Ocala Gazette | OCTOBER 29-NOVEMBER 4

Find losts of holiday happenings starting on page B5

VOLUME 2 ISSUE 18

$2

OCTOBER 29 - NOVEMBER 4, 2021

County plans to spend $71 Million By: Matthew Cretul matthew@ocalagazette.com The Marion County Board of County Commissioners (MCBOCC) have been discussing how to allocate use of the $71,000,000 received from the federal government under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

President Biden signed ARPA into law on March 11, 2021. The U.S. Treasury began distributing $350 billion of ARPA funds on May 11, with half being released in 2021 and the other half set to be released in 2022.

Many of the proposed projects are infrastructure-related, something County Administrator Mounir Bouyounes says is necessary.

“Marion County is a hot spot, especially for the retirement community. It’s either we plan for it and be ahead of the curve, or we sit back, and growth will overtake everything we’re doing. And we’ve got to be smart about how we do it.”

Boyounes also indicated that infrastructure projects are vital to expanding the type of businesses that develop and relocate into Marion County.

“Since 2014, we have been looking at ‘how do we diversify our economy, so if one sector of the economy goes down, we don’t shut down the whole county and be in the same situation we were in in 2008.’ I remember, [in] 2008 through 2012, I think the unemployment was at like 15 percent. When the housing market went down, everything went down with it. And th at’s what happened when you are [a] single industry type economy.”

But with more people and businesses, comes the need for better infrastructure.

See August, page A2

“Groveland Four”charges could be dropped 70 years later

By Mike Schneider Associated Press

Alan Youngblood/Special to the Ocala Gazette

The Florida State Fire College, whose rescue tower is shown in the middle of their campus, poisoned the wells of nearby homes in Lowell, Florida with the fire retardant foam the firefighters train with. For the past several years, residents have been drinking bottled water and waiting for filtration systems.

Marion County lists contaminated water site as a legislative priority

By Matthew Cretul matthew@ocalagazette.com In 2018, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) notified residents in the Lowell area that their wells had become contaminated because of fire suppression chemicals used at the Florida State Fire College (FSFC).

FDEP testing showed that “perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), as well as soil contamination have been detected above DEP’s provisional cleanup target levels,” in the water at and

around the fire college and the Lowell area, according to the agency’s website.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances fall under the category of PFAS chemicals and, according to the FDEP, they “do not naturally degrade. When released into the environment, PFAS can cause contamination to soil, groundwater and surface water, and these impacts may pose a risk to public health and the environment.”

The United States Environmental Protection Agency lists multiple adverse effects from consuming water contaminated

with PFAS, including developmental impacts to fetuses during pregnancy and breastfed infants such as low birth weight, accelerated puberty and possibly skeletal variations.

Other effects of PFAS exposure include cancers (testicular and kidney specifically), tissuedamaging liver effects, immunesystem effects, thyroid effects and other issues.

FDEP documents show the Florida Department of Health (FDOH) hand-delivered a notification regarding the

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — A local prosecutor has filed a motion to clear the names of four young African American men who were wrongly accused of raping a white woman more than seven decades ago in what is considered one of the greatest miscarriages of justice in Jim Crow-era Florida.

Prosecutor Bill Gladson filed a motion on Monday to dismiss the indictments of Ernest Thomas and Samuel Shepherd and to set aside the judgments and sentences of Charles Greenlee and Walter Irvin. The motion filed in state court in Ocala seeks to correct the record with new evidence in the case of the young men known as the “Groveland Four,” Gladson said. It will be heard by an administrative judge.

“The evidence strongly suggests that a sheriff, a judge, and prosecutor all but guaranteed guilty verdicts in this case,” Gladson said in his motion. “These officials, disguised as keepers of the peace and masquerading as ministers of justice, disregarded their oaths, and set in motion a series of events that forever destroyed these men, their families, and a community. I have not witnessed a more complete breakdown of the criminal justice system.”

The four Black men were accused See Grooveland, page A10

See Contaminated, page A6

HISTORIC APPOINTMENT

Valerie Dailey named first female president of FTBOA

By Michael Compton Special to the Gazette Longtime Ocala/Marion County resident Valerie Dailey understands the importance and value of the region’s rich agricultural industry as well as anyone.

