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1689 Margaret’s Walk $410,000 12193 Mandarin Rd $559,000 AKLEAFServing Oakleaf, Argyle & Western Clay County Cell: 904.651.3116 • AmazingJacksonvilleHomes.com THURSDAYO AUGUST 27, 2020 Vol. 7 • No. 7 Former Clay resident makes final cut for History Channel’s ‘Alone’ D’Ambrosio lasts weeks in Canadian Arctic wilderness By Wesley LeBlanc [email protected] ORANGE PARK – A former Clay County resident recently found himself alone in the middle of the Canadian Arctic wilderness for His- tory Channel’s “Alone” television show. Mark D’Ambrosio called Mid- dleburg his home for eight years moving to Orange Park for another seven years. He eventually left to Taylor Thigpen turned his attention to creating join the military at 22, but his hunt- a succulent business during the pandemic. ing, fishing and outdoorsman abili- ties would lead him through not Thigpen’s succulent just a successful military career, but onto “Alone.” It was here that he business takes root was able to test years of experience in the wilderness of a foreign place. during pandemic “Going into it, the word con- fident isn’t quite right because I By Wesley LeBlanc had never done anything like that [email protected] before,” D’Ambrosio said. “I was curious as to how I would do. After LAKE ASBURY – Taylor Thigpen, 14, the first 10 days, then 20 then 30, I Former Clay resident Mark D’Ambrosio was a finalist on “Alone.” He lasted more than six weeks in is Clay County’s succulent plant king. realized that I could handle being the wilderness until a parasite forced him to drop out. When school let out early this alone out there. That was a cool year for COVID-19 on March 13, thing to find out about myself.” forfeiting his chance to be the win- keep going so I decided to tap.” thousands of students prepared for Now 43, D’Ambrosio is one of ner. He said it was the most tired he an extended vacation. Thigpen pre- 10 competitors on “Alone” and after “My whole intention was to go had ever been in his life. Little do pared for business. He merged his beating out 22 others for a spot out there and not quit,” D’Ambrosio D’Ambrosio know that he had con- passion for entrepreneurship with on the show. He was flown to the said. “I didn’t want to give up. I tracted the Trichinosis parasite. His his knowledge of horticulture to cre- Canadian wilderness to spend time didn’t mind failing, but I didn’t temperature was 104 degrees when ate Succulent King. alone with 10 survival tools and his want to quit. My energy levels were he left the field and he spent the “I started business at a great personal skills. D’Ambrosio lastrf depleting rapidly, it was hard to next few days in a hospital. That’s time,” Thigpen said. “I was able to for more than five weeks before breathe, and my vision was going in take advantage of COVID-19 to meet eventually tapping out of the show, and out. I knew my body couldn’t SEE SURVIVOR, 12 SEE SUCCULENT, 10

JUST 12 MINUTES FROM OAKLEAF RESIDENTS 904-272-2200 • WWW.GORDONCHEVY.COM • 1166 BLANDING BLVD 2 THE OAKLEAF Thursday, August 27, 2020 Clay County’s census response eighth-best in state For Clay Today The Census Self-Response Rate is completed online. Some rural areas response-rates.html. Click on “Census ORANGE PARK – Clay County ranks the percentage of homes that respond of Clay County have a lower self- Tract” to see your neighborhood. eighth in the State of Florida with to the census on their own. response rate and a much lower Low online self-response rates may a 2020 Census self-response rate of The Cities of Green Cove Springs online response rate. Areas in the partially be due to poor internet 65.7%, compared to the rest of Flori- and Keystone Heights, and the Town zip codes 32656, 32666, and 32234 connectivity in some areas. If your da at 59.9, and the nation at 62.8%. In of Orange Park have an average 64 have an average of 50% self-response household doesn’t have reliable in- Clay County, 55.7% of census forms % self-response rate with half of the rate with only 23% of forms com- ternet service, there are other options were completed online with the rest forms completed online. The Town pleted online. Self-response rates for for completing the census such as completed over the phone or by mail- of Penney Farms has a self-response your neighborhood can be found ing back the paper form. rate of 54.1% with 39% of the form here: https://2020census.gov/en/ SEE CENSUS, 10 Thursday, August 27, 2020 THE OAKLEAF 3 Goodwill adjusts its business practices to deal with COVID-19

By Bruce Hope [email protected] confidence that comes with feeling comfortable in their clothes, have op- CLAY COUNTY – Goodwill Industries portunities to advance their education helps the community in a variety of and job training to take the next life ways throughout Northeast Florida, step, and the ability to get a great job particularly during the COVID-19 and provide for themselves and their pandemic. loved ones.” There are many locations where One of the most unique and people can find many lightly used interesting challenges is the mer- products, from clothing and shoes to chandise sold in stores is acquired housewares to sporting goods for low by donation from the public. During prices. As an organization, Goodwill the shutdown, people held onto their also helps people in need find jobs contributions until the stay-at-home and get training. order was lifted. Once that hap- COVID-19, however, has affected pened, Goodwill was overwhelmed Goodwill and its operations. Now by loads of drop-offs. There were so reopened, it is striving to continue many Goodwill had a second team of with their mission despite some of employees who rotated to help sort the unique challenges. donations and clean up the stores. “Jacksonville is strong. North Flor- Reopening was a significant chal- ida is strong. And together, we are lenge, according to Rey. Goodwill is also a place to go else. This place really is a hidden driving forward and getting through “We kept another team on staff,” back to school shopping for clothes gem for back to school shopping on this one day at a time by follow- he said. “They went store to store and some school supplies. a budget.” Rey keeps it simple on ing three simple principles: be kind, kind of cleaning the store up and “This [Goodwill] is really a good his overall thoughts about Goodwill, be safe, and work hard,” said David getting it prepared. Getting our back place to shop,” said Janice Wilcox of its reopening, and everything it has Rey, CEO of Goodwill Industries of rooms prepared for the influx of in- Middleburg. “And even though ev- faced. While his mantra is directed to North Florida via press release. “As ventory. We kind of had that strategy erything here isn’t in perfect shape if the Goodwill employees, it also ap- a united community, we can make and tied it in with a staggered rollout you take your time and look, there’s plies to those shop there.“Be kind, be sure that our neighbors can enjoy the in the month of May.” lots of deals you won’t find anywhere safe, and work hard.”

