Ocala Gazette | September 25 - October 1, 2020

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SEPTEMBER 25 - OCTOBER 1, 2020

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VOLUME 1 | ISSUE 13

Ex schools No. 2 ousted for misconduct

By Brad Rogers Executive Editor

T

Retired Marine and Purple Heart recipient Cpl. Lewis Alston speaks during the Marion County Veterans POW/MIA recognition day at the Ocala/ Marion County Veterans Memorial Park on Saturday September 19, 2020. Alston is Vietnam veteran. Veterans and family gathered to remember the POW’s and Missing in Action in all our wars both known and unknown. [Alan Youngblood/special to the Ocala Gazette)

‘Not everyone comes home’

Ocalans keep alive the memory of those missing in action

By Bill Thompson Deputy Editor

T

he last U.S. troops officially departed Vietnam in March

1973.

But 47 years later, the Department of Defense reports that 1,586 Americans, almost all troops but including a few civilians, remain unaccounted for. Among them are 54 Floridians, although none are from Marion County.

The Defense POW/ MIA Accounting Agency, or DPAA, classifies them in one of three ways: as prisoners of war whose bodies were not recovered, killed in action and their remains were not returned, or missing in action and presumed dead. About a dozen of them are described in records as civilians who simply went “missing.”

Last Saturday, Ocala joined communities around the country to honor these absent souls and their sacrifice on National POW/MIA Recognition Day. The annual commemoration, which began in 1979, has been

marked on the third Friday of every September since 1986.

Although unaccountedfor troops in Vietnam were the impetus for this moment of recognition, the DPAA notes that it also is set aside to recall tens of thousands of soldiers from other wars whose fate is unknown.

That includes more than 73,000 from World War II, nearly 7,900 from the Korean War, 126 veterans of the Cold War and six from other conflicts since 1991. More than 41,000 of them were presumed lost at sea.

At the Ocala/Marion County Veterans Memorial Park on Saturday, a small crowd of elected officials, veterans and others from the

47 years after departing Vietnam, 1,586 Americans remain unaccounted for.

veterans community and local residents gathered to pay tribute to them.

“There are still far too many of our brave service members who remain unaccounted for, and we must keep them in our hearts and our prayers.

And we also must keep their families in our hearts and our prayers,” County Commission Chairwoman Kathy Bryant said in opening the ceremony.

Lewis Alston, a former U.S. Marine who served in Vietnam and who delivered the invocation on Saturday, recalled going on missions to find missing comrades after a POW “sighting” was reported.

“It could be a month old, a week old. But we were able to go out to try to bring our brothers home. And it was always sad, because they had been moved by the time we got there,” he said.

“This is what it’s about: Never forget.”

Another speaker, Dorothy Antonelli, whose uncle went missing in action in November 1950 while fighting in North Korea, noted that “one of the worst tragedies of war is that some

soldiers simply become missing.” She recalled that her grandmother lived to 89 and never knew what happened to her only son.

“Today we remember that even when war ends, not everyone comes home,” Antonelli said.

“Their loved ones both mourn and hope. The years drag on and the long wait for answers can become intolerable. What could be worse than the emotional turmoil of not knowing?”

“Freedom is not free.

It comes with a price,” Antonelli added. “Let us never forget our prisoners of war and those missing in action who paid the price. We owe a debt of gratitude to their families -- whose loved ones didn’t come home.”

In closing Saturday’s event County Commissioner David Moore said we also must remember those veterans who remain “captive” to the “horrible things” they have experienced in defending our nation overseas.

In an interview on Monday, Pam Cain, the Florida state cocoordinator of the

he former No.2 person in Marion County Public Schools, Jonathan Grantham, has resigned under pressure after an internal investigation found he used school district employees, equipment and materials for his personal benefit.

The investigation into Grantham’s conduct started in June while former Superintendent of Schools Heidi Maier, Grantham’s boss for four years, was still superintendent.

Grantham’s resignation is formally effective Dec. 2, 2020, but he was relieved of his duties on Sept. 14 and will be using vacation and sick time until December, school district correspondence shows.

While Maier was superintendent from 2016 to June of this year, Grantham served as deputy superintendent for instruction. After Maier departed, he was reassigned and worked as a district program specialist but had been applying for superintendent jobs elsewhere.

Investigators talked to 12 witnesses over the course of their three-month investigation, many of them top school district administrators along with secretarial staff who worked for Grantham. Investigators say their inquiry revealed a pattern of misconduct by Grantham that violated school district and state ethics codes as well as violations of the school district’s email policies.

“The investigative findings revealed multiple instances that Dr. Jonathan Grantham had solicited and accepted benefits of value from Marion County School Board employees,” the 30-page investigative report states.

Grantham told investigators Maier gave him permission to use school resources but produced no witnesses or documentation to support his claim.

See Grantham, page 8

See POW/MIA, page 5

Marion, state jobless rates plunge, signaling ‘rebounding economy’ Staff Report

O

cala/Marion County’s unemployment rate went in the right direction last month – down.

According to a recent report by CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion, or CLM, the state’s regional employment agency, Marion County’s jobless rate in August was 6.3 percent, down three full percentage points from July.

The workforce in the Ocala Metropolitan Statistical Area, which covers all of Marion County, grew by 1.4 percent from July to August. That made the Ocala MSA the third fastest-growing metro area in the state.

Meanwhile, Florida’s statewide unemployment rate was 7.7 percent, down from 11.6 percent in July.

Rusty Skinner, chief executive officer for CareerSource CLM, said in a statement that the report shows “positive signs of a rebounding economy.”

Marion County’s labor pool added 1,762 people in August, for a total of 139,263. The number of county residents with jobs increased by 5,789 to 130,482, while the number of unemployed fell by 4,027 to 8,781.

“These are very positive signs for our area’s workforce,” Skinner noted. “Businesses are either filling vacancies through rehiring or hiring new employees. While we still have too many residents that are without

jobs, they should be encouraged by these statistics.”

According to CareerSource CLM, non-farm employment in Marion County was 106,400, with significant gains in the following sectors: • Compared to all metro areas in Florida, the Ocala MSA boasted both the fastest annual job growth rate, 3.8 percent, and the highest annual job growth, by adding 500 jobs in August, in the leisure and hospitality industry.

• Meanwhile, the Ocala MSA tied for the second highest annual job growth among metro areas in trade, transportation and utilities, adding 300 jobs. That also translated to the third

highest job-growth rate, 1.2 percent, within that group.

• Finally, the Ocala MSA recorded the third fastest annual job-growth rate in mining, logging and construction at 7.0 percent, adding 600 jobs.

CareerSource CLM noted that all 67 counties saw “significant” declines in their respective jobless rates.

Marion County tied with Sarasota County for the 39th lowest unemployment rate in the state. Comparatively, Lafayette County was lowest in the state, at 3.4 percent, while the highest rate was found in Osceola County, 15.1 percent.

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SEPTEMBER 25 - OCTOBER 1, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE

City of Ocala names new Recreation and Parks director Staff Report

F

ollowing a nationwide search, the City of Ocala named Preston Pooser its new director of Recreation and Parks in August.

Pooser, whose first day on the job was Sept. 8, is responsible for a department of 65 employees and operations that include management of parks operations and maintenance, the central business district maintenance, recreation and aquatic facilities and programming, event services, golf, tennis and other sports facilities, and cultural arts and sciences facilities and programs.

Pooser, according to city officials, brings 30 years of experience in parks and recreation, including the past year and a half as Parks and Recreation director for the City of Deerfield Beach.

He has also worked in Woodstock, Georgia; Orange Beach, Alabama; and Laurel, Mississippi. He is a Certified Parks and Recreation Executive (CPRE) through the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA).

“Joining the City of Ocala and meeting the leaders and employees of this organization has been a tremendous honor,” Pooser said. “I am grateful for the opportunity to join this group of individuals who work so hard to serve the

community. As the director of this department, I look forward to carrying out the Recreation and Parks vision for the future, leading with responsiveness, and working collectively with my peers.

“The City of Ocala has an outstanding Recreation and Parks Department and I’m looking forward to leading it into the future,” he added.

Pooser is a 1985 graduate of Winter Haven High School. He attended Oklahoma State University, earning a bachelor of science degree in recreation management in 1990. In his spare time, Pooser enjoys spending time with his wife, Kathi, and fishing.

Together, they have four

children - Hunter, Aaron, Beth and Mackenzie and have recently welcomed a newborn grandson named Weston to the family.

Pooser replaces Kathy Crile, who is retiring after 32 years with the city, the last 12 as Recreation and Parks director.

Crile plans to remain active Photo courtesy of City of Ocala within her community and to to advocate for recreation, be supportive of parks, heritage and the city that has shaped and cultural arts services in challenged her over the past the community and to be a three decades. citizen resource,” Crile said.

“I expect to continue

Teachers give School Board an earful about online instruction

By Brad Rogers Executive Editor

T

wo middle school civics teachers told the Marion County School Board Tuesday night that its online instructional platform is failing, and so are most of their students enrolled in MCSPOnline.

Terry Kinder, who last week had an open letter to the School Board addressing the technology problems published in the Gazette, told board members that both teachers and students are failing because they spend so much class time dealing with technology issues.

“I work really hard to try and make my kids understand our content, and I’ve never felt like more of a failure,” said Kinder, who is a civics teacher at Belleview Middle School.

The 2014 Golden Apple nominee said she spends more than half of her 110-minute classes addressing technology issues. The result, she said, is that 50 percent of her online student are currently failing – and that is after she has had make-up days to help the students catch up with work they have missed.

She said in a normal school year, about four of her students fail.

“This method is not working for my students,” she lamented, adding that her online classes move “at half the pace of in-person classes.”

Kinder suggested the board place an IT support person in each school, although she acknowledged it was “a big ask.” As for the existing tech support line that the school system provides to students and parents, she said, “Our students and their parents do not find the tech support line as helpful as you think. I know this because they tell me in my meetings, usually with a few explicit terms thrown in.”

School Board Chairman the Rev. Eric Cummings kept Kinder at the podium while he addressed her concerns. He explained that he had spent a number of days sitting on the student side of the computer as well as several more days observing from the teachers’ side.

