North Florida Regional Chamber of Commerce - "Proudly Serving Bradford, Union & SW Clay Counties" - Clay Today
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SPECIAL
SECTION
PAGES 30-42
POSTAL CUSTOMER PRSTR STD
U.S. POSTAGE
North Florida Regional
Chamber of Commerce
PAID
Orange Park, FL
Permit #650
“Proudly Serving Bradford,
Union & SW Clay Counties”
www.NorthFloridaChamber.com
Our Mission: To provide quality law
enforcement services to the citizens of
Bradford County, serving our community
through crime prevention, drug enforcement,
proactive patrols, and education.
2 • North Florida Regional Chamber • 2021 2021 • NorthFloridaChamber.com • 3
The Great Bradford Chamber of Commerce is a vital part of the
ongoing growth that is taking place here in the Bradford County
area. Your membership in the Chamber provides unparalleled
opportunities to connect with peers, current and prospective
clients, and partners up and down the supply chain, to keep RESERVE
communication lines open. YOURS
NOW
Further, the programs and events the Chamber supports, promotes,
and is involved in provide extraordinary opportunities to grow
needed networks and gain new insights to address the ever-chang-
ing challenges facing all of us in business today. By working togeth- WE ARE HOME MURRAY SERVICE COUPON
er as Chamber members, we have a much stronger voice with our
elected leaders as they contemplate policy revisions and new rules OF THE 15 YEAR OIL CHANGE
150,000 MILE $
39 95
and regulations that create greater certainty and an improved envi- Bobby Payne Jennifer Bradley Oil. Lube, Tire Rotation,
Member of the Florida House Member of the Florida Senate
ronment for business in Bradford County.
WARRAMTY
free inspection,
of Representatives Republican No Appt. Necessary
Republican Representing District 5
The Chamber’s involvement in promoting the Rural County Days
Representing the 19th House District Tallahassee Office
Event in Tallahassee over the last few years, has helped the Cham- 209 House Office Building 324 Senate Building
bers and Local Business connect and provide Legislators with the 402 South Monroe Street 404 South Monroe Street WE WILL BEAT ANY DEAL - BY UP TO $1,000
uniqueness of local Businesses, their talent influence in the local
community, promoting e-commerce, developing trends and pat-
Tallahassee, FL 32399-1300
Office Phone: 850-717-5019
Tallahassee, FL 32399-1100
Office Phone: 850-487-5005 ON A NEW CHRYSLER, DODGE, JEEP, OR RAM
terns that are unique to Rural communities.
Let me help you get your house SOLD!
We support the Bradford Chamber, membership and residents in
“A Watson Top Producer”
Bradford County and encourage you all to shop locally and support
Result Achiever / Local Resident
your community. We represent you in Tallahassee from both the
House of Representatives and Florida Senate and your concerns,
ideas and opportunities are something we greatly value. NO MONTHLY PAYMENTS FOR 90 DAYS THROUGH CHRYSLER CAPITAL!
DEIDRE MURPHY
M U R R AY F O R D - 9 0 4 - 9 6 4 - 7 2 0 0 MURRAY • CH RY S L ER • D O D G E • JEEP • RAM
Bobby Payne, House 1 3 4 4 7 U S H W Y 3 0 1 S . S TA R K E , F L 1 5 1 6 1 US H WY 3 0 1 S . S TARK E, F L
7384 SR 21 • Keystone Heights, FL
Jennifer Bradley, Senate W W W. M U R R AY F O R D S TA R K E . C O M 9 0 4 - 9 6 4 - 3 2 0 0 - WWW. MURRAY CD JR. CO M
Office (352) 473-6200 • Cell (352) 281-3026
4 • North Florida Regional Chamber • 2021 2021 • NorthFloridaChamber.com • 5
WELCOME WE APPROACH YOUR TRANSACTION WITH A SMALL
TOWN, PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL ATTITUDE
Pam Whittle,
Chamber President North Florida Regional
Chamber of Commerce
Transportation Update: We are pleased to see the
completion of the ALT 301 Truck Route. Residents Mission Statement:
see less traffic which allows safer and easier Our mission is to give tourists a reason
shopping and dining in Starke. The HWY 100 Bridge to visit, businesses a reason to locate,
project construction has begun we look forward to and citizens a reason to reside, work, and
the changes that it will bring to the downtown area. participate in our region of Florida.
The Alligator Creek Bridge on 301 is making great
progress and should be completed by the years end. Board of Governors 2021
Chairman - Rhonda Hamilton – Lake Area Physical Therapy
North Florida Regional Chamber of Commerce sitions. We also promote CSNCFL events and Hot Chair Elect - Chris Page – Community State Bank
serves Bradford, Union and SW Clay Counties. One Jobs in the region. Treasurer - Dale Woodruff – Bradford Agricultural Fair
of our goals has been to increase the tax base, more NFRCC staff is also the Administrator to the James Eison – Community State Bank
public dollars by bringing outside dollars in. One Bradford County Tourism Development Council we
Doug Reddish - Reddish & White CPAs
way this is done is with the Bradford County Straw- notice and organize their meetings, arrange for loca-
Lindsey Reddish - Capital City Bank
berry Festival which is in its 23rd Year. The Chamber tion for the meeting, set the agendas and take notes
is the host of this event bringing over 15,000 visitors and minutes for all meetings. Chamber staff assists Denny Thompson - Bradford Clerk of the Court
to our region during the weekend. The ripple effect the TDC with their local grant program for events Rob Stoneberger - Legacy Home Health Care
an event of this magnitude has on small communities that promote Bradford County and bring visitors Danielle Smith – Danielle’s Auto Salon
such as Starke, Lawtey, Lake Butler and Keystone to the county for extended stay. TDC website and (L-R) Tracy Greimel - Realtor, Terri Murphy - Realtor
Helen Hersey – Helen Hersey Realty
can be measured weeks after the event, through re- social media page are managed by chamber staff.
tail sales, lodging and dinning. The exposure of our Chamber staff work with outside organizations to Sara Owen – City of Lake Butler Patricia Hatch Owner/Broker, Keith Hatch Realtor Office Administrator
region and businesses during the Strawberry Festi- bring in activities to our region of Florida that will Steve Futch – Jones –Gallagher Funeral Home Michelle Reimer - Realtor, Rene Christopher - Part Time Admin Assistant
val is felt long range in return patrons that are seek- promote Bradford County and put heads on beds Zack Smith – VyStar
ing the small town atmosphere away from the hustle and increase the tax base in our region. NFRCC is
of larger cities.