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Distance learning, 2,400 unreturned said in March. “We’re treating the laptops creates financial demand start of this like a new school year. ahead of schoolyear There will be things to work out and plenty of questions, but we’ll all get By Wesley LeBlanc through this together.” [email protected] While some students will be returning to campus, others will CLAY COUNTY – Chromebooks are continue their education using the more important now than ever for Chromebook. Approximately 22% of classrooms and homes around the the CCSD student population has ex- school district. pressed interest in distance learning When COVID-19 prompted the of the district’s entire total of 39,000 2019-20 school year to finish its students. Each one of these students last few months from home back will need some sort of internet- in March, the Clay County School connected device like a Chromebook ing school year. Roughly 15% – or distance learning students who ask District worked fast to ensure every to complete the year. Chromebooks 2,400 Chromebooks – have not yet for a Chromebook,” the district said. student in need of a Chromebook are also used by students in existing been returned. The district is work- “Ideally, the district would like to got one. This not only included the classrooms as well. ing not only to get Chromebooks and order enough to go one-to-one.” actual district-issued laptop, but The CCSD received about 85% internet hot spots to students in need The district is looking at ap- internet access as well. More than of its Chromebooks it gave away before school starts on Aug. 25, but proximately $4 million in costs to 16,000 Chromebooks were doled earlier this year ahead of the upcom- it’s working to order more so that the purchase the Chromebooks and out during the final weeks of March demand can be met. hotspots which are needed to meet so students could return to some “The district will be able to ac- the demand. semblance of educational normalcy commodate all projected numbers of in April. “It’s important that our students still get their education,” Broskie Why Allegro? Allegro has been serving the area’s seniors for nearly 20 Years, offering Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care.

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By Wesley LeBlanc [email protected]

ORANGE PARK – An 8-year-old YMCA camper won third place in a unique invention competition with more than 100 participants. It was the YMCA’s sixth annual Thingamajig Invention competition at its summer camp and campers had to work around new procedures as a result of COVID-19 to create their invention this year. Grayson Duke, 8, capitalized on the current pandemic by creating a third-place winning in- Campers at the YMCA Thingamajig Competition used their immagination to create a variety of unique inventions, vention that captures and kills germs. “I didn’t expect to win,” Duke said. “I was so excited when I found out that I had placed. I got a ribbon and everything. I got lucky that day.” What Duke invented was a germ collector. It was a device that attracts germs to it, much in the same way Grayson Duke developed a substance that a flower attracts bees to it. Once attracts and kills germs. the germs were sucked in, a special set of pills at the bottom killed the germs. that hundreds of campers across the This year was Duke’s third or Northeast region of Florida were fourth time at the camp, he said, and able to attend camp as they normally despite new restrictions related to the would and compete in the Thingama- coronavirus, he still had a blast. He jig competition. said that while things were different, The competition, otherwise he had just as much fun as every oth- known as the annual Presidential year from Baker, Clay, Nassau and and when Grayson’s face popped er year before it. Instead of field trips Challenge, took place on July 20-21. St. Johns counties, and the results of up, the reaction was priceless. He’s and pool time, he and friends worked “Their challenge was to invent a the competition were posted on July participated before but this was the on STEM projects in the Orange Park device to help stay germ free,” YMCA 24. Before Grayson heard his name, first year he placed so it was super Dye-Clay YMCA multipurpose room Clay County Youth Development he already knew he was the highest- exciting for him.” and participated in outdoor activi- Program Director Kyle Vinduska finisher from Dye-Clay. Grayson’s dad, George Duke, said ties in the woods just a few yards off said. “They could use recyclables and “What we did was on Friday, the he wasn’t surprised. His son’s always from the YMCA property. other supplies from around camp day they released the results, we had a knack for inventing things. It was thanks to YMCA spon- like newspaper, toilet paper, tape and gathered everybody up [socially dis- “To have one of our campers place sors Chemours, VyStar, Jacksonville rubber bands.” tanced],” Vinduska said. “We played that high was really special for all of Electric Authority and Navy Federal Twenty YMCAs competed this the video for each person that placed us,” Vinduska said.

