OCALA GAZETTE | NOV. 19 - NOV. 25 by Magnolia Media Company

VOLUME 2 ISSUE 20

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NOVEMBER 19 - NOVEMBER 25, 2021

Fading Fields

Alan Youngblood/Ocala Gazette

Cotton grows in a field at the intersection of West SR 40 and Southwest 60th Avenue in Ocala, Florida on Monday November 16, 2021. There is a zoning change proposed for the property.

Another open space going away for development?

Beds for the homeless Interfaith in talks to purchase 14-unit complex for Permanent Support Housing By James Blevins Ocala Gazette With cold weather patterns slowly creeping in the last few weeks, Marion County’s many homeless citizens are in desperate need of housing. Ocala’s Interfaith Emergency Services is working diligently to help alleviate that issue one bed at a time before winter sets in. Currently in talks to purchase a 14-unit building from Arnette House, Inc., Interfaith is hoping to establish a newly planned Permanent Support Housing (PSH) complex off N.E. 14th St. in Ocala. The contract between the two nonprofits has at this time established a closing date of Dec. 31 or sooner for the sale. CEO of Interfaith Karla Greenway said the PSH program provides staff on site to help individuals that can’t effectively

live on their own. “They’re capable of self-care,” she clarified. “They’re capable of some basic things, but they’re just not capable of Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette maintaining Karla Greenway, the CEO of Interfaith Emergency Services, gives stable housing, James Ponder, who has been homeless for 26 years, a hi-five not without a lot outside one of the residential units. of support.” Along with the complex prior to Interfaith’s on-site case management, the planned purchase. program also features wrap“There‘s not really any other around services such as trauma low-income housing available; counseling, while targeting to if we displaced them, then we help people that are intellectually would just add to the homeless disabled or suffer from mental situation,” explained Greenway. health issues. “So, we‘re letting the families The complex on N.E. 14th that are currently leasing St. will be multi-use for the first remain.” couple of years due to some low-income families still living in See Beds, page A2

ity Council approved RLR Investments rezoning request for 79.66 acres north of West Highway 40 and west of NW 60th Ave. at the Nov. 2, 2021, city council meeting. Principals of RLR Investments, LLC, include Ralph Roberts, Sr., and Mary D. Roberts, the principals behind the World Equestrian Center. The company’s attorney was unresponsive to multiple inquiries to learn what the planned use was for the property and to find out whether the property was leased to a farmer who raised the cotton crops there now. In notes by city staff recommending approval of the zoning change to city council and the planning and zoning commission, they described the property as “undeveloped” and the future use “low intensity.” The land had previously been annexed into the City of Ocala in 2013 and had historically been used for agricultural purposes until this request. RLR Investments bought the property for $2 million in Feb. 2019. The 79.66 acres is the largest track of land owned by RLR Investments in Marion County. A review of 153 property records associated with RLR Investments on the Marion County Property Appraiser’s website showed the entity primarily owns vacant lots within or attached to Golden Ocala. Nancy Smith, Senior Planner for the City of Ocala Growth Management Department, indicated that RLR Investments did not identify their plans for future use of the property with their rezoning request and did not know the farmer who grew crops on the land currently.

OPD reports no open lodging arrests since March: By James Blevins Ocala Gazette The Ocala Police Department (OPD) hasn’t arrested a person, regardless of whether they are homeless or not, on the charge of “open lodging” since March of 2021, according OPD. First established in 2002, the original city ordinance against open lodging made a person subject to arrest in the city if they were sleeping in public and admitted to being homeless. In February, U.S. District Judge James Moody ruled in a case challenging the ordinance that city police failure to inquire about shelter availability prior to arresting a homeless person for open lodging violated the Eighth Amendment of the US Constitution. Moody’s ruling also put the focus on the shelter situation locally. According to the lawsuit, on any given night, approximately 150 homeless people go without shelter in the county. But there are only 65 shelter beds available in the county

for single adults. After the court ruling, the Ocala City Council unanimously voted to amend the ordinance on March 2, eliminating the homeless reference. Under the new tweaked ordinance, police officers would have to check on the availability of beds at nearby shelters before arresting anyone for open lodging in the city but could still arrest someone for open lodging without asking the individual if he or she was homeless. Around the time of Moody’s ruling, Interfaith attempted to set up a temporary open-air shelter where 15 to 20 homeless people could sleep safely behind a fence, protected by armed security, and offered access to services and facilities. The idea ran afoul of city zoning rules, though, and city council denied Interfaith’s temporary shelter a path to legal status in May. OPD does not report an increase of complaints or other issues due to a lack of open lodging arrests, according to Jeffrey See No Open Lodging, page A2

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NOVEMBER 19 - NOVEMBER 25, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Beds for the Homeless Continued from A1 According to Greenway, the Public Policy Institute of Marion County determined in 2019 that Marion County needed over 200 PSH beds in the community to address the need for the chronically homeless. “We‘re still woefully low,” she admitted. “And there‘s still a huge need. But we‘re just excited that some of the individuals that we‘ve been seeing for at least a decade that have been homeless are going to finally be housed. It’s exciting that we’re making a little bit of an impact in that arena.” Arnette House, a charitable nonprofit that offers emergency shelter services and family counseling to at-risk youth, first obtained the building to run a program for local youth aging out of foster care in 2007. That original program hasn’t been in operation since 2010, according to CEO of Arnette House Cheri Pettitt. “It wasn’t that we had to [sell the 14-unit complex],” said Pettitt.

“It just wasn’t any longer a part of the mission of Arnette House. So, when Interfaith came along and were interested in placing homeless folks in there, we thought that’d be a pretty good transition.” Because the building was originally purchased by the county using federal dollars from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), sale of the building from Arnette House to Interfaith is contingent on the approval of the Marion County Board of County Commissioners (MCBOCC), who manages the lien on the property. The sale is scheduled to go before the MCBOCC on Dec. 7. “I really hope they approve,” said Greenway. “I really want to get this done. My hope was that we would have them in by Thanksgiving, but that very quickly changed. But I’m still hopeful, hoping that we can at least get them in off the streets before Christmas.” The unit was appraised at $1.2 million. Interfaith agreed to put

up another $100,000, making payments to Arnette House interest-free for the next three years. “Because honestly,” explained Greenway, “we were up against for-profit developers. Arnette House could have made a profit; they could have made a really nice profit, but their board, being mindful of the needs of our community, agreed to sell it to us, knowing what we were going to do with it. That‘s why our board felt like the fair thing to do would be to give them a little over the appraised value since they very easily could have made more than that. We wanted to be fair.” Pettitt agreed with Greenway’s assessment of the deal. “We could have sold it on the open market…as I’m sure you’re aware of what real estate prices are right now…but we felt like it would be much better for our community if we were to transition it over to Interfaith, and we were glad to do it,” she said. Greenway admitted that the

Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette

Karla Greenway, the CEO of Interfaith Emergency Services, talks about the newly planned Permanent Support of Housing complex off Northeast 14th Street.

two nonprofits might have slightly different missions, but they both have a similar goal: to improve the lives of each member of the community who needs the help they offer. “They take care of the kids before they’re adults,” said Greenway, “and we tend to take care of them after.” For now, Greenway said she is

patiently waiting for closing day. “On the day that we get the keys for the apartment complex, we’re going to throw together a party and just have a little block party there at the complex,” informed Greenway. “It’ll be wonderful.”

No open lodging arrests in March Continued from A1 Walczak, public information officer for the OPD. “I’m not aware of any complaints that involve a ‘lack of arrests’ of homeless people,” said Walczak. “Officers respond to complaints that involve homeless people very frequently, usually daily. “Recently,” he added, “a homeless man was arrested for stabbing another homeless man in the back with a knife. Another incident involved a homeless man who robbed another homeless man’s backpack.” A homeless man, Jordan Kedar Massiah Frett, was arrested for “robbery by sudden snatching,” according to the affidavit supplied by the OPD, near the Salvation Army located at 320 N.W. 1st Ave on Aug. 17. Additionally, another homeless man, Robert Lucky Catron, was arrested for “aggravated batterydeadly weapon,” according to another affidavit, near Interfaith on Nov. 1.

Names of all victims in both cases were redacted from the arrest affidavits supplied to the press by the OPD on Nov. 5. “Though homeless people are not being arrested for open lodging,” Walczak said, “there are many instances where homeless people are arrested for committing other crimes.” CEO of Interfaith Emergency Services Karla Greenway agreed with the OPD’s assessment of “zero” arrests for open lodging since March. “I haven‘t heard of any,” said Greenway. “Now, there are still some homeless who get arrested for other offenses. We just had some that were arrested for possession of cannabis. But you must realize that a lot of these people are mentally ill, living with untreated conditions. And they basically will take whatever they can get on the street, which is sad, because there is a huge opioid problem going on right now in that population.” She stated further that it’s hard enough for a person with a lot of resources and family support to

overcome an addiction. But for those that are literally alone on the streets with their addictions, it’s next to impossible. “It’s just a very sad reality,” she added. Greenway said that another news source had erroneously reported the stabbing involving Catron occurring at Interfaith itself. She said the incident had more accurately occurred about a block from the shelter. “It wasn‘t our property. We monitor our property. We pay a lot of money to have security Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette on our property. But on the Karla Greenway, the CEO of Interfaith Emergency Services, talks about the newly planned Permanent Support of Housing complex off Northeast 14th Street in Ocala, Fla. streets outside our property, where we have absolutely no authority, that‘s where there‘s an increase or decrease in violence aren‘t the perpetrators of those a lot of drug dealing. That‘s where amongst the homeless population kind of violent acts. It‘s typically the people get assaulted. That‘s why we that frequents Interfaith on any people coming through that beat up try to make a space on our property given day. our homeless residents. for those vulnerable that want to be “It‘s hard to tell,” she said. “The “And we tend to see more of safe.” violence seems to ebb and flow. And that,” she added, “as the weather it correlates, quite honestly, more gets colder.” Since he OPD has reported less with transients coming through open lodging arrests, Greenway [our community]. Our regulars that can’t say for sure if she’s noticed are here on the streets typically

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NOVEMBER 19 - NOVEMBER 25, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

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Editorial COMMENTARY

Counting on City Council Ahhhhhhhhhh Can you hear that? That’s the collective sigh of relief from Ocala residents as the tumultuous city elections season finally draws to a close. After eight weeks of intense battle for the District 3 and District 4 seats due to the the initial election resulting in the need for a special run-off race, the winners have been crowned. Jay Musleh will keep his District 3 seat, which he has held since 2012. Meanwhile, newcomer Kristen Dreyer assumes the District 4 seat vacated by Matthew Wardell. The end of this election means our mailboxes will now be crowded with holiday greeting cards, not slick attack ads. Our neighborhood streets will be dotted with Christmas decor, not campaign signs. It’s the perfect time to shake off the ugly of election season and move on to the holiday season. The holidays provide a special time for reflection. With the races blessedly behind us, we must ask ourselves: What’s next for City Council? How does this group of five very different individuals plan to work together to do what is best for our fair city? How will they make good on their campaign promises? The old adage of “To whom

much has been given, much is expected” seems appropriate for these Council members. They have been given the opportunity to represent the needs and concerns of the residents of their districts. Much is expected of them to follow through on the campaign promises they made and continue moving Ocala forward. Though each candidate campaigned on individual platforms, it is important that they address these issues collectively now that they have reached their respective offices. For example, Dreyer asserted she would encourage greater governmental transparency in regards to how money is spent and how decisions are made by Council. She also noted the need to funnel important resources to West Ocala with the hopes of one day having no divisions in our city just “One Ocala.” Mansfield promised to bring better paying jobs to Ocala and improve city services for residents. He also plans to use his background in construction to ensure smart, managed growth in our city. Hilty, having previously held his City Council seat from 2013-2017, intends to put his time and resources toward

alleviating the homeless issue in downtown Ocala. Musleh, frequently hammered on the campaign trail by the issue of the fire assessment fee and the resulting $80 million judgment, remains committed to growing Ocala’s downtown and bringing more industry to the area. I believe this City Council has enormous potential and will move Ocala in a positive direction. Three of its members (Bethea, Hilty, and Musleh) have the benefit of their years of council experience from which to grow. Mansfield and Dreyer provide a fresh, new perspective as first-time council members. Though there is much excitement about this new crop of City Council members, there is a lot of hard work ahead. Morale at City Hall seems to be at an all-time low as a result of personnel drama (lest we forget the city manager and fire chief debacle of this summer), plummeting retention rates among our city linemen, and the massive $80 million payout expected of the city because of the unconstitutionality of the fire assessment fee. These are just a few of the issues Council faces as they begin a new term. We cannot let the end of election season mean the end

of our engagement with these candidates. We must remain vigilant in ensuring that they are doing what is best for Ocala and its residents. They sit behind the dais, but it is their job to listen to us. So, candidates, enjoy your victories, but know it will soon be time to get to work. We’re counting on you.

Sadie Fitzpatrick Columnist

Editor’s Note:

Sadie Fitzpatrick uses this space to explore the character and quirks that make Ocala uniquely wonderful and occasionally irksome

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Obituary “Toni had a kind and generous heart and she genuinely loved people, letting them know through countless acts of kindness and by being loving and present, even in the smallest of interactions.”