Chamber staff has been working over the past
the Administrator for the Bradford County Develop-
ment Authority, assisting them with their meetings,
Brad Smith – BCSO
Brad Bishop - North Florida Technical College Patricia Y. Hatch, Broker/Owner
few years trying to find solutions to the infrastructure making sure meetings are noticed and agendas are Cell (904) 806-2857 • Office (352) 478-8838
deficit in our region of internet. Internet is no longer prepared. The BCDA has an active website that staff NFRCC Board of Governors meetings are held the 2nd
a luxury to business but it is as essential as water, assists with keeping information current as well as Thursday of the month
and electricity. The Chamber has worked with many a social media presence on facebook. Both organi-
individuals and organizations making sure the busi- zations have actively worked over several years to
ness voice is heard and the problems that have oc- improve the infrastructure of our area where busi- Staff
Meet New
curred over the past few years dealing with the lack nesses and residents experience the lack of internet President / CEO - Pam Whittle, IOM
of adequate internet are brought to the forefront. service. This has become especially important over Team Member
Business Service - Susan (Becky) Norman
We are very happy to say that several solutions have this past year with everyone working from home and
come from those talks and meetings and in the very going to school from home. We have made some
near future the business community should see relief significant improvements in this area but much still
Contact Us: Matt Merritt
100 East Call Street • Starke, FL 32091
and options to the internet situation. needs to be done and we will continue to work on
The staff at NFRCC works in partnership with this particular issue. We are a small staff of two but www.northfloridachamber.com
our local workforce board, CareerSource North Cen- we give one hundred percent to our jobs and our Like us on facebook NFRegionalChamber
License #BK3268631
tral Florida. Job Fairs and Hiring Events are held for community.
businesses needing to fill multiple or specialty po-
904-964-5278 (M – F)
hatchrealtyservices.com
6 • North Florida Regional Chamber • 2021 2021 • NorthFloridaChamber.com • 7
TABLE OF CONTENTS COMMUNITY EVENTS
WELCOME LETTER CHAMBER PRESIDENT_________ 6 KEYSTONE HEIGHTS INFORMATION____________ 23 February
1st Saturday - North Florida Regional July 4th Independence Day - Our Country Day in Keystone
Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting 4th Independence Day - Lake Butler Celebration on the Lake
COMMUNITY EVENTS_________________________ 9 THE FIRM_________________________________ 26 20th Miss Northeast Florida Pageant 5th Holiday Observed by most businesses
BRADFORD COUNTY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY__ 11 CLUBS____________________________________ 28 March 9th - 14th Bradford Agricultural Fair September 7th Labor Day
27th and 28th Bradford County Strawberry Festival
CITY OF STARK_____________________________ 12 CITY OF HAMPTON__________________________ 29 October 11th Columbus Day
April 2nd Starke Kiwanis Golf Tournament 30th Great Pumpkin Escape
KEYSTONE HEIGHTS RV RESORT_______________ 14 HOMTOWN HERO: STEVE FUTCH_______________ 30 4th Easter Sunday
November 11th Veteran’s Day
BRADFORD COUNTY INFORMATION____________ 15 BRADFORD COUNTY UNIQUE COMMUNITY_______ 32 May 5th Cinco De Mayo 25th Thanksgiving
9th Mother’s Day 27th Shop Small Saturday
BRADFORD COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS_____ 16 HOMTOWN HERO: LARRY BROWN_____________ 34 13th American Values Dinner
31st Memorial Day December 9th Miss Winter Fest Pageant
Starke Life is Published Annually by the THINGS TO DO______________________________ 17 HOMTOWN HERO: ALLEN CAILLOUET___________ 36 10th Christmas on Call St.
North Florida Regional Chamber of Commerce June 19th Juneteenth 11th Starke Christmas Parade
TOWN OF BROOKER_________________________ 19 HOMTOWN HERO: HARRY COONEY_____________ 38 20th Father’s Day 13th and 14th Shop With A Cop
in Partnership with the Keystone Heights Herald
and the Clay Today Newspaper. For Chamber
RELOCATION_______________________________ 21 HOMTOWN HERO: MIKE POTAPOW_____________ 42
information call 904-964-5278. To Advertise
in the 2022 Directory call 352-502-9700. CAMP BLANDING___________________________ 22 MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY____________________ 43
#itsbetterinBradford
Come Home Need a Coffee Break on the way to the beach?
to Northeast Florida Don’t look for mermaids until you get to the water.
Lot Financing Available from Capital City Bank
Chain or locally-roasted, home-brewed coffee?
Capital City Bank is proud to offer lot financing options in Bradford, Clay and surrounding counties*. We provide
You really do have a choice for your coffee on ®
fast, local decisions on an array of loan products to meet your individual needs. Contact Penny Pearson to discuss the way to Crescent Beach. Just five minutes
financing options and apply today. Mon- Fri: 7:00 am - 3:00 pm
out of your way in charming Keystone Heights, Saturday: 8:00 am - 3:00 pm
we’re making quite a splash around here. Sunday: Closed
904.964.7050 Stop and see for yourself! 322 State Rd 100, Suite D
www.ccbg.com Keystone Heights, FL 32656
352.478.8174
*
All loans are subject to credit approval and may be subject to property approval.
www.FirePower.Coffee
8 • North Florida Regional Chamber • 2021 2021 • NorthFloridaChamber.com • 9
INSURANCE
RATES
TOO HIGH?
C. Scott Roberts
WE CAN HELP!
Owner/Agent
www.GeorgeRobertsIns.com • Been in business over 60 years
csr@georgerobertsins.com • Two locations in Clay County
• We can write ALL lines of insurance
We represent more than 30 A-Rated insurance companies
providing you the best insurance at the best price.
Auto • Business • Home • Life/Health
The Bradford County quest of economic develop- With the vision of Repre- in over the past few years,
Development Authority ment for Bradford County. sentative Bobby Payne, one while postponed in 2021,
meetings are held the 2nd Building relationships with of the biggest endeavors the resulted in what has been
Tuesday of each month. site selectors, government BCDA, in partnership with a noted as one of the most
Starke Keystone Heights Middleburg The BCDA is a stand- agencies and other EDC committee formed of several visible legislative events in
986 N. Temple Ave. 333 S. Lawrence Blvd. 2361 Blanding Blvd. alone economic develop- groups has started showing county and community lead- Tallahassee.
