75¢ Friday/ Saturday March 26-27, 2021 www.perrynewspapers.com Lakey lawsuit settled for $55,000

The Taylor County Lakey filed suit against coronavirus (COVID-19) fees, they would have been Commission has settled the board in late 2019, outbreak. astronomical. Also, you a lawsuit filedalleging by the county The commission held a need to remember, your former Taylor County violated his employmentspecial meeting Tuesday, deductible is $5,000.” Administrator Ted Lakeycontract and due process March 23, during which Under the agreement, over his 2018 firingby not for providing himCounty Attorney Conrad Lakey will receive $55,000 $55,000. with a hearing prior to his Bishop outlined the and no attorneys’ fees, The county will only termination, as well as three settlement agreement. according to Bishop. have to pay $5,000 other of claims. “Taylor County was “That’s all he’s going to that amount to cover theA mediation hearing was sued on five or sixget differentin the way of monetary,” deductible on its liability held earlier this month in counts in the complaint he said. “The insurance insurance policy. the case between the county, filed by Mr. Lakey,” Bishopcompany is going to pay it. Citing job performance Lakey and the insurance said. “This settled all of I questioned that, and they issues and a lack ofcarrier, which approved them, and it is a completeassured us that they would community involvement, the settlement. County release of all those claims. pay that. the county commission Attorney Conrad Bishop One of the things most folks “[Lakey] was also suing voted 4-0 to terminateand Commissioner Michael need to remember is, if he to get his job back,” Bishop Lakey’s contract at a Newman Nov. represented was successful in some of said. “He will not knowingly Former County Administrator Ted Lakey shakes 14, 2018, special meeting,the county during the them, he may have been apply or knowingly agree to former Commissioner Malcolm Page’s hand as he less than two years after he mediation hearing, whichentitled to attorneys’ fees. ➟ Please see page 3 leaves his final county meeting. was hired on Jan. 30, 2017. was held virtually due And,to the if he got attorneys’ What

Courts happens back in session after you City has state-of- Taylor County held its first jury trial in more than a year this week, the-art $13 million although the proceedings had a slightly different look than before the coronavirus flush? sewer plant (COVID-19) outbreak began. The City of Perry’s new “The new plant was set a toilet or pulls the The misdemeanor state-of-the-art wastewater up from the start to be a drain plug of a sink, the driving under the treatment plant is now up nutrient removal facility,” wastewater is pushed influence (DUI) case, Wastewater Superintendent through underground pipes which stemmed from and running, replacing the original 70-year-old Stephen Caruso said, before being received at the a traffic stop last June, plant with a larger, explaining more that the previous primary treatment station, ended soon after the where rotary screenings state rested its case advanced and efficientplant was unable to remove facility. nutrients such as nitrogen remove all of the plastic when the judge accepted Construction of the new and phosphorus. from the waste. a plea change submitted $13-million treatment plant According to Caruso, “That process removes by the defendant after he was completed in early the facility’s new nutrient- reached an agreement mostly inorganics,” Caruso with the state attorney’s 2020, approximately tworemoval process not said, adding with a laugh, years after construction only meets, but exceeds, “You would be surprised office. began adjacent to the Florida Department of what people flush down Some 90 prospective original treatment plant Environmental Protection their toilets – children and jurors received located at the end of Goff summons earlier this (DEP) and federal their toys.” Street off US 98. Environmental Protection The rotary screenings month from Clerk of The new plant boasts Agency’s (EPA) permit consists of a 24-foot tall Court Gary Knowles, instructing them to newer technology, criteria, putting out effluent headworks, as well as a grit Caruso uses an 18-foot transparent tube including aeration and water that is “crystal clear removal system, that filters arrive at the Taylorreferred to as a “sludge judge” to monitor the out masses – such as trash County Courthouse on oxidation processes thatand clean.” amount of solid waste settling on the bottom of remove harmful chemicalsFrom the time a city the morning of Friday, ➟ Please see page 2 a clarifier basin. from the waste. utility customer flushes March 19, and remain parked in their cars until called. Ultimately, 25 Siegmeister law license suspended individuals were brought to the third- The Florida Bar has U.S. Attorney’s Office a petition filed by“is suspended The from the floor courtroom for suspended former Third regarding her claim to their jury selection, where Florida Bar seeking to practicehold of law effective 30 they were positioned Judicial Circuit State 70-acre farm in Live Oak, Siegmeister in contempt for days from the date of this Attorney Jeff Siegmeister’s failing to respond to to an order so that the respondent throughout the jury box which the government is and other public seating license to practice law for seeking to seize as part of a official Bar inquiry. can close out his practice areas to maintain social an indefinite period, even asfraud case brought against In the order, the court ➟ Please see page 2 he continues to be held in Siegmeister. states that Siegemister distancing. Everyone custody in Arizona awaiting The same parcel of land was also required to his transfer to Florida to is also connected with the wear masks. County Judge Bill face multiple federal felony felony case brought against charges. Siegmeister by the U.S. COVID vaccine Blue thanked the jurors for their service, noting At the same time, his District Court. that this was the first former wife, Jamie Dykes, Last Friday, the Florida jury trial held in either remains in talks with the Supreme Court upheld age drops again Jeff Siegmeister county or circuit court in Taylor County since Taylor County residents age 40 and over are eligible to receive the coronavirus vaccine through the local before the COVID-19 health department beginning Monday, March 29, with outbreak. Want a street light? vaccinations opening up to all residents age 18 or older Soon after the the following Monday, April 5. proceedings began, three The Perry City Council Gov. Ron DeSantis announced the age extension of the 25 prospective city’s March 23 meeting,City Finance Director has asked staff to developprompting a discussion that Penny Staffney, filling onin March 25, making the vaccine widely available jurors were dismissed to adults of all ages nearly one month earlier than due to established an official street light policyled to the council asking for City Manager Taylor previously expected. exemptions. following a request from staff to bring back a draft Brown, who missed the property owners on Shady policy on how and when On March 22, DeSantis made vaccines available For the rest, the meeting due to illness, defense attorney and Oaks Lane. the city will have streetstated that the city is to those 50 and older, dropping the age requirements state attorney conducted Councilman Ward lights installed along roads spending more than down from 60 due to a “relatively modest” demand. Ketring brought the located within the city He anticipated coronavirus vaccines being available ➟ ➟ Please see page 3 Please see page 3 request to the councillimits. at the ➟ Please see page 3

