Ocala Gazette | January 15 - 21, 2021 by Magnolia Media Company

VOLUME 1 ISSUE 29

Martin Luther King Jr. Day January 18

See page 7

JANUARY 15 - JANUARY 21, 2021

Marion County marks 500 COVID-19 deaths By Brendan Farrell Ocala Gazette

16.6% daily positivity rate and 3.6 COVIDrelated deaths per day from Jan. 7 to Jan. 13. Marion is also 17th out of Florida’s 67 counties in deaths per 100,000 people with 142, according to The New York Times. Of the county’s 21,210 cases, the vast majority of cases have been reported from people younger than

arion County reached a grim milestone in the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic this week reaching and surpassing 20,000 positive cases and 500 deaths. According to the Department of Health in Marion County, the county averaged 287.3 cases per day with a See COVID Deaths, page 9

By the Numbers: COVID-19 Death rates in Florida County

Total Cases

Total Deaths

Deaths per Death Rate 100,000 Ranking

Union

1,556

433

Citrus

7,469

287

192

Marion

20,537

504

138

Putnam

4,549

115

Sumter

5,975

122

Lake

17,973

334

Alachua

17,614

139

Franklin

1,017

*As of Monday, January 11

Vaccine pain

Robert Stetson of On Top of the World, right, gets the Moderna COVID-19 vaccination from Crystal Keele. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]

Plenty of vaccine sites, but doses short By Brendan Farrell Ocala Gazette

arion County has multiple sites ready to vaccinate those 65 and older against COVID-19 and more on the way. The problem is vaccines are coming in at a trickle. The Heart of Florida Health Center held a vaccine event recently and is ready to do more. Marion County Publix supermarkets,

through a pilot program with the state, also started offering vaccines. And the local health department is working with AdventHealth Ocala and local fire and emergency management in hopes of opening a vaccination center at the Paddock Mall. Trinity Clinic is partnering with the Reilly Arts Center with plans to open a vaccine site that is completely operated by volunteers. But the flow of vaccines has not caught up with those ready to vaccinate.

In the three weeks since vaccinations started in Marion County, 10,034 have been dispensed. First came healthcare workers, and for the last week, those 65 and older. But those first doses went fast. The Florida Department of Health in Marion County, which gets the bulk of the vaccines, suspended registration for people 65 and up after receiving more See Vaccine, page 9

Local task force pushes human trafficking awareness By Ainslie Lee Ocala Gazette

he first documented case of human trafficking in Ocala was more than a decade ago when John Dillinger Morgan was charged with pimping two teenage girls out of an Ocala-area motel in 2010. The Marion County Human Trafficking Task Force launched soon after. Morgan eventually got 15 years in state prison for sex trafficking and is serving his sentence at Calhoun Correctional Institution in Blountstown. He is scheduled for release in 2023. Unfortunately, more cases followed, and the task force continues its work. This month, the task force, which is a partnership between members of the Ocala Police Department and the Marion County Sheriff ’s Office, is pushing for awareness during January, National Slavery & Human Trafficking Prevention Month. Donna Guinn, the victim/ witness advocate supervisor for OPD, says January is all about advocating and educating people for a cause that is abstract to many. According to OPD’s website, human trafficking is commonly referred to as “modern day slavery” and is a global phenomenon involving obtaining or maintaining labor or services from another by the use of force, fraud or coercion in violation of the individual’s human rights. The Ocala Police Department puts an emphasis on human trafficking during orientation when new officers join the force, Guinn said. But educating the public on signs of human trafficking is just as important, she stresses. “Heroes come in many forms,” Guinn said. “Sometimes it’s the airline stewardess who just says something just doesn’t look right.” The task force works diligently to get information into the right hands. Most recently, Guinn and others within the task force have been providing local hotels and motels with posters to display. The poster advertises the National Human See Human Trafficking, page 2

Florida House budget chief warns of looming cuts By Jim Turner News Service of Florida TALLAHASSEE – With the coronavirus pandemic significantly reducing state tax revenues, the House appropriations chairman told his committee Wednesday to expect budget cuts. And don’t anticipate that possible additional federal assistance will cover the projected shortfall. “We do not build our budget

based on assumptions as to what Congress may or may not do,” Appropriations Chairman Jay Trumbull, R-Panama City, said as his committee held its first meeting to prepare for the annual legislative session. “It’s incumbent upon this body to make decisions as with our fiscal health, as it relates to today, without any understanding of whether or not Congress is going to give extra money,” Trumbull continued. “Because the reality is, we don’t have

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an idea how much they’re going to give, if they’re going to give anything, and what strings would be associated with that gift.” Rep. Joe Geller, an Aventura Democrat who spurred Trumbull’s comment about potential federal relief, suggested the committee set up a “parallel track” for its financial planning so “we are prepared to be able to put whatever we get to full use.” A panel of state economists last month projected reductions in state

general revenue of $3.3 billion over two years, an improvement from an August outlook projecting the hit at $5.4 billion. Information provided for the committee meeting pointed to a projected $2.75 billion generalrevenue deficit for the fiscal 20212022 budget, which lawmakers will negotiate during the upcoming session. Cuts could be spread across multiple budget areas, from See Budget Cuts, page 6

Inside: Opinion..................................... 2 Hungry Bear Necessity.......... 5 State News................................ 6 Creative’s Corner.................... 10 Sports........................................ 12 Calendar................................... 15

JANUARY 15 - JANUARY 21, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Opinion We the mob Gazette Editorial Board

uring his visit to the border wall in Alamo, Texas on Tuesday, and again after he was impeached Wednesday, President Donald Trump made statements that, for the first time in a very long time, we should all be able to agree with: The president called for peace and calm in the days leading up to the inauguration. His critics will say these words are hollow coming from a man who for months called on his supporters to rise up and overturn an election that wasn’t really stolen. You can’t be the one telling everyone to remain calm after you yelled fire in a crowded theater, after all. But he can, and he should. The president’s calls for peace are welcomed, however belatedly, especially at a moment of piqued national tension. Because we no longer are talking about

the potential for anarchy and violence. We are already there. We saw it with our own eyes on January 6, 2021. We watched as a political protest exploded into a riot, and a riot boiled over into an insurrection. And here’s the thing that should really frighten us: That may have been just a glimpse of how dreadfully violent and chaotic things could become if we continue down this road. Because, you see, the president didn’t act alone when he exhorted the crowd on to the Capitol. We are the mob. We are the ones on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter venting our anger, calling names, demonizing others with such certitude as to imply that our very republic will collapse if our opponents’ ideology isn’t vanquished. What we saw at the Capitol was the next logical step to that thinking – the application of force to vanquish those we believe perpetuate that evil and

corrupt ideology. We gave tacit, in some cases explicit, permission to the mayhem. What we saw was the mainstreaming of American extremism. Supporters of President Trump will point out, correctly, that the majority of those who marched to the Capitol did not breach its walls and were not violent. But the tip of the spear is just a sharp rock without the weight of the spear behind it, propelling it with accuracy and force. We – ordinary Americans – are the spear. People of every political stripe propel our more militant neighbors with our searing imprecations, delivered through our computers and phones from the safety of our sofas. We broadcast our ugliest, angriest thoughts, believing they are free of repercussions and consequences. But they are not. As the nation debates whether Donald John Trump incited an

insurrection in the Capitol, each of us should look inward at our complicity in this and other acts of violence. On January 6, it was Trump supporters. During the summer, it was agitators looting and burning during otherwise peaceful protests over police brutality toward AfricanAmericans. Anger and volatility are not the sole possessions of one party or ideology. This is not a call to reject partisan politics. As iron sharpens iron, so does dissent and disagreement sharpen this nation we love. Rather, this is an appeal to express that disagreement peacefully and with dignity. It is a petition to, as Abraham Lincoln said in his inaugural address, when the nation was fracturing around him, heed “the better angels of our nature.” It begins with each of us. We would like to leave you – Republican and Democrat, conservative and liberal alike – with a

prayer that expresses this sentiment better than we ever could. It is the prayer of St. Francis of Assisi: Lord make Me an instrument of Your peace Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon. Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope. Where there is darkness, light. Where there is sadness joy. O Divine master grant that I may Not so much seek to be consoled as to console To be understood, as to understand. To be loved. as to love For it’s in giving that we receive And it’s in pardoning that we are pardoned And it’s in dying that we are born... To eternal life.

Agencies work to reduce pet overpopulation By Susan Smiley-Height Ocala Gazette

olving pet overpopulation in Ocala and Marion County has long been a challenge, but a new partnership hopes to reduce those numbers. The Humane Society of Marion County and TLC Petsnip are working together to cut the number of unwanted pets born every year. The Humane Society, which has been active in the community for more than 50 years, is a nonprofit, no-kill

shelter. TLC, a high-volume spay/neuter and wellness clinic, was founded in 2012 in Polk County and opened a facility in Ocala in 2018. They operate a third in Hillsborough County. “TLC has a reputation of providing quality services at a discounted price. The HSMC saw an opportunity where we could subsidize spay and neuters through TLC. Therefore, they could do more surgeries on feral cats, as well as pit bulls, which make up for a large portion of the animals in our shelters. Each month, TLC provides us with a list showing how many animals

Kellsea Joles, a sterile technician, tends to a chihuahua mixed breed in the small dog post op recovery room after he was fixed at TLC Petsnip. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]

received surgery with our funding,” said Eddie Leedy, executive director of the local Humane Society. Lisa Gray, director of development for TLC, said the organization’s primary mission is to end euthanasia as a way of population control by making spay/ neuter services affordable and accessible to every pet owner. “Our partnership with the Humane Society of Marion County allows us to provide services to select groups each month at free or at greatly reduced prices,” Gray said. “We work collaboratively to provide pet care to the residents of Marion County.” TLC PetSnip also provides spay/neuter services to the shelter’s animals before adoption. The Human Society’s donations helped pay for more than 2,000 sterilizations and other services at TLC. “Together, we are working collaboratively to better the lives of pets in the county,” Gray said. TLC also offers vaccines, heartworm treatment, preventative services and treats minor injuries and illnesses. “We cater to a lowerincome demographic,” Gray noted, “but our services are

Hannah Chumney, a lead surgery technician from Lakeland, caring to a cat preparing to be fixed at TLC Petsnip. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]

open to everyone.” Leedy said that HSMC recently agreed to help pay for some minor surgeries or heartworm tests that clients can’t afford. Adopted Human Society animals get a free wellness exam. TLC provides some of those exams. The goal is to establish a relationship between a veterinarian and a new pet owner. There are more than 365,000 people in Marion County, and estimates put the pet population at more than 150,000. Besides the Humane Society and TLC, numerous other agencies work to help animals, including Marion County Animal Services, the Voices of Change

Animal League and two branches of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, among others. Before adopting a new pet, Leedy encourages people to learn as much as they can about an animal. He said the agency has a very successful “seniors for seniors” program to match older pets and owners. Before every adoption, Humane Society counselors work to match the right pet with the right person. “Our goal is to assist the new owner in every possible way to assure the adoption is a success,” he said. To learn more about the partnership between HSMC and TLC, visit thehsmc.org and tlcpetsnip.org.

evidence of being controlled, signs of abuse or battering and lack of identification. Runaway children and those in the foster care system are also more vulnerable to be victimized. “Having the public understand what it looks like (is important),” Guinn said. “If someone isn’t allowed to talk to me or they appear to be living there, it’s okay to call that in. It could be a restaurant. It could be a nail salon. It could be

anybody.” Human trafficking is an estimated $36 billion world-wide industry and is tied with the illegal arms trade for the second most profitable illegal trade in the world. Drug dealing is first. If you or someone you know is a victim of human trafficking, the National Human Trafficking Hotline can be reached at 888-3737888.