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By Don Coble agriculture and meat production [email protected] since many workers were quaran- GREEN COVE SPRINGS – Annie tined during harvest and slaughter- Sheldon’s job changed the moment houses were closed as a precaution. she was appointed the new UF/IFAS An essential part of the recovery County Extension Director. will be restoring the food supply Field trips and summer camps chain, she said. were replaced by virtual classes as Sheldon served as the Family and COVID-19 essentially shut down most Consumer Sciences Extension Agent public gatherings. While the way in- in Clay County for the past four years formation is distributed has changed, and has more than 10 years of Exten- the mission hasn’t, Sheldon said. sion experience. “We had to make a transition to Prior to coming to Clay County, doing our programs virtually,” she she spent the first six years of her said. “The biggest part was how we career as Family and Consumer Sci- adjusted. It was a challenge. All of a ences Agent and Family Nutrition Annie Sheldon’s promotion to UF/IFAS County Extension Director was delayed by the COVID-19 sudden, everything was on Zoom.” Program Coordinator in Orange and pandemic shutdown. But she’s on the job now, adjusting many programs to virtual participation. Sheldon took over in an interim Alachua counties. She holds a B.S. in role for Dr. Brad Burbaugh in De- Dietetics from the University of North cember when he moved to Daytona Florida and a Master of Nonprofit always involved in 4-H,” she said. “I resources, youth, families and com- Beach. She officially was selected Management from the University of still am.” munity issues. Additionally, UF/IFAS by the University of Florida and Central Florida. Only now, most of it is done on- Extension offers opportunities for Clay County as the fulltime director In her new role, Sheldon will line. youth and volunteers through the in May, but the announcement was provide leadership for and coordinate UF/IFAS Extension Clay County 4-H Youth Development Program and delayed when county officials were the efforts of the Clay County Exten- provides science-based information Florida Master Gardener Program. forced to deal with the pandemic. sion team in developing an effective and educational programs to citizens, For more information call 904-284- Sheldon said the coronavirus overall county Extension program. helping them solve problems related 6355 or visit https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/ made a devastating impact on state “When I was younger, I was to agriculture, horticulture, natural clay/.

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By Don Coble [email protected] be- book on Dr. [Robert] Yerkes on it. I could have done more, but it wasn’t ORANGE PARK – Cynthia Cheatwood always warm and fuzzy.” dedicated nine months to compiling Other chapters include: “The First the stories and photographs that are Hundred Years,” “Pines and Pioneers,” the foundation of Orange Park’s past, “Tourism,” “Making a Living in Early calling it a humbling experience to Orange Park,” “Orange Park Normal create a chronological accounting of and Industrial School,” “Moosehaven,” the town’s history. “Building Community” and “Small- The advanced history and civics Town Pleasures.” teacher at Orange Park Junior High “The town has an interesting story will release her long-awaited book, that most people really don’t know,” “Images of America: Orange Park” on Cheatwood said. “Orange Park de- Monday, Aug. 24. The project took serves it. We’ve always been consid- a schoolyear to compete, but it was ered a throughway for people going generations in the making. Cindy Cheatwood from Jacksonville to Green Cove or “There’s never been a book that Jacksonville to Fleming Island. But just addressed the history of Orange from the State Archives, Clay County came one of the it’s so much more than that.” Park,” Cheatwood said. “The Histori- Historical Archives, local collections founders of Orange Park, and he The book is endorsed by the Or- cal Society of Orange Park and been and several university archives. kept journals that recorded the ange Park Historical Society. It’s also trying to bring out message for a The book reveals how Orange town’s politics and social life. Of a historical preservation project.” long time. Park, once known as Laurel Grove course, no story about Orange Park The historical society meets at “This was a very exciting project.” Plantation, was incorporated in 1979. would be complete without the the Clarke House, and Cheatwood The town has hundreds of stories. The warm climate and easy access town’s “Monkey Farm.” Cheatwood said the small greenhouse out back Cheatwood soon learned there was to the St. Johns River made it easy found the story so intriguing, she is in desperate need of repairs. The as many bases on lure as fact. She for some of the nation’s leaders, like dedicated an entire chapter to it. greenhouse originally was built as spent days pouring through records President Ulysses S. Grant and Har- The Yerkes Laboratory of Primate part of William Clarke’s pecan busi- and old photographs. He entrusted riet Beecher Stowe, to unwind amid Biology operated for 35 years south ness. Cheatwood said portions of Clay County Clerk’s Office historian the mossy oaks. of the state of James Burbridge for the book’s proceeds will be spent on Vishi Garig, Clay County Leader col- Counting the cover photo depict- animals from Cuba and Africa. repairs. umnist Mary Jo McTammany, as well ing William Elliston Parmenter Jr., “The Monkey Farm was an intense The book is available on Amazon Carolyn and Barney his wife Ione and daughter Mark on story,” she said. “There needs to be a and Arcadia Publishing. Clark, Van Royal and Steve How- their strawberry farm in around 1896, ard to provide and vet each tale. there are 216 photos of the town. Cheatwood gathered information The son of a Boston judge eventually JJACKSONVILLEACKSONVILLE MMEMORYEMORY GARDENSGARDENS FUNERAL HOME AND CEMETERY One convenient location, because it’s important for family to be together at a diffi cult time. Pre-Planning - Peace of mind, Locking in at today’s prices - 0% fi nancing for 60 months Discounted Funeral Packages (Pre-Need Only) | Pre-Planned Veteran Discounts 800 Oakleaf Plantation Pkwy Visit us at JacksonvilleMemoryGardens.com Orange Park, FL 32065 111 Blanding Boulevard (Next to Orange Park Mall) | 904-272-2435 OakleafBaptist.com