“I’m telling you, I’ve done this for three or four days and it’s very frustrating,” he said.

Cummings said he

“I work really hard to try and make my kids understand our content, and I’ve never felt like more of a failure.”

-Terry Kinder watched one teacher try to teach students a worksheet with five or six questions and it took 40 minutes because of the repeated technology issues.

Sometimes, he added, the program would kick a student out, and they either could not get back online or simply did not sign back on.

A second Belleview Middle civics teacher, Cheryl Lindstrom, spoke to the board after Linder.

Lindstrom addressed the problems MCPSOnline poses to testing because teachers have no way of seeing all their students or what they are doing at home while being tested.

Lindstrom echoed Kinder’s assessment that teachers spend “the majority of our time” dealing with the technology issues or online textbook issues, but her bigger point was that all county assessment tests should be suspended until school returns to normal.

“Secure online testing is an oxymoron,” she said, adding that a teacher does not know what other devices a student is accessing while being tested. “It’s not a secure platform … All of this is absurd. How can we do this? The data won’t be valid.”

“I wonder why we are doing any county testing in a pandemic. What data do you need? A baseline for where students are? How much learning was lost (at the end of last year)?

Teachers already know.”

Cummings was vocal about the need to get teachers support and relief.

“I promise you, I am hearing the same concerns at other schools,” he said.

Superintendent of Schools Diane Gullett she is “not satisfied we have solved all the issues” and said she was planning to establish a task force of

teachers and IT personnel to get the kinks out of the platform. She asked Kinder to serve on that committee.

Board members praised Kinder and Lindstrom for “being brave” and appearing before them to express their concerns saying they cannot address problems in the schools if teachers will not step forward.

“You being here is helping us create the new pathway forward,” board member Nancy Thrower said.

Board member Kelly King said she found Kinder’s 50 percent failure rate “alarming,” to which Kinder replied, “It’s alarming to me, too. I cry daily.”

In addition to the task force, Gullett said she planned to do a survey of teachers to get their suggestions for fixing the problems. Cummings quickly jumped in and told the superintendent he did not want the survey to be online – because teachers, he said, would not be as candid – and asked that suggestion boxes be set up in each school where teachers could submit written suggestions anonymously, if they want.

Property tax rate holds fast as County Commission wraps up 2021 budget

By Bill Thompson Deputy Editor Marion County commissioners followed through on an earlier promise to keep the property tax rate steady.

On Sept. 17, the board finalized its fiscal year 2021 budget by adopting a base rate of $4.42 per $1,000 of taxable value.

All property owners countywide pay that. It means the owner of a home valued at $100,000 for tax purposes would pay $442.

The board also held constant the rates applied by the various special tax districts under its jurisdiction.

That includes those that are paid by all residents of unincorporated Marion County, such as the one that funds the Sheriff ’s Office budget. It also includes those that affect only specific communities, such as Marion Oaks, Silver Springs Shores and Rainbow Lakes Estates.

The commission’s decision does not apply to the cities around the

county nor to other taxing authorities, such as the School Board or the state water management districts.

Yet despite the commission’s commitment to maintain the status quo, many, if not most, homeowners still might see higher tax bills. That’s because of increasing property values.

The overall value of property throughout Marion County jumped 7.8 percent this year. The rates of increase can vary by where people live in the

county, though.

The county’s 2021 spending plan totals $833 million, which includes those special tax districts.

The hearing was also the last budget meeting for Clerk of the Court David Ellspermann, Commissioner David Moore and longtime county Budget Director Michael Tomich.

Ellspermann, a Republican, is retiring after 24 years as court clerk and county comptroller.

Sheriff Billy Woods attended the meeting to help the commission

recognize Ellspermann.

Woods made him an honorary Marion County deputy. That was in recognition of Ellspermann’s early work as a police officer.

Clerk-elect Greg Harrell, also a Republican, will take over for him in January.

Moore leaves the board in November after serving two terms. He lost the GOP primary for county property appraiser last month.

Tomich also is retiring, effective Sept. 30, after 29 years of managing the county’s budget.

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SEPTEMBER 25 - OCTOBER 1, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE

Commentary “Our liberty depends on the freedom of the press, and that cannot be limited without being lost.”

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Our mission is to inform and uplift our readers by reporting on the events, issues and stories that shape Ocala with accuracy, fairness and passion.

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Online instruction is failing, and that is not an option

By Brad Rogers Executive Editor

M

aybe what was so remarkable about two teachers’ concerns voiced to the Marion County School Board Tuesday night about online education was that the board found their comments, well, so remarkable.

Terry Kinder and Cheryl Lindstrom appeared before the School Board to talk about their daily frustrations with MCPSOnline. MCPSOnline is the school system’s computer-based instructional platform that about 30 percent of the county’s 43,000 public school students have opted to use as we grind on through the coronavirus pandemic.

(Disclosure: I know Kinder and Lindstrom because they work at the same school as my wife, who is a veteran classroom teacher of more than two decades.)

What these women told the board is that the Microsoft Teams platform the school system is using doesn’t work. They cannot see most of their students when an online class is in session. They spend half their time trying to address technology issues, and when they are not playing IT support person, they are struggling to take roll, communicate with students and get assignments made and collected.

Kinder, a 2014 Golden Apple teacher, told the board that because of the technology problems with Microsoft Teams, half of her students have F’s halfway through the first nine-week grading period.

“I believe these technology issues have been the main reason why I currently have 50 percent of my online students with an F and 5 more percent with a D in my classes,” Kinder said.

She would later say, “I work really hard to try to make my kids understand our content, and I’ve never felt like more of a failure.”

The board was struck by Kinder’s comments. School Board member Kelly King, a former

teacher, called it “alarming” that 50 percent of Kinder’s students are failing.

“It’s alarming to me, too,” Kinder responded. “I cry daily.”

Imagine, a Golden Apple teacher being reduced to tears every day because the tools she’s been given to educate our children just flat don’t work.

Lindstrom, for her part, echoed Kinder’s assessment of the online technology and asked the board to stop county assessment tests – those above and beyond the routine individual course tests – because there is no way to ensure remote students are not cheating.

“Secure online testing is an oxymoron,” Lindstrom told the board. “… The data won’t be valid.”

To the board’s credit, they were empathetic and seemed appreciative that the two teachers had “shown courage” by coming before them.

Board Chairman the Rev. Eric Cummings was most responsive, noting that he had spent days sitting with students, and then teachers, watching how MCPSOnline works.

His critique: “I’ve done this for three or four days (with teachers) and it’s very frustrating.”

Superintendent of Schools Diane Gullett acknowledged the platform’s flaws -- “It does present a lot of challenges, we know that” -- and said she was forming a task force to identify solutions. She is also planning to survey teachers to get their ideas for improving the broken platform.

Yet, one has to wonder how we can be a month into the school year and every teacher, student and parent using MCPSOnline is fully aware of the stupefying inadequacy of the online instruction but the School Board seems caught off guard by two teachers’ comments.

I know I’m a teacher’s spouse, so I am clearly not unbiased. But come on. The school district has asked our teachers to be custodians, requiring them to clean every desk and chair after every class.

They have turned classrooms into mini cafeterias to minimize crowd gathering, so teachers get to be bus

boys too. Now, they saddle them with an inoperable online platform that does not work – which, in fact, is leading to quantifiable failure – and their response is thank yous and a task force. When will that task force meet and when will it offer some solutions? Just asking.

Getting MCPSOnline working right -- and right now -- should be the top priority of the School Board. The educational progress of nearly a third of our children is at stake. Take some of the $13 million in Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act money the school district received and bring in whatever expertise is needed to get MCPSOnline working right.

That board members went on and on about how wonderful it was to hear honest, unfiltered opinions from two teachers should tell them something about the culture in the Marion County Public Schools. Teachers don’t express their opinions about what’s wrong – no matter how disastrous -- with our schools because they fear retribution. It’s a fact, a longrunning fact. Here’s a chance to show teachers their opinions and concerns are taken seriously.

Almost one-third of our public school students are attending school online this year. As Kinder and Lindstrom noted Tuesday night, the School Board and the administration should have known online instruction in Marion County was problematic at the end of last school year, when the last three months were essentially lost, instructionally speaking. Now, here we are. After a summer to prepare our online instruction, it may actually be worse than it was then.

The School Board and Gullett need to get on this and help these teachers and students out. When our best and brightest teachers are being reduced to tears on a daily basis because their employer cannot provide them the basic tools to teach effectively, and half the online students are failing, it is not just the computer program that is failing.

Our school system is failing as well.

Ocala firm to join Covid-19 fight Artemis Plastics will manufacture millions of test kits here Staff Report

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n Ocala company will open a new plant and begin manufacturing up to 1 million COVID-19 test kits each month.

Ocala’s Artemis Plastics, which has an existing plant at 2811 NE 14th St., recently announced that it will open a new 30,000-squarefoot manufacturing plant in the Ocala International Commerce Park, at 4901 N.W. Fifth St. County property records show the property sold for $1.75 million. The company’s CEO, Gary Mishkin, said the firm expects to create 100 new jobs.

“They already have one facility here, and it’s been a great experience,” said Kevin Sheilley, president and CEO of the

[Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2020

Ocala/Marion County Chamber & Economic Partnership.

The new plant initially will manufacture 1 million COVID-19 test kits each month, but the company’s goal is to ramp up to where it is producing 1 million test kits per week. And while manufacturing new COVID-19 test kits will be the

initial focus of the plant, it also will manufacture other medical devices that will keep the plant busy into the future.

“This isn’t a short-term thing,” Sheilley said. “It’s a long-term thing for them.”

Artemis Plastics will manage injection molding, assembly, pouching and distribution of the test kits

manufactured at the new location.

Established in 2014, Artemis specializes in the production and assembly of injection molded plastic components, serving domestic and international medical, industrial, and consumer markets.

“One of the primary goals of the CEP and local leadership

is to build a diverse, robust local economy,” said Angie Lewis, CEP board chair. “Artemis is already a great corporate citizen, and the addition of this second facility focused on manufacturing medical products, especially to fight this pandemic, just further advances the goals of our community.”