From Human Trafficking, page 1 Trafficking Hotline, as well as other means of getting help. Educating medical staffs on what to look for and how to report possible trafficking incidents has also been a priority for the task force. “We’re just trying to shed some light on it in different ways,” Guinn said. “You can’t lump any one victim together with another.” According to Guinn, while each case of human trafficking is different,

there are often common denominators such as victims feeling like they owe someone for providing them clothing, food and shelter. “It’s a perfect way to exploit someone,” Guinn said. However, the exploitation isn’t always sexual. According to Guinn, labor exploitation is another medium of trafficking seen in Ocala. For example, children can be exploited for labor to try and raise money

for an organization that doesn’t exist. “More often than not, it’s someone they know and trust,” Guinn said. “That’s the exploiter.” Helping the public understand some of the signs someone might display if they are being trafficked or forced into labor is one of the task force’s main objectives. According to OPD’s website, a victim of human trafficking might display

JANUARY 15 - JANUARY 21 , 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Marion County Public Schools announces finalists for Teacher of the Year “Our liberty depends on the freedom of the press, and that cannot be limited without being lost.” - Thomas Jefferson

Publisher Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@magnoliamediaco.com

Carlos Medina, Managing Editor carlos@ocalagazette.com Bruce Ackerman, Photography Editor bruce@ocalagazette.com Ainslie Lee, Associate Editor ainslie@ocalagazette.com Brendan Farrell, Reporter brendan@ocalagazette.com

By Brendan Farrell Ocala Gazette

arion County Superintendent Diane Gullett and a group of school board members showed up unannounced at five teachers’ classrooms on Friday to surprise them with Golden Apples as a reward for being a finalist for Marion County 2021 Teacher of the Year. Heather Nesbitt (North Marion High), Daphne Butler (North Marion Middle), Christine Fernandez (Shady Hill Elementary), Christopher Lanza (Ward-Highlands Elementary) and Tina Otero (West Port High) all received their Golden Apples. Additionally, Emma Dingman, a voluntary pre-kindergarten

teacher at Emerald Shores Elementary, was honored as the county’s 2021 Rookie Teacher of the Year. All finalists for 2021 Teacher of the Year have had at least four years of classroom experience. Nesbitt teaches agriculture science at North Marion High. This is her fourth year in the district and her fifth year as a teacher overall. Butler is an intensive reading teacher at North Marion Middle. Her career stretches over 10 years, and she has taught in the district since 2014. Fernandez, who teaches both kindergarten and first grade, started teaching in the district in 2013 as part of her three decades of teaching experience. Lanza began teaching in the district in 2005. A media specialist

at Ward-Highlands, he is an instructor for media production classes and computer-based literacy courses. He has been teaching for 21 years. Otero is an English teacher at West Port. She has been teaching since 2008 and has been in the MCPS system since 2010. All six teachers, along with dozens of other school-based teachers of the year, will be featured during a live event on Jan. 22, at the Webber Center on the College of Central Florida campus in Ocala. The event will be broadcast live at 7 p.m. on the Marion Education Channel and online at www.youtube.com/ MCPSmedia. Marion County’s 2021 Teacher of the Year also will win a new car compliments of Jenkins Auto Group.

Lisa McGinnes, Editor lisa@magnoliamediaco.com Susan Smiley-Height, Editor susan@magnoliamediaco.com

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Marion County launches partnership school By Brendan Farrell Ocala Gazette

he United Way of Marion County launched the county’s first community partnership school College Park Elementary this week. “We’re hoping that College Park is going to be that neighborhood center that is the heart of the community,” Principal Teresa Forsyth said. “And bringing together all these different sectors of the family, the educators, business leaders and local government and all working to give kids the access that they need to education by improving the family, the whole family.” The “community partnership school model” involves a relationship between groups like a school district, a university or college, a community-based nonprofit, a healthcare provider and others. The model is supposed to assist schools in meeting the needs of the community through their partners. Forsyth mentioned that they were helping with mentoring, health care, language classes, career training and more. “The community partnership model focuses on providing a multitude of services to students and families served by College Park Elementary,” Scot Quintel, president and CEO of United

Way of Marion County, said in a release. “This two-generation poverty alleviation model helps children with their education as well as advancing the skills of the adults so their family can become more financially stable, have better access to healthcare and increase their educational attainment.” Marion County Public Schools, Public Education Foundation of Marion County, Ocala Health and the College of Central Florida have all partnered with the United Way of Marion County for the

community partnership school at College Park Elementary. “As a huge supporter of community partnership schools, I know what an incredible impact this has on the lives of our children and their families,” Marion County Public Schools Superintendent Diane Gullett said during a virtual ribbon-cutting event on Thursday. “We know that we can’t truly meet the needs academically of our students unless we are committed to meeting the needs of all of the aspects of their life.”

Rosa Paz, wellness coordinator for the program, looks over the food pantry that is part of the services offered at College Park Elementary. [Submitted]

JANUARY 15 - JANUARY 21, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Fiber optic internet coming to some remote schools By Ainslie Lee Ocala Gazette

ollowing approval during Tuesday night’s Marion County School Board meeting, improved internet will be coming to some of the county’s more remote schools. After Marion County Public School requested fiber optic internet services for Dunnellon Elementary, Dunnellon Middle, Dunnellon High, Romeo Elementary and to the District Data Center, located at 420 SE Alvarez Ave., the board put out a request for bids. After reviewing the three bids, the board’s evaluation committee selected Ocala Fiber Network. The Ocala-owned provider beat out Cox Business and Netsync Network Solutions for the

agreement. The agreement is effective from Jan. 12 through June 30, 2024. However, services and billing won’t start until July 1. According to the Board, OFN’s services will run MCPS $475,488 through the length of the agreement. Currently, the four school sites in question have a 1GB circuit, while the District Data Center has a 10GB circuit. With the new agreement, listed schools will maintain 1GB, with an upgrade capability of 10GB. Meanwhile, the data center will have an upgrade capability of 40GB. OFN’s services will fall within the Universal Service Support Mechanism for Schools and Libraries, commonly known as the E-Rate

program. According to the Federal Communications Commission’s website, “The FCC’s E-Rate program makes telecommunications and information services more affordable for schools and libraries. “With funding from the universal service fund, E-Rate provides discounts for telecommunications, internet access and internal connections to eligible schools and libraries.” According to the FCC, the program’s discounts range from 20 to 90%, depending on the poverty level of the schools. According to the Universal Service Administrative Company, MCPS filed four funding requests with E-Rate in 2020 and each resulted in a 90% discount.

Ocala Civic Theatre opens 2021 with “I Hate Hamlet” By Lisa McGinnes Ocala Gazette

cala Civic Theatre’s new offering has all the best Shakespearean elements: a quick-footed sword fight, the angst of unconsummated love, bits of slightly suggestive humor, witty repartee and men in tights, complete with codpiece. But you don’t have to be a fan of the 16th-century bard to enjoy the comedy “I Hate Hamlet.” “What I want to underline to most people is – it’s not Shakespeare. If you’re not a fan of

Shakespeare, even more reason to come,” said Larry Lesher, who is directing the play. When the curtain opens, flashes of lightning reveal Andrew Rally’s new digs. Fresh off the set of his canceled 1980s TV show, Rally (James R. Taylor III) is starting over in New York City. He’s landed the part of Hamlet with Shakespeare in the Park, and his real estate agent has moved him into the gothic penthouse lair of the late actor John Barrymore, renowned as “the American Hamlet.” “You belong here,” realtor Felicia Dantine (Fran R. Maurino) declares in a

Fran Maurino, left, and Trafton Crandall. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]

nasally New York accent. “It’s a match – you and Barrymore.” There’s just one problem – Rally hates Hamlet. But his girlfriend, Deidre McDavey (Megan Wager), loves Shakespeare, and the exuberant 29-year-old virgin is keeping him celibate. “No sex … Trafton Crandall, Fran Maurino and Bonnie Chenevert, left to right. [Bruce Ackerman/ Shakespeare Ocala Gazette] … it’s like high school,” Rally laments. the stage or return to his girlfriend is a bright spot, When television roots. His decision and Crandall is jocular as Barrymore’s ghost is further complicated by the slick West Coast pal in (Jason Vaughn) his Hollywood producer the “Miami Vice” suit. returns to his buddy, Gary Peter Lefkowitz As Lesher points out, former residence (Trafton Crandall), who “I Hate Hamlet” by Paul to haunt Rally, arrives with a big-money Rudnick is a well-written the over-the-top, network offer. play – funny, but with tights-wearing, To be Hamlet or not to be some meaningful themes booze-swilling Hamlet, that is the question. and moments. And OCT’s specter can’t The six-person cast production makes it a leave until Rally doesn’t miss a beat dishing thoroughly entertaining plays the role out the witty dialogue. evening of live theater. of the Danish Vaughn is hilarious “I Hate Hamlet” runs prince. Barrymore as Barrymore’s ghost, through Feb. 7 with socially urges Rally, and Taylor portrays an distanced performances at “Shakespeare is endearing, relatable Rally. 7:30 p.m. from Thursday the most potent Maurino and Chenevert to Saturday and a 2 p.m. aphrodisiac.” are authentic as Rally’s show on Saturday and The young real estate and talent Sunday at the theater, 4337 actor must decide agents with their respective E. Silver Springs Blvd. whether to go New York and German Tickets are available at through with accents. Wager’s youthful ocalacivictheatre.com or by the transition to effervescence as Rally’s calling (352) 236-2274.

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JANUARY 15 - JANUARY 21 , 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Hungry Bear serves up tradition and burgers By Ainslie Lee Ocala Gazette

s a baby, Danielle Mann lay in a bassinette under a shelf in the 960-square-foot Hungry Bear drive-thru on Osceola Avenue as her mother and aunt filled orders. More than 30 years later, the restaurant – an Ocala tradition – continues to play a big part in her life. “My sister was cooking, I was waiting windows, and she (Mann) was in the bassinette,” said Linda Williams, Mann’s mother. “She’d start crying, and we’d throw a piece of lettuce at her.” After Mann’s aunt, Gladys, took over the drivethru burger joint in 1987, the Hungry Bear was never far from her life. In 2009, Mann’s son became the second generation to spend baby time inside the “Bear.” “It was always, ‘Go see Aunt Gladys and get some free food,’ and just always knowing the Bear,” Mann said. “And now my kids, they just know the Hungry Bear. They say, ‘That’s grandma’s restaurant,’ and they like telling the kids that we can go to Hungry Bear and get food.” Williams took over the establishment in 2009 when her sister Gladys Bates, who was the restaurant’s first cook, died. Bates was hired by Larry Mayhew, who built the Hungry Bear in the mid-1970s. He first founded Mayhew Pest Control next door.

