Ocala Gazette | July 13-19, 2020 by Magnolia Media Company

Fort King Expands See page 8

JULY 13 - JULY 19, 2020 | TWO DOLLARS

Gullett’s goal

Marion residents have a week left to register to vote

Improve schools, district’s image By Brad Rogers Executive Editor

tarting a new job is challenging enough. If that job, however, is leading Marion County’s 43,000-student school district in the midst of the worst pandemic of our lifetimes, challenging doesn’t quite cover it. Welcome to Marion County, Diane Gullett. Gullett started work as Marion County’s new superintendent of schools – its first-ever appointed superintendent – on July 1, just as those who now work for her were finalizing a plan for re-opening local schools on Aug. 10. So how well does she believe the plan will work? “We don’t know what we don’t know,” said Gullett, who grew up in North Florida and is a University of Florida graduate. What she does know is there are plenty of other challenges facing the Marion County Public Schools – challenges she is ready to begin addressing. Asked what her three top priorities are as she assumes her first superintendent’s post, Gullett said they are better communications, both inside and outside of the school system; elevating the image of the school district; and improving the district’s underperforming schools. Regarding communications, Gullett said it is important to include all stakeholders – internal

and external – in discussions and identify what is working well in our schools. Next, the areas that are not working well must be pinpointed and corrective action must be taken based on those practices that are working. The new superintendent said schools help shape the perception of a community through their economic impact, their image as either good or not-so-good and the partnerships they develop with public and private sectors. “People tend to love their individual schools,” she said. “What I think we need to work on is the impact and the reputation of the district as a whole.” Underperforming schools have a special place on Gullett’s priority list. During her time as an area superintendent in Orange County’s schools, she led that county’s efforts to uplift struggling schools. She wants to do the same in Marion County. Already she has reorganized her administration to put more, or at least different emphasis on fixing Marion’s underperforming schools. Gullett believes that Marion County’s ongoing struggles to raise its overall academic performance is part of the reason she is here. “There’s an awareness of that in the decision of the voters to adopt an appointed superintendent,” she said. Beyond those priorities,

By Bill Thompson Deputy Editor

Diane Gullett [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2020

“There are a lot of communities that are not wrapped around improving public education. But I think Marion County is committed to that.” though, Gullett sees her role as that of leader and advocate. She said she will stress support for the schools, the principals and the teachers. Moreover, she intends to advocate for students who do not have equal access to resources, whether that be technology or transportation or tutoring. To do that she will go to

the teachers, then look at the students, the data and copy the successful teachers approaches. “Teachers are first and foremost to the success of students,” Gullett said. She added, “Our purpose is to support the schools … What do the schools need and how do we get it to them.” Gullett is enthusiastic See Gullett, page 2

arion County Elections Supervisor Wesley Wilcox wants voters to know his office is prepared for the Aug. 18 primary. On Thursday, elections staff distributed the initial round of mail-in ballots, the first wave of answering roughly 60,000 voteby-mail requests for the upcoming election, Wilcox noted in his quarterly newsletter, released on July 2. Additionally, he wrote, “All 117 Election Day voting locations and 9 Early Voting sites will be open and equipped to safely process voters.” Meanwhile, election worker training started in June and will continue through the end of July. “We have been very fortunate to staff all of our locations and are thankful for our partnership with the County (Commission) and School Board to supply extra workers.” So, one half of the voting equation – the people who assist voters and tally the ballots – seems set. What about the other half: the actual voters? Fortunately, Marion County has relatively few new potential voters to woo. Marion County, as of June 1, had 252,051 registered voters. By party, that includes 113,697 Republicans, 81,557 Democrats, 54,261 unaffiliated voters and 2,536 who are members of smaller parties. Thus, Marion County has 85 percent of its voting-age population registered to vote. See Voting, page 5

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JULY 13 - JULY 19, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE

Superintendent Diane Gullett listens during a meeting about reopening Marion County Public Schools at the Marion County Public School Board in Ocala, Fla. on Tuesday, July 7, 2020. Members of the Marion County Public Schools School Reopening Task Force presented their ideas for reopening schools on Tuesday. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2020.

From Gullett, page 1 about Marion County’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. She was impressed enough to name Mark Vianello, who built the current CTE program, as her No. 2. Giving students future job options, and informing them of those options early on, is critical to preparing a future workforce and making Marion County graduates competitive in it. That means providing both traditional instruction as well as technology-based education. Noting that today’s students are “digital natives,” Gullett believes that while technology is important to preparing them for the future workplace, students have to have so-called soft skills – proper

manners and the ability to converse, for example – to succeed. “I think you need to look at a balanced approach,” the mother of three millennial sons said, adding that every student has different career goals, some requiring college, some not. “My goal here is when they graduate, they can compete.” Moreover, Gullett believes CTE should be more than vocational education. “CTE has to become part of the core of what we do,” she said. That includes having more strategy, more training and more partnerships; and starting the introduction to career possibilities in middle school or even

earlier. Finally, Gullett said she will work with her staff and the School Board to develop a strategic plan “that is transparent, is based on real data and provides accountability tied to the community. Then we’ll see improvement.” After three decades as a teacher, an administrator and now a superintendent, Gullett believes our community is serious about improving education. “There are a lot of communities that are not wrapped around improving public education,” she said. “But I think Marion County is committed to that.”

As for her new role as an appointed superintendent, Gullett said she will not be afraid to ask for big things or push big ideas. “I’m pretty direct,” she said. “I’m an educator, an executive and understand the system of education. I’m not afraid to ask for what’s needed. I think that’s important for a superintendent. Sometimes you have to go against what people think, but you have to explain why.” And her relationship with the School Board? “I have five bosses now. … My job is to inform them and prepare them so they can make an informed decision.”

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JULY 13 - JULY 19, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE

It is what it is By Brad Rogers Executive Editor “Our liberty depends on the freedom of the press, and that cannot be limited without being lost.” - Thomas Jefferson

Executive Editor Brad Rogers brad@ocalagazette.com Deputy Editor Bill Thompson bill@ocalagazette.com Photography Editor Bruce Ackerman bruce@ocalagazette.com

Publisher Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@magnoliamediaco.com Staff Writers Susan Smiley-Height susan@magnoliamediaco.com Lisa McGinnes lisa@magnoliamediaco.com Graphic Designers Simon Mendoza simon@magnoliamediaco.com Brooke Pace brooke@magnoliamediaco.com Marketing Manager Kylie Swope kylie@magnoliamediaco.com Marketing Coordinator Sabrina Fissell sabrina@magnoliamediaco.com Director of Sales & Promotions Lee Kerr lee@magnoliamediaco.com Account Executives Sarah Belyeu sarah@magnoliamediaco.com Evelyn Anderson evelyn@magnoliamediaco.com Skip Linderman skip@magnoliamediaco.com Client Services Guru Brittany Duval brittany@magnoliamediaco.com Distribution Dave Adams, Rick Shaw

Our mission is to inform and uplift our readers by reporting on the events, issues and stories that shape Ocala with accuracy, fairness and passion. We also strive to serve as a forum where all voices can be heard and to chronicle our community’s history.

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It is what it is. That phrase was uttered over and over during Tuesday’s special Marion County School Board meeting, at the end of which the board voted to re-open local schools on Aug. 10. Fully open. Five days a week. Full classes. Full buses. School pretty much like school always has been. Oh, there will be masks and face shields and quasi-attempts at social distancing. Visitors will have to have appointments and children who show a temperature of over 100 will have to stay home for three days. But make no mistake, no one in the room felt great about sending our children and our teachers into what could be a petri dish for the coronavirus, despite a unanimous vote by the board. But what was the School Board to do? First, they were acting in response to an “emergency order” from state Commissioner of Education Richard Corcoran, who said the state needed to re-open its schools so parents could get back to work and children could get back to the books. Our public schools may be where our kids learn the 3 R’s, but they’re also

free day care, and that was lost on nobody at the School Board meeting. Then, of course, is this truth: it is not emotionally and, in some cases, physically healthy for children not to be in school. There they get needed socialization, get to bond with friends and, for a depressingly significant number, find shelter and safety from abusive family members or neglect. Board member Beth McCall, who is executive director of the Marion County Children’s Alliance, noted that too many kids have been stuck at home with abusers for too long. She’s right, sadly. And let’s not forget about the school part of school. Turns out, distance learning on the fly like we saw after the lockdown this spring caused large numbers of students to lose ground academically. So, after four hours of talk, the board voted to re-open schools here. There was, to be sure, was, no sense of celebration. It is what it is. But there’s this. Florida is in the midst of a soaring number of cases of coronavirus. Thousands -- close to 10,0000 every day -- of new victims are identified daily. More than 4,000

Floridians have died … and counting. Younger people are now showing up in our hospitals in increasing numbers. And, despite what the president or the governor or their minions say, things are not under control. Nor is the coronavirus just going to go away, no matter how much Donald J. Trump wishes it would. On top of that, Florida, like much of the nation, is facing a serious teacher shortage. Right now, there are nearly 2,500 teacher vacancies statewide. So, while scientists say children are a lot less likely to show symptoms of the virus, they also say children can be asymptomatic while yet spreading the virus. Almost one-third of Marion County teachers are over 50. Not a good combination. And never mind how many other children an asymptomatic child would infect, with his newly infected classmates taking the virus home with them. I asked School Board member Kelly King, a teacher herself, what would happen if 200 of Marion’s 3,000-plus teachers contracted COVID-19 and had to be quarantined. Would it be a crisis for the school district? Her response: If the district lost 50 teachers, it would be a crisis – both

a human crisis and a human resources crisis. Sigh. It is what it is. I don’t know the right thing to do. Yes, parents need to get back to work earning a paycheck and businesses need to do business. And children need to get back to some normal routine where they are learning and living and being kids again. At the same time, while children have been largely spared the viciousness of COVID-19, what will happen when they are packed together into classrooms and buses day after day? And what about our much, much more vulnerable teachers? Are they going to be given any special protection? Is that even possible? Alas, it is what it is. But it is telling that part of the Marion County report on re-opening the schools, called “Responsibly Re-opening and Beyond,” has a section titled “Second Interruption.” That’s in case COVID-19 ravages our schools and schools have to be shuttered again. Doesn’t sound like the school district is too confident the re-opening will work out. And you want to guess what those who made these decisions will say if that happens? It is what it is. I hate this virus.

