VOLUME 2 ISSUE 2 SERVING YULEE, HILLIARD, BRYCEVILLE , FERNANDINA BEACH AND CALLAHAN January 14, 2010

FREE NEWSPAPER

The Nassau NewsThe Nassau NewsP

OS

TAL

PATR

ON

THE

NA

SS

AU

NEW

SP.

O. B

ox 8

37Yu

lee,

FL

3204

1

PR

SR

T S

TDU

.S. P

OS

TAG

EPA

IDc

ALL

AH

AN

, FL

Per

mit

No.

50

F E r n a n d I n a B E a c h h I L L I a r dc a L L a h a n y U L E E

Kayaks open new opportunitiesPage 4

By Lauren JonesEditor

yULEE GIrL’S SOccErThe Yulee High School’s girl’s soccer team

might only be a season and a half old, but as Captain Kayla Robbins puts it, “…in a few years, the Yulee High School girl’s team will be a force to be reckoned with.”

Head Coach Kasey Thigpen has been coaching soccer for four years and this is her first year at Yulee High as a coach.

There were 30 girls at tryouts. “Having the girls and having the talent is not a problem. It’s been very easy in that sense. They work well together.”

Thigpen says the challenges of working with a new team are getting the support they need to get the right equipment as well as the moral support from the school system. She says there is no lack of motivation from the players. All of them are passionate and work well together, despite the challenges and growing pains of a new team.

“Despite all of that, we’ve won 300 percent more games this year than we did last year,” Thigpen says.

“I have girls playing out there, who if they play for the next four years, could probably get scholarships, girls who have never played before and are [now] starters. They are just amazing. They work hard. They love being a part of something, they love the game and they are very excited.”

Thigpen says when you start out some-

where, the learning curve is exponential and that they’ve come a long way in a short time.

“They know where to cover and where to back up. It is a strong team.”

Captain Kayla Robbins is a senior and edi-tor of the Yulee High School paper. Thigpen says she works incredibly hard and is dedi-cated to everything she does.

Natalie Watt is the co-captain and is only a sophomore. She is part of the band and does winter guard and color guard. “She’s very smart and does well in her classes. She is a great all around athlete and has good leader-ship qualities.”

Irena Qualls started out never playing soc-cer before in her life and has become one of the team’s most recognizable players. She is on defense and is described as aggressive and a fast learner by Thigpen.

Captain Robbins says, “The soccer team is starting to get a feel of what playing as a team feels like. We are growing on each other and learning each other’s strengths and weakness-es. Our team is brand new, we just started it last year. We are starting to become a team to be recognized. We are slowly but surely start-ing to beat teams that have been around for a while at our game level.”

The girls played Trinity Christian last week and beat them with a final score of 3 to 1. They lost to them the first time 1 to 0. Co-captain Natalie Watt scored one of those and Alexis Crouch scored two. Robbins reports that goalie Morgan Day took a ball to the face and played the rest of the game with a

bloody lip.“Give me four years and you better look

out,” Thigpen said. She says developing a new team is not about wins and losess, it’s about the growth and the right motivation and ded-ication to get the team going.

yULEE BOy’S SOccErThe boys soccer team at Yulee High

School, “just won’t go away,” according to a Bolles School soccer player’s parent talking to a Yulee High School’s parent in the stands at a game. At this particular game, Bolles School beat Yulee, but had to work hard to do so.

Bolles’ soccer team is more established and has a much better record. But for them to say they had to work hard certainly says some-thing about the strength of Yulee’s new team.

Head coach Chris Pagel has been teaching soccer for years and coached at Fernandina Beach High School. He is currently teaching third grade at Yulee Elementary.

The challenge of the new team is cohesion. They are learning what teamwork is about and taking the time to make good shots and attack. But the improvements have been many. From the seasoned players to the guys who are just now learning soccer, they are all playing their hardest. They’re sound and the defense has made the best improvements.

Senior Seth Creel is the goalie and has worked well with the defense.

Pagel has tried to let the team develop their attitude together and figure out who

they are as a team. He says they are slowly but surely doing so. They are being dubbed by other teams as persistent.

Ashton Morlote is a junior and contrib-utes to the basic knowledge base of the team. His ball skills are what make him center-mid and sweeper.

Pagel has a goal of being head of the over-all soccer program. “In not too many years, I’d love to see four teams at Yulee.” He says there is no reason there shouldn’t be a varsity and junior varsity team for the boys and the girls. He knows that will not be hard with the number of students who have come for tryouts.

“I love the game and if I’ve got that many kids out there playing soccer every year, then soccer’s doing pretty good. And if that hap-pens, the quality of the play on the varsity level should be will come.”

Pagel says he tends to become disappoint-ed after a loss. But when he sits back and looks at where the team was in the beginning and at how much they have improved, he realizes the strength of the team. He strives for perfection, but also realizes the leaps and bounds the team has overcome.

“It’s like watching your own kid grow up. You see them every day and don’t realize how far they have come.

We may not be putting up W’s (winning games) but we’re playing some much better soccer and that’s all I can hope for.”

Photos courtesty of Florentino Morlote

Yulee’s soccer teams not going anywhere

By Lauren JonesEditor

Bill Di Stanisloa, director of spa operations at The Spa at Amelia Island Plantation says the spa’s success lies in its employees. It’s a trickle down effect, he says.

“Our number one customers are our em-ployees. If they are treated well, then it trickles down to the services they provide for their cli-ents. And the clients will come back.” He be-lieves in giving his employees the proper tools and treating them as they deserve to be treated. “No one works for anyone. We are a family.”

Di Stanisloa says they have regular clients, not just guests who are staying at the resort. Everyone who comes in is a client, not a guest. He says that is partly because they are the low-est priced spa located on a resort, and he says you can research that. They provide the utmost quality of services for their clients.

Di Stanisloa has the background to make that happen. He has been with The Spa since the 1990s and has studied everything from ho-listic health, cosmetology and massage therapy.

He opened new spas throughout his career but admits when he was called for the job at the Plantation while he was working for a spa in Boca Raton, he had never heard of the Planta-tion.

He loved the place instantly. He liked that it is its own building, apart from the hotel lobby. He says clients cannot have the full experience of a spa when it is in a hotel building with peo-ple shuffling by and interrupting their massage or facial.