A woman of Strength & Character

Diana Rose (Toni) Steele Diana Rose (Toni) Steele, 81, passed away peacefully Oct. 30 in Ocala. Born Nov. 26, 1939 in Brooklyn to Salvatore Vallone and Rose Schiavelli Vallone, Toni, as she was known to her friends, spent many years in the Saratoga Springs, Glens Falls and Greenwich, New York area before moving to Florida. She was a wonderful wife, mother, daughter, sister and grandmother, friend and entrepreneur, and her family was truly blessed to have been graced with her presence. Toni had a kind and generous heart and she genuinely loved people, letting them know through countless acts of kindness and by being loving and present, even in the smallest of interactions. Toni delighted at the sight of children and would cuddle and kiss any baby she could get her hands on. She was an avowed animal lover and had a deep affinity for plants and flowers; growing things brought her tremendous joy. She often cradled the blooms of her

cherished rose bushes, showing them appreciation for their beauty. She was a fierce and faithful friend, loved to laugh (which she did all the time) and built two successful businesses before she retired. Toni always missed working and never seemed to slow down. She was “soft” in the most beautiful and meaningful ways. Toni had a fantastic innate sense of style and loved to dress for a day or an evening out. She relished a good spin on the dance floor too. She is preceded in death by her parents Sal and Rose Vallone; her sister, Dolores Vallone; her brother Rodney Vallone, and her granddaughter Emily Latalladi. She is survived by her husband William Steele, her children Donna (Tom) Lampkins, Nina Casale, Nick Steele, Deborah Latalladi, Sheri (Tom Marcellus) Steele, Kristi (Greg Worsa) Jennings; nine grandchildren; 12 greatgrandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

NOVEMBER 19 - NOVEMBER 25, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Professors’ Reports Target Elections Law By Dara Kam Florida News Service In expert reports submitted to a federal judge, political science professors embroiled in a controversy with the University of Florida harshly criticized a new state elections law that makes it harder for voters to cast ballots by mail, saying the changes will have a disparately negative impact on Black, Hispanic and disabled voters.

“SB 90 is yet another attempt to disenfranchise Black and Hispanic voters so that they will not be able to elect their preferred representatives,” Sharon Austin UF Professor

The reports were filed on behalf of plaintiffs in a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the law (SB 90), championed by Gov. Ron DeSantis and approved by the

Republican-dominated Florida Legislature this spring. In one of the reports, for example, University of Florida professor Sharon Austin said the new law is a backlash against Black and Hispanic voters’ increased use of early voting and vote-by-mail in the 2020 general election. “SB 90 is yet another attempt to disenfranchise Black and Hispanic voters so that they will not be able to elect their preferred representatives,” she argued. Groups challenging the law hired Austin, Michael McDonald and Daniel Smith, who is chairman of the university’s political science department, to testify as experts. But UF administrators initially rejected the professors’ requests to work for the groups, saying it would be “adverse” to the university’s interests to aid the challenge to the law. A national outcry over the school’s attempts to silence the faculty members led UF President Kent Fuchs to grant permission to the professors to testify as experts and get paid. Fuchs also set up a task force to explore the issue. The tenured professors and three others have filed a separate lawsuit challenging the policy that gives the school discretion in blocking faculty members from testifying against the state. According to court documents filed last week, each of the three political science professors are being paid $450 an hour to serve as

Doug Finger/The Gainesville Sun via AP, File

W. Kent Fuchs reversed the University of Florida’s position on Friday, Nov. 5, 2021 allowing professors to testify as experts in a lawsuit challenging a new state law that critics say restricts voting rights. In a letter to the campus, President Fuchs said he is asking the office responsible for approving professors’ outside work to reverse the recent decision rejecting the professors‘ request to serve as expert witnesses in litigation involving the state of Florida.

experts in the elections lawsuit filed by groups including Florida Rising Together, Hispanic Federation and Equal Ground Education Fund. The law, in part, set new restrictions on the availability and use of drop boxes, where people can drop off vote-by-mail ballots. Under the law, supervisors of elections must have the boxes staffed at all

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times and can only use the boxes during early voting hours and at early voting sites. Supervisors who violate the requirement face $25,000 fines. The drop-box restrictions are “directed at a practice that was used to an unprecedented degree by minority voters” in the 2020 general election, Smith wrote in a

report filed in the lawsuit. The drop-box limits “will curtail in whole or in part 122” drop boxes deployed by supervisors of elections in last year’s general election and “decrease the opportunities of tens of thousands of voters across the state to return their mail ballots,” he found.

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Toys Accepted through December 6 Ocala - Southwest Colin A Barrett 4701 SW College Rd. Suite 104 352-512-9715 Christina L Ebey 2575 SW 42nd St. Suite 107 352-237-2029 Anthony Montemurro 8441 SW Hwy 200 Suite 119 352-327-2008 Kelly Moore 7668 SW 60th Ave. Suite 100 352-237-0379

David R Nettles 8960 SW Hwy 200 Suite 3 352-237-2430 Marc C Stalvey 4701 SW College Rd. Suite 104 352-512-9715 Brittani Tilley 2575 SW 42nd St. Suite 107 352-237-2029

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Ocala - Southeast Brian Wakefield 2157 SE Fort King Street 352-351-9482 John F Walker 3879 SE Lake Weir Road 352-351-0769 Justin Yancey 2157 SE Fort King Street 352-351-9482

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NOVEMBER 19 - NOVEMBER 25, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

At-and over-capacity schools under consideration By Matthew Cretul Ocala Gazette New businesses, distribution centers and families are calling Marion County home and one effect of them doing so is rapid growth in certain geographical areas. As a result, some schools in those quickly developing areas are operating near or at their total capacity, even as future enrollment forecasts show limited growth. At a joint Marion County Board of County Commissioners/Marion County Public Schools workshop this month David Herlihy, the planning & governmental relations manager for Marion County Public Schools, noted in his presentation that despite low projections for enrollments in the coming years, Marion County currently has schools that are considered at or over capacity due to targeted growth within the county. Stephen Ayres, director of school choice for Marion County Public Schools, said specific parts of the county are expanding the quickest. “Southwest Marion County has seen a lot of growth and that is the area where, as a county, we are experiencing the most growth,” Ayres mentioned. Ayres also recognized the dilemma of a current problem that is not expected to transform into a long-term issue and said programs such as Controlled Open Enrollment, also known colloquially as “school choice”, and out of area placements, are two ways the school district mitigates high enrollment numbers in schools dealing with capacity issues. “We don‘t want to make a snap decision on something that may be a temporary problem,” Ayres said. “And so, we do long range planning, but most of the way we handle that is through our open enrollment policies. And also, what schools we open and close.” The Florida Department of Education (DOE) publishes the Florida Inventory of School Houses (FISH), which are guidelines and requirements for measuring a school’s capacity. It’s these guidelines, said Ayres, that dictate when a school is at or over capacity

based on factors such as a school’s size and its student population. In addition to school choice, portables, or “relocatables” as they are known in the school system, are another method Ayres mentioned MCPS utilizes to help alleviate some capacity issues. “We do ship portables from school to school. College Park [Elementary], had some overcrowding so we shifted some portables from Oakcrest [Elementary] that has some extra capacity to College Park,” Ayres said. While portables can help provide some temporary relief, Ayres pointed out that they have some considerations. Not only is there a cost to physically move the portables but there are infrastructure needs that must be met. “Take Belleview Middle School for example. Even though the school has a lot more land space [than some other schools in the county] to possibly put portables on, there‘s not the infrastructure, the plumbing, the electrical systems in place to support them,” Ayres said. Outside of infrastructure concerns, portables are not a viable solution for schools such as Eighth Street Elementary School and Osceola Middle School, two schools that often face capacity issues, because Ayres noted, they do not possess the physical space to expand. “Schools like Eighth Street or Osceola, which are landlocked and confined, we don‘t have the ability to add more portables to them. That‘s why we have a strict ‘You have to live in the zone to be able to get in there’ policy at schools like that,” Ayres added. While it may seem like a feasible solution for MCPS to build new schools or add additional space in existing schools to alleviate capacity issues, Ayres said that decision must come from the DOE. “The problem with adding capacity with the schools, even if it’s a district problem, is in order for us to build capacity we have to have approval from DOE,” he stated “We can‘t just, as a district, go out and say, ‘Well, I want to build a school here.’ There‘s an application

Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette

Fifth graders march through the halls and walk out of the school for the last time at Eighth Street Elementary School in Ocala, Fla.

process, because we have to make sure there‘s equity in all the schools that are being built in the school district. And, also, we have to prove capacity or the need to DOE to be able to use tax dollars to do that.” Because of the targeted growth, while some schools face capacity issues, Ayres pointed out, those in less growth-heavy portions of the county do not. “We have schools in the north end of the county which have lots of open capacity. And, so, DOE won‘t let us build either another school or add wings or add capacity to other schools when we have empty seats at other schools,” he said. With building additions off the table as an option to reduce the current capacity issues, Ayres noted other possible solutions but said each has their own concerns. “[If we can’t build additions onto existing schools], that‘s when we have to look at possibly rezoning, busing, different things like that to try to alleviate overcrowding. But

then, of course, at that point you have to judge ‘is this a temporary situation or is this more of a longterm solution?’ And once you start moving boundaries, that opens up a whole different process which can cause situations and issues on its own,” he shared. Additionally, Ayres pointed out that the physical size of the county presents its own set of considerations, especially when it comes to zoning and districting. “We have Fort McCoy middle and elementary schools, which have plenty of capacity to receive students. But in that zone, say Fort McCoy Elementary School, that zone is probably 10 times the size of say Eighth Street Elementary. So, the kids are riding a bus because it‘s so sporadically populated,” he said. “Once you start to try to draw a zone to encompass more students,” Ayres continued, “you then encroach on other school’s zones. You know, Ocala Springs [Elementary] would be in the Fort

McCoy zone and we can‘t have that.” And COVID-19 added another variable into the situation. “[When COVID hit] we did see a lot of movement out of Marion County but then we did see a lot of movement into Marion County because Marion County schools were open last year, whereas from other states they weren‘t. So, parents were moving into Marion County because the schools were open. That was unpredictable, we couldn‘t predict that…that will forever be a two-year asterisk, so to speak, on our long-range forecasting,” he added. Despite the current issue of capacity at some Marion County Schools, during his presentation at the joint workshop, Herlihy’s future enrollment forecasting showed MCPS could expect to see between 50 to 350 new student enrollments per year in the upcoming years.

Regarding hospitalization numbers, Health and Human Services data show 85 percent of all inpatient beds in Marion County hospitals are filled with 4 percent of those being COVID patients. Further, 89 percent of local ICU beds are occupied with 6 percent being COVID patients.

MCPS UPDATE Marion County Public Schools

Students and MCPS employees in quarantine rose, however, with MCPS reporting 195 individuals as quarantined due to direct contact with someone testing positive for COVID-19, up from the 125 reported last week. There were 191 students and 4 employees reported in quarantine in the latest report.

COVID UPDATE MARION COUNTY UPDATE COVID numbers in Marion

County once again fell last week as the county registered 128 new cases, according to figures released by the Florida Department of Health Friday evening, down from 151 cases the previous week. Along with the falling cases, both the county’s positivity rate and cases per 100,000 also fell. The positivity rate dropped from 3.3 percent to 2.6 percent and the cases per 100,000 went from 40.5 to 34.4. According to a New York Times COVID Tracker, since the beginning of the pandemic, at least 1 in 6 Marion County residents have been infected with COVID with the county seeing a total of 57,048 reported cases. Trends in Marion County were also seen statewide with the State of Florida recording 10,746 new cases of COVID-19 during the week of Nov. 5 to Nov. 11, maintaining a downward trend in cases that began on Aug. 13. The state’s vaccination rates dropped for the second straight week, as the state recorded administering 398,949 doses, bringing the population of the state vaccinated to 67 percent of those ages 5 and up. Additionally, the state reported 44,694 doses of the vaccine have been administered to children

ages 5 to 11. The total population of children ages 5 to 11 in the state is just under 1.7 million. Locally, Marion County reported 1,034 individuals vaccinated last week. However, according to Bill Thompson, a spokesperson with the Florida Department of Health – Marion County, the state does not track county-level vaccination numbers by age range breakdown, so it is unknown how many of the county’s children in the 5 to 11 age range are vaccinated.

New reported Covid-19 cases per week

(MCPS) recorded 16 total new cases for the week of Nov. 6 to Nov. 12, as 13 students and 3 employees were confirmed COVID-19 positive by the Florida Department of Health in Marion County. The figures, released Monday morning, are similar to the 16 cases reported on both Oct. 25 and Nov. 1.

Aug. 27:

3,500

3,228

3,000 2,500

Nov. 8 - Nov. 12

2,000

Nov. 12:

1,500 1,000 500

128

June 25:

0 Source: 25 2 Marion County Health DepartmentJUNE

16 JULY

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

5 12 NOV.

Christopher Smith/OG

NOVEMBER 19 - NOVEMBER 25, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

City of Ocala‘s

New Council

Dreyer, Musleh win runoff election By James Blevins & Matthew Cretul Ocala Gazette At the next regularly scheduled council meeting, there will be three new council members. After the runoff elections held on

DISTRICT 3 RUNOFF DETAILS

Incumbent Jay Musleh won Tuesday’s runoff election for Ocala City Council’s District 3 seat over challenger Ty Schlichter. Musleh took 54.91% of the vote in the citywide election defeating Schlichter by a vote of 3,278 to 2,692 (45.09%), according to unofficial results from the Marion County Supervisor of Elections Office. “It feels good,” said Musleh via phone after all 19 precincts were reported. “It feels very good. It’s a very humbling experience but also gratifying at the end—I just can’t tell you.” Musleh received 1,104 election-day votes and 2,174 votes by mail. Schlichter received 925 election-day votes and 1,767 votes by mail. Musleh was first elected to the seat in 2012. Neither candidate earned a majority of votes during the Sept. 21 election, necessitating Tuesday’s runoff.

Tuesday, the city council is now made up of Barry Mansfield representing District 1, Ire Bethea, Sr. representing District 2, Jay Musleh representing District 3, Kristen Dreyer representing District 4, and Jim Hilty representing District 5. District 1 and District 5 seats were decided in the city election that took place

On Sept. 21, Musleh received 3,981 votes, or 43.22% of the total. Schlichter, meanwhile, received 2,788 votes, or 30.26% of the total. Rusty Juergens placed third in the three-candidate race, receiving 2,443 votes, or 26.52% of the total.