A realtor and small Thoroughbred breeder, Dailey will be making the most of her unique skill set and business acumen in a new leadership position after being named president of the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association on Friday, Oct. 22.

She becomes the first woman in history to hold the post since the FTBOA was

established in 1945.

Having previously served as the Association’s first vice president, Dailey expressed gratitude for the confidence shown in her by her fellow board members in being named president.

“I am certainly honored to be selected to be the president,” Dailey said this week. “There are a lot of industry greats on that board; a lot of heavy hitters, and here I am a small breeder, but active in the industry. They saw that I ask a lot of questions, I am engaged, and I want to learn, so that means a lot that they have faith in me to help make decisions.

“What I bring to the table is my

knowledge of agriculture and horses and I’m actively involved in the organization and trade,” she added. “So, I kind of bring a different viewpoint Conrtinued frfom A1 in wanting to protect the interest of all farm owners. The more you learn, the more knowledgeable you are and the better resource you are to educate your members.”

Dailey says she is looking forward to the opportunity to lead the organization and is eager to help See Valerie, page A5

Inside: Subscribers will receive their paper through USPS on the USPS schedule.

Subscription orders must be received by 5 pm on Tuesday in order to be included in the following week’s delivery.

Starting at $10/month ocalagazette.com/subscribe

Grace Episcopal Bazaar B7 Felons Get Help B1 Sports B9 State News A9 Calendar B4

Dailey

A2

OCTOBER 29 - NOVEMBER 4, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

COUNTY’S PLAN

for American Rescue Plan Act August ARPA presentation During the Aug. 17 MCBOCC meeting, Bouyounes informed the board that half of Marion County’s allotment of ARPA funds, or $35,504,717, had already been received by the county.

Angel Roussel, Assistant County Administrator for Public and Environmental Services, briefed the board on the ARPA funds and the conditions the federal government placed on their usage.

The funds can only be spent to support public health expenditures, address negative economic impacts caused by the public health emergency, replace lost public sector revenue, provide premium pay for essential workers, or to invest in water, sewer, and broadband infrastructure.

The funds have deadlines attached to them as well.

Roussel noted that the board must “obligate” the ARPA funds by Dec. 31, 2024, and spent by Dec. 31, 2026. Unused money would need to be returned to the federal government.

During his presentation, Roussel broke the funding down into five proposed projects.

First, a broadband feasibility study, with a proposed cost of $500,000, with the intention of identifying any un- or underserved areas of the county. Roussel expressed hope that any unused funds be used to address “low hanging fruit” identified in the study.

Second, an extension of water services in the vicinity of the Florida State Fire College and North Marion Middle School with a cost of $7 million. The proposal highlighted the need for an extension of approximately 50,000 linear feet, or 9.5 miles, to service this area with water, according to The need for this extension is due to a PFAS contamination, reported on separately in this issue.

Third, a general water line extension program was proposed with a $5 million price tag. The goal to assist with expansions to short and long-line projects. Roussel proposed that the board, through either a resolution or an ordinance, establish how the funds were to be used and whose projects would be eligible, on a first come, first serve basis, until funds are depleted. Any funds not used would be reassigned to other projects.

Fourth, a $10 million investment to increase water service to Marion Oaks, designed to complete water mains north and east of Hwy 484.

And finally, the largest project considered in Roussel’s proposal was

one with a scalable cost of $30 to $60 million to increase both water and sewer to Silver Springs Shores.

The project broke areas in Silver Springs Shores down into three phases of 500 lots each with each phase carrying a cost of about $15 million.

Roussel added that grant funding might be available to mitigate the cost to the county.

Bryant asked how many of the Silver Springs Shore lots were built out and how many were vacant, and Roussel responded he would need to verify the answer and return with that information.

Zalak inquired about the residents of Silver Springs Shores who already had a well and septic system on their property, to which Roussel replied there may be grant funding that could help residents switch from septic to sewer service.

However, Roussel clarified that portions of the ARPA funding could also be used to refund those who recently installed septic tanks.

After Roussel’s Aug. 17 presentation, there was a motion

by Vice Chair Zalak, which was seconded by Chairman Gold, to approve all the county projects except the Lowell drinking water project since the land was owned by the state. All five commissioners voted to approve the motion.

