Clerk of Court proposes county history video for tourism and schools

Mary Giustino, public information officer for the Clerk of Court, presented an early‑stage proposal on Feb. 20 for a comprehensive Clay County history video intended for tourism promotion, classroom use and preservation of archival material.

Giustino said the Clerk’s historical archives division regularly hosts school and public tours and is now proposing a 20–30 minute video that would showcase historical landmarks, neighborhood stories and natural settings in Green Cove Springs, Middleburg, Fleming Island, Orange Park, Keystone Heights, Penny Farms and other communities. She said the video would be designed to align with school curriculum so it could be used in classroom instruction and to support existing programs such as "Celebrate Clay History Week."

Giustino said the archives division and the county’s nonprofit, Clay County Archives Inc., could serve as the fiscal agent for sponsorships and grants. She said county grants staff were already searching for possible state funding opportunities to support production costs. Giustino emphasized the proposal is in its infancy and that any future funding requests to the TDC would return with price estimates and a recommended funding approach.

Council response and next steps Members expressed support for a high‑quality production that could be used across schools, tourism promotions and local events. Council members noted related local productions (Green Cove Springs’ 150th anniversary video) and encouraged coordination with municipal partners and school curriculum leaders to ensure broad representation. Giustino said the archives office would convene partners and return with a cost estimate and a request for assistance if needed.

Ending No funding decision was made at the meeting. Giustino said she would return with budget estimates and a proposal for how the TDC and archives nonprofit might collaborate on funding or sponsorship.