguished through theand to you about economic develop- its best foot forward, we must main- better place to live, work, and play. profitableteamwork community of professionals‑ oriented dedicated newspapers. to truth, ment and the future of Columbia tain the balance of development and Imagine other developing areas integrityThis mission and hard will bework. accomplished through the County. Now, there is talk of an long term viability. in Florida and elsewhere will one teamwork of professionals dedicated to truth, economic development summit led It is also imperative that inter- day point to Columbia County and integrity and hard work. by County Commission Chairman governmental relations stay in say “look at what they did. Let’s do Todd Wilson, Publisher Tim Murphy (Lake City Reporter, step. The county, the city of Lake that.” Robert Bridges, Editor Page 4A, 2/14/18). This summit is City, state, federal, and community We should all look forward to JimTodd Barr, Wilson, Associate Publisher Editor to be commended. The news of the stakeholders all should coordinate this economic summit that will SueRobert Brannon, Bridges, Controller Editor rail spur being funded is also a good in the same direction. Coordination occur later in the spring. The world step forward. The conversation of between stakeholders will lead to is rapidly moving. Columbia County DinkDink NeSmith,NeSmith, PresidentPresident economic development is occurring, better economic development and can still maintain its Southern Tom Wood, Chairman but should not be taken lightly. civic efficacy. Wage growth will charm and traditions, while being Tom Wood, Chairman With the rail spur, we need to increase, tax base will increase, as able to be an important component make sure that the mega industrial will a sense of accomplishment for in the ever evolving 21st century site is developed. The main indus- Columbia County. economy. tries at the site include manufactur- We should look at early childhood LETTERS POLICY ing and logistics. Other industries education as well as apprentice- Staz Guntek II that could look at Columbia County ships. Economic development is not Lake City Letters to the Editor should be typed or neatly written and double spaced. Letters should not exceed 400 words and will be edited for length and libel. Letters TODAY IN HISTORY must be signed and include the writer’s name, address and telephone number for verification. Writers can On this date: Tombaugh at Lowell Observatory in Democratic national convention; five have two letters per month published. Letters and Flagstaff, Arizona. were convicted of violating the Anti- guest columns are the opinion of the writers and not In 1861, Jefferson Davis was In 1960, the 8th Winter Olympic Riot Act of 1968 (those convictions necessarily that of the Lake City Reporter. sworn in as provisional president of Games were formally opened in were later reversed). the Confederate States of America in Squaw Valley, California, by Vice In 2001, auto racing star Dale BY MAIL: Letters, P.O. Box 1709, Lake City, FL Montgomery, Alabama. President Richard M. Nixon. Earnhardt Sr. died in a crash at the 32056; or drop off at 180 E. Duval St. downtown. In 1930, photographic evidence In 1970, the “Chicago Seven” Daytona 500; he was 49. BY FAX: (386) 752‑9400. of Pluto (now designated a “dwarf defendants were found not guilty of BY EMAIL: [email protected] planet”) was discovered by Clyde W. conspiring to incite riots at the 1968 n Associated Press SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2018 LOCAL LAKE CITY REPORTER 5A
n To submit your Community Calendar item, stop by the Reporter oce or email Justin COMMUNITY CALENDAR Caudell at [email protected]. Monday Open seating tickets ($20/adult and $5/ student K-12) is available at the door one Free tax prep hour before show time, at the Lake City- The Columbia County UF/IFAS Columbia County Chamber of Commerce Extension Office is accepting appoint- or at www.communityconcerts.info. For ments for free tax filing. Appointments are more information, call 386 466-2013. available on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. For more information, call 386- MOAA meeting 752-5384 or stop by the extension office at The Suwannee River Valley Chapter 971 W. Duval St., Lake City. of The Military Officers Association of America will hold its monthly meeting at ‘State of the Community’ the Lake City Elks Club, 309 Hernando St., The Melting Pot, a nonprofit perform- Lake City. Social hour begins at 6:30 p.m. ing arts gallery located at 500 N. Marion and is followed by the program at 7. The Ave. in Lake City, will host a ‘State of the program will be a presentation by Duffy Community’ summit from 4 to 6 p.m. as part Soto, a renowned aviation artist from the of its “American History — Celebrating area. The meeting is open to all active duty, African Influence” series. For more infor- retired and former U.S. Armed Service mation, call 386-867-1601. commissioned officers and their spouses.