October 5 ARPA Update Presentation At the Oct. 5 MCBOCC meeting, Roussel updated the board on the progress and status of the ARPAfunded projects as well as proposed a new project for consideration.

Roussel revisited the water project to address the contamination around the Florida State Fire College, updating the amount of people who would be impacted.

In addition to the 30 households who had been impacted, there were also other residents to consider at the state prisons: Lowell Correctional Facility, its annex, Marion Correctional, and the Reception Center with a total population of 5,515 people.

In addition, Roussel pointed out that the Florida State Fire College hosts 7,000 students a year and North Marion Middle School hosts 700 students every year.

Roussel noted there were 78 contaminated wells, per 2019 Florida Department of Health data.

More information on PFAS can be found here.

On the Silver Springs Shores water and sewer project, Roussel

clarified how many of the sites were improved and vacant and added a fourth phase to the project.

For phase one, 50 percent of the sites are improved while 55 percent are in phase two, 49 percent are in phase three, and 66 percent are in phase four.

Roussel also offered a 5-year, $2.4 million project proposal for an area identified as a “strategic area to encourage infill,” located “north of SR 200, west of the city of Ocala, south of Calesa (a planned community), and east of On Top of the World,” for the board’s consideration.

For this new proposed project, road and trail improvements are ultimately planned as well as a park. The initial stages of the project are water and sewer improvements, including a $900,000 water line extension, a $980,000 sewer line extension, $420,000 for a new lift station, and $100,000 to decommission current facilities.

Bouyounes said, “We identified that area to be an infill-type development. And we talked about when we have infill-type areas to be developed, what do we need to do?

We first need to make sure that we have all the infrastructure in place.

If we want to encourage developers to start looking at those areas, we need to have the infrastructure in place, and that’s one area that with running that line, it will give us the opportunity to assist developing that area.”

The new proposed plan would be funded with $2.4 million that was taken from the $48.5 million currently allocated to the Silver Springs Shores water and sewer project, leaving $46.1 million remaining for the Shores project.

Roussel then detailed the multiple unsolicited community requests the county has received since being awarded ARPA funds.

He broke the requests down into three categories: public agencies, business initiatives, and not-forprofit requests.

The lone public agency request was for $2 million from the College of Central Florida (CF) for their new proposed Health Science Technology Education Center. The lone business initiative request was for $2.5 million from the CEP to help fund new health-related business initiatives.

There were three not-forprofit requests. The Community Foundation asked for $8.4 million to help fund projects that addressed multiple community needs. The Phoenix House asked for $2.5 million to be used for staff and a new health facility. Finally, Community Services asked for $8 million to help with unfunded requests.

After some comments from the board and remarks by CF President Dr. James Henningsen, the board heard from Frank Mason, a partner with Carr Riggs Ingram, a national CPA and advisory firm, who confirmed the projects would qualify for APRA funding

under the healthcare response and employment opportunities categories.

After the presentation and discussion, there was a consensus to reduce the Shores project by $2.4 million and allocate it to the new project proposal at SR 200 and 60th Ave. Also, there was consensus to contribute $2 million to fund CF’s request and set aside $1 million for the CEP to help fund new healthrelated business initiatives.

The board directed staff to, among other things, draft an agreement with the College of Central Florida to allow two years to complete the Health Science Technology Education Center or the money would be reallocated.

The board also invited the community services department and the Community Foundation to present their plans for projects to be funded with the remaining $4 million during the Dec. 7, 2021, board meeting.

Latest update According to an Oct. 15 email from Stacie Causey, a spokeswoman for the county, the board has currently directed use of ARPA funds for the following projects: ■$46,100,000 Silver Springs Shores water and sewer service ■$10,000,000 Marion Oaks water service ■$5,000,000 General water main extension project ■$4,000,000 To be determined ■$2,400,000 State Road 200/ 60th Ave. water service project ■$2,000,000 College of Central Florida nursing facility ■$1,000,000 New, health-related business initiatives ■$500,000 Broadband feasibility analysis study Bouyounes says receiving funds such as ARPA and the Penny Sales Tax are extremely helpful when it comes to funding needed projects.

“The sales tax was huge. It helped us tremendously and we have been able to start getting things where they need to be, but there is a lot more [needed] to be able to meet the future demand.”

He said that projects will always be there, regardless of what the source of funding is.