904-964-7826 352-473-7209 904-282-7665 ment entity created by Flori- results. The BCDA has aided ers, took on was the creation
da Legislature, whose board in responding to major RFP’s of Rural Counties Day. The Visit www.choosebradfordcounty.com
members are appointed by in the past. many hours that were put
CHRISTIAN RETIREMENT COMMUNITY Florida’s Governor. No mem-
ber of the Bradford County
WHERE RESIDENTS ARE FIRST Development Authority
receives compensation of
any kind for their service.
A charming community in beautiful Keystone All board members are vol-
Heights where neighbors become friends and unteers that are dedicated
to economic development
retirement living is easy. progress in our community.
This board, amongst oth-
Special care is provided in our assisted living facility ers, recognized and em-
where our staff make you their first priority. braced that EDC education
• Assisted Living Facility with ECC license (AL5265) in addition to cooperation
• Community Center with Library & Fitness Center and collaboration between
different Bradford County
• Independent Living (Most utilities included in rent) Boards and groups needed
• On-site Church & On-site dining to be facilitated. The BCDA
has focused efforts and
Now taking applications for dependable, professional, caring staff – call 352-473-6100 ext 303.
continues to be a catalyst
Park of the Palms Christian Retirement Community for these changes. Another
204 Maranatha Rd. • Keystone Heights key priority continues to be
352.473.6100 • parkofthepalms.org identifying sources of addi-
tional revenue to aid in our
10 • North Florida Regional Chamber • 2021 2021 • NorthFloridaChamber.com • 11
The City of Starke Florida City Officials
Mayor Shannon Smith Vice Mayor Janice D. Mortimer Commissioner Tommy Chastain
Commissioner Wilbur Waters Commissioner Danny Nugent City Clerk Ricky Thompson
Police Chief Jeff Johnson City Attorney Clay Martin City Manager John J. Holman
209 North Thompson Street | Starke FL 32091 | (904) 964-5027 | A F T E R H O U R S: Utility Outage, Callouts: (904) 966-6161
12 • North Florida Regional Chamber • 2021 2021 • NorthFloridaChamber.com • 13
New Keystone Heights RV Resort a perfect home away from home
By Bruce Hope / bruce@opcfla.com
KEYSTONE HEIGHTS – Florida is a destination for many people
Welcome to
Bradford County
from the north during the winter and the place of choice for many va-
cationers during the summer. The newly-opened Keystone Heights RV
Resort offers a comfortable home front for all.
Some visitors move to the sunshine state permanently. Many of the
people who arrive are no longer coming by traditional means – driving or
flying. They use a different method to better control how long they stay,
Bradford County is a rural community located in Northeast Florida.
cut out the middleman of paying for a hotel, and bring more of home
Bradford was founded as New River County in 1858 but was renamed
with them wherever they go. They are traveling in RVs recreational vehi-
Bradford County in 1861. The county has a population of 27,000 people
cles and motor homes. The only question is when they arrive, where do and covers 294 square miles. Bradford County is home to the City of
they park? Starke, City of Lawtey, City of Hampton and the Town of Brooker with
The new resort, located less than 10 miles from downtown Starke at down here. I like it because it’s spacious and I think that when they finally Starke being the county seat.
1177 SE Keystone Ave., opened on Nov. 1. It provides a place to park and get it finished, it’s going to be a really nice park.”
enjoy the time in northeast Florida. Stockwell likes the size of the concrete slabs as opposed to some other Parks & Recreation
“It’s geared toward long-term or seasonal stays,” said Ken Loyd, gener- RV parks, as well as the amenities that are on their way. Welcome to the Bradford County Parks and Recreation page. Bradford
al manager. “There’s a lot of people that are living in their RVs all the time Scott and Tracy Ranshaw are also from Michigan and now are at the County is home to five publicly accessible lakes and two wildlife manage-
now – full-timers. And then there are folks that just come down for the RV park. They arrived about a week ago. ment areas, with many opportunities for recreation on land and water.
winter and stay, and then they go back up north to their homes up there. Scott travels for work and is currently in Florida. His family joined
We’re trying to give them an attractive place to stay and enjoy the Florida him recently. Lakes And Boat Ramp Locations
weather.” • Hampton Lake - West End of Southwest 101st Street,
After almost a year of construction that was affected by the Hampton, FL 32044
COVID-19 pandemic, the resort had a soft opening earlier this month. •Sampson and Rowell Lakes - 14300 Southwest 75th Avenue,
There is still work to be done before the grand reopening, but some peo- Starke, FL 32091
ple have already pulled in to get a spot in the new resort. • Little Lake Santa Fe - 3858 Southeast 20th Avenue,
Just about everything is provided for the renter when they reserve Keystone Heights, FL 32656
a spot. They come equipped with connections for electricity. There will • Santa Fe Lake - 42500 Northeast State Road 26, Melrose, FL 32666
also be a clubhouse that can be rented out to hold parties and gatherings,
including for functions of non-residents, a game room, a fitness room Parks
and a small library. There will also be a bath and shower house and a large • Pleasant Grove Park - At the corner of Northwest County Road 229
87,000-gallon pool. and Northwest 177th Street, Starke, FL 32091
The park can accommodate nearly 400 RVs. • Speedville Park- 879 Southeast 35th Street, Melrose, FL 32666
Art Stockwell and his wife Debbie have already reserved a spot and • Lincoln City Park - At the corner of Southeast 143rd Terrace and
are currently parked at the resort. The Stockwells are originally from Southeast 44th Avenue, Starke, FL 32091
Michigan and spent the last 10 years in Tennessee before moving down to
Florida. They’ve been at Keystone Heights RV resort since it opened.
“I like this place here,” said Stockwell. “We saw it when there was
nothing here, just a bunch of bulldozers. I have a niece that lives here, and
Discover the Cooperative Difference
she shopped around for us while we were getting ready to physically move Clay Electric has been part of your
community for more than 80 years.
Through our hard work and dedication,
we provide reliable, professional
electric service to 186,000 member-
owned accounts.