Duke reports record number of reported scam attempts

cams targeting electric and natural gas customers are on the rise, with imposters implementing new tactics during the COVID-19 pandemic to trick utility customers out of money and personal information. June 2020 was the highest single month on record for reported scam attempts targeting Duke Energy customers, hitting more than 4,000. The total number of scam attempts reported by Duke Energy customers so far in 2020 – more than 15,000 – already is approaching 2019’s fullyear total of 18,000. “Unfortunately, the scammers appear to be preying on the uncertainty and financial hardship caused by the pandemic, and they are tracking trends and adjusting their tactics,” said Jared Lawrence,

Duke Energy’s vice president of revenue services and metering. “As new scam techniques are employed, it is imperative that customers stay alert, informed and make a concerted effort to guard their personal information and wallets.” Scammers have added a new tactic, which promises to mail customers refund checks for overpayments on their accounts if they can confirm their personal data, including birthdays and, in some cases, Social Security numbers. Generally, Duke Energy will apply refunds as a credit to customers’ accounts and will not contact customers to verify personal information by phone, email or in person in order to mail a check. Scam reports also indicate that phone

scammers posing as utility providers continue to call and insist customers are delinquent on their bills. The scammer typically claims a service disconnection is pending, rigs caller ID to mimic your utility provider, and demands an immediate payment in the form of a prepaid debit card. Common scam tactics include: • A call with pre-recorded voice, often referred to as a robocall, with a caller ID display showing the customer’s utility’s name. • Threats to disconnect power service to a customer’s home or business within an hour. • Immediate payment demands by prepaid debit card. • And, with many

utilities suspending nonpay disconnections during the COVID-19 pandemic, scammers are now promising refund checks if the customer makes a payment and the pending disconnect was an error. Customers can learn about recent scams and how to recognize the warning signs on the Federal Trade Commission website www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/ scam-alerts. Visit duke-energy. com/stopscams or utilitiesunited.org for more information and tips about how customers can protect themselves from impostor utility scams, or follow along on social media: Twitter @DukeEnergy or @U_U_A_S and Facebook @Duke Energy or @UtilitiesUnited.

JULY 13 - JULY 19, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE

Schools face ‘significant challenges’ as board votes to re-open

Ben Whitehouse of Marion County Public Schools talks about the plan for reopening Marion County Public Schools during a meeting at the Marion County Public School Board in Ocala, FL. on Tuesday, July 7, 2020. Members of the Marion County Public Schools School Reopening Task Force presented their ideas for reopening schools on Tuesday. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2020.

Superintendent Diane Gullett, left, talks with Kevin Christian, the PIO of Marion County Public Schools, right, before the start of a meeting about reopening Marion County Public Schools at the Marion County Public School Board in Ocala, FL. on Tuesday, July 7, 2020. [Bruce Ackerman/ Ocala Gazette] 2020.

By Brad Rogers Executive Editor

he Marion County School Board voted unanimously Tuesday to re-open all county schools on Aug. 10, approving a 73page plan that gives parents a choice between enrolling their children in regular in-person classes or online instruction. Parents have until July 15 to make a choice between in-person or online education for their children. After that, a student will be automatically be enrolled in their regular school. The board based its decision on the recommendations of the 130-person Re-Opening Schools Task Force’s report that delved into four aspects of returning some semblance of normality to public education: instructional delivery, health and safety, scheduling and, in case the pandemic worsens, a second interruption. “We have to get back to

normalcy as soon as possible,’ said Mark Vianello, district deputy superintendent, who headed the task force. In addition to facing an emergency order from state Education Commissioner Richard Corcoran to resume schools in August, Vianello said children need to be back in the classroom to restore the “emotional and social foundation” that all children need. This, despite the reality that COVID -19 cases are spiking in Florida, including Marion County, which saw it number of cases pass 1,000 this week. While the re-opening plan calls for students and teachers to wear masks and face shields, as well as regular sanitizing and social distancing as much as possible, School Board members and administrators conceded they face “significant challenges.” Their own report includes provisions for “a second interruption,” the possibility that schools

Members of the Marion County Public School Board listen to the plan for reopening Marion County Public Schools during a meeting at the Marion County Public School Board in Ocala, Fla. on Tuesday, July 7, 2020. Members of the Marion County Public Schools School Reopening Task Force presented their ideas for reopening schools on Tuesday. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2020.

may have to be closed again if the number of coronavirus cases continue to surge. Despite the obvious risks of resuming school – something school officials repeatedly acknowledged -- a survey of 21,945 Marion County parents showed that 49 percent of them want their children back in school in August. Another 22 percent would rather wait until after Labor Day, while 16 percent favored waiting until January. About 13 percent said they did not want their children returning to school for face-to-face learning for the 2020-21

“What we are doing right now is surviving in the midst of a hurricane.” -Eric Cummings

school year. Under the plan, each child and teacher will be provided a plastic face mask. The school routine will include school five days a week, normal arrival and dismissal times, changing classes, breakfast and lunch and extracurricular activities. Those students taking online classes will also be expected to adhere to a regular school day routine, with regular classes limited in time, class changes, a lunch break and after-school activities. Arrival times are likely to be staggered to avoid large gatherings of students before school. There will not, however, be special distancing on buses, although masks will be required. Corcoran’s order calls on schools to open and offer “the full panoply of services” to students. He said opening is necessary to keep children from continuing to lose ground academical-

ly. That slide began when schools closed in March and school districts moved to online learning. According to Marion officials, half of local students showed a learning decline in a least one subject during the last nine-week period of the past school year. A couple rules that will affect parents: • Visitors to school must have an appointment, wear a mask and social distance. • Outside food is prohibited. • If a student has a temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher, they will not be allowed back on campus for at least 72 hours, or three days. Nine members of the public spoke at the meeting. Teachers were particularly vocal. “The governor and surgeon general reminded Floridians on the 4h of July to protect the vulnerable by avoiding the Three C’s: closed spaces, crowded places and close contact,” Bel-

JULY 13 - JULY 19, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE leview Middle School teacher Cheryl Lindstrom said. “That’s my middle school classroom.” “We deserve and have earned respect, to be valued for our contribution, to be considered when this decision is made as we are the vulnerable ones – being asked again to give and do more than any other group. To risk our very lives.” Vickie Treulieb, a Forest High teacher and a parent, echoed her remarks: “I’m supposed to go back to class with these local youth and risk my life to teach them? Let the weight of that set in. Teachers and staff will be risking their lives.” Dr. Axel Martinez, an Ocala geriatrician, told board members the community is not ready to re-open schools because of the soaring number of virus cases and that employees would “take the biggest hit.” As for students, he said they would be spreaders who would take the virus home. “The primary care physicians are not ready,” he said, adding “it’s not about the health of the kids but about the health of the community.” School Board member Beth

McCall, noting that she also serves as executive director of the Marion County Children’s Alliance, said while the inherent risks of re-opening schools are obvious, too many children are at risk staying at home. She noted that child abuse reports are way down, largely because school officials are often the ones who call authorities to report abuse cases. “We have children we have not had eyes on in months,” McCall lamented. New Superintendent of Schools Diane Gullett, attending her first School Board meeting, assured board members and the community that the district would be flexible and ready to pivot when and if it needs to. Board Chairman Eric Cummings likened the current school district response to preparing for a hurricane, calling the pandemic Hurricane Corona. “In the midst of a hurricane, you just don’t give up,” Cummings said. “You don’t throw in the towel. You just keep surviving. So, what we are doing right now is surviving in the midst of a hurricane.”

People listen to the plan for reopening Marion County Public Schools. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2020.