Today, both businesses continue, and the parking lot they share can get wild during the lunch rush. The red brake lights from cars waiting in line for lunch often compete with the white lights of the pest service’s trucks trying to back out. “They just wait until they either have a chance to pull out or pull in,” Mann said. “They don’t make it a big deal.” In recent months, the traffic jams have been worse. While many eateries struggled in 2020, Hungry Bear’s business improved. With many sit-down restaurants not able to operate early on during the pandemic, the drive-thru boomed. Even now, some diners are leery about eating inside restaurants. It keeps lines long. “There’s been days that you push yourself. You start at the minute we open up, and you don’t stop until you close the doors at night. It’s non-stop moving,” Mann said. “And it was hell there for a while because the one fryer went out, and we were down to one fryer. And that was a pain. People really had to wait then. But they do it. And they come back.” Hungry Bear’s menu, which plays on the Goldilocks fairy tale, is as steady as its brick walls. Just like in the 70s, you can get a Baby Bear, Mama Bear or Papa Bear burger, which grow in size as the names imply. Then there is the Grandpa Bear, which is a half-pound burger featuring two patties.

They also have hotdogs, It’s also a convenient spot The tide of students fried pork tenderloin, corn for parents to pick up their stems from year to year. nuggets, sweet potato fries children. “One year, you’ll have and milkshakes. “Their kids come here kids like crazy. The next “We’re not fast food... and sit and wait on their year, you won’t have any,” we’re a drive-thru, but not parents to come maybe two Williams said. fast food,” Williams said. hours later to pick them up. As students cycle through “We try to serve them the We’ve had kids sitting here Osceola Middle School food that we would eat. It’s at closing time waiting on every three years, new faces clean food.” their parents to come pick appear at Hungry Bear’s But Mann thinks them up,” Williams said. pickup window. what makes Hungry Bear “Because parents know they The tiny brick building different stretches well were safe here because we has seen generations of beyond the made-to-order were in there. Nobody was children grow up, just like food. going to bother them.” Mann. “Just that experience you get from speaking to somebody that genuinely cares,” Mann said. “And knowing it’s made with love.” Hungry Bear’s food offerings and its drive-thru convenience are not just popular with those who have cars. It’s “the spot” for nearby Osceola Middle School students after school. They gather around the single picnic table under a canopy. On a given Friday afternoon, it’s not surprising to see 30 to Kathy Mann works on an order at the Hungry Bear drive-thru on Wednesday. The restau40 students rant opened in the mid-1970s and continues to serve up classic favorites. [Ainslie Lee/Ocala at the eatery. Gazette]

The largest draft horse show to ever hit the state of Florida is right here!

February 5-7 Florida Horse Park

14000 Co Hwy 475A, Ocala FL 34473

Gates open at 8am, show starts at 12 noon finishes up around 4pm -Clydesdales, Belgians and Percheron breeds -Undercover open air facility -Visit these gentle giants up close and personal -Fun for all ages -Vendor village -Food trucks -Free parking with general admission -$15 online/$20 at the gate

Popular options availble with purchase of upgraded ticket -Casino Night -Red Carpet Gala

JANUARY 15 - JANUARY 21, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

State News DeSantis vows action against disorderly protests By Jim Turner News Service of Florida TALLAHASSEE – Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis warned Tuesday that law enforcement “reinforcements” will be on hand if anyone plans to participate in armed protests at the state Capitol. Gov. Ron DeSantis [News Service of Florida Photo] “If anything is disorderly, we’re going “On 8 January, the to act very quickly. FBI received information Don’t worry about that,” on an identified group DeSantis said during an calling for others to appearance Tuesday in The join them in ‘storming’ Villages about COVID-19 state, local and federal vaccinations. government courthouses DeSantis comments and administrative buildings were in response to a in the event POTUS is question about an internal removed as President prior FBI bulletin obtained by to Inauguration Day,” the a number of media outlets bulletin said, referring to indicating the federal agency outgoing President Donald has received information Trump. “This identified that armed protests are group is also planning to being planned at all 50 ‘storm’ government offices state capitols and the U.S. including in the District Capitol in Washington, D.C. of Columbia and in every in the days leading up to state, regardless of whether President-elect Joe Biden’s the states certified electoral inauguration on Jan. 20. votes for Biden or Trump,

on 20 January.” DeSantis said he’s not sure he’s received any specific information regarding the state Capitol. But the Florida Department of Law Enforcement issued a statement indicating it is analyzing the situation. “We are aware of the information regarding possible protests and violence at state capitols,” the statement said. “FDLE and Capitol Police continue to monitor the national situation and analyze information relevant to public safety. We regularly collaborate with our federal, state and local partners to discuss and implement security measures that enhance public safety at Florida’s Capitol.” DeSantis, a staunch political ally of Trump, also said people responsible for the deadly storming last Wednesday of the U.S. Capitol need to be held accountable. “I’m glad to see some

of these people getting arrested from the D.C. thing, because I think that the prosecutions will really make a difference,” DeSantis said. DeSantis, who is backing proposals in the upcoming 2021 legislative session to crack down on violent protests (SB 484, HB 1), added that the U.S. Capitol storming was “a really unfortunate thing.” “I think that a lot of the people that probably went to that speech were just going to do what they normally do,” DeSantis, a former member of Congress, said. “But those folks who took it to the violent level, they need to be held accountable. It’s just unacceptable to do that. And, you know, it was really a sad thing to see.” DeSantis, who after the November election urged Trump to “fight on” as the president challenged election results, did not suggest names of people who should be held accountable. Florida Democratic lawmakers on Monday held

an online news conference to blast the newly filed state legislation about protests, saying the proposals are designed to quash the voices of Black and brown people. Also, they said Republican leaders’ narrative for the legislation shifted after the storming of the U.S. Capitol. DeSantis initially pitched a similar measure last year after protests about police violence and and racial inequities. But House Speaker Chris Sprowls, R-Palm Harbor, said the proposals will protect Floridians from the “nonsensical violence” that took place in Washington, D.C. “And when these types of despicable acts happen, law enforcement and prosecutors will have the tools and the support they need to keep Floridians safe, communities whole and property undamaged,” Sprowls, a former prosecutor, said in a prepared statement accompanying the release of the bills on Wednesday.

From Budget Cuts, page 1 education and health care to the environment and the justice system. “It is mathematically impossible to cut $2 billion out of this budget without taking anything from education, obviously, due to the fact that recurring (general revenue) represents a significant amount of our budget,” Trumbull said. Meanwhile, swelling Medicaid caseloads could require more than $1.2 billion in additional general revenue, Trumbull noted. Florida’s Medicaid enrollment was around 3.9 million people before the pandemic. Economists, who meet as the state’s Social Services Estimating Conference, have predicted enrollment of more than 4.44 million people this fiscal year, before the ranks swell to 4.588 million in 2021-2022 and then begin to subside in later years. In addition to not counting on federal money, Trumbull said he doesn’t want to shift money from one-time projects to cover recurring programs. During the session, which will start March 2, lawmakers also

could look for ways to bring in more revenue --- though the Republicancontrolled Legislature has long refused to increase taxes. Rep. Mike Caruso, R-Delray Beach, suggested during a House Ways & Means Committee on Wednesday the state could possibly increase revenue by allowing taxpayers to pay overdue taxes without late penalties. A structured tax amnesty program, which could also offer reduced interest charges, was previously offered in 2010, the last time the state faced shortfalls from a recession. Trumbull expects Gov. Ron DeSantis later this month to release a proposed 2021-2022 budget, which will serve as a starting point for lawmakers. Trumbull said the state remains “fine” for the current fiscal year because of reserves and steps taken as the pandemic began. It’s the next two years that are the concern, as tourism revenue isn’t expected to show a notable rebound until the second half of 2022.

Rep. Jay Trumbull, Florida House of Representatives appropriations committee chairman. [News Service of Florida]

Lawmakers push for reforms at Lowell prison after report detailing sexual abuse By Jim Turner News Service of Florida TALLAHASSEE – A group of female legislators hope other lawmakers are receptive to changes in Florida’s correctional system after a federal investigation found the state failed to protect inmates from sexual abuse by staff at the state’s largest women’s prison. Four Democratic legislators called for the removal of some upperlevel administrators and for mental-health evaluations of staff at Lowell Correctional Institution in Ocala, which was the focus of an investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division and Florida federal prosecutors. “There’s no room for this type of abuse. And these officers need to be held accountable,” said Rep.

Susan Valdés of Tampa. The findings of the investigation released in December found reasonable cause to believe “varied and disturbing reports” of sexual abuse – including rape – by sergeants, correctional officers and other staff at Lowell. “It’s now written in black and white,” said Rep. Dianne Hart, D-Tampa. “And if this report does not change attitudes in Tallahassee, when we swore on the oath of the Constitution to protect our citizens, I don’t know what else will.” The investigation, which began in 2018, found that state Department of Corrections officials have documented and been aware of sexual abuse at Lowell since at least 2006. “Lowell has a long history of tolerance for sexual abuse and harassment, which continues to the present,” the

report said. “In interviews with the department prisoners spoke of sex between staff and prisoners as a regular event, suggesting a normalization of sexual abuse by staff. Some current and former staff made similar representations.” After the report was released, Florida Department of Corrections Secretary Mark Inch said his agency “has cooperated fully” with the federal agency and “will continue to do so.” The report included graphic details of sexual abuse by staff at the prison. “Some staff abused prisoners through unwanted and coerced sexual contact, including sexual penetration, and groping. Prisoners were forced or coerced to perform fellatio on or touch the intimate body parts of staff. In other instances, staff demanded that prisoners undress in front of them,

sometimes in exchange for basic necessities, such as toilet paper,” the report said. The report noted that several Lowell officers and other staff have faced criminal charges based on allegations of sexual abuse of prisoners, while “many more” have been investigated for credible accusations of sexual abuse, including forcible rape, sexual acts in exchange for contraband, and other forms of coerced sexual activity. The investigation also revealed a pattern in which prisoners who report sexual abuse are placed in confinement or threatened with other retaliation. “It is particularly disturbing that supervisors are among the repeat perpetrators of sexual abuse at Lowell,” the report said. “In some cases, abuse allegations were channeled through alleged abusers, who

were tasked with writing up incident reports on behalf of alleged victims.” Lowell, which opened in 1956, is the nation’s largest women’s prison, according to the report. As of November 2019, the prison complex housed more than 2,200 inmates and had a staff of nearly 600, the report said. Accompanying the investigation was a notice that seeks a variety of remedial measures, such as requiring prisoners who report sexual abuse to have access to telephones and visitation. The notice also seeks to ensure prisoners are educated on how to access internal and external confidential reporting options and ensure that prisoners who report sexual abuse have access to victim advocates during evidence collection and investigative interviews.