DISTRICT 4 RUNOFF DETAILS

Kristen Dreyer won the other runoff election on Tuesday in the race for Ocala City Council’s District 4 seat. Dreyer defeated fellow challenger Lori Martin Gregory. District 4 seat became when Matt Wardell announced his resignation in August of this year Dreyer received 52.48% of the vote in the citywide election, beating Martin Gregory by a vote of 3,116 to 2,821 (47.52%), according to unofficial results from the Marion County Supervisor of Elections Office’s website. “Ocala elected me tonight because they

on Sept. 21. However, district 3 and 4 seats required a runoff election since none of the candidates for those seats got at least 50% of the vote plus one in order to win. This is a requirement of the Ocala City Charter, according to Wesley Wilcox, the Marion County Supervisor of Elections.

are electing to move Ocala forward,” said Dreyer. “I am humbled and will work harder than anyone ever has. Thank you, Ocala. Tonight we celebrate, tomorrow we get to work!” Dreyer received 897 election-day votes and 2,219 votes by mail, while Martin Gregory received 1,127 election-day votes and 1,694 votes by mail. From 38,464 registered voters, 6,033 total ballots were cast on Tuesday for a voter turnout of 15.68%. Dreyer and Martin Gregory emerged from a crowded September primary election that saw six challengers vying for the council seat. Dreyer received the most votes in the September election with 2,822, or 30.94% of the total votes cast. Martin Gregory, meanwhile, received 2,443 votes, or 26.76% of the vote.

JAY MUSLEH

District 3 WON

KRISTEN DREYER

District 4 WON

Vet‘s

Solutions to Move Your Business Forward

Corner The Ocala Gazette is partnering with Marion County Veterans Services to bring upcoming meetings, events and general info relevant to veterans. Watch the space in the future for upcoming events, deadlines, and meetings that pertain to veterans or veterans services.

INFORMATION

The VA extended the presumptive period for reporting qualifying chronic disabilities rated 10% or more resulting from undiagnosed illnesses in Persian Gulf War Veterans from Dec. 31, 2021, to Dec. 31, 2026 to ensure benefits established by Congress are fairly administered.

MEETINGS

The next monthly meeting of the Marion County Veterans Council will be on Thursday, December 16, 2021, at 10:00 in the Conference room of the Veteran’s Resource Center located at 2730 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala, FL 34470

EVENTS

Tuesday, Dec 7 - Pearl Harbor Remembrance- 2 pm @ Timber Ridge Center for Rehab and Healing -9448 SW 110th St., Ocala, Fl For questions or additional information, contact matthew@ocalagazette.com

we make sure banking isn’t one of them. We strive to understand the complexities of your business and we’re ready to partner with you to provide the banking services and insight you need to keep your business moving forward.

Rusty Branson, Regional President 1632 East Silver Springs Boulevard • Ocala, FL 352.368.6800 • SouthStateBank.com Member FDIC

Correction- the caption for this photo in last week’s edition should have read: Virginia C. “Frenchie” Bisiaux, a U.S. Army veteran who fought in 5 combat tours including Iraq and Afghanistan, is shown in a 2007 photo on her graduation day from basic combat training. [Courtesy Virginia C. “Frenchie” Bisiaux] 2021.

NOVEMBER 19 - NOVEMBER 25, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Probate & guardianship cases

experience court delays By Jennifer Hunt Murty Ocala Gazette Marion County’s sizeable probate and guardianship dockets are currently short a judge, and in the case of guardianships: facing additional scrutiny by the Clerk of Court’s office. Due to the recent retirement of Judge Sue Robbins, as of Oct. 31, and Judge William H. Hallman III, effective Dec. 31, as well as judicial reassignments throughout the Fifth Judicial Circuit, the judicial shortage affecting the probate and guardianship dockets has become more acute as of late. The Fifth Judicial Circuit includes Marion, Citrus, Sumter, Hernando, and Lake counties. Faced with being short one judge, Marion County Administrative Judge William R. Hodges had to prioritize the dependency delinquency docket left vacant with Robbins’ retirement because cases involving children who might be in crisis “are on the top of the list of priorities set by the Supreme Court,” said Hodges. “And due to the nature of those cases, the Supreme Court requires judges with experience handle the docket- so it’s not like I can’t just assign any judge.” Hodges currently says that docket is on rotation split between several judges with that experience. Judge Youmans (who still splits her time between Sumter and Marion counties) presides over it on Monday, Judge Stancil presides over it on Tuesday, Judge Hatcher Wednesday and Thursday, and Ann Melinda Craggs on Friday.

GETTING A REPLACEMENT JUDGE

When judges retire early, rather than host a special election to replace the judge, a judicial nominating committee, prompted by the governor, recommends a handful of suitable candidates for appointment. The Office of the Governor issued a letter, dated Sept. 28, to the chair of the Fifth Judicial Circuit Judicial Nominating Committee (JNC), Shanta Matthews, tasking the committee with selecting and submitting the “names of highly qualified for lawyers” to fill the judicial vacancies to the governor. The initial deadline for the JNC to submit their recommendation to the governor

was Oct. 29, but Matthews said it was extended to Nov. 18. Twelve lawyers applied for consideration. The JNC will hold interviews on Nov. 16 and then immediately deliberate their recommendations to the governor to meet the Nov. 18 deadline. Recently, in the case of the appointment of Lori Cotton to fill the judicial vacancy following the retirement of Sarah Ritterhoff, this same JNC recommendation and governor appointment process took approximately a month. Marion County’s Administrative Judge, Robert W. Hodges, says he grew concerned that the nominating process didn’t start earlier following Robbins’ summer retirement announcement. As a result, by the end of August, Hodges started reaching up to alert court administration for the fifth circuit and state legislatures. As it stands now, Hodges expects to be short a judge at least 60 days and created a plan with the goal to “get through to January.” Hodges’ plan includes having eight circuit judges take one-week rotations to address the needs of the probate and guardianship dockets while handling their regular caseloads. Hodges felt that this arrangement would result in lawyers getting their requests answered usually within a week. This means that rather than working with one judge assigned to a matter from beginning to end, a petitioner or their attorney would set hearings or submit requests for relief to whichever judge is assigned to that docket for a particular week. While it’s not uncommon for judges to be assigned multiple dockets, the number of probate and guardianship cases in Marion County are substantially more than what Citrus or Sumter counties have. As of Nov. 1, Marion County had 2,899 open guardianship and probate cases, whereas Citrus and Sumter counties each reported a little less than 1,000. Annually, Marion County’s guardianship and probate filings are more than twice that of Sumter and Citrus counties.

Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette

The Marion County Judicial Center is shown in Ocala, Fla.

guardianship docket faced other challenges as well. The Clerk of the Court is responsible for reviewing guardianship accountings and informing judges whether the filings meet statutory requirements. That office has also had significant changes this year. To start, long term Clerk of Court, David Ellspermann, retired, and Gregory Harrell stepped into the role at the beginning of the year. According to Katie Hunnicutt, spokesperson for the Clerk of Court, the department within the Clerk’s office that handled the guardianship cases experienced the retirement of one staff member as well as the resignation of another who left for the private sector this year.

The departures of those employees “provided us with an opportunity to reassign various tasks and responsibilities within the department,” said Hunnicutt. However, Hunnicutt pointed to the other challenge: guardianship cases facing increased scrutiny due to fraud. In a Sept. 27 report by the Florida Bar Association, a task force, created by the Florida Court Clerks & Comptrollers, took a “closer look at how hospitals and nursing homes pursue guardianships for patients” as well as explored ways “to allow judges to order an independent investigation of a guardianship, using supportive decision making as an alternative to guardianships, and setting up a public statewide database on

professional guardians that would include the number of cases they handle and disciplinary history.” That task force issued recommendations following its final meeting on Sept. 23 that included, among other things, a more uniform system for reporting and additional guardianship monitoring options for judges to utilize. As a result of the task force recommendations and in anticipation of the task force’s full report, Hunnicutt said that the clerk’s office has tasked a certified accountant from their finance department “to assist with the statutorily-mandated review and audit of accountings prepared by attorneys and professional guardians.”

What cases are on the guardianship docket?

Includes appointment and administration of guardianships for minors and adults who need someone to care for their affairs in their entirety or in a limited capacity- whether it for business or medical related reasons. New filings have stayed consistent over the years: 158 cases in 2016; 175 in 2017; 158 in 2018; 210 in 2019; 163 in 2020; and as of Nov. 2, 159 for 2020.

What cases are on the probate docket?

Requests for relief associated with the administration of an estate following a death. That docket is substantially larger, with 2,282 new filings in 2016; 2,231 in 2017; 2,267 in 2018; 2,327 in 2019; 2,400 in 2020; and 2,535 as of Nov. 2 for 2021.

INCREASED SCRUTINY AND STAFF CHANGES

In addition to the shortfall of judicial appointments, the

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NOVEMBER 19 - NOVEMBER 25, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

State News House backs moving away from OSHA By Jim Saunders Florida News Service With Republicans angry about a vaccination rule issued by the federal Occupational and Safety and Health Administration, the Florida House on Wednesday approved a proposal that could lead to the state taking over regulation of worker safety and health issues. The GOP-controlled House voted 76-38 along almost straight party lines to pass a bill (HB 5B) that would direct Gov. Ron DeSantis to develop a plan for the state to move away from OSHA oversight. The Senate also is expected to pass the bill before adjourning a special legislative session that started Monday. House bill sponsor Ardian Zika, R-Land O’ Lakes, pointed to the OSHA vaccination rule, which was issued this month and would apply to employers with 100 or more workers. Those workers would have to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or test negative at least once a week and wear masks. DeSantis and other Republicans have argued the rule will lead to workers losing jobs if they don’t comply. “Forced firing of Floridians is not the Florida way,” Zika said. “It

is not the role of government to pick and choose which employee is fired.” But Democrats said lawmakers should not have taken up the issue during the special session, as it is not urgent. “This is special session, and this bill ain’t special,” Rep. Ramon Alexander, D-Tallahassee, said. Under the bill, DeSantis would have to report back to the Legislature by Jan. 17 about efforts to put together the plan. Ultimately, the federal government would have to sign off on a state plan before it could move forward. Zika said this week that the process could take two to three years. If the plan moves forward in the future, Florida would join numerous other states that regulate worker safety and health. A House analysis said 21 states and Puerto Rico operate plans that cover private and government employees. Another five states and the U.S. Virgin Islands operate plans that cover government employees, according to the analysis. But the idea emerged in Florida after OSHA issued the vaccination rule, which would take effect Jan. 4. Florida joined Georgia and Alabama in filing a federal-court challenge

Photo supplied from the Florida House of Representatives

Rep. Ardian Zika, R-Land O‘ Lakes, sponsored a bill that could lead to the state moving away from the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

to the rule. That challenge was consolidated Tuesday with similar cases across the country and will be heard in the Cincinnati-based 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. Rep. James Bush, D-Miami, was the only House member

to cross party lines on the bill Wednesday, joining Republicans in support. Other Democrats pointed to political motivations of Republicans. “If you are trying to make a point, congratulations, you did it,” Rep. Anna Eskamani, D-Orlando,

said. But Zika said Florida would be better situated to oversee worker safety and health issues. “Florida knows Florida better than Washington, D.C. will ever know Florida,” he said.

Lawmakers reject carving out health providers By Jim Saunders Florida News Service

Florida lawmakers sped Tuesday toward passing a plan to prevent COVID-19 vaccination requirements and rejected an attempt to exclude hospitals, nursing homes and other healthcare providers from the measure. The House, during the second day of a special legislative session called by Gov. Ron DeSantis, took up the plan and is poised to pass it Wednesday. The plan also cleared the Senate Appropriations Committee, preparing it to go to the full Senate on Wednesday.

“This bill creates a tug of war between the state and the federal government, with our healthcare providers being the rope that is being pulled back and forth,” Rep. Carlos Guillermo Smith D-Orlando

The House and Senate are considering identical bills (HB 1B and SB 2-B) to prevent vaccination requirements, with Republicans rejecting Democratic attempts to make changes. That included the House on Tuesday rejecting a proposed amendment to carve out hospitals, nursing homes and other health-care providers that take part in the Medicaid and Medicare

programs. The state plan conflicts with a rule issued this month by the federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services that seeks to require health-care workers to be vaccinated against COVID-19. If health-care providers do not comply with federal rule, they would face financial penalties. Rep. Carlos Guillermo Smith, D-Orlando, said health-care providers have asked to be excluded from the state plan because of fears that they could lose federal funding. He said they should not be put in an “impossible position for the sake of politics as usual in Tallahassee.” “This bill creates a tug of war between the state and the federal government, with our health-care providers being the rope that is being pulled back and forth,” said Smith, who proposed the amendment. But the Republican-dominated House rejected Smith’s proposal in a 78-40 vote. Rep. Erin Grall, a Vero Beach Republican who is co-sponsoring the bill, expressed confidence that the federal rule will be blocked in legal challenges. “At that time, we believe that this (state) legislation will be the rule of law in Florida, and it will be clear for private employers and Medicaid and Medicare recipients that they must comply with our law,” Grall said. DeSantis called the special session, at least in part, to push back against the Biden administration on vaccination mandates. Lawmakers are expected to pass four measures during the session, including one (HB 5B and SB 6-B) that could lead to the state regulating worker safety and moving away from oversight by the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration. That proposal came after OSHA issued a rule this month that would require tens of millions of

Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette

Kristina McClellan, a registered nurse, left, gets her face shield disinfected by Cece Bellot, a registered nurse, right, during the COVID-19 drive-thru testing at the Florida Department of Health Marion County in Ocala, Fla.

workers nationwide to be vaccinated against COVID-19 or be regularly tested and wear masks. Florida is challenging the rule in federal court. The main legislation of the session is designed to prevent worker vaccination requirements. Under the proposal, privatesector workers could avoid vaccination requirements if they provide medical reasons, religious reasons or can demonstrate “COVID-19 immunity.” Also, they could be exempt if they agree to regular COVID-19 testing or agree to wear personal protective equipment.