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Clay County Clerk’s office may reasons vary. The intended recipi- have unclaimed checks for you ent possibly moved away without Police briefs leaving a forwarding address, or CCSO: Man arrested for ARRESTS & BOOKINGS For The Oakleaf put the check away and forgot molesting a minor for years about it. The list includes more (Name, age, location of arrest, charges). GREEN COVE SPRINGS – The of than 250 uncashed jury service LAKE ASBURY – A man entrusted Key: FTA-Failure to Appear; DWLSR-Driving Clay County Clerk of Court Tara checks, witness checks, overpay- to care for a girl was charged on Aug. Without a License-Suspended or Revoked; S. Green may have money for ments, refunds, cash bonds, and 5 with molesting her for years, the DUI-Driving Under the Influence; VOP-Vio- you in the form of an unclaimed garnishment deposits, some worth Clay County Sheriff’s Office said. lation of Probation; BAL-blood alcohol level. check. Like all Clerk of Court of- hundreds – even thousands - of Eric Wayne Cole, 49, was charged There are no assumptions or representations fices across the dollars. with custodial sexual battery of a about guilt or innocence. Anyone arrested or state, Green’s Clerk of Court Green encour- victim younger than 18 and lewd and booked is presumed innocent. staff reviews ages individuals, businesses and or- lascivious behavior. unclaimed ganizations to view the unclaimed According to the arrest report, the Monday, Aug.17 and uncashed checks list. “We work hard to make abuse started when she was 13 and Brian A. Sullivan, 41, Oakleaf, FTA checks annually sure citizens receive the funds lasted four years. The child said she and sends out that are rightly theirs,” said Green. was molested “hundreds of times.” Sunday, Aug. 16 a public notice “Whether the amount is large or The child took a photo of Cole once the funds small, it’s important that we help Daryl R. Dittman, 42, Oakleaf, domestic while he was getting dressed fol- have remained finalize their court-related process battery, simple battery lowing an assault so she would be unclaimed for by notifying recipients in this way.” believed, CCSO reported. Cole was more than a Tara Green Please Note: if you do not col- released from the Clay County Jail Saturday, Aug. 15 year. The Clay lect, your money by this year’s Charles S. Hanson, 45, Oakleaf, using force after posting bonds totaling $300,006. County Clerk’s Office has more deadline (Sept. 30), Section 116.21 to impede voting than $30,000 in unclaimed funds of Florida statutes allows funds to Man jailed after causing scene from 2018. be forfeited and deposited into the Friday, Aug. 14 while early voting View Clay County’s unclaimed Clerk’s Fine and Forfeiture Fund. Allyssa C. James, 24, Oakleaf, criminal mis- funds list by visiting www.clay- To search the unclaimed funds list, OAKLEAF – An enraged Orange chief, resist/obstruct/oppose police clerk.com. If you see your name visit www.clayclerk.com. Call (904) Park man was arrested on Aug. 15 on the list, you have until Sept. 30 269-6317 for more information on after he caused a disturbance while Tuesday, Aug. 11 to claim the money using a form how to receive the funds for which early voting. Charles Scott Hanson, Hudson Ferguson III, 28, Oakleaf, simple provided online. The checks listed names are listed. 45, was charged with using force to domestic battery were mailed but never cashed and refrain elections officers from per- forming their duties after they asked Saturday, Aug. 8 him to fill out a new signature card Shaina P. Katz, 26, Oakleaf, possession- at the poll at 3975 Eagle Landing fentanyl, possession-methamphetamine, Parkway. possession/use-drug paraphernalia Clay County Sheriff’s Office deputies told the man poll workers Wednesday, Aug. 5 needed a new signature card and Eric W. Cole, 49, Lake Asbury, sexual bat- INSURANCE they weren’t denying him the right tery on child between 12-18, lewd/lascivi- to vote, CCSO said. He filled out the ous molestation card, voted and said something to the RATES workers that prompted his immediate arrest. TOO HIGH? Seatbelt ticket turns into drug C. Scott Roberts arrest for GCS woman Owner/Agent WE CAN HELP! OAKLEAF – The Clay County www.GeorgeRobertsIns.com [email protected] Sheriff’s Office stopped a woman • Been in business over 60 years driving on State Road 23 for not • Two locations in Clay County wearing her seatbelt and wound up Visit our showroom for the best selection, prices & customer service! • We can write ALL lines of insurance finding fentanyl, methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. Shaina Pear FREE ESTIMATES Katz, 26, of Green Cove Springs, was We represent more than 30 A-Rated insurance arrested Aug. 8 after a CCSO K-9 1988 Wells Road Orange Park, FL 32073 | 904-272-8430 companies provinding you the best insurance at alerted deputies of the narcotics. Mon-Fri 9-6pm | Sat. 9-4 pm the best price. She also was given a ticket for not Sun 12-4 pm wearing her seatbelt. www.CarpetMan.biz