JANUARY 15 - JANUARY 21 , 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

No parade, but Ocala will mark Martin Luther King Jr. Day By Brendan Farrell Ocala Gazette

very year, hundreds of people observe Martin Luther King Jr. Day with a march from the Ocala downtown square to Webb Field at Martin Luther King Recreation Complex about a mile away. Music, food and vendors usually await the marchers as the solemn event turns into a celebration. But this year, it will be silent. Organizers canceled the Jan. 18 event due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The annual wreath-laying ceremony and prayer will still go on at King Memorial Park on the 500 block of Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. But Instead of a march, two movies, “Harriet” and “Just Mercy,” will air at the Ocala Drive-In on Jan. 18. Eric Cummings, a Marion County School Board member, said instead of a parade, a food caravan is planned. “It’s going to be a day of giving,” Cummings said. “We’re going to have the very first Martin Luther King Day food caravan. It’s going to be to Interfaith Services’ food pantry.” The caravan will start at the Second Bethlehem Baptist Theological Seminary, 1205 NW 4th St., at 9 a.m. They will drive a few blocks to the food pantry. There, volunteers will unload the non-perishable food donations. Ocala City Councilman Ire Bethea, the chairman of the Dr. Martin

Luther King Jr. Commemorative Commission, said they waited to see if they could still host the march. But due to the recent surge in COVID-19 cases, they decided to cancel. “We’ve had these activities for 30-plus years, so, you know, we definitely wanted to have it,” Bethea said. “But you know, even with masks on, we normally have probably 2,000-plus people marching in that march. And how can you keep them from being in, you know, close proximity to each other?” Bethea suffered through a bout with COVID-19 in July and required hospitalization for a time. “We thought that the drive-in would be a better fit for this time because, you know, families would be in their individual cars,” he said. “People wouldn’t be mingling that much.” Bethea said that there is a plan to partner with the Ocala Concert Series as well as the city of Ocala for future events. Former Marion County NAACP President TiAnna Greene said the lack of a march will make it difficult to let their voices be heard and come together as a community. “I was saddened to know that,” Greene said. “We usually have a prayer breakfast. We have youth activities at Howard Academy... I don’t think we have the opportunity to convey, especially during these times, how important it is to continue to do the works that have been started before us, and to kind of give us the motivation to keep going and motivate the generations behind us.”

Ocala pastor reflects on 10 years at the helm of Mount Zion AME By Brendan Farrell Ocala Gazette

uilt in 1891, Mount Zion AME Church stands tall as the last remaining brick religious structure from the 1800s in Ocala. Pastor Rhella Murdaugh’s presence in the pulpit stands just as tall. As the second female pastor and allegedly the longest serving female pastor in the Mount Zion’s storied history, Murdaugh is the leader of the church. “It is an honor, first of all, to be a pastor within this church, within this historical site, and to be in a place where pastors from the 1800s had an opportunity to serve this church on the corner of Magnolia and to be a part of the community to serve the community still as a beacon light,” Murdaugh said. “So, I am just honored to be a part of this church, period.” Murdaugh is originally from Charleston, South Carolina, before moving to the Melbourne/Palm Bay area. For a long time, however, Murdaugh wasn’t a pastor. She previously worked in the Brevard County as a speech pathologist for the public schools there. “It gave me an opportunity to work with all kinds of people,” she said. “And at that time, I felt that this is where I needed to be and that there was a calling on my life to serve the people of God.” From there, Murdaugh went through seminary and earned her doctoral degree in evangelism, mission, and church growth. She arrived in Ocala after being assigned to Mount Zion by the

bishop of the AME church. Since then, she’s become a figurehead of the community as she has watched families grow over the course of her 10 years at the church. “I enjoy the fact that I’ve gotten the opportunity to watch the children, the babies, grow into adulthood,” Murdaugh said. However, it hasn’t been easy running a church during the middle of a pandemic. The church hasn’t returned to in-person services, which makes having fellowship difficult. Seeing each other on Zoom isn’t quite the same as worshipping in the same room. “The fellowship is what we miss,” Murdaugh said. “The fellowship, worshipping together, seeing each other, you know, being able to hug each other, pray together. In the physical sense, these things have been very difficult. To even see each other period has been really, really difficult.” Murdaugh said she thinks the separation has been more difficult for the kids. “They have called me and said, ‘Pastor, I really, really miss being at church,’” she said. “And we’re talking not only in the teens, but in the younger children as well. They love the camaraderie, they love the fellowship, the things that they do within the church, they miss it. The youth programs and activities, they miss it.” There’s a lot of pressure to hold together a church on a virtual platform. Along with the pandemic, Marion County, along with the rest of the country, saw protests throughout the year stemming from social injustice. As the pastor of an AME church, Murdaugh was See Murdaugh, page 17

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JANUARY 15 - JANUARY 21, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Federal COVID-19 vaccine reserves set for roll out, but some concerned By Christine Sexton News Service of Florida TALLAHASSEE – Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said Tuesday his decision to steer highly sought-after COVID-19 vaccines to people 65 and older has been vindicated by a Trump administration announcement that it will do the same. But the Trump administration’s decision to use supplies it has held in reserve to vaccinate more people has some Florida hospitals worried. “There’s concerns here about the ability for us to be able to get our complete supply for our second doses, given they are going to distribute the entire vaccine supply,” a Venice Regional Bayfront Health official, who did not identify herself, said Tuesday morning on a hospital-industry phone call with Florida Department of Health Secretary Scott Rivkees and Agency for Health Care Administration Secretary Shevaun Harris. “Our health department here yesterday received no vaccines for the county for this week. And so, we are not sure we are going to get our complete second dose.” She was not alone in her concerns. Bob Keenan, chief medical officer of Moffitt

Cancer Center, said the Tampa-based hospital will exhaust this week its initial COVID-19 vaccine supply. “Any ideas as to when we might be able to get additional allotment over and above what we asked for initially in order to continue vaccination of our patients?” he asked. The questions came after U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar announced on the ABC show “Good Morning America” that manufacturing of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines is running smoothly and that the federal government is releasing vaccine doses it has been holding in reserve. The reserves were designed to ensure enough supply for second doses of the vaccines. Both the Pfizer and Modern vaccines require two doses. “Everything is now available to the states,” Azar said, adding that states should begin vaccinating all people 65 and older, as well as people with underlying comorbidities. The Trump administration’s reversal in policy followed President-elect Joe Biden’s announcement that his incoming administration would no longer withhold the vaccines. The reversal also came amid criticism of efforts to roll out the vaccines.

A federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention vaccine tracker showed that as of Monday, nearly nearly 25.5 million doses had been distributed. Florida had received 1.66 million doses. A separate state report showed that slightly more than 597,000 people had been vaccinated in the state, with about 51,000 completing their vaccination series. Fiftyseven percent of the people who had been vaccinated were 65 or older, a figure that DeSantis touts. Initially, only front-line health care workers and long-term care residents and staff were authorized to receive the coveted vaccines. DeSantis issued an executive order on Dec. 23 broadening eligibility to include 4.4 million Floridians who are 65 and older, along with all health-care workers who have direct contact with patients. That put the state at odds with the federal government, which recommended broadening the eligibility groups to include “essential” workers, such as first responders and teachers, and people 75 and older. DeSantis repeatedly has defended his decision to buck the federal government and to make the vaccines available to people 65 and older, noting that they are the most likely to die from

COVID-19. At a news conference Tuesday in The Villages, DeSantis said his decision ultimately proved correct. “Because we put seniors first, and because people actually see shots going in arms, you literally have people all over the world and all over the country calling here to see (if they can get the vaccine), but we are not doing that. We are not doing it for tourists. We are not doing it for interlopers,” DeSantis said. “But I think that does tell you something. If we weren’t getting the shots in arms, people wouldn’t be trying to come to Florida. That’s just the bottom line.” But the decision to make the scarce vaccines available to millions of seniors jammed websites and overwhelmed phone systems as people scrambled to make appointments for shots. In some areas of the state, seniors camped out overnight in hopes of getting vaccinated. The DeSantis administration also relied heavily on hospitals to vaccinate the general public, but it provided the facilities no blueprint to follow, and there have been miscues. Meanwhile, not all the concerns hospitals expressed on Tuesday’s call with state health officials stemmed from the Trump

administration’s reversal in policy. Representatives from Manatee Memorial Hospital and Bayfront Health said they were worried about how the state keeps track of the number of vaccinations administered in the SHOTS system and how it could be underreported. An acronym for “state health online tracking system,” SHOTS is a centralized information system that keeps track of immunization records. Hospitals, doctors and pharmacies that wanted to administer COVID-19 vaccinations were required to enroll in the SHOTS program. Additionally, the state has passed emergency rules that require providers to report in the SHOTS system all vaccinations administered. But the Manatee Memorial Hospital official, who did not fully identify himself, said that there was an interface issue between hospitals and the SHOTS system that resulted in some vaccination data getting dropped. Because the state is relying on the SHOTS system data to determine vaccine allotments, the hospital official was worried that Manatee Memorial might not receive enough supply for its second doses.

State Senators blast Florida’s communication on COVID-19 vaccine plans By Christine Sexton News Service of Florida TALLAHASSEE – A leading Senate Republican on Wednesday chided Florida Surgeon General Scott Rivkees about the state’s COVID-19 vaccinedistribution efforts, saying Gov. Ron DeSantis’ administration hasn’t been forthcoming with the public. Sen. Aaron Bean, R-Fernandina Beach, said during a meeting of the Senate Health Policy Committee that there is statewide frustration over the vaccine rollout and that Rivkees and Department of Health Assistant Secretary Shamarial Roberson need to provide the public with a “clear direction” about the state’s plans. “If there is an orderly process that is clear and communicated well, most people are patient --- they will wait their turn and know that new supplies are coming. And I can wait my turn. But when there’s no information, and there’s no rhyme or reason who’s getting it, that’s the frustration,” said Bean, who is a top lieutenant of Senate President Wilton Simpson and chairs a panel in charge of the health-care budget. “So when you leave here and have a debrief of your meeting today, please talk about there’s great frustration over lack of communication.” Bean said the Nassau County Commission was slated to have an emergency meeting on Wednesday to

discuss vaccination efforts. Florida has received to people 65 and older and Bean, who represents the 1,680,200 doses, according all health-care workers county, said thousands of to a CDC tracker. A with direct patient care. people signed up through a separate state health Additionally, the executive Nassau County website to department report showed order gave hospitals the get vaccinated but there was the state had administered ability to vaccinate people no supply. 707,428 doses as of Tuesday they deem to be extremely More than 4.4 million and that 61,158 people had vulnerable to COVID-19. people age 65 and older received the required two The DeSantis qualify for vaccinations doses. administration asked under a Dec. 23 executive Meanwhile, the number hospitals, along with county order issued by DeSantis. of people who have health departments, to take But the state has received contracted COVID-19 the lead on vaccinating far fewer doses of Pfizer continues to increase the public. But the state and Moderna vaccines significantly. Florida on provided no blueprint for than would be needed to Tuesday topped 1.5 million the hospitals to follow, and vaccinate those seniors --reported cases of COVID-19 the state’s rollout efforts or the broader population. since the pandemic started have been widely criticized Both the Pfizer and early last year, and at least as botched. To help bolster Moderna vaccines require 23,396 Florida residents the effort, DeSantis two doses to be effective. have died. has enlisted Publix Given the math, Rivkees While the approval of the supermarkets in several told members of the Senate vaccines has ushered in new areas of the state. Health Policy Committee promise in the fight against The Senate Health that “it is going to take the spread of COVID-19, Policy Committee met a while” to get all those supplies have been limited. for the first time this who qualify vaccinated. Initially, the vaccines year on Wednesday, and Therefore, he said the were targeted at frontthe meeting was the first message that needs to be line healthcare workers opportunity for senators to delivered is patience. and staff and residents of ask top state health-care “How you convey long-term care facilities. officials pointed questions patience during a DeSantis’ Dec. 23 executive about the rollout efforts. pandemic is a very difficult order expanded eligibility But Rivkees avoided conversation directly to have. answering Frankly, it’s most of the heartbreaking,” questions. Rivkees, who Sen. doubles as Lauren Book, secretary of the D-Plantation, Department of asked Health, said. Rivkees what According percentage to the federal of people Centers for in the state Disease Control needed to be and Prevention, vaccinated 29.38 million to achieve doses of the community Pfizer and immunity Moderna and when he vaccines have thought the been distributed Sen. Aaron Bean, a Republican from Fernandina Beach was one of goal would be those critical about the lack of clear communication from the state on nationwide. reached. the COVID-19 vaccine rollout plans. [News Service of Florida]

“At the present time, we are still looking for guidance from the CDC for what they define the vaccination coverage will need to be to achieve population immunity,” Rivkees replied. Noting that more than 22 million people live in the state and considering the current number of people who have been vaccinated, Sen. Ben Albittron, R-Wauchula, asked Rivkees whether it’s “fair to say” that it would take 22 months to get shots into the arms of everyone who agreed to be vaccinated. Rivkees didn’t directly answer, saying he was hopeful that additional vaccines would receive emergency approval from the federal government. Albritton tried again. “When we’re looking at talking to people back home, being realistic with them matters. Because if not, they’re not going to believe us the next time,” Albritton told Rivkees. “A million doses a month, 22 million people, that’s a maximum of 22 months. And the hope is additional inflow reduces that timeline. Is that fair to say?” Rivkees avoided answering the question a second time and said he thought the federal government would approve additional vaccine candidates for emergency use. Rivkees said he’d be “very surprised if we are in a situation where the only two vaccines that we have are going to be the current ones available.”