The legislation also would bar government agencies from requiring workers to be vaccinated. But the state plan clashes with the federal health-care provider rule, which calls for workers to be fully vaccinated by Jan. 4. The federal rule includes vaccination exemptions for medical and religious reasons under laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Civil Rights Act. But those exemptions are significantly narrower than what is included in the state plan. Steve Bahmer, president and CEO of the long-term care

industry group LeadingAge Florida, issued a statement Friday that said the state plan could make it impossible for providers to comply with both the state and federal directives. “Nursing homes must comply with the federal rule because the federal law trumps state law,” Bahmer said. “The loss of Medicaid and Medicare funding would be devastating to providers and could ultimately displace Florida’s most frail elders.”

NOVEMBER 19 - NOVEMBER 25, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Briefs

State News

RETAILERS EXPECT HOLIDAY SHOPPING BOOST

DeSantis pitches money for Everglades

By Florida News Service

Bruce Ackerman/ Ocala Gazette

According to the Florida Retail Federation, the state‘s retailers expect record sales this holiday season, with increases of about 10 percent over 2020. The industry group said the average consumer is expected to spend $998 on gifts over the next month and a half. The sales expectations come at the same time that the country grapples with supply-chain problems. Florida Retail Federation President Scott Shalley said most stores had planned ahead, but some items, such as electronics, could be challenging to find as the holidays get closer. “If you get the opportunity, and there is an item you really have got to have, and you find it, I would go ahead and get it,” Shalley said. “We don‘t anticipate widespread shortages, but there certainly will be some items that aren‘t as easily found on the shelves.” The holiday shopping season is the most significant time of the year for stores, which make 20 to 40 percent of their annual sales during the month before Christmas.

Gov. Ron DeSantis said Tuesday he will request $660 million for Everglades restoration efforts and $550 million for coastal resiliency in budget proposals for the 2022-2023 fiscal year. DeSantis said the request would bring to about $1 billion the money for a resiliency program aimed at combating rising sea levels. “I think that will make us more able to handle some extreme weather events, help handle flooding, all these other things,” DeSantis said while at the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve in Naples. DeSantis is expected to release a full budget proposal in early December. Lawmakers will use that proposal as a starting point in negotiating a budget during the legislative session that will start Jan. 11. DeSantis has started to gradually release details of his proposal, including environmental details on Tuesday. The proposal includes $40 million for alternative water supplies, $50 million for natural springs, $50 million to protect coral reefs and $35 million to combat harmful algae blooms. The proposal continues a 2019 pledge by DeSantis to spend $2.5 billion over four years for environmental projects, an amount

Patrick Connolly/Orlando Sentinel via AP

Donna Kalil, a python hunter who removes invasive Burmese pythons, shows some of her recent catches.

he said will be surpassed during the 2022-2023 fiscal year. He said the state will also increase spending on efforts to eradicate pythons from the Everglades. “We‘ve made a lot of progress, but there‘s a lot of these pythons there,” DeSantis said. “They‘re not easy to find. We‘ll also put some of this money if there‘s new gizmos that come out that can identify these pythons easier.”

WORKERS’ COMP RATES TO GO DOWN IN 2022

Patrick Connolly/Orlando Sentinel via AP

If you can’t beat ‘em, eat ’em. It’s an old saying, one that could easily have originated here in the Sunshine State where invasive species aren’t limited to baby-oiled tourists and bluehaired retirees. There are hundreds of them, in fact, wreaking havoc from the reefs to the treetops, causing millions of dollars of damage and killing native species both directly and indirectly.

Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette

PANDEMIC UNEMPLOYMENT CLAIMS Tuesday, Nov.16, the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity released updated data about the cost of unemployment claims since March 15, 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic started causing massive job losses. Here are some takeaways:

Bruce Ackerman/ Ocala Gazette

Florida employers will see an average 4.9 percent decrease in workers’ compensation insurance rates in 2022, under an order issued last Friday by state Insurance Commissioner David Altmaier. The order matched the 4.9 percent drop proposed in August by the National Council on Compensation Insurance, which makes rate filings for the workers’ compensation industry. “Safer workplaces, innovative techniques, and improved risk management practices have resulted in the continued decline in workers compensation claims, ultimately benefiting Florida businesses,” Altmaier said in a prepared statement. In a summary of its filing, the organization known as NCCI pointed to “unprecedented results” in the workers’ compensation insurance system. “These results are due to a combination of underwriting discipline, declining frequency (of claims), moderating severity, and adequate reserves,” the summary said. “With few annual exceptions, frequency has continued a decades-long downward course driven by technology, safer workplaces, improved risk management and a longterm shift from manufacturing to service sectors.” The order followed a series of earlier workers’ compensation rate cuts, including an average 6.6 percent decrease that took effect in January.

31,832,436,687: Dollars paid to unemployment claimants. 24,472,452,945: Federal dollars paid to unemployment claimants 7,359,983,742: State dollars paid to unemployment claimants. 7,273,571: Claims received by the Department of Economic Opportunity. 6,095,330: “Unique” claims received by the Department of Economic Opportunity. 3,345,975: “Unique” claimants. 5,821,704: Claims processed. 2,541,743: Eligible claims processed. 2,433,192: Total claimants paid Source: Florida Department of Economic Opportunity

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NOVEMBER 19 - NOVEMBER 25, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Briefly around Ocala Council Amends Budget Council amends budget to include pay increases for 250 OPD employees By Jennifer Murty Ocala Gazette

Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette

A parking meter is shown on Southwest Broadway Street in Ocala, Fla.

Free Parking throughout downtown Ocala for the holiday season

Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette

Ocala Police Chief Mike Balken talks to the Ocala City Council during an Ocala City Council meeting at Ocala City Hall in Ocala, Fla. on Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2020

By James Blevins Ocala Gazette At the Ocala City Council meeting on Nov. 16, City Manager Sandra Wilson informed the council that downtown meters would be bagged from Dec. 6 to Jan. 2. The city is providing free parking in all metered spaces to celebrate the holidays and support local businesses in downtown Ocala, according to a Nov. 17 press release from the city. The parking meter rates of 50 cents per hour will not be in effect during this time either. However, the time limit of three hours per space, for most spaces, will still be enforced. Normal parking operations downtown will resume Monday, Jan. 3. “The holidays are a special time of year and we want visitors and guests to enjoy everything our downtown has to offer. Providing free metered parking has become an annual holiday tradition, much like the lights that decorate the historic square,” said Wilson in Wednesday’s press release. “This is our opportunity to provide a gift to our citizens and visitors during the holiday seasons.” For more information, please contact the City of Ocala at (352) 629-8201.

Join the

The Ocala City Council unanimously voted Tuesday to approve Ocala Police Chief Mike Balken’s request to amend the 2021-2022 budget to appropriate salary adjustments for the department’s staff for a total sum of $2,137,018. Balken said the additional funds will be used to give salary increases to nearly 250 positions, both sworn and non-sworn within the department. Balken said the amount of increase will depend “upon time-in-grade for each employee within their current position.” Balken told council during the Tuesday meeting that, like other employers in the region, he was having a hard time filling certain positions within the department. Balken reported 17 total current vacancies, with 20 police officers in training or recruit school. “This adjustment was requested due to current trends (competition) in the private

sector, along with a need to stay competitive with other law enforcement agencies in our region. This should ease the challenges we’ve been facing with recruitment and retention of qualified employees,” wrote Balken in response to the Gazette’s inquiry following the meeting. “I intend to complete our long-term strategic plan prior to the new budget process, which will begin in January. That plan will include growing the agency to ensure we can continue to deliver police services at the level our citizens deserve. In order to attract the most qualified personnel, we first needed to ensure salaries were competitive,” wrote Balken. In addition to the approval of pay raises, City Council members also previously supported the chief ’s budget requests at the start of the Oct. 1st fiscal year to fund additional job posts: four 911 dispatchers, one 911 supervisor, one part time records technician and one latent fingerprint examiner.

New restaurant

approved to open inside historic train station By James Blevins Ocala Gazette On Nov. 16, the City of Ocala approved a five-year lease agreement for a new restaurant to open inside the historic Ocala Union Station, located at 531 N.E. First Ave. Owned by Terrance Marince and Matt Reber, the restaurant, called Depot on Magnolia, will only have to pay $500 a month in rent for the first fiscal year, and $1,000 a month the following four years, according to the lease approved by the council. And according to the exhibits to the lease agreement, almost all the major restaurant equipment is already in place. The rest of the station has been transformed into an art incubator.

Previously, Dee Dee’s Diner closed after 10 years because of economic conditions caused by COVID-19 in December of Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette 2020. The City of The old Dee Dee‘s Dog House buidling is shown with Union Station in Ocala Procurement the background in Ocala, Fla. on Wednesday, Nov. 17, 2021. Department issued a Request for Proposal The selection committee was (RFP) on June 1. composed of three city staff members, Four proposals were up for review: according to Ashley Dobbs, marketing Epic Consulting aka Big Lee’s BBQ, and communications manager for Pop’s Place, The Foundation Wilson, the City of Ocala: one person from and The Lion & The Bull, Inc., aka Community Redevelopment Area Marince and Reber. Epic Consulting (CRA), one person from facilities, and and The Lion & The Bull were shortone person from finance, respectively. listed. On Sept. 1, the city’s selection committee chose Marince and Reber’s bid as the top choice.

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NOVEMBER 19 - NOVEMBER 25, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Briefly around Marion Sheriff’s request for put on hold pending new funding source By Matthew Cretul Ocala Gazette The Marion County Board of County Commissioners (MCBOCC) voted unanimously at their regularly scheduled meeting on Nov 16 to deny Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods’ request for a new BearCat, or SWAT armored vehicle but voiced their overall support for the purchase.. In a letter to the MCBOCC dated October 28, 2021, Woods outlined a plan to return a total of $686,424 of unused funds from the 2020-2021 budget along with a request to use the returned money towards purchasing a BearCat armored vehicle and remodel and expansion plans for the sheriff ’s operation building. During a discussion on the matter, Commissioner Jeff Gold stated, “I would totally support that vehicle purchase…but I think it

could come out of the [penny} sales tax.” Commissioner Kathy Bryant agreed. “The board is not in any way, shape or form saying that this purchase is not necessary, we’re just trying to make sure it’s funded from the appropriate source,” she said. According to Woods’ letter, there is a need for the SWAT team to have a new BearCat to replace the older model that has been in service for 16 years. “The updated BearCat will be on a more heavy-duty chassis and will provide better reliability. It has updated design and technology that will help provide improved safety for SWAT team members,” he wrote. The sheriff indicated that the purchase of the BearCat had previously been pulled as a priority for funding from the penny sales tax revenue and cost $350,000.

CUMMINGS AND CAMPBELL NOW LEADING MARION COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD

Audrey Fowler, budget director for the Marion County Clerk of Courts and Comptroller, noted during the meeting that there was an excess of $550,000 above projections from the penny sales tax and it would be possible to fund the new purchase from those funds. County Administrator Mounir Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette Bouyounes The Marion County Sheriff‘s Office SWAT Team indicated he was 2006 Lenco Bearcat armored vehicle iat the Marion still reviewing the County Sheriff‘s Office. Sheriff Billy Woods is trying to find funding so that the Sheriff‘s Office can buy five-year penny sales tax budget a new, upgraded Bearcat for the SWAT Team to use. and could consult with the sheriff about adding the purchase if the board so chose.

Farm City Week

Marion County Celebrates Farm City Week, inducts longtime IFAS agent into Ag Hall of Fame By Matthew Cretual Ocala Gazette The Marion County Board of County Commissioners declared the week of November 17 – 24, 2021 as “Farm City Week” at their regularly scheduled meeting on Nov 16. The board presented Lynn Nobles, the director of the UF/IFAS Extension - Marion County with a proclamation recognizing the impact agriculture and related fields have on Marion County.

Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette

Left Featured Rev. Eric Cummings now head of Marion County School Board, standing next to Allison Cambell, now elected vice chair.

By Ocala Gazette Reverend Eric Cummings has been chosen to lead the Marion County School Board as its chair following a reorganizational meeting on Tuesday. Allison Campbell, the only other board member nominated for the chair position, was unanimously elected vice-chair. Cummings and Campbell were chosen by fellow MCSB members Don Browning, Kelly King, and Nancy Thrower. Cummings is a pastor and former corrections officer elected to the school board by Marion County voters in 2018. As chair, Cummings will lead twice-monthly board meetings as well as year-round work sessions. He represents district three, which includes schools in Southwest Marion County. Campbell, a public relations practitioner and adjunct college professor, was elected to the MCSB in 2020. She represents district one, which covers schools in Southeast Marion County. Board members also voted to adopt the same meeting schedule as in years past. Board meetings will continue to be held on the second and fourth Tuesdays monthly at 5:30 p.m. at 512 SE Third Street in Ocala.

“Mark spent a lot of time going out to each of the farms visiting with the industry people. I think he is a very well deserving person,” Lynn Nobels Director of UF/IFAS Extension

Farm City Week is put on annually by Florida Farm Bureau, the state’s largest agricultural organization, and is a time to give thanks for the valuable partnerships between urban and rural residents. Agriculture is a large part of the county’s identity, says Noble. Marion County is number one in Florida in the horse industry, the sheep industry, and the goat industry. and tenth in cattle. Noble also pointed out there are nearly 4,000 farms in Marion County. And out of those, 3,200 of them are smaller (usually horse) farms from one to 50 acres.

Those farms provide not just food, but also jobs to the area. According to University of Florida estimates, there are just over 37,500 jobs in agriculture in Marion County, or in related fields, and ag brings in $2.06 billion, or 19.7% into the gross regional product. In addition to Farm City Week, this week is also when members are inducted into the Marion County Agriculture Hall of Fame. Started in 2003, the Marion County Ag Hall of Fame “has been recognizing individuals who have made tremendous achievements and contributions to The late Mark Shuffitt. the furtherance of agriculture in our community,” according to its webpage. The 2021 inductee, Mark Shuffitt, will be posthumously inducted during a banquet on Thurs. Nov 18. Nobles said Shuffitt is an incredibly worthy nominee who focused his energy on agriculture and its role in Marion County. “Mark spent a lot of time going out to each of the farms visiting with the industry people. I think he is a very well deserving person,” Nobles said. “Plus, he was active in Cattleman’s [the Florida Cattlemen‘s Association], and the different organizations like that. He was a very, very good man that put a lot of heart into agriculture and the community.” Not only was he active in annual events such as the Southeastern Youth Fair, but Nobles noted that he also founded a group of extension agents who work primarily

Supplied Photo

with the equine industry. The group, Central Florida Livestock Agents Group (CFLAG) , hosts a yearly equine Institute. Also being honored at the banquet on Thurs along with the 2021 Mark Shuffitt are 2020 inductees Jerry Arthur and Lugusta “Gus” Gray. Their induction comes a year later as COVID prevented a banquet last year.