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SEPTEMBER 25 - OCTOBER 1, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE

Cammack seeks to shrink ‘big government’

By Bill Thompson Deputy Editor

L

ast month Kat Cammack overcame nine other Republican candidates to earn a shot at becoming North Central Florida’s newest congressional representative.

To reach Capitol Hill, though, she must clear one more hurdle on Nov. 3: Democrat Adam Christensen.

To do that, Cammack said she is banking on her experience with national politics. But she also intends to highlight the problems of a centralized government grown too big, too intrusive and too costly – the same issues that led her into politics nearly a decade ago to help the man she now hopes to succeed, her former boss, Republican U.S. Rep. Ted Yoho.

“This was the time -- if there ever was a time -- to take the leap and really try to get our country back on track, to course correct, and for me to give a voice to young conservatives across the country, because that is something that is lacking,” Cammack explained in a recent interview.

“It’s disheartening where we’re at as a country.

I had a very personal experience with the failures of big government. I have the energy and now the working know-how to get things done on day one,” she added. “I have a unique motivator. That’s why it’s

so important that I stay involved and I go after this and make sure that we can get our country back on track, because I feel like we’re at that turning point.”

Cammack, 32, of Gainesville, was referring to the Home Affordable Mortgage Program, an Obama administration initiative announced in 2009. It was designed to help financially troubled homeowners rework their mortgages. Instead, as The Intercept put it in a 2015 article, HAMP, as it was known, “became a predatory lending scheme rather than an aid program,” one that rewarded foreclosure actions by mortgage providers.

Cammack said her family’s experience with HAMP left them temporarily homeless after a foreclosure action. But it also led to working for Yoho, a favorite of local Tea Party activists. Yoho upset 12-term GOP Congressman Cliff Stearns of Ocala in 2012. Yoho announced earlier this year that was leaving Congress to fulfill a campaign pledge to serve only four terms.

Cammack touts her experience as a longtime senior adviser to Yoho.

She notes that economic development projects and veterans’ priorities were among the key issues she worked on during that time. Today, she serves as vice president of The Grit Foundation, a Gainesvillebased nonprofit serving first-responders in the

region.

Cammack said reining in the federal government’s “unsustainable” spending is her main priority.

“What we need to do,” she said, “is have the adult conversation about our spending and get our national debt under control.”

Cammack said that would help resolve so many other issues Washington struggles with.

Beyond that, she wants to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education, and return education policy to the states.

She also supports fixing America’s “crumbling” infrastructure, such as roads. But COVID-19 has shown the need for reliable internet connectivity.

So, within the 3rd Congressional District, improving that would be one of her top priorities.

“Access to reliable high-speed internet in this district was few and far between,” said Cammack.

“Now, more than ever, if we’re going to compete, we have got to have the infrastructure in place, and I think there are some private-sector solutions that we can work with to help facilitate that.”

Reforming health care, however, also ranks high on Cammack’s list.

“I shudder at the word ‘comprehensive,’” Cammack said. “There are a number of things that we could be doing to ease the burden that health care has become on our society.”

To achieve that, she

would push ideas such as tort reform, pursuing negotiations for lower drug costs, allowing insurers to sell policies across state lines and minimizing the role of insurers in the doctor-patient relationship.

As for Marion County specifically, Cammack noted that while on Yoho’s staff, she worked with the Ocala/Marion County Chamber and Economic Partnership on jobcreation programs and with local leaders on healthcare projects for veterans. If elected, Cammack said she

would be excited to back programs assisting young entrepreneurs in starting businesses.

“That institutional knowledge is going to be helpful in January and beyond because we’re not going to have to start from scratch,” she said.

“The overarching message is that my goal is to rein in government, and give as much back to the states as humanly possible, and really break that stranglehold that government has on the American people.”

Photo provided by Kat Cammack’s campaign

Christensen aims to revitalize rural Florida

By Bill Thompson Deputy Editor

L

ast month Adam Christensen narrowly survived a threecandidate race to become the Democratic Party’s nominee in the 3rd Congressional District.

Now, to earn a trip to Washington, he must overcome Republican Kat Cammack on Nov. 3.

If he becomes the successor to Rep. Ted Yoho, a Gainesville Republican who is leaving office to fulfill a pledge to serve only four terms, Christensen would be the first Democrat to represent North Central Florida in Congress since Buddy MacKay, who lost a reelection bid in 1988.

To make that happen, Christensen, the youngest Democratic congressional candidate in the country, said he seeks to restore the vitality that has been drained from many small towns – like those in Indiana where he grew up, areas of Iowa where his grandparents live, and in the 3rd District, which encompasses rural areas from Ocala to the Jacksonville suburbs.

Christensen, 26, of Gainesville, said in a recent interview his campaign is shaped by those family experiences, as well as his own venture as an entrepreneur.

Christensen came to Gainesville to start a company in the downtown business incubator. His firm tests the purity

of essential oils and fragrances shipped by international suppliers, including some of the world’s biggest companies, to small retailers. He later branched out to also test those products for safety.

One thing he has detected, he said, is a system fraught with fraud.

But for Christensen, learning that things really aren’t what they claim to be also applied to launching a business – meaning he discovered a hidden philosophy of start-ups: attract investors, inflate the company’s value to get more investment flowing, and then sell before things collapse.

“That is not the way my family has always done things. That was not the way I was taught that sustainable businesses and sustainable economies work,” he said. “I realized that most of the reason you actually make it is distribution, marketing and branding. It’s never the product. For me, that’s not a world that is sustainable.”

One reason new companies behave as they do, said Christensen, is that many cannot afford benefits for employees, especially health insurance.

That’s why he supports Medicare for All. “I realized you get to a certain point as a startup and you sell because you can’t afford to hire people, you can’t afford to go recruit people, because nobody’s going to leave their crappy job where they have OK insurance,” Christensen said.

“That absolutely has

killed small businesses.”

Christensen said Medicare for All, the healthcare system championed by Sen. Bernie Sanders, would address that by axing the “middle man”: health insurance companies.

“It would be a huge benefit to small businesses,” he said. “They would be able to compete against a lot larger people.

You’re going to have security and safety, even if you’re working at a startup. It allows people to actually take a risk.”

On a different healthcare front, Christensen would advocate negotiating with drugmakers to reduce prescription drug costs, and end “price-fixing” in the industry.

Christensen also wants programs for new jobs.

One idea he offers is a federally created agency, modeled after the Tennessee Valley Authority, that would develop a high-speed rail system to eventually serve the entire state, and create a highspeed internet system to serve rural areas.

Christensen also would expand the Gainesville airport to entice new passenger carriers and logistics companies. And he wants to plant more of the incubator initiatives, such as the one that drew him to Gainesville, in each county in the 3rd District, including Marion.

He maintained that expanding the airport, spreading broadband service and helping

entrepreneurs would bring investors to the region and allow new business owners to stay in their communities.

“The goal of it is to get the money flowing in, and stop it from flowing out, as it has for years,” Christensen said. “I want to actually bring back the spirit of this area, which is a spirit of small businesses, small towns, entrepreneurship, actually creating sustainable things.”

One other key issue for Christensen is universal, taxpayer-funded child care, such as Canada has. He

said that would equate to a middle-class tax cut of thousands of dollars.

“Those three things would change life dramatically for everyone,” he said.

They also tie into his campaign’s main message, he said.

“This isn’t the government coming to do anything for you,” Christensen added. “This is us simply saying, ‘Hey, this how we actually create a better community.’

It’s about giving people the ability to have the American dream back.”

Photo provided by Adam Christensen’s campaign

5

SEPTEMBER 25 - OCTOBER 1, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE From POW/MIA, page 1 National League of POW/ MIA Families, said she understands the pain alluded to by speakers in Ocala on Saturday. Her father, U.S. Air Force Col. Oscar Mauterer, has never been accounted for after being listed as missing in action in Laos in February 1966.

Cain said that remained his official status for more than a decade. It was changed after congressional hearings on MIA soldiers, even though the Pentagon had found no evidence to clarify his standing one way or the other.

Trying to resolve that question, she said, is what motivated her to join the League. “I live with hope (for an answer) every day,” said Cain, a Sarasota resident. “Sometimes that’s what sustains me.”

Cain said others should consider joining the League to support the effort to

bring closure to as many of these cases as possible.

Cain noted that limits exist. The nation likely will never resolve all cases of “deep-water” casualties at sea.

But, she added, “We want the fullest possible accounting, and to do everything we possibly can in the short time we have left,” as witnesses and evidence of what happened to these troops gradually fade.

Another reason to support this cause is that the future matters as well.

“To our group, that’s what this day means,” she said of POW/MIA Recognition Day. “To make sure that the American public knows that, yes, a lot of money is being spent (to find answers), but it’s also a message to today’s military and tomorrow’s military that nobody will be left behind.”

Veterans and their families listen during the Marion County Veterans POW/ MIA recognition day. [Alan Youngblood/special to the Ocala Gazette]

Ken S. Sarsony plays taps during the Marion County Veterans POW/MIA recognition day. [Alan Youngblood/special to the Ocala Gazette]

Marion County Veteran Service Director Jeffrey Askew salutes the flag during the Marion County Veterans POW/MIA recognition day. [Alan Youngblood/special to the Ocala Gazette]

Daniel L. Hightower, P.A.

Fighting For Accident Victim Justice Since 1976

Open every Saturday Rain or Shine 9am to 2pm Lots of vendors to shop from! www.OcalaDowntownMarket.com Motor Vehicle Crashes • Work Accidents Personal Injury • Wrongful Death Social Security/Disability Office Ocala: (352) 629-7777 Case Results @ DanHightower.com

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SEPTEMBER 25 - OCTOBER 1, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE

Has your business been negatively impacted by COVID-19?

Loan, Grant, and Training Funds for Marion County Businesses Marion County wants to ensure that every business continues to grow through the COVID-19 pandemic. Thanks to an allocation of the County’s CARES Act Fund, assistance programs are now available for businesses of all sizes. Every business should be committed to keeping employees safe.

Bridge to Recovery Program The Small Business Assistance Program seeks to assist businesses with 25 or fewer employees who have been experiencing continuing negative impacts as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The business will need to submit an online application demonstrating the negative impact of COVID-19 and will be able to receive up to $15,000. The business will be expected to maintain the same number of employees. The company will report quarterly on their status for a period of 1-year.