ClayElectric.com
Automated Outage Reporting: (888) 434-9844
Keystone Heights District Office: (352) 473-4917
Continues On Page 16
photo from file
14 • North Florida Regional Chamber • 2021 2021 • NorthFloridaChamber.com • 15
Continued from page 15 Bradford County Board of Commissioners Things to Do in Starke, Lawtey in Bradford County_____________
District 1, Carolyn Spooner
Wildlife Management Areas P.O. Drawer B, Starke, FL 32091
• Santa Fe Swamp Wildlife Management Area Office: (904) 966-6327 The Florida International Rally & Motorsport Park
Southeast 11th Avenue, Starke, FL 32091 Fax: (904) 368-3903 7266 Airport Rd • Starke, FL 32091
(Approximately 1/2 Mile off State Road 100) Cell: (904) 966-1307 (352) 473-2999
carolyn_spooner@bradfordcountyfl.gov The FIRM is home to RallyPro Performance Driving School and the Inter-
The Santa Fe Swamp Wildlife Management Area (WMA) consist of national Security Academy (ISA). ISA, relies upon the RallyPro Performance
7,272 acres and is open for fishing, wildlife viewing, horseback riding,
Driving School to teach units how to safely extract assets, at high-speeds
hiking, and bicycling throughout the year. Children under the age of 16
are required to wear a helmet when horseback riding on public lands.
and across varying terrain. All RallyPro instructors are highly skilled and the
District 2, Kenny Thompson most diverse technical drivers in the world; uniquely experienced in vehicle
Hunting of white-tailed deer, feral hog, turkey, gray squirrel, and eastern
P.O. Drawer B, Starke, FL 32091 dynamics, for high-speed, and high-risk drivertraining. The FIRM provides
cottontail rabbit is allowed in this WMA during specified seasons with
Office: (904) 966-6327 mission critical scenarios across surface changes at high-speeds. The weight
primitive weapons only (bow and arrow and muzzleloader).
• Raiford Wildlife Management Area
Fax: (904) 368-3903
Cell: (904) 796-2261
transfer that occurs from surface transitions when going off-road, then back
onto the tarmac, is the number one cause of fatalities for untrained drivers.
The FIRM
Northwest County Road 125, Lawtey, FL 32058 Business: (904) 782-3238 or 3232 RallyPro instructors teach advanced vehicle management skills that protect
bocc@bradfordcountyfl.gov assets and saves lives.
Raiford WMA consists of 9,141 acres and is located along the New River in
northwest Bradford County. The New River flows through the center of the
WMA, and Olustee Creek (which branches off of the New River) flows through Public Boat Ramps
the eastern portion of the WMA. Much of the area is closed or in private own- Various locations• Bradford County, FL 32091
ership but the remaining portion of the area is open for hunting during spec- District 3, Chris Dougherty
Address: P.O. Drawer B, (904) 964-5278
ified seasons. Wild turkey, white-tailed deer, gray squirrel, eastern cottontail
rabbit, gopher tortoise, raccoon, and red-tailed hawk are some of the wildlife Starke, Florida 32091 If you like to fish or ski, there’s public boat ramps located in and around
County Office: (904) 966-6327 Bradford County where you can put in your boat and go fishing or skiing.
TEAL
County Fax: (904) 368-3903 There’s Lake Sampson, Hampton Lake, Lake Santa Fe, Lake Alto and more.
County Cell: (904) 796-7095
chris_dougherty@bradfordcountyfl.gov
Gold Head State Park Gold Head
6239 State Rd 21 • Keystone Heights, FL 32656
TILE
(352) 473-4701
One of Florida’s first state parks since 1935. The initial property was donated
Visit Our ! District 4, Danny Riddick
by Martin J. “Mike” Roess and developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps
Showroom P.O. Drawer B, Starke, Florida 32091
(CCC). The CCC was launched in 1933 to combat unemployment during the
Depression. In 1935, 25 craftsmen from Company 2444 were sent to the
County Office: (904) 966-6327
Gold Head site where they were joined by hundreds of CCC youth and estab-
County Fax: (904) 368-3903
lished Camp SP-5. Together they planted trees, cleared areas for campsites,
Cell: (352) 318-4950
Your Flooring Specialists Business: (352) 473-7033
built roads and constructed many of the buildings.
bocc@bradfordcountyfl.gov
Sales • Service • Installation Bradford County Fair Grounds
2300 North Temple Avenue • Starke, FL 32091
COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL (904) 964-5252
• Vinyl • Carpet • Ceramic Tile District 5, Diane Andrews
P.O. Drawer B, Starke, Florida 32091
The annual Bradford County Fair. There is Cattle and Swine, their respective
shows and sales. The Goat and Poultry exhibitions will be back this year as
• Hardwood & Laminate Floors County Office: (904)966-6327 well. Lots of great food will be returning including The Kiwanis Club, featur-
County Fax: (904) 368-3903 ing their great Bar-B-Que and other delicacies, The Rotary Club, featuring
904-964-7423 BUYING POWER OF Cell: (904) 796-0782 their funnel cakes!, along with Shands Hospital Auxiliary serving their fa-
131 N. Cherry St., Starke, FL 32091 OVER 1,400 STORES!! diane_andrews@bradfordcountyfl.gov mous Strawberry Shortcake!
Mon-Fri 8:30 am - 5:30 pm
Saturday by Appointment
Fair
P.O. Drawer B, Starke, Florida 32091 • (904) 966-6327
16 • North Florida Regional Chamber • 2021 2021 • NorthFloridaChamber.com • 17
townofbrooker.com
Bradford Sportsmen’s Farm
11394 SW 106th Ave. • Graham, FL 32042
(352) 485-2302
The Bradford Sportsmen’s Farm shooting range is located in Graham, FL Bradford Sportsmen’s Farm
and offers some of the best and most diverse shooting facilities available Town Council
to the public in one site. These facilities include two fully automated, 14 Vacant - Seat 1
station sporting clay courses with two machines at each station. We also Pamela Johnson - Seat 2
have two fully automated 5-stands controlled by portable long-range con- Cecil E. (Gene) Melvin - Seat 3
trollers as well as a 25-yard pistol range, a 50-yard rifle and pistol range, a Steve Acree - Seat 4
300-yard rifle range, and an 850-yard rifle range. Our sporting clays cours- Joe Tolleson - Seat 5
es are designed to accommodate all shooter skill levels with one course Mayor - C.E. (Gene) Melvin
for novice to intermediate skilled shooters and another for tournament Vice-Mayor - Pamela Johnson
level shooters. New to our facility is our covered and air conditioned ban- own Clerk - Charlene Thomas
quet facility.