JANUARY 15 - JANUARY 21 , 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

From Vaccine, page 1 than 50,000 registrations for about 13,000 doses. They will reopen registration once the majority of the first 50,000 are vaccinated. That could take until March as they hope to ramp up to 1,000 vaccinations per day. Publix also halted their registration recently. “We continue to work with the Governor DeSantis’s office to secure additional doses,” Publix spokesperson Maria Brous wrote in an email to the Tampa Bay Times. “We anticipate receiving additional supply next week.” Trinity Clinic probably won’t open as planned. “We’re going to end up in, I think, a holding pattern until the state releases more vaccines to (Marion County),” said Dr. David Kuhn, who is behind the Trinity Clinic vaccination site at Reilly. The Heart of Florida gets its own allotment as a federally qualified healthcare center and they are waiting too. “We’re waiting for a second allotment. We had to

pause scheduling people once (our first allotment) ran out,” said Ulmer, who said they initially received 2,100 vaccines that went mostly to healthcare workers. The DOH gave them almost 1,700 doses recently, and they vaccinated 1,100 people on Saturday, Jan. 9. Most of the rest went on Monday. “This is going to be a tough hill to climb. Without the activation of the National Guard to set up a vaccine distribution site, we’ll be at this until March,” he said. Heart of Florida will also be immunizing 200 people per day from the DOH’s registration backlog starting on Thursday. As of Thursday, Florida has received over 1.6 million doses but only 705,398 people have received their first shot in the state, according to information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. For clinics like Kuhn’s, it could set their plans back.

They hoped to offer at least 300 vaccines per day by the first week and build up to

As of Thursday, Florida has received over 1.6 million doses but only 705,398 people have received their first shot. According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 600 per day after two weeks. “If we don’t get any vaccines next week at our site, then it’ll be a pushback. So, it’ll be a two-week run at 300 a day, and we want to start as soon as we can, but we just don’t know exactly when we can start because we don’t know when exactly we’re going to get vaccine.” While Kuhn plans on

getting doses from the local health department, he will try to get them directly from the state. There’s no way to order from the manufacturer. “There’s a lot of people who really want to get vaccinated desperately,” Kuhn said. “The rollout of vaccine, the availability of vaccines hasn’t been at the quantity that we hoped for. “I wish there were more, and they just don’t have enough at this point. The demand is so high right now for vaccines, there’s just not near enough supply to me the demand, not just in our state, but nationwide.” According to Mark Lander, administrator for the DOH in Marion County, each county is given its allocation for the following week by Thursday or Friday, but there isn’t a set allocation for each county. Allocations depend on how many vaccines the state gets from the federal government. As for the Trinity Clinic

site, Lander said that it if there are any extra vaccines beyond what the health department can administer in a week, that is when it would reach out to other providers. But it all depends on how many vaccines the health department gets every week. “We know we can do a certain amount each week,” Lander said. “Anything over that, sometimes the allocation might not be enough to cover a weekly schedule, but if it is, and there’s any excess, that’s when we’ll work with our providers for the following week, what we have planned. We’ll work with our providers to transfer them the vaccine.” Ulmer said many don’t realize the work it takes to give the vaccine. “It’s very labor-intensive,” Ulmer said. “It took us about 75 people to do 1,100 in six hours, and so you’ve got to have a good team to rotate people to eat, to rest, to use the restroom in order to keep that big beast operating.”

From COVID Deaths, page 1 and fund development coordinator, said that it is important to keep in mind senior citizens’ mental health right now. “The advice we give everybody is, if you have a senior in your life, whether that’s a family member or your neighbor or somebody you used to work with, just anybody, it doesn’t hurt to pick up the phone and give them a call,” Williams said. “If they’re good with texting, text them. If they have email, a Facebook, whatever, just reach out to them. Spend a few minutes, let them know they’re not alone in this and if they need anything to give you a holler.” Recently, those 65 and older began receiving COVID-19 vaccinations. While the vaccines offer hope, it will still take months before most older residents are completely vaccinated. Vaccines are currently in high demand

[Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]

and organizations are executive director at Marion avoid crowds, wash your struggling with the logistics Senior Services, said it is hands, you know, wear your of both getting the vaccines important to continue to mask, especially if you have and administering them. In follow CDC guidelines and underlying conditions. And be order to get full protection, be cautious, especially when patient. We are doing the very the vaccine requires two it comes to the elderly. best we can to get the vaccines doses given several weeks “Just be vigilant,” out and distributed as quickly apart. Martinez said. “Remember as possible and as safely as ThisMartinez, is a theme puzzle with subject stated Findpossible, the listed in the grid. (They ma Jennifer the the CDC guidelines, trybelow. to sowords hang on.” run in any direction but always in a straight line. Some letters are used more than once.) Ring each word as you find it and when you have completed the puzzle, there will be 21 letters left over. They spell out the alternative theme of the puzzle.

WORD FIND

Sporting champions Solution: 21 Letters

65, according to the Florida Department of Health. People between the ages 15 and 64 make up 73% of all cases in Marion County. The median age of those who were positive for COVID-19 is 45. However, the virus is taking a toll on the county’s older population. Despite only accounting for 21% of all reported cases in the county, those 65 and older account for 83.9% of the 516 deaths. The same age group also accounts for 56% of all hospitalizations in Marion County. Making matters worse, Marion County’s population is among the oldest in the state. The county has the 10th highest percentage of people 65 in the state with 28.6%, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2019 American Community Survey five-year estimates. Jamie Williams, Marion Senior Services’ marketing

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JANUARY 15 - JANUARY 21, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Creative’s Corner Local artisan finds comfort, success in quarantine hobby By Lisa McGinnes Ocala Gazette

aving to quarantine during COVID-19 provided a surge of creativity to Megan Sparkman. Before the pandemic, she was often busy performing in the musical duo Caly and Megan. Then last spring, when many venues stopped booking live music, she suddenly found herself with time for a new hobby. She discovered macramé online. “I really like modern decor but with a bohemian vibe,” she explained. “I actually started with wall hanging macramé. I just wanted to make pieces for my own home and learn how to do it. And I really enjoyed that, so I wanted to bring that smaller scale, so I started to do macramé earrings.” It takes nearly an hour for Sparkman to craft a pair of macramé earrings, using natural materials including cotton and hemp cording, as well as metal hardware designed for sensitive ears. Drawn to neutral colors and a penchant for chandelier-style statement earrings, she found those designs also resonated with other women.

Once she’d mastered macramé, Sparkman had an urge to try polymer clay, which allowed her to experiment with more colors, shapes and textures. “The polymer clay is really popular right now,” she noted. “I had seen different designs, and so I became really interested in that.” The lightweight, mixed media clay earrings proved to be even more popular than her macramé styles. After a couple months, her friends convinced her to stop giving them away. “They were like, ‘You’re putting out good quality stuff. You should be selling it,’” she recalled. “So I made the Instagram and started taking photos and posting all the stuff. And the response was really, really good.” When Sovereigns & Scoundrels opened downtown in October, Sparkman showed them an assortment of her handmade styles. “That was the coolest thing ever, to go in there and show my stuff and have them be like, ‘We want every single piece you brought,’” she said. Sparkman will soon make her debut as a vendor at the Ocala Downtown Market. She said support from the

community has been the most surprising and fulfilling part of her new venture. But for her, what started as a hobby is still a kind of therapy. She doesn’t even listen to music while she’s crafting jewelry, preferring its meditative value. “It’s a very therapeutic process for me,” she said. “It’s honestly my place of center when I’m doing it. The only thing that matters is how they’re looking, how the design is progressing. There’s no other background noise. There’s A selection of Sparkman’s earrings she designed and made for her Street Spirit Jewelry businothing. ness are shown. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] There’s just this. I feel like by one of her favorite songs, the first thing that came this and music Radiohead’s “Street Spirit to mind for a name,” she are two of the biggest pieces (Fade Out).” remembered. “And I feel like of myself.” “As soon as I knew I was it really fits with the style of Her brand name, Street going to start selling, it was what I am doing.” Spirit Jewelry, was inspired

Megan Sparkman shows off a selection of earrings that she has made for her Street Spirit Jewelry business on Jan. 11. Sparkman started making the jewelry about 10 months ago when she was in quarantine due to the COVID-19 pandemic. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]

Most of Sparkman’s design are fashioned from polymer clay, natural hemp and twine. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]

Marion County jury trials canceled until further notice Ocala Gazette Staff

ll Marion County trials are off until further notice, according to an order from the chief judge of the 5th Judicial Circuit. The latest order continues a months-long

suspension of jury and grand jury trials due to COVID-19 dating back to March. Chief Judge Daniel B. Merritt issued the order Jan. 13, amending the Court’s COVID-19 Operational Plan for the seventh time, citing high COVID-19 positivity rates for the week ending Jan. 9 for all five counties

that cover the circuit. The positivity rates include Marion County, 17.4%, Lake County, 14.4%, Sumter County, 13.9%, Citrus County, 12.4% and Hernando County, 11.7%. Florida Supreme Court Chief Justice Charles T. Canady has previously ordered local communities

have a seven-day average positivity rate under 10 or 11 percent for a certain length of time before inperson hearings resume. Since the beginning of December, Marion County has tried to summon jurors and hold trials, only to have to cancel them at the last minute due to local high

COVID-19 numbers. While Merritt’s order means clerks of the court in the district do not need to summon jurors, it doesn’t mean judges have to stop setting future trial dates in the hopes the positivity rate falls, said Jeffrey Fueller, a spokesman for the circuit court.