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on the number of people living in He looks forward to the Clay County Census an area and their needs. Census Succulent Agricultural Fair each year because from page 2 counts fund medical research, from page 1 he enters his own homegrown plants public healthcare facilities, into competition there. mailing in the paper form, calling in improve road systems, provide meet a demand. People had new When it looked like his Clay your responses, or taking the census school lunches and after school time to learn about gardening, time County horticulture education would at the library. All Clay County public programs, and much more. The they didn’t have when working full- be suspended by the coronavirus, library locations have computer sta- public health services and facili- time. Succulents are trendy and it’s Thigpen decided to start Succulent tions available to take the census for ties funded by the census will be where the market was so I started King. It’s a licensed nursery that free and you do not need a library critical as we work towards a Succulent King.” ships succulents, cacti and other card. Library staff clean computer healthier and more resilient so- The idea came to Thigpen shortly house plants to 50 states. It also stations after each use and can an- ciety for our children and grand- after schools closed, but his business sells apparel and monthly succulent- swer basic questions about complet- children. wasn’t up and running until May. He subscription boxes that include a ing the form. All Clay County library All U.S. households received had to put hours of time into re- monthly shipment of two potted branches are open from 1-6 p.m., their invitation to respond to the search. How does a 14-year-old start plants and some garden accessories Monday through Friday and anyone census in the mail as of April 1, a business? What do I need? How to go with them. can walk in to complete their census 2020, and this year, the deadline should I go about creating a web- As the start of the 2020-21 school form online. to respond has been extended to site? Social Media? Employees? These year nears closer, Thigpen has no There is also free Wi-Fi at each of Oct. 31. were all questions Thigpen wrestled plans to slow down. the libraries so you can connect your This is the first year that ev- with leading up to his May opening. “School will make it a challenge device from the parking lot to take eryone will have the opportunity He had to acquire a small busi- but I’m fully ready to overcome that the census anytime. to respond online, in addition to ness license and a nursery license. challenge and see even more success More 500,000 census workers will by mail or over the phone. This He had to find a marketplace – he for Succulent King,” Thigpen said. start visiting all U.S. households that year’s census is also available in found Facebook’s local markets He’ll begin his ninth grade year at have not responded. Census takers 59 languages. Responding to the although Succulent King ships to 50 St. Johns Country Day. He has part- will wear masks and follow local census is easy and it only takes states – and he had to find the suc- time employees, including fellow public health guidelines when they about 10 minutes to complete the culents. All of that is in the past now students and his grandmother. visit your home to personally ask form. All answers are strictly con- because Succulent King has been His business is focused on the questions on the census form. If fidential and can never be shared open for business for weeks now Facebook right now, but Thigpen is you do not wish to have an at or used against you in any way. and Thigpen says it only grows to be working hard at getting a website home visit from a census taker, you Chairman of the Board of more successful with each passing and professional social media pages can #AvoidTheKnock and respond County Commissioners Gayward week. created. now online at https://my2020census. Hendry said, “Let’s all do our part “It has gone way better than I “I’ve always been a go-getter,” gov/, complete and return the paper to make Clay County a healthier ever expected,” Thigpen said. Thigpen said. “I have really high form, or call in your response toll and better place to live for every- Thigpen’s history with horticul- goals. I don’t like to just talk about free (844) 330-2020. one. Stand up and be counted, ture goes way back. He’s been an things – I want to do things and I Every 10 years the U.S. Census complete the 2020 Census now active member in Clay County’s 4-H did this on my own for that reason. I Bureau counts the number of people by mail, by phone or online and a number of other horticulture- have high hopes for where Succulent in all U.S. households and asks some and #AvoidTheKnok at the door focused clubs for about seven years. King is heading.” very basic questions about their age, this fall.” race and gender. An accurate census count is ® critical information that affects your Clay Electric Cooperative, Inc. voice in government, how much money your community receives, and Competitiverates,noW-IRUprofit, how your community plans for the righthereinyourcommunity. future. Keystone•(352)473-4917 The 2020 Census will determine OrangePark•(904)272-2456 how hundreds of billions of dollars clayelectric.com will be spent in the public and pri- vate sectors each year for the next 10 years. 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Download the fact sheet at jea.com 12 THE OAKLEAF Thursday, August 27, 2020

The cast of “Alone,” including former Clay County resident Mark D’Ambrosio spent more than two months surviving in the Canadian Arctic Wilderness.

Survivor for the reconnaissance and scout from page 1 sniper sectors of the branch. He had already been skilled in outdoorsman- That’s where the parasite was discov- ship before his stint in the military ered. While he spent his days in the but those years in service solidified wilderness trying to survive off the his lifelong passion for wilderness land, the parasite was living off of survival. Even after “Alone,” he’s find- his organs. ing new ways to keep the passion His liver and spleen were in- fueled. fected. Fluid has built up behind He has a YouTube channel com- his right lung. His heart was in the ing soon featuring himself and condition of an 87-year-old man that friends performing survival expedi- had just gone through a heart attack tions in Vietnam, Japan and other D’Ambrosio’s doctors told him. places. He works as a survival in- “The doctors said if he hadn’t structor during the summer months tapped out when he did, in one or and spends his off-season months The county’s recycling center at the Rosemay Hill Solid Waste Management Facility has seven two more days out there, my heart hunting, climbing and performing recycling stations . would’ve failed,” D’Ambrosio said. his own survival expeditions. D’Ambrosio had been a fan of “It’s pretty much my life,” he said. “Alone” since the first season, and to D’Ambrosio left the show in Oc- be on the show after having devoted tober and wasn’t cleared as healthy pounds weekly and four tires much of his life to survival skills, from the parasite until February of Recycle monthly at no charge to the resi- was a dream come true. D’Ambrosio this year. He currently resides in from page 4 dent. spent nearly 10 years in the Marine Washington with his 2-year-old son The prospective return to recy- Corps conducting special operations Max. cling pickup is Monday, August 3. COVID-19 interaction leads to a two- While Towns anticipates that there week quarantine. will likely be a surplus of recy- “Due to the increased volumes clables to pick up, he does not and recommended protocols with expect any change in the typically staff members, they [Advanced scheduled day that residents will Disposal] were without a significant put their bins on the curb. portion of their drivers awaiting “It’s our intention to recover clearance,” said Towns. “So, we made from the suspension in a very the decision with the hauler when it short time,” he said. “Hopefully, became apparent that they could not within that first week or so, we provide adequate service, to tempo- should be back to normal.” rarily suspend recycling in order to concentrate on garbage collection.” Clay County residents pay $226 annually for their environmental services, which includes curbside garbage, recycling, yard trash, bulky waste, and waste disposal. It also includes the ability to drop-off at Frank M Meininger, AAMS® Financial Advisor edwardjones.com five different locations in the county. Member SIPC (Those locations can be found on 7855 Argyle Forest Blvd claycountygov.com under the En- Unit 904 vironmental Services department). Jacksonville, FL 32244-7707 904-778-4188 The drop-off centers allow for 500 IRT-1848E-A Sports SMAC says no, FHSAA says go