From Voting, page 1 Comparatively, for the November 2018 election, 67 percent of America’s voting-age population was registered to vote, according to the Census Bureau’s most recent data. Despite that, even under the best circumstances, local elections will be decided by a relatively small fraction of voters. Despite the strong registration numbers, turnout in Marion County can be underwhelming for elections like the upcoming August primary. For instance, voter turnout has averaged just 23 percent for primaries held in presidential-election years but that excludes the actual presidential contests, which are held separately. Wilcox’s office offers a few ways to register to vote. Those interested can visit RegistertoVoteFlorida.gov; visit the county elections headquarters at 981 N.E. 16th St. in Ocala; or download a printable application at votemarion.com and return it in person or by mail to PO Box 289, Ocala, FL 34478-0289. Potential voters can also submit applications at county tax collector’s offices or at public libraries.

Ballots machines are shown at the Marion County Election Center in Ocala, Fla. on Monday, June 29, 2020. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2020.

But Wilcox cautions prospective voters to be wary of unsolicited registration applications from the either the Voter Participation Center or the Center for Voter Information. Back in April, Wilcox was among 34 county elections supervisors who urged Florida Secretary of State Laurel Lee to crack down on these groups, which were founded and operated by out-ofstate Democratic

Marion County has 85 percent of its votingage population registered to vote.

political strategists. Under the guise of purporting to help people register to vote or vote by mail, the group has sent wrong, misleading, or incomplete information to voters that looks real enough. Yet in the letter Wilcox and the other supervisors described their work as an “insidious” and “deceptive enterprise that is causing confusion, disruption and fear among voters in our state.” The mailers the groups send are often addressed to dead people, minors, voters who are already registered,

and even pets. “These mailers not only unnecessarily frighten voters (seniors in particular) but are counter-productive to ongoing voter registration and vote-by-mail efforts being undertaken by Supervisors of Elections, the political parties and regulated, legitimate groups,” the supervisors’ letter stated. “Each time, following these mass mailers, our offices are inundated with terrified voters who are concerned that their personal information has been compromised or wrongly shared and they

are especially upset when – as it happens all-too-frequently – the data used by this shadow group is wrong and thereby causes further alarm.” “This practice,” they concluded, “is disruptive, misleading and harmful, and its effect “erodes the public’s faith in the good voter registration work already occurring around Florida and even undermines democracy itself.” Any county resident who wants more information on voter registration can visit www.votemarion.com or contact Wilcox’s office at (352) 620-3290.

JULY 13 - JULY 19, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE

Mini artworks make big impact By Susan Smiley-Height Staff Writer

“I experienced what public art brings to a community. So, I wanted to give back, like a gift to the city.”

Photos courtesy of City of Ocala

f you happen to be bopping around downtown Ocala and spy a bread-box size Reilly Arts Center, with the signature purple accents, you have found one of the installations of the new “Small Spaces, Big Places” public art project. The City of Ocala, which continues to gain notoriety for its public art endeavors, such as the famed Horse Fever series, outdoor sculptures in Tuscawilla Park and numerous murals, recently unveiled the new addition. The city’s Cultural Arts and Sciences Division commissioned artist Diane Cahal to create the works to bring awareness to 10 local not-for-profit organizations that have been featured as part of the City’s Levitt Amp Ocala Music Series. The project was funded in part by a grant from the Ocala Municipal Arts Commission through the State of the Arts license plate fees. The artworks are miniature versions of the home-base of each organization, such as the Ocala Civic Theatre and the Appleton Museum of Art, which is complete with the lovely water feature in the entryway and a trio of elephants. One display is of the Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Park on MLK Avenue. The miniatures are displayed in “secret gardens” throughout the downtown area. They are anchored into the landscape and QR codes will help lead viewers on an interactive journey. Cahal earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in photography with a minor in studio art from Sam Houston State University in Texas. She moved to Marion County more than 20 years ago. She opened Artistic LunaSea in

2001 and continues to attract international collectors with her Polaroid manipulations, abstract watercolor and acrylic paintings, dioramas and miniatures. She has been involved with a number of area arts organizations and currently is vice president of the Magnolia Art Xchange. For the Marion Cultural Alliance’s popular Horse Fever projects, Cahal painted Sunburst and Ocala Luna. She said through that endeavor, “I experienced what public art brings to a community.” “So, I wanted to give back, like a gift to the city,” she remarked. “I saw the Tiny Doors project in Atlanta and talked to a lady there but decided to not do that. I made a demo piece instead, that was gone in two days, and then the city approached me and said, ‘We can help.’” She said the works are not to scale, are not models and are not replicas: “They are my artistic impression.” She said the city made the stands the miniatures are mounted on and she worked with their horticulturists on how to incorporate them into the landscapes. She was working on the 10 pieces when the pandemic hit. “A lot of my materials were coming from China and Germany, so that put a hold on it,” she explained. “It was nice, however, to have the extra time, because I put so much more detail in them.” She said the works are coated in a heavy resin and she hopes they will remain viable for at least six or eight months. For information about selfguided public art tours, visit Ocala.oncell.com. To learn more, visit www.ocalafl.org/ culturalarts.

JULY 13 - JULY 19, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE

State Road 200 resurfacing nearing completion

A motorist drives on State Road 200 past uneven pavement which has not been completely resurfaced near I-75 in Ocala, Fla. on Tuesday, July 7, 2020. The Florida DOT project has been ongoing for more than two years. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2020.

By Brad Rogers Executive Editor

tate transportation officials say a two-year project to improve State Road 200 from Interstate 75 to Southwest 60th Avenue should be finished by summer’s end. The project, which got under way in August 2018, includes two phases of improvements. The first phase includes new turn lanes for SR 200-I-75 interchange on-ramps as well as the right-turn lane in the westbound lane of SR 200 that leads to the northbound on-ramp to the interstate. On- and offramps from I-75 are also being widened to provide additional turn lanes. Finally, this phase also provides for improving curb ramps to meet current Americans with Disabilities Act mandates, plus improved pedestrian

signaling, lighting, guardrails, landscaping and drainage. The second phase of the project, which drivers tend to notice more acutely, is the resurfacing of SR 200 from Southwest 38th Court (the street that runs next to Sam’s Club) to Southwest 60th Avenue. In addition to new asphalt, this three-mile stretch is also getting upgraded sidewalks, along with improved gutters, curbs and signalization, DOT officials said. The DOT issued a statement saying drivers should expect uneven lanes until the new asphalt is fully in place. The two phases cost taxpayers about $6.8 million -- $3.5million for the SR 200-I-75 interchange improvements and $3.3 million for the repaving work from Sam’s to Southwest 60th. The final resurfacing work is currently under way.

[Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2020.

Carter’s now open

Ashley Wheeler-Gerds, the general manager of Paddock Mall, center left, and Andrea Graham, the general manager of Carter’s, center right, cut the ribbon as members of the Ocala/Marion County Chamber and Economic Partnership look on during the grand opening of Carter’s in Gaitway Plaza on Southwest College Road in Ocala, Fla. on Monday, July 6, 2020. The new store sells clothing and toys for young children and features the Carter’s and OshKosh B’gosh brands. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2020.

Addie Farrell, 4, and her mother, Marisa, go shopping together during the grand opening of Carter’s in Gaitway Plaza on Southwest College Road in Ocala, Fla. on Monday, July 6, 2020. The new store sells clothing and toys for young children and features the Carter’s and OshKosh B’gosh brands. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2020.

JULY 13 - JULY 19, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE

The reconstructed fort is shown at the Fort King National Historical Landmark on Southeast Fort King Street in Ocala, Fla. on Wednesday, July 8, 2020. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2020.

A new chapter in retelling Fort King’s history is set to unfold By Bill Thompson Deputy Editor

he Fort King Heritage Association is proceeding with a nearly $15 million plan to bolster the locally renowned historical site as an educational tool and as a magnet for tourists. Appearing before the County Commission and Ocala City Council on Tuesday, representatives of the association unveiled the concept for the site spanning the next 15 years. The centerpiece will be a 21,000-square-foot museum and educational center, according to association board member Bill Tucker. The plan also calls for completing existing buildings both inside and outside the fort. “We believe that, looking over the next 15 years, this will end up being a world-class facility that will bring people from all over the United States in to study the Seminole wars,” Tucker told the County Commission. Both the County Commission and City Council unanimously approved the plan. Bill Rodriguez, head of the city’s parks division, expects the facility will be a boon as an educational and tourism resource. He told the County Commission that most tourists in Florida visit a historical site while here, and that they tend to spend more time and money than other guests. In an interview, Rodriguez said the document will be forwarded to the state within the next 60 days for final approval. No pitfalls are anticipated, he added, primarily because the Seminole tribe has been intimately involved in developing the plan.

Paul Backhouse, senior director of the Seminole tribe’s heritage and environmental resources department, concurred. As a result, the Seminoles are “absolutely behind” the project, he said.