Moving Forward Program The Business Assistance Program seeks to assist businesses with 26-100 employees who have been experiencing continuing negative impacts as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The business will need to submit an online application demonstrating the negative impact of COVID-19 and will be able to receive up to $40,000. The business will be expected to maintain the same number of employees. The company will report quarterly on their status for a period of 1-year.

Testing Capacity Enhancement Reimbursement Grant Private labs, clinics, and physician offices can apply to be reimbursed for the purchase of equipment, testing supplies, additional space, etc. to expand their testing capabilities.

Project Operating Safely (PPE Reimbursement Program) Project Operating Safely will provide up to $3,000 in reimbursements to local businesses with fewer than 100 employees and up to $10,000 for businesses with more than 100 employees for the purchase of necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) and other health and safety-related items and services. Businesses may apply once for a reimbursement and funds will be allocated on a first come, first serve basis.

Find out how your business can access funds and submit an application at

MovingBizForward.com

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SEPTEMBER 25 - OCTOBER 1, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE

Local hospital develops ‘ground-breaking’ COVID-19 treatment

By Brad Rogers Executive Editor

I

t’s not a cure. It’s not a vaccine.

But what the medical professionals at AdventHealth Ocala say they have developed is a “groundbreaking” drug cocktail that is saving the lives of COVID-19 victims at a remarkable rate.

What the AdventHealth Ocala team has developed over the past several months is a drug cocktail that they say has proven to be 96 percent effective in keeping coronavirus patients out of the intensive care unit and off ventilators.

Led by Director of Pharmacy Dr. Carlette Norwood-Williams, the research started in April when the drug remdesivir, an anti-viral drug used to treat the virus, became scarce.

Norwood-Williams began experimenting to find an alternative.

Norwood-Williams took various medications and tested them on coronavirus patients. What she came up with was what she and her team are calling ICAM, a mixture of commonly prescribed drugs that has proven immensely successful with the 113 patients who have been treated with the cocktail at AdventHealth Ocala.

Of the 113 people so far treated with ICAM, 96.4 percent have recovered without requiring intensive care or a ventilator. That, AdventHealth Ocala Emergency Room Director Ken Barrick said, is significantly better than other protocols that have been available so far.

And, he added, those who were treated at AdventHealth Ocala were all hospitalized.

“The patients who were treated were hospitalized,” she said.

“They were the sick people. They required hospitalization.”

Norwood-Williams said she kept trying different combinations of drugs to determine which ones were most effective by measuring “inflammatory markers.” She and Barrick explained that when a virus attacks the body, it causes inflammation, and the AdventHealth team simply watched to see which drugs reduced the inflammation markers.

“What I did was create a tool that looks at the inflammation markers as a group,” Norwood-Williams said. “Three or four weeks in I found a combination that showed consistent improvement.”

The drugs that make up the cocktail are nothing special, Norwood-Williams said. They are all drugs that are commonly available, and she is more than happy to share the recipe: I = Immune support: vitamin C and zinc C = Corticosteroid: Methylprednisolone A = Anticoagulant: Enpxaparin M = Macrolide: Azithromycin So, in short, the cocktail provides immune system support, a steroid to reduce inflammation, a blood coagulant because blood clots are common in COVIC-19 patients and an antibiotic.

So far, Advent Health Ocala has treated more than 300 virus patients overall. Of those, 113 have been treated with ICAM, with the 96 percent success rate that is attracting attention to the local hospital.

“That is a significantly impressive number when you look at other experimental protocols currently in trial,” Barrick said.

Norwood-Williams said the next steps include trying ICAM on outpatients, those who test positive for COVID-19 but do not require hospitalization and publishing a research paper “in a prominent medical journal.” It already has been received by a study investigative review board to ensure patient safety and privacy, and “ICAM demonstrated a huge advantage,” Barrick said.

The plan for the outpatient study is to treat 100 people who are positive with ICAM and follow their progress with blood tests and, ultimately, another COVID-19 test.

“I believe the outpatient study will show even more benefit,” Barrick said.

Barrick said, like the drugs being used, the theory behind the ICAM treatment is common too – just give the patient the right combination of drugs that will help the body to better fight the virus.

“It enables your own immune system to do what it is designed to do,” he said. “We have to support the immune system.”

“This is successful,” he added. “We know it. We don’t doubt it.

We’re moving on to outpatient now.”

Norwood-Williams’ pride in her ICAM work is evident.

“ICAM does nothing truly to defeat coronavirus, but it does everything to present a strategy of super defense of the body from coronavirus,” she said.

“So that’s a primary difference (from other protocols).

“These are medications that have been on the market for a very long time, some as old as 1955.

Generic medications, but they work together to defend the body against the coronavirus infection.”

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AdventHealth Ocala has developed a treatment for sick coronavirus patients that so far is showing a 96 percent success rate. The research was led by AdventHealth Ocala Director of Pharmacy Carlette Norwood-Williams, left, and ER Medical Director Dr. Ken Barrick. (Photo courtesy of AdventHealth Ocala)

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SEPTEMBER 25 - OCTOBER 1, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE From Grantham, page 1

Join the Marion County 4-H Garden Army!

Get Started!

All youth ages 5-18 in Marion County are welcome to participate Participants will receive seeds to start their fall garden, while supplies last Personalized learning for youth 4-H Project Book

Timeline September 28: Orientation & Pick Up Kits November: Garden Judging December: Produce Showcase & Record Books Due

Contact Emma Cannon 4-H Youth Development Extension Agent emmacannon@ufl.edu or 352-671-8400

How to Register Register using this link or the QR code.

Among the instances where Grantham is accused of using his position to get employees to do work for him were: • Getting his assistant to plan a baby shower for his new wife, utilizing Marion Technical College facilities, staff and materials for the event.

• Using his secretaries to prepare class materials and using school system paper and copiers — as well as Marion Technical Institute classrooms — for classes he taught for National Louis University as an adjunct professor.

• Soliciting help from administrators who worked for him in moving to new homes – twice – using school email.

• Asking those same administrators for help preparing his lakeside home for his wedding.

• Asking his secretaries to pick his children up from school on numerous occasions and running other personal errands, like picking up his dry cleaning during school work hours.

• Getting the MTC hospitality manager to cater his wedding at

a greatly reduced cost and using MTC tables and chairs, which were moved to and from the wedding venue using a school district truck and school staff during work hours.

• Getting the school district’s facilities chief to print large-scale house plans on multiple occasions.

The investigation was conducted by Dwana Gary, district director of equity and ethics, and school district Special Investigator Tyson Collins.

Photo courtesy of Marion County Public Schools

Ride to end Alzheimer’s kicks off in Ocala Staff Report

H

orseback riding enthusiasts from Ocala and around the United States officially begin their Ride for the Cure this week to raise money for Alzheimer’s research.

The fundraising period begins Sept. 26 and concludes Oct. 10.

In Florida, riders from Citra, Dunnellon, New Port Richey, Ocala, The Villages and other communities will ride trails in their area with pledges from their sponsors who have agreed to make donations based on the distance that they complete.

Across the country, riders from North Carolina, Michigan, Maryland and Ohio will join the Florida riders at a distance,

raising funds in their communities as part of the Florida-based effort.

Ride for the Cure 2020 is organized and sponsored by Sun Country Trail Blazers, an Ocala-based riding club that has promoted trail riding since 1987.

This year marks the seventh year that the club has raised money to fight Alzheimer’s disease, which is among the top 10 causes of death in the United States.

“While this is the seventh year we have held a Ride for the Cure event, it is the first time that the event has been socially distanced,” said Karen Kraushaar, president of Sun Country Trail Blazers.

“Like the Alzheimer’s Association itself, which is conducting its annual Walk to

End Alzheimer’s on a socially distanced basis this year due to the pandemic, we are socially distancing our event in order to keep our riders safe,” she added.

Sun Country Trail Blazers held its first Ride for the Cure in 2014. Ed Hancock, an SCTB member, Ocala resident and former board member of the Central and North Florida Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, noted that Florida has the third highest population of people living with Alzheimer’s, at over half a million.

“Another person is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s every 65 seconds,” said Hancock, the leading force behind the annual Marion County-based ride. “It as yet has no cure and

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no effective treatment.

The need for funding is great,” he added.

Many riders this year are dedicating their rides to relatives who have passed away from the incurable disease. Kraushaar is riding in honor of her mother, who died from it in 2012.

Pam Allen, Broker at Horse Capital Homes & Farms Realty, noted that the ability to ride in a smaller group this year makes it more attractive to some riders who have not been in the saddle in a while. Allen plans to Ride for the Cure with coworkers on Oct. 3 at Orange Creek, weather permitting.

And some riders are adding creativity to their efforts, including one rider who competes in mounted archery who

has requested that her sponsors donate based on the number of bullseyes she hits during her ride.

Many of the Ocala riders will meet at the New Santos trailhead on the Greenway at 10 a.m. on Sept 26 to don their official ride t-shirts and begin their journey for the cure.

A wrap-up celebration to express appreciation for all participants and sponsors will take place October 10 at the Shangri-La trailhead in Ocala.

Other riders interested in participating may download the form at the club’s website, www. suncountrytrailblazers. org.

The following companies and organizations are sponsoring this year’s

Ride for the Cure GOLD SPONSORS Home Instead Senior Care; Horse Capital Homes & Farms Realty; Newport Hay; Seminole Fence; The Yard Stop SILVER SPONSORS Al & Sons Millwork Inc.; Belleview Heating & Air Inc.; Contractor’s Supply of Central Florida; Fred Nickel Tile Inc.; Peterson & Smith Equine Hospital; Seminole Feed; TT Distributors MISSION, OTHER SPONSORS Affordable Glass & Mirror; Big Sun Fence; Community Builders Inc.; Good Apple Equine; Kent’s Kar Stereo & Window Tint; Oswald Aluminum; United Hay; Walt’s Pawn & Jewelry Buyer

9

SEPTEMBER 25 - OCTOBER 1, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE

A look at the ballot amendments

Amendment 1 The sponsor of the initiative, a Ponte Vedra Beach-based group called Florida Citizen Voters, has spent $2.4 million to change two words in the Constitution.