FHSAA votes 11-5 reported noted that, as of August 10, “only four of 67 counties had By Joshua Wilson opened schools, therefore we have FloridaHSFootball.com absolutely no new data from the with Randy Lefko impact of reopening schools on the COVID-19 infection rate...Due to GAINESVILLE, Fla. – The FHSAA the 2-14 day incubation period of Board of Directors has given the SARS-Cov-2 viral shedding or symp- green light the fall sports season to tom development, this data will not start August 24. be available for review until schools The FHSAA board was also have been open for face-to-face given a medical scenario statement education and activities for 14-21 from their own Sports Medicine days at a minimum.” Advisory Committee, chaired by Dr. SMAC’s recommendation was to Jennifer Roth Maynard and includ- delay the start of fall sports beyond ing 13 medical professionals, that August 24 “in order to evaluate recommended a start delay. SMAC’s crucial date of COVID-19 3-4 weeks concern was an increase in data after schools have opened.” showing COVID cases in ages 11-17 In an 11-5 vote by the Board Oakleaf High graduate Shaquille Quarterman has become part of the Jacksonville and, with no data available from Jaguars football program as a rookie draft choice out of the University of Miami. in-school populations, the SMAC SEE FOOTBALL, 14

Jaguars get a second Simmons becomes a Pirate home-towner on roster By Randy Lefko Sports Editor Lake City’s Jernigan joins Shaq said Wash, with a coy smile to his rookie linebacker. OAKLEAF - Oakleaf High senior By Randy Lefko Wash later commented on Quar- quarterback Walter Simmons had Sports Editor terman in a post-session press con- one thing in mind when choosing ference giving him high marks for his college for his next phase of JACKSONVILLE - Oakleaf High’s Sha- football intelligence. football playing; actually two. One, quille Quarterman has already made “If you look at our division, it is choose a program that would offer an impression on the field and off a very strong running division,” said an immediate opportunity for the the field as a rookie draft choice of Wash. “We wanted to get guys with athletically-gifted signal-caller, and, the Jacksonville Jaguars football. a very high football IQ and, talking two, a pseudo-birthday present for “I like him,” said Jacksonville Jag- about Shaq and Nate (Nate Evans, his mom with a choice that the fam- uars head coach Doug Marrone “You rookie UCF), both of them are very ily would be able to attend an many put on the tape and watch him and intelligent and have done a nice job games as possible. he’s going around making plays. He’s of picking up schemes. We know On the table was NCAA national a guy that really loves football.” they are going to bust, but, with both champion LSU, but Simmons chose In Monday’s practice, the first guys, that bust only happens once.” away from Baton Rouge a bit more padded for the Jaguars, Quarterman One comment Marrone recalled east and north. got a quick comment from defensive about Quarterman was a conversa- “He wanted to go somewhere coach on a read during a scrimmage tion with his linebacker where Quar- Oakleaf High quarterback Walter Simmons where he could make a quick im- drill. terman shared his own thoughts. III made his jump to college football with pact,” said Walter Simmons, II, the “Way to go 50, way to be disci- his selection of East Carolina University. plined while taking a peek in there,” JAGUARS, 14 SEE PIRATE, 15 14 THE OAKLEAF Thursday, August 27, 2020