He says the spa has all the elements it needs to provide the perfect spa reality. It has a bal-ance of wood, fire, water and metal. When you walk it, you smell the aromatherapy and feel at ease with the light colored wood and calming music.

They don’t just serve their clients, they edu-cate them on the massage they receive or the steps that go into a facial.

The 13,400 square-foot salon has 24 treat-ment rooms, 12 salon stations and includes 1,000 square feet of retail space. The relaxation area has reclining chairs looking out over an oasis of water and an actual treehouse, where

clients can go to yoga classes and relax. The spa is also part of the green program and

has mostly organic products. “We break the mold of resorts. We are not

a golden marble spa. We are family-oriented. We have something for every member of the family.”

The Spa breaks the mold of resorts

Bill Di Stanisloa, director of operations at The Spa has been with the company since the 1990’s.

2 The Nassau News | January 14, 2010

Printed on recycled paper

For advertising information, call Lamar Williams at 904-225-5100 or 904-349-1405, or send e-mail to lamar@thenassaunews.com.

The publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising space deemed unsuitable for placement in this publication.

Letters to the editor are welcomed and encouraged, but subject to editing at the editor’s discretion. Editor is not responsible for errors of content or omissions. Facts and statements expressed in letters are not necessarily those of The Nassau News. When submitting letters please include your name, address, occupation and telephone number. If your letter is printed, only your name, occupation and neighborhood will be listed. Submissions may be edited for space. All content is copyrighted and may not be reprinted, copied, or reproduced without written permission from the publisher. ©2009. To submit a story idea or letter to the editor, call 904-225-5100 or send e-mail to laurenjones@thenassaunews.com. Mail can be sent to : THE NASSAU NEWS, PO Box 837,Yulee, FL 32041.

FernandinaBeach

Hilliard

Callahan

Yulee

BrycevilleGovernMenT

MeeTinGS

Your weekly community newspaper.

Publisher: Ray Fountain

editor: Lauren Jones

General Manager / Sales: Lamar Williams

Distribution / Sales: Shirley Fountain

Creative Director: Jessica Woodrum

TheNassau News

LETTER to the EdiToR

CRimE BeatThese reports are based on information supplied by the Nassau County Sheriff’s Office. Anyone whose name appears in the reports can contact The Nassau News if the case is dismissed, charges are reduced, or they are acquitted of the charges. Call 225-5100, or e-mail

laurenjones@thenassaunews.com. Please be prepared to provide documentation of the developments.

Following are upcoming public

meetings in Nassau County.

COUNTY COMMISSION (Commission chambers at the James S. Page Government Complex, 96135 Nassau Place in Yulee. They can be reached at 904-491-7380.)

9 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 206 p.m. Monday, Jan. 25

SCHOOL BOARD (Nassau County School Board District Office building, 1201 Atlantic Ave., Fernandina Beach, unless otherwise noted. They can be reached at 904-491-9900)

6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 146:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 28

FERNANDINA BEACH CITY COMMISSION (Their office can be reached at 904-227-7305.)

6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 19 6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 2

CALLAHAN TOWN COUNCIL (Their office can be reached at 904-879-3801.)

7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 18 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 1

HILLIARD TOWN COUNCIL (Their office can be reached at 614-876-7361, ext. 789..)

7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 21 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 4

Monday, January 4

Holly Morgan, 37 of Guyton, GA was arrested for failing to appear in court for petit theft and temporary unauthorized use of a vehicle.

Amanda Bozeman, 25 of Callahan was arrested for violation of parole for child neglect.

Joseph Hocker, 33 of Leesburg, GA was ar-rested for failing to appear in court for affray, (threatening violence) and riots.

Glen Long, 20 of Jacksonville was arrested for making harassing phone calls, false imprison-ment, battery and temporary unauthorized use of a vehicle.

Lavone Hutchinson, 23 of Fernandina Beach was arrested for dealing in stolen property and accessory after the fact to robbery. He tried to pawn a Wii system worth $300.

Bianca Fraiser, 22 of Kingsland, GA was ar-rested for dealing in stolen property. She tried to pawn a Wii system worth $300.

Barbara Perry, 42 of Hilliard was arrested for possession of cocaine.

Tuesday, January 5

vincent Smith, 32 of Jacksonville was arrested for violation of parole for dealing in stolen property.

Joshua Pierce, 28 of Callahan was arrested for violation of parole for fleeing and eluding a police officer.

Shane Snipes, 36 of Yulee was arrested for violation of parole for obtaining a controlled substance by withholding information.

John roswan, 40 of Hilliard was arrested for writ of attachment for child support, (court order to seize property).

Dean Haddock, 46 of Yulee was arrested for having an open container in a vehicle, DUI and possession of marijuana.

Shawn Perry, 38 of Yulee was arrested for viola-tion of injunction. There had been an injunction for protect against him since 2006.

Jennifer Brazell, 26 of Kingsland, GA was arrested for violation of parole for violation of injunction in result of battery and fraudulent use of a credit card.

Paul Delmar, 40 of Fernandina Beach was ar-rested for violation of parole for DUI and driving without a license, suspended or revoked.

LesaJo Crosby, 21 of Callahan was arrested for violation of parole for uttering a forged bill.

Wednesday, January 6

Lonnie Mosely, 31 of Jacksonville was ar-rested for writ of attachment.

edward Thomas, 38 of Tampa was arrested for failing to appear in court for reckless driving.

Clarence Cranford, 44 of Jacksonville was arrested for writ of attachment.

robert Davis, 18 of Hilliard was arrested for aggravated battery.

robert Starling, 51 of Jacksonville was arrest-ed for failing to appear in court for disorderly intoxication.

etta Cunningham, 35 of Jacksonville was arrested for failing to appear in court twice for driving without a license, suspended or revoked and not having vehicle registration.

Kama Gainey, 32 of Fernandina Beach was arrested under two Duval County warrants for driving with a license, suspended or revoked.

Heather edinfield, 32 of Baldwin, FL was ar-rested for false verification of ownership.