Radio society meeting COURTESY FGC Saturday The Columbia Amateur Radio Society (CARS) will hold its regular meeting at Crawford joins FGC Board of Trustees Dog celebration 7 p.m. at American Legion Post 57, 2602 David Crawford (center) is welcomed as the newest member of the Florida Gateway “Wuffstock,” a celebration of dogs, will SW Main Blvd., Lake City. The ham radio College Board of Trustees by board chairwoman Suzanne Norris and FGC President be held from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Darby club meets the third Monday of each Dr. Lawrence Barrett at the board’s monthly meeting Feb. 13. Pavilion in downtown Lake City. There will month with programs designed to advance be contests and events for all sizes and the training of radio operators in the areas Dancers, will start this year’s lessons from Jeanne Van Arsdall will be the instructor. breeds of friendly dogs. For more infor- of emergency operations, general commu- 7 to 8:30 p.m. The first four lessons are Alcohol ink painting has become a popular mation, visit www.CovenantPetTrust.org/ nications, license advancement and gener- free. The club’s temporary location is art form that has experienced resurgence WuffStock. al interest. Growing interest in digital data Richardson Community Center, 255 NE and lets your imagination run wild. The communications is sparked by the need to Coach Anders Court, Lake City. For more class is $30, which includes supplies. Call Black tie affair send detailed data (think email) without information, call 386-365-7136. 386-752-5229 for more information or to Greater Lake City Community the use of the internet. register. Development Association’s 13th annual Art league meeting black tie affair — “Red Carpet Night of Tuesday The Art League of North Florida invites Thursday Elegance” — will take place at 6 p.m. at the the community to attend its monthly meet- Columbia County Fairgrounds Exhibition NARFE meeting ing at 7 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Planning council meeting Hall. For ticket info, call 386-752-9785. The National Active and Retired Federal Church Fellowship Hall, 697 SW Baya The North Central Florida Regional Employees Association will meet at 1:30 Drive, Lake City. The speaker will be well- Planning Council will meet at 7 p.m. at the Feb. 25 p.m. at the Lifestyle Enrichment Center, known artist Anda Chance, a member of Lake City Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites, 213 628 SE Allison Court, Lake City. The guest the Florida Artist Group, a 60-year-old SW Commerce Blvd., Lake City. Dinner Image workshop speaker will be George Wehrli of Columbia organization that is currently exhibiting will start at 6:30 p.m. A meeting packet is The Melting Pot, a nonprofit perform- County Veterans Services. All current fed- members’ work in Ocala at the Webber posted on the council’s website at http:// ing arts gallery located at 500 N. Marion eral and retired employees are invited. For Gallery on the College of Central Florida ncfrpc.org. Hard copies of the packet will Ave. in Lake City, will host a “Color Me more information, call 386-752-8570. campus. She will sharing images from the be available at the council meeting. Beautiful” workshop from 10 a.m. to noon. exhibition, inviting discussion and sharing Free. For more information, call 386-867- Gardening tips personal insight. Concert 1601. It’s time to plan spring gardens. The UF/ Community Concerts will present “The IFAS Master Gardeners will provide tips to Wednesday Agency” at 7:30 p.m. at Levy Performing Living history successful gardening in Florida from 6:45 Arts Center on the FGC campus. The Chautauqua performer Ersula Knox- to 8 p.m. at the Columbia County Extension Alcohol ink class Agency, a band consisting of five virtuoso Odom will portray educator, philanthropist, Office, 971 W. Duval St., Lake City. Gateway Art Gallery, located at 168 N. jazz musicians, presents a high energy civil rights activist and founder of Florida’s Marion Ave. in Lake City, will present an program of international jazz in a variety of Bethune-Cookman University, Dr. Mary Square dance lessons alcohol ink class for all levels of artists styles: Brazilian samba, New Orleans, mod- McLeod Bethune, at 2 p.m. at Columbia The Lake City Square Dance Club, Dixie from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Award-winning artist ern, along with some Louie Armstrong. County Public Library’s Main Branch. OBITUARIES Jacqueline