“I’m all for getting history out there, I just hope the whole story gets told.” -Darrell Riley

Rodriguez, he said, “has been very good at involving the tribe in every step of the planning. We’re very excited about what they’re doing.” As state officials vet the plan, work at the 42-acre site, which was designated a national historic landmark in 2004, can continue. For example, Rodriguez said, the effort to replicate the blacksmith shop remains ongoing and is expected to be finished in the fall. The point of the master plan, Rodriguez said, is to give the Fort King Heritage Association, or FKHA, “something to go off ” when seeking funding for the project, whose cost was derived from restoration projects done at the Silver River Museum in Ocala and others around the state. Private donors and fundraising events will be an avenue the FKHA will explore. But the group will also work to secure funding through federal and state appropriations or grants. The plan “allows these guys to go

up to the legislative branches and tell them we’re looking for help in telling our state history and our national history,” Rodriguez said. “They’ve really ramped up the board and have the know-how to go after these funds.” The FKHA board includes state Rep. Charlie Stone, R-Ocala, as well as former Florida House Speaker Larry Cretul and county Tax Collector George Albright, who spent 12 years in the Legislature before being elected to his current post. The association can certainly make the case Fort King is a prominent piece of Florida’s history. In the first half of the 19th century it served as a U.S. Army outpost on the frontier of Native American lands as white settlers pushed south. Foremost among those Native American tribes were the Seminoles. In 1834, the federal government inked a treaty with some Seminoles to leave the region. But others in the

tribe objected and the government subsequently maneuvered to forcibly remove them. Violent clashes ensued. In December 1835 Maj. Francis Dade led troops from the Tampa area to reinforce Fort King. The Seminoles ambushed him en route to Ocala. That same day in Ocala, the famed Seminole war chief Osceola led an attack on Fort King that killed Wiley Thompson, the federal agent appointed to oversee the Seminoles’ removal, and a handful of others. The incidents ignited the Second Seminole War, a seven-year-long conflict that became the longest and bloodiest fight between the U.S. Army and the Native Americans. According to Rodriguez, the restoration project will encompass the new education center and museum, estimated at $7.4 million and slated for completion in 2025. Also planned are replicas of troops quarters, a mess hall that later became the first county courthouse for Marion Coun-

Rendering courtesy of Fort King Historic Landmark

JULY 13 - JULY 19, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE

Graph courtesy of Fort King Historic Landmark

ty, a guard shack and other features, such as a walking trail and public restrooms. Rodriguez added that if historical records verify its location, the updated Fort King also will house a replica of the Indian Removal Agency building that served as Wiley Thompson’s headquarters. Overall, the project is expected to cost $14.7 million. Darrell Riley, a history professor at the College of Central Florida, said he welcomed the project. But, he added, to truly represent the history

of Fort King it should recall all who helped shape the story of the area. “I just hope this site is a lot more inclusive than the original reconstruction,” said Riley, noting that the initial attempt was unfavorable to the Seminoles and didn’t sufficiently convey the contribution of black Americans. “I know the Fort King Heritage Association has tried to work with the Seminoles and with some success, but it’s got to improve because building that fort might be seen as not a good thing -- because (for the

Seminoles) Fort King was something to be hated.” “I’m all for getting history out there,” said Riley, “I just hope the whole story gets told.” Rodriguez said it will be. The Seminole tribe has been involved along the way, he said, pointing out that he made their partnership a priority after joining the city five years ago from the National Park Service. “We want to make sure we are telling 100 percent of the story,” Rodriguez said. “That’s been out full

intention from the get-go and we won’t waver from that.” Backhouse applauded Rodriguez for that. “It was very much one-sided, but now the tribe’s voice is front and center,” Backhouse said. “He’s pretty relentless in providing us as much input as possible. So, we will be engaged as much as possible. The tribe is really behind everything they’re doing, and the opportunity here is making sure future members of the tribe can be involved in Fort King.”

Property pictured - Truly Magical Farm 601 SE 145th Street, Summerfield, FL 34491

JULY 13 - JULY 19, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE

July 18 | 2-6 pm Paddock Mall

Win a dream wedding! RSVP at ocalastyle.com/bridal

Community Dates Marion County Public Libraries Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays | 5-6pm Vary Free meals for children ages 1-18 are offered at Marion Summer Break Spot

County Public Libraries. Mondays: Reddick and Fort McCoy; Tuesdays: Belleview; Thursdays: Dunnellon and Freedom; Fridays: Headquarters and Forest. Meals are sponsored by the USDA and provided by Shores Assembly of God. If children are not present, parents/guardians must bring their IDs. Call (352) 671-8551 for more information.

Misty Risko, a librarian, serves free dinners during the Summer BreakSpot program at the Belleview Public Library in Belleview, Fla. on Tuesday, June 30, 2020. The members of the Belleview Public Library staff were busy serving and giving away 50 free dinners for kids in Belleview on Tuesday evening. The Summer BreakSpot program is hosted by the Marion County Public Library System and has been sponsored by the USDA for the past three years. The meals were prepared by the Shores Assembly of God Church. The ongoing free meals program runs from June 8 to July 27 and is offered at seven Marion County libraries across the county. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2020.

7/14

NetWorks Referral and Advisory Group

Power Plant Business Incubator, 405 SE Osceola Ave. 8:15-9:15am Email tom@ocalacep.com for more information.

7/14

Networking University

7/14

Novels at Night Book Club

7/9

Brick City Farmer’s Market

7/14

Stiletto Network

7/14

Virtual Information Session

7/15

ExCEPtional Mornings Breakfast

7/15

1 Million Cups Ocala

7/16

CEP 75 West Networkers

7/16

Circle Square Commons Farmers Market

7/16

Brick City Farmer’s Market

7/16

Business After Hours

7/17

Marion County Friday Market

7/18

Ocala Downtown Market

7/18

Ocala Style Bridal Show

Ocala/Marion County Chamber & Economic Partnership (CEP), 310 SE 3rd Ave. 11:30am-1pm CEP members are invited to learn how the pros build their business through making connections. Email jim@ocalacep. com for more information.

Marion County Public Library - virtual 4-5pmJuly 9 | 9am-1pm Join a lively online book discussion of Tara Westover’s “Educated” with other readers. Call (352) 671-8551 for more information.

Beautiful Moments 4-8pm This new local market brings together farmers and artisan vendors who offer fresh produce, herbs, pasta, eggs, and baked goods as well as locally crafted soaps and jewelry. www.brickcityfarmersmarket.com

CenterState Bank, 1632 E. Silver Springs Blvd. 4-5pm Email tom@ocalacep.com for more information.

College of Central Florida – virtual 6-7pm Parents are invited to learn about the college application process and financial aid and receive a waiver of application fees. Email admissions@cf.edu for information on how to join this Zoom meeting.

Church of Hope, 3233 SE Maricamp Rd. 7:30-9am CEP partners and their guests are invited to learn about topics that impact local businesses and our community. To register, call (352) 629-8051.

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.

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

On Top of the World, 8405 SW 80th St. 9am-1pm Shop the outdoor market featuring local produce, plants, baked goods and specialty items. www.circlesquarecommonsfarmersmarket.com

Beautiful Moments, 3400 SW 60th Ave. 4-8pm Farmers and artisan vendors offer fresh produce, herbs, pasta, eggs, and baked goods as well as locally crafted soaps and jewelry. www.brickcityfarmersmarket.com

Ocala/Marion County Chamber & Economic Partnership – virtual 5-6pm The CEP’s most popular networking event goes online. Space is limited; register at www.ocalacep.com.

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.

SE 3rd Street and SE 3rd Avenue 9am-2pm A variety of vendors offer local fruits and vegetables, meats and seafood, fresh pasta, honey, arts and crafts, rain or shine. www.ocaladowntownmarket.com

Paddock Mall, 3100 SW College Rd. 2-6pm Brides-to-be are invited for a free fashion show, DJ and dancing, dance demonstrations, food tastings and photo booth. $20 VIP tickets include champagne bar, gift bag, exclusive giveaways and the chance to win a dream wedding. RSVP at www.ocalastyle.com/bridal.

JULY 13 - JULY 19, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE

Now -7/18 7/15

Arts Ocklawaha: Wild & Endangered River

Brick City Center for the Arts, 23 SW Broadway St. 2pm Marion Cultural Alliance and Free the Ocklawaha invite you to a mixed-media art exhibit featuring award-winning photographers, Paleo-art sculptors and landscape painters. www.mcaocala.org Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St. 10am Music students and their families are invited to join professional Ocala Symphony Orchestra musicians for this free event. Learn how an orchestra operates and be inspired by symphonic music. www.reillyartscenter.com

Acting Shakespeare

7/17

Pet and Animal Portrait Mixed Media Class

7/13

City of Dunnellon Historic Preservation Board

7/15

Marion County Parks and Recreation Advisory Council

7/15

Marion County Affordable Housing Advisory Committee

7/16

Marion County Development Review Committee Staff Meeting

7/16

Marion County Local Mitigation Strategy Meeting

7/16

Rainbow Lakes Estates Public Advisory Board

Symphony for Students

7/15, 22, 29

7/17

7/14

The Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center – virtual 1-4pm This three-session workshop introduces acting students ages 14 and up to the rhythms, rhetorical devices and historical context of the timeless works of The Bard. Participants must attend all three sessions. Visit www.thesharon.com/academy for more information. Marion County Literacy Council, 120 SW 5th St. 5:30-8:30pm Learn how to capture your pet or favorite animal—no experience necessary. Local artist Maggie Weakley invites you to experiment with stamps, paints, papers and patterns to create a one-of-a-kind work of art. Call (352) 615-5429 to register.