JANUARY 15 - JANUARY 21 , 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Ocala Trump supporters blame infiltrators for D.C. violence By Carlos Medina Ocala Gazette

ome Marion County supporters of President Donald Trump say they are being painted with too broad a brush after ra ecent protest in Washington D.C. turned deadly when some in the crowd stormed the U.S. Capitol. Glen Fiorello, chairman of the Trump Club of Marion County, wondered if those who spurred the violence were even legitimate Trump supporters. “From what I can determine, the violent actors have very close resemblances to some of those Antifa members from the past,” Fiorello said. Rocky Stacy, the immediate past Marion County Republican Party chairman, also felt the rioting looked suspicious. “The whole thing was a set up by Antifa. That’s the way these people operate,” Stacy said. Law enforcement has not linked Antifa to the Capitol takeover, however. The violence erupted after thousands descended on Washington ahead of Congress confirming President-elect Joe Biden won the election.

Millions of Trump supporters have continued to argue the election was not fair and point to possible voting machine inconsistencies, as well as other largely unsubstantiated voter fraud allegations. But for Fiorello, who helped organize a gathering in downtown Ocala on Jan. 6, in connection with other rallies across the country, violence is never the answer. In Ocala, several people showed up waving flags and signs in support of Trump. The gathering remained largely peaceful. He bristled at the gathering even being called a protester. “We weren’t protesting. We were supporting our president. The two things that were required for attending was support for our president and to be respectful. We’ve always taken the high road,” Fiorello said. Stacy said even the Washington gathering was not a protest. “It was a rally to support the president and bring the fact that they stole an election to everyone’s attention. It was not a protest,” he said. At least one Ocala resident was in Washington on Wednesday. Bridgitte

Smith, who lives in Ocala and is active in local politics, including having run for office at least twice, said she didn’t fully realize what had happened until Friday. “We had no idea what was going on in the front. We’re a mile away, and it was wall-to-wall,” Smith said. “We started hearing rumors. But all I experienced were people praying, singing and exercising their right to independence. It’s upsetting that they are painting everyone that was there as an insurrectionist.” Smith said she didn’t get the full grasp of what happened until she sat down and watched the videos on Friday. She and two friends were on the road most of the time, having driven to Washington and back. “It’s disgusting. Those responsible should all be prosecuted,” Smith said. “I hope they do find out who they are and arrest them all. They need to be held

accountable.” Another Marion County resident was arrested during the demonstration. Michael Curzio was charged with unlawful entry by U.S. Capitol Police. In 2012, Curzio shot another man in a dispute over a woman. He served eight years on a conviction for attempted first degree murder. He was released from prison in February 2019. Kat Cammack, recently sworn-in U.S. Representative whose 3rd Congressional District covers part of Marion County, was inside the Capitol when it was breached. “Today, while objecting to the electoral college certification of states with explicit election irregularities, the Capitol was breached by protesters. The situation escalated quickly with members being notified that nearby buildings were being breached,” Cammack said in a press release. She said as debate continued, protestors reached the doors to the house floor. “As attempts to gain entry into the chamber grew in intensity, I witnessed fellow members joining

with Capitol Police to further barricade doors by piling furniture. They also began breaking furniture to provide themselves with any means of defense they could find. Within minutes, the sounds of shots began coming through the door,” she wrote. She and the other members of congress got out safely. “In the midst of fighting a legitimate and most serious objection to the certification of the states with egregious election violations, we were stopped. We were stopped by people not intent on fighting for our Constitutional Republic and our constitution; instead, they wanted to tear it down,” according to her statement. Fiorello said the local Trump Club will continue supporting the president in a non-violent manner. “We’re not out to do damage or anything. I’m not about to be throwing rocks or burning anything,” he said. For Smith, the experience convinced her to focus more on local and state politics in the future. “I am just an American who loves this country and wants the right thing done. Do the right thing,” she said. “I’m hoping we can heal.”

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JANUARY 15 - JANUARY 21, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Sports Wildcats top Knights in sold-out rivalry contest By Ainslie Lee Ocala Gazette

Forest’s Jeremiah Russell (1) drives to the hoop past Vanguard’s Lionel Manning (4), left, and Lamont Snyder (15), right. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]

hile sold-out sporting events have been one of the coronavirus pandemic’s many victims, Friday night’s boy’s basketball game against the Vanguard Knights and Forest Wildcats hosted a near-standing room only crowd. And with the two programs’ storied rivalry, it came as no surprise that Vanguard staff members had to turn away late-arriving spectators. Many of those fortunate enough to cheer on their team did so behind a mask. However, policing maskwearing and social distancing became less of a priority as the game progressed. “It was good to see people with their mask on,” Forest head coach Spencer Ashley said of the atmosphere. “We gotta keep doing that. We gotta make sure that we keep following rules and for the most part, both sides did really good. But it was good. Our students got to see it, our families got to see it… It was just a little bit of normalcy, but a good night.” By final whistle, the fans that Forest brought with them would also agree that it was a good night. In a contest that saw both rosters battle in-game injuries, the visiting Wildcats topped the Knights 60-46 on Friday night. Forest senior Gavin Stephan led the Wildcats’ scoring efforts early in the night, before suffering a gameending ankle injury. “It really hurt us. It hurt our depth big time,” Ashley said of losing Stephan. Paired with Stephan’s injury, the Wildcats also battled foul trouble, which forced Forest’s 6-foot-8 junior Elijah Russell to watch from the bench until the second half. “We’re a big team and we lost two post players early,” Ashley said. “So we kinda had to change the way we

played.” Meanwhile, Vanguard senior Aaron James sparked the Knights offensive efforts in the first half, tallying a team-high of nine first-half points. Out of the break, the Wildcats returned some of their size when Elijah Russell came off of the bench. And to the bustling crowd’s delight, Forest’s lengthy roster made noise at the rim behind a slam dunk from junior Brenen Lorient, followed by an alley-oop from Lorient to Elijah Russell. Forest’s 18-point third quarter, paired with the Knights’ leading scorer going down with an injury spelled trouble for Vanguard. After stumbling into the bleachers during a play, James briefly exited the game with an injury. However, the senior guard wasn’t gone long. “He’s the leader of our team,” Vanguard head coach Todd Davis said. “He didn’t want to go out like that right there. Especially against Forest. So he came back and showed us that grit and resiliency of being a senior and wanting to go out on top.” James would finish the night with a team-high of 15 points, while junior Demetrius Watts added eight points of his own. Despite only leading by three heading into the final quarter, the Wildcats finally found separation from the Knights down the stretch behind three balls from junior Jeremiah Russell and freshman X’Zavion McCoy. “He brings the energy every single night,” Ashley said of the young McCoy. “He always has energy and he never gets tired.” Leading Forest’s offensive efforts in the win were Elijah Russell with 14 points and Lorient with 11. With a 9-2 record, the Wildcats will look to improve on Jan. 12 night as they visit Trinity Catholic for a 7:30 p.m. tipoff. Meanwhile, the Knights (2-3) look to bounce back on Jan. 15 when they host West Port at 7:30 p.m.

Vanguard’s Aaron James (3) drives to the basket as he is defended by Forest’s Josh Cuspard (10). [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]

Strong shooting effort helps Forest in win over Trinity Catholic By Ainslie Lee Ocala Gazette

hen the Forest Wildcats and the Trinity Catholic Celtics each had to cancel their originally scheduled boy’s basketball games for Jan. 12 after their opponents had COVID-19 concerns, the two green and gold-clad teams mutually agreed to square off against one another to replace their scrapped contests. From the Marino Gymnasium on Trinity Catholic’s campus, the Forest Wildcats, sparked by a strong shooting performance in the first quarter, ran off with a 64-44 win over the Celtics. Despite struggling from beyond the arc in recent games, Forest found quick success with the three ball on Tuesday night. “We haven’t shot it well,” Forest head coach Spencer Ashley said. “But we really focused on Saturday and Monday on shooting well. And we came out really, really hot. It was good to see. If we can keep doing that moving forward, we will be okay.” Collectively, the Wildcats splashed eight three-point balls through the net against the Celtics – five of which came in the opening quarter. Forest senior Josh Cuspard scored on two three-point shots in the first quarter, while juniors Aaron Stelogeanis, Calvin Davison and Brandon Baxley each netted a three of their own.

Following Forest’s offensively charged first quarter, Trinity Catholic found itself trying to reel from a 23-9 deficit. In effort to stop the bleeding, Trinity Catholic junior LJ Pugh started giving the Wildcats a taste of their own medicine in getting two three balls to go. “I challenged a few of them to do different things, especially as Pugh, for them, got hot,” Ashley said. “And we really wanted to take No. 5 (Jacques Njeanwobe) out of their game. And we really tried to play off of him. It’s really unconventional, but we did a really good job of it.” While Pugh finished with 12 points, Njeanwobe led the Celtics’ stat sheet with 17 points. Making contributions for Forest’s defensive efforts was Stelogeanis, who Ashley jokingly calls “steady Eddy”. “Aaron does a lot of things that people don’t see,” Ashley said. “He plays really, really sound defense. And offensively, he doesn’t do anything flashy, but he’s steady Eddy. He just doesn’t make mistakes.” Offensively for Forest, the Wildcats’ two post players led scoring. Juniors Elijah Russell and Brenen Lorient each tallied 11 points, while freshman X’Zavion McCoy added eight. With the win, the Wildcats improve to 10-2 and will spend their week preparing to host the MLK Classic on Saturday. Meanwhile, the Celtics fall to 4-6 and will host PK Yonge on Friday night at 7.

Trinity Catholic Cole Gonzales (3) blocks Forest High School Elijah Russell (3) as the Forest Wildcats beat Trinity Catholic. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]

Trinity Catholic Jacques Njeanwobe (5) drives on Forest High School Elijah Russell (3). [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]

JANUARY 15 - JANUARY 21 , 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

West Port’s Victoria Carter (10) moves the ball downfield as she is defended by Vanguard’s Sofia Ahumada (12). [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]

Vanguard’s Sofia Ahumada (12) and West Port’s Kaitlyn Roth (2) battle for control of the ball. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]

Vanguard scores 1-0 win on late winner over West Port By Brendan Farrell Ocala Gazette

or most of Vanguard’s game against West Port, the Knights looked like the better team. They possessed the ball more and were more dangerous in the attacking half, but they just couldn’t find a goal. A missed shot or misplaced pass here and there kept the Knights off the scoreboard. However, late in the game, Vanguard’s Abigail Andal crossed the ball from the left side, finding the foot of Mia Liebegott, who struck the ball past the West

Port goalkeeper. Liebegott’s goal stood as the gamewinner, giving Vanguard a 1-0 victory on senior night. Freshman Gianna Meccia earned the shutout in goal for the Knights. “Second half, I think we kinda took control there and created a lot of opportunities there,” Vanguard girls soccer coach Bryan Giles said. “We just lacked on a few finishing, but all in all a good night.” Vanguard controlled the game early, but the Knights were never a threat offensively. Neither team had a shot on target until after the first water break. Both teams were held

scoreless through the first half, as neither team could form a dangerous attack. West Port was content to keep the Knights out of dangerous areas and force shots from outside. In the second half, the Knights finally started to threaten the West Port defense and create scoring chances. Early in the period, a Vanguard corner kick was pushed away by West Port’s goalkeeper, only to fall right in front of a Vanguard attacker at the top of the 18yard box. The shot soared just over the crossbar and bounced off the bottom of the upright behind the goal. That was the beginning

of many missed chances for Vanguard in the second half. Liebegott missed wide from the top of the six-yard box after a cross from the touchline, while Andal had a shot later that hit the outside of the net. Vanguard’s Kaylie Saez forced a turnover deep in the attacking third and had a clear shot at goal, only to hit the post. After the water break, the Knights continued to chip away at West Port’s defense with more chances, but they couldn’t break through. Liebegott finally put one home for Vanguard, who needed a rebound performance after a 5-0

drubbing at P.K. Yonge (Gainesville). There won’t be much time for Vanguard (7-21) to celebrate the win, as they head off to Gainesville on Wednesday to face Gainesville High. The Knights defeated Gainesville 3-0 earlier in the season. West Port (8-4), meanwhile, is slated to face South Sumter (Bushnell) on Thursday. “They’re a solid, solid group,” Giles said. “So, it’ll be a good game for us, getting us ready for the county tournament next week, so we’re excited to play that game.”