Monthly meetings are held the 2nd Tuesday of each month @ 7:00 pm
Kingsley Lake at the Town Hall.
Kingsley Lake is an almost circular lake of about 2,000 acres in North Cen-
tral Florida, about six miles east of Starke, Florida. According to some Contact Town Clerk if you wish to be on the Agenda.
sources, it is the oldest and highest lake in Florida, located on the edge
of the Trail Ridge formation. The lake is a very stable lake with a sandy Charlene Thomas, Custodian of Public Records
bottom. Its deepest part is about 90 feet. P.O. Box 127, Brooker, FL 32622
brooker1022@windstream.net
Edwards Road Complex 352-485-1022 352-485-1433 fax
Visit us at dickswingsandgrill.com/starke for special offers!
417B West Edwards Road • Starke, FL 32091
(904) 964-8334
FOLLOW US
City of Starke Baseball Complex
Biking
Just west of Starke you will find: Lake Sampson, Lake Rowell, and Lake
Kingsley Lake
Crosby. Fish these waters for bluegill, sunfish, crappie, and both sunshine
and largemouth bass. Lake Sampson, in particular, is a fishermen’s para-
TREE SERVICE
dise. Lake Sampson and Rowell are connected by a canal, which is pass- Free Estimates
able by small boat. Canoeing, swimming, picnicking, and hiking trails are Residential + Commercial
also available. If you enjoy biking, you’ll enjoy riding the Starke – Lake
Butler Loop. This 61-mile bicycle route passes through Starke, as well as
Hampton and Brooker, on its way around to Lake Butler. • Removal • Stump Grinding
• Trimming & Pruning • Light Land Clearing
Camp Blanding Museum • Topping • 24 Hour Emergency & Hazardous Services
5629 FL-16 #3040 • Starke, FL 32091 • View Enhancement • Tree Debris Hauling
(904) 682-3196
The Museum houses a colorful collection of weapons (U.S. and foreign). Family Owned & Operated, Locally Owned & Operated
a refurbished World War II barracks, houses a colorful collection of weap-
ons, photo exhibits, mannequins in uniform, and other artifacts. These Fully Insured, Licensed & Workers Comp
exhibits tell the story of Camp Blanding, the units that trained there, and
the surrounding area during World War II. 904.282.9061 / 904.259.8060
Camp Blanding
http://www.bradfordcountyfloridatourism.com
if you need more pictures or more information www.MacsTreeServiceJax.com
18 • North Florida Regional Chamber • 2021 2021 • NorthFloridaChamber.com • 19RELOCATION
North Florida Chamber Water & Sewer Companies Educational Information
Pam Whittle Suwannee River Water Management Bradford County School Board
100 East Call Street District - (800) 226-1066 or 501 W Washington St.
Starke, FL 32091 (386) 362-1001 Starke, FL 32091
Phone: 904-964-5278 City of Starke - (904) 964-7776 904-966-6800
Fax: 904-964-2863 North Florida Technical College
www.northfloridachamber.com Cable Companies 609 N Orange St
Comcast - (800) 266-2278 or Starke, Fl 32091
Utility Companies Information (877) 530-1213 Customer Service (904) 966-6764
Electric Companies Satellite Companies Sante Fe College
City of Starke Directv - (877) 356-2135 or Andrews Center
(904) 964-5027 www.directv.com Director, Cheryl Canova
Florida Power & Light Dish Network - (888) 656-2872 or 209 W Call St. Starke, FL 32091
(800) 851-9402 www.dish.com 904-964-5382
Clay Electric
(352) 473-8000 Waste Disposal Employment Information
Waste Management - (904) 964-4184 CareerSource North Central Florida
Gas Companies Internet Services 904-964-8092 Job Seekers
City of Starke - (904) 964-7776 Century Link - (888) 723-8010 904-964 WORK Employers
Sawyer Gas - (352) 468-1500 819 S Walnut Street
Phone Companies Located in the Bradford Square
Century Link - (888) 723-8010 Shopping Center
KASASA CASH®
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• At least 12 debit card purchases|Be enrolled in and agree to receive e-statements|Be
enrolled in and log into online banking
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20 • North Florida Regional Chamber • 2021 2021 • NorthFloridaChamber.com • 21Camp Blanding Museum Keystone Heights providing unique experiences
As of the census of 1860, first head count made after the birth of Starke, showed 138 inhabitants of the Clay County’s only airport, Keystone see and learn more about lions, tigers, canopy. The Historic Keystone Beach trail from Palatka to Lake Butler, is closer
tiny settlement, more than half of whom came here from Georgia and South Carolina. Heights Airport, serves as a take-off and leopards, panthers, bobcats, bears and Pavilion newly renovated to include an to completion. The trail runs along the
In 1940, Camp Blanding was leased to the United States Army as an active-duty training center. The landing site for private aircraft, corporate other species of exotic animals. HVAC system to serve as an indoor/ Norfolk-Southern Railroad spanning 4
post was originally used by New England and Southern troops preparing for deployment overseas. How-
jets and a variety of air services. outdoor entertainment venue. Additional northeast Florida counties. While this
ever, during the course of the war, Camp Blanding served as an infantry-replacement training center, an
Keystone Heights Airport also provides It’s All Natural renovations have included a seamless wifi trail still has 24-miles in various stages of
induction center, a German prisoner-of-war compound, and a holding center for 343 Japanese, German,
and Italian immigrant residents of the United States. At the height of the war, the Army leased acreage
FBO service in the newly constructed What do the gopher tortoise, zone in the parks surrounding city hall as development, the 19-mile span that runs
from local landowners, raising the total to 170,000 acres. From 1940 to 1945, more than 800,000 soldiers FBO building. In addition to being a Sherman’s fox squirrel, Florida black well powered picnic tables to charge your through Keystone Heights is paved and
received all or part of their training here. transportation hub for the county, the bear, American alligator and eastern laptops/smart devices so that you may inviting you to explore. Upon completion
Starke, while very small became a boom town with an abundance of people and cash, yet no hotels Keystone Heights Airport is also home indigo snake have in common? They work from our amazing park. Future of the trailhead, you’ll also be able to
or rooms for rent, they quickly began to build and offer rooms for rent to the quickly expanding due to the to two unique attractions. are all threatened species or species renovations are anticipated for fall of 2021. enjoy new amenities like restrooms and
military growth at Camp Blanding Take in our rich military history of special concern that are located at They will include restroom renovations and vehicle parking, so you can start your
Today, the history of Camp Blanding can be seen at the ever popular Museum, which was established by visiting both military museums: Belmore State Forest, just northeast of upgrades, replacing the stage overlooking adventure in Keystone Heights.