Michelle Mobley, 31 of Hilliard was arrested for violation of parole for aggravated battery.

everette Way, 48 of Fernandina Beach was arrested for domestic battery.

Cristy Stewart, 21 of Jacksonville was arrested for violation of parole for grand theft.

Thursday, January 7

William ross, 18 of Fernandina Beach was arrested for aggravated battery, hitting the victim in the head with a beer bottle.

Sara Degan-Smith, 21 of Portland, OR was arrested for failing to appear in court for pos-session of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

Jorge Morgan, 21 of Jacksonville was arrested for violation of parole for escaping from a detention center.

Justin ramsey, 20 of Fernandina Beach was arrested for violation of parole.

edwin Laney, 51 of Hilliard was arrested for failing to register as a sexual offender.

Jerod Jones, 28 of Fernandina Beach was arrested for violation of parole for aggravated battery.

Laurel Harden, 53 of Yulee was arrested for having methamphetamine lab, burglary to a vehicle and grand theft.

Friday, January 8

randel Hill, 20 of Fernandina Beach was arrested for aggravated assault, criminal mis-chief, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle and violation of injunction.

James Morrow, 35 of Yulee was arrested for burglary, grand theft and dealing in stolen property.

James Woods, 28 of Yulee was arrested for burglary to a vehicle and grand theft.

Andrew Gmelin, 27 of Yulee was arrested for aggravated child abuse.

Kimberly White, 41 of Jacksonville was ar-rested for failing to appear in court for having an improper tag.

Anthony Green, Jr., 20 of Daytona Beach was arrested for failing to appear in court for pos-session of marijuana.

Chandler Cox, 18 of Winter Garden, FL was arrested for possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

rose White, 21 of Fernandina Beach was ar-rested for driving without a license, suspended or revoked.

Brandon Chancey, 34 of Folkston, GA was ar-rested for possesion of drug paraphernalia.

Tamara White, 41 of New Port Richey was ar-rested for failing to appear in court for driving without a license, suspended or revoked, pos-session of a suspended license and accumula-tion of junk.

saTurday, January 9

Johnell richo, 60 of Fernandina Beach was arrested for domestic battery. He verbally threatened to kill his wife.

Jeffrey Smyklo, 51 of Jacksonville was ar-rested for driving without a license, suspended or revoked with knowledge.

Sabrina Pikulski, 39 of Jacksonville was ar-rested for driving without a license, suspended or revoked.

sunday, January 10

Homer Wiggins, Jr., 28 of Fernandina Beach was arrested for retail theft, disorderly intoxica-tion and possession of a concealed weapon. He tried to steal a bottle of wine from a CVS by hiding it in his pants.

Monday, January 11

Joe McCorkel, 62 of Hilliard was arrested for failing to appear in court for violation of parole for driving without a license, suspended or revoked with knowledge.

Fresh • Wild • Caught Seafood

LOFTON CREEK SEAFOOD

• Shrimp• Whiting• Flounder• Mullet• Grouper Fillets• Live CrabsNOW ACCEPTING EBT

• Softshell Crabs• Crab Cakes• Deviled Crab• Snow Crab Legs• Scallops• and more

Bait & Tackle Shrimp Bait

JumboShrimp5 lbs $25

Live Blue Crabs

$12 a dozen

Bushels Oysters

$36

of

1/2 Bushels Oysters

$18

of

Happy Sack Oysters

$10

of

OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK • Tues-Thurs 10-6pm • Fri-Sun 8-6pm 463477 SR 200 / A1A • Yulee • (904) 548-0803

I recently received a copy of the Decem-ber 24, 2009 issue of The Nassau News from my parents, John and Kathy Stevenson. I just wanted to say thanks for actually doing the story. I think it really lets those who read it know how supportive and gracious the people in the Yulee/Fernandina Bch. area are,  espe-cially of those who are deployed.

 Thanks again! 

First Lieutenant Neil Stevenson (stationed in Afghanistan)

HolidaySPECIA

L$69

95

Whole house steam

cleaned.

Up to 2,000 sq. ft.

January 14, 2010| The Nassau News 3

If we lived in New Orleans, we would be entering the season of revelry leading up to Mardi Gras – a grand celebration held before the reflective season of Lent. The tradition of King Cakes kicks off the start of this 40-day celebration. These colorful cakes are hidden with a surprise, often a tiny plastic figurine of the baby Jesus, meant to symbolize the search of the magic for the Christ child. Many faith traditions tell stories of those who seek God – this is just one of them.

Seeking God is only half of the journey. What hap-pens when we find God in the stables of our cities, our neighborhoods, our souls?

The King Cakes are decorated with three colors, as are many Mardi Gras beads – purple, rep-resenting justice; green, represent-ing faith; and gold, representing power. This rainbow of colorful themes is fitting for this week

when we honor the life of Martin Luther King, Jr., one whose life was a testament to what is possible when faith, justice and power in-

tersect. He had faith – in God, in himself and in others. He sought justice and equality. He used his personal power for good and not destruction. And he was a dreamer – he looked beyond cur-rent reality to what is possible.

Adversity doesn’t wipe out dreams. Poverty doesn’t wipe out dreams. Chal-lenges don’t wipe out

dreams. Sometimes, what is hard only makes our dreams stronger.

I have a dream that one day Christians and radical Muslims will be able to sit down together at the table of brotherhood. I have a dream that one day corporate vice-presidents and soccer moms will

be able to sit down at the table of sisterhood. I have a dream that gay teenagers won’t feel abandoned by their community. I have a dream that church will be more life-giving than judgmental. You have dreams too. I hope we muster even an inkling of the stamina lived out in Martin Luther King, Jr. so that we might put feet to just one of our dreams with the conviction he evidenced.

Old Testament prophets in Christian scripture looked forward to a day when “every valley shall be exalted, every hill and moun-tain shall be made low, the rough places will be made plain, and the crooked places will be made straight.” That’s what dreams do – they look for how to encounter the rough places. With faith, we will be able to hew out of the moun-tain of despair a stone of hope.

In King’s famous Promised Land speech, he said, “This will be the day when all of God’s children will be able to sing with a new meaning, ‘My country, ‘tis of thee,

sweet land of liberty, of thee I sing. Land where my fathers died, land of the pilgrim’s pride, from every mountainside, let freedom ring.’” Because he knew the truth of jus-tice would set people free.