Belleview softball’s Reimsnyder signs with Bethel University By Ainslie Lee Ocala Gazette

o. 11 became No. 53 on Monday night as Belleview senior Lauren Reimsnyder signed her letter of intent to Bethel University, becoming the 53rd product of Belleview softball to go on to play at the college level. “This is our favorite time,” Belleview softball’s head coach Gary Greer told the crowd of Reimsnyder’s family and friends. “It doesn’t have a ball or a bat, but is has a celebration of athletes that we’ve had come through Belleview High School. And through the hard work of their own, and through the help of a lot of people in the community, they’re able to

move on and play softball and get educated at the next level.” And Reimsnyder, who will sport the No. 11 for the Rattlers for a final season this spring, is no exception. Before inking her contract, Reimsnyder gracefully thanked all of the people who impacted her journey to college softball. From her grandparents, to her cousins, to her late uncle Terry, Reimsnyder’s appreciation to those around her gushed. “I would like to thank my wonderful teammates from the Belleview Rattlers, and from the Guardians,” Reimsnyder said. “You guys push me every day, and for that, I am forever grateful.” At the age of seven, Reimsnyder recalls, she decided she wanted to be a

softball pitcher. But her dad, nine batters and recorded season, Reimsnyder will Brad Reimsnyder, was quick two saved games. make the northward trek to to caution his daughter This spring, Reimsnyder McKenzie, Tennessee, where about the sacrifices she’d is set to take over the she will start her college have to make. Rattlers’ pitching duties. softball career and major in “Naturally, he warned me Following Belleview’s pre-med. that pitching takes a lot of work and a lot of dedication to do it well,” the Belleview senior said. “But I accepted the challenge.” In a shortened 2019 season, Reimsnyder pitched relief behind Autumn Oglesby, who graduated last year and hung up her cleats, despite college offers. With 17.1 innings pitched through 11 games, Lauren Reimsnyder, center, smiles after signing a letter of intent to attend Bethel UniversiReimsnyder, then on Monday. She is accompanied by her parents, Brad and Jennifer Reimsnyder. [Ainslie a junior, struck out ty Lee/Ocala Gazette]

Forest set to host competitive MLK Classic By Ainslie Lee Ocala Gazette

ome of the region’s top high school basketball talent will meet on the same hardwood on Saturday at Forest High School’s gymnasium when the Wildcats host the third annual MLK Classic. The tournament will feature eight matchups, good for over 11 hours of basketball action. However, the tournament hasn’t gotten

off without a hitch. Despite previously including North Marion and Bishop McLaughlin (Spring Hill), tournament organizers have had to scramble to replace the two teams, which had to bow out due to COVID-19 concerns. But the show goes on. The first game of the day will tipoff at 10 a.m. between Belleview and Chiefland. The Wildcats round out the evening with a muchanticipated matchup against the Paxon Golden Eagles.

Hailing from Jacksonville, the Golden Eagles boast a 10-4 record as of Jan. 14. Paxon is led by senior Jakobe Williams, who is averaging 14.8 points per game, and is shooting for 46 percent from the field. The Golden Eagles are also helped by senior Quinnton Jackson, who has tallied 65 rebounds and 41 assists on the year. Jackson is also shooting 51 percent from the field and 30 percent from beyond the arc.

The tournament is open to the public and tickets cost $7. Organizers stress they will enforce Centers for Disease Control and Prevention COVID-19 guidelines. Masks are required for entry. Ashley said he was super excited to host the tournament. “This is the best talent we’ve had at the MLK Classic. Six out of the seven local county teams are in it... It should be a good day, a good, good day,” he said.

The full slate of games includes: 10:00am – Belleview vs Chiefland 11:30am – Dunnellon vs St. Francis 1:00pm – West Port vs Lake Minneola 2:30pm – Wildwood vs Santa Fe 4:00pm – Columbia vs East Lake 5:30pm – Vanguard vs Eustis 7:00pm – King vs The Villages 8:30pm – Forest vs Paxon

JANUARY 15 - JANUARY 21, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Chief Greg Graham Legacy Foundation walk The Chief Greg Graham Legacy Foundation held a walk at Zone Health and Fitness on South Pine Avenue in Ocala on Jan. 14. During the event, people walked on three different treadmills. The event had raised more than $120,000 as of press time. Ocala Police Chief Greg Graham was killed in a plane crash on Oct. 25. The money raised will benefit the amnesty program he started to help people battling addictions and the Boys & Girls Club of Marion County. Through the Community Foundation of Ocala/Marion County, a yearly event will be held in Graham’s honor to benefit the community.[Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]

Capt. Pat Feagle of Ocala Fire Rescue.

Amy Graham, the widow of Ocala Police Chief Greg Graham, center, talks with Ocala Police Chief Mike Balken, left, and Ocala Fire Rescue Chief Shane Alexander.

Capt. Sandra Duryea of the Ocala Police Department, right, and Dr. James Henningsen, the president of the College of Central Florida.

Angie Clifton, the president of Main Street Bank, who is one of the co-founders of the Chief Greg Graham Legacy Foundation walk, marks a chart showing how much money was raised.

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JANUARY 15 - JANUARY 21 , 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Community

1/15

Marion Oaks Farmers Market

1/15

Marion County Friday Market

1/15

Marion Oaks Community Center, 294 Marion Oaks Ln. 9am-noon Fresh vegetables, artisan food products and handmade crafts.

McPherson Government Complex, 601 SE 25th Ave. 9am-2pm Shop locally fresh fruits and veggies, cinnamon buns, jerky, freeze dried treats, olive oils and seafood.

Q Lives

Circle Square Cultural Center, 8395 SW 80th St. 11am-12:30pm Robert Wallace, former director of the CIA’s Office of Technical Service, presents “Spy Gadgets for Every Season.” Visit masterthepossibilities.org or call (352) 861-9751 for tickets.

1/16 -4/3

Chain Reaction Charlie

1/16

Ocala Downtown Market

1/16

Brownwood Farmers Market

1/16

Florida Fun Mini Match

1/16

Discovery Center, 701 NE Sanchez Ave. Saturday 10am-5pm, Tuesday-Friday 10am-12:30 and 2:304:30pm This new exhibit allows kids of all ages to get hands-on in Charlie’s garden, tree house and workshop to make incredible new inventions. Visit mydiscoverycenter.org for more information.

310 SE Third St. 9am-2pm A variety of vendors offer local fruits and vegetables, meats and seafood, fresh pasta, honey, arts and crafts, rain or shine. Visit ocaladowntownmarket.com for more information.

2726 Brownwood Blvd., Wildwood 9am-1pm More than 70 vendors offer fresh produce and crafts. Visit thevillagesentertainment.com for more information.

Circle Square Cultural Center, 8395 SW 80th St. 10am A ballroom dancing competition to benefit Marion Therapeutic Riding Association. Visit floridafunminimatch.com for more information.

Dual Enrollment Information Session

1/20 -24

WEC Winter Spectacular

1/21

CEP 75 West Networkers

1/21

Farmers Market

1/21

Business After Hours

1/21

Narnia Night

1/21

Park After Dark

Winter Throwdown Party

War Horse Harley Davidson, 5331 N US 441 11:30am-3:30pm Activities will include live music, ax throwing, a cookout and Sunday church service. Visit warhorseharley.com for more information.

1/16 -17

Toy Story

1/16 -17

Professional Bull Riders Monster Energy Invitational

1/16

January Cruise In

1/16

Pups, PJs & Pupcorn

1/17

Polo Match: Women’s League

1/19

1/20

Marion Theatre, 50 S Magnolia Ave. 11:30am Saturday, 4:30pm Sunday TJM Promos will sponsor free showings of “Toy Story.” Use code TJMkid to get free tickets at reillyartscenter.com.

Virtual 6-7pm The College of Central Florida invites high school students and parents to learn about earning high school and college credit at the same time. Attendees receive a waiver of application fees. Register online at cfpatriots.zoom.us or email dualenrollment@cf.edu for more information.

World Equestrian Center, 1390 NW 80th Ave. 8am Spectators are welcome at hunter/jumper and dressage equine events. Parking is free, restaurants are open and leashed dogs are permitted. Visit wec.net for more information.

Canterfield of Ocala, 9589 SW State Road 200 8-9:30am Contact Laurel Ziemann at (352) 817-6984 for more information.

Circle Square Commons, 8405 SW 80th St. 9am-1pm Locally grown seasonal produce, baked goods, plants and more. Visit circlesquarecommons.com/farmersmarket for more information.

World Equestrian Center, 1390 NW 80th Ave. 5-7pm The Ocala/Marion Chamber and Economic Partnership’s cornerstone monthly networking event. Visit cepocala.com for more information.

Marion Theatre, 50 S Magnolia Ave. 5:30pm This Reels and Reading for Powerful Communities event features the film “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” with featured drink “White Witch’s hot chocolate” and free popcorn. Attendees are asked to bring school supplies or gift cards to donate to Marion County Literacy Council. Visit reillyartscenter.com for tickets and more information.

Sholom Park, 7110 SW 80th Ave. 6pm Roast marshmallows around the campfire and join in a singa-long with musician Mark Smythe. Visit sholompark.org for registration information.

Arts

Now Nature’s Beauty: Seeing & Feeling -1/30

Brick City Center for the Arts, 23 SW Broadway St. Tuesday-Friday 10am-5pm, Saturday 11am-4pm A collective art exhibit featuring artworks by Dr. Jillian Ramsammy and photography by Dr. Saul Reyes. Opening reception January 8, 5-6pm; exhibit open Tuesday-Saturday through January 30. Email Ashley.justiniano@mcaocala.com for more information.

Southeastern Livestock Pavilion, 2200 NE Jacksonville Road 2pm Elite bull riders from around the world compete on the league’s Unleash the Beast: American Roots Edition tour. Visit pbrtix. com for tickets and more information.

Spanish Springs Town Square, 1120 Main St., The Villages 4-9pm A free car show featuring classic cars 30 years old and older along with live music by Blonde Ambition. The event benefits Shared Harvest. Visit thevillagesentertainment.com for more information.

Ocala Drive-In 5pm The Secret Life of Pets and A Dog’s Purpose, with a pre-movie market for the Humane Society of Marion County. Visit fb.com/humanemarion for more information.

Florida Horse Park, 11008 S Highway 475 1-3pm Bring chairs, a picnic and the family and enjoy a live polo match. Visit ocalapolo.com for more information.

Tuesday Talk

Ocala/Marion County Chamber & Economic Partnership, 310 SE 3rd St. 8:15-9:30am Harry Daniels of Dugan, Joiner & Co. presents “Tax Strategies for the new IRA Contributions and Withdrawals.” Visit cepocala.com to register.