Index One section 132nd Year, No. 13 Weather Religion ...... A-4 Looking Back ...... A-8 Friday 79˚ Saturday 83˚ Sunday 81˚ Sports ...... A-5 Entertainment ...... A-9 67˚ 65˚ 65˚ Community ...... A-7 Classifieds ...... A-10 A-2 Perry News-Herald March 26-27, 2021 100% of the plant’s final effluent is re-used FLUSH rotors with small fingers to throw the water into the Continued from page 1 air, forcing oxygen into the and sand – from the waste. water. After traveling through “When we do this, we the rotary screenings, the are aerating the zone, and wastewater is pumped to it creates an atmosphere for the aeration and oxidation the bugs to break down the “ditch,” which features 18- ammonia in the waste to foot high walls and “bugs” – nitrogen,” Caruso said. lots and lots of microscopic In the oxidation zone of bugs. this process, the nitrogen is broken down into nitrite (NO2) and nitrate (NO3). “The bugs see that ‘O’ as oxygen, and they strip it off before it is released into the atmosphere, so our effluent water is free of nitrites and nitrates. The bugs continue the process of breaking down the chemicals and the organics from the waste as the water moves through the facility. After the water filters through the aeration and oxidation process, it is sent to one of three of the The final effluent (shown above) is 100 percent re-used, with the clean wastewater being facility’s clarifiers, which pumped to spray fields, where it is sprayed on grass fields, or sent to the Georgia-Pacific mill to Shown is a tumbler act as settling basins. in the rotary screening As the mixed liquids be used in the mill’s cooling towers. process that filters and suspended solids sit in “We will turn the mixers pumped to spray fields,is trucked to the facility using the City of Perry’s out masses -- such as the clarifier, any remaining off, allow it to settle, and where it is sprayed on from septic tanks or RV portion of revenues from trash and sand -- from masses settle to the bottom. pump off the water that is grass fields, or sent wastewater to the holding tanks the local one-cent sales tax. the waste. Periodically, employees on top. As it gets thicker, Georgia-Pacific Foleylocated throughout the According to City need to know how much we take a truck out to load Cellulose mill to be used in county. Manager Taylor Brown, These microorganisms, “sludge” has settled to the up the sludge,” Caruso the mill’s cooling towers. The new facility “These major infrastructure or microbes, are among the bottom of the clarifier basin. explained. The new wastewater was funded through a projects are building world’s smallest creatures “We use this tool – a After the water is treatment facility also combination of loans the city’s capacity for and play an important part ‘sludge judge’ to monitor removed, the sludge goes features an onsite laboratory and grants from the U.S. expansion.” in the secondary treatment the amount of sludge to a drying bed before where the wastewater is Department of Agriculture “These are not particularly process of wastewater by settling on the bottom of the being loaded onto the truck monitored throughout (USDA) and DEP. glamorous projects, but “eating” (or consuming) basin,” Caruso said, as he again and taken to the the continuous treatment The funding included they are super necessary. organic matter and filteringdrew water into a 18-foot residuals handling facility process. $6.1 million in grants, as The benefits down the road impurities from the water. transparent tube. – affectionately known as The facility operates on well as a $2.9 million, 38- will come when the tax base “It is a biological process. “You can see how the “the sludge farm.” 16-hour shifts, 365 days per year USDA loan at a 2.75 increases, and that’s when In the aeration and oxidation water is clear at the top, and “We have a pretty year and treats 1.25 million percent annual percentage you can build the fun things ditch, we just provide the on the very bottom, you have interesting truck. It will gallons of wastewater each rate (APR) and a $4.4 -- recreation and parks -- bugs – or micro-organisms a mass of bugs and sludge. inject the sludge into the day, nearly half of which million, 30-year interest-amenities the community -- with oxygen,” Caruso We draw the sludge out and ground, cover it back up and flows from the city’s utilityfree loan from DEP. would like to see in the said. send it back upstairs, so the then grass will grow. The customers. The remainder The loan will be repaid future,” Brown said. This aeration process uses bugs can continue working, residuals basically serve while the clear water runs as a human waste-based Correction: off into the trough to go to fertilizer. The grass pulls the chlorine contact basins,” out other nutrients -- like Siegmeister was arrested in Caruso said. phosphorus -- something Sludge that has been that we do not remove,” through the aeration and Caruso explained. Arizona for bribery, extortion oxidation ditch, as well as Meanwhile, the clear the clarifier basin, multiple wastewater that runs into SIEGMEISTER on May 26, 2020, in the husband’s failure to abide times is eventually sent to the trough of the clarifier circuit court in the Third by the terms of the marital the digesters, which serve to basins is sent to the chlorine Continued from page 1 Judicial Circuit in and for settlement agreement, Ms. remove the water from the contact basin, where it is and protect the interests Suwannee County, Ms. Dykes did not execute a remaining waste mass. disinfected with sodium of his existing clients. Dykes agreed to transfer Quit-Claim Deed and is in “The sludge in the hypochlorite – high test (Siegmeister) shall remain Defendant Real Property to the process of seeking to digester is five timesbleach thicker – that acts as a suspended until he has fully her former husband, Jeffrey set aside the Final Judgment than what is in the aeration disinfectant agent. responded in writing to the A. Siegmeister, upon his and incorporated marital and oxidation ditch. We The chlorine contact official Bar inquiry, and request. settlement agreement want to remove the water, basin is baffled to allowuntil further the order of this “Ms. Dykes subsequently as a result of her former MoonPie Princess so we do not have to haul wastewater a minimum of court.” discovered that her husband husband’s fraud and breach Contestant #5 Carolyn water out to the sludge 15 minutes of contact time Regarding the Live committed fraud in the of his obligations. Ms. Grace Flaherty is the farm,” Caruso explained. as the bleach circulates Oak farm, Dykes hasdissolution filed proceedings Dykes remains a record title daughter of Britany The digesters have through the water. claim of ownership interest and he has since breached owner of the Defendant Real Flaherty and Chris mixers, which are used to The final effluent is 100 in the property, asserting the terms of the marriage Property,” Dykes’ claim of Floyd, and Tyler and separate the water from the percent re-used, with the that, “Pursuant to a marital settlement agreement. ownership states. Ashley Price. sludge. clean wastewater being settlement agreement filed As a result of her former “In addition, Jeffrey Siegmeister abandoned the home, allowed it to fall into a state of disrepair and failed to make mortgage, insurance and tax payments. As a result of Jeffrey Siegmeister’s failure to meet his obligations with regard to both Ms. Dykes and the Defendant Real Property, Ms. Dykes has moved back into the home and asserts her homestead rights, reinstated the homeowners insurance policy, paid to have the home made habitable and sent payment to the mortgagees,” Dykes claims. In the latest filing in the case on Monday, Dykes was granted a third extension to respond to the forfeiture complaint, as she “remains in continued discussions with the U.S. regarding possible resolution of her claim to the property.” Siegmeister was arrested in Doulan Springs, Ariz., on Feb. 26 -- just two days after a federal grand jury handed down indictments against him and another attorney, M. Michael O’Steen, for bribery and extortion. Siegmeister was also charged with wire fraud and tax fraud. He served as State Attorney for the Third Judicial Circuit – which includes Taylor County – from 2013-19 before abruptly resigning prior to the end of his term. At the time, he cited his pending divorce as the trigger for his resignation. He also faces forfeiture proceedings for allegedly swindling nearly $1 million from from a dead man’s estate. A-3 Perry News-Herald March 26-27, 2021 City charged $131 per year per light City spends over $200,000 per year on street lights STREET LIGHT “It got paved andnever seconded and did not Curtis said. street lights are generally “Not ordinances, just Continued from page 1 developed all down onemove to a vote, as Curtis “So they can do shady located from each other, policies. So, if you can give side, and now the secondsuggested city staff develop stuff on Shady Oaks,” Hall or wording that allows me bullet points of what you $17,000 per month on street side is developing,” Ketringa policy first. joked. city staff to investigate and staff want, I can drop it light fees city-wide. said. “We are talking about Perry Police Department and recommend how into that template and bring “We have a street “So, Duke Energy putsaffecting an entire street full Chief Jamie Cruse many lights are justified it back to the council.” with some houses being the lights up and then weof people, and if you were cautioned the council to depending on “curves in the “I think we went by a 300- developed on it making are responsible for the doing speed bumps, stop develop a policy with road, where stop signs are, foot distance recommended this request, and (City costs?” Mayor Alan Hallsigns or speed limit changes, some mechanism in place driveways, etc.” by FDOT, but to cover Public Works Director) asked. we would typically give to prevent the city from “It is a long, straight ourselves we need a policy,” Chester (McAfee) has a “Yes, and they charge noticeus and allow them all a “blowing its budget” if road,” Ketring commented. Hall said. cost estimate,” Staffney $131.00 per year per light,”chance to provide input at a numerous residents request “We are talking about all “The last rash of these said, adding, “Once they McAfee replied. “This willmeeting first,” Curtis said. street lights. roads and having a uniform (street lights) was before (street lights) are in, it is be an additional $663 “Some per people out there may “Maybe I am just policy in the future,” Curtis any of you all were here,” pretty much a forever kind year for these lights.” like dark shady oaks. So ignorant, but I thought we replied. Staffney said. of thing.” “Basically, the city before is voting to go spend a provided street lights if “I thought we already had “I would like to hear from Staffney relayed that paying $250,000 per yearbunch of money, you may you lived within the city,” a policy,” Hampton stated. others on this street to see if Brown suggested the city for street lights right now,”want to make it part of your Councilwoman Shirlie Staffney explained that they want it (lights),” Hall develop an official policy Staffney told the council.policy to provide notice to Hampton said. the city’s policy “was not said. detailing how requests “I believe the council affectedput landowners and “We pay for them, but I written down anywhere,” “Let us do a policy first, for street lights would be a moratorium on new streethold a public meeting.” think it is a good policy to adding that Curtis has been and then we can do a census handled, as well as using lights for a while due toKetring the stated that he ask all the residents first,” helping “get us on track,” by of that street if that is in the Florida Department of costs,” McAfee said. had received two requests Hall replied. compiling and writing down policy,” Staffney suggested. Transportation (FDOT) Staffney suggested thefor street lights from When asked by Ketring, policies as they are pulled On a motion by guidelines to help determinecity consider placing threelandowners who have built, McAfee said the city would from the city’s minutes. Councilwoman Venita how far apart the street lights lights on Shady or Oak are building, houses send a survey to all residents “About two years ago Woodfaulk and second should be placed. Lane for now – one atalong each the road. of Shady Oak Lane asking you tasked me with going by Ketring, the council “Chester has looked at end and one in the middle – “It may be unanimous, them to mail back their through all existing policy voted 4-0 in favor or staff the street and says it couldand possibly add two others but there could also be just preference to City Hall. resolutions buried in the developing a street light use five lights if we go later.with those two, while others who Curtis suggested the minutes and putting them request policy and bringing the recommended 300 feet “Taylor asked, and I live along the road may say survey be in the policy, as all in one uniform policy back a proposed draft at the spacing,” Staffney said. would suggest, that wethey liked it as it is now,” well as a minimum distance resolution,” Curtis said. next meeting. Ketring explained that establish an official policy at Shady Oaks Lane wasthe next meeting,” Staffney previously known as said, adding that individual Landry Road and runs fromhomeowners can contactKnowles: Jury process ‘worked a neighborhood street nearDuke Energy directly and Plantation Road and dead-get their own security lights ends into Landry Road,“like I do at my house.” which connects to Old Dixie When Hall asked for really the well to keep people safe’ Highway, adding, “it usedcouncil’s direction, Ketring to be a two-rut dirt road madeto a motion to install the COURTS the juror’s presence, jurors case Tuesday morning, noting that their presence nowhere with nothing onfive lights. Continued from page 1 would be sent to the jury before the proceedings was the reason the trial had it.” However, the motion was room and then recalled. paused for lunch. After thebeen resolved. jury selection (knownHowever, since social break, the attorneys and According to Clerk of as voir dire), eventuallydistancing would not be Judge Blue held severalCourt Gary Knowles, the reducing the number possible to in the jury room, conferences in the judge’sin-person jury trial was eight. Those selected anyjurors time the attorneys chambers, eventually successful. were asked to returnneeded to tothe speak privatelyjoined by Knowles. “We were able to get all courthouse on Tuesday,with the judge during theAfterwards, Judge Blue 25 prospective jurors in March 23, for the trial,trial. they would insteadreturned to his seat andthe courtroom and keep The trial was held in the leave the room and enterannounced to the jury thatsocial distancing. I thought second-floor courtroom, the judge’s chambers the to case had been resolved,the process worked really again with social distancing discuss the issue at handand their service was nowell to keep people safe maintained. under the new post-COVIDlonger needed. and provide an opportunity Prior to COVID-19, if procedures. He again thanked thefor a jury trial,” Knowles attorneys and the judge The state presented its jurors for their service,said. needed to speak outside Want the vaccine? Call DOH: 584-5087 According to the Florida Department of Health, 3,895 people in Taylor County has received at VACCINE least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine through Continued from page 1 Wednesday, March 24. to all Floridians by May 1. The first vaccination Attorney: ‘We’re governed clinic available to those 40 and older will be Friday, by the insurance company’ April 2, at Forest Capital Hall. To make a vaccination LAKEY governed by the insuranceappointment with DOH- Continued from page 1 company.” Taylor, call (850) 584-5087. Commissioner Jim Vaccines are also to apply for employment Moody made a motion available by appointment with the board. Should to approve the settlementonly at the local CVS, he apply, we would beagreement. Newman located at 105 W. Hampton free to not consider hisseconded, and the measureSprings Avenue, as well as application. passed 4-0. CommissionerWinn Dixie, located at 2057 “Mr. Lakey would be Jamie English was notS. Byron Butler Parkway, permitted to submit a letter present at the meeting. both in Perry. of resignation,” Bishop added. Under the agreement, Lakey agrees to withdraw all claims against the county in the Circuit Court of Taylor County, as well as an ongoing case before the Florida Commission on Human Relations. “I don’t know if you remember or not, but he filed a complaint citing gender discrimination, and also this lawsuit had gender discrimination in it,” Bishop said. After outlining the rest of the agreement, Bishop said, “Understand, we’re A-4 Perry News-Herald March 26-27, 2021 Religion