Let’s keep doing it. Let freedom ring where gunshots rang out last night. Let freedom ring where tears fell from abused. Let freedom ring where needles burst into veins last night. Let freedom ring on our doorsteps.

We are the ones now. It’s up to us to dream. We are the voice in the silence; the light in the dark-ness. We are the hope among de-spair. We are the creativity among stagnancy.

We are the ones waiting for the newborn dreams within and around us to be born.

Rev. Mary Kendrick Moore is the pastor of New Vision Congregation-al Church, a new church in Yulee affiliated with the United Church of Christ. For more information, visit www.NewVisionCongregational-Church.org.

Obituaries

Pastorally Speaking

Rev. Mary

Kendrick Moore

GREEN PINENassau CouNty’s oNly Full serviCe FUNERAL HOME & Cemetery 904-261-0876

Amelia Island,Fernandina Beach, Yulee

Online Obituaries & Condolences at www.greenpinefuneral.com

The Water BoysGot Stinky Water?

Nothing else is made like or works like the Eradicator.

It even removes

iron!

The SmartChoice© EradicatorIt has proven itself to be VERY EFFECTIVE in

REMOVING SULFUR and IRON from your water.

We can bring the Water Wagon to your home to fix the problem.

Call Bob Chavers at 904.608.5669

Estelle Vanzant Anderson

Estelle Vanzant Anderson, 93, of Yulee, passed away on January 7 in Yulee at home with her children.

Mrs. Anderson was born in Kings Ferry, Florida on May 27, 1916. She moved to Yu-lee when she married Ira Anderson on Christ-mas Eve, 1937. She was a longtime member of Blackrock Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ira E. Anderson; her fa-ther and mother, Harvey and Lillian Vanzant; her grandparents who raised her from an infant, Tom and Jeanette Libby; brother, Clinton Lib-by and sisters, Olive Libby Jones and Josephine Vanzant Seagraves.

She is survived by her four children, Fred-die Anderson, Lynette Willyoung, Ruth Brew-er (Larry) and Sandra Boyett. She has seven grandchildren, Andrea Anderson Rushford, Kimberly Willyoung Gray, Eric Willyoung, Melissa Brewer Brown, Greg Brewer, Tate Boy-ett and Michael Boyett. She has eleven great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. She has one sister in law, Juanita Libby.

Pallbearers were Eric Willyoung, Greg Brew-er, Tate Boyett, Michael Boyett, Ron Rushford and Van Seagraves. Honorary pallbearers were Billy Anderson, David Peeples and John Itak.

Funeral services were held Monday, Janu-ary 11 at Blackrock Baptist Church with Rev. Michael Bowen officiating. Interment followed in the family burial estate at Green Pine Cem-etery. The family received friends on Monday as well.

Arrangements by Green Pine Funeral Home, Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach, Yulee.

Making healthy choices never looked or felt so good!

Lose Weight This New Year

(904) 261-4318961687 Gateway Blvd. • Suite 101-J • Amelia Island, FL 32034

www.mwmcamelia.com

Mention ad for a

FREE GIFT!

Insure your home and cars right where you live.

Email or call us todayPaulSchwend@aol.com

Callahan (904) 879-1958 | Yulee (904) 225-0748 | Jacksonville (904) 786-1362

Auto | Home | Life | Mobile Home

Coastal Square

Bales Now

Available

HAY FOR SALE!Fresh Round Bales

$35, $45, $55

904-334-3489Must dial just area code with number, no long distance.

Pick up in Hilliard or will deliver 10 or more.

Adversity can only make our dreams stronger

Test Your Knowledge

Trivia by Maggie “The TriviaMeisTer”

1. What and where was the lowest temperature ever recorded in the US?

2. What was Michael Jordan’s number with the Chicago Bulls?

3. Often mistaken for a flamingo, what is the other pink FL wading bird sometimes seen in our area?

4. What is the national capital of Canada?

5. For Kids Only: What is the quietest sport?

ANSWERS: 1. -80 F, Jan 1971 along the Alaska Pipeline at Prospect Creek Camp 2. #23 3. Roseate Spoonbill 4. JOttawa, in SE Ontario 5. Bowling, because you can hear a pin drop!

Test your knowledge every Wednesday at 7

p.m. at the crab Trab in downtown

Fernandina Beach. (One of these

questions will be featured at the

next trivia show.)

billsvideodesign@vpweb.com

freeStandard Mounting Bracket

(up to 40”) with Installation

Ask for details - Restrictions apply

Bill’s Video Design

Professional Flat Panel Installations

& Home Theater

904-415-5311

4 The Nassau News | January 14, 2010

(Continued from last week’s column)

4) Handling this 2009 tax preparation chore yourself and handling it correctly will require eight to 31 (or more) hours to ac-complish (for details read page 98 of the 2009 1040 Form in-structions. IRS Forms and instructions are available for download from IRS web site at www.IRS.gov.) This,

of course, assumes you are doing it yourself without licensed professional assistance.

5) Read carefully and especially pages 6 and 7 of the 2009 1040 instructions to get a brief outline of the more-prominent “What’s New” list for both 2009 and 2010.

6) Taxpayers who have overseas invest-ments, financial accounts, sole proprietor-ships, are currently shareholders of “S” cor-porations, those who operate businesses more like a hobby than a “for profit” business, are taxpayers who deal in cold cash and/or barter all have a far greater risk of being audited by the IRS and losing such audits for 2009 and thereafter. You need to see your tax profes-sional ASAP and schedule your office visits to see what you can and must do now to suc-cessfully avoid liability for potential hundreds to thousands of dollars in additional taxes, penalties and interest, and in some cases, even potentially criminal charges. Contact Tho-mas Avery Blair, Enrolled Agent, in Callahan toll-free at 1-888-250-5687 or visit web site address http://www.TomBlairEA.com.

Ask for your FREE copy of the 2009 In-dividual Income Tax Organizer by e-mailing info@TomBlairEA.com and putting the word “Organizer” in your reference line. You will get a copy back via e-mail.

