A6
Proposal for use of railroad threatens goal to turn corridor into trail
County Commission will vote on manufacturer’s application at next meeting.
By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com
Two futures for the railroad that runs through Ocala stand before it—one that would increase disruptive
train traffic on the worn-out railway, and the other that would pave a way for the railroad to be turned into a community trail.
Community revitalization advocates have long dreamed of turning the Florida
Northern Railroad that runs through downtown Ocala into a multiuse trail that could not only connect the community with each other, but with nature. Now, a manufacturer is applying to use the railway to transport plastic parts and
run trains with over seven times as many cars through neighborhoods in the heart of Ocala.
On Sept. 16, the Marion County Commission will vote on whether to approve an application from Advanced Drainage Systems to manufacture plastic pipe and product at the Certified Grocer site located at 6026 SE 83rd St. This manufacturer would utilize the railroad, which runs through downtown Ocala, through residential southeast Ocala neighborhoods, behind Forest High School, residential neighborhoods in Silver Springs Shores and ends at Lake Weir High School.
The train currently runs four to five cars, but ADS anticipates that it could run up to 48 rail cars, based on current market forecast and rail availability. Increased rail traffic could lead to additional noise and traffic disruptions. For the past several years, several local and state stakeholders in community revitalization and transportation have drafted plans to turn this same railway into a nearly 14-milelong multiuse trail that would connect Ocala to the Heart of Florida Trail Corridor that spans through much of central Florida.
See Rail-to-trail, page A8
Housing the helpers
The ITEC program based at the Marion County Airport, which trains professionals to educate indigenous people around the world, offers a unique housing advantage for staffers.
By Marian Rizzo Correspondent
After enduring seven bouts with malaria and growing weary of Africa’s stifling 120-degree temperatures, Jonathan Edwards, in February of 2022, left his position at a mission hospital in Togo, Africa, and signed on as the director of information technology with the Indigenous People’s Technology and Education Center at the Marion County Airport near Dunnellon.
“It’s a real blessing in that I’m not catching malaria anymore,” Edwards said. “The environment is far less stressful too. ITEC gives me the opportunity to serve God by meeting the needs of indigenous people, even though I’m not able to travel and work overseas.”
The move to this area also had another blessing for Edwards, his wife Bethany and their children, Caleb and Selah. Because ITEC provides free housing for its staff, the See A place, page A2
It’s time to Give4Marion
The Community Foundation for Ocala/ Marion County’s event on Sept. 17 and 18 will raise money for local nonprofits.
By Chris D’Avanzo chris@magnoliamediaco.com
The Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County’s Give4Marion annual giving event has raised more than $3 million for Marion County’s nonprofit organizations. This year’s Give4Marion, the fifth annual event, will take place from 10 a.m. Tuesday, Sept 17, to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept 18.
Give4Marion started as a 24-hour, online fundraiser to help nonprofits recoup some of their lost revenue resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, Give4Marion has grown into much more, raising funds and bringing awareness to nonprofits, helping connect them to new donors and volunteers, and strengthening their relationship with the community.
Donors can give as little as $10 in a single location, give4marion.org, where each participating nonprofit can receive donations. Nonprofits also may create their own webpage, often asking donors for amounts such as “$50 to buy a pair of work shoes for homeless veterans” or “$75 to administer a child’s therapy program.” These descriptions help donors understand where their money is going and, more importantly, how their support will make a difference. The nonprofit receives 100% of the donation.
Throughout the day, bonuses are awarded to nonprofits in the form of Power Hour prizes and there also are several Matching Moments, special short bursts of activity where donations are matched dollarfor-dollar by a single donor, sometimes at even double and triple the amount.
Give4Marion will culminate in a celebration party the evening of the 18th for nonprofits and guests, during which the final totals will be tallied up and the last of the prizes will be awarded. The donation portal will remain open for 48 hours after the event ends.
To learn more, go to give4marion.org
Subscribers will receive their paper through USPS on the USPS schedule. Subscription orders must be received by 5 pm on Tuesday in order to be included in the following week’s delivery. Starting at $10/month ocalagazette.com/subscribe
Steve Saint points himself out as a little boy in a “Life” magazine photo with the widows of five missionaries killed by the Waodani tribe, which included his father, Nate, in Ecuador in January 1956, in part of a historical display at the Indigenous People’s Technology and Education Center (ITEC) at the Marion County Airport on Sept. 4, 2024. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2024.
Advanced Drainage Systems has applied for a special use permit to manufacture plastic pipe and product at the Certified Grocer site located at 6026 SE 83rd St. and utilize the Florida Northern Railroad that runs through downtown Ocala. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2024.
File photo: Lauren Deiorio, the President and Executive Director of the Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County, right, and Ashley Gerds, the Director of Strategic Engagement for the Community Foundation, left, celebrate raising over $1.3 million during the celebration for Give4Marion at the Reilly Arts Center in Ocala on Wednesday, Sept. 20, 2023. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2023.
A place to call home
Continued from page A1
family is living in a three-bedroom, two-bath home without having to buy it or pay rent.
“Here in the United States, I think that’s pretty unheard of, especially with the housing market and the way the interest rates are going,” Edwards said. “Having a free place to live makes it possible for me to continue serving God in this way.”
ITEC started in 1999 under the direction of Steve Saint, a Marion County entrepreneur, author, and frontier tribal philanthropist. Saint, whose father, Nate Saint, in 1956, was speared to death in Ecuador along with four other missionaries, got the idea for ITEC when the very tribal people who had killed his father invited him to come and live in their tribe. He had already lived with them for short periods between the ages of 8 and 18.
“Mincaye, one of the men who killed my father and later ‘adopted’ me, planted the seed for ITEC’s ministry,” Saint said. “Mincaye told me, ‘When you were a boy, we had to teach you how to hunt with a blow gun and spear, and how to climb a tree with a climbing vine. Foreigners come here and do the tooth thing and the eye thing and the medicine thing for a day and another day and leave. We say, by you teaching us to do those things, we can take care of our own people.’”
Mincaye’s words reminded Saint of a popular saying attributed to Jewish philosopher Maimonides: “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.”
“So, I started ITEC,” Saint said. Saint decided to train professional staffers, such as doctors, dentists, nurses, engineers, agricultural experts and pilots, and send them into frontier areas to teach indigenous people how to do things for themselves. He put out a call for
helpers and got responses from folks like Jonathan Edwards. There was only one problem, said Saint.
“We had people who wanted to come here but there was no housing for them,” he said. “Home prices kept going up and there was nothing to rent or buy. Then there was a crash in the housing market and suddenly we had the opportunity to buy houses. My wife, Ginny, and I had funds from the sale of a limerock mining business. We started buying and rehabbing houses, and ITEC started to grow.”
In addition to buying homes that needed substantial repairs, Saint also started buying lots and building new houses. He and volunteers are currently finishing the latest home, bringing the total to 14 housing units. The homes are owned by a Saint family charitable trust, titled Matthew 28:18-20, in honor of Jesus’ mandate to go out and teach all nations, making them disciples who teach others. It is a 501(c)(3) organization, is tax exempt and no one takes a salary.
“We’re a Christian ministry,” Saint explained. “One of the objectives of this organization is to help Christ followers in frontier areas meet the felt needs of their own people. When Jesus came, the reason the multitudes followed him wasn’t because of his teaching. It was because he fed the hungry and healed the lame, the blind, and the sick. That’s why people followed him. And when they followed him, he taught them his gospel.”
Despite suffering a spinal cord injury 12 years ago while designing a new wing for ITEC’s Maverick flying car, Saint has continued to be involved in the work of ITEC. Also involved are two of his sons, Jaime, ITEC’s executive director, who speaks in churches and conferences all over the world; and Jesse, who helped his father start ITEC and developed the optometry and
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aviation programs.
“We’re really in the trainer training business,” said Saint. “Our staff is teaching indigenous people to meet their own people’s needs and training them to teach other indigenous people to do the same. Ours is a multiplication strategy, and it works. Our staff members go to remote areas all over the world where there are no doctors, no dentists, and no optometrists, and where there are no hotels, no restaurants, and no professional services. They’re frequently traveling beyond roads, which means they have to walk or go by canoe or bush plane. They sleep in huts, on the ground, and in hammocks.”
Such is the case with Zach Soles, who moved here four years ago from Idaho with his wife, Faith, and their six children. As ITEC’s mission transportation director, Soles spends a month or two overseas every year. He has been developing unmanned aerial vehicles that can drop medicines and other necessities to people living in remote jungle areas.
“It’s a blessing to be part of a ministry,” Soles said. “It’s definitely a blessing to come back to a house that’s available to us.”
People interested in becoming involved or in supporting ITEC are encouraged to organize a group tour that will include a visit to the hangar that houses the Maverick flying car and the Piper Family Cruiser that Saint flew in the film “End of the Spear” and “Beyond the Gates of Splendor.” Both movies are available on Amazon Prime and YouTube. Saint’s books, “End of the Spear,” “Walking His Trail” and “The Great Omission” are available through ITEC.
For more information, go to itecusa.org or call (352) 465-4545.
“We’re really in the trainer training business.”
Steve Saint
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Steve Saint, right, talks with Zach Soles, the director of engineering and mission transportation, left, about a 2.2 pound unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) at the Indigenous People’s Technology and Education Center (ITEC) at the Marion County Airport in Dunnellon on Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024.
[Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2024.
Left to right: Steve Saint, left, poses for a photo with Jonathan Edwards, the IT Director for ITEC, right, and his family, Sélah, 3, Bethany and Caleb, 5, left to right, at the Edwards home on Southwest 113th Lane in Dunnellon on Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024. Steve Saint talks about a photo of Mincaye, a member of the Waodani tribe, taken in Ecuador in 1996, the same tribe that killed his father, Nate, and four other missionaries in Ecuador in January 1956.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
September 5, 2024
Suicide can be prevented. September marks Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Unfortunately, our region continues to experience an increase in the number of individuals who need support and care. A recent study shows the majority of adults (94%) believe that suicide can be prevented, at least some of the time, and 96% of adults in the U.S. would take action if someone close to them was thinking about suicide.