The document’s Article VI, which concerns elections, says, “Every citizen of the United States who is at least eighteen years of age and who is a permanent resident of the state, if registered as provided by law, shall be an elector of the county where registered.”

Florida Citizen Voters proposes to strike the words “Every citizen …” and replace them with the phrase “Only a” citizen.…

John Loudon, the group’s chairman, recently told local media in Orlando that the new wording was necessary to prevent non-citizens from voting in Florida elections. “The Constitution says all citizens are electors, but it doesn’t say non-citizens are not electors. That’s the loophole,” Loudon argued.

Non-U.S. citizens are barred from voting in Florida,

Amendment 2 Sponsored by renowned Orlando lawyer John Morgan, this proposed amendment would lift the state minimum, effective Sept. 30, 2021.

Currently, Florida’s minimum wage is $8.56 an hour, or $1.31 above the federal level.

State law mandates an increase each Jan. 1 to match the rate of inflation.

If adopted, Morgan’s change would set the minimum wage at $10 and implement successive annual increases until it reaches $15 an hour.

Then, in September 2027, the state would go back to making yearly hikes based on the growth of inflation.

On its website, Morgan’s group, Florida For a Fair Wage, notes that the boost is needed because the current level “is not a livable wage for many of the 200,000 hard-working Floridians that earn it, especially those working to support a family.” The group cited an MIT study that found a single adult in Florida would have to make $12 an hour to earn a “living wage.”

Critics, primarily those in the hospitality industry, think the change will be harmful to workers and business owners

alike. According to Ballotpedia, Carol Dover, CEO and president of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association, said Amendment 2 has “a lot of feel-good appeal.” But, she added, “behind all the warm and fuzzies lie a plethora of unintended consequences,” including potentially forcing business owners to cut staff, reduce workers’ hours and consider alternatives like automation.

But Florida is a closed-primary state.

That means those voters sit out primary elections unless only one party fields candidates, or they switch to a major party in order to vote.

On the other hand, this is the one issue that unites Republicans and Democrats. Leaders from both statewide parties have opposed Amendment 3, which is primarily backed

by Mike Fernandez, a South Florida billionaire.

For instance, the Democrats in the Florida Black Legislative Caucus believe the amendment could dilute the influence of black voters. “If you are for Amendment 3, you are not for the minority community — period,” Senate Democratic Leader Audrey Gibson of Jacksonville recently told Treasure Coast Newspapers.

The Republican Party of Florida, meanwhile, has said it would restrict voters’ choices in a general election, and allow the weaker party to consolidate behind a candidate and exploit an election where the other side has multiple candidates.

Constitution. The irony of that change is that the amendment itself would not have passed under the condition it introduced.

Nevertheless, Amendment 4 would force a proposed amendment to obtain 60-percent support in two successive elections before becoming law.

Jason Zimmerman, a lawyer for Keep Our Constitution Clean, argues that the state must reduce the number of “whimsical” amendments, according to Ballotpedia. He pointed out Florida’s Constitution has been amended 140 times since it was ratified in 1968, compared to just 27 amendments for the U.S. Constitution in more than 230 years.

On the other hand, foes, such as the League of Women Voters, say it will significantly restrict citizen input in changing our laws.

Ellen Freidin of the group Fair Districts Florida, which promotes an end to gerrymandering, called it a “shameless effort to take away the people’s control over what goes into our Constitution.

We simply cannot give up our most effective tool for change,” Ballotpedia reports.

homeowners who sold their houses could transfer up to $500,000 in value to their new homestead for up to two years.

But some lawmakers saw a problem. As a Florida House staff analysis of the proposal noted, state law says portability is carried over “if the owner received a homestead exemption as of January 1 in either of the immediately preceding two years.”

The problem is that the owner could lose portability depending on when they sold their previous home and moved into the new one.

For instance, if a homeowner sells late in one year but doesn’t find a new home until after Jan. 1 the year after next, portability is gone.

The proposed amendment extends the portability time frame from two years to three years.

Amendment 3 Amendment 3 arguably makes the most profound change of any questions on this year’s ballot. If adopted, it ends the party primary system in Florida elections.

Amendment 3 would introduce California-style “jungle primaries” into Florida, whereby the top two vote-getters in a primary election, regardless of party, would advance to the general election. If only Amendment 6 two candidates qualify, State lawmakers also again regardless of offered Amendment 6, party, the primary which also pertains to becomes the general property taxes. election.

The Constitution The change, grants a property championed by a tax exemption on Tallahassee-based homesteads owned by group called All Voters military veterans 65 or Vote, would apply to older who received an elections for governor, Amendment 4 honorable discharge Legislature and Amendment 4, if and who are partially Cabinet, beginning in approved, could Amendment 5 or totally disabled 2024. significantly alter how Introduced by because of combat Proponents Floridians amend the the Legislature, service. maintain it is needed Constitution itself.

Amendment 5 would The amount of the as more Sunshine Backed by a Fort extend property exemption equals the State voters become Lauderdale-based tax benefits under level of the veteran’s disenchanted with group called Keep Our Florida’s “Save Our disability. But when the two major parties Constitution Clean, the Homes” amendment. the veteran dies, state – a growing trend in proposal would force In 1992, voters law does not permit his recent years. potential constitutional enacted the Save or her spouse to claim Ahead of the August amendments to survive Our Homes change the exemption. primary elections, two elections in order that capped property The amendment, if roughly 28 percent of to be adopted. valuation increases enacted, would allow Florida voters were In 2006 Florida on homesteads at 3 spouses to claim the something other voters imposed percent annually. That tax discount until than Republican or a 60-percent value is established they remarry or until Democrat. In Marion supermajority each Jan. 1. Later, they give up the home, County, that ratioThis was is a theme for incorporating statebelow. established either byinselling or (They may puzzle with the subjectthe stated Find the listed words the grid.

23 percent. into thein a straight “portability,” meaning somemore otherthan means. run in any amendments direction but always line. Some letters are used once.) Ring each word as you find it and when you have completed the puzzle, there will be 21 letters left over. They spell out the alternative theme of the puzzle.

WORD FIND

Car maintenance Solution: 21 Letters

© 2020 Australian Word Games Dist. by Creators Syndicate Inc.

T

he presidential race is obviously the focus of the Nov. 3 ballot.

But voters in Marion County, and throughout the state, also will have to determine whether to change the state Constitution – perhaps multiple times.

At issue during this election are six potential amendments to Florida’s governing charter. Here’s a glimpse at what they mean.

and in most states.

But some blue states have allowed it in certain circumstances.

The Federation for American Immigration Reform released a report in July that noted non-citizens can vote in school board elections in Chicago and San Francisco, while 10 states let them vote in municipal or special-district elections.

Absorbers Aerodynamic Amps Appeal Axle Bond Boot Brakes Bush Choke Cool Core

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By Bill Thompson Deputy Editor

10

SEPTEMBER 25 - OCTOBER 1, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE

HOME is where the heart is Group debuts Grace House to shelter, nurture teen girls in foster care

By Bill Thompson Deputy Editor

severed the bright yellow ribbon draped across the front porch.

About 75 people attended the openhouse ceremony, which also occurred on Schofield’s 66th birthday.

Schofield shared briefly for guests during the hourlong event how the evolution of HOME led to Grace House.

She recalled that when she started HOME 17 years ago, she applied for a $190,000 grant for the project.

She said a supporter who reviewed the document gave it back and advised, “Dream bigger.”

Since then, 1,040 young women have passed through her program, which now features four homes to help girls in foster care. Besides Grace

W

ith a quick snip of an oversized pair of scissors, Diane Schofield opened a new chapter in her efforts to help troubled girls.

Last Friday, Schofield, founder and executive director of Hands of Mercy Everywhere, or HOME, launched Grace House, the third of HOME’s three group settings in Belleview dedicated to sheltering teen girls in foster care.

“We thank you all for coming. We thank God so much for this house to bring us all the blessings of the official grand opening of the Grace House,” said Schofield as she

House, they include Faith and Hope Houses in Belleview, which serve girls between 12 and 17, and Promise House in Ocala, a transitional home for women 18 to 21.

Seventy percent of Schofield’s clients are pregnant or mothers already.

And many have been sexually or physically abused, involved in sex or human trafficking, in trouble with authorities, or, as Grace House will focus on, suffer from emotional or psychological problems.

Several of Schofield’s supporters spoke on Friday.

Among them was state Sen. Dennis Baxley, R-Lady Lake, who praised Schofield for her persistence and

[Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2020.

for implementing the ideal communitybased care model that the state Department of Children and Families seeks to provide.

“This is how it should be done,” he said.

State Rep. Stan McClain, R-Ocala, said he appreciated Schofield’s “no nonsense” approach to making the girls abide by rules, and the “great work” she was doing to help them.

Ocala Mayor Kent Guinn said he was adopted and recalled how his birth mother, a teenager at the time, brought him to Florida.

“Had this happened 65 years ago, she probably would have thought about this one, and I probably would have been here,”

Guinn said of HOME. “This is how you do it,” he added, echoing Baxley.

John Cooper, CEO of Kids Central Inc., the primary DCFdesignated child welfare agency serving Marion County, noted, “It’s fantastic to have a place like this. It’s not just a nice place, but

also caring people.”

Sheriff Billy Woods told Schofield, “There is no greater reward that you can be given than to change the life of another human being.”

One Grace House, set up to serve six girls, is full. HOME will have 30 total clients.

[Bill Thompson/Ocala Gazette] 2020.

[Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2020.

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SEPTEMBER 25 - OCTOBER 1, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE

Ocala Gazette publishes fond remembrances of your loved one

A COLLABORATIVE EXHIBITION

Visit ocalagazette.com to submit an obituary

OCTOBER 2 - 31, 2020 RECEPTION: OCTOBER 2 Brick City Center for the Arts

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Ask yourself why you’re sharing—and let your emotions cool.

Headlines and memes provoke passionate responses and serve as calls to action.

In the moment, it can feel necessary or righteous to share the content. Foreign adversaries know this. They count on you spreading their content, exposing your friends and family, and widening their disinformation network. You can help break this cycle. Next time you read a provocative headline, take a moment to investigate its source and content before sharing it with others.