A12

NOVEMBER 19 - NOVEMBER 25, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Cyrus Rug Gallery

NOVEMBER 19 - NOVEMBER 25, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

People, Places & Things TO BE HONORED at the

2021 MEMORIAL SERVICE 1998

David L. Abernathy Palm Beach Fire Rescue

FALLEN FIREFIGHTERS

2010

Walter “Pete” Gee

Fort Myers Shores Fire Protection & Recue Service District

2011

recognized for their sacrifice BRUCE ACKERMAN/Ocala Gazette

Members of the Florida State Fire College Honor Guard Rifle Team are silhouetted as they practice firing a 21-gun salute during the Florida State Fire College Honor Guard Academy training at Highland Memorial Park in Ocala, on Nov. 16.

Jeremy J. Saunders

Orlando International Airport Fire Rescue

2016

Randall M. Donaldson, Jr. Osceola County Fire Rescue

2018

William C. Donaldson Sarasota County Fire Department

2019

By Marian Rizzo

very year at this time, fallen firefighters are recognized for their sacrifices during an annual get- together that draws hundreds of firefighters, rescue personnel, and families of fallen firefighters from throughout the state of Florida to Marion County. The annual event includes special presentations by color guards and honor guards, including a concert of bagpipes and drums. Marion County Fire Rescue Battalion Chief Pam Driggers coordinated many of the events. An instructor at the Honor Guard Academy, Driggers was busy this past week teaching classes in marching, flag folding, carrying flag poles, and BRUCE ACKERMAN/Ocala Gazette bearing caskets. A.J. Dupell of Driggers also headed up the honor the Orlando Fire walk (“Walk of Honor”) at the Ocala Department, salutes Downtown Square. Chaplain Joe as The Colors are LaCognata opened the celebration presented in a with a word of prayer. The event mock-funeral during also featured several guest speakers, the Florida State Fire College Honor including Marion County Fire Rescue Guard Academy Chief James Banta. training at Highland The celebration typically draws Memorial Park in more than 200 visitors from across Ocala on Nov. 16. Florida, including more than 50 different honor guards from multiple departments throughout the state, Driggers said. Many visitors stay overnight at local hotels to take part in the area’s programs. Some participants come from as far away as New York, Driggers said, adding that most of them are from various parts of Florida. “They’re from all four corners of the state of Florida, from the Panhandle, Panama City, Jacksonville, and the Keys,” Driggers said. “The memorial is for every firefighter in the state of Florida.” Driggers has served for 28 years

Dwain S. Bradshaw Escambia County Fire Rescue

Jeremy J. McKay Clay County Fire Rescue

Scott R. Neumann Martin County Fire Rescue BRUCE ACKERMAN/Ocala Gazette

Mike Driggers, of the State Fire Marshal‘s Office, who is also the State Honor Guard Commander, back, fires a blank from a Colt .45 pistol as members of the Florida State Fire College Honor Guard Rifle Team practice firing a 21-gun salute during the Florida State Fire College Honor Guard Academy training at Highland Memorial Park in Ocala, on Nov. 16.

with Marion County Fire Rescue, and she’s been with the honor guard since 2001, so the annual event is special to her. “I’ve done a lot of the funerals, so it’s personal for me regarding brotherhood and sisterhood,” she said. “You don’t have to be a blood relative to have a brother or a sister. We’re a big family.” This year’s event kicked off with a prayer breakfast and solemn remembrance at the Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial, located at the Florida State Fire College in Lowell. A bronze statue of a “Firefighter at Rest,” created and dedicated in January 1992, stands in a courtyard where a large granite table bears the names of the fallen firefighters. This year, 18 names were added to the list of fallen firefighters, bringing the statewide total to 218, said Mary Ann Benson, administrative assistant at the Florida State Fire College and coordinator of the memorial.

“It is a big honor for them to be honored here at the memorial,” she said. “The firemen put their lives on the line for their commitment, so they should be honored.” State Fire Marshal and CFO Jimmy Patronis was this year’s keynote speaker, and Julius Halas, director of the Florida State Fire Marshal’s Office, issued each family a memorial flag and medallion, Benson said. Chief Mark Harper, bureau chief for the Florida State Fire College, noted that the statue and the annual ceremonies are held in honor of all the fallen firefighters in the state. “We are always very humble and privileged to host this event,” Harper said. “It’s a very special time for the Florida Fire College and Florida Fire Service to come together to recognize every one of the fallen and to let the families know they will be not forgotten for their sacrifice.”

Michael Haworth of Marion County Fire Rescue, left, and Javier Fernandez of Hardee County Fire Rescue, right, fold an American flag over a casket as other members of Florida State Fire College Honor Guard Academy train together in a mock-funeral during the Florida State Fire College Honor Guard Academy training at Highland Memorial Park in Ocala, on Tuesday, Nov. 16 BRUCE ACKERMAN/Ocala Gazette

2020 Anthony C. “Tony” Christensen City of Naples Fire Rescue

Donald DiPetrillo Seminole Tribe of Florida Fire Rescue

James G. Gunter Cape Coral Fire Department

Brian S. Smith St. George Island Fire Department

Lloyd Losinger Ocean City Wright Fire Control District

2021 Thomas M. Barber Jacksonville Fire Rescue

Michelle Clore Cape Coral Fire Department

Jimmy D. Riley, Jr. Plant City Fire Rescue

Eric M. Siena Orange County Fire Rescue

Herve Thomas Monroe County Fire Rescue

NOVEMBER 19 - NOVEMBER 25, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Local churches serve up

Thanksgiving

Second Chance Church

By Rosemarie Dowell Special to the Gazette

Thanksgiving meal,” he said. Following the basket distribution, the church will host a free concert here are a couple of with the quartet, “Just Us.” A hot ugly and unwanted meal will be served to members guests at many of the surrounding community as Thanksgiving tables well. this year. Sponsors of the event include Their names are the education and social outreach inflation and isolation. organization, Reach, Aim, Rising food costs and the Motivate and Lead (R.A.M.A.L), lingering pandemic have put Fort King Presbyterian Church, the treasured meal in peril for Cricket Wireless, and the area families, but churches and Abercrombie law firm. organizations are offering free Also in Ocala, the Kings Thanksgiving meals or food Embassy is hosting its Third baskets to quell hungry bellies Annual Grand Royale Community and hurting hearts during the Feast from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. holiday. Thanksgiving Day (Nov. 25) In Ocala, St. Paul’s AME at the Ocala Police and Fire church, 718 NW Seventh St., will Department’s new campus, 615 distribute 300 food baskets with MLK Jr. Blvd., Ocala. Besides a turkey and trimmings from 10 free meal, diners will be treated to a.m. to Noon Saturday (Nov. 20). music, dancing, and family fun. The giveaway is first-come, first“We usually don’t have it on served, said the Rev. Jeffrey Dove, Thanksgiving but so much has the church’s lead pastor. happened the past two years with “God has put so many things the pandemic that we decided to on my heart this year,” said Dove, have it on the actual holiday,” said pastor of the church for the past Pastor Fulton Wilson. The meal is two years. “Inflation is up; gas and free and open to the public. food prices are way up and people “People are tired and weary,” are having a hard time.” he said. “God just put it on my “We want to bring relief heart to have it on Thanksgiving to families by giving them a and lighten their load a little bit.”

OTHER CHURCHES AND ORGANIZATIONS GIVING OUT FOOD BASKETS, OR HOSTING SIT-DOWN MEALS INCLUDE: 13405 SE County Highway 484, Belleview will give away food baskets with everything needed to make a Thanksgiving meal, except the turkey, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 20.

New Day Christian Fellowship

13795 36th Avenue Road, Ocala will host its New Day Turkey Giveaway for residents of the Marion Oaks Community from 4 to 7 p.m. on Nov. 20.

St. Mark’s United Methodist Church

839 NE 8th Road, Ocala will distribute free Thanksgiving meals, including turkey and trimmings from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 24, at the church. Meals will be handed out via drive-through.

The Salvation Army of Ocala and Marion County’s Center of Hope 320 NW First Ave., Ocala, will host a free Thanksgiving meal from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 25. The meal, including turkey and all the trimmings, is open to members of the community.

Brother’s Keeper Soup Kitchen, an outreach ministry of Blessed Trinity Catholic Church l435 NW Second St., Ocala, will serve a free Thanksgiving dinner, with all the trimmings, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 25. The public is welcome to attend.

JENNIFER MURTY/Ocala Gazette

Briefs ANOTHER FLORIDA PANTHER STRUCK AND KILLED BY VEHICLE

HENNINGSEN PRESENTS CHECK FROM SALES OF HER BOOK TO HUMANE SOCIETY OF MARION COUNTY

his week another endangered Florida panther has died after being struck by a vehicle. It’s the 21st panther death attributed to fatal collisions, out of 27 total deaths this year, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The remains of the 9-year-old female panther were found Tuesday along a road running through Okaloacoochee Slough State Forest in Hendry County, wildlife officials said. Florida panthers once roamed the entire Southeast, but now their habitat mostly is confined to a small region of Florida along the Gulf of Mexico. Up to 230 Florida panthers remain in the wild.

uliana Henningsen, 14, creator of the book, “Shop Pets of Ocala,” presented the Humane Society of Marion County with a check for $5,000 on Nov. 13. The money came from sales of Henningsen’s book, a collection of photographs and stories of local dogs and cats that go to work with their owners, which she created to raise money for local pet shops. Dr. Dion Osborne of Ocala Veterinary Hospital and Dick Andrews of Red Fern Pet Lodge were also on hand to present the check. Although the majority of the books have been sold there are still some left. To purchase a copy, visit www. facebook.com/shoppetsofocala.

SPECIAL TO THE OCALA GAZETTE

IT’S MANATEE AWARENESS MONTH!

SUPPLIED

Juliana Hennington, far left, presents check. To the Humane Society.

n Nov. 4, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) wished to remind the public that November is Manatee Awareness month. The month exists to remind people on the water to slow down and look out for migrating manatees at this time of the year. As water temperatures cool, manatees naturally migrate to warmer waters around the state. “It remains critically important that people be aware of manatees while on the water as we continue to work with partners to monitor and respond to the ongoing mortality event along Florida’s east coast,” said Ron Mezich, Imperiled Species

Management Section Leader. “We are continuing to explore a variety of options to assist manatees,” he added, “and the goal for the FWC and our partners continues to be restoring the Indian River Lagoon to a healthy state. In the end, that is the solution that will benefit manatees and other wildlife.” Resources for boaters, educators and other interested members of the public are available at MyFWC.com/ Manatee. Report injured, distressed, sick or dead manatees to the FW’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at (888) 404 - FWCC (3922) or by dialing #FWC or *FWC on a cellphone. Trained responders can assist.

SPECIAL TO THE OCALA GAZETTE

NOVEMBER 19 - NOVEMBER 25, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Black History Museum reopened this week

By Rosemarie Dowell Special to the Gazette

a valuable community resource and historical landmark tied to the area’s he Black History black history. Museum and Allison Campbell, who Archives of represents District One on Marion County the Board said the museum reopened on Tuesday, Nov. offers a great opportunity 16 following the completion for residents to learn about of much-needed repairs to the area’s black history and the building that houses culture. it – the century-old Howard “The museum spotlights Academy Community and sheds light on a very Center. important part of our Members of the Marion community; this area has County School Board a very interesting and rick received updates on the black history,” she said. museum’s reopening during The museum first opened a Nov. 4 work session, in 2004 and had a $55,000 which also detailed the facelift with new carpet, scheduled revival of the paint, display cases, and Community Center in more in late 2018 and early January with a variety of 2019. life skills programs and It occupies one room services for area residents. of the building, but could School board member, easily expand given the the Rev. Eric Cummings materials, memorabilia, and said he’s thrilled the artifacts it‘s collected, said Northwest Seventh Avenue Campbell. building will once again “The museum deserves serve citizens of West to have more than one Ocala, a historically black room, especially with all community. the artifacts they have,” she “My vision for this said. museum is more than As for the Community just walking through Center, Campbell said and looking at stuff,” classes were offered before said Cummings, whose its 2020 closure, but not father attended Howard enough people were aware High School in the 1930s, of the programming, so it formerly known as Howard was mostly under-used. She Academy, which traces its is hopeful that will change, roots to 1866 as the county’s especially with the hiring first school for blacks. of a new program director, “I’d love to offer the which should take place ability to do research with before the Center’s restart real artifacts that tells the in January. history of African American “At this time, we have life in Central Florida,” he the initial framework, we’re said. Cumming represents on the right track and District 3 on the school we’ll have some wonderful board. impactful programs for the As for the restart of community in store,” she community programs at said. the center, Cummings said Meanwhile, Cummings he’s hopeful it will finally said he’s delighted with be used as a true and the repairs to the building, relevant resource for the especially with the underserved population in renovations to its circa the area. 1920s bathrooms. ABOVE: Historian Cynthia Wilson Graham “It’s been utilized “The bathrooms were shows old postcards of Paradise Park as in some aspects as a so small, people would she speaks during the grand-reopening community center, but have to practically undress of the Black History Museum of Marion never fully as it should have before they went in them County at the Howard Academy Commubeen,” he said. The kickand they weren’t wheelchair nity Center in Ocala, on Nov. 16. start of programming in accessible either,” he said. January will include classes “That has all changed now.” Photos by on gardening, health and BRUCE ACKERMAN fitness, and life skills such Ocala Gazette as budgeting and finance. “It’ll give people in the community access to some things they don’t have access to,” said Cummings, who was elected in 2018 and is the only black member on the board. “We want to have programs like financial literacy and enrichment classes that will benefit residents so they can pull themselves out of poverty.” The Community Center building dates to about 1916 and has been closed since March of 2020, due to both the COVID-19 pandemic and the structural repairs needed to a major support beam, said Kevin Christian, director of public relations for the Marion County School Board. The beam damage was due to a plumbing leak. Early this year, the School Board unanimously agreed to pay $300,000 for the repairs, which included bathroom renovations, to make sure the center and People look at items on display during the grand-reopening of the Black History Museum of Marion County at the museum continued as both Howard Academy Community Center in Ocala, on Nov. 16.