There is hope. We are listening. As a behavioral healthcare provider here in Ocala, Florida, our team at The Vines Hospital is dedicated to #BeThere in a manner that promotes connectedness. Culturally relevant services, evidence-based treatments and support are available.
It is imperative that we equip our community with hope, resilience and the tools to feel empowered. People needing help can contact:
• 988, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline that provides 24/7 confidential support. Text, chat or call today. Trained crisis counselors are ready to serve.
• The Veterans Crisis Line for U.S. Military Veterans, call 988, press 1.
• Trevor Lifeline, the only national 24/7 lifeline for LGBTQ youth, at 1-866-488-7386.
You can help save a life. #BeThere #SPM24
Sincerely,
Clint Hauger
CEO
Focus Group Participants Wanted
Researchers from Sandia National Laboratories are seeking participants who live within 50 miles of the retired Crystal River Nuclear Plant for a 2.5-hour focus group. You will receive a $75 Visa gift card, and food will be served. The discussion will focus on your general perspectives on nuclear waste (spent nuclear fuel) being hosted at the power plant. No prior knowledge is required. Your county has not been and is not being evaluated as a potential site for a federal spent nuclear fuel storage facility. No government entity is yet soliciting volunteers for hosting spent nuclear fuel. The focus groups will be held in Crystal River on September 23 and 24, 5:30pm8:00pm and on September 25, 12:30pm-3:00pm; and in Lecanto on September 26, 12:30pm-3:00pm and 5:30pm-8:00pm. You must register in advance and be 18 years old to participate. For more information, email communityresearch@sandia.gov or call 505-284-8256.
The Vines Hospital
Clint Hauger [Supplied]
Meetings scheduled to address school zoning changes in SW Marion
By Caroline Brauchler caroline@ocalagazette.com
Students and families in southwest Marion County may be impacted by zoning changes related
to the future opening of two new elementary schools.
Construction began on the two new elementary schools in March, with an anticipated opening in August 2025. The schools, one in Marion Oaks and
the other in Winding Oaks, are identical and will each house up to 860 students.
Marion County Public Schools is holding two community meetings to discuss rezoning information. The first will take
place at 6 p.m. on Sept. 12 in the cafeteria of Sunrise Elementary School, 375 Marion Oaks Course, Ocala. The second will take place at 6 p.m. on Sept. 16 in the cafeteria of Hammett Bowen Jr. Elementary School, 4397 SW 95 St., Ocala.
“MCPS district staff will provide information on attendance boundaries for the new schools, rezoning plans, curriculum programs, transportation options and other details pertinent to both schools opening to address growth in the Southwest Marion County area. Artist renderings of both schools will also be shared,” according to MCPS.
Both meetings will present the same information. Parents and families are invited to attend, ask questions to staff and provide feedback and input.
In addition to districtwide Skylert messaging, families directly impacted by rezoning will also receive additional messaging from their child’s school. For more information about these public meetings, contact the Student Assignment and Records Office at (352) 671-7700.
The schools will each have 43 classrooms. Both schools will have one two-story building made
of concrete block construction and have minimal entry points for enhanced security. The facilities will each be 115,000 square feet.
Both schools are expected to cost $43 million each. The site of Elementary School “X” is 7200 SW 49th Avenue Road, and Elementary School “W” is at 14320 SW 70th Avenue Road in Marion Oaks.
A major new development is in the works near the site of Elementary School “X” after the Ocala City Council approved the creation of a development district earlier this year of 460 acres of a former farm. Developer KimleyHorn plans to build nearly 1,700 single-family homes on the land.
As of June, the Ocala/ Marion County area is the fourth fastest-growing metropolitan area in the country and the ninth fastest-growing county in the country. With 269 people moving to the area each week, the age demographics of the people moving here are trending younger, which is expected to increase the student population in Marion County greatly, said Ocala Metro Chamber & Economic Partnership President and CEO Kevin Sheilley.
Hometown Heroes honored during benefit for NAMI Marion County
The 7th annual Hometown Heroes
Gala Hometown Heroes, which was a fundraiser for NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Marion County, was hosted by Hiers-Baxley Funeral Services on Sept. 5, at the Circle Square Cultural Center.
More than 100 first responders from Marion, Sumter, Levy, Lake, Alachua, Citrus, Putnam and Gilchrist counties, along with cities of Ocala, Williston, Belleview and Dunnellon, were honored.
The leadership of each department and local hospitals were invited to nominate three people to be recognized for outstanding service in the community and those whose actions saved a life. This year, the K9 award was renamed in memory of K9 Leo, who gave
his life saving his handler in a tragic event in February. Leo was posthumously awarded the Medal of Valor, the highest agency award that can be presented at the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.
Ocala Mayor Ben Marciano welcomed attendees. The keynote speaker was Judge Leann Mackey Barnes. Carali McLean, director of NAMI Florida, also addressed the gathering.
In addition to numerous awards being given, a lifetime achievement honor was presented to the Ocala Police Department’s Lt. Eric Hooper, with the Charlie Caulk Memorial Scholarship awards presented to aspiring first responders Grayson Chandler and Khary Alexander.
To learn more about the local nonprofit NAMI affiliate, go to namimarioncountyfl.org
Construction of the new elementary school by Ausley Construction is shown at Winding Oaks Farm in Ocala on Wednesday, June 5, 2024.
[Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2024.
On stage during the Hometown Heroes event is Leena Williams of Hiers-Baxley Funeral Services, which was the presenting sponsor. [Photo courtesy Hiers-Baxley]
From left are Hometown Heroes honorees Marion County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Josue Rivera, Ocala Fire Department firefighter Jackie Nettles, Ocala Police Department officer Dalton Ower, Marion County Fire Rescue’s Lance Long and OPD Lt. Eric Hooper, who received a lifetime achievement award. [Photo courtesy Hiers-Baxley]
A Home for a Hero program will benefit a local disabled veteran
Details of the collaboration of private and public organizations and the Housing Finance Authority of Marion County were announced Sept. 5.
By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com
Adisabled veteran needing a home will have the comfort and security of a three-bedroom house in the Rainbow Lakes area near Dunnellon next year thanks to the recently launched A Home for a Hero program.
The program to provide ADA adapted housing to a yet-to-be-selected, disabled, limited-income veteran is a collaboration of private and public veterans organizations administered by the Housing Finance Authority of Marion County.
A press conference to officially announce the donations and give a progress report on the program was held Sept. 5 at the Veterans Service Center on East Silver Springs Boulevard.
P.H. Culver, with the Housing Finance Authority of Marion County, said the A Home for a Hero program has been in the works for about five years.
The authority is a “separate public body corporate and politic” authorized by the state and established by the Board of County Commissioners here in 1980 to help “families and individuals in Marion County with affordable housing options,” according to HFA literature.
The HFA owns and manages 43 affordable rental units and provides “basic skills and financial literacy to HFA tenants” and focuses on increasing availability of affordable housing in the county. The HFA recently established the “Central Florida Community Land Trust
for vacant land and rental units within Marion County to ensure rental units will stay affordable for 99+ years,” according to the literature.
Donnie Mitchell, HFA project grant manager and a U.S. Air Force veteran, spearheaded the program on Thursday and said he was happy to handle the “unique” program. He called the “A Home for a Hero” program an example of how the “private sector and public sector work together to get a lot done.”
The program has been fueled in its inaugural year by a donation of $30,000 from Pedro R. Interian, founder and operator of Capris Furniture of Ocala, and his sons, Pedro C. Interian and John Interian, the donation of labor to build the 1,450-square-foot house by general contractor Danny Cribbs of C4 Construction LLC of Williston, and a building lot in Rainbow Lakes provided by Marion County, according to a press release issued by the Community Foundation of Ocala/Marion County, through which the initial donation by the Interians was made. The release noted that they also have pledged to “cover any remaining costs needed to complete the home.”
Pedro R. Interian came to the U.S. at the age of 12 from Cuba and later served in the U.S. military. He established Capris Furniture here in 1987. The family has operated several rental properties in the area, with housing offered to Capris Furniture employees.
“I want to give back to those who have served us. I came to this country
as a young Cuban immigrant, served proudly in the Vietnam War, and have been blessed with many opportunities,” Pedro R. Interian is quoted in part in the press release.
“My family and I have been fortunate to live and run our business in Ocala and Marion County, but we know many have not been as lucky, especially those who served our country or worked as first responders. That’s why we decided it’s time to give back,” he stated.
His sons, Pedro C. Interian and John Interian, attended the press conference and, with Lauren Deiorio, president and executive director of the Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County, presented an oversized check for $30,000.
Contractor Danny Cribbs stated in a text that the house will be “ADA compliant.” He explained that the “C4” name of his business is a reference to his family name initial and four family members. He said his passion for helping a veteran in need is likely related to his 20 years of service as a firefighter and paramedic with Marion County Fire Rescue and, currently, with the Reedy Creek Fire Department.
The disabled veteran, who has not yet been named, will have to meet certain conditions, including financial and income qualifications, be able to pay $200 per month on a 30-year mortgage, be able to pay home operational expenses
and be honorably discharged with at least four years of service, according to program guidelines.
The selected veteran may not have been tied to a home mortgage for at least five years and have an 80% service-connected disability, the guidelines indicate.
Jeffrey Askew, director of the Marion County Veterans Service Office; Hank Whittier of Veterans Helping Veterans of Marion County; and Bobbie Shaw, a social worker with the Department of Veterans Affairs/North Florida South Georgia Veterans Health System, who works with programs including those for homeless veterans; were on hand at the press conference to represent the collaborative effort between the HFA and the veterans community.
Although no move-in timetable was announced, Cribbs said the house “will definitely (be) complete in 2025.”
Officials said they hope the program will be repeated in 2025 with community support.
The A Home for a Hero program saw a collaborative effort among the donors and public and private agencies to help a veteran who served, said County Commissioner Craig Curry.
“It’s a heartwarming project,” Curry said.