By Sarah Hall Submit to God’s will

Follow His example of humility Calvary Baptist • Install an outlet receptacle for the The season leading up to Easter, called baptistry television. Lent, is considered by many one of the Calvary Baptist Church will hold a work • Fix accordion partition in fellowship holiest times on the Christian calendar. day this Saturday, March 27, starting at hall. It’s traditionally been a time of 8 a.m. • Pressure wash where needed. Members are asked to bring appropriate denying self and fixing our eyes on Jesus • Fix the gutter on the south side of in anticipation of Good Friday and Easter tools needed to complete the following sanctuary. Sunday. tasks: • Install new sign lights. This Lenten season, let me encourage • Remove shrubs/bushes along the side you with the truth found in 1 Peter 5:6, of the building on playground. which says... • Check and replace light bulbs in all First Baptist “Humble yourselves, therefore, under rooms. First Baptist Church will hold a church the mighty hand of God so that at the • Put together children’s department work day Saturday, March 27, from 9 a.m. proper time He may exhalt you.” things that are in the hall outside of the to noon. The miracle of Christ’s life, death and Awana store. The main tasks will include spreading resurrection is that while He was still • Tighten and caulk men’s handicap sink mulch and pressure washing the campus. fully God, He was also fully human just in sanctuary. Six pressure washing machines are needed. like you and me. So as we look ahead to the celebration of His death and resurrection, my prayer is that each of us would follow his example of humility today. Woman’s History Month Salute: Submit yourself to God’s will and Irene Richardson Fews purpose for your life. Put others first. And live each day in full anticipation of at Taylor County High School. I missed the glory you’ll receive in eternity. less than 30 days of work during my The hares & the frogs tenure. The hares were so persecuted by the I taught business education, ninth other beasts, they did not know where to grade English and one semester of ninth go. grade science. As soon as they saw a single animal Teaching science was a challenge for approach them, off they used to run. me. Therefore, we did a lot of reading One day they saw a troop of wild and answered the questions at the end of horses stampeding about, and in quite a each chapter. I was afraid of most of the panic, all the hares scuttled off to a lake animals, and I didn’t want the students to nearby, determined to drown themselves know about my fear. rather than live in such a continued state They were curious and wanted to know of fear. when were they going to dissect some of But, just as soon as they got near the animals. I knew they would have a the bank of the lake, a troop of frogs, science teacher the following semester, frightened in their turn by the approach and I told them that next semester they of the hares, scuttled off and jumped into would be able to dissect. They appeared the water. to be satisfied. “Truly,” said one of the hares, “things After retiring in 1995, I decided to are not so bad as they seem.” plant a garden. For a couple of years, Food distribution April 1 There is always, always someone I was able to gather a small portion of Second Harvest will hold a drive-thru food distribution at Loughridge worse off than yourself. what I planted. Birds and other animals Park on Thursday, April 1, starting at 10 a.m. Distribution will be held on Wise words ate most of it. I gave up planting a garden. a first-come, first-serve basis. “The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, There was a program at Jerkins and my deliverer: my God, my strength, Community Center designed for young in whom I will trust.” (Psalm 18:2) people who did not complete high school Obituary I’m going to LEARN how to love and I was asked to tutor them in basic Margaret Louise and moved to Perry “Buck” McLeod (Loretta); everybody. math. I continued tutoring until the soon thereafter. and nephews, Joe and Mike God ALWAYS keeps his promises. program ended. McLeod Garrett She loved and was Murphy. Jesus in my soul When I didn’t have anything to do, I Memorial services for active in the youth group at Margaret is survived Oh, it was Jesus – yes, it was Jesus. decided to get my exercise by walking Margaret McLeod Garrett First Baptist Church in by: a daughter, Carole It was Jesus in my soul. daily, or as often as I could. That was one will be held Saturday, Perry. Garrett Dodd (Royce); For I have touched the hem of His of the best decisions I ever made. I have March 27, at Burns Funeral Margaret was preceded granddaughters, Shelley garment; and his Blood has made me been walking about 20 years, and I really Home Chapel, beginning at in death by: her husband Ford (Michael) and Sommer whole. enjoy it. noon. of 33 years, Tom; parents, Clayman (Jeremy); and Birthday shout-outs I am a member of Triumph the Church Margaret went home to Andrew A. and Ira Barker great-grandchildren, Meg Happy belated birthday wishes to and Kingdom of God in Christ, where I her Lord and Savior Jesus McLeod; sisters, Myrtis and Kate Clayman, and Roderick Morgan Sr., March 18. serve as secretary. There are also times Christ on Feb. 23, 2021, at Mohawk (Hiawatha), Daniel and Caleb Ford; In bereavement when I do custodial work and whatever the age of 95, in Arlington, Frances Chapman (Bill), along with numerous nieces The families of the late Jonathan is needed to be done. Texas. Mildred “Dickie” Byrd and nephews. McKnight are in our thoughts and Each year I attend a national Margaret was born on (Tack), and Ava McGee prayers. convention in a different city, and July 8, 1925, in Greenville (Bob); brother, Andrew L. Prayer focus sometimes a different state. Because of Please keep these friends in your the coronavirus, the meetings have been prayers: Leslie Davis, Willie Mae canceled. Gadsden (Tampa), Mary Alice Williams, I am also a member of the Noon Day Card of thanks Shawanda Massey, Ron King, Rhaji Prayer Band. We meet daily at a different Porter, Annie Jones and Paula Graham church at 12 noon. This has also been He will be missed not (first lady of Antioch M.B. Church, thepostponed because of the virus. only by his blood family, Rev. Tony O. Graham, pastor). I am a member of the Taylor Retired but he will also be missed by We salute Women’s Educators Association, Florida Retired many of you and History Month Educators Association and National his extended family. This week, we salute retired teacher Retired Educators Association. Godspeed. Irene Richardson Fews: I am a member of the local and national The family of Margaret Louise I worked for the Taylor County School AARP. Jeffery Garner McLeod Garrett District for 33 years. Eight of those In 2015, I was inducted into the Taylor years were at Jerkins High and 25 were County Educators’ Hall of Fame.

Blessed is the Jeffery Garner king who comes Garner The family of Jeffery in the name of Garner would like to express sincere gratitude for the many kind acts the Lord! shown during his demise, -Luke 19:38 including prayers, words of condolences, food, beverages, cards, flowers Make Church Going a Habit and more.

Local churches are invited to share information about upcoming Easter services by e-mailing [email protected]