1/19

Biz Promoters Networks Group

1/19

Appleton Book Club: Strapless

1/20

1 Million Cups Ocala

Power Plant Business Incubator, 405 SE Osceola Ave. 11:30am-12:30pm Bring your own lunch. Contact tom@ocalacep.com for more information.

Appleton Museum – virtual 7pm The Appleton’s virtual book club will host a free discussion of “Strapless: John Singer Sargent and the Fall of Madame X” by Deborah Davis. Everyone is invited and pre-registration is required. Visit appletonmuseum.org for details.

Power Plant Business Incubator, 405 SE Osceola Ave. 9:30-10:30am Two local startups present their business idea to an audience of community entrepreneurs. Email ryan@ocalacep.com for more information.

Now -2/7

I Hate Hamlet

Now -2/12

Visual Arts Faculty Exhibition

Ocala Civic Theatre 7:30pm A witty play about a young actor dreaming of TV stardom and haunted by the ghost of John Barrymore. Visit ocalacivictheatre.com for tickets.

CF Webber Gallery, 3001 SW College Road 10am-4pm The talent of the College of Central Florida Visual Arts faculty is displayed in an exhibition of ceramics, prints, fiber, photography and mixed media pieces. Open Monday through Thursday. Visit cf.edu for more information.

Now The Art of Adventure -4/25

Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd. Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday noon-5pm An exhibition of 1970s serigraphs by Clayton Pond highlighting artworks from Pond’s “Leisure-time Obsessions Series.” Visit appletonmuseum.org for more information.

Now Luminous Worlds -6/27

Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd. Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday noon-5pm An exhibition featuring the large abstract canvases of Kristin Herzog, a Naples, Florida-based artist and former civil engineering draftsman. Visit appletonmuseum.org for more information.

JANUARY 15 - JANUARY 21, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

1/15

Visions

1/19

Teaching Tuesday: Netsuke

1/19

Art 101

1/21

1/18

1/19 1/19 1/19

Gallery B Art Collective 5-8pm A reception with photographer Dan McCarthy highlighting his detailed local nature images. Visit gallerybocala.com for more information.

Appleton Museum – virtual 10-10:30am The Appleton Museum presents a live streaming art project that the whole family can make at home with basic art and craft supplies. Online at fb.com/appletonmuseum.

Virtual The Appleton Museum offers an instructor-led live Zoom demonstration of winter birch tree acrylic painting. Visit appletonmuseum.org for more information.

Artist’s Outlook: Mark Messersmith

Appleton Museum – virtual 7-8:15pm A free Zoom talk with painter Mark Messersmith, known for his symbolic and colorful statements on Florida’s natural environment. Visit appletonmuseum.org for more information.

1/19

Marion County Commission Planning & Zoning Final Hearing

1/19

Ocala City Council

1/20

Marion County Parks and Recreation Advisory Council

1/20

Ocala Board of Adjustment

1/21

Marion County Development Review Committee Staff Meeting

1/21

Pine Run Estates Advisory Council

1/21

West Ocala Community Redevelopment Area Advisory Committee

1/21

Marion County Local Mitigation Strategy Meeting

1/21

Rainbow Lakes Estates Public Advisory Board

Government Marion County Development Review Committee

Office of the County Engineer, 412 SE 25th Ave. 9am The DRC votes on waiver requests, drainage/site plans, subdivision master plans, preliminary plats, improvement plans and final plats. Call (352) 671-8686 for more information.

Marion County Board of Commissioners

McPherson Government Complex Auditorium, 601 SE 25th Ave. 9am Call (352) 438-2323 for more information.

Marion County Public Hearing

McPherson Government Complex Auditorium, 601 SE 25th Ave. 10am A public hearing to consider adoption of a sheriff-proposed ordinance to prohibit simulated gambling in unincorporated Marion County. Call (352) 438-2300 for more information.

Marion County Hospital District Committees

Hospital District Office, 2547 E. Silver Springs Blvd. Noon Call (352) 622-3662 for more information about the audit, finance, investment, operations and strategic initiatives committee meetings.

McPherson Government Complex Auditorium, 601 SE 25th Ave. 2pm Call (352) 438-2600 for more information.

Ocala City Hall, 110 SE Watula Ave. and online 5pm Call (352) 629-8401 for more information. This meeting will include public hearings on a water/sewer rate increases and imposing fire assessments on property owners. Visit https:// zoom.us/j/446885807 to participate online.

Parks and Recreation Conference Room, 111 SE 25th Ave. 3pm Call (352) 671-8560 for more information.

Ocala City Hall, 110 SE Watula Ave. and online 5:30pm Visit ocalafl.org for more information. Visit https://zoom. us/j/94696168190 to participate online.

Office of the County Engineer Building 1 Conference Room, 412 SE 25th Ave. 8:30am Applicants may discuss proposed or current projects with county review staff prior to meeting formally with the Development Review Committee. Call (352) 671-8686 for more information.

Pine Run Clubhouse, 10379 SW 88th Terrace 10am Call (352) 438-2650 for more information.

MLK Community Building Conference Room, 505 NW Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. 3pm Call (352) 629-8311 for more information.

Green Clover Hall, 319 SE 26th Terrace 4pm Call (352) 438-2611 for more information.

Rainbow Lakes Estates Clubhouse, 4020 SW Deepwater Court, Dunnellon 6:30pm Call (352) 489-4280 for more information.

ENTERTAINMENT CALENDAR 15

5pm Grass Campers

Eaton’s Beach

5pm Paisley Craze

5pm Second Slice

Brownwood Paddock Square

5pm Think Big Band

6pm Jeff Jarrett

Locos Grill & Pub

6:30pm Palomino Blonde

6:30pm Miranda Madison

7pm J. Lilley The Corkscrew

5pm Bobby Blackmon & the B3 Band Brownwood Paddock Square

5pm Earthbeat

6pm Fast Lane

7:30pm Humans in Disguise

8pm Ecliff The Corkscrew

2:30 & 7pm Dion Pride

5pm Southbound

5pm Jerico

5pm The Hooligans

5pm Old Skool Band

5pm Johnny Wild & the Delights

5pm Sherry and the Rockafellas Lake Sumter Landing Market Square

5pm Uncle Bob’s Rock Shop Spanish Springs Town Square

5pm Ampli-Fires Brownwood Paddock Square

Brownwood Paddock Square

5pm Gilly & the Girl Bank Street Patio Bar

Spanish Springs Town Square

5pm Cactus Jack & the Cadillacs Lake Sumter Landing Market Square

Lake Sumter Landing Market Square

5pm Blue Stone Circle Brownwood Paddock Square

Brownwood Paddock Square

5pm Never Never Band Spanish Springs Town Square

Spanish Springs Town Square

Bank Street Patio Bar

Orange Blossom Opry

Circle Square Commons

La Cuisine French Restaurant

5pm Blonde Ambition

Lake Sumter Landing Market Square

The Crazy Cucumber Eatery and Bar

2:30 & 7pm Rumours: A Fleetwood Mac Tribute Orange Blossom Opry

3pm Houston Keen Charlie Horse

Spanish Springs Town Square

Lake Sumter Landing Market Square

Orange Blossom Opry

Spanish Springs Town Square

7pm The Music of Alan Jackson

5pm Steelhorse Lake Sumter Landing Market Square

7pm Jammer All Stars Showcase Orange Blossom Opry

JANUARY 15 - JANUARY 21 , 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Public school COVID numbers Ocala Gazette Staff

arion County Public Schools reported 202 total cases of COVID-19 between Dec. 18 and Jan. 7, according to a report by the school system. Of those testing positive, 100 were students, while 102 were employees. The cases were confirmed by the Florida Department of Health. A total of 522 students and employees were quarantined as a result of direct contact with a COVID-19 case. Those quarantined included 450 students and 72 employees, according to Marion County schools. While the report spans almost three weeks, it covers only a week of school time. Schoosl went on Christmas break on Dec. 18 and returned to classes on Jan. 4. The week before Christmas break saw 98 cases.

The cases and quarantines affected 37 school facilities in the county, including Alternative Learning, Anthony Elementary, Belleview Elementary, Belleview High, Belleview Middle, Belleview-Santos Elementary, College Park Elementary, Curriculum and Instruction Curriculum and Instruction Afterschool Program, Dr. N. H. Jones Elementary, Dunnellon Elementary, Dunnellon High, Dunnellon Middle, Eighth Street Elementary, Emerald Shores Elementary, Exceptional Student Education Facilities, Finance, Food Services, Forest High, Fort King Middle, Fort McCoy, Hammett Bowen Jr. Elementary, Harbour View Elementary, Hillcrest Horizon Academy at Marion Oaks, Howard Middle, Lake Weir High, Lake Weir Middle, Legacy Elementary, Liberty Middle, Madison Street Academy, Maplewood Elementary,

Marion Charter, Marion Oaks Elementary, Marion Technical Institute, North Marion High, North Marion Middle, Ocala Springs Elementary,

Osceola Middle, Romeo Elementary School, Counseling and Assessment, Shady Hill Elementary, Social Work Services, South Ocala Elementary,

Sunrise Elementary, Transportation, Vanguard High, Ward-Highlands Elementary, West Port High, and Wyomina Park Elementary.

From Murdaugh, page 7

Come discover your enviromental impact.

an influential member in the community during this time. She was the only pastor on a forum that included the late Ocala Police Chief Greg Graham and Sheriff Billy Woods in the midst of the Black Lives Matter protests following the death of George Floyd. Murdaugh recalls the mass shooting at the Emanuel AME Church in Charleston in 2015, when nine congregation members were killed. She had a relative who was a pastor there. “One of the things as Christians you have to have a forgiving heart,” Murdaugh said. “You must not act or react, you just have to be able to come to the table so that you can find out what you must do and how do you handle things you are confronted with. And that’s why things have gotten so out of hand, nobody wants to come to the table anymore.”

Rhella Murdaugh [Supplied]

News in Brief 2105 NW 21st Street Ocala, FL | 352-351-6772 The Ocala Wetland Recharge Park incorporates treated wastewater and storm water from the Old City Yard a drainage retention area (DRA), that is located near the park, and has historically flooded during heavy rain events. Stormwater can contain many contaminants like: nitrogen and phosphorus pollutants from fertilizers and pet and yard waste, oil, grease, heavy metals, vehicle coolants, bacteria, and litter. These stormwater contaminants are the leading cause of water pollution. The park captures this polluted water, therefore reducing regional flooding. By sending this water to the Ocala Wetland Recharge Park, the total nitrogen can be reduced to nearly undetectable levels, and the total phosphorus will be greatly reduced. This freshly cleaned water will improve water quality and boost regional groundwater supplies.

Answers for pages 8,9

Marion Transit launches Gold Line route in Marion Oaks Marion Transit announced Tuesday that it will be servicing the Marion Oaks community with a deviated gold line. “While the Marion Oaks community has always had service from Marion Transit, the new Gold Line route is the first time that the area has had a deviated route system (step on, step off service) in place,” a press release

stated. Marion Transit also reminded that while Marion Transit’s Gold Line route is available to all ages, it is meant to be utilized by those who are transportationdisadvantaged. Additionally, in order to use the service, all riders must be pre-registered with Marion Transit.