Whether your outlet is fishing, hunting or just pure leisure, a kayak will open up worlds of new opportunities. I recently received a phone call from a friend down south inquiring about fishing out of a kayak, what designs are best suited for fishing and price ranges. I told him my personal opinions about different kayaks and different ways of setting them up. After our conversation, I realized just how little people ac-tually know about these economical machines and the potential joys of owning one.

I have fished out of a kayak for about four years now and can assure you it is by far the best thing that I ever invested in. I grew up fishing our local creeks and rivers out of skiffs and Jon boats and actually own one of each. The sad thing is they never get used. Yes, a boat does have its advantages but the kayak outways all of them for me.

First off, anyone who stops at the gas pump knows the heartache of a fill up. Boat owners not only have to top off the truck, but keep the pump running, pull up about ten feet and throw down on more gallons of over priced petro. I do not know your situation but I personally cannot finan-cially take on too many of those gas station trips. I have never had to drop one ounce of gas or oil into my kayak.

The next thing that comes to mind is boat maintenance and upkeep. Unless you happen to be a professional shade tree mechanic, a boat is an endless money hole. Motor problems (es-pecially with the ethanol problems boat owners have been scratching their heads over) props, bilge pumps, wiring, steering and trailers are just a few of the things you will have problems with. The last time I checked, the only motor on my kayak was my two arms and fortunately I have not had to put them in the shop yet.

Speaking of arms, not only is a kayak a great outlet for fishing but a wonderful way to shed

a few pounds. With the New Year under way, many have dedicated their resolutions to getting in shape and weight loss. If you love to fish or spend quality time outdoors, the kayak is a great tool to not only have fun but shed a few un-wanted pounds.

That being said, here are a few things to think about if you are interested in kayak fishing. First off, there are hundreds of different ones and different setups out there. Ranging from a few hundred dollars to over three thousand, there is something for all interests.

There are two different types as well. The older more conventional kayak is a sit-inside. These kayaks tend to cut through water a little easier and are great for a lot of surface chop. If you are interested in the sit-in type, there is a local business that rents them out daily. Kayak Amelia is conveniently located on Simpson’s Creek, off Heckscher Drive. Just a short drive from the south end of Amelia Island, they have daily tours available for all ages.

The other type of kayak is the sit-on-top style and is what I own. The sit-on type offers a little more freedom to move around, which is key if you are fishing. The wider the kayak the better stability. Mine is around fifty-five inches wide and I can easily stand up and fish if need be. It does not tack through water as well as narrower kayaks, but I try to stay within a mile or two of where I launch and I also fish for only a couple of hours.

If you are interested in a kayak in which you

can fish all day with limited stress, try a Hobie kayak with the Mirage Pedal System. These kay-aks are the sit-on types but are essentially hands free. You use your hands only to control the rud-der for steering or to drop the anchor out to fish. They are propelled by a pedal system that resem-bles a bicycle set up. These things are awesome.

If you are still not sold on kayaks, let me of-fer up one more thing. Hobie has recently re-leased a new boat called the Mirage Pro Angler. I recently spoke with Ingrid Niehaus, who is a Hobie representative, and she passed on some information about this unique boat.

“Hobie has taken the defining features used in their kayak line, the patented Mirage Pedal Drive System and combined it with their boat designing capabilities to build a first in class, no gas required, 100 percent fishing machine. This boat has been selling as fast as it has been being produced.”

From what I have seen, the previous state-ment is a fact. I like to call it the Cadillac of all kayaks. The boat is capable of hauling every-thing including a full live well. If you are inter-ested in any of Hobie’s items, check them out at www.hobiecat.com. They will also direct you to the closest dealer. If you are interested in other kayaks or kayak fishing in general, try www.jaxkayakfishing.com. You will be able to carry on discussions with local anglers about different kayaks and even places to fish.

Until next time, good luck in all your out-door activities and be safe out there.

nassau outdoors

Ryan Conner

Tax TipsThomas Avery

Blair

Card Connection

To advertise in the Card Connection call 904-386-2403To advertise in the Card Connection call 904-386-2403

Hair Care

Ladies Shampoo & Style $19 & upLadies Shampoo, Cut & Style $29 & upMen’s Cut $25Men’s Cut & Style $30Beard Trim $15 & upChildren’s Cut & Style $25 & upColor & Style $85

Color Only (per color) $60Full Highlights & Style $80 & upPartial Highlights $65 & upPermanent & Style $75 & upUp Do & Style $65 & upBridal Consult- Hair $65 & upBridal Consult- Makeup $45 & upDamage Remedy $35Hair & Scalp $29

Never a Service Charge. Gratuity at clients discretion.

*We also specialize in ethnic hair.

It’s Happy Hour all month at The Salon at Amelia Island Plantation.

Every Monday thru Friday from 5-7pm, take advantage of discounts on select salon retail items and sip on complimentary beer, wine or champagne!

We offer a full array of spa and salon products for all ages!

www.spaamelia.com Visit our website for a full menu of our servicesLic. #MM0001741

Open 7 Days a Week • 904-432-2220 • 6800 First Coast Hwy • Amelia Island, FL 32034

Holiday Gift Cards make the perfect present

The Nassau News

adVErTISE TOday!

904-349-1405or

904-386-2403

reaching your local client base.

BLOCKER’S SEPTICSERVICE, INC.

ROBERT BLOCKEROFFICE: 904-225-5265CELL: 904-759-9355

24 HOUR TURN AROUND

H 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE H Lic.# SA0081472

Pump Outs

Drain Fields

4-4 Forms

Letter of Inspection

Abandonments

Pump Installations

Yulee One StOp!!• Pizza • Subs • Burgers • Wings • Ice Cream

• Birthday Parties (Call for reservations) • Daily Specials and Low Prices • Drive Through / Pick-up

Best Food in town

Food & Fuel24/7

Hwy 17 & Harts Rd. • 904-225-5111

Googleus!

drink or ice cream with this ad and purchase of a meal.FRee

accept eBt

Kayaks open a world of new opportunities

Photo courtesy of Hobie

Tax Season Tips for 2010

January 14, 2010| The Nassau News 5

Get The Nassau News delivered to your home todayThe Nassau NewsThe Nassau NewsFill out this form and mail it to P.O. Box 837 Yulee, FL 32041.Name ___________________________________________

Address___________________________________________

___________________________________________

Phone#___________________________________________

PaymentType

Credit Card Information

Nameoncard______________________________________

Billingaddress______________________________________

Card# ___________________________________________

CreditCard Check Please make your check for $30.00 to The Nassau News.