AN EXHIBITION of FAFO ARTISTS OCTOBER 1 - 31, 2020 RECEPTION: OCTOBER 9 NOMA Art Gallery

A CELEBRATION OF HORTICULTURE RECEPTION: OCTOBER 29, 2020 Brick City Center for the Arts

Know the content Beyond the headline or caption, what is the underlying message? Make sure you know if the content you are sharing is a fact, an opinion, out of context, or a lie. Verify the information by checking it against trusted news outlets or primary sources.

Know the source Foreign adversaries create fake websites that produce lots of content in little time, and fake accounts to share the content and make it appear popular and legitimate. Before you amplify a false message by sharing it with your followers, find out where the initial information comes from.

Know the reason Content can appear in your feed for many reasons.

Before you share content, understand if you have been specifically targeted to see the information, and if so, ask why. If it was shared by a friend, make sure you trust the original source as much as the friend.

FAFO.ORG

Know yourself Adversaries create content that feels true on an emotional level. This causes people to share content even when they know it to be hateful or untrue. Ask yourself why you are sharing something. Consider using your own words rather than forwarding potential disinformation.

Do not let yourself be emotionally manipulated.

facebook.com/FineArtsForOcala/ You have the power to stop foreign influence operations. Follow these steps:

To learn more about how you can stop disinformation, visit our website at www.dhs.gov/cisa/protect2020.

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12

SEPTEMBER 25 - OCTOBER 1, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE

Habitat For Humanity Phoenix Rising YouthBuild Wall Raising ceremony The Habitat For Humanity Phoenix Rising YouthBuild Wall Raising ceremony took place on Pecan Road in Silver Springs Shores, Fla. on Thursday, Sept. 10, 2020. The 1,100 square foot 3/2 home is being built for Jimarie Cruz-Sanchez, who has two sons, ages 9 and 14. Habitat For Humanity is building six homes for families this year, four of them are active construction sites. The Habitat home for Cruz-Sanchez is being built by Phoenix Rising YouthBuild through a community housing development grant administered by Marion County Community Services, the Marion County Sheriff ’s Office, Neighborhood Housing and Development Corp., Florida State Housing Initiative Partnership, Equal Housing Opportunity, Silver River Mentoring and Instruction, the College of Central Florida, Eckerd Connects Workforce Development and CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2020.

Future homeowner Jimarie Cruz-Sanchez, right, helps hold a wall stud in place as Tralayah Fluker, a Phoenix Rising YouthBuild team member, left, hammers a nail in place.

Congressman Daniel Webster, right, helps raise a wall with Jimarie Cruz-Sanchez, second from right and two Phoenix Rising YouthBuild team members.

Jeff Ruttenber, the Sr. Project Manager for Habitat For Humanity Marion County, talks about the symbolic nail.

Jamarie Cruz-Sanchez, the future homeowner, center, helps level a wall with Dave x 2.5” | Maximum Font Size: 30 pttop, and Paul Layman, the president/CEO of3.5” Habitat For Humanity/Marion County, Scrambling, the site supervisor, bottom.

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Helping cats and kittens!

Volunteers needed!

Our low cost spay/neuter clinic helps to control the cat population by offering affordable services to the community. Our volunteers allow us to provide exceptional care. Training is provided for all positions. All shifts are 4 hours. Volunteers select the days they wish to work at the beginning of the month. Check out our website shelteringhands. org for more details.

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13

SEPTEMBER 25 - OCTOBER 1, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE

Sports Football is back

North Marion, Vanguard, Dunnellon among state’s top teams as public schools finally take the field Friday night

By Morgan Willett Sports Editor

F

or many, football is as much a part of fall as cooler nights, the return of outdoor festivals and the approach of holidays.

But nothing in 2020 is what it used to be.

Covid-19 has seen to that.

After a long delay, area public high schools kick off their football seasons this week, offering a respite from the angst and daily complications of a scourge that has paused so many aspects of our daily life.

It wasn’t easy getting to this point.

Dunnellon Coach Price Harris said that during summer training camp only 10 players were allowed at a time in the weight room for 45-minute workout sessions. When you have a roster of over 40 players, this makes for long days.

“I am so appreciative of my coaching staff and the players’ parents,” Harris said. “Everyone pulled together to make sure players were ready for the season.

My coaching staff went above and beyond,

making themselves available, which would have been for nothing if the parents had failed to make sure players were able to get to their specific workout timeslot.”

Harris’ Tigers are one of the teams to watch in 2020, as they begin their quest for a title with a game against Lake Weir.

“We still have work to do, and we will continue to grind it out, but we are ready for Friday night against Lake Weir,” he said.

The other publicschool matchups on tap feature West Port against Belleview and Forest against North Marion.

Said Coach Greg Carr of the North Marion Colts, “My team has been putting in the work at practice and are ready to put their skills to the test in live action. We are beyond excited to get the season started.”

The following is a quick glance at each team and how they are shaping up for the 2020 season: Belleview The Rattlers, who take on West Port Friday night, are coming off a disappointing 1-9 record in 2019, but

the return of just 13 seniors gives this team an inexperienced look. They will have to rely on a crop of underclassmen if they are to make noise in 2020. Led by Head Coach Adam Martin, Belleview enters the season ranked 510 in the state.

Dunnellon The Tigers were one of just two teams that were able to complete a pre-season scrimmage, against West Port, and they pulled off a 49-34 victory. Dunnellon finished the 2019 season with an overall record of 9-2. Under the leadership of Head Coach, Price Harris and a whopping 23 seniors, the Tigers figure to be in the hunt for a district championship. Their current state rank is 66.

Forest The season opener for Forest will be tough, as they face a strong North Marion team. The Wildcats’ record for the 2019 season was 3-7, but they return 17 seniors, giving them a strong nucleus and a chance to compete every week.

They are led by Head Coach Robin Williams and enter 2020 ranked

328 in Florida.

Lake Weir The home opener for Lake Weir will be a difficult matchup as they face the Dunnellon Tigers.

The Hurricanes had a disappointing 2019 season, finishing with a 1-9 record. With only 10 seniors on the team, Head Coach, Eoghan Cullen will have to look to his underclassmen to help carry the load and elevate this group.

Lake Weir is ranked 475 in the state.

North Marion Due to inclement weather North Marion’s preseason scrimmage against Vanguard was cancelled. The Colts had a strong showing in 2019, finishing 9-3.

Head Coach Greg Carr returns 16 seniors and a mix of juniors, sophomores and some freshmen that he will look to for a strong 2020 season. North Marion enters the year ranked an impressive 52 in the state, making the Colts a favorite almost every week on the schedule.

Vanguard The Knights have a bye this week, allowing Head Coach Edwin Farmer one more week

to finalize preparations for their season opener on October 2 versus the Forest Wildcats. Finishing the 2019 season with a 9-3 record with 17 seniors on the roster, Vanguard should be a tough matchup for any team this year. They boast a state rank of 60.

West Port Coming off a 34-49 loss in the preseason scrimmage, Head Coach Steve Rhem has been working hard to prepare his team for the season opener against Belleview. The Wolf Pack concluded the 2019 season with a record of 2-8, and with only 12 seniors returning, they will have their work cut out for them. Their current state rank is 379.

As the public schools are preparing for their season openers, the football season for private schools is already under way. Here is a brief preview of the outcomes so far and what is coming up.

• Ocala Christian Academy: The Crusaders are off tough losses to Bronson (26-40); Legacy Charter

(18-26); and Halifax Academy (48-46). Head Coach Dan Young hopes to turn their season around with an away game against Trinity Christian on October 2.

• St. John Lutheran: St. John’s season opener was a bit dismal with a loss to Cedar Creek Christian (0-54).

With what appears to be a young roster, Coach Joel Bronson has his work cut out for him. The Saints have their home opener Friday, October 2, against Eagle’s View out of Jacksonville.

• Trinity Catholic: The Celtics topped South Sumter at their home opener, 48-31, and hopes to make it two in a row this week against Gainesville.

Finishing 2019 with a record of 8-4 with just 12 seniors on the field, John Coach Brantley will have to rely on a strong group of underclassmen to post another winning season in 2020.

Coming off an impressive 9-3 season in 2019, Dunnellon head coach Price Harris returns 23 seniors as he begins the quest for a district championship this week. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2020.

Darius Capers of West Port (14) tries to stop Dunnellon (11) in the varsity game during the scrimmage held at West Port High School in Ocala, Fla. on Thursday, Sept. 17, 2020. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2020.

Wide receiver Trevonte Rucker of Vanguard High School catches a pass during practice on Wednesday, Sept. 9. Rucker, who has committed to University of Florida, figures to be a matchup nightmare for opposing teams this season. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2020.

Dunnellon quarterback Trent Townsend (15) throws a pass against West Port during a scrimmage at West Port High School in Ocala on Thursday, Sept. 17. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2020.

14

SEPTEMBER 25 - OCTOBER 1, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE

Health and safety guidelines for fall sports • 4 vouchers will be given to each participating MCPS student (athlete, cheerleader, band member, etc.). Students may distribute vouchers as they like.

• Vouchers must be presented at gate to purchase tickets (one ticket per voucher). No voucher, no ticket. No general admission.

• Restricted entrance for better control.

• Bring a face covering. Ticket purchasers must abide by Marion County School Board resolution requiring face coverings on all School Board property when safe social distancing is not possible per CDC recommendations.

• Spectators in bleachers and other areas are expected to safely social distance.

• Capacity limited to 50 percent.

• Spectator contact prohibited with student athletes to limit physical exposure.

• Media will remain in limited staging areas. No face-to-face interviews will be provided.

• Paid parking may be available on a school-by-school basis.

• MCPS employees must wear badge for sole admission.

• Concession sales may be available in a pre-packaged format on a school-by-school basis.

• Public water fountains will not be available.

Westport defeats Belleview Westport Wolf Pack defeats Belleview 4 sets to 2 during a volleyball match at West Port High School in Ocala, Fla. on Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2020. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2020.

West Port’s Melanie Agosto (3) celebrates after a win.

Belleview’s Maci Abshire (3) sets the ball .

Source: Marion County Public Schools West Port’s Paola Briceno-Lago (4) spikes the ball over the net as Belleview’s Maci Abshire (3) jumps for the block.