Dorothy of Boynton Beach. She had 16 Mrs. Rucker first started work- tery. Friends and relatives who Sass Henry grandchildren, 25 great-grand- ing, she was a telephone operator. prefer an alternative to flowers Jacqueline Dorothy Sass Hen- children and 4 great-great-grand- She was a secretary for the Flor- are encouraged to donate to Flor- ry, 87, passed peacefully at the children that also survive. ida Road Department, the First ida Baptist Children’s Homes Haven-Suwannee Valley Hospice Memorial services for Mrs. Baptist Church of Lake Butler (www.fbchomes.org) or St. Jude Care Center in Lake City on Feb- Henry were held on Saturday, and the Bradford Union Guid- Children’s Research Hospital ruary 12, 2018 February 17, 2018 at 11:00 AM ance Clinic. She also spent many (https://www.stjude.org). after an ex- at the Epiphany Catholic Church years as a homemaker. tended illness. with Father Robert Trujillo of- She is survived by her husband Obituaries are paid Jacqueline was ficiating. The family received of 58 years, Seabie P. Rucker; advertisements. For details, call a devout Cath- friends from 5:00-7:00 P.M., Fri- one child, Paula Elaine Kiger the Lake City Reporter’s classified department at 752-1293. olic and at- day evening, February 16, 2018 (Wayne) of Tallahassee, FL; and tended Epiph- at the funeral home with a Rosary two grandchildren, Tenley Kiger any Catholic at 4:30 P.M. In lieu of flowers, and Wayne Kevin Kiger. She is Church since moving to Lake the family asks that you consid- also survived by a sister, Faye City in 2006. Jacqueline was a er donations to the local Catho- Drew of Lakeland, FL. She was retired teacher in the North Car- lic Charities. Arrangements are predeceased by an infant son, olina School System. She is pre- under the direction and care of Paul Kevin Rucker and sister, Ida ceded in death by her husband; GATEWAY-FOREST LAWN Lee Tyson. Construction/Debris Containers Available John Francis Henry; her sons; FUNERAL HOME, 3596 S. US Her quiet intellect infused ev- John Henry and Joseph Henry; HWY 441, Lake City, FL, 32025. erything she did, eclipsed only by Father; Anthony Sass; Mother; Please leave words of comfort her kindness. The world is full of 755-7060 for the family at www.gateway impatient and entitled people; she Elizabeth Sass; brother; Kenneth 15 yd. • 20 yd. • 30 yd. • 40 yd. forestlawn.com. provided a counterpoint by sim- Sass; niece; Jennifer MacBean Delivered to your job site today. and son-in-law; Roland Coté. ply being herself. She treasured She is survived by her chil- Letha Edenfield Rucker her family, loving them selflessly. dren; Veronica Segars (Herb) of Letha Edenfield Rucker died A visitation will be held at Brick, NJ, Betty Ann of Deltona, February 13, 2018 at North Flori- Archer Funeral Home in Lake FL, Deborah Cox (Stephen) of da Regional Medical Center after Butler, FL, on Friday, February Lake City, Paul Henry (Nancy) of a two-month illness. 16 from 6-8 p.m. A funeral ser- Boynton Beach, Matthew Henry Mrs. Rucker was born in vice will be held at First Baptist THE TAX STATION (Felice) of Flanders, NJ, Ken- Shaw’s Still, FL, February 15, Church of Lake Butler on Satur- Tax Hotline Tax Preparation E Filing Refund Checks day, February 17 at 11 a.m. with neth Henry (Paulette) of Char- 1930 to Johnnie J. Edenfield and 386-758-0959 Serving N. Florida for 28 Years Amber lotte, NC, Kevin Henry (Jenifer) Vila Walker Edenfield. When burial to follow at Dekle Ceme-
CONGRATULATIONS TO Community Hospice & Palliative Care of Columbia County on their Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting dentures that fit you and your needs
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For a list of practices, please visit AspenDental.com. 1Starting price is based on a current denture wearer selecting a basic single arch replacement denture. Price does not include relines. Maximum fee $1982. Procedure code 5140, 5130, 5110, 5120. THE PATIENT OR ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT Community Hospice & Palliative Care of Columbia County THAT IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED FEE, OR REDUCED FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATION OR TREATMENT. All fees listed are minimal fees only. 2Denture Money-Back Guarantee applies to all full and partial dentures and covers the cost of the permanent denture(s) only. The guarantee period begins upon insert Lake City Office • 163 SW Stonegate Terrace, Suite 105 of final denture or hard reline and refund request must be submitted within 90 days thereafter. Denture(s) must be returned within 90 days after refund request date. Offer must be presented at first visit. Offer expires 12/31/18. © 2018 Aspen Dental Management, Inc. Candace Lauderdale DMD, Jong Yun Park DDS DN 20765, Joshua Estes DDM DN 19347, Kevon E. Rennie DMD DN21399. 