The Violet Sisters

The Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center – virtual 7pm Two sisters reunite after Hurricane Sandy and learn to forgive when they cannot forget in this realistic comedy filmed at The Studio Theatre Stage and offered online. Visit www.thesharon. com for tickets.

Government

7/16

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.

7/13

City of Belleview Site Plan Committee

Dunnellon City Hall, 20750 River Dr., Dunnellon 5:30pm Call (352) 465-8500 for more information.

Parks and Recreation Conference Room, 111 SE 25th Ave. 3pm The Advisory Council aids the Parks and Recreation Department on policy issues. Call (352) 671-8560 for more information.

Growth Services Training Room, 2710 E. Silver Springs Blvd. 3:30pm Call (352) 671-8774 for more information.

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.

Growth Services Training Room, 2710 E. Silver Springs Blvd. Call (352) 438-2600 for more information.

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

Equine Equine Initiative Meeting

Ocala Breeders Sales (OBS) Pavilion, 1701 SW 60th Ave. 2-2:30pm CEP equine partners are invited to tour OBS and learn how the 2-year-old in training sale works. Email louisa@ocalacep. com for more information.

ENTERTAINMENT CALENDAR

6-9pm Miranda MADison La Cuisine French Restaurant

7-10pm Delta Rose Band Circle Square Commons

7/13

Marion County Family Law Advisory Group

6-9pm D and Nate Project Hiatus Brewing Company

9pm-12am Jeff Jarrett The Lodge

7/13

Dunnellon City Council Meeting

6-9pm Heather Lynne Horse & Hounds Restaurant & Pub

1-4pm Jeff Jarrett Swamp’s Bar & Grille, Dunnellon

7/13

Marion County Historical Commission

6-9pm Lou Katz Hiatus Brewing Company

3-7pm Conrad Marcum Gator Joe’s Beach Bar & Grill

7/14

Marion County Soil and Water Conservation District Board

7/14

Marion County License Review Board

7/14

City of Belleview Planning & Zoning Board

7/14

City of Dunnellon Historic Preservation Board

Dennis Monroe Public Works Complex, 5525 SE 119th St., Belleview 9-10am Call (352) 245-7021 for more information. Marion County Courthouse, 110 NW First Ave. 3:30pm Call (352) 253-4451 for more information.

Dunnellon City Hall, 20750 River Dr., Dunnellon 5:30pm Call (352) 465-8500 for more information. Growth Services Training Room, 2710 E. Silver Springs Blvd. 6pm Call (352) 620-0944 for more information.

USDA Ocala Service Center - virtual 9:30am To participate in this phone meeting, call (515) 6049578, access code 633 286. Call (352) 414-7808 for more information.

Growth Services Training Room, 2710 E. Silver Springs Blvd. 5:30pm The License Review Board hears and investigate complaints regarding competency of licensed contractors. Call (352) 4382428 for more information. City Hall Commission Room, 5343 SE Abshier Blvd., Belleview 5:30-6:30pm Call (352) 245-7021 for more information. Dunnellon City Hall, 20750 River Dr., Dunnellon 5:30pm Call (352) 465-8500 for more information.

JULY 13 - JULY 19, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE

[Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2020.

County officials lay plans for sales tax revenues, provided voters are convinced to go along By Bill Thompson Deputy Editor

or county officials, developing the next round of projects that will be funded by Marion County’s 1-cent local sales tax seems to be the easy part. Convincing voters to renew the tax in November may be the main challenge. At a July 6 workshop, the County Commission got a glimpse of a renewed list of items staff has in store, if the tax is renewed. The proposed project list totals roughly $226 million and includes: • Nearly $11 million to rebuild or renovate four fire stations, part of a total $26 million package for Marion County Fire Rescue that also includes several replacement fire trucks. • Almost $10 million to upgrade the county jail, including new security fencing and electronic cell-door controls for four pods. The Sheriff ’s Office is slated to receive an additional $32.5 million that would pay for new patrol cars, a replacement mobile command unit, a new aircraft hangar and special operations building as well as gun range and a driving training facility. • More than $117 million in road projects. The bulk of which will target developing new road capacity improvements for the Southwest 49th Avenue and Northwest-Southwest 80th/70th Avenue corridors, as well as much needed road resurfacing countywide. • $7 million for new ambulances and a new $2.7 million emergency services station in western Marion County. One thing that didn’t make the list was a new helicopter for Sheriff Billy Woods.

The 1-cent local sales tax initiative passed in 2016 with 55 percent support.

JULY 13 - JULY 19, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE At the workshop, CEP CEO Kevin Sheilley told the board, “This is our priority.” He added that the CEP’s political action committee would run a “fullsized” campaign in the fall to rally voter support. Sheilley said that initiative would focus on reminding voters what has been accomplished with the tax, which passed in 2016 with 55 percent support, as well as what is planned for the future. A key selling point, he said, will be highlighting that a sizeable chunk of the funding – an estimated 30 percent – has been provided by people who live outside Marion County. That figure includes tourists and visitors from elsewhere who come to Marion to work or for other reasons.

for County Commission

Msg. John Rawls, the command pilot of the Marion County Sheriff ’s Office Aviation Unit, talks about a Bell Model 407 helicopter in the Marion County Sheriff ’s Office Aviation Unit hangar at Ocala International Airport in Ocala, Fla. on Wednesday, July 8, 2020. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2020.

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Woods conceded the $3.8 million purchase of a replacement aircraft in 2023. He did so to help the County Commission address a projected $4.8 million shortfall in revenue over the five-year life of the renewed tax. Woods also told the board he would revisit some of the details for his requests for the hangar and the security fencing to try to save the other $1 million. Yet the sheriff did ask that the helicopter land at the top of the priority list if extra revenue becomes available. None of the commissioners objected. Meanwhile, the board reached out to the Ocala/Marion County Chamber and Economic Partnership to help sell the tax renewal to the voters.

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JULY 13 - JULY 19, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE

Thousands of Marion residents and businesses could see higher fuel bills By Bill Thompson Deputy Editor

eoples Gas, the Tampa-based natural gas provider that serves about 44,000 customers throughout Marion County, is eyeing higher rates. The typical residential customer’s monthly bill, if the petition is approved as filed, would increase by $5, according to utility spokeswoman Sylvia Vega. For business customers, the anticipated increase would run an extra $36 per month. The increase, if granted by the Florida Public Service Commission, would not be felt until early next year. In its PSC filing, Peoples Gas notes that this is the first base-rate increase the company has sought since 2009. The company noted in documents that it is “well aware” of the financial hardships caused by the coronavirus. But “compelling reasons” exist for the rate boost, Peoples Gas maintains. One is construction costs. Since 2009 the cost of laying plastic pipes has jumped between 34 percent and 76 percent depending of the size of the pipe and how it is installed. For steel

pipes, costs have spiked by 90 percent. The utility pointed out that is spending $136 million on pipeline projects in Panama City, Jacksonville and southwest Florida. Additionally, it will dole out another $21 million for a liquified natural gas depot in Miami. That is expected to come online in 18 months or so. Besides labor and materials, the utility also faces higher employee healthcare costs and other expenses “driven by an aging workforce.” The company also believes its due a rate increase because of steps that have improved performance in everything from detecting leaks and conducting inspections to billing customers. Moreover, the utility has more customers to serve. Peoples Gas noted that in the decade since its last rate increase, its customer base has grown from 325,000 to more than 400,000, or up by 23 percent. “Peoples’ present base rate and charges, as previously approved by this Commission, are inadequate and insufficient to allow the Company to realize fair and reasonable compensation for the services it provides to the public,” the utility argued to

the PSC. “Present economic conditions make it imperative that the Company’s authorized rate of return be increased.” The price of natural gas has plunged by about half since Peoples Gas last raised rates. Yet, as the utility notes, falling prices and the opinion that natural gas is a more environmentally friendly fuel source have driven up demand. The company further bolsters its argument by noting in documents it has set aside $1 million to help customers pay their bills and to fund charities helping those who are fighting the virus. Peoples Gas also notes it has been lenient with customers who have become delinquent. Vega, the utility’s spokeswoman, added in an email, “This is Peoples Gas’ first request for a base rate increase in 12 years, and will enable the company to continue to deliver safe, resilient, clean natural gas throughout Florida.” “We are proud to be able to say that our rates have declined during the past 12 years. In 2019, Peoples Gas reduced its rates by passing benefits created by the federal Tax Cuts and Jobs Act to customers.”