OnLY

$30a year

777 Games“Where

Luck’s on

Your Side”Drawings Fri. & Sat Nights!New Games: Keno, Pot of God, Hocus Pocus, Halloween Party and More!

Drawing for a Flatscreen TV on superbowl sunday!

Mon: Ladies’ Day (10 for 10) • Tues: Men’s Day (Drawings)

Wed: Senior’s Day (Drawings) Open 7 Days!

Dinner served at 6:30 p.m. Friday & saturday NightsLocated at the Ship Inn Motel on U.S. 1, Callahan. Call for directions 879-7300

Big Screen

TV maTch Play eVeryDay!

NEXT TO THE MOVIE THEATER1114 South 14th St. | Fernandina Beach | (904) 206-4414

www.club14fitness.com

28 & 29

1

• Total prize purse of $3000

• Mens’ and Womens’ categories

• Special Circuit Classes• Diet set-up and

follow-up clinics

Landon Kovalick - SeniorFernandina Beach High School - Boy’s Soccer

Landon Kovalick has been playing soccer for 12 years. He loves the combinations of fitness and skill required. “It’s the most physically challenging sport there is.” Landon moved to HIlliard when he was seven, then five years ago he moved to Yulee. He chose to go to Fernandina specifically for the soccer team.

Landon is an honor roll student and participant in the NHS & Interact Club. He was one of the three seniors nominated by the NHS seniors to compete for the NHS scholorship.

STuDenTS OF THE WEEK

Marcus allen - Sophomore Hilliard Middle-Senior High School - Boy’s Basketball

Marcus Allen first started playing basketball in sixth grade because he wanted to be part of a team sport. He enjoys seeing

the results from working hard on the team.Marcus likes playing for and attending Hilliard because of the

friendliness of everyone around him. “It’s like a real big family.”Marcus is a straight-A student and a member of the Overcomers Club. When he is not at school he is on his computer or playing

basketball with his friends.

Joseph Matos - SeniorWest Nassau High School - Boy’s Soccer

When Joseph was in ninth grade one of the opposing team’s parents came over and asked who the “superman” on the field was. It was Joseph, he has had the nickname ever since.

Joseph was the first in his family to pick up soccer but he now has two younger brothers following in his footsteps. When he graduates he plans on going to FSCJ and then on to UNF to either study French or respiratory therapy. In March he will be attending a French competition where he could win a scholarship.

ashton Morlote - Junior Yulee High School - Boy’s Soccer

The Yulee soccer team may still be new but Ashton is no stranger to soccer. He has been playing since he was four. He loves the quick pace of the game and how it makes you think the whole time. Coach Pagel said that he was, “the all around best player.”

Ashton moved to Yulee his freshman year. He likes living in Yulee because you know everyone. When Ashton graduates he plans on

following his sister’s footsteps and attending USF where he wants to major in broadcast journalism.

Dear Chairman Boyle and Commissioners:On Nov. 29, 2007, following a $13 billion

run on the assets of the SBA’s Local Govern-ment Investment Pool (LGIP), the SBA trustees announced a temporary freeze on the remain-ing $14 billion of assets in the LGIP. These as-sets belonged to approximately 1,000 different government entities within the state of Florida.

On Dec. 4,2007, the State Board of Admin-istration (SBA) established a separate Fund B within the LGIP and moved $2 billion in dis-tressed assets (14%) from the LGIP into Fund B, with a goal of liquidating the assets over time. The remaining $12 billion (86%) in the LGIP was renamed Fund A and partially un-frozen. Investors were given two options with regard to Fund A assets:

1) Withdraw up to 15% of their share of Fund A penalty-free, or

2) Withdraw all dollars in Fund A subject to a 2% redemption fee.

At the time these events unfolded, Nassau County had approximately $55.6 million in-vested with the SBA in the LGIP. After the split, $47.8 million was in Fund A and $7.8 million was in Fund B.

The SBA eventually allowed all dollars in Fund A to be withdrawn without penalty. The entire $47.8 million of Nassau County Fund A investments were liquidated and withdrawn without incident or redemption fees and in-vested elsewhere.

Today, the underlying assets in Fund B con-sist mostly of distressed mortgages. Nassau County receives monthly principal and inter-est payments from these mortgage pools and additional principal payments as assets are liq-uidated. As of 09/30/09, Nassau County had withdrawn approximately $5.7 million (73%)of the initial $7.8million of FundBassets.

The remaining assets in Fund B on 09/30/09 had an estimated market value of $1,134,632.02 and a book value of $2,066,152.85. The differ-ence of $931,520.83 represents Nassau Coun-ty’s expected loss. In recognition of this poten-tial loss, $503,969.53 was reserved in fiscal year 2007/08 and an additional $427,55.30 was set aside in fiscal year 2008/09.

While it is impossible to know the exact out-come over time, it is recommended that the Board write off the $931,520.83 already re-

Letter to the commissioners

By Bill hughes

First, a disclaimer about last week’s article. The first tip read, “…a surge suppressor is a lightning arrestor.” Only your utility company can install something that greatly reduces the ef-fects of a direct lightning strike. A good surge suppressor will take the hit but more than likely some surge/voltage will pass through it.

Here’s a question I get a lot. Home theater in a box (HTIB) or individual components? First, the basics for a good home theater system involve five speakers and a sub-woofer (5.1), a surround receiver and typically some version of a BluRay player, (I prefer my PS3 to do that job) and some version of television media. (Cable, Satellite or off-air antenna)

HTIB generally comes as a surround sound receiver with a built-in DVD player. That DVD player can be BluRay if you pay a little more money. Five speakers, a subwoofer, remote con-trol and an am/fm antenna will typically cost the

consumer less money than piecing components.Drawbacks are the lack of expansion capabili-

ties. Most HTIB’s have very limited inputs and outputs so if you have a lot of equipment, make sure the HTIB you are considering can handle your stuff.