West Port’s Yarielis Melendez jumps to block a spiked ball.

Adoptions are only $30 throughout the month of September!

View more adoptable pets at www.marioncountyfl.org/animal.

Adoption price includes up-todate vaccinations, county license, microchip and spay/neuter surgery.

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Cool Cat Soulful-eyed, 5-year-old male cat seeks a human who loves the love. Don’t let his name fool you – this handsome, laid-back guy is a lover, not a fighter!

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15

SEPTEMBER 25 - OCTOBER 1, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE

Community

9/25

Friday Talks

9/25

Appleton Store at Home

9/25

Marion Oaks Farmers Market

9/25

Anthill Cinema

9/25

Marion County Friday Market

9/25

Deborah

9/25

zNights

9/29

Teaching Tuesday: Draw a Guitar

9/26

9/26

9/26

Virtual 8:30am College of Central Florida associate professor of digital media Graham Young presents “Podcasting for Fun and Profit.”

Participate via https://zoom.us/j/83225862616. RSVP to andrea@ocalacep.com.

Marion Oaks Community Center, 294 Marion Oaks Ln. 9am-12pm Fresh vegetables, artisan food products and handmade crafts.

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

Dunnellon Duck Race

Swampy’s Bar & Grille, 19773 E Pennsylvania Ave., Dunnellon 8-11am The Dunnellon Chamber & Business Association is offering 600 ducks to be sponsored in this charity race that benefits seven local nonprofit organizations. Contact Joanne Black at (352) 351-4663 or jblack@habitatocala.org for more information.

Walk to End Alzheimer’s

Virtual 9am This year’s virtual walk kicks off with opening ceremonies at 9am. Walkers are invited to walk their own route individually or with family and friends. A drive-through promise garden will be open at Tuscawilla Park from 10am-3pm. www.alz.org/ walk

Brownwood Farmers Market

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

9/26

Ocala Downtown Market

9/26

Recovery in a Bag

9/29

9/30

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

The Centers, 5664 SW 60th Ave. 10am-1pm In conjunction with Marion County Children’s Alliance, The Centers is distributing free Narcan, which reverses the effects of a drug overdose, in a drive-through event. Email mhaughton@thecenters.us for more information.

CEP 101

Ocala/Marion County Chamber & Economic Partnership, 310 SE 3rd St. 8:30-9:30am An orientation for new partners and their staff. Email jim@ ocalacep.com for more information.

9/30

1 Million Cups Ocala

9/29

Navigating Medicare.gov

9/30

10/1

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

SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) - virtual 2-3:30pm Learn more about Medicare in this free Zoom workshop offered online or by phone. Call (352) 692-5262 or email shine@agingresources.org for more information. www. floridashine.org

The Sharon (Virtual) 7pm A staged play reading of the real story of Deborah Sampson, who dressed as a man and fought in the Revolutionary War. www.thesharon.com

NOMA Gallery, 939 N. Magnolia Ave. 7:30pm Local singers Olivia Ortiz, Becky Sinn and Giselle Felice, backed by the Greg Snider Group, capture the saucy stories of Ella Fitzgerald, the Queen of Jazz. Tickets available via https:// etsy.me/2FsDRsQ

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

NOMA Gallery, 939 N. Magnolia Ave. 12-6pm An art show featuring best-in-show artists from the last five Ocala Arts Festivals presented by Fine Arts for Ocala (FAFO) and sponsored by the David & Lisa Irwin Midgett Foundation at the historic Coca Cola building. Open Thursdays-Sundays. www.fafo.org

Government

9/28

Marion County Development Review Committee

9/28

City of Belleview Site Plan Committee

9/28

Hospital District Board of Trustees & Munroe Regional Heath System

9/28

Dunnellon Community Redevelopment Agency Board

9/28

Dunnellon City Council

9/28

Marion County Planning & Zoning Commission

9/28

Ocala Housing Authority

10/1

Marion County Development Review Committee Staff Meeting

10/1

Ocala Municipal Arts Commission

Medicare & COVID-19

SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) - virtual 2-3:30pm Learn more about Medicare in this free Zoom workshop offered online or by phone. Call (352) 692-5262 or email shine@agingresources.org for more information. www. floridashine.org

Marion Theatre, 50 S. Magnolia Ave. 7pm In this live special event, the seven-piece experimental collective from St. Pete will be playing and recording their new jazz-rock fusion album “Cycle.” Limited tickets available at www.reillyartscenter.com.

10/1- Alone Together 10/31

Florida-Friendly Landscaping: Mulch

Virtual 10-11:30am IFAS Marion County Master Gardeners presents the advantages of appropriately using mulch in your landscape.

Registration via https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/marion/ is required for this free online workshop.

Virtual 6:30-7:30pm Appleton Store Manager Gigi Gonzalez hosts a virtual shopping trip with savings on jewelry, books and art-themed gifts. Pre-register through the event page at www.facebook. com/appletonmuseum.

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

City Hall Commission Room, 5343 SE Abshier Blvd., Belleview 9-10am Call (352) 245-7021 for more information.

Hospital District Office, 1121 SW First Ave. 5pm Call (352) 622-3662 for more information.

Dunnellon City Hall, 20750 River Dr. 5pm Contact Mandy Roberts at mroberts@dunnellon.org or (352) 465-8500 for more information about this special budget meeting.

Dunnellon City Hall, 20750 River Dr. 5:30pm Contact Mandy Roberts at mroberts@dunnellon.org or (352) 465-8500 for more information about this special budget meeting.

McPherson Government Complex, 601 SE 25th Ave. 5:30pm The Planning & Zoning Commission conducts hearings for zoning changes and special use permits. Call (352) 438-2600 for more information.

Farmers Market

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

Now Pleasures 2.0 -9/26

Arts

Brick City Center for the Arts, 23 S. Broadway Monday-Friday 10am-4pm; Sunday 11am-4pm Marion Cultural Alliance’s annual art competition and exhibit is back by popular demand. Artists were invited to create works inspired the simple pleasures we all enjoy. www.mcaocala.org

Now Pump Boys and Dinettes -10/25

Ocala Civic Theatre, 4337 E Silver Springs Blvd.

7:30pm This high-octane, country-flavored musical set at North Carolina’s Double Cupp Diner promises a down-home good time. Performances are Thursday-Sunday through October 25th. Visit www.ocalacivictheatre.com for tickets and more information, or call (352) 236-2274.

Virtual 6pm Participate online via www.ocalahousing.org. Call (352) 2692636 for more information.

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

Virtual 3-4pm Participate online via https://zoom.us/j/94036198722. Call (352) 629-8447 for more information.

16

SEPTEMBER 25 - OCTOBER 1, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE

ENTERTAINMENT CALENDAR 25

6:30pm Gilly & the Girl La Cuisine French Restaurant

25

7-11pm Fareeza Infinite Ale Works

26

6-9am Jeff Jarrett Locos Grill & Pub

26

7pm Rocky and the Rollers Circle Square Cultural Center

28

5-9pm Conrad Marcum Bank Street Patio Bar

25

6:30pm Stephen Lopez The Crazy Cucumber

25

7-11pm Conrad Marcum O’Calahan’s Pub & Eatery

26

6pm The Mudds Hiatus Brewing Company

26

10pm-2am Fareeza O’Malley’s Alley

10/1

5pm Gilly & the Girl Bank Street Patio Bar

25

7pm AllenSpark Bank The Corkscrew

26

8-11pm Conrad Marcum The Black Sheep on Broadway

26

7pm Groove 41 Our Place Saloon

27

2-6pm Conrad Marcum Eaton’s Beach Florisiana Cuisine

10/1

6-9pm Becky Sinn Sovereigns & Scoundrels

MARION COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEMHEADQUARTERS-OCALA AND FREEDOM OCTOBER 2020 PROGRAMMING SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING LIBRARY PROGRAMMING All programs require preregistration. Call the host library to register and confirm programming details.

In order to best serve the community and maintain health standards, all programs are subject to change or cancellation without notice. Programs that are listed might be offered as on-site programs or online programs or both. If on-site, space will be very limited and in accordance with public health guidelines.

Headquarters-Ocala 352-671-8551 Freedom Public Library 352-438-2580 Virtual Programs

Check out our Facebook page www.facebook.com/ MCPLibrary/ for more details.

Community Conversations There are many conversations going on in Marion County libraries. Feel free to join one or all of them! Call the libraries for registration and details and come together for a casual and considerate exchange of ideas.

Topic: How did a simple act of kindness make a profound difference in your life?

Friday, Oct. 9, 3pm Freedom Public Library Special Programs Pumpkin Painting Party Enjoy the fall weather in the pumpkin patch!

Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2pm Freedom Public Library

HEADQUARTERS-OCALA

2720 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala FL 34470 352-671-8551 Programs are made possible by contributions from the Friends of the Ocala Public Library.

ADULTS

All programs require preregistration. Call 352-671-8551 to register.

Crafternoons Wednesdays, 4:30pm Get in touch with the right side of your brain!

Oct. 7 | Faux Stained Glass Novels at Night Book Club Tuesdays, 4pm Enjoy spirited book discussions… virtually!

Oct. 13 | “The Nickel Boys” by Colson Whitehead Color. Connect.

Converse.

Mondays, 2 pm Oct. 5- 26 | Express yourself through coloring and interesting conversation!

TEENS

All programs require pre-registration.

Call 352-671-8551

to register.

MANGAlicious Teen Club!

Thursdays, 4:30pm Oct. 1 | Anime and manga fans, unite!

Show and Sketch Teen Artist Club Mondays, 4:30pm Oct. 12 | Share your art and learn new techniques.

All skill levels welcome.

Geekfest!

Fandoms and Comic Club Wednesdays, 4:30pm Oct. 28 | Explore the world of pop culture and comics with fellow fans.

Fab Lab: Oh Sew Magical!

Wednesday, Oct. 14, 4:30pm Make your own misfit. Learn basic hand stiches with unicorns, gnomes and sasquatches.

CHILDREN All programs

require preregistration. Call 352-671-8551 to register.

Spooktacular Crafts Saturday, Oct. 24, 2pm Ages 5-12 with caregivers.