Football changes in each. Volleyball will not ity rate for COVID-19 infections. That this plan. from page 13 travel to a high-powered tournament was not enough to sway the board And with all teams that commit to in Orlando and not have New Smyrna to go with their preferred option of the State Series, all teams would earn of Directors in the board’s third Beach High visit as one loss on the Option 3B. a playoff spot. emergency meeting on Fri., Aug. 14, schedule. Cross country will open at Option 1 presented a plan to As such, all teams that earn a after four hours of discussion, the the August 21 Cecil Field Preseason keep the August 24 start date with playoff spot would be broken down FHSAA board moved to start sports Classic in Jacksonville. games starting the week of Septem- by region with the playoff seeds be- on August 24. The five votes against Cunningham, noting other sports ber 7, which would start with Week 2 ing determined by a blind draw and included the board chairperson, will start September 9, said his school games that would have been played home teams would be determined Lauren Otero, the athletic director at as well as most of the county have on August 28. It also pushes the sea- with a coin flip. Now if more than Tampa Plant High School. had good responses for the COVID son end week back by one week to eight teams per region for Class 1A- One statewide group represented restrictions of the summer training have it end on November 6 instead of 4A or more than 16 teams per region to the board a petition of nearly sessions. October 30. in Class 5A-8A, the Week 11 game 40,000 signatures in a LetThemPlay “I think the kids and the staff In this plan, all Kickoff Classics would become a play-in State Series campaign. understand what is at stake and have and Week 1 games would be outright game. According to Fleming Island High responded,” said Cunningham. “We canceled but could be rescheduled Also noted was that if a team is Athletic Director Travis Cunningham, have been kind of going with the later on, if permissible. Also, the currently independent, they will re- the vote just started his plans to re- flow of what is needed and has to be FHSAA noted on the plan that if a main independent and teams that opt schedule games on all of his sports done to keep moving forward. The county has restricted travel to county- out of the State Series or lost in the teams with access to other counties kids lost a bunch of time with this only, they would be required to notify first three round of the playoffs, they the primary sticking point. summer and don’t want to lose any- the FHSAA and opposing schools on may play games up to Sat., Dec. 5, “Right now, St. Johns County is more. The county in general has been the schedule regarding this issue. which would allow teams to make up able to play out of county and Duval really good.” Another change in the Option 1 games to get to a 10-game total. County is having a meeting tomor- At the FHSAA meeting, in a mo- plan would mean no district games The Board of Directors also voted row (Tues., Aug. 18) to see when tion made by Carlos Ochoa, Athletic and the current classifications, dis- 10-6 to recommend a COVID-19 their start date is,” said Cunningham. Director at Hialeah Gardens, it sup- tricts, and regions would all be abol- waiver in the EL3 form package, but “We lost the Clay and Lake Min- ported Option 1 as on the table with ished and allowing teams to instead not require it while also voting 16-0 neola football games right out with amending of including an opt-out opt-out by the September 18 date. to require watching a safety video on the proposed season start against date of September 18 for the state se- Classifications would be redrawn COVID-19 and produce a certificate Palatka at home on September 11. ries, instead of the October 12 opt-in likely after the FHSAA’s Board of showing they watched it as part of We also lost Tallahassee Godby at date for the state series as originally Directors meeting in September once the action items and new business the end of the season because Leon proposed. it is known how many schools would that was brought up after the main County schools will stay within their After lengthy discussion includ- participate at that point. It would vote. county. If possible, we would like to ing information from Dr. Jennifer continue with the current FHSAA rule Bobby Johns, Wewahitchka Athlet- reschedule the Clay game and they Maynard from the Mayo Clinic in of splitting the smallest 1/3 of the ic Director and Head Football Coach would to.” Jacksonville, the chairperson of the schools in Class 2A through Class 4A, was also recognized for his service Cunningham has schedules set up Sports Medicine Advisory Committee, while the Largest 2/3 of the schools as the departing Board President by for his other fall sports; golf, cross explained that only one county in the going to Classes 5A to 8A. Class 1A FHSAA Executive Director George country and volleyball, with slight state is under the five percent positiv- Rural would remain unchanged with Tomyn.

Jaguars to have solid starts from Schobert and from page 13 Jack with Chaisson and Carrius Marsh (a free agent from Arizona Cardi- “‘Coach, I’m just telling you now nals) battling for the third spot and when my cleats are on the grass, I Quarterman on a list of six vying for will do whatever you want me to do. backup slots. I’m going to play,” recalled Marrone “I think we’re going to have some of the conversation. “Those are the solid depth at the linebacker posi- kind of things you feel good about. tion,” Wash said. “It was very impor- Now they’ve got to go out and earn tant this offseason that we go out it.” and get football players that are very Also, this week, the Jaguars added intelligent. That’s one thing we’ve got more hometown love to their roster with this group, top to bottom.” with the recent signing of former In a Friday practice session last Columbia Lake City defensive tackle week, Quarterman, who has been Tim Jernigan. marked as a special teams athlete Jernigan, a second round pick Shaq Quarterman, right, Oakleaf High graduate, chats during a break in summer session while learning the ropes of NFL line- out of Florida State University by the and talks with fellow linebacker Nate Evans, a rookie out of University of Central Florida. backer, got a high-five from defen- Baltimore Ravens in 2014, got signed sive coach Todd Wash after making from the Philadelphia Eagles where “It damn sure feels good to be good sign amidst the breakdown of a read during team drills against the he played the last three seasons. home,” he said via videoconference the defensive line. The Jaguars signed first string offense led by quarterback It was, for the Jaguars, a move to shortly after the Jaguars’ 90-minute free agent middle linebacker Joe Gardner Minshew. solidify a defensive tackle position hit practice Monday morning at the Schobert from Cleveland to put for- The Jaguars had their first padded hard during 2020 Training Camp by Dream Finders Homes Practice Com- mer middle backer Myles Jack on the session on Mon., Aug. 17 with Jaguars illness, injury and COVID-19 optouts, plex. weak side with Quarterman learning coaching Doug Marrone seeing an plus the departure to the Ravens of Jernigan joins Quarterman as two the middle, where he was an All-ACC uptick in the team’s play. All-Pro Calais Campbell, but the sign- local products on the Jaguars roster first teamer with the University of “Everything’s a ramping-up type ing was personal for Jernigan, who and has already brought a little fire to Miami and K’Lavon Chaisson, a first period,” Marrone said. “We want to attended Justina Elementary School in the Jaguars defensive attack. round pick fighting for a possible get used to it. We don’t want to see Jacksonville before graduating from Defensive coach Todd Wash noted fourth spot. people on the ground. We don’t want Columbia High School. that the linebacker depth has been Early on, the Jaguars are projected to be leaving our feet.” Thursday, August 27, 2020 THE OAKLEAF 15