in 1990 and currently features displays focused on Camp Blanding’s History and involvement during WWII. Military Museum of Northeast Florida Keystone Heights. Hiking and biking the Lake Geneva and updating our covered Keystone Heights, with its unique
On display you will find uniforms, weapons, equipment items, vehicles, and aircrafts dating back to located in Green Cove Springs and trails, permitted hunting and much picnic area. experiences and natural beauty matched
the 1940’s. Our plans are to expand the museum to include displays for the Korean War, Vietnam War, Camp Blanding Museum. You’ll see more can be enjoyed there from sunrise The Keystone Heights Trailhead along with the friendly faces you’ll see most
Desert Shield/Desert Storm, and the Global War on Terror (Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi memorabilia and hear tremendous to sunset. the Palatka-Lake Butler State Trail, a everywhere you go, is a place you’ll want to
Freedom). military and space aviation stories that If you’re looking for more outdoor nearly 47-mile, multi-use recreational visit again and again.
Inside the museum, you will also find a gift shop specialized in selling history books, pins, patches, are part of our destination’s pride. adventure, Goldhead State Park offers
badges, and other miscellaneous historical military items. The museum also has a Memorial Park dedicat- After strolling through history, see a rare hike down to a ravine, primitive
ed to preserving large military artifacts of military history covering World War II, Vietnam, and Operation
how fast you can go on the Rally Race or RV camping or cabins. Hiking and
Desert Storm. You will also find numerous monuments to the men and units who trained and or were
Car Course, FIRM, located at the cycling trails, canoe and kayak launches
stationed at Camp Blanding over time.
Keystone Heights Airport. Whether you and a wide variety of picnic areas and
want to take defensive driving classes, private event space make it easy to enjoy
drive or train to race rally cars, or you this state park.
Welcome to a great place to live. want to bring your own vehicle for open Looking for some family fun? Keystone
And a better place to put your money. course day, it’s about racing for your Heights offers many park adventures.
bragging rights. Paradise Bark at Sunrise Park is the only
Just down the road from the Keystone official dog park in the county. Keystone
While you explore all that the area has to offer, Heights Airport, another adventure Beach brings out the kid in you with a
we hope you’ll also take a look at VyStar. awaits. Single Vision is a wildlife fun family picnic area and an expansive
Our members enjoy: education facility. While there you can playground encompassed by a great oak
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All new accounts and loans are subject to approval. Certain restrictions and limitations apply. Programs, services, rates, terms and conditions are subject to change at any 620 E. Nona Street • Starke, FL 340 East Walker Drive • Keystone Heights, FL 904-964-7596 • 234 N Temple Ave • Starke
time without notice. ©2021 VyStar Credit Union 904.964.6200 352.473.3176 386-496-2241 • 40 W. Main • Lake Butler
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3553 Relo Ad ForRegional Chamber
Destination Putnam • 2021
- Starke Chamber.MECH.indd 1 2/24/21 12:14 PM 2021 • NorthFloridaChamber.com • 23Le t U s T u r n Y o u r D r e a m s I n t o R e a l i t y ! AVAILA
BLE
OLD
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SOLD
Over 16 Million Sold in 2020
Multi-Year Multi-Million
Dollar Producer
AILABLE
Number ONE Sales AV
Associate in the Lake Area
Your Home,
Right Now
Turning your dreams into an Address!
275 S. Lawrence Blvd. Ste 1, Keystone Heights
OFFICE: 352-478-SOLD
352-478-7100
MeLissa Pellerito
(352) 494-1829 Call or Text
mpelleritorealtor@gmail.com
Community Involvement • First Time Home Buyers • Veterans • Investment Residential • Commercial Property • Land & Building • Retirement Homes
Pellerito_CenterTruck_StarkeLife0321.indd 1 3/11/21 11:20 AMThe FIRM
OFFERS UNIQUE CHALLENGES TO NOVICE, PROFESSIONAL, SPECIAL FORCES DRIVERS
TRACK ALSO WILL HOST TRAVIS PASTRANA’S NITRO RALLYCROSS FOR NEXT FIVE YEARS
By Don Coble / don@opcfla.com
learning the basics of navigating high-speed corners, proper brak-
ing techniques and understanding how to shift gears. Others are
allowed on the road or rally courses, but their progress is closely
scrutinized. Professional level racers, use the diverse motorsports
facility has their personal playground. Photo Courtesy of Nitro Circus Photo Courtesy of Nitro Circus
One of the track’s regulars is Travis Pastrana, who’s won X
Games gold medals in supercross, motocross and rally racing. He “The rally driver is the most complete driver you can find,” also have filmed there
often comes to the track to evaluate it for possible future events. Wigham told racingcircuits.info. “He can drive on all surfaces, in all The FIRM has its own fleet of racing vehicles, including Jeeps,
“Between the [Sports Car Club of America] and our own events, kinds of conditions, in all vehicles – and that’s just what the military rally racers, trucks and road-course cars. Drivers also are allowed to
we probably have 1,000 customers a year go through here,” Van wants.” bring their own cars during open sessions.