ABOVE: Artifacts are shown in a case as people gather for the grand-reopening of the Black History Museum of Marion County at the Howard Academy Community Center in Ocala, Nov. 16. LEFT: Thelma Edwards, 90, the oldest living relative of Emmett Till, speaks during the grand-reopening of the Black History Museum of Marion County. BELOW: Cassandra Boston, left, talks with Diane Gullett, the Superintendent of Marion County Public Schools, right, during the grand-reopening.

Chairs from the Covenant Missionary Baptist Church, established in 1899, are shown on display during the grand-reopening.

Photos from Paradise Park are shown on display with other historic items.

NOVEMBER 19 - NOVEMBER 25, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

NOT SO FAST, PLYMOUTH ROCK

Florida

FACTOIDS

Sudoku is played on a grid of 9 x 9 spaces. Within the rows and columns are 9 “squares” (made up of 3 x 3 spaces). Each row, column and square (9 spaces each) needs to be filled out with the numbers 1-9, without repeating any numbers within the same row, column or square.

Each November provincial New Englanders sarcastically refer to Florida as the “Grinch That Stole Thanksgiving.” It seems the feigned animosity traces back to the 1965 book “The Cross and the Sand” written by the renowned Florida historian Dr. Michael Gannon. In his book, Dr. Gannon posits (with citations) that the “first community act of religion in the first European settlement was performed in St. Augustine by the Spanish explorer Pedro Menendez de Aviles on September 8, 1565,” a full 56 years and gazillions of drumsticks before Plymouth Rock. Take that, Pilgrim. Today, we look at eventful Novembers in Florida. Answers on page B5

The traditional Thanksgiving football game between Florida and FSU is often called the: A. Duel in the Sun B. Sunshine Showdown C. Turkey Trot D. Citrus Comeback

In November 1947, Florida had but one area code covering the entire state. (Now we have 20.) What was that first area code? A. 911 B. 352 C. 305 D. 904

In a major speech at Disney World on November 17, 1973, our 37th president made the statement that he is not a crook. He is: A. Richard Nixon B. John F. Kennedy C. Bill Clinton D. Barack Obama

A wind-blown Thanksgiving Day fire in 1883 which destroyed much of downtown Ocala resulted in a nickname that still stands. It is: A. Kingdom of the Sun B. All America City C. Brick City D. Asbestos City

In November 2011, controversial sports blogger Jim Folsom named a network TV sports guy the greatest Florida Gator of all time. He is: A. Emmitt Smith B. Cris Collinsworth C. Steve Spurrier D. Tim Tebow

Florida was ground zero for the famous “hanging chad” presidential election of 2000, pitting George W. Bush vs. Al Gore. Who was Gore’s running mate? A. Geraldine Ferraro B. Walter Mondale C. Joe Lieberman D. Mike Dukakis

The southernmost and second oldest national forest in the U.S. was designated by President Teddy Roosevelt on November 21, 1908. It is the: A. Osceola National Forest B. Ocala National Forest C. Everglades National Forest D. Big Cypress National Forest

A large statue of this prominent Florida educator-civil rights activist is en route to Washington for display in the U.S. Capitol Statuary Hall. She is: A. Zora Neale Hurston B. Mary McLeod Bethune C. Harriet Tubman D. Maya Angelou

10. One of the greatest of our American authors, Samuel Clemens,

was born in Florida, (Florida, Missouri that is) on November 30, 1835. His pen name is: A. Edgar Allan Poe B. Ralph Waldo Emerson C. Walt Whitman D. Mark Twain

Answers are on page B5

COMING DEC. 3: Christmas in Ocala Quiz Contact Bob Hauck: bobhauck39@gmail.com

This is a theme puzzle with the subject stated below. Find the listed words in the grid. (They may run in any direction but always in a straight line. Some letters are used more than once.) Ring each word as you find it and when you have completed the puzzle, there will be 19 letters left over. They spell out the alternative theme of the puzzle.

Reading a book Solution: 19 Letters

On his first visit to Florida in November 1831, this prolific author-illustrator worked on his opus volume, which features illustrations of 497 birds. He is: A. John James Audubon B. Ansel Adams C. John Muir D. Stephen Crane

Adams Anh Do Base Books Calm Carey Castro Column Craft Dawe Economics Enjoy

Epic Fable Fact Fiction Files Foster-Blake French Funder Gibbs Gleeson Johns Kent

Lette Lindsay Lurie Magazine Malouf Marr Memoir Moss Music Myth Nunn Nursery

Play Plot Rodda Romance Rowe Sci-fi Tsiolkas Wood Yarn Zusak

olution: Perfect for a rainy day

WORD FIND

Creators Syndicate

737 3rd Street • Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 310-337-7003 • info@creators.com

Date: 11/19/21

NOVEMBER 19 - NOVEMBER 25, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

LO C A L C A L E N D A R L I S T I N G S

christmas

NOV. 20

THROUGH DEC. 24

Light Up Ocala

Photos with Santa

NOV. 20

AHAF Holiday Festival Show

4-9pm The official local start of the holiday season unites the community under thousands of twinkling lights around the downtown square for merriment including arts and crafts, kids‘ activities, entertainment, food vendors and a pop-in from Santa Claus. Visit ocalafl.org for more information.

Hog Toy Run and Food Drive

8am The Harley Owners Group War Horse Chapter 4695 has planned a ride with Santa, music, food and 50/50 drawing. Registration is $5 and an unwrapped toy and food donation are requested. Learn more at warhorseharley.com.

Nov. 18-Dec. 24 Santa is back at Paddock Mall “for a safe, fun, holly and jolly Santa photo experience.” While reservations are encouraged, walk-ins are also welcome. To reserve your Santa photos, visit paddockmall.com.

NOV. 26

World Equestrian Center, 1750 NW 80th Ave, Ocala 8am-6pm The Arabian Horse Association of Florida‘s regional and qualifying show will include sport horse, performance, halter, dressage and academy classes. Visit fb.com/ahaflorida.com for details.

government

DEC. 16

Board of County Commissioners

McPherson Governmental Campus Auditorium, 601 SE 25th Ave., Ocala 9am The Marion County Board of County Commissioners welcomes all to its regularly scheduled meeting held the first and third Tuesday of each month at 9 a.m. unless otherwise noted. The zoning portion of the meeting is also held on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 2 p.m. All commission and zoning meetings are open to the public. Visit marionfl.legistar.com for details.

DEC. 17

Fire Rescue and EMS Advisory Board

Marion County Fire Rescue Headquarters Training Room, 2631 SE 3rd St., Ocala 4pm Visit https://marionfl.legistar.com for details.

DEC. 18

Tourism Development Meeting

Tourist Development Conference Room, 109 W. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 10am The Tourist Development Council makes recommendations to the county commissioners for the effective use of tourist development tax revenue to enhance, promote, advertise and develop tourism in Ocala/Marion County. For more information, call (352) 438-2800.

community NOV. 19

Marion County Friday Market

McPherson Government Campus Field, 601 SE 25th Ave. 9am-2:30pm Shop locally fresh fruits and veggies, cinnamon buns, jerky, freeze dried treats, olive oils and seafood.

NOV. 19

NOV. 20

NOV. 24

Yoga in the Park

1 Million Cups Ocala

NOV. 22

Forest Readers Book Club

Sholom Park: 7110 SW 80th Ave., Ocala 9am Stretch out by the Sholom Park stage; recurs every Saturday morning. Visit sholompark.org for details.

NOV. 24

November Babywearing Meetup

Monday Morning Books and Coffee

NOV. 20

The Shores Market

McPherson Government Campus Field, 601 SE 25th Ave. 1030am New moms, experienced moms, dads and anyone else can attend this social, informational event. Visit tinyurl.com/ MCBWcarriers for more information.

Pancakes in the Park

Silver Springs State Park, 1425 NE 58th Ave., Ocala (SR 35 entrance) 8-11am Join Bonnie and Brett Halsell of bhbimages for a guided walk down the River Trail and get photography tips from the pros. Pancakes before the walk help get participants in motion. $5 for pancake, sausage, juice and/or coffee; all proceeds go to the park. For more information, visit thefriendsofsilversprings.org.

NOV. 20

Ocala Downtown Market

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

Power Plant Business Incubator, 405 SE Osceola Ave. 9:30-10:30am Email ryan@ocalacep.com for more information.

Fort McCoy Public Library, 14660 NE Highway 315, 10:30am Make new friends and talk about books. Visit library. marionfl.org.

Forest Public Library, 905 S County Highway 314A, Ocklawaha 2:30pm Discuss books with fellow readers. Registration required; call 352-438-2540.

NOV. 23

NOV. 24

Silver Springs Shores Community Center, 590 Silver Road 5-7pm This indoor farmers market includes farm fresh goods, artisan food products and arts and crafts vendors. fb.com/ theshoresmarket.

NOV. 23

Conversations About Conservation

Ocala Breeders‘ Sales, 1701 60th Ave., Ocala 11am-1:30pm Horse Farms Forever‘s annual summit focuses on preserving the area‘s farmland and upholding Ocala‘s reputation as “the Horse Capital of the World.” Keynote speaker John Malone is a conservationist and the largest private landowner in the country. Lunch is included in person; event can be streamed virtually, too Visit horsefarmsforever.com/summit-2021 for tickets and information.

Wednesday Midday Market

Ocala Downtown Market, 310 SE Third St., Ocala 1-6pm Browse organic produce, microgreens, fresh-baked breads and more. Food Trucks such as Tom’s Taste of Chicago, Jimmy’s Philly Cheesesteaks and Kona Ice Ocala join the fun. Visit facebook.com/OcalaDowntownMarket for details.

NOV. 25

Farmers Market

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

ANSWERS FROM B4

Florida

FACTOIDS

1-A John James Audubon

6-B Cris Collinsworth

COMING

2-B Sunshine Showdown

7-C Joe Lieberman

December 3

3-C 305

8-B Ocala National Forest

4-A Richard Nixon

9-B Mary McLeod Bethune

5-C Brick City

10-D Mark Twain

Your First Christmas in Ocala Quiz Contact Bob Hauck: bobhauck39@gmail.com

NOVEMBER 19 - NOVEMBER 25, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

LO C A L C A L E N D A R L I S T I N G S

arts NOV. 19

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban

Marion Theatre, 50 S Magnolia Ave, Ocala 5:30pm Harry, Ron and Hermione return as teens for a third term at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The infamous Sirius Black threatens the safety of their studies. Visit reillyartscenter.com for more information.

NOV. 19 LEAF Series: An Attitude of Gratitude

Sholom Park, 7110 SW 80th Ave., Ocala 10:30am November National Gratitude Month, and author Colleen Pallamary will speak on the benefits of journaling and writing techniques. Visit sholompark.org for details.

NOV. 19 Ocala Symphony Orchestra Open Rehearsal Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St, Ocala 7:30pm More details at reillyartscenter.com.

NOV. 20-22 Ocala Symphony Orchestra: Variations on Opening Night

Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St, Ocala Fri. and Sat.: 7:30pm; Sun: 3pm The Ocala Symphony Orchestra returns to the stage, revealing the Reilly Arts Center‘s expansion and kicking off a season of music with a concert including Charles Ives‘ “ “Variations on America” and Sergei Rachmaninoff ‘s “Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini,” which spotlights guest pianist Jasmin Arakawa. More details at reillyartscenter. com.

THROUGH NOV. 27

Converging Community & Culture

Brick City Center for the Arts, 23 S Broadway St., Ocala 7:30pm The Marion Cultural Alliance gallery features an exhibition of fine artists celebrating diversity throughout November. Visit mcaocala.org for more information.

THROUGH NOV. 27

THROUGH NOV. 29

Classics & Cocktails: The Third Man

Alphonse Mucha: Master of Art Nouveau

Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala Tue.-Sat: 10am-5pm, Sun: noon-5pm New exhibit features vintage lithographs, original drawings, paintings, books and other works by the man considered by many as the “creator of the Art Nouveau style.” Visit appletonmuseum.org for more information.

THROUGH DEC. 30

8pm

Writer Holly Martins (Joseph Cotten) arrives in post-war Vienna at the invitation of childhood friend Harry Lime (Orson Welles) only to find him dead. Martins develops a conspiracy theory after learning of a “third man.” Visit reillyartscenter.com for details.

THROUGH NOV. 30

Fables

NOMA, 939 N Magnolia Ave., Ocala Noon-6pm Thurs.-Sun. Grace Netanya‘s exhibition features compelling mixedmedia drawings that combine figurative art and interpretations of fables and fairy tales. For details, visit nomaocala.com.

NOV. 23 MCA Art After Hours: Poetry & Percussion Brick City Center for the Arts, , 23 S Broadway St., Ocala 5:30pm Join the Marion Cultural Alliance for a rhythmic and poetic gathering of creative forces. Percussionist Sean Thomas will beat his drums and pail for a “jam session-type atmosphere.” The evening will also feature Amira Sims, an acclaimed poet and spoken word artist and Tyler Stearns, a transgender poet who writes about mental health, queer culture and sociopolitical issues. Visit mcaocala.org for details.

THROUGH NOV. 17 A Breeze Through Fertile Gardens

The Marion Theatre, 50 S Magnolia Ave.

Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd. Tues-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 12-5pm Andrew M. Grant paints works inspired by the four elements: earth, air, fire and water. Visit appletonmuseum. org for more information.

Double Rainbow: The Art of Justin Alsedek

8th Avenue Gallery, 1531 NE 8th Ave., Ocala Hours by appointment only 8th Avenue Gallery has curated more than a dozen large works from local artist Justin Alsedek’s recent series “Uncertainty’s Rainbow”. Paintings from the past couple of years as well as a large selection of prints for sale. The artist will open the gallery for open studio hours while he paints this weekend. Call (518) 681-9347 to schedule a viewing

THROUGH JAN. 10

Art Remembers

Barbara Gaskin Washington Adult Activity Center, 210 NW 12 Ave., Ocala Mon-Fri: 9am-4pm Hospice of Marion County partners with the Appleton Museum of Art to display works highlighting healing modalities of art in bereavement programs; details at hospiceofmarion.com.

THROUGH JAN. 22

Lisa Russo | European Elegance

Ocala Recreation and Parks Administration Bldg., 828 NE Eighth Ave. Lisa Russo studied under a traditional oil painter to learn the techniques and methods from the 1600s. Fun fact: She also holds a U.S. patent for a convertible canvas that creates 3D effects. ocalafl.org.

Holiday TV brings new movies, specials and Charlie Brown By Lybb Elber The Associated Press Supply-chain woes are this year‘s Grinch, threatening to steal gifts and good cheer. But TV is overstocked with holiday specials and rom-coms ‚Äî including the Food Network‘s first movie and the rebranded GAC Family channel‘s Christmas debut. Old favorites such as 1965‘s “A Charlie Brown Christmas” may require a measure of strategy to watch. The classic Peanuts special will air on PBS and, for a three-day window, be available free on Apple TV+. The twist for the Food Network‘s film is its debut on corporate sibling discovery+ which, as with other streaming services, offers a free-trial option. Like Santa Claus scoring courtesy cookies, enjoy the gift while it lasts. Here‘s a sampling of what to watch while sipping nog and nibbling on roasted chestnuts ‚Äî if available on store shelves. All air times are Eastern.

MOVIE TIME “A Rich Christmas,” streaming now on BET+. A self-absorbed socialite gets a new perspective on life when she‘s forced to work at a family homeless shelter. Bill Bellamy and Tyler Abron star. “Candy Coated Christmas,” discovery+, Friday, Nov. 19. Molly McCook plays an executive whose life takes a detour when she visits the town of Peppermint Hollow. Ree Drummond (Food Network‘s “The Pioneer Woman”) plays the local baker. “A Kindhearted Christmas,” GAC Family (formerly Great American Country), Saturday, Nov. 20. A woman wants to emulate her late husband‘s generosity, bringing joy to others and maybe to herself.

“Christmas” with music and comedy. “20 Years of Christmas with the Tabernacle Choir,” PBS, Monday, Dec. 13, and Friday, Dec. 24 (check local listing for times). Brian Stokes Mitchell narrates a retrospective of performances by Kristin Chenoweth, Audra McDonald and dozens more artists.

STOCKING STUFFERS “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” now on Apple TV+ (free from Dec. 11-13) and on PBS, Sunday, Dec. 19 (check local listings for time). Is Christmas all about the goods or THE ASSOCIARTED PRESS good-heartedness? The question This image released by Lifetime shows Reba McEntire, left, and John Schneider from the holiday special “Reba McEntire‘s unsettles Charlie Brown. Christmas in Tune,” premiering Nov. 26 on Lifetime. “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” CBS, 8 p.m. Monday, that she could reclaim her life Jennie Garth stars. Nov. 22. A reindeer finds that being before her parents‘ divorce. Scarlett “A Kiss Before Christmas,” different is worthwhile in this 1964 Estevez stars. Hallmark Channel, Sunday, Nov. “iHeartRadio Holiday Special,” “It‘s a Wonderful Life,” NBC, 8 21. James Denton, Teri Hatcher the iHeartRadio app, YouTube and special that‘s based on the Johnny and Marilu Henner star in the tale p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4, and Friday, Facebook pages. 7 p.m. Wednesday, Marks song and narrated by Burl Ives. of a man who gets the alternate life Dec. 24. Jimmy Stewart stars as a Nov. 24. Mario Lopez hosts a “Mary McCartney Serves It despairing man who finds value in he wished for, and tries to give it virtual concert including Train, Up, ” discovery+, Tuesday, Nov. his life with the help of an aspiring back. Kelly Clarkson, Michael Bubl√©, 23. In four new holiday episodes, angel, Clarence. “Who Is Christmas Eve?” and Pentatonix. the British cookbook author “Our Christmas Journey,” Bounce, 8 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 21. A “CMA Country Christmas,” enjoys meatless meals with guests young woman (Paige Audrey-Marie Hallmark Movies & Mysteries, ABC, 9 p.m. Monday, Nov. 30. including her famous dad, Paul 10:01 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4. Holly Hurd) abandoned as an infant Performers and songs include McCartney, and Oprah Winfrey. delves into her past with help from Robinson Peete stars as a single Kelsea Ballerini (“Santa Baby”), “How the Grinch Stole mom who faces an independent her boyfriend (Romeo Miller) and Gabby Barrett (“The First Christmas, ” NBC, 8 p.m. Friday, new chapter for her teenage son an investigative genealogist. Noel”), Lady A (“Wonderful Nov. 26 and Saturday, Dec. 25. with autism and herself. Peete “Romance in the Wilds,” Fox Christmastime”) and Little Big Horror movie king Boris Karloff Nation, Thursday, Nov. 25. A forest and her husband, former NFL Town (“Christmas Time Is Here”). provided the voice for Dr. Seuss‘ ranger and geologist (Kaitlyn Leeb, quarterback Rodney Peete, are “Kelly Clarkson Presents infamous Grinch for the enduring parents of a son with autism. The Victor Zinck Jr.) join ranks to flee When Christmas Comes Around,” 1966 cartoon. actor said on Twitter that “I have a wildfire. Does love ignite? The NBC, 10 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 1. “‘Twas the Fight Before wanted to make a movie about an actors also star in Fox Nation‘s Clarkson hosts a special that offers Christmas, ” Apple TV+, Friday, #autism family making transitions “Christmas in the Wilds,” out the music, celebrates tradition, and Nov. 26. A documentary about an at #Christmas for a while.” same day. gives to those in need. Idaho neighborhood that became “The Christmas Thief,” ION “Reba McEntire‘s Christmas “Christmas Under the Stars,” a battleground for a man with a Television, 8 p.m. Sunday, Dec. in Tune,” Lifetime, 8 p.m. Friday, BYUtv, 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 5, and large-scale holiday obsession and 5. A novice private eye, home for Nov. 26. Georgia (McEntire) and on the BYUtv app. The a cappella his foes, aka other homeowners. Joe (John Schneider) broke up as a the holidays and trying to solve group Pentatonix mixes favorite “A Home for the Holidays,” couple and a singing duo years ago, burglaries blamed on Santa Claus, tunes and carols with songs from its CBS, 9 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 5. In the but their daughter wants a reunion clashes with a local detective. new holiday album, “Evergreen.” special‘s 23rd annual broadcast, Michelle Borth and Vivica A. Fox for charity. “Michael Bubl√©‘s Christmas inspiring stories of youngsters co-star. “Christmas Again,” Disney in the City,” NBC, 10 p.m. Monday, adopted from foster care are joined Channel, Friday, Dec. 3. Teenager Dec. 6, and Wednesday, Dec. with performances by pop artists. Rowena is caught living the holiday 22. The pop singer marks the over and over again after wishing 10th anniversary of his album

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NOVEMBER 19 - NOVEMBER 25, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Holiday Arts & Crafts Sale

FROM PAGE B4

Pottery ✽ Fabric Arts ✽ Painting ✽ Decorations ✽ Wreaths ✽ Soap ✽ Jams, Jellies, Candies ✽ Dolls

Friday, December 3rd & Saturday, December 4th

Booths available

(inside and outside)

Food available for purchase

9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Supporting the ministry of The Retreat at Silver Springs, the camp and conference center of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Florida

6455 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Silver Springs, FL

theretreatatsilversprings.com

(352) 236-2302

YO U DON T H AV E T O BE SO STRONG

College of Central Florida

OPEN HOUSE Take a tour | Apply for free Meet admissions staff | Win a free class

Wednesday, Dec. 1

10 a.m.-2 p.m.|Ocala Campus

Wednesday, Dec. 8 11 a.m.-1 p.m.|Virtual

BUT IF I’M NOT, WHO WILL?

Being a caregiver takes a special kind of commitment. We know your strength is super, but you’re still human.

MARION · CITRUS · LEVY · ONLINE

A A R P. O R G / C A R E G I V I N G 1 - 8 7 7 - 3 3 3 - 5 8 8 5

Call 352-873-5800

or visit CF.edu/OpenHouse

F I N D S U P P O R T F O R Y O U R S T R E N G T H.

New ER Now Open

Emergency expertise that revolves around you. We’ve expanded our emergency care for the residents of Belleview and beyond with the opening of our brand-new emergency room. Our new ER features:

24/7 ER care

State-of-the-art equipment and technology

12 private treatment rooms

Board certified physicians and specialty trained staff

6006 SE Abshier Blvd, Belleview, FL 34420

Learn more at BelleviewER.com In case of a life-threatening emergency, call 911.

AHO-705

* This emergency department is part of AdventHealth Ocala and this is not an urgent care center. Its services and care are billed at hospital emergency department rates.

Belleview ER A hospital department of AdventHealth Ocala

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NOVEMBER 19 - NOVEMBER 25, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Sports Schools find success with shift to 8-man football By Joel Bronson joel@ocalagazette.com In the state of Florida, football is king. This holds true in Marion County, where Friday night

football is must-see sports for many residents. There are Ten high schools in Marion County that field football teams annually. Traditional powerhouses Vanguard, North Marion, Dunnellon and Trinity

Catholic regularly produce playoff teams that make deep runs towards a state championship. Smaller schools, like Ocala Christian Academy and St. John Lutheran, historically find it difficult to suit up enough kids to

play traditional 11-man football. Lack of depth and injuries often cut seasons short, and a lack of sustainability and continuity can severely cripple a football program’s viability and longevity. As a possible solution, both

OCA and St. John made the decision to go from 11-man football programs to 8-man this past season. And both found the experiment to be a success. See Shift, page C2

Girls

Volleyball STATE SEMIFINALS

Wrap-Up By James Blevins james@ocalagazette.com

CZAREK SOKOLOWSKI /The Associated Press

Erin Jackson of Ocala, representing the US, in action during the women‘s 500m race at the Speed Skating World Cup in Tomaszow Mazowiecki, Poland on Nov. 13.

OCALANS MAKE

HISTORY at World Cup

By The Associated Press

ne day after becoming the first Black American woman to win a World Cup speedskating race, Erin Jackson made it two in a row Saturday. The 29-year-old from Ocala, won the second

500-meter race at the season-opening meet in Poland, breaking her 24-hour-old track record with a time of 37.555 seconds. Jackson made history Friday in the first 500 race, taking the top spot in 37.613. In both races, she defeated defending Olympic See SMOOTH, page C3

Two local girls’ volleyball teams qualified for two separate state semifinal matches on Nov. 13. Read below to see how each team faired, and who, if any of the two teams, qualified to compete for a state title next week.

TRINITY CATHOLIC CELTICS CLASS 3A STATE SEMIFINAL

Visiting No. 3 seed Trinity Catholic lost to its host No. 2 seed Calvary Christian on Saturday, Nov. 13, ending its campaign for a second-straight state title. The Celtics lost the state semifinal match in Clearwater to the Warriors with a final score of 3-2. After dropping the first set, 18-25, Trinity Catholic would win sets two and three, 25-20 and 25-21, respectively, before losing set four, 16-25, and the tiebreaker that decided the contest, 10-15. Calvary Christian will meet up with No. 1 seed Westminster Christian in the Class 3A state championship match at Suncoast Credit Union Arena in Fort Myers at 3 p.m. on Nov. 18.

GAME OF THE WEEK

P.K. Yonge @ Trinity Catholic By Joel Bronson joel@ocalagazette.com The Trinity Catholic football team overcame early season losses to Clearwater Central Catholic (38-19) and Gainesville (7-3) with six straight victories to end the 2021 regular season campaign. This Friday, the 1-seed Celtics will host the 4th seeded P.K. Yonge Blue Wave from Gainesville in the second round of the 2021 FHSAA 3A ALAN YOUNGBLOOD/Special to the Ocala Gazette playoffs. In this file photo, Trinity Catholic‘s Marquis Jones (5) and rest of the Celtics Defensively, the Celtics are blast onto the field as they take on the Gainesville Hurricanes at the Trinity led by seniors Levi West and High School stadium in Ocala, on Sept. 10. Elijah Russell. record. The Blue Wave are West, a linebacker, Brice Summerall secured coming off a first round playoff registered 7.5 quarterback the secondary for the Celtics, win against Crescent City, 56-7. sacks, while Russell, a defensive picking off three passes this Senior quarterback Aaron end, recorded 8.5 sacks on the season. Small, Jr., led the Blue Wave in season. P.K.Yonge finished the passing with 1,467 yards and Junior defensive back regular season with an 7-3

15 touchdowns. Small and senior running back KJ Wooden combined to rush for 1,145 yards and 16 touchdowns. Defensively, the Blue Wave are led by senior defensive end Courtney Brown, who recorded 74 total tackles and four sacks on the season. Celtics head football coach John Brantley III is excited to see how deep his team can go in the playoffs. “In the playoffs, it’s up to our entire football program on how far we can go,” Brantley said. “I like our team this year and the attitude. Nothing like playing and competing for a ring!” Trinity Catholic and the visiting Blue Wave will play at Al Dunlap Field on Friday the 19th. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.