6A SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2018 LOCAL LAKE CITY REPORTER 40th Olustee Festival takes sightseers BACK IN TIME Meet the People of PeoPles state Bank We’re your friends, family & neighbors. Stop by today and you’ll see we have a lot more than money invested in this community. Chris Bachelor of Business Administration from Texas Wesleyan University Graduate School of Banking at Colorado 28 Years in Banking At Peoples State Bank Since 2003 Married to Becky Dampier He has 3 children – Clint, Taylor and Katelynn President of Board of United Way of Suwannee Valley Chris Dampier Lisa Executive Vice President Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration from Saint Leo University At Peoples State Bank Since 2011 32 Years of Banking and Loan Experience Married to JEB Stewart She has 3 daughters – Lauren, Leah and Lindsay Photos by TONY BRITT/Lake City Reporter Olustee Battlefield re-enactors and cavalry units pass the viewing station during Active supporter of: Saturday’s 40th annual Olustee Battle Festival Parade. Lisa Stewart Chamber of Commerce events Vice President March of Dimes Loan Operations Manager Member of Altrusa International
MAIN BRANCH: 350 SW Main Blvd., Lake City, FL 32025 WEST OFFICE: 3882 West US Highway 90, Lake City, Florida 32055 PROFESSIONAL CENTER: 161 NW Lake Jeffery Rd., Lake City, FL 32055 855.711.0002 • 386.754.0002 • www.PSB.biz Come grow with us!
Lisa Harmon (from left), a Lake City-Columbia County Historical Museum volunteer, teaches Emma Hill, Betsy Ward, Braelyn McCandless and Traci Slanker about Civil War-era games and livestock. 2018 MONEY MARKET SPECIAL
C������ S����� 2018 MONEY MARKET Belmont Academy Charter School Open Enrollment for the 2018-2019 school year for grades K–12 at www.BelmontAcademy.com. % * The Open Enrollment period will start February 19 and run through March 16, 2018. SPECIAL Although we will be accepting entries for all grades, some grades may not have APY available seats. Please see the website for the online lottery registration portal and the Admission and Registration Policy. Registration for VPK is also available online. 1.25 www.BelmontAcademy.com $50,000 -$4.9mil in deposits* 1476 SW Walter Ave • Lake City, FL 32024 Phone: 386-487-0487 % C U YC ER F A E Y * PRESENTS LIMITED TIME OFFER! FCU Lake City Branch:APY 5831.25 W. Duval St. | Lake City, FL 32055 TTHHEE AAGGEENNCCYY $50,000 -$4.9mil in deposits* PROGRAM OF INTERNATIONAL JAZZ Brazilian Samba – New Orleans – Modern – Louie Armstrong 386-755-4141
*Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is accurate as of 1/2/18. You must ask for this offer. Terms, restrictions and conditions apply. See account agreement for current rates, terms and account requirements. Open to both personal and commercial members. New money marketmar account must be opened during the time period of 1/2/18 – 12/31/18 and must be funded with money currently not on deposit at Florida Credit Union. **Minimum balance to open account is $50,000.00. Introductory APY will apply from account opening until 12/31/18 regardless of account opening date. Balances $10,000.00-$24,999.99LIMITED will earn 0.15% APY,TIME 0.15% rate; $25,000.00-$49,999.99 OFFER! will earn 0.20% 3300 UR AY FFEB 2222 APY, 0.20% rate; $50,000.00 - $4,999,999.99 will earn 1.25% APY, 1.24% rate; $5,000,000.00+ will A F earn 0.15% APY, 0.15% rate. On 1/1/19, all introductory rates/APYs will adjust to the then current money marmarket rate/APY as stated on www.flcu.org at that time. Dividends are compounded and credited monthly. You may not make more than a combined six transfers and/or withdrawals per dult 20 Student ‑12 only $5 month from this account.FCU Withdrawals Lake may reduce City APY and Branch: fees may reduce earnings. Limited Cash or check time offer subject to change or cancellation at any time without notice. Rates are subject to change at any time including after the account has been opened. Visit www.flcu.org for membership or ONLINE at www.communityconcerts.info 583 W. eligibilityDuval requirements. St. | Federally Lake insured City, by NCUA. FL 32055