Photo Courtesy of Nitro Circus
Buskirk said. Wigham invested $2 million in 2008 to create the 1.6-mile road “A lot of people who come here are trying to learn how to drive
Van Buskirk said about 200 go through the Rally school and course. Wigham then sold the track in 2012 to the investment firm, in competitive situations,” Van Buskirk said. “Not only do they learn
STARKE – Whether it be Seal Team Six, a weekend Walter Mitty another 500 go through classes for the road course. A lot of people The Strategic Group of Gainesville. something, they have a blast doing it.”
driver or professional race team looking for squeeze a little more may have more experience than they think they do. This is where IndyCar teams have tested at The FIRM ahead of the sea- For more information, visit gorally.com.
speed out of a car, the wheels never stop turning at the Florida they can find out.” son-opening road-course race at St. Petersburg. Disney and FOX
International Rally and Motorsport Park at the Keystone Heights The track evolved at what once as Crystal Lake Army Airfield
Airport. that quickly was known as the Keystone Army Airfield. It was used
The 420-acre complex has tracks for every high-speed obsession, to teach tactical combat techniques during World War II.
from novices learning how to shift gears to an off-road thrill-seeker Once the war was over, the base turned over the facility to the
looking to kick up a lot of dust, the sound of high-revving engines City of Keystone Heights as a private airport, but the airport’s con-
never dies just a couple miles west of town on State Road 100. nection to the military remains strong. Tame your yard with our
“We only close on Christmas and Thanksgiving,” said John Van “There is a lot of military training classes here because we can huge supply of the most
Buskirk, the tracks business development manager. “Other than simulate a lot of different situations they face,” Van Buskirk said. trusted names in power
that, we stay very busy.” “Special Forces, Seal Team Six, train here ahead of missions to refine equipment
The track was booked for open and private sessions for 26 of 28 their next assignment.”
days in February. In 1998, English rally driver Ivor Wigham set up the seven-mile
The paved road course is 1.6 miles long with 10 turns, banked European Rally School through the sand, scrub wood and pine for-
corners, hairpin and elevation changes. The course can be config- est on the corner of airport property.
ured to include extra chicanes to provide additional challenges to
the most-experienced racer.
The facility also has a pair of off-road rally courses that can be
configured to seven miles, a 1,700-foot-long skid pad made of lime
rock to learn car control and high-speed maneuvers and a half-mile
karting track.
Lake Area Small Engine
The FIRM can feed any need for speed.
“The combined tracks can be configured for 20 miles of racing,” “The Friendliest Shop in Town”
Van Buskirk said. 7333 Kyle Street, Unit 1 • Keystone Heights, FL
And they can be organized to fit any skill level.
Track officials evaluate new drivers. Some start in the classroom, Photo Courtesy of Nitro Circus 352-473-1212
26 • North Florida Regional Chamber • 2021 2021 • NorthFloridaChamber.com • 27LAKE AREA’S PREMIER REAL ESTATE TEAM
CLUBS
“Your Buying & Selling Team”
American Legion Post 153 - Lake Butler, Florida
Daniel Dukes- Post Commander
Larry Feltner- Vice Commander
Thomas Fortner- Post Adjutant
John Henry Whitehead- Service Officer The City of Hampton, Florida, located about six miles south
Gene Gordon- Post Chaplain of Starke was incorporated in 1893 and has gone through Todd Beals: 904-588-2083
Mission: Preserve our historic clubhouse for the community and future generations; Debbie Beals: 316-648-0595
phases of boom and busy throughout its history. Hamp-
provide service through educational, civic and social activities; mentor and serve as role The Post meets quarterly at 325 West Main Street on the third 510 S. Lawrence Blvd. (across from City Hall)
models for young women. Thursday at 7:00 pm in January, April, July and October each year. Coordination of the
ton was known as Crossroads primary because the Atlan-
Memorial Day Ceremony in May each year is a major responsibility. Quarterly meetings tic-to-Gulf railroad was built through the area in 1859 and
The Woman’s Club of Starke, formerly known as the Mother’s Club, was founded in are preceded by covered dish suppers where the Post furnishes fried chicken. the settlement grew up around it. Good farmland prompted was considered dangerous and the State Road Department
the late 19th century and held its’ meetings in the Bradford County High School. Their
Ted Barber, Past Commander further settlement and several small stores were established. re-routed Road 13 in the 1930’s to straighten the curve.
purpose was to assist the Bradford County High School and only mothers were accepted
A second railroad, the Georgia-Southern and Florida Rail Line, Hampton appeared to be dying, but when Camp Blanding’s
as active members with teachers as honorary members. One of their earliest projects was
furnishing a room in the school or a library and a study for the principal. They also pro- KIDS AT HEART passed through town a little later and prompted a boom. boom hit the area, the small town near Starke also benefit-
vided students with books and clothing and hired a janitor to do maintenance. In 1913, Crossroads was renamed Hampton when the first post office ed. Troops were carried to the camp on the train and their
Kiwanis International is a global community of clubs,
the Mother’s Club reorganized and changed its name to the Woman’s Club of Starke. One
members and partners dedicated to improving the lives was established in 1882. The town of Hampton, Florida was families rented rooms and homes in the town. When Bland-
year later, after the school relocated to a different site, the Woman’s Club began using ing’s boom ended, however, Hampton subsided back into the
the school building as its headquarters. In 1917, with the approach of World War I, the
of children one community at a time. Today, we stand named after a 10-year-old boy, Hampton Terry, whose father
building was turned over to the Red Cross. Club women made hospital blankets, Christ-
with more than 600,000 members from K-Kids to Key
owned a farm near the railroad tracks. sleepy little hamlet it is today.
Club to Kiwanis and many ages in between in more
mas kits for troops and shipped clothing to allies. In 1921, the Board of Education gave The town of Hampton, Florida was incorporated in 1893, If you need to get in touch with us you may reach us at City
than 80 countries. Each community has different needs,
the school building to Woman’s Club at which time it was remodeled. Some of the lumber
and Kiwanis empowers members to pursue creative but it also allowed its charter to lapse and had to be reincor- Hall or email and coh1@outlook.com.
from the original structure was used in the new construction. The new craftsman/bun-
ways to serve the needs of children, such as fighting porated in 1911 and 1925. The Big Freeze adversely affected For public records requests please contact:
galow building opened on November 3, 1922. Projects undertaken in the 1920’s by the
Woman’s Club included a drive to remove cows from the streets, development of a city
hunger, improving literacy and offering guidance.
Hampton’s economy-as it did any town which relied on or- Mary Lou Hildreth, MMC, RMLO
park and municipal suffrage.