Sports A-5 Perry News-Herald March 26-27, 2021 Dunwoody continues to make a splash Barbados’ top junior with a new national record Caribbean Swimming breaststroke swimmer in the 15-17 200 meter Federation) gold medallists Nkosi Dunwoody has medley relay. and record-holders. made a big splash, as he At age 15, Dunwoody “My main focus is to recently accepted a four- was the youngest member compete for the UIndy year scholarship to the of the Barbados team at swim and dive team to University of Indianapolis, the 2018 Central American my fullest potential and in Indianapolis, Indiana, and Caribbean Games in improve my swimming where he will compete on Barranquilla, Columbia, career. I would also like the Greyhounds swim team. where the team made it to to continue my interest in Dunwoody is the son the ‘A’ relay finals. He alsoentrepreneurial studies.” of Wayne Dunwoody of had a ‘B’ final performance Dunwoody said he was Perry and Adua Kinch of in his individual event. extremely grateful to his Barbados and the grandson Dunwoody also large support team for of Mr & Mrs. Henry & represented the island helping him on the path to Delores Jay (of Perry) at the 2018 FINA World success. and Mr. William Mauesby Championship. “I would like to thank (Atlanta, Ga.) as well as Mr. Nkosi Dunwoody recently accepted a four-year scholarship to the As a result of his strong Alpha Sharks Swim Club, and Mrs. Jeffery and Ethnie University of Indianapolis, where he will compete on the swim team. academic performance and my colleagues, my coaches, Kinch (Barbados). his outstanding swimming my friends and my family As a member of the Last year, at the The following year Nkosi Age Group Record in the record, Nkosi received for supporting me through Barbados Alpha Swim Barbados Aquatic Sports dominated the boys’ 11- 50M breast stroke and academic offers from the this entire journey, as they Club, Dunwoody is one of Association’s Short Course 12 age group at the 2015 returned to the CARIFTA University of Nottingham, never turned their back on the leading male swimmers National Swimming CARIFTA games in the Games in 2017 to break the the University of Plymouth me, they never gave up on the island and has Championships, Dunwoody Cayman Islands with a national age group record and the University of on me and never stopped successfully represented won the 15-17 year-old haul of seven gold medals again while capturing fiveStirling, but he accepted the showing their unwavering Barbados at local, regional Boys’ 50-meter breaststroke and one silver. He also set gold medals. offer from the University of support,” Dunwoody stated. and international swimming in 30.74 seconds. a new CARIFTA record, That year he also won Indianapolis, where he will “It was very difficult, but meets. His first overseas a national age group two gold medals and be pursuing Entrepreneurial where there’s a will, there’s The 18-year-old St. competition was at the record and won his age five silver medals Studies at andthe compete on a way. I got a lot stronger Michael School star age of eight at the 2011 group championships in a CCCAN Championships the university’s swim throughout this second competitor will leave the Goodwill Games in performance that earned and broke an 18-year-old team. lockdown, and I am thrilled island in August to pursue Trinidad and Tobago. him the coveted “Landon national age group record “It is such a pleasurable to be back in the pool. I a major in entrepreneurship He later made hisVon Kanel” first trophy. by two seconds. achievement to receive a would like to say thank you after winning 17 CARIFTA appearance at CARIFTA In 2016, at the Caribbean In 2018 he competed at scholarship to study and to every single person and (Caribbean Free Trade Swimming Games in 2014 Islands Swimming the Union American De continue my swimming a special thank you to the Association) aquatic in Aruba, where he won a Championships (CISC) in Natacion (UNAN) games career at such an outstanding ones who never gave up on championship medals, bronze medal in the 200M the Bahamas, Dunwoody in Coral Springs, Florida, school. This means quite me,” he said. including 11 gold. breaststroke. broke the 13-14 National where his team placed third a bit to me to see that all Dunwoody said his goal of the early mornings of in the future is to qualify for training before school, and the Olympic Games. then proceeding to gym “I don’t want to specify Lady Bulldogs fall to Lafayette, 4-3 right after school and then which Olympic Games I going to swim again right would like to attend, but I The Taylor County High impressive outings on the Taylor County will time. after gym have paid off,” hope it will be in the near School (TCHS) Lady mound, as Shiver racked host Florida High tonight Prior to their game against Dunwoody said during a future. I would consider it Bulldogs’ softball team fell up four strikeouts during (Friday) beginning at 6 p.m. Lincoln, Florida High had a telephone interview with a mission accomplished. to Lafayette County in a 4-3 her four innings of pitching, Florida High was slated record of 8-2 and was riding the Barbados Nation’s I’m not fully content with nail-biter this past Tuesday, while Carter recorded a to play Lincoln last night a six-game winning streak, Saturday Sun. all of my accomplishments. after the teams were tied 2-2 strikeout and only allowed (Thursday), but results were while outscoring opponents “It’s also only the I am still working for heading into the final inning. four hits in her three innings not available as of press 89-31. beginning of a new journey more success, whether it Lafayette scored two runs on the hill. and I’m very thankful be qualification times or in the top of the first inning The Lady Bulldogs were for the opportunity,” records. to claim an early lead, while limited to only four hits Dunwoody said. “I am confident with my Taylor County managed to in the game, which were Keaton Beach “When I arrive at the university of choice and score once in the bottom of picked up by: Brianna university, I will be training their exceptional swim the inning to trail 2-1. Reams, Rebecca Shoaff, Fishing Report and competing on the same team and performance in Both teams held the other Macy Dean and Shiver. team as some of the most the NCAA. I would tell scoreless until the sixth Reams and Dean knocked outstanding swimmers in anyone to just never give inning, when the Lady in one run each, while Shoaff Trout should be on fire the Caribbean and Central up, keep working hard and Bulldogs scored a run to tie led the Lady Bulldogs in American region, including prohibit negative thoughts the game up at 2-2 headed runs scored with two. the CARIFTA and CCCAN from terminating your into the seventh and final Reams scored Taylor’s with warming weather (Central American and dreams,” he said. inning. third run in the narrow loss By PAT MCGRIFF Assassin’s — most on Lafayette came out firing against a talented Lafayette [email protected] Stinky Pink, but quite a and scored two runs in the County squad that is now Trout are in recovery few nice ones on Panhandle Bulldogs are now 5-6 top of the last inning, which 8-3 on the season. mode, as evidenced by my Moon and Butt Naked color was just enough to edge TCHS had a 7-4 record trips Monday, Tuesday and patterns. out Taylor County, who headed into their game Wednesday. Try as I did, we couldn’t after loss to Madison managed to push one run yesterday (Thursday) We started by catching catch a fish in under 4.0 feet The Taylor County High Weatherly, Ajari Harris and across in the bottom half of against Wakulla Christian bait Sunday in miserable of water and none in over School (TCHS) Bulldogs’ Rhett Borklund recorded the 7th inning. Academy, but results were weather and the Gulf water 5.0 feet. We also caught baseball team fell to the one hit each. Adrianna Carter and not available as of press temps hovering around 58- three reds measuring up to visiting Madison County Wiles and Weatherly Hannah Shiver both had time. 59 degrees. 29 inches, keeping only one Cowboys this past Tuesday scored the Bulldogs’ two Monday morning saw (a 24-inch redfish), which by a final score of 8-2. runs against Madison 59-degree water temps ate an Intruder Hex Spoon The loss was Taylor’s County. again, and the bite was slow by Precision Tackle. sixth of the season, as the The Bulldogs are slated FEED TIMES (at least for keepers) as We also caught one of the Bulldogs fell to 5-6 overall. to host Liberty County my charter — a father and keeper reds on Bert’s redfish Taylor County racked up tonight (Friday) beginning Minor Major Minor Major daughter team from Indiana spinnerbait. Bert makes a six hits against Madison, at 6 p.m. -- managed six keeper trout variety of freshwater and led by Garrett Mullins with Liberty County defeated 26 5:38 AM 10:46 AM 5:00 PM ---- with 20-plus shorts. saltwater fishing lures.two. the Bulldogs prior to spring 27 6:16 AM 11:12 PM 6:06 PM 11:38 AM We caught our fish on Check him out at Bert’s Jigs Tucker Wiles, Andrew break, 10-2. live pinfish under Back Bay and Things on Facebook. 28 6:53 AM 12:03 AM 7:14 PM 12:29 PM Thunders in 3.5 – 4.5 feet The Gulf water of water. Try as I might, we temperature was 69 degrees 29 7:28 AM 12:55 AM 8:22 PM 1:21 PM couldn’t catch a fish in less late Wednesday afternoon, 30 8:06 AM 1:48 AM 9:31 PM 2:15 PM than 3.5 feet of water. so this weekend should On Tuesday, I had Don be “off the chain” as the 31 8:46 AM 2:42 AM 10:42 PM 3:10 PM Garner and his son-in-law kids say……or as I say 1 9:31 AM 3:39 AM ---- 4:08 PM Justin (oops, I forgot his “GREAT!” last name) originally from 2 11:52 PM 4:38 AM 10:21 AM 5:08 PM Paducah, Kentucky and now residing in Tennessee. We caught our limit of 10 trout, with Don releasing TIDE TABLES #10 (a 24-inch sow) as we had a 22.5-inch trout in the F 26 High 12:34 AM 3.1 Tu30 High 3:44 AM 3.6 box already. 26 Low 7:53 AM -0.3 30 Low 10:00 AM 0.4 We caught two of our keepers on plugs, two on 26 High 1:50 PM 3.3 30 High 3:27 PM 3.8 Assassin Stinky Pink 5-inch 26 Low 8:00 PM 0.6 30 Low 10:42 PM -0.7 shads and the balance on Sa27 High 1:24 AM 3.4 W 31 High 4:32 AM 3.4 live pinfish under Back Bays 27 Low 8:27 AM -0.3 31 Low 10:29 AM 0.7 from 3.5 – 4.5 feet of water. 27 High 2:15 PM 3.4 31 High 3:52 PM 3.8 The water temperature made it up to 65 late in the 27 Low 8:39 PM 0.2 31 Low 11:27 PM -0.7 day. Su28 High 2:11 AM 3.6 Th 1 High 5:23 AM 3.0 Wednesday, I had my pal 28 Low 8:59 AM -0.2 1 Low 10:57 AM 1.0 Bert Deener of Waycross, 28 High 2:39 PM 3.6 1 High 4:19 PM 3.8 Ga. out and we fished 28 Low 9:19 PM -0.2 F 2 Low 12:19 AM -0.6 artificials only to land 37 trout (Bert counts every M 29 High 2:57 AM 3.7 2 High 6:22 AM 2.6 fish) with 17 shorts and 20 29 Low 9:30 AM 0.1 2 Low 11:26 AM 1.3 keepers. 29 High 3:03 PM 3.7 2 High 4:49 PM 3.6 We caught three on 29 Low 9:59 PM -0.5 plugs and the balance on

A-6 Perry News-Herald Steinhatchee/Beaches March 26-27, 2021 Construction begins! New marina ‘well underway’ By DEBRA BUTLER construction materials Construction of the during the pandemic new Steinhatchee Marina has bumped the original at Deadman Bay is well projected completion date underway. by a couple of months. According to Jody Adjustments have been Griffis, the buildingmade couldto the planned square possibly be completed by footage, which means three August 2021. ➟ Difficulty in obtaining Please see page 11

Construction of the new Steinhatchee Marina at Deadman’s Bay is expected to be complete by August 2021. Tide Swamp Unit selected for FWC WildQuest event Steinhatchee’s Tide (six feet) cannot be met. Swamp Unit will serve Florida has one of the as the Big Bend Wildlife nation’s largest systems Management Area (WMA) of state-managed wildlife for the Florida Fish and lands. Wildlife Conservation The WMA system Commission’s (FWC)includes firstmore than six Florida WildQuest event. million acres managed From May 1 to May 9, primarily for wildlife FWC is hosting the firstconservation and nature- Florida WildQuest, a unique based public use. scavenger hunt experience The areas featured in on wildlife management Florida WildQuest are areas throughout the state. FWC lead areas, which are Florida residents and primarily managed by the visitors are encouraged to FWC. grab their mobile device Other WMAs, called and join a wild adventure cooperative areas, are with missions designed to primarily managed by help people discover some partner agencies or of Florida’s best spots to organizations. The FWC see wildlife and enjoy the maintains, enhances and outdoors. restores native natural WildQuest players habitats for the benefit of all ages will have of plant and animal opportunities to learn about populations as well as for and explore the FWC’s the people of Florida. The lead WMAs during the public can use the WMA event. Participants who system for a variety of register and earn at least recreation opportunities 2,000 points on one of the including hunting, fishing scavenger hunts can enter and wildlife viewing a drawing for wilderness- opportunities. inspired prizes including a To learn more about pair of binoculars and a field Florida’s WMA system, guide set! Players can go visit MyFWC.com/WMAs. on the “Master WildQuest” or “WildQuest Jr.” at any lead WMA or visit one of the featured areas that will have area specific quests: • Big Bend Wildlife Management Area, Tide Swamp Unit in Steinhatchee. • Fred C. Babcock/ Cecil M. Webb Wildlife Management Area in Punta Gorda. • Chinsegut Wildlife and Environmental Area in Brooksville. Guana River Wildlife Management Area in Ponte Vedra Beach. • W. Corbett Wildlife Management Area in West Palm Beach. • Kirk Edwards Wildlife and Environmental Area in Tallahassee. • Tosohatchee Wildlife Management Area in Christmas. To join a scavenger hunt, players will need a mobile device and the free GooseChase app. For more information and instructions visit FloridaNatureTrackers. com. Florida WildQuest is designed to be a safe, socially distanced outdoor event for individuals and small groups. When interacting with staff and other visitors, masks should be worn if social distancing guidelines

Community A-7 Perry News-Herald March 26-27, 2021

Whether helping food bank distributions or mass vaccination clinics, CERT members are also ready to answer the call. Volunteers shown here include: (left to right) Tonya (Lesa) Griffin, Emergency Management Assistant Director J.W. Louk, Susie Jolley, Pat Straub and Cissy Jacobs. Join CERT today! New classes start April 6