To learn more, go to bit.ly/mc-home-for-a-hero
Holding the A Home for a Hero donation check, from left to right, are Lauren Deiorio, president and executive director of the Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County, and Pedro C. Interian and John Interian and, sons of Pedro R. Interian, the founder and operator of Capris Furniture of Ocala. [Andy Fillmore]
John Interian and Pedro C. Interian, the sons of Pedro R. Interian, the founder and operator of Capris Furniture of Ocala, speak during a press conference held Sept. 5 to launch the A Home for a Hero program. [Andy Fillmore]
What drives voters? The years with the biggest spikes in voter registration
By Elena Cox
Americans are already gearing up for the 2024 presidential election, and it’ll likely be a contentious one. As Republican hopefuls stump for their party’s nomination, there’s a feeling of déjà vu in the air, with the lingering possibility of a Biden-Trump rematch.
Stacker examined U.S. Census data to show how registration changes depending on who’s on the ballot and find which states had the lowest share of registered voters in the 2022 midterm elections. This article is part of U.S. Democracy Day, a nationwide collaborative on Sept. 15, the International Day of Democracy, in which news organizations cover how democracy works and the threats it faces. To learn more, visit usdemocracyday.org.
Last year, more than 121 million Americans cast their ballots, recording the second-highest midterm turnout in two decades, according to Census data. Registrations were also up, with 69.1% of eligible Americans on the voter rolls, the highest level for a Congressional election since at least 1978.
But just because someone is registered to vote doesn’t always mean they’ll show up on election day. In 2022, voter turnout as a percentage of those registered to vote fell 4.4 percentage points from 2018.
The Census measures voter registration by the number of voting-age citizens formally enrolled on an official list of voters in their state. Not all citizens of voting age are eligible to vote; felony disenfranchisement laws, in particular, can alter the number of voting-age citizens who are actually able to cast a ballot and, therefore, register to vote.
Eligibility and how to register varies by state, with some making it easier than others. In North Dakota, for example, there is no formal registration process, and voters can show up at their polling place with proper identification, meaning everyone is automatically registered. In states such as Mississippi, voters must register at least 30 days before Election Day.
Voter registration over the years
Voters tend to be more engaged during presidential election years, as seen in the spike in registrations. That’s likely because there are more candidates on the ballot and increased media coverage of key races. But registration has never topped more than 75%, like it did in 1992 when Bill Clinton defeated George H.W. Bush.
The United States lags behind other countries in terms of voter registration and participation. Registration is mandatory in more than half of the 229 countries tracked by the ACE Electoral Knowledge Network, a nonprofit organization that tracks election laws globally.
In Israel, voters are automatically registered when they become eligible. Registration is mandatory in the United Kingdom, and citizens can receive fines for not registering. Currently, 23 states and Washington D.C. allow automatic registration, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.
Voter registration varies by state
Because each state runs its registration differently, some states have more registered voters than others.
In 2022, Oregon had the highest share of registered voters, at 82.7%.
Eligible voters in that state are automatically registered when they get a license from the Oregon Department of Transportation. Earlier this year, the governor signed a bill that would automatically register people enrolled in the state’s Medicaid program. On the flip side, North Carolina and Arkansas had the lowest share of registered voters, a holdover from Jim Crow-era voting restrictions. This year in North Carolina—where 60% of eligible voters were registered in 2022—voters must show a photo ID to cast a ballot in person for the first time. Arkansas, which had the lowest voter turnout in 2018, also has restrictive voter access. In 2022, a federal judge found the state violated the Voting Rights Act by limiting in-person assistance to people casting ballots.
Why people vote
Registering to vote is the first step in participating in the Democratic process, and increased registration can boost overall turnout.
But while the 2022 election had the second-highest turnout rates for a midterm election in 20 years, only 52.2% of the voting-age population participated, according to Census data.
People vote for all sorts of reasons, including altruism and to gain social approval. But often, life gets in the way. More than a quarter of people who didn’t vote in 2022 say it was because they were too busy or had a scheduling conflict, part of why early voting has gained traction in recent years. Story editing by Ashleigh Graf. Copy editing by Kristen Wegrzyn.
‘The most horrible day’
Those at the Capitol on Jan. 6 carry scars, shame, satisfaction
By Lillie
The insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, will forever be remembered as one of the darkest days in American history.
Thousands converged to support then-President Donald Trump and his false claims that he was the victor over Joe Biden in the 2020 election. “If you don’t fight like hell,” Trump told the masses, “you’re not going to have a country anymore.”
Soon after, demonstrators wearing “Make America Great Again” baseball caps and, in some cases, full riot gear assaulted police, smashed windows and stormed the Capitol building, intent on blocking certification of the results.
Nearly four years later, more than 1,400 people have been charged in connection with the insurrection. Some have no regrets. Others brim with remorse. “You don’t want to tell people you’re a Jan. 6er,” one says. “It’s not something to be proud of.”
Meanwhile, those who stood against the mob still carry physical and emotional scars.
Four people who were there gave News21 access to their daily lives to share the enduring impact of that day.
These are their stories.
PAMELA HEMPHILL
With her phone attached to a selfie stick, Pamela Hemphill filmed as the mob pushed past law enforcement and made its way into the Capitol building on Jan. 6.
“I was just as much a MAGA as all the MAGAs in believing that the election was stolen,” the now-71year-old says.
Today, Hemphill is committed to electing Vice President Kamala Harris— not Trump—come November, and to making amends for her participation in what she calls the most horrible day in America.
“It’s like breaking your leg, but you always have a limp,” she says. “I’m always going to have a limp.”
Hemphill was 41 years sober when she stepped onto the Capitol grounds, a decision that would alter her life. A grandmother, cancer survivor and recovering alcoholic, Hemphill served two months in prison and another 36 months on probation.
Now living in Boise, Idaho, she says she wants to leverage her past as a right-wing activist, Trump supporter and addict to help others who, like her, might base bad decisions on disinformation.
“They say in (Alcoholics Anonymous) our past is our greatest asset, because with it we can help others if we recognize that we were wrong and make amends,” Hemphill says. “So that’s what this is all about: making amends for that horrible day that I can never live down.”
Hemphill says she fell into a deep depression after the riot, prompting her to seek help from AA, a safe haven for her since she was 27.
“It doesn’t matter how long you’re sober—you can go into denial in any area of your life,” she says. “You could be in a bad relationship, a bad job, doing things like I did on Jan. 6. It’s not like the program restores you to sanity immediately. Character defects are still glaring. I have a lot of them.”
Since her release from federal prison, Hemphill has shared her experience on social media and in interviews, speaking out against Trump, whom she calls a “narcissist.”
“It’s part of my ways of making amends for that horrible day, the most horrible day of our nation,” she says. “You never can really make amends, per se, to make it right. But I’ll try to do the best I can to let the nation know I am so sorry.”
When asked if she regrets her actions on Jan. 6, Hemphill says: “I can’t stay stuck in the past, in the guilt and the shame, but that’s where I was for a long time—and I’m still a little bit.
“You don’t want to tell people you’re a Jan. 6er. It’s not something to be proud of.”
NATHAN DeGRAVE
Boudreaux, Hudson French, Donovan Johnson and Ismael Lele News21
Nathan DeGrave, 35, spent a year and a half in jail and six
On Jan. 6, 2021, a mob converged at the U.S. Capitol to attempt to stop certification of the 2020 election, which then-President Donald Trump claimed was stolen. Almost four years later, many still carry the physical and emotional scars of that day. [Donovan Johnson/News21]
Pamela Hemphill inside of her apartment in Boise, Idaho, on June 17, 2024. Hemphill says she was “just as much a MAGA as all the MAGAs” when she went to the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. [Donovan Johnson/News21]
months in federal prison for his role in the insurrection, then was transferred to a halfway house in Las Vegas to serve the rest of his 37-month sentence.
Leading up to Jan. 6, DeGrave says he didn’t believe the 2020 election was fair. He was working 16-hour days at his marketing company, so when a friend told him he was going to the Capitol to rally on Trump’s behalf, DeGrave says he viewed it as a break and went along.
According to court documents, the car DeGrave and his companions drove to the Capitol contained paramilitary gear, a Glock pistol, an M&P Bodyguard pocket pistol, two magazines of ammunition, knives, a stun gun, an expandable baton, two-way radios and bear mace.
DeGrave was among the crowd that pushed against officers to force open the Capitol rotunda doors, “allowing the mob outside to begin streaming in,” according to court records. Once inside, he joined in a “shoving match” with police who tried to block rioters from entering the Senate gallery.
In 2022, DeGrave pleaded guilty to two counts: conspiracy to obstruct a proceeding and assaulting, resisting or impeding officers.
He says Jan. 6 “was an opportunity for us to finally speak out after being silenced for so long.”
“I was knocked to the ground by someone trying to steal my baton, who kicked me in the chest, and my medical mask got pulled up over my eyes,” Hodges recalls. “I was blind and on all fours, surrounded by the mob. I thought I was gonna get torn apart at that point.”
A Connecticut man who used a police riot shield to pin Hodges against a door was sentenced to seven and a half years in prison for nine offenses. In court records, the attacker’s lawyer said he was “motivated by a misunderstanding as to the facts surrounding the 2020 election” and had “listened to sources of information
Gonell, 45, came to the United States from the Dominican Republic when he was 12 years old— searching, like so many others, for the American dream. He served in Iraq with the U.S. Army after the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks.
“I wanted to serve this country,” he says, “and give back some of the things that were given to me.”
In 2006, he continued that service, joining the U.S. Capitol Police as an officer. And he says what he experienced on Jan. 6 was “a lot worse” than his deployment in Iraq.
On the day of the insurrection, Gonell joined other officers who tried to stop rioters from entering the Capitol through the west terrace tunnel. That tunnel would become the site of some of the most violent attacks against law enforcement.
While trapped in the tunnel, Gonell says, he “nearly died being crushed.” For more than three hours, he was pushed, punched and kicked by more than 40 people. He later required two surgeries to repair his left shoulder and right foot after being dragged by rioters.