Kiwanis clubs host nearly 150,000 service projects each anges and other agricultural crops and caused an end to the ADA Coordinator/City Administrator/City Clerk
year. boom. Rapid use of timber in the area led to an exhaustion of Public Records Custodian
The Bradford County Library used portions of the building and in 1936 was the first
county library in Florda allowed to borrow books from the State Library in Tallahassee. the crop and a decline of the timber industry around Hamp- City of Hampton • P. O. Drawer 250, Hampton, FL 32044
Our local Kiwanis Club of Starke Foundation contrib- Office: 352-468-1201 • Fax: 352-468-1350
Throughout World War II, the United Service Organization (USO) used the building as
utes to our local schools, The Dictionary Project, Brad- ton. With the timber and oranges declining, farmers turned to
a clubhouse where the Army YMCA entertained soldiers who were stationed at nearby
ford County Educational Foundation, FLYCA, 4-H Asso- cotton and strawberries. The town once had two cotton gins Cell: 352-235-0519
Camp Blanding Joint Training Center. Opening in April 1941 they provided minstrels, coh1@outlook.com• www.hamptonfl.com
radio programs, quiz
ciation, FFA, Sheriff’s Explorers, HIPPY, Rainbow Center, in operation. Hampton struggled to survive but as cars re-
Bradford County Library, Santa Fe College, Shop With
games, card games,
A Cop and many more projects.
placed trains as the main mode of travel, Hampton declined.
dances and vaudeville Road 13 (now US 301) was re-routed and bypassed Hamp- No Photo Available Mayor Dale Wiseman
shows for the soldiers.
ton. The road had a curve called the Hampton Curve, which No Photo Available Council Member Dorothy Shealey
Throughout its histo- Lake Butler Rotary Club #4372
ry, the Clubhouse has
continued to serve as Brad Whitehead- President
the community’s pri- Art Peterson-Past President
mary facility for social Tommy Spires- Secretary
and cultural events. Shane Collins- Treasurer
on April 18, 1997, the
Clubhouse was listed on Weekly luncheon meetings are held at noon on Tuesdays
the National Register at the Spires IGA Luncheon Room.
of Historic Places and
continues to serve as Service to the local community and support to international
the Woman’s Club of projects that promote health, education and peace and key objectives.
Starke headquarters.
Beautiful photo of the new Council Chairman Council Vice Chair Council Member Council Member
Rosenberg Family Foundation Memorial Garden
William “Bill” Goodge Douglas Williamson Frank Bryant Lillian Sams
28 • North Florida Regional Chamber • 2021 2021 • NorthFloridaChamber.com • 29Bradford County
Home * Town * Hero Public Library
STEVE FUTCH HELPS STARKE CITIZENS HONOR FAMILY MEMBERS
Steve Futch has spent a career
helping families tell their life
Every service is special, and many funerals have special requests.
“One family – whose loved one had a special horse – asked if the
Upscale design artistry
stories to Starke citizens. “A fu-
neral director is reminded every
horse could attend the visitation at the burial. We were able to pro-
vide that. The horse seemingly realized the situation. It was a very for your
day that life is brief, and every sad, poignant occasion.”
life is unique,” he says. Even though Steve no longer owns the funeral home, he is still dream wedding
“I was born in downtown a licensed funeral director and embalmer, and conducts occasional
Starke,” Steve recalls. “My dad
was the funeral director here,
services. And in recent years, he’s considered one of Starke’s most
active public servants.
The Bradford County Public Library and all your
opened its doors at the West Pratt
and I literally grew up on the
second floor, just above the Civic accomplishments
Street location in October 26, 2007. The
building is 24,000 square feet in size. The special occasions!
funeral home.” He served several terms as the town’s mayor, and on the city previous building, which was located on
Jackson Street, measured approximately
Jones Funeral Home – commission. He has been president of the Chamber of Commerce,
4,000 square feet. Specializing in
which opened around 1900 – and served the Development Council on Tourism. In 1979, he helped
was started by a hardware store owner who also built caskets. In the found the local Kiwanis Club, and served as its president.
The library supplies the community
with a variety of resources that include
•Weddings
early 20th century, many funeral homes evolved from firms that began While Starke’s mayor, he also served on the northeast chapter print material and online! The public has •Events
in either the furniture-making or hardware industries. of the Florida League of Cities. “It was a time when my wife and I access to study rooms, free wireless and
Steve recalls that he got a restricted drivers’ license at 14. He learned much about how municipal governments work, how important 32 internet computers. There is also an •Parties
on-site computer lab, which is frequently
needed a job, and his dad put him to work training as an EMS worker it is to bring in new business, and how to create jobs through support by students of nearly Santa Fe College
and driving an ambulance. Upon graduation from Starke High, Steve of technical colleges,” Steve says. and utilized by the library for public Com-
enrolled and graduated from Gupton-Jones Mortuary College in Steve and Cindy have two daughters: Stephanie is with a local puter Training Classes. Online resources
Atlanta. realtor, and Elizabeth is a licensed practical nurse. They also have include digital magazines, language learn-
ing programs and study guides.
Steve and his wife Cindy purchased the funeral home from Harold one granddaughter, Sydney.
To inspire creativity, stimulate thinking,
Johnson in 1984, and ran it until 2007, when it was bought by Joe “I could not have accomplished all this without the support develop skills, encourage social inter-
Gallagher, and renamed Jones-Gallagher. They now have locations of my wife Cindy,” Steve says. “And when we’re gone, we hope action and promote cultural awareness,
in Starke, Keystone Heights, and Green Cove Springs. we’ll be remembered as citizens who tried, day after day, to honor our the library hosts a variety of programs
“We had offers from some of the national funeral chains, but
we were not interested,” Steve says. “This is a personal service
neighbors and help
this town.”
for all ages. The staff stays in tune with
the changing needs of the community to 352.473.9201
provide services and opportunities that
business, helping friends celebrate their loved ones’ lives. We felt For Starke’s continue to be necessary. 370 S.E. Sylvan Way
those needs could be served best by a local owner.” citizens, the Futch-
es’ positive works Keystone Heights, FL
Horse mourner continue to leave Sandy@FlowerPetalsInc.com
Steve says that in a 47-year career he’s participated in more than lasting footprints on www.FlowerPetalsInc.com
5000 memorial services, and officiated at several. “As many may this region’s land-
remember, my dad was also an ordained minister, so he often gave scape.
eulogies.”
30 • North Florida Regional Chamber • 2021 2021 • NorthFloridaChamber.com • 31You can also read