Classes for new recruits suppress small fires, conduct “No prior experience for Taylor County’s light search and rescue, or training is necessary, Community Response radio communications and and there is no fee for the Team (CERT) will begin provide emergency medical program,” Anderson said. Tuesday, April 6, from aid and psychological Classes will be held on 6-8 p.m. at the Emergency comfort to their neighbors,” Tuesday and Thursday Operations Center (EOC) Director Kristy Anderson evenings from 6-8 p.m. located next to the Taylor said. “There will be a disaster County Jail. During the four-week drill at the end of the “CERT is a ready group training period that begins class to test your skills,” of organized and trained in April, participants Anderson said. volunteers. When disaster will receive instruction, To register, please strikes, CERT volunteers practice and learn how to call the Taylor County spring into action: they take work as a team in their Sheriff’s Office Division of care of themselves, their neighborhoods in the event Emergency Management at family, check on neighbors, of an emergency. (850) 838-3575. Want to join Taylor County’s CERT? New classes begin April 6. Adventures start HERE! Day camp registration begins Thursday Parents are reminded Tharpe said. recreational activities, of registration. that online registration for Registration for summer and most day-long camps Participating youth must upcoming 4-H summer day camps will be online will feature daily fieldbe five years old by Sept. day camps opens next only through Eventbrite trips and swimming. 1, 2020, to be eligible for week, on Thursday, (http://www.eventbrite. Participating children Cloverbud Camps. Hodges awarded ‘Good April 1, at 9 a.m. com/o/taylor-county- should bring their lunch Drop off and pick up “Day camps provide 4-h-9856037675). each day during camp, for all camps will be Citizen Scholarship’ your child with the chance “Assistance will be preferably in a small held at the Taylor County The Fort San Luis Chapter of National Society to develop character, available for registration at cooler,” she said. Extension Office located at Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) valuable life skills, make our office,” Tharpe said. Registration will be Forest Capital Hall (unless recognized award winners from around the area, new friends and discover “Day camps will held on a first-come,otherwise first- noted). new interests,” 4-H be highlighted with serve basis, and must be For more information, including one Taylor County student, at its virtual Extension Agent II Abbey various educational and paid in full at the time call (850) 838-3508. chapter meeting held in February. Taylor County High School student Dakota Hodges tied for second place for the “Good Citizen Scholarship” award. Delaynee Cobb from Liberty County High School also received the award, and first-place winner was Spencer Gibbs from Maclay School. The Good Citizenship Scholarship Award recognizes and rewards individuals “who possess the good citizenship qualities of dependability, service, leadership and patriotism in their homes, schools and communities.” “We couldn’t be more proud of this year’s winners of our DAR Awards,” said Lindy Forehand Vickers, Regent of the Fort San Luis Chapter. “These remarkable people have worked hard to make a difference, and through their efforts, energy and compassion have made the community better for us all.” The DAR Historic Preservation Medal was presented to Lonnie Bain Mann of Tallahassee. The Preservation Medal is the most prestigious preservation award DAR presents to individuals, with fewer than 30 awarded nationwide annually. Mann was recognized for more than 20 years as an outstanding volunteer working in historic preservation and protecting Florida’s archaeological resources. He is a respected member of the historic preservation and archaeology community in the Florida Panhandle/Big Bend region, as well as at the state level. He has participated in extensive archaeological field work and public education.

A-8 Perry News-Herald Looking Back March 26-27, 2021 Women in Taylor History Remember when... Colson was state’s oldest resident in 1985 Grocery shopping In addition to holding the Colson was also recognized Born in Perry on Nov. 25, late Mashack M. Taylor. in Bean’s Yard distinction of being one of as Florida’s oldest resident 1871, Mary was raised on a Later, she married the Taylor County’s longest- when she died at the age of farm. late P.H. (Peter) Colson and Bean’s Yard. living citizens, Mary Jane 113 in 1985. She and one of her they had five children. brothers, Wallace Thomas, In her early 20s, The other day, sharecropped, and she she joined Springhill my shopping cart plowed for several years. Missionary Baptist Church, was still empty She also rived boards to where she remained a make shingles and made member for more than 90 after I spent a fences out of pine and years. half-hour roaming cypress blocks, while also After surviving three the aisles of a attending school. strokes, Mary took to her local grocery store She came from a family easy chair. of eight, and was the Family and friends trying to figure out By Anthony White oldest and only surviving gathered on Thanksgiving what I wanted for child. every year to say a special dinner. Her mother lived to be prayer “thanking the Lord 96 years old, her father died for being good to her and A friend, who was also shopping for at 109, and her uncle lived asking him to continue dinner, stopped me and asked, “Can’t to be 100. watching over her and figure out what you want?” After she, her mother giving me the strength I and brother left the farm, need to do my job taking “No,” I responded. “I’m tired of the Mary began doing laundry care of here,” her daughter, same old same old, and I want something work for a living and saved B.D., said. different.” money to buy the house Mary’s recipe for “I know what you mean,” the friend where she and one of her longevity: “Get your rest,” daughters, Bernetha (B.D.) she said, “Serve the Lord. replied as she walked away. Williams lived. Work hard. And take good Trying to figure out what’s for dinner Mary Jane Colson, whose mother was a slave She was married to the care of yourself.” wasn’t always this hard, especially when and whose father lived to be 109, died on Sept. late Rev. J.D. Taylor, and Mary died on Sept. 22, 22, 1985, at the age of 113. the couple had one son, the 1985. I was growing up in my grandparents’ house. My grandfather didn’t care much for grocery stores. A glance at the past He would drive my grandmother or my mother to the grocery store, but I can who on a full-time basis High School auditorium through five innings. conducts the jail ministry at with 640 members in In the seventh inning, only remember a couple of times that he the Taylor County Jail, jails attendance. Jefferson managed to load got out of the car and went inside. of surrounding counties, the bases, but Bulldog And then, he found a chair or bench and Mayo Correctional third baseman Darrin Institution,” said Chapter Simmons thwarted the in the front of the store and took a seat President Cheryl Gregory, situation when he made a while my grandmother shopped. who presented the plaque to diving stab of a Tiger line The reason my grandfather didn’t care Howell. drive. “Miss Annie is kind, for grocery stores is because he didn’t PERRY NEWS- generous and dedicated,” really need them. HERALD said Gregory, “as she goes STUDENTS JUMP He had his own grocery store – Bean’s March 28, 1986 about seeing to the physical, THREE HOURS Yard. spiritual and emotional On March 26 and 27, HAPPY EASTER needs of the prisoners, 1986, Gladys Morse My grandfather’s name was Willie Taylor County was in full who she refers to as ‘her Elementary School was White, but everyone called him Bean. bloom on March 28, 1986, boys.’ Without hesitation, involved in the March of While my grandmother loved shopping with dogwood blossoms, Miss Annie always puts the Dimes “Jump Rope for for dinner at Winn-Dixie and Piggly symbolizing springtime needs of her boys and their Heart.” and the underlying Easter families before herself.” Natassia Thomas The students collected Wiggly, my grandfather preferred themes of rebirth and money and pledged to gathering dinner from his garden, chicken resurrection. SHE’S A WINNER! BASEBALL TEAM jump rope for a certain coop, pig pen or rabbit cages. Natassia Thomas, the GRABS SECOND period of time in return for STRAIGHT WIN a donation to the March of If he didn’t gather dinner from our JAILHOUSE granddaughter of Charles Thomas, was the youth The Taylor County High Dimes. yard, he brought it home from his trips PREACHER IS ‘LADY grand prize winner at School baseball team True to their pledge, the to the woods to grunt earthworms, which OF THE YEAR’ Buckeye’s annual credit grabbed its second straight children jumped rope for Jail missionary Annie union meeting. She won a win in late March 1986, three hours on March 26, he sold as fish bait. Howell was named “Lady Commodore 64 computer. shutting out Jefferson 1986, and again on March My grandmother wasn’t always of the Year of 1986” by the The adult grand prize County 3-0. 27, 1986. happy with my grandfather’s dinner Mu Omega Chapter of Beta winner was Becky Houck. For the second straight When the jumping was choices. Sigma Phi at a tea held in The 30th annual game, the 3-9 Bulldogs over, participating students “I’m tired, and I know these children are late March 1986 at the meeting of the Buckeye got a strong pitching were served refreshments Perry Woman’s Club. Employment Federal Credit performance, this time provided by Hardee’s tired of eating all this wild food – coons, “Miss Annie Howell Union was held March 18, from David Upshaw, who Restaurant and Tom’s squirrels, deer and fish” my grandmother is an outstanding lady, 1986, at the Taylor County allowed only two hits Foods. would tell him. “They want chicken and Editor’s Note: “Floridiana: Stories from Florida’s Remarkable pork chops.” Past” is an ongoing series of articles that uses the extensive “Then hold on,” he’d respond. “I ain’t collections of the State Archives and State Library of Florida to got time to butcher a pig, but I can wring illustrate the rich and varied history of our state. one or two chicken necks for you.” “I don’t want a yard chicken,” my grandmother would respond. “I’m talking about chicken from Winn-Dixie Florida’s ‘strawberry schools’ or Piggly Wiggly!” Remember those late Depending on your age summer job – anything but “Chicken is chicken,” my grandfather spring days back in grade and your preferences, sitting still in a classroom. shot back. “What difference does it school when all you you might have spent the There was a time, could think about was time swimming, taking however, when some make?” the approach of summer family trips, or earning a Florida students took their “It makes a lot of difference,” my vacation? little spending money at a vacation much earlier in the grandmother answered. “The store’s year, from January through chicken is processed and packaged.” March. A number of counties “Give me a plastic bag to put these in Central and South chickens in after I finish plucking the Florida mandated this to feathers and cleaning them, and you’ll accommodate the harvest March 26-27, 2021 schedules for winter fruits have processed chickens.” and vegetables, which My grandmother wasn’t amused. provided a living for small When it came to gathering vegetables family farms. Strawberries were from the garden for dinner, she wasn’t so the main Florida crop hard on my grandfather. requiring this arrangement. If she had a taste for cabbage, he would As a result, schools that pluck a cabbage or two from his garden. operated on the modified Strawberries have April to December calendar If green beans were on the dinner menu, been cultivated in were called “strawberry Florida since the late he gave me and my two brothers each a schools.” 1800s. row to pick. Whatever vegetable was on Strawberries have been my grandmother’s menu -- okra, collard cultivated in Florida since largely confined to large- the late 1800s. They have scale operations with greens, mustard greens -- all we had to do been grown in nearly every hundreds of acres under was walk out to my grandfather’s garden county in the state at one cultivation. Up until about and pick it. time or another, but large- the 1950s, however, family scale sustained strawberry farms dominated the I don’t think I’m going to find what my farming has mainly been industry. taste buds were craving the other day, centered in Hillsborough, In some places, yesterday or today until someone can Polk, Hardee, Bradford, strawberry farming came to give me the directions back to Bean’s Union and Orange counties. define whole communities. These days, commercial ➟ Yard. strawberry farming is Please see page 11