Those are the most severe injuries, he says. But also: “Contusions, lacerations, both my hands were bleeding at some point.”
Despite the pain, Gonell continued doing his job—defending the Capitol and those inside. “I knew what was at stake,” he says. “Some people might see a clip of me walking around fine, but I wasn’t fine.”
In December 2022, Gonell left the police force to focus on healing his physical and emotional wounds.
that were clearly false.”
A Texas man responsible for pulling Hodges’ mask off was sentenced to seven years in prison and two years of supervised release for multiple felony charges. Court documents say that during the attack, he jeered at Hodges: “How do you like me now, f****r?!” He then grabbed Hodges’ riot baton and hit him over the head.
“Throughout this assault, Officer Hodges screamed and pleaded for help,” court records say.
Although he wasn’t close with his family before, DeGrave says he hasn’t spoken to his mother since the insurrection, and he’s lost touch with other relatives and some friends. He nevertheless says his life now is even better than before.
DeGrave says he does not feel “any shame” for his participation in the riot. Like some other Jan. 6ers, he considers himself a “political prisoner”—and he remains a fervent backer of Trump.
In June, DeGrave attended a Trump rally in Las Vegas. He wore a shirt emblazoned with a photo of himself in full riot gear on Jan. 6 and approached reporters to offer interviews.
“I stormed the Capitol,” he told News21.
Later that month, DeGrave was invited to speak at a local church for the premiere of “Let My People Go,” a documentary that portrays the imprisonment of Jan. 6 felons as a “form of slavery.” At the screening, viewers asked to pose for photos with him, thanking him for his actions and calling him a “hero.”
DeGrave said he regrets having made anyone feel unsafe, but he stands by his actions.
“I think Jan. 6 was a warning shot—it’s nothing compared to what could happen,” he says. “The problems that are exacerbating and creating these situations are not being addressed. We’re shoving it down and we’re shoving it down until, eventually, the public and the American people reach a breaking point.”
He adds: “I don’t feel any shame about what I did.”
DANIEL HODGES AND AQUILINO GONELL
Daniel Hodges and Aquilino Gonell are two of the 140 police officers who were assaulted during the attack on the Capitol. They continue to share their experiences about that day and advocate for the future of democracy in the United States.
In the aftermath of the attack, Hodges testified before the congressional committee that investigated the insurrection. He’s also made several public appearances.
“I feel a moral obligation to speak the truth about what happened that day and try to steer the world toward a more just and equitable exercise of our government,” he says.
While Hodges fulfills his duties as a police officer, he’s also studying for a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies. He wants to learn more about the country and its history.
Hodges says it’s up to all U.S. citizens to be curious about the nation they live in and to be active participants in democracy.
“Democracy is only as strong as the people who believe in it and the people who participate in it,” he says. “So it is up to us.”
Hodges was awarded the Presidential Citizens Medal by President Joe Biden on the second anniversary of the attack. The medal is given to those who perform exemplary deeds for their country or fellow citizens.
To those who have called the police officers who defended the Capitol “traitors” or spewed conspiracy theories that the attack was an “inside job” orchestrated by undercover agents, Hodges responds: “It’s not us who were the traitors.”
“Having to return to the scene of the crime almost every day has become taxing, unbearable and not conducive to healing,” he wrote in his resignation letter. “I will always support and defend the United States and my fellow police officers as they stand between order and chaos.”
As an immigrant, Gonell finds it hypocritical when Trump and other Republicans rail about an “invasion” at
the southern border. “The only invasion that I’m worried about is another Jan. 6,” he says. “This was done by mainly native U.S. citizens.”
“We were defending the United States Capitol. We were defending the peaceful transfer of power,” he adds. “The mob were the ones who had laid siege to the Capitol of the United States. There’s really no reasonable way to understand its defenders as traitors.”
Gonell has testified before Congress and appeared on national television to dispute conspiracy theories about police officers who were on duty Jan. 6. More than anything, he says, he wants those who participated in the attack to take full responsibility.
Last year, a Michigan man connected with a militia group was sentenced to four years in prison for striking Gonell with a stolen police baton. A second man, from Idaho, received four years for also assaulting Gonell.
In a 2022 victim impact statement, Gonell said he’d installed cameras at his home to ease his family’s concerns about retaliation and attended biweekly counseling sessions to help him cope with lingering psychological trauma.
“For many Americans,” he wrote, “the tragic and horrific events of January 6th concluded after a few hours or that day after. However, for me, it has not ended. January 6th continues every day.”
Today, Gonell spends most of his downtime in nature, which helps him clear his mind. And he continues to speak out about what happened that January day in Washington.
“At the end of the day, that’s what I want—accountability for what happened, justice for what happened,” he says. “We were outnumbered because of the sheer fact that the former president sent people to the Capitol and didn’t do anything to stop it.
“Everything that I do is for my ancestors, our forefathers and people who fought wars and made so many sacrifices for our country. Will they be OK with what the country is— or is becoming?”
News21 reporter Josie Malave contributed to this story. This report is part of “Fractured,” an examination of the state of American democracy produced by Carnegie-Knight News21. For more stories, visit https:// fractured.news21.com.
Hodges, 36, has served with the Metropolitan Police Department in Washington, D.C., for more than nine years. On Jan. 6, 2021, he and his platoon responded to the west terrace of the Capitol.
A trailer plastered with signs sits outside the First Baptist Church of Henderson in Henderson, Nev., Friday, June 28, 2024. The church was the site of a screening of “Let My People Go,” a documentary about Jan. 6ers. [Hudson French/News21]
Nathan DeGrave displays his so-called
“Trump money” after giving a speech on Friday, June 28, 2024, at a church in Henderson, Nev., about his time in prison stemming from his role in the Capitol insurrection. [Hudson French/News21]
Nathan DeGrave poses with, from left to right, Kristen Ditto, Mike Hutchings and R.J. Hutchings after a screening of “Let My People Go,” a documentary about Jan. 6ers, at a church in Henderson, Nev., on June 28, 2024. [Hudson French/News21]
Daniel Hodges, a Metropolitan police officer and one of many law officers who responded to the Jan. 6 insurrection, poses for a portrait outside of his home in Hyattsville, Md., on July 1, 2024. [Donovan Johnson/News21]
Daniel Hodges, a Metropolitan police officer, was awarded the Presidential Citizens Medal from President Joe Biden on the second anniversary of the attack on the U.S. Capitol. The medal, on display in Hodges’ home in Hyattsville, Md., on July 1, 2024, is given to those who perform exemplary deeds for his or her country or fellow citizens. [Donovan Johnson/ News21]
Former Capitol Police Sgt. Aquilino Gonell, in Washington, D.C., on July 1, 2024, holds a frame displaying glass shards and rubber bullets collected from the insurrection. He keeps them as a reminder of what he went through. [Donovan Johnson/News21]
Aquilino Gonell served in Iraq with the U.S. Army and as an officer with U.S. Capitol Police for 17 years before the Jan. 6 insurrection. His Army uniform hangs from a gazebo in Occoquan, Va., on July 2, 2024.
People walk in front of the U.S. Capitol on July 2, 2024. (Photo by Donovan Johnson/News21)
Rail-to-trail threatened
Continued from page A1
Jon Barber, a real estate broker who is the driving force behind the rail-to-trail proposal, has brought up the plan with city, county and state officials to suggest purchasing the railway from CSX Transportation to make the idea a reality.
“Trails in communities across Florida, across the country, across the world, give people an opportunity to travel to places without cars,” Barber said. “Imagine a linear park with a trail connecting Tuscawilla Park to downtown Ocala, past the S-Curve to Brick City Park then on to Forest High School, the Rotary Sports Complex, the Cross Florida Greenway, Baseline Trailhead and Lake Weir High School. That’s a transformational change for our community that cannot happen for the foreseeable future if the county commission approves that application.”
Ted Schatt, an attorney and board member of Ocala Main Street, coordinated with Barber to begin scheduling conversations with city and county officials in May until the competing proposal halted their progress.
“We’re not a huge fan of this train running through downtown now, when it runs through with four to six cars,” Schatt said. “If they’re talking about it being a 30car train, it’s going to stretch from one end of downtown to the other end of downtown when it’s going through, and that’s going to be bad for the redevelopment efforts that we’re doing.”
ADS officials said using the 450,000-square-foot Certified Grocer facility for manufacturing plastic polypropylene, polyethylene pipe and products could create up to 300 new jobs. The site is currently zoned as Heavy Business, and the special-use permit application must be approved to change the zoning to Heavy Industrial for the project to move forward.
In addition to ADS using the facility for manufacturing, it would also need to construct 36 silos, each 60-feet tall for storage, “which will be served by expansions made to the existing rail spurs,” according to the application.
“The maximum capacity potential for the railcars using that section of railway has been considered but is not expected to be reached for at least three years. At full capacity, the railroad crossings would stop traffic for an additional 1.5 minutes,” wrote county spokesperson Stacey Causey. “This application is for the revitalization of pre-existing facility, which was built in 1972 and is coming back online.”
Trains that run the line, which was built in the 1800s, must travel at slow speeds to avoid derailment. At least two train derailments have occurred in the past decade.
To remedy this, the rail-to-trail
proposal suggests that the line be broken down into three trails.
Osceola Trail would stretch 2 miles from Tuscawilla Park, through downtown, past Osceola Middle School until Brick City Park. The Wildcat Trail would stretch about 5.5 miles from Brick City Park, past Big Sun Soccer, and east of Forest High School and the Rotary Sportsplex. The Hurricane Trail would stretch 6.2 miles from Silver Springs Shores, past the Leeward Air Ranch and end at Lake Weir High School.
“Rails-to-trails are documented to create jobs and locally owned businesses. This economic development results in the creation of local wealth benefiting the community,” according to the proposal.
Additionally, rails-to-rails are documented to increase the value of surrounding residential and commercial property and provide health benefits for users.