VANGUARD KNIGHTS CLASS 5A STATE SEMIFINAL

Visiting No. 4 seed Vanguard lost to its host No. 1 seed Mosley on Nov. 13, losing the state semifinal match in Lynn Haven to the Dolphins with a final score of 3-1. The Knights struggled through the first two sets on Saturday, losing both—18-25 and 17-25, respectively—but found the will to win set three, 25-18, giving them some life late in the match. Ultimately, Vanguard would fail to tie the match up at two sets a piece, instead losing the fourth and final set, 22-25, ending their season in heartbreaking fashion. For the second year in a row, the Lady Knights end their season on the cusp of a state final berth. Mosley will play No. 2 seed Merritt Island in the Class 5A state championship match at the Suncoast Credit Union Arena in Fort Myers, scheduled for 1 p.m. on Nov. 17.

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NOVEMBER 19 - NOVEMBER 25, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Shift to 8-man football a success for OCA, St. Johns Continued from page C1

in with three touchdown passes. Junior running back Landon Pindell rushed for a team leading 743 yards and scored eight touchdowns. Defensively, sophomore defensive back Titus Williams led the team with 70 total tackles. Junior end Gene Hill led the team in sacks with seven. Jim Pierce, first St. John won only two year head coach of the games from 2018-2020. Crusaders, has coached In 2021, with the move to football and other high 8-man, the Saints finished school sports for 30 years. with a 4-5 record overall But Pierce was unfamiliar and 2-2 in district play. with 8-man football going The Saints qualified into the 2021 season. for the Sunshine State “I had no prior Athletic Conference 2A 8-man football coaching playoffs, losing to Lake experience,” Pierce said. Mary Prep 46-28 after a “But football is football, in closely contested first three my opinion.” quarters. While there may be three The future of the Saints less players on each side football program is bright, of the line of scrimmage, CYNDI CHAMBERS/Special to the Ocala Gazette with 12 players returning the fundamentals of from the 2021 squad. In this file photo, Ocala Christian Academy’s Logan Forella (3) runs the ball down the field for a touchdown to make it 46-0 over Foundation blocking and tackling are Even with the success of Christian Academy during first half action at Ocala Christian Academy in Ocala, on Sept. 17. still paramount to success. the 2021 campaign, Rahn These fundamentals were Redeemer. While Rahn took the said he does not plan on 18 healthy players,” Pierce Prep ended their magical key for the Crusaders in But how would St. John title, he credits assistants returning as the head coach. said. “We lost two kids to run, but Coach Pierce 2021. players feel about studentJerry Jones, Joe McKellar “We’re looking to hire injury in the playoff game.” believes that the building “Football is all about athletes from another and Buddy Karolev with a permanent head coach Pierce also credits blocks are in place for blocking and tackling, no keeping the season on track. school coming in to play? during this offseason,” Rahn his assistant coaches, another run in 2022 and matter how many players “Our players were “I give full credit to our said. offensive coordinator beyond. line up on each side,” Pierce Daniel Young and defensive assistants for the success we very excited to have the Rahn stated that he The Crusaders plan to shared. “We won games had this past season. It was Redeemer kids come over,” would be open to returning coordinator Jesse Bloom, stay with 8-man football with sound fundamentals.” a total team effort,” he said. Rahn said. “We had four as an assistant if the new with the team’s success and for 2022, but that could The field is not as wide Redeemer kids play with us, head coach so desires. While the coaching cohesiveness. change based on how many for 8-man football, while and those young men saved situation was solved, the The 2021 season “Our assistant coaches student-athletes come out some teams choose to play lack of players on the roster our season. Without them, for the Crusaders and were invaluable to our for spring. on an 80-yard field and we wouldn’t have been able Saints should serve as was still an issue. success this season,” Pierce “There is a limit of 25 some stick with the 100to field a team.” The Saints added the blueprint for schools said. “I relied on them for so players on an 8-man roster. yard option. “They fit right in with student-athletes from who are struggling to field much. I trusted them to do We will need to see how Also, there are no nearby Redeemer Christian us personality-wise. We 11-man football programs. their jobs while I oversaw many kids come out for kickoffs in 8-man, didn’t have to do anything School, which did not have And both head coaches will everything on game days.” spring ball before making eliminating the most as coaches to integrate them attest, 8-man football is just a football program. The coaching staff had a any decisions on moving injurious part of football into the team.” The rules state that a as viable and exciting for bevvy of capable players on back to 11-man,” Pierce according to many football The Saints offense was school can accept studentplayers and fans, alike. both offense and defense. A said. coaches and pundits. led by junior quarterback athletes from another Both the Crusaders and few seniors stepped up and Overall, Pierce believes Grant Phillips. Phillips school, so long as that Saints will open spring proved invaluable. that 8-man football is safer threw for 736 yards and 12 football practice in April school does not field a Senior running back than traditional 11-man touchdowns on the season, team. This allowed St. 2022. Keiron Williams rushed for football. while senior quarterback John Lutheran to welcome just under 2,200 yards in 11 “There are three less Ryan Cubbedge chipped student-athletes from games. players on each side,” Pierce The Crusaders defense said. “That’s three less was stingy, led by senior players coming from all The St. John Lutheran defensive end Logan directions. If football can be Forella’s 16 quarterback Saints started their journey ‘safer’, I believe this makes sacks. Trey Woods, a fellow into 8-man football with the it so.” same issues that hindered senior defensive end, Even with the move to Ocala Christian Academy. recorded 11 sacks on the 8-man, the roster was still Some additional unforeseen season. lacking in numbers going Pierce credits a cohesive early season road bumps into the Crusaders’ season group of young men for the proved to be challenging. opener against Riverside Prior to the first game overall team success. Christian. After a close of the season, the Saints “I asked our players 28-26 victory, an influx of head coach unexpectedly to focus on playing players began to show up at for someone besides resigned. The athletic practice. themselves,” he added. “Play director and assistant The additions to the coaches still on staff for mom and dad, play for roster proved beneficial scrambled to solve the issue. your teammates, play for during OCA’s undefeated It was decided that God.” run during the regular assistant coach Kreighton The Crusaders ended season. the regular season a perfect Rahn, a three-year assistant ALAN YOUNGBLOOD/Special to Ocala Gazette and faculty member, would “We started the season 10-0 and were the 3-seed In this file photo, the St. John Lutheran Saints take the field against the Academy at the Lakes Wildcats at St. lead the Saints into the with 23 players on roster going into postseason play. John Lutheran in Adventure Park in Ocala, on Oct. 22. 2021 season. and ended the season with A close loss to Shorecrest

OCALA CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

ST. JOHN LUTHERAN

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NOVEMBER 19 - NOVEMBER 25, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

CZAREK SOKOLOWSKI/The Associated Press

Brittany Bowe, right, of the USA and Daria Kachanova of Russia in action during the women‘s 1000m race at the Speed Skating World Cup in Tomaszow Mazowiecki, Poland, Nov. 13.

SMOOTH on ICE

Ocala represented at the World Cup Continued from page C1

CZAREK SOKOLOWSKI/The Associated Press

Joey Mantia of the USA in action during the men‘s 1500m race at the Speed Skating World Cup in Tomaszow Mazowiecki, Poland, on Nov. 13.

champion Nao Kodaira of Japan, who took second in the first 500 and settled for third in the second race. The United States picked up another gold Saturday when twotime Olympian Brittany Bowe won the women‘s 1,000 in 1 minute, 14.786 seconds, more than a halfsecond ahead of runner-up Miho Takagi of Japan. Another two-time Olympian, Joey Mantia, gave the Americans a third medal on the day with a bronze in the men‘s 1,500. Jackson, Bowe and Mantia are all from Ocala, which has become an unlikely hotbed for the U.S. speedskating program. Jackson switched to the ice from inline skating and roller derby. She

became the first Black woman to qualify for a U.S. Olympic long-track speedskating team in 2018, just four months after taking up the sport. At the Pyeongchang Games, Jackson finished 24th in the 500. Jackson didn’t compete internationally last season after an eye injury and multiple people around her got the coronavirus. Her previous best World Cup finish was ninth. American Shani Davis is the most successful Black male speedskater in history, winning four Olympic medals, including two golds. With the Beijing Olympics less than three months away, the World Cup opener is a hugely encouraging performance for an American team that struggled at the last two Winter Games.

GIRLS BASKETBALL KICKS OFF IN MARION COUNT Y By Joel Bronson joel@ocalagazette.com

A number of girls basketball teams opened regular season play this week. Trinity Catholic, Vanguard, Belleview, Forest and Lake Weir played early season contests Tuesday.

TRINITY CATHOLIC LEESBURG

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The Trinity Catholic girls squad defeated Leesburg Lady Celtics in the seasonopening contest Tuesday night. Sophomore Rose Gravel led the Trinity Catholic with 16 points and 14 rebounds, while sophomore Kieley Bateman chipped in 11 points and five steals. Freshman Brionie Leahmon and Dasanni Bentley each added six steals, respectively, in the victory.

VANGUARD BELLEVIEW

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The Vanguard Lady Knights opened their regular season with a victory over the Belleview Lady Rattlers on Tuesday evening. JaDah Kingcade scored 18 points and registered six steals, while Diana Gegaj added 11 points and three assists. Makayla Mitchell chipped in with seven points, seven rebounds and five steals.

LAKE WEIR FOREST

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In the season opener for both teams, the Lake Weir Lady Hurricanes blew past the Forest Lady Wildcats. Reniya Ford led Lake Weir with 20 points 13 rebounds, two blocks and five steals, while Erilynn Beltree contributed 16 points and seven steals. Shanice Brown added eight points and nine rebounds in the Lady Hurricane victory.

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NOVEMBER 19 - NOVEMBER 25, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

WEST FLORIDA VERSUS NORTH MARION

The two high school teams faced off in playoff action at North Marion High School, in Citra, on Friday, Nov. 23.

Clockwise from top left:

est Florida‘s Patrick Delcour (15) breaks away from North Marion‘s Trent Hoffman (12) and Collin Hooks (20). ABOVE RIGHT: North Marion‘s Trent Hoffman (12) eludes West Florida‘s Adrian Swanson (21) . FAR RIGHT: North Marion‘s Chris Foster (1) pulls in a pass over West Florida‘s Adrian Swanson (21). RIGHT: West Florida‘s Marquez Jones (24) runs the ball in for a touchdown in front of North Marion‘s Tommy Harward (13). Photos by BRUCE ACKERMAN Ocala Gazette

After fifty years of teaching and coaching,

Westol still loving every minute By Joel Bronson joel@ocalagazette.com When one peruses the countless scrapbooks, scorebooks, and other mementos that line his office shelves, it’s no wonder John Westol can recall just about every contest he has coached during his five decades in the profession. A native of Michigan, Westol began his teaching and coaching career at St. John’s Lutheran in Adrian, Michigan in 1969 after graduating from Concordia Teacher’s College (now Concordia University, Chicago). Westol taught and coached for a decade in Adrian before moving to Florida in 1979 on the recommendation of a college football teammate. “Dennis Meunier and I were teammates on the football team at Concordia,” Westol said. “One day, Dennis called and suggested I move to Florida and teach at St. John Lutheran in Ocala, where we could coach football together.” The rest is forty years of extensive coaching history. Westol then moved to Florida, and his first teaching assignment was fifth grade. The coaching opportunities soon followed. He accepted a

position as an assistant football coach for the St. John varsity football squad. But basketball has been the constant. In his over 50 years of coaching basketball, Westol has amassed a monumental 1180 wins, a number that continues to grow. The memorabilia in his office verifies the total. The scrapbooks and scorebooks from the 1970’s and 1980’s all around the

“I am so thankful to the Lord that I have been able to be called ‘Coach’ for all these years!” John Westol

Coach, St. John Lutheran School

office seem to take visitors into a time warp to decades past. When a full head of hair and bushy mustache are pointed out in a team photo from 1985, Westol said, “That was the style back then!” The conversation turned to the 2021-22 season, which started this week. “We won our season

opener against St. Pat’s 5513,” Westol shared. “We’ve got a chance to be pretty good.” The call and desire to teach and coach young people is a very fulfilling experience, he added. “I realized how rewarding coaching could be when I first coached my youngest brother-Timin middle school church league basketball,” Westol said. “I realized how quickly kids can adapt and work if they are given the chance to work hard and believe in themselves. To see kids develop from year to year is always a joy! It never seems to grow old!” Westol has coached a plethora of sports at St. John Lutheran over the years. In addition to coaching football and basketball, he has also coached flag football, softball and track. When asked about his biggest coaching success, Westol harkens back to 1997 when his Saints squad finished 2nd in the nation in the National Lutheran Tournament of Champions at Valparaiso University in Indiana. “We finished 2nd out of 32 Lutheran school teams from all around the country,” Westol said. Many successful coaches refer to colleagues who

Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette

John Westol poses for a photo with fifth grade students, from left: Lincoln Kail, 11, Corban Walker, 10, and Audrey Goodson, 10, at St. John Lutheran School in Ocala, on Nov. 17. Westol has been teaching since 1969 and he has been a teacher and coach at St. John Lutheran since 1979.

have made an impact on their coaching careers. Westol is no different. “There are so many who have been influential to my coaching career,” Westol said. “From Paul Buchheimer, who I coached with for nearly 20 years, to Rob Wheeler, a friend and assistant on our 199495 undefeated team. Bill Abbey was my jogging partner and sounding board for so many years. Our current assistants James Stone and Jeremy Gravante have been keys

to our success over the past four seasons. There are so many others in many areas.” A strong family support system is always integral to a coach’s longevity and success. Westol’s wife and kids have been with him every step of the way. “A big shout out to my wife, Ruth, who has been a scorekeeper, time-keeper, counselor, assistant coach and sounding board during many of these seasons,” Westol said. “I’ve also had the pleasure to coach

my four children, Sarah, Rebeccah, Andrew and Matthew, in multiple sports.” Westol recalls a former St. John Lutheran administrator, Dick Rath, who shared two very impactful mantras over the years. “Dick always used to say, ‘to God be the glory’ and ‘it’s for the kids’,” Westol said. “I am so thankful to the Lord that I have been able to be called ‘Coach’ for all these years!”