“The needs that we have identified, whether it’s water and sewer, or transportation, […] outweigh any of those additional funding sources that we are receiving, or we may receive. So, we are always on the lookout if we have any additional money coming in.

And those projects would qualify for

A3

OCTOBER 29 - NOVEMBER 4, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

“The press was to serve the governed, not the governors.”

- U.S. Supreme Court Justice Hugo Black in New York Times Co. v.

United States (1971) Publisher Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@magnoliamediaco.com Bruce Ackerman, Photography Editor bruce@ocalagazette.com James Blevins, Reporter james@ocalagazette.com Matthew Cretul, Senior Reporter matthew@ocalagazette.com Sadie Fitzpatrick, Columnist sadie@ocalagazette.com Julie Garisto, Associate Editor julie@magnoliamediaco.com Susan Smiley-Height, Editor susan@magnoliamediaco.com Christopher Smith, Creative Director christopher@ocalagazette.com

Director of Sales and Marketing Andrew Hinkle andrew@magnoliamediaco.com Account Executives Evelyn Anderson evelyn@magnoliamediaco.com Sarah Belyeu sarah@magnoliamediaco.com Ralph Grandizio ralph@magnoliamediaco.com Lee Kerr lee@magnoliamediaco.com Jane Lyons jane@magnoliamediaco.com Distribution Inquiries info@ocalagazette.com

Follow us @ocalagazette

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

We also strive to serve as a forum where all voices can be heard and to chronicle our community’s history.

1515 NE 22nd Ave. Ocala, FL 34470 352.732.0073 PERIODICAL POSTAGE PAID AT INVERNESS, FL SECOND CLASS PERMIT #114280

ocalagazette.com ©2020 Ocala Gazette, LLC

Share your news The Ocala Gazette invites you to share your important news events with the community. Email your submissions to info@ocalagazette. com. Please include your name and contact information on the submission.

• Letters to the editor: 200 words or less.

• Honorable Mentions: 150 words or less about an individual or organization accomplishment in the business, education, community service, athletics or other area of endeavor. Attach a photo of the individual or group being honored, if available.

• Upcoming events: Are you holding a charitable or community event that is open to the public? Include the organization hosting the event as well as the time, date and a brief description of the event, along with registration information or other important instructions.

• News tips: Include whatever information you consider relevant.

Editorial COMMENTARY

Florida Supervisors of Elections:

A Message To Voters On Election Integrity

By Wesley Wilcox Supervisor of Elections The strength of our nation rests on the ability that “We the People” have a voice in its governance and are confident in the integrity of our elections.

In this hour, public trust in our elections is being systematically undermined, to the detriment of all Americans. During and after the 2020 Presidential Election, the integrity of our democracy has been challenged by misinformation, disinformation, and malinformation that sows discord and undermines trust in America’s electoral process.

As your Supervisors of Elections, and citizens of our own communities, we have dedicated our public service to the impartial administration of Florida’s election laws and conducting fair, honest, and accurate elections. Those laws make it easy to vote and hard to cheat. Florida voters can be confident in the professionals they elected to administer our elections, and the protections that ensure every ballot is counted

Wilcox

accurately and only eligible Floridians are on thevoter rolls.

Florida law requires that all voting in Florida is done using paper ballots. Those ballots can only be counted using certified machines that have been publicly tested before and after each election. And after every election, we always conduct a public audit to verify that the results are accurate.

Officials throughout Florida are confident in the integrity of our system.

Governor Ron DeSantis recently stated that “What we do in Florida is, there’s a pre- and post-election audit that

happens automatically.

So, that has happened. It passed with flying colors in terms of how that’s going.”

Similarly, Secretary of State Laurel Lee, Florida’s Chief Election Officer said “We have already completed an audit of all 67 counties. And that audit demonstrated an exceedingly high level of election integrity and, again, demonstrated that our results were accurate, reliable.”

In the Gettysburg Address, President Lincoln proclaimed that the American people must dedicate themselves to ensuring that “Government

of the people, by the people, for the people must not perish from the Earth.” It is through elections that government by the people is accomplished. In this spirit, we call on our fellow voters to dedicate themselves to learning about the many safeguards already in place that guarantee the accuracy of Florida’s elections.