Given that the line runs adjacent to many residential areas, residents in the Laurel Run community have expressed opposition to the ADS application out of concern over the potential for increased train traffic. The rail crosses at the nearby 18th Avenue, just east of Brick City Park.
Janet Behnke, attorney and Laurel Run resident, wrote to the county commission in opposition to the ADS application.
“I remember riding horses down this track as a girl in the early 1960s, from Tom Smith’s stables, located where Woodland Villages now stands, adjacent to where Laurel Run now stands, to Candler,” Behnke wrote. “A similar use today, as a multipurpose trail, would be a much better use than increased rail traffic.”
Other crossings of concern include Southeast 17th Street, Southeast 31st Street, Southeast 36th Avenue and Baseline Road.
Commissioner Craig Curry said he has received calls from the public in opposition to the application. Curry lives in an area where the train passes behind his home, but said he doesn’t plan to recuse himself from the vote unless the county
attorney advises him to do so.
Parcel owners near the Certified Grocer site were given public notice about the ADS application through the mail and by published legal ads. Lauren Run residents were made aware of the potential for increased rail traffic through a message from the neighborhood’s Homeowners Association.
If the city of Ocala, Marion County or grassroots partners wish to purchase the rail line from CSX to create a multiuse trail, there is an opportunity for state funding to be offered for the project, said Mickey Thomason, former manager of the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway. Now retired, Thomason has over 30 years of experience with the Department of Environmental Protection’s Office of Greenways and Trails and the Florida Park Service.
“The state does get funding through the Office of Greenways and Trails, depending on how much money is funded each year by the Legislature and the governor into Florida Forever, then they get a chunk of money to pursue the acquisition of these rail corridors. They’ve been successful in buying them in a lot of places around the state,” Thomason said.
The rail-to-trail proposal for Ocala mirrors the Nature Coast State Trail in Gainesville, a 30-mile trail that was created after the state acquired a portion of the rail corridor.
Thomason said that before he retired, CSX expressed interest to Trust for Public Lands, a nonprofit that creates park spaces, in selling the portion of railroad in Ocala.
“I know it’s been on the state’s list for a long time of something they were interested in, as far as part of the regional and statewide Greenways and Trails Network,” Thomason said.
If the commission approves the ADS application for use of the site and railroad, then the chance to create a trail through the heart of the community will be taken off the table.
“Ocala and Marion County should not let that opportunity slip away,” Barber said.
STRIKING POSES
Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette
Advanced Drainage Systems has applied for a special use permit to manufacture plastic products at the Certified Grocer site and use Florida Northern Railroad through downtown Ocala.
On Sept. 16, the Marion County Commission will vote on an application from Advanced Drainage Systems to manufacture plastic products at the Certified Grocer site.
AKA chapter works to provide scholarships and community programming
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., is the first intercollegiate historically African American sorority and was founded at Howard University in Washington, D.C., in 1908. There are 1,000 chapters and nearly 300,000 members in more than 55 nations and all 50 United States. For the past 60 years, the Eta Tau Omega Chapter has dedicated itself to making a meaningful impact in Ocala/Marion County through exceptional programming and service projects.
The overall AKA mission is to cultivate and encourage high scholastic and ethical standards, to promote unity and friendship among college women, to study and help alleviate problems concerning girls and women in order to improve their social stature, to maintain a progressive interest in college life, and to be of “Service to All Mankind.”
The Eta Tau Omega Chapter sponsors several local initiatives, including a monthly Youth Leadership Institute for middle
school students at the Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, the Childhood Hunger Initiative Power Pack (CHIPP) that provides food for students at Reddick Collier Elementary, and environmental efforts such as adopting a section of Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue and partnering with the Ocala Mayor’s Clean-Up. The chapter also supports Interfaith Emergency Services with food and personal necessities, along with various other activities that benefit the community.
To help raise funds for college scholarships for local high school senior girls and provide these community programs, the chapter will host a Denim & Pearls Gala on Oct. 12 at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Ocala.
“Organizing such an impactful event requires significant resources and support. We are working diligently to secure support from community businesses. Over the last 40 years, we have awarded approximately $15,000 annually in scholarships. Our goal this year is $20,000,” noted chapter member Leah Taylor in a news release. “Your support, whether big or small, will make a meaningful difference in the lives of many individuals and families. With your help, our Denim & Pearls Gala will make a difference in our community.”
To learn more about sponsorship and tickets to the gala, email harriet.daniels@gmail.com or bourgesjones@aol.com.
Night of Hope returns
The annual charity event will benefit the Marion County Children’s Alliance and survivors of domestic violence.
Staff report
The Marion County Children’s Alliance Family Violence Prevention
Workgroup is hosting its annual Night of Hope on Thursday, Sept. 26, at the College of Central Florida, 3001 SW College Road, beginning at 5:30 p.m.
The annual nonprofit event is dedicated to remembering and commemorating the victims and survivors of domestic violence. The keynote speaker this year is the Rev. Michael Neely, lead pastor at New Millennium Community Church in Tampa. Neely is an advocate for abuse victims and is a survivor of domestic violence himself. He has written extensively on the topic and his book “Black Eyes and Sweet Talk: A Biblical Perspective on Domestic Violence” examines coping techniques for abuse from a Christian perspective, relying on scripture and his own experience as a means of providing relief.
Guests will also be treated to dinner and enjoy live music. The event will include testimonies from survivors, on-site vendors, and information about ways to support the children’s alliance and survivors of domestic violence. Three outstanding individuals, as nominated by the community, will be recognized. Through Sept. 20, donors can sponsor or contribute to creating gift baskets, each with a specialty theme, such as “personal pampering,” “board games,” “gardening,” “scrapbooking and memories” and more. The baskets will be donated to the community. People can also donate tickets to community members to attend the event for free. These donations can be made on-site at the MCCA building at 3482 NW 10th St. Ocala, or by phone at (352) 438-5990. Tickets for the event are $40 and are available on the Marion County Children’s Alliance ticket website at bit.ly/NOH2024 or at the MCCA building. Childcare will be available for children ages 2 and up.
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Members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Eta Tau Omega Chapter, are shown during their Harlem Renaissance Gala event. The chapter this year is hosting a Denim & Pearls gala on Oct. 12. [Submitted photo]
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People, Places & Things
‘You
never forget…’
Speakers and guests recall terrorist attacks, sacrifices, during annual 9/11 Memorial Service.
By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com
Diane and Philip Rosler are glad to see annual events like the 9/11 Memorial Service that took place at the OcalaMarion County Veterans Memorial Park on Sept. 11 and marked the 23rd anniversary of the 2001 terrorist attacks.The couple was working in the Twin Towers area on Sept 11, 2001, and saw firsthand the impact of the attacks and suffered a family loss.
“It never leaves you and you never forget,” said Diane Rosler.
Philip Rosler was working in the New York court system at the time. He said his cousin, Thomas McHale, 33, was in the north tower and died as a result of the attack.
The event was sponsored by Marion County Veterans Services. Emcee Matthew Cretul introduced Marion County Board of County Commissioners Chair Michelle Stone for opening remarks.
“For most of us, just mentioning 9/11 brings back that sickening, surreal feeling of disbelief,” she said, adding that we lost people from “all walks of life” from 90 countries.
“We are here also today to honor the first responders in our community and around the country, in addition to the hundreds of thousands who have served in our armed forces here at home abroad to fight for freedom. Today is about honoring the heroism that rose from this destruction,” Stone stated
Stone called for support for first responders, military and victims’ families and a renewed commitment to uphold American values.
Marion County Fire Rescue Chaplain Joe LaCognata offered an invocation and MCBCC Vice Chair Kathy Bryant sang the national anthem.
A combined color guard was formed by members of the Marion County Memorial Honor Guard, Marion County Fire Rescue, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Ocala Fire Rescue and the Ocala Police Department. John Earl provided bagpipe music.
MCFR Chief James Banta offered “a 9/11 perspective from a firefighter’s lens,” according to the official program.
“As a firefighter, 9/11 changed my perspective on this career. It became more than just a job; it became a calling—a reminder that what we do matters deeply,” he stated.
“That day underscored the courage, sacrifice, and commitment that define who we are. But it also opened my eyes to the unpredictability of this profession and the fact that any call could be our last,” Banta said.
“It reinforced the importance of being prepared, of training hard, and of never taking for granted the bond we share as firefighters,” he said.
Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods referred to the attacks as events that “define who we are” and recalled speaking with his grandmother about the Dec. 7, 1941, attack on Pearl Harbor.
“It warms my heart to see the children here,”
Woods said.
He said we should never forget those who made the “ultimate sacrifice” to help others and never forget the tragedy.
A timeline of the 9/11 attacks was given by OPD Lt. Eric Hooper and a “last call” by 911 dispatch was played on the address system.
According to history.com, the north tower of the World Trade Center was struck at 8:45 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 11, 2001, by an American Airlines Boeing 767 loaded with 20,000 gallons of fuel. The 110-story tower was damaged from the 93rd story to the 99th story.
About 18 minutes later, a United Airlines Boeing 767 “sliced into the south tower between the 77th and 85th floors.”
“At the World Trade Center, 2,763 died after the two planes slammed into the twin towers. That figure includes 343 firefighters and paramedics, 23 New York City police officers and 37 Port Authority police officers who were struggling to complete an evacuation of the buildings and save the office workers trapped on higher floors,” the site states.
The Pentagon was struck at 9:45 a.m. that morning by an American Airlines Boeing 757, Flight 77. “All told, 125 military personnel and civilians were killed in the Pentagon, along with all 64 people aboard the airliner,” the website notes.
United Flight 93, which had been hijacked, crashed into the ground in a “rural field” in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, at 10:10 a.m. on Sept. 11, after passengers confronted the hijackers, according to the website. Flight 93 passenger Todd Beamer was heard through an “open line” to say, “Let’s roll,” to a group of passengers preparing to fight the hijackers. All 44 persons aboard perished when the plane crashed into the ground, but the actions of the passengers likely averted a strike at possibly one of several targets, including the White House, the website indicates.