I prefer individual components. I can mix and match all the pieces to exactly meet my needs. Number of inputs necessary, speaker size and locations, even brand names and cost.

Don’t get me wrong. There are a lot of really good HTIB’s out there and it is pretty nice to pull everything you need out of one box, hook up color coded wires and viola, movie time!

If you have any questions or would like to see a particular topic covered, shoot me a com-ment at my BVD facebook site or email me at billsvideodesign@yahoo.com.

Bill Hughes is the owner of Bill’s Video Design, 96178 Sea Winds Dr., Fernandina Beach. He can be reached at 904-415-5311 or by e-mail at billsvideodesign@vpweb.com.

Home theater in a box or not?

Letter cont. on page 7

6 The Nassau News | January 14, 2010

Behold the Green & Gold

Inside the HiveStudent Buzz

Sophmore Page McClellan“Videos of me and my friends.”

What is your favorite thing to upload to YouTube?

Freshman James Mabe“Comedy videos.”

Junior Tia Hood“Covers.”

Chris Mathis, YHS freshman

Q: What types of videos do you upload?A: Funny, entertaining videos.

Q: What is your channel name?A: www.youtube.com/insanechris14

Q: How long have you been uploading videos on Youtube?A: Almost a year now.

Q: Do you write scripts or just do whatever comes to mind?A: I don’t write scripts. I think just being spontaneous shows my true personality instead of making it all professional with a prewritten script

Q: Do you use a green screen?A: Yes, I do. That way I can add any type of effects I want to my videos.

Q: What kind of props do you use? A: None usually. I did do one vidoe about a talking orange ball and I used a basketball for - guess what - the orange ball.

Q: Do you ever think making videos will turn into a career?A: Yes. My dream is to move to California when I’m 18 to do stand up comedy and just enjoy making, editing, and acting in videos.

YouTube is the 10th most-visited website on the internet, but that’s no surprise to students at Yulee High School. YHS Hornets, like other YouTube consumers, search the website for all kinds of videos, from music to instructions on how to fold clothes. The word on campus is that you can find just about anything on YouTube. Chase Lanier, YHS senior, says the variety is one of the things he like best about the site. Variety is only one of the big attractions of YouTube. Another is that individual people can make videos and

by Taylor oldakerby James haffner

Photo by Kasey Philman

Chris Mathis lets his personality show on the videos he makes for YouTube.

Hornets Show Creative Side on Internet

by kaTie bain upload them free for public viewing. YHS senior Eric LeBlanc says he usually uploads “me and my friends doing random things”, unlike some people who actually write scripts for their YouTube videos. Once a video is uploaded, users like LeBlanc send emails to friends to let them know about the new upload so they can watch for themselves. Individuals like LeBlanc have a “channel” on YouTube which works similarly to a home page on a website or a profile page on MySpace. People around the world can see the videos on the channel and click the “subscribe” button if they like the collection of

videos so they can go back and re-watch the videos. LeBlanc’s channel is named “aintanerd”. “I think the best video on my channel is the one where I answered questions,” says LeBlanc. “It was definitely the one that was the most fun to make.” There are things that students would like to be change about YouTube, despite its popularity. Lanier says it’s frustrating because “you can’t do a ‘related’ search; it has to be a search for

a specific thing.” LeBlanc notes that the policies about using copyrighted music inhibit creativity. But even so, YouTube remains on the top of their favorite websites list.

Senior Seth Bodine“Anything. It just depends on what I’m in the mood to upload.”

(l) Chase Lanier, YHS senior, enjoys both watching and uploading YouTube videos.

Photo by Katie Bain

Photos by Taylor Oldaker

News for and by the Yulee Middle School

On Friday, January 8, 2010, Yulee Middle School held its annual Spelling Bee. Mr. Phil Hendrix, 8th grade Language Arts teacher, has hosted the Spelling Bee at Yulee Middle School for the last 5 years and says, “I was very proud of the level the students spelled at this year. It was exciting to see how competitive the end of the Spelling Bee really was, more so than any other year.” Most teachers at YMS say that the selection for this year’s Bee was tough. Students were given a standard spelling test of challenging words with their Language Arts teacher just before Christmas Break. The top two scorers were then selected and recommended by each Language Arts teacher. Mrs. Davidson, 8th grade teacher at YMS said, “Believe it or not, most students were very excited about the prospect of being in the Spelling Bee. My top two spellers, Bella Gonzalez and Alyssa Frame were my only two students to score a perfect score on the original spelling test, however, I had many students to only miss one.” The winner of the YMS Spelling Bee this year was Madison Bussey, the 1st runner up was Mikayla Sproul, and the third runner up was Alyssa Frame. YMS is so proud of our Spelling Bee winner, runners up, and all of the finalists! Students like these make us all proud to be a Yulee Hornet.

January 13thGuest Speaker for 8th grade students

January 26thBasketball Tournament at Callahan Middle School

January 18thno School – M.L.K Day

January 21stend of grading period

January 22ndno School – Planning Day

YULEE MiddLE SCHooL UpCoMing EvEnTS

Mr. Phil Hendrix and the spelling bee winner, Madison Bussey.

YMS Students = Great Spellers!!

Mr. Phil Hendrix with Madison Bussey, (right) and Mikayla Sproul, (left).

Spelling Bee finalists.

January 14, 2010| The Nassau News 7

CLASSIFIEDSCLASSIFIEDS

S&S Moving Services

Locally Owned & Operated

Competitive Rates Packing & Crating AvailableServing All of Nassau County

• In Home Moves• Apartment & Condo Moves• Piano & Hottubs

• Office Moves• Big Screen TVs• Free Estimates

904-482-2990 Licensed & Insured25 Years Experience

Mention this Ad For A Special

Discount!we load and unload your trucks

served, and bring the book value of Fund B assets in line with the 09/30/09 estimated market value. Recognizing the recommended write-off now rather that waiting for the final maturities of the

remaining assets only raises certainty in sound budget planning going forward. Sincerely, John A. Crawford, Clerk of the Circuit Court

Letters Cont. from page 5

Advertise in the Classifieds. ONLY $5 PER 25 WORDS OR LESS!! CALL 904-386-2403Love Seat for sale Sand color New asking $125. Call 443-629-3349. 55 gallon screw top drums -$25.00 a piece. regu-lar 55 gallon plastic drums- $15.00 a piece. Call (912)473-2302 or (912)258-6130.

iTeMS neeDeD

Wanted to buy 16 to 24 ft travel trailer. (904) 501-4858.