A-9 Perry News-Herald Entertainment March 26-27, 2021 UNDER THE MARQUEE

By MARK VIOLA ‘Boss Level’ is completely absurd, while also absolutely entertaining Last week, I talked quite a bit about one. I’m pretty sure Roy says more in his the eight Academy Award Best Picture narration than he does out loud. nominees. Although I haven’t seen any Directed by Joe Carnahan (“The A-Team,” of them yet, I’m sure they are filled“The with Grey”), this movie knows exactly what artistic filmmaking, meaningful storiesit is,and and it really leans into that absurdity. memorable characters. And, it’s exactly because of its self- “Boss Level” is not one of those movies. It awareness that so many things that would be is a ridiculous, borderline silly flaws in other movies actually action flick about a man who make this more enjoyable. To wakes up every day to a group be sure, they’re still flaws, but of oddball assassins trying to it’s part of the charm. kill him. However, for him, Also helping matters is every day is the same day, a better-than-the-movie- and every day ends with him deserves cast, which includes dying, only to wake up and Noami Watts, Mel Gibson, start over again. Michelle Yeoh and Ken Jeong Yes, this is another -- not to mention a cameo from “Groundhog Day” movie, Rob Gronkowski. Micro-Theater Festival although it’s of a particular Yes, the story is threadbare. vein similar to “Edge of Yes, the characters are Tomorrow,” in which paper-thin (although Roy’s somebody keeps repeating relationship with his son is will stream online free the same day and uses the heartwarming and gives the repetition to figure out the day’s patternsfilm in just enough of an emotional hook that Tallahassee Hispanic was written by Victoria distress: a wedding! This order to not die (or at least not die as fast). we care if he succeeds or not in the end). Yes, Theater will host its third Collado, a young Cuban- play is directed by Leanne In that, “Boss Level” is very much the special effects are mediocre. And yes, the Micro-Theater Festival American artist who lives Hanson and performed by like a video game, where your character dialogue is incredible corny, topped by the virtually on Sunday, in Miami. This play was Mike Herrin and Tiffanykeeps getting killed, so you load up your scene in which the sword-wielding assassin featuring three short plays presented in Spanish as Underwood. This is the save point and try again. An early clue announces that “stuff” is about to get “steel.” written by Hispanic authors part of Microteatro Miami first time the play at willhow be on the nose this movie is going to But, you know what else is true about and which have been early last year. “Mosquita performed in English with be, our main character, Roy Pulver (Frank this movie? It’s a lot of fun. At just 90 or performed around the world. Muerta” is a physical a translation by Alejandra Grillo, “Captain America: Winter Soldier”) so minutes, “Boss Level” doesn’t overstay “Due to current health comedy that tells the story Gutierrez. mentions this exact comparison in the first its welcome and delivers the kind of absurd concerns, this year’s of Jacqueline de France, “The Russian Plan” few minutes during his narration. escapism that I’m craving these days. festival will be online, so a woman whose dreams by Aurora Mateo will be And, speaking of narration, if you don’t The film is rated TV-MA for violence and people around the country of becoming a famous the final play in this year’slike narration, stay far, far away from this language. can watch the festival,” ballerina were cut short festival. Mateo combines organizers said. by a pesky mosquito. She her playwriting with her The performances will now dedicates her life to career as an international be available at www. killing all the mosquitos lawyer. Her play “The this weekend in theaters, tallahasseehispanictheater. in the world. The play is Russian Plan” is a about org) as well as on Facebook directed by Mattie Ward a couple looking for a on streaming and vod at Tallahassee Hispanic and performed by Robin solution to straighten out Theater. Jackson. their problematic teenage “All of the performances “The Union of Maiteson. Maybe the answer is will be free to access and Jose, Inc.” was written the Russian plan. The play online, but we encourage by Almudena Vazquez, is directed by Kevin Carr you to make a donation a Spanish playwright, and performed by Alejandra to the company at screenwriter and director. Gutierrez and Kevin Carr. tallahasseehispanictheater. This play was previously The translation is by Iride org,” organizers said. “As presented as part of the Lamartina-Lens. usual, we are excited to Spanish Microtheater All of these plays will bring the vibrant Hispanic Festival “Teatro por be filmed at the Monticello theater to our community.” Dinero.” In this comedy, Opera House. These are the plays that Maite and Jose, a broke “Don’t miss these will be featured in this couple with no money funny and entertaining year’s festival: to pay their mortgage, performances and support “Mosquita Muerta” come up with the perfect theater in these times of (“The Dead Mosquito”) plan to end their financialcrisis,” organizers said. By MARK VIOLA The movie is rated R Adapted Screenplay. The In Theaters for crude sexual content, movie, which debuted at the “Nobody” is an action pervasive language, some AMC 20 in Tallahassee last Symphony Orchestra comedy starring Bob graphic nudity and drug use. weekend, is now available Odenkirk (“Better Call “Caught by a Wave” on video on demand (VOD). Saul”) as Hutch Mansell, a (“Sulla Stessa Onda”) The film is rated PG-13 mild-mannered man who is an Italian romance for some strong language, to host online concert appears to be a pushover film following a andsummer thematic material. to everybody around adventure under the Sicilian “The Seventh Day” is The Tallahassee him, including his family. sun that soon becomes a a horror film that follows Symphony Orchestra However, he finally snapspainful love story. a renowned exorcist who (TSO) will host an online one night and attacks a The film is not yet rated. teams up with a rookie priest concert featuring pianist Jon group of men harassing a “Seaspiracy” is a for his first day of training. Kimura Parker beginning young woman, opening a documentary that follows As they plunge into their this Saturday, March 27. door to a past he had tried a filmmaker setting outwork, to the lines between The concert, which will very hard to put behind him, document the harm that good and evil blur, and serve as TSO’s season one filled with violence humans do to marine life, their own demons emerge. finale, will be available and old debts. The film is and in the process uncovers The movie is written and beginning at 7:30 p.m., and directed by Ilya Naishuller alarming global corruption. directed by Justin P. Lange those who purchase a ticket (“Hardcore Henry”) with The documentary is not (“The Dark”) and features will be able to view the a script by Derek Kolstad yet rated. a cast that includes Guy concert through April 3. (“John Wick”). The “John “A Week Away” is a Pearce (“Memento”), Keith The program will include Wick” movies are some of musical about troubled David (“21 Bridges”), selections from Mozart’s my favorite action films, teen Will Hawkins (Kevin Steven Lang (“Avatar”) and “Marriage of Figaro”, and “Hardcore Henry” was Quinn, “Bunk’d”), who Vadhir Derbez (“How To Be “Piano Concerto No. 21” one of the most visually has a run-in with the law. a Latin Lover”). and “Symphony No. 35,” unique films of the Given past the choice between The movie is rated R for as well as Shostakovich’s decade, so this one has a lot juvenile detention and a violent content, disturbing “Piano Concerto No. 1” and of potential. Christian summer camp, he images and some language. more. The film is rated R chooses the latter. At first “The Vault” is a crime Household tickets are for strong violence and a fish out of water, Will thriller about Thom (Freddie $25. For more information Jon Kimura Parker bloody images, language begins to learn a week away Highmore, “Bates Motel”), or to purchase tickets, visit throughout and brief drug can really change things, a genius engineering www.tallahasseesymphony. Hall. Parker has performed use. especially when he falls for graduate interested in the org. He was recently named with Doc Severinsen, Netflix camp regular Avery (Bailee Bank of Spain’s safe. More Parker is known for creative partner for the Audra McDonald, Bobby “Bad Trip” is a mix of Madison, “Just Go With It”). specifically, how to break his charisma, infectious Minnesota Orchestra’s McFerrin, Pablo Ziegler scripted buddy comedy The film is not yet rated. in and steal a legendary enthusiasm and dynamic Summer at Orchestra and Sanjaya Malakar. road movie and a real Video on Demand lost treasure said to be held performances. A veteran Hall. He also serves as As a founding member hidden-camera prank show Academy Award Best within it. He develops a plan, of the international concert the artistic director for the of Off the Score, he following also outrageous Picture nominee “The but they will only have 105 stage, he has performed Honens International Piano performed with Stewart misadventures of two buds Father” is a drama about minutes to get it done while regularly in the Berlin Competition and artistic Copeland -- the legendary stuck in a rut who embark an aging man (Anthony the guards are distracted by Philharmonie, Carnegie advisor for the Orcas Island drummer of The Police on a cross-country road Hopkins, “Silence of the the 2010 Football World Hall, London’s South Bank, Chamber Music Festival. -- for the Orcas Island trip to New York City. Lambs”) who refuses Cup final match. The the Sydney Opera House A collaborator in a Chamber Music Festival’s The storyline sets up the all assistance from his movie is directed by Jaume and the Beijing Concert wide variety of styles, 20th anniversary season. shocking real pranks. The daughter (Olivia Colman, Balagueró (“[REC]”), and movie stars Eric André and “The Favourite”) as he the cast also includes Famke Let us know about your event! is directed by Kitao Sakurai, begins losing his faculties. Janssen (“X-Men”), Liam who directed “The Eric The film picked up Cunninghamsix (“Game of If you have an event you would like included in our André Show.” The cast also nominations, including Thrones”) and Sam Riley entertainment calendar of events, please call us at includes Lil Rel Howery Best Picture, Best Actor (“Maleficent”). (“Tag”) and Tiffany Haddish(Hopkins), Best Supporting The movie is rated R for 850-584-5513 or e-mail [email protected]. (“Like a Boss”). Actress (Colman) and Best language. A-10 Perry News-Herald March 26-27, 2021