OFR Chief Clint Welborn spoke about the meaning of ringing bells in fire stations. The “striking of the bell” is a ceremonial ringing of four groups of five strikes.
Taps was sounded and County Commissioner Matt Mc Clain delivered closing remarks.
Honored guests included Howard Mautner, 100, a World War II veteran and Cookie Burke, a Vietnam War era veteran.
Jose Navarro, 79, and his wife Gladys, sat close to the stage. The couple and their sons, Jose Jr. and Alexandro,were living in New York at the time of the attacks.
Hank Whittier, executive director of Marion County Veterans Helping Veterans, said he was in his office in the Veterans Affairs medical clinic in the Cascades office complex on Sept.11, 2001. He said he thought initially the plane crash was an accident.
Both Philip and Diane Rosler, who moved here in 2023,want to see annual 9/11 memorials go on.
“It’s absolutely important that these memorials continue,” said Diane Rosler.
Left to right: Emersyn, 3, center, and Matthew Cretul Jr., 9, right, hold American flags as they listen with their mother, Stephanie Cretul, left, during the 9/11 Memorial Service at the Ocala/Marion County Veterans Memorial Park in Ocala on Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2024. The colors are presented during the 9/11 Memorial Service.
Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette
Top to bottom: Memorial wreaths are laid during the 9/11 Memorial Service at the Ocala/Marion County Veterans Memorial Park in Ocala on Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2024. Marion County Fire Rescue firefighter/ paramedic Kenneth Haworth, of the MCFR Honor Guard, rings a memorial bell. Officers with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office and the Ocala Police Department pray together. Monroe Haworth, 2, sits with her mother, Jerrica, as they listen to the memorial service.
Dedicated food manager retires
Steve Clem has spent 18 years with Interfaith Emergency Services, where he managed thousands of pounds of food donations annually.
By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com
Steve Clem is retiring after 18 years of working with Interfaith Emergency Service, a job he feels was a literal godsend.
Clem, 79, moved to the Ocala area in 1982 from Elkhart, Indiana, and worked in sales and the mobile home industry. He first came to IES in 2006 and worked at the organization’s thrift store on Pine Avenue.
Around 10 years ago, he started helping at other IES facilities.
In 2016, he transferred to the IES Rueben Brawner Food Distribution Warehouse at 450 NW 2nd Ave., where last year he and his crew managed more than 1 million pounds of food donations, according to IES CEO Karla Greenway.
Clem said he was impressed by the work of the small army of volunteers at the warehouse.
so much about the people we serve. He has been a blessing to this agency and to me personally and will be missed very much,” Greenway stated.
Bruce Reed, part of the crew at the IES warehouse, said he met Clem seven years ago and that they are best friends. The IES September 2024 “Good News Letter” called Clem and his staff the “Dream Team.”
To learn more, go to iesmarion.org
“This is an unbelievable community. The donations blew me away,” he said. Clem handled donations through the National Association of Letter Carriers Help Stamp Out Hunger food drive which, according to reports, netted more than 100,000 pounds of food in recent years, and other such food drives. He also handled the transfer of about 20% of annual food donations to other area charities, including the Gateway of Hope, Our Savior Lutheran, Brother’s Keepers and His Compassion, Greenway noted. She said IES also shares snacks, drinks and candy with the Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office and the Boys and Girls Club of Marion County.
Clem said his experiences with IES brought out “the compassion in me.” He added that he enjoyed every moment on the job until recent surgery had an effect on his work.
Maxi Rodriquez, the food distribution assistant manager, will move to Clem’s former position.
IES CEO Karla Greenway called Clem a “blessing.”
“Steve has been such a big part of Interfaith. His willingness to accommodate our donors has been extraordinary. He would move heaven and earth to meet the requests of neighborhoods, churches, the letter carriers and other groups that support Interfaith. Clem does this because he cares
Red Sanborn of Interfaith Emergency Services, left, and Steve Clem unload donated items from a U.S.P.S. truck during the Stamp Out Hunger Letter Carrier Food Drive in Ocala on May 11, 2024. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]
From left, Jody Schiable, IES pastor; C.J. Ackerman; board member James Sanborn; Steve Clem on the forklift; Bruce Reed; and Maxi Rodriguez; pose at Interfaith Emergency Services on Sept. 6, 2024. Clem is retiring after 18 years with one of the area’s busiest nonprofit agencies and Rodriguez will step into his role. [Andy Fillmore]
Patriots Day observed Sept. 7
By Andy Fillmore andy@ocalagazette.com
The Patriots Day Community Remembrance Ceremony held Sept. 7 at Highland Memorial Park paid tribute to the victims and first responders of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks while speakers urged attendees to never forget the tragedy.
A moveable 9/11 wall with multiple panels containing the
names of those lost in the attacks was on display at the park in northeast Ocala. A Patriot Ride to the Wall saw members of groups including the Christian Motorcyclists Association and the Punishers Motorcycle Club, a law enforcement group, meet at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion and travel to the park. The Ocala Jeep Club had a display of more than a dozen patriotically decorated vehicles, including Ben and Rosie Adams’ yellow Jeep, adorned with a large heart and
agencies. Hannah Stucky sang the national anthem and God Bless America. Tom Schmitz, the “Voice of Ocala Talks,” served as moderator.
John Earl provided bagpipe music, including a rendition of “Amazing Grace,” and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office Aviation Unit provided a flyover. Ocala Police Department chaplain Tony Clayton gave a benediction.
A special guest was Howard Mautner, 100, a World War II veteran who served in the Army Air Corps. Mautner led the attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance while holding an American flag.
A group of Punishers Motorcycle Club members and many others stopped to shake hands with Mautner and thank him.
Another honored guest was Jason Hartley, 47, a New York City Fire Department EMT in 2001 and later an EMT/ firefighter, who responded to the Twin Towers scene shortly after the towers collapsed.
“I still have visions,” he said of the horror and destruction.
Ocala Fire Rescue Battalion Chief Eric Prendergast was one of the featured speakers.
an eagle.
Hiers-Baxley Funeral Services sponsored the event and General Manager Bruce Sessler gave opening remarks. A company representative said current plans are to transport the 9/11 wall to different venues.
The ceremony included an invocation by Marion County Fire Rescue Chaplain Josh Dees and the presentation of the colors by the Marion County Memorial Honor Guard and members of local first responder
“The horrors of 9/11 forever changed our nation,” Prendergast said.
Prendergast said 343 firefighters who rushed in buildings to help victims “paid the ultimate price” and the 9/11 tragedy led to significant changes in the way firefighters approach their work: impacting training, equipment and preparedness.
MCFR Capt. Pamela FallenDriggers gave a history of fire house bell ringing to signal certain events and a bell was rung during the ceremony.
Dunnellon Police Chief Chris Scaglione gave a timeline of the events of Sept. 11, 2001.
Fallen-Driggers and OPD Lt. Eric Hooper served as co-chairs for the program.
Steve Gardner, a board member with American Hometown Veterans Assist, was also a guest speaker. AHVA, based in Archer, in nearby Alachua County, has a mission “to make a difference in the lives of American veterans and first responders by assisting them with urgent needs, scholarships, and finding resolutions to overcome barriers and challenges while working to empower them towards a better quality of life,” according to the organization’s website.
The keynote speaker was Craig Ham, a Vietnam War veteran, retired U.S. Army colonel, former administrator with Marion County Public Schools and president of the Marion County Veterans Council, Inc. and the Kingdom of the Sun Chapter of the Military Officers of America Association.
Ham recalled seeing a plane crash into a building on a television at Forest High School and said he “immediately knew it was a terrorist attack.”
“9/11 should have been a wake-up call, like Pearl Harbor was, but the galvanizing influence of the event has been forfeited in this age of instant information and polarizing views,” he stated in an email after the ceremony.
“America must remain strong, and to do that we need to unify the citizenry around the very concepts that made us a world leader to begin with. We must focus on the universal truths of our forefathers,” Ham stated.
John Earl plays “Amazing Grace” on the bagpipes during the Patriot Day 9/11 ceremony at Highland Memorial Park in Ocala on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2024. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2024.
Left to right: Memorial wreaths are laid during the Patriot Day 9/11 ceremony at Highland Memorial Park in Ocala on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2024. Hundreds of motorcyclists ride down the American flag lined driveway during the Patriot Day 9/11 ceremony. An honor guard presents the colors. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2024.
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA
IN RE: ESTATE OF PROBATE
DIVISION
JIMMY NEAL PRICE, File Number: 24CP1970 Deceased. Division:
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the Estate of JIMMY NEAL PRICE, Deceased, whose date of death was November 1, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Marion County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is P.O. Box 1030, Ocala, FL 34478. The names and addresses of the Personal Representative for said Estate and the Attorney for said Personal Representative are respectively set forth below.
All creditors of the Decedent and other persons having claims or demands against the Decedent's Estate upon whom a copy of this Notice is required to be served must file their claims with this Court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
All other creditors of the Decedent and other persons having claims or demands against the Decedent's Estate must file their claims with this Court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.
ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.
NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The Personal Representative or curator has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the Decedent’s death by the Decedent or the Decedent’s surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in Florida Statutes Sections 732.216732.228 applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under Florida Statutes Section 732.2211.
The date of first publication of this Notice is September 6, 2024.
Attorney for Personal Representative: Personal Representative:
BARRY A. DIAMOND, #471770 Jacqueline Fleck LAW OFFICES OF BARRY A. DIAMOND, P.A. 4660 SW 166 th Court Road Coral Springs Professional Campus Ocala, FL 34481 5541 N. University Drive, Suite 103 Coral Springs, Florida 33067 Telephone: (954) 752-5000
IN THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION
CASE NO.: 24CP000297AX
IN RE: ESTATE OF IVETTE S. PETERSON, Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
1. The administration of the Estate of Ivette S. Peterson, deceased, whose date of death was March 15, 2023 , is pending in the Circuit Court for Marion County, Florida, Probate Division; File Number 24CP000297AX ; the address of which is 110 N.W. 1 st Avenue, Ocala, FL 34475. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. The fiduciary lawyer-client privilege in Section 90.5021, Florida Statutes, applies with respect to the personal representative and any attorney employed by the personal representative.