County weighs how to distribute millions in coronavirus relief aid By Bill Thompson Deputy Editor

arion County has received $15.9 million in federal funding to offset the economic devastation caused by COVID-19. The funding, available under the CARES Act, is a quarter of the $63.9 million the county has been allotted. Now, the issue is how to divvy it up. Assistant County Administrator Jeannie Rickman told the County Commission last week that a few potential recipients have come forward. Sheriff Billy Woods seeks $1 million to help pay for costs related to “unforeseen expenses” at the county jail tied to Covid-19. According to Sheriff ’s Office spokesman Sgt. Paul Bloom, 44 inmates and 12 jail staff have tested positive as of last Tuesday. Woods, in an email to the

county, noted that the combination of opening isolation pods to create space for infected inmates and quarantining staff is straining his overtime budget. The sheriff noted by law he is responsible for expenditures that exceed the budget approved by the County Commission. If that happens, he indicated he would seek the board’s approval for more money. Yet the CARES Act may help prevent that. “This additional expenditure for this fiscal year is directly related to the Covid-19 and will be used solely for these expenditures,” Woods wrote. “If there is any unused portion of the requested $1,000,000 we would ask for the year end monies to be returned so that it could be used to offset the predicted costs going into the new fiscal year.” The board did not object. Additionally, the cities of Belleview and Dunnellon

also seek CARES money. Belleview wants $125,000, while Dunnellon seeks $24,266. The reasons behind the requests were not specified. But payments must cover “necessary” coronavirus-related costs that were not in the agency’s formal budget as of March 27, and were incurred between March 1 and Dec. 30. In an email Wednesday, Rickman said staff is developing a method for other eligible agencies, community groups and businesses to request funding. The County Commission also is considering other uses for CARES funding. For example, Commissioner Michelle Stone on Tuesday suggested using the money to purchase rapid-testing machines for the coronavirus that can turn around results in hours instead of days. Those could be utilized for hospital staff, long-term care facility workers and first-responders.

Or, she added, using the money to secure housing for people who have tested positive, if necessary. “Let’s get super serious about isolating and getting rapid testing done and getting people out of circulation,” Stone said. The board also weighed whether to cover bills for water utility customers. Environmental Services Director Jody Kirkman said the delinquency rate has climbed from 4.9 percent to 5.8 percent – or 1,982 total customers -- since coronavirus spread throughout Marion County. Those customers are primarily in Marion Oaks, Stonecrest, Oak Run and Silver Springs Shores. Kirkman said delinquent customers owe $247.50 on average. It’s unclear how many of those customers are in arrears directly because of COVID-19. County Administrator Mounir Bouyounes said the test for eligibility is demon-

strating that a customer did in fact suffer an economic hardship related to COVID-19 – otherwise, the county must return anything that is not spent. To qualify, customers must certify they couldn’t pay their bill because of the virus. “The biggest point is that we wouldn’t be offering this assistance to make us whole,” commission Chairwoman Kathy Bryant noted. “We would be offering this assistance because it needs to be offered to the community.” “It’s all about helping the people,” Stone concurred. The county is considering partnering with a third party to vet the applications to ensure they are pandemic-related. For those who would not qualify for the relief program, the county will encourage them to sign up for the utility’s payment plan by Aug. 16, or risk having their water service cut off.

JULY 13 - JULY 19, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE

Reilly Arts Center taking over operation of the historic Marion Theater Staff Report The Reilly Arts Center is bringing film, live performances, music, art and more to the historic Marion Theatre starting next month. On Tuesday, the Ocala City Council approved a oneyear lease for the Reilly Arts Center, LLC to operate the Marion Theatre for mixeduse programming. The Reilly’s programming plan includes showing a diverse array of film genres, including classic, independent and foreign films, award-winning documentaries, educational programs, and recently released Hollywood features. Several series are also being planned, including a summer series for kids, and a “Silver Screenings” series that will showcase matinee viewings of classic black-andwhite films. Beyond film, the calendar will include small musical performances with regional rock, jazz, blues and classical artists, small theatre ensemble performances, comedy shows, lecture, and special event rentals. The Reilly hopes diverse programming of this kind will build potential for the creation of unique downtown cultural experiences

centered around film, art and music. More details and a full calendar of events will be announced in the coming weeks. “We are looking forward to being a part of the downtown landscape and working with restaurant and retail partners in a creative way,” said Pamela Calero Wardell, executive director of the Reilly Arts Center. “We see this as both a great responsibility and an awesome privilege to manage and program one of Ocala’s most iconic landmarks. There’s a lot of work to be done, and we are ready to do that work for our community.” The Marion Theatre will re-open operating under CDC guidelines and require social distancing as well as the use of masks/face coverings. The Reilly Arts Center also announced on June 20 that they will soon begin construction of their $4 million expansion project and expect that work to last approximately nine months. The Reilly’s management of the Marion Theatre will allow Reilly staff to continue bringing arts and live entertainment experiences to Ocala even while construction on the new expansion is underway. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2020.

JULY 13 - JULY 19, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE

Discovery Center Summer Camp

The theme of this weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s camp is Energy and the campers also got to go outside and have fun playing with water. The summer camps at the Discovery Center will continue for 4 more weeks, with different themes every week.

Molly Spencer, 8, right, shoots other campers with water from a water gun as her brother, Patrick, 9, left, watches as they cool off with other campers during Water Play time at the City of Ocala Discovery Center summer camp in Ocala, Fla. on Tuesday, July 7, 2020. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2020.

Patrick Spencer, 9, left, gets sprayed with water by Kyron Daniels, 8, right, as they cool off with other campers during Water Play time at the City of Ocala Discovery Center summer camp in Ocala, Fla. on Tuesday, July 7, 2020. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2020.

Lily Phillips, 9, has her hair spike out as she experiments with the static electricity coming from a Van de Graaff generator while Malcolm Harris, the exhibit coordinator, right, talks to other campers during Energy camp at the City of Ocala Discovery Center summer camp in Ocala, Fla. on Tuesday, July 7, 2020. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2020.

After emptying the water from a bucket, Kyron Daniels, 8, decided to try it on as he cools off with other campers during Water Play time at the City of Ocala Discovery Center summer camp in Ocala, Fla. on Tuesday, July 7, 2020. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2020.

Dennis Rotella, 11, goes down the slip nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; slide as he cools off with other campers during Water Play time at the City of Ocala Discovery Center summer camp in Ocala, Fla. on Tuesday, July 7, 2020. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2020.

JULY 13 - JULY 19, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE

Drive-thru Food Giveaway at Interfaith Interfaith is holding their drive-thru food giveaway for people who need it the most Tuesdays through Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. every week. On Tuesday, they filled 129 cars with food for 529 people.

Volunteers load food into cars during the drive-thru food giveaway at Interfaith Emergency Services on Northwest 2nd Street in Ocala, Fla. on Wednesday, July 8, 2020. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2020.

Steve Clem, the food distribution manager, gets food ready for people in the freezer for the drive-thru food giveaway at Interfaith Emergency Services on Northwest 2nd Street in Ocala, Fla. on Wednesday, July 8, 2020. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2020.

Richard Pratt, the assistant manager, drives a forklift with food for people during the drive-thru food giveaway at Interfaith Emergency Services on Northwest 2nd Street in Ocala, Fla. on Wednesday, July 8, 2020. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2020.

WORD FIND

This is a theme puzzle with the subject stated below. Find the listed words in the grid. (They may 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 17 letters left over. They spell out the alternative theme of the puzzle.

JULY 13 - JULY 19, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE

Island holidays

Solution: 17 Letters

Angaur Bikini Buka Canoe Clipperton Cook Corfu Daru Drinks Elcho Euba Guam Heron Kadavu

Karkar Kiwai Loyalty Luxury Majuro Manus Maré Mauke Merir Misima Moala Moorea Natural gas New Ireland

Pitt Pool Raoul Rossel Rotuma Society Southwest Tetiaroa Tobi Tropical Tubuai Tupai Ua Pou Vacation

Solution: Life at a slower pace

Creators Syndicate

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Cabinet of Curiosities Carmichael & Son Whiskey Jug

Date: 7/13/20

eorge Carmichael and his son Columbus Ed (known as C. Ed) were successful whiskey distillers in Ocala during the late 1800s. Although alcohol was illegal in many Florida counties, a loophole in interstate commerce laws allowed for the shipment of spirits to these areas. The Carmichaels moved their product by rail and made a fortune. When changes in liquor laws threatened their business in 1890, the younger Carmichael purchased land around Silver Springs and developed a rail and steamboat freight depot. He soon

realized the real money was in tourism and built a bathhouse and pavilion for visitors. The decision proved to be a wise one. Just as whiskey was outlawed locally in 1915, tourism was booming at Silver Springs. In 1924, Carmichael leased Silver Springs to Carl Ray and “Shorty” Davidson, who developed the area into one of the most visited tourist attractions in the country (SRM1992-19-02). Photo and text provided by Scott Mitchell, director of the Silver River Museum

JULY 13 - JULY 19, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE

CF offers virtual open house July 29

he College of Central Florida invites recent high school seniors and those looking to advance their career to a virtual open house on Wednesday, July 29. This drop-in event is from 10 a.m.-noon and 2-5 p.m. online and will give participants an opportunity to speak one on one with CF staff from Admissions, Financial Aid, the Health Sciences program and more. Future students are encouraged to register and receive assistance with the application process, financial aid, placement testing and academic advising. Newly admitted students are encouraged to attend and get assistance with registration for fall classes that begin Aug. 17. To apply for financial aid during the event, please have the following documents available: Federal Student Aid ID available at pin.ed.gov; email address; 2018 W-2 and Federal Income Tax Forms (1040,

1040A or 1040 EZ) of you and/or your parents (if you are a dependent student); 2018 untaxed income (Social Security, disability, workman’s compensation, etc.); driver’s license or state ID; Social Security card; spouse or parent’s Social Security number and date of birth. For Florida residency verification, please have a copy of your Florida driver’s license and a copy of your Florida vehicle registration or voter’s registration. A separate Business and Technology virtual open house session will be offered Wednesday, July 15, from 2-5 p.m. for CF’s Business and Technology programs and the degree and certificate programs that lead to a high-demand career.