MoBiLe HoMe For renT

3 Br/ 2 BA mobile home on 1 acre, $750/mo & $700/dep. NO PETS. (904)753-2155.

ServiCeS

Jerry Lee Pressure Washing, Average one-story home $125 Roof, decks, driveways & pool decks, 30 years experience. Dirt, mildew and mold GONE! 904-993-6434 or 904-662-1628

Lawn Care $20 and up. Mowing, Edging, Line Trim-ming, Clean up. Northeast Florida Lawn Services 225-9058.

Save 50% on all your fuel and food expenses! www.half-price-gas.com For more information call 904-277-0911.

Karate Classes. Ages five and up. Mondays and Wednesdays from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. City residents: $40/month. Non-city residents: $45/month. Will be at the Atlantic Boulevard Recreation Center. Call Instruc-tor Jerry Williamson at 904-753-3605.

Affordable DJ and Karaoke service. 140,000 mp3’s and 130,000 Karaoke songs. Dance lights and fog machines available. Private parties, company parties, and bar/lounge experience. djlamar@partywithdjlamar.com or 904-349-1405.

AuToMoTive

Convertible top for a 4dr jeep asking $100.00. Call 443-629-3349.

r.v. 24ft Coachmen 5th wheel for sale. Call 904-501-4858.

33’ rv for rent or sale. References and No PETS (904)501-4858.

2003 Keystone Springbale 5th wheel R.V. length 25 ft. one slide out ch/air stove/oven microwave and refrigerator, sleeps 4 unit in good condition. Asking $7100.00 or obo. Call 904-845-3258.

BuiLDinG For SALe

1 acre with commercial building and property for sale $280,000. Callahan area. (904)759-3986.

HAnDY MAn SeCTion

HandyMan Pro - Whatever needs to be done, no mat-ter the size, I will be there to help you. Call Bill (904) 993-2583.

HeLP WAnTeD

Get paid to wave. Temporary daytime opportunity. Must be outgoing and energetic. No experience neces-sary. Call 904-310-6273.

HoMeS For renT

2 Br/2BA --Beautiful new décor. $480.00-$675.00/month. Includes water, lawn. Possible RTO (904)315-1757 or 613-8401.

3Br/2Ba Brick Home in Hilliard w/swimming pool. $950.00 monthly $500.00 sec deposit. With references, no pets. Call 904-501-4858.

Amelia Lakes Fall Special1&2 Bed Luxury Condos Starting at $799/mo. Gated, Waterfront Community Resort-Style Pool, Tennis Courts, 24/7 Fitness Center, Vol-leyball, & more! Call Jessica at 904-415-6969 www.amelialakes.com.

iTeMS For SALe

electric Golf Cart with cover and charger for $1800. Call 443-629-3349.

ARWOOD WASTE Southeast’s Largest LocallyOwned Waste Company Offering: Curbside Pick-up,Front Load Service and Roll-off Dumpsters.GUARANTEED LOWEST PRICE. Order online atwww.arwoodwaste.com or call 305-7534. 9910

AuToMoTive

iTeMS For SALeHAnDY MAn

HoMeS For renT

ServiCeSBuiLDinG For SALe

MoBiLe HoMe For renT

iTeMS neeDeD

HeLP WAnTeD

8 The Nassau News | January 14, 2010

LILLISTON FORD MURCURYSUPERBOWL SALE!

SALE STARTS

AT 9:00 a.m. SHARP!

SALE STARTS

AT 9:00 a.m. SHARP!

ALL CASH SALE PRICES ARE AFTER ALL INCENTIVES, PICTURES FOR ILLUSTRATION ONLY, ALL VEHICLES ARE SUBJECT TO PRIOR SALE

2010 ford taurusSTK #129580

$32,350a must to drive!

2010 ford mustangSTK #135174

$23,950classic!

2010 ford focusSTK #182055

$16,900gas saver!

2010 ford fusionSTK #115926

$21,750car of the year!

2010 ford f-150STK #AG1463

$25,850supercab!

2010 ford f-150STK #A35481

$28,650super crew!

2010 ford EscapESTK #A87816

$21,820gas saver!

2010 ford EdgESTK #A35481

$32,730sport package!

ford raptordrive one

today!

2010 ford f-150STK #A27624

$42,1054X4 king ranch sc!

2010 ford ExplorErSTK #A19723

sporty!

2010 mErcury milan

$23,984best seller

2010 mErcury marinEr

$22,968drive one!

ford flExjust arrived!

now in

stock!

2010 mErcury grand marquis

$26,978luXury sedan!

2010 mErcury mountainEEr

$29,971eXciting!

no mattEr whErE you’vE sEEn it, rEad it, or hEard it, lilliston ford mErcury will bEat it!

ALL CASH SALE PRICES ARE AFTER ALL DISCOUNTS. ADD TAX AND TITLE FEES. PICTURES FOR ILLUSTRATION ONLY. ALL VEHICLES SUBJECT TO PRIOR SALE.

2030 Hwy. 40 East • Kingsland, GA

510-3673www.i95ford.com

the place where you get a great

deal and a great deal more!

2008 ford taurusleather

$14,939

2008 ford fusionleather

$12,972

2009 nissan vErsaonly 27,468 miles!

$11,5072009 toyota matrix

$15,690

2006 ford f-1504X2cpo

$16,995

2002 mazda miata

$7,9502001 chryslEr

300-m

$14,999only

2008 kia sEdona sport

25,000 miles!

$3,500only

2003 pontiac grand am

$4,995

2003 nissan sEntra

$10,453

1994 ford f-150

$3,500

automatica/c

$12,990

2006 hondacivic

$37,690

2008 ford f-350 4x4

crew, lariat, diesel

2006 ford rangEr4X4, s/c

$14,370

2006 chEvy silvErado4x4, s/C, z71

$20,370

2007 honda accordloaded

$13,998