MISCELLANEOUSClassifieds YARD SALES HELP WANTED LEGALS

WE BUY YARD SALE Saturday, March CIVIL AND STRUCTURAL HIRING ALL POSITIONS! LOVE WHERE YOU WORK? these documents upon request. You Scrap Metal and Junk Cars. 27, from 8 to 12 noon. 2168 West ENGINEER-IN-TRAINING • Boat mechanic Join the team at the Steinhatchee must keep the Clerk of the Circuit (850) 838-5865. Reddick Drive. Women’s and infant We are looking for a Civil/Structural • Welder/TIG welder River Inn and Marina 1110 Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of clothing, baby items, houseware. Engineer-in-Training to join the Big • Asst. dock boss Riverside Drive, Steinhatchee, Fla. DO YOU LOVE FLOWERS, FRUIT Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Top Team. The ideal candidate • Dock hand Hiring: dock hand, housekeeper Florida Supreme Court Approved AND FRAGRANCE? YARD SALE Saturday, March 27, for this position should possess • Housekeeping and weekend bar/restaurant SHOP LOCAL! Family Law Form 12.915.) Future from 8 to 2 p.m. 2920 Slaughter a strong structural design and Apply in person Steinhatchee Call (352)498-4049 to arrange papers in this lawsuit will be mailed We have azaleas, blooming Road in Perry. Books of all genres, architecture background. River Club or send your resume to phone interview or apply in person. or e-mailed to the addresses on now, camellias, bottlebrush, clothing of all sizes, shoes, Solid knowledge in steel, concrete, [email protected]. No phone 3/24 RHM record at the clerk’s office. bridal wreath, tea olive, palms, furniture and more. and masonry are essential calls please. 4/30 WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida coontie, loropetalum, fruit trees, Family Law Rules of Procedure, skills. HIRING: MARINE MECHANIC. blueberries, grapes and more! requires certain automatic disclosure HELP WANTED Responsibilities include FULL-TIME LINEMAN TRAINEE Duties include removing and BEST QUALITY AND PRICES. Tri-County Electric Cooperative has replacing outboard engine of documents and information. Abe & Diane Whitfield Turkey assessment, planning, and Failure to comply can result in execution of structural designs an opening for a full-time lineman parts, boat accessories, heavy sanctions, including dismissal or Roost Nursery 584-7395 trainee in our Madison office. This equipment maintenance. Must be 6740 Abe Whitfield Lane (six miles LOOKING FOR PART-TIME ALL on a wide range of projects. striking of pleadings. Majority of work will be designing position requires working outside energetic, dependable, be able Dated: Feb. 18, 2021 south of Puckett Road and two AROUND HANDYMAN. Local in adverse weather conditions to multi-task, self-motivated and Gary Knowles miles west Courtney Grade). Perry business. Please reply to: or consulting on the installation of Shelter projects. Travel to project and frequently working overtime; detail oriented. Must be able to CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT 3/31 [email protected] however, it is a rewarding position work weekends and holidays. Full- By:Marti Lee, Deputy Clerk 4/2 locations will be necessary. Must have experience in: with good growth opportunities and time position available. NO PHONE does not require any previous line CALLS!! APPLY IN STORE, IN PETS ~ Metal Truss Structures FLORIDA - STATEWIDE LOOKING FOR SEASONAL experience. On the job training will PERSON WITH AMANDA. SEA ~ Commercial Timed Online DRIVER. CDL REQUIRED. be provided. The co-op is looking HAG MARINA, STEINHATCHEE PLEASE CALL (850) 584-4571. ~ Industrial Public Auction 12-YEAR-OLD female cat in need for a candidate with a high school FLA. 4/2 4/7 ~ Government State-of-the-Art Health and of a loving home. Part Siamese, diploma or equivalent and solid Minimum qualifications and job Fitness Club Equipment spayed, totally declawed. SHE work history that enjoys working in Located in Sanford, Florida AMERICAN ALUMINUM responsibilities will also include: a team environment. The candidate LEGALS MUST BE AN INDOOR CAT. Free ACCESSORIES/CAMLOCKER Bidding closes: Mon, • Designing structures to withstand must also have a Class A, to a loving home. Call (270) 403- NEEDS WELDERS. We are in March 29th, 2021 at 10AM pressures and forces which they Commercial Driver’s License, or be 2418. No calls after 8 p.m. need of experienced Aluminum Auction will consist of must endure, able to obtain one within six months REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL for 50 TIG Welders. There are multiple • Collaborating with other designers premium fitness equipment of employment. The Cooperative loads of fill at 15 yards each,including on various types IN SEARCH OF positions available. Candidates and/or architects as it relates to the aircraft grass runway, graded and offers a competitive salary, of cardio machines, vast can earn up to $15.00/hr to start safest designs and how they may rolled smooth. Ancient Oaks Airpark, starting at $18 an hour for this quantity of free weights, for experienced Aluminum TIG fit in with the aesthetic concept of Steinhatchee, Fl. Call 352-498-5533, position, and benefits. Tri-County strength training and LOOKING FOR A SINGLE WHITE Welders and rates for Specialty the construction, [email protected]. is an EOE and DFWP. Please send conditioning machines, FEMALE to share expenses with. Welders will be negotiated based • Applying expert knowledge of 3/24, 3/26, 3/31, 4/2 on skills and experience. AAA is resume and completed Tri-County biomechanical fitness Prefer no children, but could forces and their impact on various Employment Application Form, make an exception. Can furnish a Drug Free Workplace. To apply machines and devices, structures, which is available at any TCEC IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE all that goes with home. Laundry, go to ezrideronline.com and click group fitness equipment • Solid working knowledge in the office or online at www.tcec.com, THIRD JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, bedroom and bathroom. Light on the “Careers” tab (Welder and much more! Equipment Aluminum TIG - Careers At strength of different materials before March 26, 2021 to: Andrew IN AND FOR TAYLOR COUNTY, is in great condition! screening. Nice home in city limits. FLORIDA American Aluminum Accessories (e.g. concrete, steel, or wood) Pinkard, Tri-County Electric Registration, catalog, Prefer ages from 25 to 55. Call for Case No.: 2020-457DR and understanding of how their Cooperative, Inc., 2862 West US photos and terms available appointment. Call Mike at (850) (hrmdirect.com) call Jess at 850- CANDICE WALKER, Petitioner, and 371-5124 for questions or details. inclusion may necessitate a 90, Madison, FL 32340 at www.moeckerauctions. 371-9550. change of structural design, MICHAEL WALKER, Respondent 3/31 850-973-8022 3/26 NOTICE OF ACTION FOR com. • Analyzing suitable configurations DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE Pick-up/removal: Sanford, FOR RENT GREEN’S OUTDOORS AND of the basic structural components FULL-TIME TO: Michael Walker FL. MORE is now accepting of a building or other structure, JOURNEYMAN LINEMAN 2289 Green Farm Road (Carrie Preview: 03/24 by applications for a cashier/clerk • In-process inspections, as well Tri-County Electric Cooperative is Albritton residence) Perry, Florida appointment. Call for 32347 NOW TAKING APPLICATIONS (must be able to lift 50 lbs.) and as providing guidance/feedback accepting applications for a Full details (954) 252-2887 | parts counter help. Apply in person to contractors. Educational Time Journeyman Lineman. The YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action (800) 840-BIDS FOR 1, 2 AND 3-BEDROOM has been filed against you and that APARTMENTS. Pet friendly. HUD at 1969 Old Foley Road. Call 371- Requirements are:: Bachelor’s candidate is required to have a AB-1098 AU-3219, Eric 5395 for more information. minimum of five years’ experience you are required to serve a copy of considered. Email: pavnew2018@ Degree in Engineering. your written defenses, if any, to it on Rubin gmail.com. Phone: (850) 584- in power line construction Qualified applications can apply Angela M. Ball, whose address is 615 Financial 6444. Text: (352) 232-6691. TAYLOR COUNTY BOARD OF online at www.bigtopshelters.com/ and maintenance, and must N. Jefferson Street, Perry, Florida Do you have $10,000 or PAV COUNTY COMMISSIONERS careers, or in person at Big Top have successful completion 32347 on or before April 3, 2021 and more in unsecured debt? Job Vacancy Announcement. of power line apprenticeship file the original with the clerk of this NOW ACCEPTING Manufacturing, Inc. 3255 N US Get a FREE debt relief The job description and our 19, Perry, Florida (by appointment and Journeyman Certification. Court at Taylor County Courthouse, consultation today. APPLICATIONS for 3BR/2BA 108 N. Jefferson Street, Perry, single-wide mobile home. 2-step application process can only). EEO/AA/m/f/vets/disabled. Thorough knowledge of RUS www.number1debtexperts. be found on our website at www. Construction specifications,Florida, before service on Petitioner Applicants must pass background BT or immediately thereafter. com check. Interested parties please taylorcountygov.com or in the lobby National Electric Safety Code of the County Annex. Applicants and the National Electric Code, If you fail to do so, a default may call (850) 584-7094. WELDERS NEEDED be entered against you for the relief EMH must apply through Career Source. and OSHA rules and regulations Minimum Qualifications: demanded in the petition. The action are required. The candidate must Taylor County is an EEO employer. • High School diploma or equivalent is asking the court to decide: Petition RV PAVILIONS for rent on Beach Engineer - full-time. Park also have a Class A Commercial for Dissolution of Marriage (with Road. Call (850) 838-6077. • Ability to read and understand attendant - seasonal, part-time. Driver’s License. The co-op is minor children) including Parenting JM CAD sketches, 4-H camp staff - seasonal. looking for a candidate with a solid Plan and Temporary Relief Issues • Able to read a tape measure to Animal control officer - full-time. work history that enjoys working in Copies of all court documents in the 1/16th, Roll-off Site Attendant - call-in. a team environment. this case, including orders, are SERVICES • Minimum of two years welding Mosquito Control Driver- on call. The Cooperative offers available at the Clerk of the Circuit experience or a graduate of a Court’s office. You may review Concessions Worker - seasonal. competitive salary and benefits. certified welding program, A TO Z LAWN & Boat Ramp Attendant - seasonal. Tri-County is an Equal Opportunity • Must pass Weld Certification Test Employer (EOE) and Drug Free FARM SERVICES on-site, Licensed and Insured RECEPTIONIST Work Place (DFWP) • Must read and speak English, Complete Lawn Services The Taylor Senior Citizens Center Please send resume and • Heavy lifting is required on a Tree trimming/removal, dump Inc. has a Receptionist position completed Tri-County Employment regular basis (50 lbs), truck services, harrowing, bush available. Monday-Friday 8 a.m. Application Form, which is • Must possess a valid driver’s hog mowing, rake work, dirt to 5 p.m. with paid holidays off. available at any TCEC office or license. leveling. Call (850) 838-5996 or Must be able to multi-task, have online at www.tcec.com, before (850) 584-7972. a great personality and work Qualified applications can apply April 9, 2021 to: AZ well with others. Must be able to online at www.bigtopshelters.com/ Andrew Pinkard work a multiline phone system, careers, or in person at Big Top Tri-County Electric Cooperative, computer skills that include Excel, Manufacturing, Inc. 3255 N US Inc., 2862 West US 90, Madison, BAD WATER? Word and Power Point, Filing and 19, Perry, Florida (by appointment FL 32340 Call Pure Water Pros organization skills also required. only). EEO/AA/m/f/vets/disabled. 850-973-8022 Receptionist will work closely with (352) 578-5096 the Administrator Assistant, Fiscal THE HEALTHY START (850) 693-8844 officer and Lead case manager COALITION of Jefferson, Madison Free H2O Analysis and will report to the Executive and Taylor counties is seeking St. Lic. #2632 Director. a Program Supervisor. Position Drop off a resume at: Insured requires supervisory experience, Taylor Senior Citizens Center Inc knowledge of parenting education, 800 W Ash St, Perry Fl. 32348 child development and maternal & 850-584-4924 child health, experience working JOE COXWELL WELDING LLC TSCC Welding Fabrication & Repair with infants, young children, or Mobile Service. (850) 843-3500. BADCOCK HOME FURNITURE pregnant women, ability to work JC AND MORE is hiring for two independently among a diverse positions: population, general computer STEVE SMITH WELDING, • Full-time salesperson proficiency, excellent written and SANDBLASTING, HOME • Delivery/warehouse person oral communication skills, strong REPAIRS AND LAWN CARE. (must be 21 or older for delivery). interpersonal skills, knowledge No job too small. 30+ years Drug testing/background check. of community resources, experience. Quality work for a Apply in person. No phone calls. ability to elicit information and reasonable price. Call for a quote: maintain confidentiality, strong (850) 838-6551 (or 6552). WOLVERINE’S MOVING LLC organizational skills, home 5/2 IS SEEKING an honest, hard- visitation experience. Requires working LABORER. Experience reliable transportation, valid preferred, but not necessary, $20 driver’s license, good driving per hour. Call Lee Spees at (850) record and automobile insurance. 843-0568 for drug testing and Bachelor’s degree with knowledge other details. LS of community relations, public health issues, maternal and child NOW HIRING: EXPERIENCED health, social services or related CONCRETE FINISHERS, BLOCK field required. Must reside in LAYERS, AND GENERAL Jefferson, Madison or Taylor CONSTRUCTION LABORERS. Counties. Submit resume to Good starting pay with [email protected] by opportunities for raises. Located in COB 3/22/2021. 3/19 Perry, but travel may be required. OPENING for full-time Valid driver’s license required. phlebotomist at Premier Medical. Contact Shannon Millinor at (850) Call (850) 584-3278, option 2. 838-5003. 4/9 4/2 MR. ROGERS POOL COMPANY (formerly Sun Pools) • 30 years experience, • Weekly services, • Equipment sales/repair, • Above and in-ground pool liner changes. Call (850) 295-3948 5/14