For more information, visit www.CF.edu/ openhouse or call 352-854-2322, ext. 1379.

Marion County Junior Golf parts ways with The First Tee

arion County Junior Golf, formerly known as The First Tee of Greater Ocala, announced it is no longer doing business as The First Tee of Greater Ocala. The organization’s board decided unanimously to part ways with The First Tee organization effective immediately. Ultimately, moving away from The First Tee organization will have no visible impact on MCJG’s efforts. MCJG remains a non-profit, 501(c)3 organization; Junior golfers have access to certified trainers and quality training materials and exercises; summer golf camps are offered at a low price, with tuition discounts available to those who need it; and, students are taught core values and healthy habits to carry with them throughout their lives. “The decision to forego our charter membership status with The First Tee’s national organization enables Marion County Junior Golf ’s fund-raising and scholarship efforts to solely benefit members of the Marion County communities,” said Ire Bethea, board chairman of Marion County Junior Golf, Inc. (MCJG). “By eliminating the oper-

ating costs of The First Tee affiliation, MCJG has the opportunity to redistribute funds and efforts to benefit more Marion County youths than ever before.” Marion County Junior Golf, Inc. was established in March 2011, receiving its charter as The First Tee of Greater Ocala April 4, 2012. It operates out of an office at Ocala Golf Club, located at 3130 E. Silver Springs Blvd., in Ocala. MCJG’s goal remains to work with 100 percent of Marion County’s K-5 schools, Boys and Girls Clubs, youth organizations and special interest groups. MCJG operations depend solely on donations from businesses and individuals in Marion County. Since its inception, MCJG has worked with 23 K-5 Marion County schools, bringing its programming to more than 100,000 Marion County youth. MCJG’s Board of Directors include: Ire Bethea (chairman), Jason Lenhart (secretary/treasurer), Chuck Rhoades, Mike Griggs, Tom Males, Winn Keaton, T.J. Jarvis, Troy Thurston, Greg Wise (acting executive director), Kimber Corbitt and Thomas Lowe.

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JULY 13 - JULY 19, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE

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Oh, we’ll be back Ocala!

By Larry Bush Guest Columnist

here are few absolutes left in this crazy ol’ world. But there are a few. 1. The sun comes up in the east. 2. The sun sets in the west. 3. Ocala bounces back.

Ever since former City Manager John Zobler led the way with a renewed focus on redevelopment in downtown Ocala, downtown has flourished. It really wasn’t that long ago when O’Malley’s Alley and Harry’s were about the only two reasons to go downtown – one for a good meal and the other to watch customers volunteer to beat

On schools, Florida not following its own advice By Cheryl Lindstrom Guest Columnist

am a classroom teacher. I have a lot of questions and concerns for opening our schools. Not in any particular order: • Leave the classroom door open to avoid touching it too much? Yet, t needs to be closed and locked per ALICE. • Social distancing. But how for fire drills? Code red or yellow? Active shooter drills? • A student gets the virus? Now what? Teacher quarantined for 14 days? Does this require sick leave? Personal leave? Paid or unpaid? What about the other students in the class? Other students in later classes? Six teachers, six classes of 20-plus = 126 exposed. • There are 1,400-plus students served by my school. • If I catch the virus, are my medical costs and lost wages covered by workman’s comp? • Are we checking temperatures? Wearing masks? The governor and surgeon general reminded Floridians on the 4th of July to protect the

the heck out of each other in a boxing ring. So much has changed, and contrary to popular belief, change is, indeed, good. And inevitable. Today everyone can enjoy a selection of restaurants, themed bars, a great array of shopping, two breweries and so much more on the way. Local businesses are relocating headquarters to downtown, which means a more robust lunch crowd, people meeting their friends after work for a drink and maybe dinner. Add the new Hilton Garden Inn and businesses become sustainable. The hotel will host area conferences, which will continually bring visitors to downtown, looking to find a restaurant, live entertainment and partake in retail therapy after a day of sitting through a butt-numbing conference. The hotel will also become a site for area

vulnerable by avoiding the Three C’s: closed spaces, crowded places, close contact. This describes my middle school classroom. They warned Floridians to continue best practices of social distancing, stay home with symptoms, clean and disinfect surfaces, wash your hands. Social distancing at 6 feet in our schools? We grapple with trying to get students 3 feet apart for testing Stay home with symptoms? Parents send sick children to school all the time. Clean and disinfect surfaces? With what? And by whom? This will need to happen after every single class period. In salons, a 15-minute gap between clients is required for disinfecting. At my school, there are 4 minutes between classes. Wash your hands? Good idea. But in my hallway there are two bathrooms with a total of four sinks and two hand dryers and approximately 250 students per building. Consider your faculty and staff. We have risen to the occasion and, in an instant, became virtual/ online instructors. We practiced our craft with fidelity and worked diligently to provide a quality learning experience for our students. We worked well beyond our contract hours. We deserve and have earned respect, to be valued for our contribution, to be considered when this decision is made as we are the vulnerable ones -- being asked again to give and do more than any other group, to risk our very lives. I miss my students. I miss my colleagues. I miss

company meetings and – I believe – a place local residents will call their own for downtown events. Word on the street is there were several conferences and meetings scheduled at the hotel but were postponed due to pandemic concerns. And please don’t neglect the impact The Reilly Arts Center has had – and will continue to have – on the success of downtown. The breadth and depth of the events put on at The Reilly can stack up against any city in the country. The quality of concerts is exciting and amazing. And your hearing that from a guy who bought tickets to “Miss Saigon” at the Hippodrome Theater, drove to Gainesville, went to dinner with friends ahead of time and then fell asleep during the helicopter scene. Of course, there are challenges. There are always challenges. Getting folks on foot across Silver Springs Boulevard is the major one. There is a plan in place to slow the vehicles on the Boulevard by using flashing yellow signs well before entering downtown. I’ve seen that work in other cities such as Dunedin and New Smyrna Beach. And, although I haven’t experienced it, there are still grumblings about the lack of downtown parking. With the exception of those who require special parking places, as my Dad used to say, “Walking ain’t crowded.” Park somewhere and enjoy the walk. You just might find a new store, maybe run into someone you haven’t seen in a while and there’s always the nice walk back to the vehicle when you’re done. Just like a real downtown. Larry Bush has lived in Marion County since 1985. He is a marketing specialist who has been involved in downtown projects over the years.

my classroom. But I want to live. Do I need to just quit? Is that what happens to the vulnerable ones of us? We’re just dismissed because we don’t want to take the risk? After the years of dedicated service to our schools, our students and our communities? I have read the executive order issued by Commissioner Corcoran requiring schools open in August, five days each week. And I have read the OSHA Act of 1970 general duty clause, specifically 5(a)(1): (a) Each employer shall furnish to each of his employees employment and a place of employment which are free from recognized hazards that are causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm to his employees. Marion County COVID-19 numbers are rising. Florida’s COVID-19 numbers are staggering. Florida is not following its own advice. I am asking you to implement a delayed start or at the very least, stagger the attendance, half the school for two days each, with a day for deep cleaning. Your decision will resound for generations Please make the right one for our teachers and our children.

Cheryl Lindstrom is a veteran civics teacher at Belleview Middle School.

JULY 13 - JULY 19, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE

Re-opening plan does not protect at-risk teachers By Robin Koper Guest Columnist I have taught in Marion County for the past 20 years. I am a 2014 Golden Apple recipient. I am passionate about teaching and miss my students. Last year, I was diagnosed with a brain tumor and underwent brain surgery at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville. During the time of my diagnosis, I developed a seizure disorder. Medication has enabled me to control my seizures, and at this time I am neurologically stable and doing well. Contracting COVID-19 could change all of that. My doctor says that I have a distinct neurological vulnerability to COVID-19, which could lead to serious hospitalization. I am speaking on behalf of every highrisk teacher in Marion County. We have devoted our lives to our students. Now we ask that you protect our lives. As I look amongst you, I see our board members and superintendent social distancing – we ask that you please give your students and teachers the same protection to socially distance. How can this be accomplished in an average-size classroom of 20 or more students? Many of us are afraid. We are stressed and wonder how we will teach our students effectively, with the daily panic of dodging COVID-19. Teachers never imagined a time that they would be forced to choose between their lives or their jobs. Some of us fear we will lose everything if we leave our jobs. But leave we will, if forced to save our own health. We ask that you, our leaders, advocate for your high-risk teachers, and ALL Marion County teachers and staff. We are trusting that you will make decisions not based on pressure or politics, but on the health and well-being of our community. This too shall pass, but human lives cannot be replaced. Robin Koper is a Marion County Middle School teacher.

