LAKE MARY -- The American flag flew at half staff at government offices and parks in Lake Mary in solemn respect for the 12th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
But other than the flags, it was business as usual on this mid-week day with more of the news in Lake Mary focused on the domestic squabble between George Zimmerman and his estranged wife, Shellie, that is being investigated by the Lake Mary cops.
Still, the 9/11 remembrance wasn't forgotten.
"It's something you'll always remember seeing the Twin Towers coming down, one shortly after another," said a woman enjoying a pizza with her husband and young son at a table outside the Flippers Pizzeria about 5:30 p.m.
An elderly man walking his dog in the park adjacent to City Hall said it feels like any other day, though he watched the anniversary TV coverage earlier in the day on the morning network talk shows.
"It still brings a tear to your eyes," he said, looking down.
Gov. Rick Scott issued a statement to Headline Surfer and other media outlets throughout the Sunshine State with his 9/11 anniversary message: “Today we honor those who lost their lives in the attacks of September 11, 2001 and pray for the survivors and family members who were affected that tragic day."
The governor continued, "We also reflect on the importance of our military, law enforcement and emergency responder heroes who serve and sacrifice to protect our families in Florida and our nation. Ann and I hope this day will further strengthen our honor and respect for all those who serve us, our love for this great nation, and the many freedoms we enjoy."
U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson also released a 9/11 statement to Headline Surfer and other Florida media outlets, stating in part: Sept. 11, 2001 was one of the most tragic days in our nation’s history - and, one that no American should ever forget. Today, at the Congressional Remembrance Ceremony, I had a chance to reflect on the past 12 years like so many other Americans are doing across the country. With heavy hearts we look back, remembering some 3,000 people who lost their lives. But, I hope we can also recall the unity we felt in the days and months immediately after that attack.
Nelson added, "To truly honor those we remember today, let’s recommit ourselves to embodying that unified spirit. Let’s honor those who died that day by living our lives not just bravely, but with kindness and compassion to one another each and every day. And, let’s keep all those affected by the events 12 years ago in our thoughts and prayers.
Earlier in the day, ceremonies were held at Ground Zero in New York City, at the Pentagon, and the field in Shanksville, Pa., where one of the hijacked planes crashed.
FAST FACTS: Trailhead Park (Cross Seminole Trail), Lake Mary, FL
Headline Surfer photos by Henry Frederick / These images were shot on Wednesday at the intersection of Rinehart Road and Lake Mary Boulevard in Lake Mary, FL. Traffic is shown on Rinehart Road heading into the intersection with Lake Mary Boulevard and the fountains in front of scenic Trailhead Park.