2. All creditors of the decedent and other persons, who have claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmature, contingent or unliquidated claims, and who have been served a copy of this notice, must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
3. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons who have claims or demands against the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE, or as otherwise provided under Section 733.702, Florida Statues. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.
4. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. THE DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE IS September 6, 2024. Attorney for Personal Representative: Juanita Solis, Esq. Jeck, Harris, Raynor & Jones, P.A. 790 Juno Ocean Walk, Suite 600 Juno Beach, FL 33408 Phone: (561) 746-1008 Florida Bar No. 1018205
Personal Representative: Roger W. Peterson 3212 SW 130th Pl. Ocala, FL 34473
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA. IN RE: THE ESTATE OF SANDRA L. BARTLEY, Deceased. CASE NO: 2024-CP-2104 NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The name of the decedent, the designation of the court in which the administration of this estate is pending, and the file number are indicated above. The address of the court is 110 N.W. 1st Avenue, Ocala, FL 34475. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are indicated below. If you have been served with a copy of this notice and you have any claim or demand against the decedent’s estate, even if that claim is unmatured, contingent or unliquidated, you must file your claim with the court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF A DATE THAT IS 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER YOU RECEIVE A COPY OF THIS NOTICE. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons who have claims or demands against the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with the court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.
ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. EVEN IF A CLAIM IS NOT BARRED BY THE LIMITATIONS DESCRIBED ABOVE, ALL CLAIMS WHICH HAVE NOT BEEN FILED WILL BE BARRED TWO YEARS AFTER DECEDENT’S DEATH. The date of death of the decedent is: February 12, 2024. The date of first publication of this Notice is September 6, 2024.
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA. IN RE: THE ESTATE OF DIANE L. LUTHER, Deceased.
CASE NO: 2024-CP-2156 NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The name of the decedent, the designation of the court in which the administration of this estate is pending, and the file number are indicated above. The address of the court is 110 N.W. 1st Avenue, Ocala, FL 34475. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are indicated below. If you have been served with a copy of this notice and you have any claim or demand against the decedent’s estate, even if that claim is unmatured, contingent or unliquidated, you must file your claim with the court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF A DATE THAT IS 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER YOU RECEIVE A COPY OF THIS NOTICE.
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons who have claims or demands against the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with the court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. EVEN IF A CLAIM IS NOT BARRED BY THE LIMITATIONS DESCRIBED ABOVE, ALL CLAIMS WHICH HAVE NOT BEEN FILED WILL BE BARRED TWO YEARS AFTER DECEDENT’S DEATH.
The date of death of the decedent is: August 16, 2024. The date of first publication of this Notice is September 13, 2024.
Attorney for Personal Representative: JOSHUA L. MOSES
Richard & Moses, LLC
Florida Bar No. 119304 808 E Fort King Street Ocala, FL 34471 (352) 369-1300
Primary Email: Josh@RMProbate.com
Personal Representative: KIMBERLY JOHNSON 77 North Hanford Avenue Jamestown, NY 14701
Filing # 205602988 E-Filed 08/27/2024
Public Notice
DIVISION IN RE: ESTATE OF ERICA MARIE BROOKS, Deceased. FILE NO.: 2024-CP-2173 NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of ERICA MARIE BROOKS, deceased, whose date of death was April 21, 2024; is pending in the Circuit Court for Marion County, Florida, Probate Division; File Number 2024-CP-2173 ; the address of which is 110 N.W. 1st Avenue, Ocala, Florida 34475. The names and addresses of the Personal Representative and the Personal Representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons, who have claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, and who have been served a copy of this Note, must file their claims with this Court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons who have claims or demands against the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court, WITHIN THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. THE DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE IS SEPTEMBER 13, 2024.
Personal Representative: CAROLE L. BROOKS 3323 S.E. 132 nd Place Belleview, Florida 34420 Attorney for Personal Representative: DAVIS R. WATSON III Florida Bar No.: 117996 DAVIS R. WATSON III, P.A. 2201 S. E. 30th Avenue Suite 202 Ocala, Florida 34471 (352) 732-8080 Email: davis@daviswatsonlaw.com
07:29:04 AM NOLAND'S ROOFING, INC., a Florida profit corporation, Plaintiff, VS. TAMARA L. GANT A/K/A TAMARA GANT SUMMERSETT A/K/A TAMARA SUMMERSETT, individually, Defendant. IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO: 24-CA-912 TO: NOTICE OF ACTION – CONSTRUCTIVE SERVICE - PROPERTY
TAMARA L. GANT A/K/A TAMARA GANT SUMMERSETT A/K/A TAMARA SUMMERSETT YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action to foreclose a mortgage on the following property in Marion County, Florida: Lot 4, Block 174, MARION OAKS UNIT ONE, according to the Plat thereof as recorded in Plat Book O, Pages 1 through 18, of the Public Records of Marion County, Florida; Parcel #: 8001-0174-04 has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Christopher R. Turner, Esq., the plaintiff's attorney, whose address is Christopher R. Turner, PLLC, 2600 E. Robinson St., Orlando, FL 32803 within thirty (30) days after the first publication of this Notice, and file the original with the clerk of this court either before service on the plaintiff's attorney or immediately thereafter; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint or petition.
DATED on AUGUST 27TH, 2024
GREGORY C. HARRELL
(Name of Clerk) As Clerk of the Court
By: As Deputy Clerk
COURT CLERK OF CO MARION AND COMPTROL
COUNTY FLORIDA
Electronically Filed Marion Case # 24CA000912AX 08/08/2024 11:09:59 AM
NOTICE OF SCHOOL BOARD MEETING
Notice is hereby given that the School Board of Marion County, Florida, will meet on September 24, 2024, at 5:30 p.m., at the School Board Administration Office, 1614 E. Ft. King Street, Ocala, Florida, 34471. An agenda will be published seven days prior to the meeting. The agenda may be obtained at the Administration Office between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. The agenda is also available from a link on the District’s website: www. marion.k12.fl.us.
Persons wishing to address the Board should register with the Chairman prior to 5:40 p.m.
Any person deciding to appeal any decision made by the Board at the meeting will need a record of the proceedings and, for such purpose, may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence on which the appeal is to be based.
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA IN RE: ESTATE OF SUSAN RUTH NORTON PROBATE DIVISION File No. 2024-CP-2072
Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of Susan Ruth Norton, deceased, whose date of death was May 22, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Marion County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 110 NW 1st Ave #1, Ocala, FL 34471. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative's attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. A personal representative or curator has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in sections 732.216-732.228, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under section 732.2211. The date of first publication of this notice is September 13, 2024.
Attorney for Personal Representative: Personal Representative: R. Kevin Sharbaugh, Attorney Florida Bar Number: 86240
DOUGLAS LAW FIRM 117 N. 2nd Street Palatka, FL 32177 Telephone: (386) 530-2955
Fax: (386) 385-5914
E-Mail: Kevin@dhclawyers.com
Secondary E-Mail: AmandaH@ dhclawyers.com
Christine Barber 6643 Cornwall Street Coeur d'Alene, Idaho 83815
Sudoku is played on a grid of 9 x 9 spaces. Within the rows and columns are 9 “squares” (made up of 3 x 3 spaces). Each row, column and square (9 spaces each) needs to be filled out with the numbers 1-9, without repeating any numbers within the same row, column or square.
By Michael Warren
Spotted sandpiper [MichaelWarren.com]
government
SEPTEMBER 16, 23, 30
Marion County Development Review
Office of County Engineer, 412 SE 25th Ave., Building 1, Ocala
9am
The committee reviews and votes on waiver requests to the Land Development Code, major site plans and subdivision plans. The committee meets weekly. See marion.fl.legistar.com/calendar.aspx for agenda and minutes.
SEPTEMBER 17
Marion County Board of County Commissioners
McPherson Governmental Campus Auditorium, 601 SE 25th Ave., Ocala 9am
The commission meets in the morning of the first and third Tuesday of the month. Agendas, minutes and video are available at marionfl.legistar.com/calendar.aspx
SEPTEMBER 17
Ocala City Council
Ocala City Hall, 110 SE Watula Ave., Ocala 4pm
The council meets each first and third Tuesday of the month. Ocala government agendas and minutes are available at ocala.legistar.com/calendar.aspx
SEPTEMBER 17
Belleview City Commission
Belleview City Hall, 5343 SE Abshier Blvd., Belleview
6pm
Meets the first and third Tuesday of the month; agendas, minutes and video available at belleviewfl.org/200/agendas-minutes
community
SEPTEMBER 16
Stearns Speaker Series: “Election 2024: Generational Change in Florida” College of Central Florida, 3001 SW College Road, Ocala 12:30pm to 1:30pm The College of Central Florida Stearns Speaker Series returns with a discussion headlined by Susan MacManus examining the delicate balance of voting power between younger and older generations. Examples of trends in certain key areas among younger voters might be able to predict larger shifts in voting over time. MacManus is a retired distinguished professor of political science at the University of South Florida, with a Ph.D. from Florida State University. To register, visit cf.edu/event/stearns-speaker-series-election-2024-generational-change-in-florida
SEPTEMBER 17-18
Give4Marion Online and in-person
10am on Tue. to 7pm Wed.
This nonprofit fundraiser benefits more than 100 Marion County organizations, serving all communities in areas of need. Nonprofits receive 100% of funds. Donations can be made online at give4marion.org or in-person at various special events held by the Community Foundation for Ocala/ Marion County. Visit ocalafoundation.org or give4marion.org for more information, or email Community Foundation Director of Strategic Engagement Ashley Gerds at ashley@ocalafoundation.org
SEPTEMBER 26
Night Of Hope: Honoring the Victims and Survivors of Domestic Violence College of Central Florida, 3001 SW College Road, Ocala
5:30pm to 8pm
This event features keynote speaker Michael Neely, senior pastor at New Millennium Community Church and an advocate for abuse victims and a survivor of domestic violence. Neely is the author of the book “Black Eyes and Sweet Talk: A Biblical Perspective on Domestic Violence,” which discusses coping techniques for victims based on scripture, from the perspective of a survivor. Visit bit.ly/og-event-night-of-hope or bit.ly/NOH2024 to learn more.