Have a spooky good time making spiders, ghosts and more.

Story Times A variety of stories, songs, and activities for children and caregivers. All programs require pre-registration.

Call 352-671-8551 to register.

Fresh Air Story Time Tuesdays, Wednesdays, 10:30am Oct. 6- Oct. 28 Program is held at the Veteran’s Memorial Park Pavilion, 2601 E. Fort King Street, Ocala.

Ages 5 and younger with caregiver.

Family Story Time Saturdays, 10:30am Oct. 3 Ages 5 and younger with caregiver.

FREEDOM PUBLIC LIBRARY

5870 SW 95th St., Ocala 34476 352-438-2580 Programs are made possible by contributions from the Friends of Freedom Public Library.

SPECIAL PROGRAMS All programs require pre-registration. Call 352-438-2580 to register.

Community Conversation Friday, Oct. 9, 3pm Topic: How did a simple act of kindness make a profound difference in your life?

There are many conversations going on in Marion County libraries. Feel free to join one or all of them! Call the library for registration and details and come together for a casual and considerate exchange of ideas.

See Program Spotlight for other locations and topics.

ADULTS

All programs require pre-registration. Call 352-438-2580 to register.

As the Page Turns Book Club Tuesdays, 2:30pm Join the club and turn the page!

Oct. 6 | “The

Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde”

by Robert Louis Stevenson Next Level Computing Mondays, 2pm Learn new skills and master your online experience!

Oct. 5 | YouTube for Beginners Oct. 12 | Basics of Pinterest

TEENS & TWEENS

All programs require pre-registration. Call 352-438-2580 to register.

MANGAlicious Teen Club!

Tuesdays, 4:30pm Oct. 6 | Anime and manga fans, unite!

YALLA Free!

Thursdays, 5pm Oct. 8 | Be a part of the library experience. Teens, earn volunteer service hours.

DIY Monster Masks Thursday, Oct. 15, 4pm

Just in time for the holiday!

FAMILIES

All programs require pre-registration. Call 352-438-2580 to register.

Kindness Rocks!

Thursday, Oct. 8, 3pm Embrace your imagination! Paint inspiring messages on river rocks and spread kindness throughout our community!

Pumpkin Decorating Contest Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2pm Dress your pumpkin for the season!

Bring in your best decorated (not carved) pumpkin and vote for your favorite!

Story Times A variety of stories, songs, and activities for children and caregivers. All programs require pre-registration. Call 352-438-2580 to register.

Family Story Time Wednesdays, 10:30am, Oct. 7- 28

17

SEPTEMBER 25 - OCTOBER 1, 2020 | OCALA GAZETTE

Letters to the Editor Officers touch lives of woman, grandson Editor’s Note: The following is a letter to the Ocala Police Department, reprinted with the permission of the writer

D

ear Major Taylor: It would be remiss of me not to share with you the following account of a recent experience of mine.

At approximately 6:26 a.m. on Friday, September 4, I was awakened to what I thought was noise from construction that was underway at my condo.

When I realized it was too early for the crews to be on site, I looked outside only to find two subjects on my balcony.

I yelled out to them, “What are you doing?”

I realized they had thrown my bike off the balcony and one of the men jumped soon after.

Then I found myself face to face with the second man and, as I yelled, he panicked and jumped off the balcony.

I observed both men run down the road and into another apartment complex.

I dialed 911 and when the operator answered, she asked if it was an emergency. I explained to her what had just happened.

She obtained address information and the direction I observed the men running.

While I was yet speaking with the 911 operator, I heard sirens in the distance.

I remember thinking that there was no way those sirens were for

me. As the sirens got closer, the 911 operator continued to obtain information from me and was patient and professional. In moments, I heard a knock on my door and opened it to Officer Decker with the Ocala Police Department, accompanied by three or four other officers.

As Officer Decker and the others interviewed me, they were professional and appeared very concerned. Officer Decker informed me that the police dog was on site and the helicopter was overhead. I asked him, “All of this for a bike?”

He explained to me that because these men had come onto my property while it was occupied constituted a more serious offense than a stolen bike.

Officer Decker was very professional in his interaction with me as he communicated everything that was happening at the time.

His approach had a calming effect on me and I was able to give the best description I could of the subjects I’d observed on my balcony. I recall him saying to me, “You did great!”

Officer Decker continued to communicate with me throughout the entire process, making me feel a part of it, never leaving me out of the loop. He kept me informed as much as he could as to what was going on.

Officer Decker

returned later and asked that if I saw the suspects, would I be able to identify them and I told him I was pretty sure I could.

He told me that if it was okay, an officer and a trainee would be arriving to transport me to identify the suspects. He advised

grandson called as he was concerned after hearing Grandma was in the back of a police car. I asked Officer Medeiros if it was okay for me to answer the call. He said yes and that if I wanted (as he had overheard the conversation between me and my grandson,

Officer Decker. Photo courtesy of Ocala Police Department.

the training officer would be reading a statement to me that is required prior to me seeing the suspect and that it was also part of the procedure and part of her training.

Upon arrival, the training officer and the trainee introduced themselves. The training officer advised me again of the process prior to helping me get into the police cruiser. Once in the cruiser, my 4-year-old

Maison), I could show him the back of the car.

After the identification was complete and I was being returned home, Officer Medeiros offered to turn on the lights if I wanted to bring my grandson outside to take a look at the cruiser. I was so excited for Maison, but I had to explain to Officer Medeiros that my grandson actually lived in Orange County, that I had been

communicating with him via Face Time.

But when we arrived at my complex, Officer Medeiros turned on the lights and, after the training officer helped me out of the car, she opened the doors and allowed me to show my grandson the car through Face Time. This was a pleasant surprise and to see the look on my grandson’s face was one of those priceless moments. The training officer even said hello to my grandson as I explained to him that there are female police officers in the world, as well.

Later, after all the other officers had departed the scene, Officer Decker, while still maintaining a professional and gentle demeanor with me and my family, explained what could be expected from that point on.

What could have been a traumatic experience was transformed into a comforting one due to the care and concern of the responding officers. As a result of the timely dispatch and quick response by law enforcement, the suspect was apprehended and my property was recovered.

In my profession, I’ve had opportunity to work closely with many officers of the Ocala Police Department.

However, this was my first contact with them on a personal level. And because of the outcome, I have a greater respect for

them and for what they do. There was not one moment throughout this process that I was made to feel uncomfortable. I was handled with care and treated with the utmost respect (very odd, but I felt like a queen).

Some may perceive this as minor, but I believe that officers who display the type of professionalism and demonstrate genuine concern for people that I was met with make a great impact in our community, thus making the world a better place to live. And aside from my encounter, my grandson had a positive encounter with law enforcement as well. It was the officers’ simple gestures of queuing the lights and the virtual tour of the cruiser that, seven days later, caused him to say, “Grandma, guess what? I’m going to be a police officer!”

With everything going on in the world today, law enforcement officers are often in the spotlight as a result of negative behaviors; some real, some imagined. We quickly platform what is said to be wrong; but I feel that with the same platform we should recognize them for what they do right.

I am a strong advocate for LOVE, PEACE and UNITY In Sincere Appreciation Freda Smith, Ocala

In praise of an unsung heroine Y

our article in the September 18 edition regarding the new HOME house in Belleview did an excellent job describing the mission of Diane Schofield and her team. However, for those of us who knew and loved the

donor of the house, Emma Jean Smith, the story was not complete.

I’m sure none of us ever thought of her as “an aged spinster” who left no heirs.

Throughout her career she was a vibrant, caring teacher who influenced generations

of students at Ocala and Forest High School. Her zest for living continued into her retirement years, and as a gracious hostess her dining room was often the place of laughter and good times.

Her house was filled with a lifetime of accumulated

beautiful things she treasured. Although she had no children, after her death her very special cousins spent months distributing it all and making sure Emma Jean’s final wishes were carried out.

How appropriate that

Emma Jean Smith, who made a such a difference to so many young people during her lifetime, left a legacy that will continue for years to come.

also will be offered at the Health Department’s Ocala office, 1801 S.E. 32nd Ave. They are scheduled for Oct. 7, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., and Oct. 13, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Please call (352) 6290137 (select option 1, and then enter extension 5037) to schedule an appointment

for the drive-through event. A parent or guardian will need to accompany anyone under age 18. For more information on the Department of Health in Marion County, visit Marion.FloridaHealth. gov or follow the department on Twitter at @ FLHealthMarion).

Maxine Hume, Ocala

With COVID-19, getting a seasonal flu shot is critical

By Christy Jergens Guest columnist

I

t’s officially fall, and with the arrival of cooler weather also comes the traditional flu season.

This year’s flu season will be complicated by COVID-19, however, which can have similar symptoms.

The Marion County Health Department is encouraging residents to get their flu shots now, before flu season is in full swing.

“Getting the flu shot each year is important but reducing illness and hospitalization from flu is even more critical this year to help protect healthcare workers and prevent strain on the healthcare system as they continue to care for people with COVID-19 and other illnesses,” said Health

Department Administrator Mark Lander. “Until there is a steady vaccine supply against COVID-19, the way to prevent these two viruses from circulating at the same time is to get your flu shot as soon as possible.”

The flu vaccine is safe, and it’s recommended for everyone six months of age and older, including pregnant women. It takes about two weeks for the flu shot to offer protection once vaccinated.

People at higher risk for flu-related complications include children less than 5, adults over the age of 65, people with compromised immune systems, pregnant women and people who have pre-existing medical conditions, such as asthma and obesity.

In addition to protecting yourself from getting the flu, getting vaccinated if you are

healthy helps to protect our most vulnerable populations.

Contact your doctor’s office or local pharmacy to check on flu shot availability.

Youths under age 19 and uninsured or underinsured residents can get a flu shot for free at DOHMarion’s main office, 1801 S.E. 32nd Ave. in Ocala, by appointment Monday through Friday. Call (352) 629-0137, select option 1 and then enter extension 5037 for more information on a flu shot at the health department.

Meanwhile, free youth flu shot drive-through opportunities are scheduled for October.

The Health Department is holding two youth flu shot drive-through clinics in October. Anyone under age 19 can receive the flu shot for free at the events. The clinics

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