A-11 Perry News-Herald Steinhatchee/Beaches March 26-27, 2021 Marina will be 20,000 sq. feet, have private balconies MARINA being used to hold discarded fill from the Continued from page 6 dredging operation, will expanded condominium eventually provide for off- units with private balconies site parking and additional instead of the original four. dry-stack storage. Each floor of the marina Griffis and his partners building will contain have most recently been approximately 6,600 square working on the bar design foot with just below 20,000 for the downstairs outdoor square foot total space entertainment area as under roof. well as steadily locking in The property directly vendors for the future retail across the street, currently space. Fishing tourney hosts 60 anglers More than 60 anglers second place trout for $400, weathered the winds and who reeled in a 4.19lb trout. fished in the Sea The Hag first place flounder, Marina’s 19th annual worth $250, went to Steinhatchee Community Brayden Trice, age 5, and Center Fishing Tournament his 1.49lb flounder. held Saturday, March The award for most spots 20. on a redfish, worth $250, The first place redfish went to Dane Cothron at 10 worth $1,000 was won by spots. Caleb Holden, who reeled Prizes were donated by in a 7.62lb redfish. nearly 30 Steinhatchee Jody Griffis, one of the partners developing the new Steinhatchee Marina, says the building will Mikey Hancin, age 14, businesses. boast 20,000 square feet, private balconies, an outdoor entertaining area and off-site parking. took home second place “The event raised more redfish, worth $400, withthan a $4,000, which will be 6.93lb redfish. put toward improvements Strawberries re-arranged school year The first place trout,and opportunities for the worth $1,000, went to Steve town. Thank you for helping STRAWBERRY permission to operate on a term remained a local special schedule. option issue. Bond with a 5.59lb trout. us support Steinhatchee!” Continued from page 8 Frequently, only some The tide was turning, Adrian Rust took home Sea Hag Marina said. Plant City, for example, of the schools in a district however, and in 1956 has long been known as would operate on the the Hillsborough County the “Winter Strawberry “summer” or “strawberry” School Board abolished the Capital of the World,” and system, while the rest of the strawberry school calendar strawberries have been a county would use the more for all of its schools. The key theme in the town’s familiar “winter” system. remaining strawberry self-promotion. In at least one case in Polk schools in surrounding Florida strawberries County, a school remained counties followed suit soon generally become ready opened year-round and afterward. to harvest between late parents had the opportunity Strawberry farming is December and March, to choose which months still a major winter industry right in the middle of the their children would attend in Central Florida, but traditional spring session of classes. these days children spend the public schools. A similar system was much more time eating The annual Steinhatchee Community Center Fishing Tournament is Farm families depending attempted for a few years the berries than picking hosted each year by Sea Hag Marina, with the proceeds going back to the on the strawberry harvest in the early 1940s in them. community. (Left) The first place redfish worth $1,000 was won by Caleb for their livelihood often Wimauma in Hillsborough Plant City still holds an Holden, who reeled in a 7.62lb redfish. (Center) The first place flounder, enlisted their children’s County annual Strawberry Festival worth $250, went to Brayden Trice, age 5, and his 1.49lb flounder. (Right) help tending and picking The system had its that brings in thousands of Mikey Hancin, age 14, took home second place redfish, worth $400, with the berries. problems, as veteran visitors. a 6.93lb redfish. Gathering the fruit strawberry scholars have was only one part of the explained when asked process; one woman about their experiences. remembered children being Former Hillsborough What happened to responsible for watering County teacher Myrtis the rows of tender plants Hawthorne once told by hand and covering them Tampa Tribune writer with Spanish moss when Leland Hawes that she the weather turned cold. remembered the gnats being the seagrass? Strawberry farmers so bad in her classroom that valued the labor their she often put a small dab of children provided at kerosene on her students’ harvest time, but they also faces to keep them away. recognized the importance The strawberry school of their education. Some system was a boon for communities decided farmers, but several factors to have the best of both combined to bring it to an worlds by rearranging the end in the years following school year. World War II. This was no new Migrant workers invention; the very idea had become a crucial of summer vacation was part of the agricultural originally devised to allow labor force during the farm children to help their wartime emergency, and families during the busy in the postwar years they summer months. preferred to be able to move What Central Florida northward in the summer needed was a “strawberry months as crops became school” that would allow ready for harvest. Extension Office predicts seagrass will recover the students’ off-time The educational quality The Taylor County Days with long negative defoliation as long as recorded for the area in the to coincide with the of strawberry schools also Extension Office reportstides that exposed large conditions go back to past, and scientists have strawberry harvest January came into question during it has received several areas of seagrass that being good soon after the seen the seagrass recover through March. this period. phone calls from boaters dried out under the air and event that caused them to from it. And that is exactly what In 1946, Tampa Tribune concerned about changes sun. drop leaves (low salinity, Scientists and agencies happened in many cases. reporter J.A. “Jock” on the local grass flats,Extreme cold weather desiccation, grazing)’,” the are aware of the situation In earlier years, counties Murray began writing a where large sandy areas during last months that Extension Office shared. and will keep an eye on this would adjust the school series of articles criticizing are present where healthy also affected seagrass However, two total to follow up in the seagrass year as needed for their the system as exploitative seagrass beds were present leaves. defoliations (from recovery. particular harvest season. and academically deficient. before. Environmental desiccation and again from “How fast will it Once state education Murray’s efforts helped Also, boaters report an conditions that promoted a urchins) could be a bad recover? We don't know authorities began regulating pave the way for Florida’s abundance of sea urchins population explosion of sea combo especially for grass as it depends on numerous the length and structure of landmark Minimum present in the same areas. urchins, which graze (feed) that is near the northern environmental variables, the school calendar, local Foundation education law In consultation with on seagrass leaves to the extent of its range in but we are lucky to be in a districts had to request of 1947, but the school numerous specialists point where leaf coverage winter. pristine and well-preserved from the Big Bend might be completely gone. Barry shared that if area,” the Extension Office Seagrass Aquatic Preserve “Despite this situation, there are still live rhizomes said. (BBSGAP), University there is good news,” the below the surface, there “We will post more of Florida and Nature Extension Office shared onis a good chance that they information about this Coast Biological Station Facebook. can recover even from two situation. Thank you to all (NCBS), biologists agree a “Dr. Savanna Barry defoliation events. those boaters, visitors and series of events might have states, ‘Overall, turtle According to the local captains who reported produced the recent loss of grass is extremely resilient Extension Office,this these issue,” the Extension seagrass, including: and can survive 100% type of events have been Office concluded. A-12 Perry News-Herald March 26-27, 2021