OCTOBER 5
Gentiva Ocala Metro India Fest
Ocala Citizens’ Circle, 151 SE Osceola Ave., Ocala
11:30am to 6pm
This is a free community-wide cross-cultural experience of India, brought to you by the Strategic Community Alliance, featuring a cultural celebration in Downtown Ocala, including a flash-dance mob at the downtown square, trivia competitions, a fashion show, Indian food and beverages, art on display, and activities for kids. This event is free to attend. For more information, visit scacommunities.org/events-news-and-activities
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SEPTEMBER 5 - 22
“Cinderella” at OCT
Ocala Civic Theatre, 4337 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala Showtimes vary
The classic fairy tale has been adapted many times in film, television, literature and more. OCT’s production is based on the 1957 re-imagining of the tale in the musical by Rodgers & Hammerstein. Tickets are $35 for adults/$17 for ages 18 and under and can be purchased online or at the OCT Box Office. Visit bit.ly/oct_cinderella for more information.
SEPTEMBER 21
Pints and Prints
Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala
5:30pm to 7:30pm
Guests 21+ will be able to sample adult beverages and learn more about printmaking, getting to take home their very own block print, gel print and dry point etches. This seminar will E. Marie Fielding and Vanessa Zumba-Gonzalez. ID is required for entry. For pricing and tickets, visit appletonmuseum.org/ events/pints-and-prints
OCTOBER 5
Free First Saturday featuring Art in Spain exhibit
Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala
10 am to 5 pm
Entry to Appleton Museum of Art will be free for all member and non-member patrons, with a special presentation taking a look at the history and evolution of art from Spain. Led by local neurologist and art enthusiast Dr. Jose Gaudier, it will begin at 11 am in the main auditorium. No reservation is required to attend. Learn more at appletonmuseum.org
things to do arts
SEPTEMBER 13
Sit Down for Stand-up
Marion Theatre, 50 S Magnolia Ave., Ocala
7:30pm
This will be an oft-kilter, uncensored, adults only hour-and-a-half of comedy. The theme is “big.” It is headlined by Nik Macik and features Caroline Post, and is hosted by Big Joe Murray. Tickets are $15. For more information, visit reillyartscenter.com/events/sit-down-for-stand-up-sep
SEPTEMBER 14-15
Kingdom of the Sun Concert Band: The Musical World of Disney
Marion Technical Institute, 1614 Fort King St., Ocala 2pm on Sat., 3pm on Sun.
Join The Kingdom of the Sun Concert Band for “The Musical World of Disney,” a family-friendly concert performance of Disney classics. Children are encouraged to wear Disney costumes and join the parade during the “Mickey Mouse March.” Featuring UNIQULELE, the opening act, performing 45 minutes prior to each concert. In partnership with Once Upon a Party, LLC. The event is free to attend. Visit their website at kingdomofthesunband.org
OCTOBER 3
Silent Disco at the NOMA Black Box
NOMA Black Box Theatre, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala
7 to 10pm
Dance to the beat of your own headphones. This event benefits Arts in Health Ocala Metro and the LILAC Foundation. Dance in a glow in the dark setup with shirt graffiti and facepainting, all to the tune of hits from the ‘70s to today. For more information, visit reillyartscenter.com/events/silent-disco
OCTOBER 5
Wear Your Wings 5K
College of Central Florida, 3001 SW College Road, Ocala Registration at 7am
This 5K run and walk benefits the Marion County Children’s Alliance. The first 250 participants to finish will receive a medal. The price to register begins at $30 for adults and $10 for kids, until Sept. 25. Registration and packet pickup will begin at 7 am, with the race scheduled to begin at 8 am. Visit bit.ly/ WearYourWings2024 to sign up.
OCTOBER 11-13
27th Annual Jeeptober Fest
Florida Horse Park, 11851 SW 16th Ave., Ocala
Starts at 8am
This annual get together is one of the largest Jeep-only meets anywhere in the United States. Each day features a full itinerary of special events, from guided tours of the Ocala National Forest to off-roading, along with block parties and vendors. $70 for pre-registration and $80 for day-of. Admission for spectators is $10 per carload, cash only, and a portion of the admission proceeds will be donated to local charities. Visit ocalajeepclub.com/jeeptoberfest for more information.
OCTOBER 17
Fairways, Flamingos & Fun
Stone Creek Golf Club, 11851 SW 16th Ave., Ocala
Check-in at 11am; tee time 12:30pm
Stone Creek Golf Club will host a charity invitational tournament for women golfers benefitting the Susan G. Koman Foundation for breast cancer research. Teams of four compete in a best ball style tournament, wearing pink “flamingo” color golf attire to represent the fight against breast cancer. Teams of four or single players can register. A silent auction, door prizes and other on the course events will raise money to support this cause. To register, go to s5.goeshow.com/dps/FFF2024/index.cfm
OCTOBER 26
Fall Maker’s Market
Cedar Street Boutique, 11875 Cedar St., Dunnellon
9am to 4pm
Sponsored by Grumbles House Antiques and Garden Shop, come see and purchase handmade crafts and other works of art by local artisans, in the lawn of the Cedar Street Boutique store located in downtown Dunnellon. Visit their website at grumbleshouseantiques.com
IFTHESHOE FITS....
Music by Richard Rodgers
Lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II
Book by Douglas Carter Beane
Book by Oscar Hammerstein II
Gasoline Alley
Broom Hilda
Middletons
Crossword
Sudoku
High School Football Coverage is Sponsored By
Trinity Catholic uses big plays to ease past Forest
Celtics earn their first win of the season over the Wildcats.
By Mark Pinson Special to the Ocala Gazette
Trinity Catholic junior quarterback Carter Schofield tossed two touchdown passes and senior running back Austin Holder scored twice to lead the Celtics to a 34-14 win over Forest High on Sept. 6 at Mikey Kelly Stadium.
The game was tied at 14 late in the second quarter before Trinity Catholic scored 20 unanswered points to earn its first victory of the season to improve to 1-2.
The win was extra special for Trinity Catholic head coach John Brantley because the Forest 1974 state championship team, of which Brantley was the starting quarterback, was celebrated and honored at halftime.
“It’s real sweet,” said an emotional Brantley. “Coming back here on our 50th anniversary and seeing my guys and knowing we went undefeated and won a state championship is a special night. But it’s not about me, it’s about these kids who hung in there and stayed with me after some kids left the program. We don’t have great numbers, but this is an over-achieving bunch and they’ve bought in to what we’re teaching them. We’re young and we know we have an uphill battle, but I’m proud of this coaching staff and proud of this team.”
Trinity Catholic took the opening kick and marched smartly down the field, mixing
a strong running game and accurate passing by Schofield.
The drive moved inside the 10yard line, where Holder scored on a six-yard sweep around right end. The extra point by Andrew Leonard was good to give the Celtics a 7-0 lead.
After an exchange of punts, Forest put together a six-play, 46-yard drive with sophomore quarterback Caleb Sanford connecting with Ethan Collins on a 34-yard touchdown pass. The point after by Jack Belcher tied the score at 7 late in the first quarter.
Midway through the second period, Trinity Catholic was backed up at its 10-yard line, but Schofield found sophomore wide receiver Joey DeRiso behind the Forest secondary for a 90-yard touchdown pass. The extra point gave the Celtics a 14-7 lead.
The lead didn’t last long as Forest answered with a 10-play, 65-yard drive capped off with Sanford hitting Desean Freeman on a 16-yard slant pass for a touchdown. The point after tied the score at 14 with 2:36 left in the quarter. Sanford completed 18 of 25 passes for 223 yards, two touchdowns and one interception.
An unsportsmanlike penalty against Forest after the touchdown gave Trinity Catholic great field position at the Wildcats’ 46. The Celtics scored in four plays with junior running back Wyatt Lucas breaking several tackles on his way to a 30-yard scoring
scamper. The extra point gave Trinity Catholic a 21-14 lead at the end of the first half.
Forest, which dropped to 0-3 on the season, went nowhere on its opening possession of the second half and was forced to punt. The Wildcats’ defense forced a Trinity Catholic fumble which was recovered by Cedric Brigham.
Forest moved down the field as Sanford found a bevy of open receivers. The drive stalled and a 35-yard field goal attempt was no good.
Trinity Catholic marched 80 yards in seven plays with Schofield hooking up with DeRiso on a 28-yard scoring strike. The extra point put the Celtics on top by a score of 28-14 with 2:05 left in the third period. Schofield finished 12 of 21 for 221 yards and two touchdowns.
Forest had its next drive stalled by back-to-back sacks by the Trinity Catholic defense. The Celtics sealed the win with a time-consuming drive capped off by Holder’s scoring plunge from a yard out for the final margin of victory. Holder finished with 86 rushing yards and two scores.
“It was a good win for our program,” coach Brantley said. “We’re going to keep working to get better because there’s a lot of football left to be played.”
Trinity Catholic is back on the gridiron on Sept. 12 with a road game at Gainesville Eastside. Forest will look for its first win when the Wildcats host Horizon on Sept. 13.
“Coming back here on our 50th anniversary and seeing my guys and knowing we went undefeated and won a state championship is a special night.”
John
Trinity Catholic’s Devontae Grant (8) tries to intercept a pass intended for Forest’s Lequandre King (7) during a football game at Forest High School in Ocala on Friday, Sept. 6, 2024.
From above: Trinity Catholic’s quarterback Carter Schofield (3) picks his way past Forest defenders. Forest’s Desean Freeman (4) looks for extra yardage as he is wrapped up by Trinity Catholic’s Devontae Grant (8).
Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette
Trinity Catholic’s Austin Holder (6) celebrates his touchdown on Forest with Sean Thornton (17).
Brantley Trinity Catholic Head Coach