Pirate top of that list,” said Garis. “We have from page 13 had great players at Oakleaf and at my other schools. Walter is in that father end of a three-tier football mix of great football players.” Walter Simmons package that includ- East Carolina, 4-8 last year and 3-9 ed Grandpop Simmons at number in 2018, with a history of quarter- one and quarterback Walter at No. backs that have been on the annual III. “He didn’t want to be a four year Manning Award Watch List for the high school starter then sit around best quarterback in the NCAA, will for four years before getting a shot at have junior Holton Ahlers back to college.” probably direct the Pirates high- Simmons gathered friends and octane offense. Ahlers, a two-year family for a quick reveal as he was starter for the Pirates, has over 5,000 surrounded by nearly 30-35 fans in yards in those two years with 33 his living room to tell the football scores and just 13 touchdowns. The world that East Carolina University Pirates started a bit behind par in in Greenville, SC, will be his next the first six games with just over 200 football home. Walter Simmons III, center, had a host of family and friends with him when he made his yards twice before clicking for pass- announcement to choose East Carolina University as its next football step. ing yard totals of 535, 498, 374 and 308 for the final four games with 14 “Me and dad have scores. “I chose East Carolina because been to the front door, they told me I was the only quar- but Walter wants to terback they were recruiting,” said Simmons. “They said I got everything, walk through that door football-wise, on the board that fits and get his shot in the their system. “Their offense is just like ours at Oakleaf.” NFL.” East Carolina plays in the Ameri- can Conference with the likes of – Walter Simmons, II South Florida, Central Florida, South- ern Methodist U, Temple, Cincinnati, Navy, Tulsa and Tulane. The American Conference talent pool put 17 play- “I wanted to make my commit- ers into the NFL draft last year with ment on my mom’s birthday,” said four teams in the NCAA final Top Simmons, who has tendered offers 25; Memphis (12-2 and the American since his first in the spring of his Conference champion at 17th), Navy freshman season. “The coaches and (at 20th, 11-2), Cincinnati (at 21st, 11- the college environment are what I Walter Simmons offers a total package football player for East Carolina University: a 3) and Central Florida (at 24th, 10-3). was looking for in the final choice passer, a runner and an athlete that can take off and score from anywhere on the field. As for the 2020 season, Simmons and that was what was important for maintains that his readiness to play this choice.” has always been his strength. As for the 2020 season, Simmons “I just keep grinding and stay maintains that his readiness to play prepared with my own workouts and has always been his strength. film because whatever happens hap- “I just keep grinding and stay pens and I can’t control it,” said Sim- prepared with my own workouts and mons. “My dad and grandfather are film because whatever happens hap- big influences to stay with the grind.” pens and I can’t control it,” said Sim- Pop Simmons, Walter No. II, and mons. “My dad and grandfather are Grandpop Simmons, Walter No. 1, big influences to embrace the grind.” both know the rigors of each level Pop Simmons, Walter No. II, and of football with both being standout Grandpop Simmons, Walter No. 1, players; Ed Waters for Grandpop and both know the rigors of each level Bethune Cookman for Pop, plus short of football with both being standout stints in the NFL; injuries besetting players; Ed Waters for Grandpop both. and Bethune Cookman for Pop, plus One of Pop Simmons fondest short stints in the NFL; Kansas City memories, one that revealed his son’s Chiefs and Atlanta Falcons. character, was an inopportune inter- “This has been a long-time com- ception in Oakleaf playoff game that ing,” said Pop Simmons. “Me and Walter Simmons has been honing his craft at quarterback camps over the summer and ended in overtime with an intercep- dad have been to the front door, but throwing sessions with his teammates in Oakleaf. tion at the goal line. Walter wants to walk through that “It took him a while to get past door and get his shot in the NFL. I that one, but I told him you win think Walter made the best decision “The one play that stands out for much like our approach.” some, you lose some, football is an for himself and family.” me is an 80 yard run he had against Garis, who has had a bevy of tal- 11 man sport and quarterbacks will Simmons, with a 7-3 record last Gainesville that he made the right ent at his fingertips even before Oak- get the blame. If they didn’t tip it, year after a 5-6 campaign in 2018 read on an option and absolutely leaf with his stint at Ponte Vedra High it was a score,” said Simmons II. that earned a playoff spot and a 2-9 stomped his foot in the ground to in a state runnerup finish three years “Quarterback has to have tough skin. freshmans season, returns to a lineup break away and outran everyone ago, commented that Simmons brings His best effort was 69 points in 2018 chock full of offensive weaponry that 80 yards for the touchdown,” said a multitude of talent to the table for against Bartram Trail in a 69-53 win should highlight his immense quar- Garis. “East Carolina is very blue col- East Carolina.. with three passing scores and two terback intelligence, says Oakleaf lar grinder mentality which is who “I don’t put top 10 numbers on run scores.” High head coach Frank Garis. Walter is. Schematically, they are very guys, but Walter would be near the 16 THE OAKLEAF Thursday, August 27, 2020

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