DeBary mayor makes test run for raft trip from Cuba

PONCE INLET, Fla. — DeBary Mayor Clint Johnson plans to test his sea legs Friday night in preparation for his trip to Cuba.
 
Johnson announced he plans to fly to Cuba, build a raft and float back to the U.S. despite warnings and requests from the U.S. Coast Guard that he not do so.
 
Johnson pushed off from a boat ramp at around 4 p.m. on Friday in Ponce Inlet.
 
Johnson said the trip is not a publicity stunt.
 
He said he wants to make the trip for the adventure and hopes to document the journey.
 
"I don't think I'm making light of it. I'm just making sure I'm preparing myself the best I can," Johnson said.
 
Johnson plans to stay the night on the raft and float toward Ormond Beach. During his last test run, he broke an oarlock on the raft.

Cox Media Group