Coping with a COVID-19 outbreak in the jail By Sheriff Billy Woods Guest Columnist

am writing this letter to confront the rumors, misinformation, keyboard warriors and lies concerning the pandemic and the Marion County Jail. At the Marion County Jail, as of last week, we housed 1,458 inmates. We house approximately 160 inmates in A-Pod, which is the maximumsecurity wing of our jail and home to the most dangerous and violent offenders. Earlier this month, we had the entire inmate population of A-Pod tested for COVID-19. Initially, eight of the inmates had exhibited mild symptoms and were moved to an isolation setting. They were found to be positive for COVID-19; they have been receiving supportive care and all eight have been showing improvement. After that, we tested the remaining 157 inmates in A-Pod, with the exception of six inmates who refused to be tested. Of those, 44 were found to be positive for COVID-19. The entire population of A-Pod has been quarantined and they are being seen regularly by medical staff. As of last week, we had 12 members of our jail staff test positive for COVID-19. They have all been sent home. These jail staff members have been coming to work for months to guard our inmate population. In carrying out their duties, some have been exposed to COVID-19. We continue to take steps to mitigate against the risk of COVID-19 at the jail. We screen all people, including inmates,

The Marion County Jail is shown in Ocala, FL. on Monday, July 6, 2020. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2020.

prior to them entering the jail. Every inmate undergoes a physical examination and questionnaire. If an inmate presents with symptoms or discloses information, such as travel history, that places them at risk, they are immediately transported to the infirmary and placed on respiratory precautions in a negative pressure isolation cell until they are evaluated by a clinician (physician/ARNP). The clinician will evaluate the person’s symptoms and history to determine whether to administer a COVID-19 test. The inmates remain in respiratory isolation until cleared by a clinician. Apart from staff and inmates, we only allow entry into the jail to persons who have a need to enter the jail. Attorneys and the families of inmates can visit with inmates remotely through video-based technology. Anybody who needs to enter the jail undergoes a screening prior to entry, including our staff. Persons exhibiting symptoms or who do not otherwise meet admissions criteria are denied entry. Our jail medical provider, Heart of Florida Health Center, oversees the care of the inmates. We provide masks to all inmates traveling outside of their pods, all COVID-positive and COVID-suspected inmates, and all detention deputies and detention assistants. We are continuing to manufacture masks in the jail to be distributed more widely among our inmate population. Some inmates have made claims that they are being housed in substandard conditions. Some have claimed

they are without access to drinkable water. This is a lie. All inmates have access to an unlimited supply of drinkable water in their cells and cups from which to drink. Inmates have claimed they have no access to cleaning supplies. Cleaning supplies are provided to every pod in our jail so that inmates can clean their cells. Some inmates have also complained they were not given outside recreation time. This was done to ensure that healthy inmates did not mingle with potentially sick inmates. Now that we have isolated COVIDpositive or COVID-suspected inmates, outside recreation time has resumed. Some people have suggested that I need to empty out the jail. As your sheriff, this is something I would never do and that I would never support. If you think COVID-19 has wreaked havoc in this community, that would be nothing compared to what would happen if we opened up the doors of the jail and let those 1,500 or so people out into our community. The people who are in jail are all in jail for a reason. Everyone’s reason is unique, but what they all have in common is that there is a court order of some kind requiring them to be there – to serve a sentence, to be held until bond is posted, to be held without bail until trial, or to be held until unpaid childsupport is paid. Ultimately, it is those lawful orders of the court that hold those people in custody.

Billy Woods is sheriff of Marion County.

JULY 13 - JULY 19, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE

Community think tank will seek answers to problem of violence and young people By Bill Thompson Deputy Editor

his week brings a renewed effort to better understand how violence affects local children, as potential victims and perpetrators, and how to protect them. On Thursday, the Public Policy Institute of Marion County, or PPI, will launch a twoyear study that focuses on children from Pre-K ages to middle school, as well as their parents, to determine that services could benefit these families and encourage them to become productive citizens. The PPI board appointed Dr. Dama Abshier of Ocala to lead the study. According to PPI representatives, Abshier has spent 18 years with Marion County Public Schools in analyzing and implementing efforts related to student behavioral analysis, alternative learning, and improving parental involvement.

She also has served as an educational consultant with the University of South Florida, which runs the Florida Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports program, designed to help school districts improve student behavior. “Marion County is extremely fortunate to have Dr. Abshier as the leader of this study because of her background and experience working in the educational milieu,” John Dozier, vice chairman of the PPI’s board of directors, said in a statement. The kickoff session is scheduled 8:30–10 a.m. and will be conducted online via Zoom. At the outset, PPI said in a press release, the research will promote discussions among community leaders, local educators, child-andfamily service providers, and interested members of the public about the “escalating violence in the community, how that affects the development of Marion County’s children, and potential strategies for abating violence among our youth. The PPI board, led by Dr. Jerone Gamble, seeks to learn if coordinated services -- ranging

from health and well-being and relationship management to tutoring and parenting classes -- can “create a support system for children that allows them to become productive citizens in the future.” PPI has conducted 14 similar, communityoriented studies since 2000. The very first one looked at violence in county schools. It found that the majority of students in Marion County schools were doing well and felt safe in their schools. But when problems emerged the situation of increased violence among young people was influenced by domestic violence, child abuse, a lack of parental attention, involvement and parenting skills, violent messages in the media and fatherless homes. For this time, Ocala police Chief Greg Graham and Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods are co-sponsoring the study. PPI also welcomes additional co-sponsors and contributions from the local business community, civic organizations, and Marion County residents. Those interested in contributing should send donations to PPI at 3001 S.W. College Rd. in Ocala, 34474. Those who may be interested in serving on the PPI study team or any of its subcommittees can contact Abshier at Dama4PPI@gmail.com. For additional information about the study or PPI, contact Dr. Gamble at (352) 454-5720.

New state budget now active By Bill Thompson Deputy Editor

he new state budget kicked in July 1, sending nearly $82 million for projects and programs specific to Ocala/Marion County. Some of the bigger-dollar items for fiscal year 2020-21 include: • $25 million for the College of Central Florida’s operating budget • $17 million for early learning services, including school readiness and voluntary Pre-K programs • $18.2 million for a road-resurfacing project • $7 million for right-of-way acquisition along U.S. 441 in Ocala as well as at opposite ends of State Road 40 and County Road 484 from Southwest 20th Avenue to CR 475A • $4 million for Marion County Public Schools’ workforce readiness programs Here are some of the details. The Florida Department of Transportation in May 2021 plans to begin resurfacing CR 25A (West Anthony Road) on Ocala’s north side to the U.S. 441- 301 split, which spans 8.8 miles. The project costs $18.2 million. Some rights of way the FDOT plans to buy are part of a plan to widen and rebuild SR 40 from the end of the four-lane section in Silver Springs to a point east of CR 314, a stretch of about 5.3 miles.

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According to the agency, the new road eventually will feature a pair of 12-foot-wide lanes in each direction separated by a 40-foot-wide grass median. A 12-foot-wide multiuse trail will run along the north side of the road from Northeast 60th Court to Ray Wayside Park near the Ocklawaha River Bridge. The 2021 projects are the prelude to replacing the bridge -- a $102.8 million effort that will use two bridges with lower profiles. Two local projects failed to cross the finish line, courtesy of Gov. Ron DeSantis’s veto pen. The governor axed $1 million the city of Ocala sought to extend Southwest 44th Avenue from State Road 200 to a point just south of U.S. 27. Sen. Keith Perry, R-Gainesville, originally requested $3 million for the project. According to Senate records, the project involved a four-lane connector with sidewalks and bike lanes to link SR 200, SR 40, and U.S. 27. Perry wrote that the project would improve traffic in the area by establishing a parallel corridor for the west side of Interstate 75. “Although a veto was not the outcome we were hoping for in this situation, the city still plans on moving forward with the SW 44th Avenue extension project,” city spokeswoman Ashley Dobbs said. “If the million dollars in funding had been approved, it would have offset project costs associated with creating the two-lane road, and alleviating traffic conditions on State Road

200. This project is still part of the long-range transportation plan, and we will continue to seek additional grant opportunities.” The other project, requested by Sen. Dennis Baxley, R-Lady Lake, entailed renovating the Belleview Community Center for a program by Hands of Mercy Everywhere, or HOME, a Belleview nonprofit devoted to helping teenaged mothers and at-risk girls. Senate documents indicate the funding would help create a “hands-on” job training program for people 16 to 24. That instruction would run for three months and be designed to prepare students to work in the hospitality industry. The concept was to revamp the community center into a hotel-style banquet room and kitchen. The renovation would include new central heating and air conditioning, refinished wood floors, two upgraded bathrooms, new space for offices and storage, exterior handicap ramps and decking and extra parking. Baxley initially sought $951,000 for the project, records show. The final amount cut by DeSantis was $200,000. In response, Diane Schofield, HOME’s founder and CEO, said, “We will do what we always do: Wait for God’s timing.” “Having that building is a blessing. Knowing it will take $200,000 to restore it, bring it to code, buy curriculum material, get it furnished, redo the kitchen area is overwhelming.”

Answers for page 18

JULY 13 - JULY 19, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE

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AHO-429 Ocala Gazette 10x15.5.indd 1

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