We encourage you to get the facts from the trusted election experts in Florida. Contact your local Supervisor of Elections or visit their website to learn more about how elections are administered and the security measures in place that protect our votes.

What I learned studying local agencies’ response times

By Matthew Cretul matthew@ocalagazette.com I recently completed a series of four articles about the response times of Ocala Fire Rescue, Marion Fire Resuce, Ocala Police Department, and Marion County Sheriff ’s Office.

The idea for the series was borne from two things. One, concern about the rate of development our community has been experiencing through the years. We hoped these articles would give the public some baseline for understanding how our community’s growth was impacting law enforcement’s ability to respond.

And secondly, curiousity born following two reports I had issued on how the Penny Sales Tax had been spent on the city and county levels. We wanted a way to determine whether the gear and vehicles that the city and county purchased for first responders was adding to their efficacy levels.

Initially, it seemed like an easy enough comparison.

Once I began to research and understand the nuance behind the response numbers, however, I quickly learned that an apples-to-apples comparison would be difficult because each agency has considerations and a scope of duties different than the others.

One example of this dynamic was found in attempting to compare Ocala Fire Rescue (OFR), the agency tasked with providing fire/EMS services within the Ocala city limits, and Marion County Fire Rescue (MCFR), which is responsible for EMS/fire service to the more rural, unincorporated portions of the county.

Because their coverage areas are different, the two departments utilize different response standards.

While OFR and MCFR use different standards to measure their response times, the law enforcement agencies in Ocala and Marion County do not have a similar uniform standard, and as such, both the Ocala Police Department (OPD) and the Marion County Sheriff ’s Office (MCSO) set their own standards of effectiveness.

Both OPD and MCSO also share a similar, lengthy hiring process. While the agencies are not currently suffering from an overwhelming staffing shortage, even a gap in acceptable personnel levels can cause response times to fluctuate, as getting new recruits and hires on the road is a slow process for both agencies.

One constant between the four different agencies was the desire to see residents educate themselves and take mitigation steps that might reduce or eliminate the need to call 911.

Fire mitigation strategies such as installing smoke detectors, clearing flammable hazards away from houses and structures, and keeping a working fire extinguisher will not amake rescue services arrive any faster, but they can absolutely protect residents dealing with a fire.

Further, keeping houses and cars locked and valuables secured may deter or prevent a robbery. Trimming bushes away from doors and windows may prevent a break-in. And responsible, safe gun ownership may provide a level of personal safety and security, even as law enforcement works to respond as quickly as possible.

Another similarity all four shared was the desire to respond to an emergency as quickly, but also as safely as possible. All four agencies noted their response times were important, but the safety of other drivers on the road, and their crews as well was equally, if not more important.

COVID, too, played a role– although not the same one across all departments. For some agencies, such as OPD, officers missing time as a result of a positive COVID diagnosis led healthy officers to work more overtime in order to ensure shifts were covered.

For MCSO, COVID also led to an increase in domestic violence incidents, as residents were locked down and unable to travel as they would in pre-pandemic times. And while the number of calls rose, the response times were expected to stay the same.

One future consideration, as both the city and county look to expand in

residential and commercial areas, is how the growth will be managed by the law enforcement and EMS agencies.

Response times can help determine where a new police or fire station would best be placed, or if sectors or zones need to be re-drawn.

While the different considerations of each agency make a direct comparison of the numbers nearly impossible, what can be compared is the percentage of calls that meet whatever standard an agency has set.

While I believe these agencies should be held accountable for their effectiveness, or lack thereof, I also think those making decisions for exponential growth of Ocala should be held accountable for how their decisions impact the response rates the rest of us come to expect. I’m guessing that the general public feels as I do, that we don’t want less services, or slower services, because we’ve added a lot more to the mix.

With that in mind, any future exercise in accountability that includes response times must take into consideration the nuance and different considerations that go into reviewing them.

I should note that, while putting together this series, we were dependant on the figures provided by the different agencies. We operated on the goodfaith assumption that the numbers provided were complete, accurate, and representative of the timeframes we requested. To be clear, we have no reason to believe the numbers provided to us were anything other than what they were presented to be.

Finally, regarding the MCSO anecdote about a resident who called 911 to report a rooster in their yard: As someone who owns a rooster, I can fully attest that, depending on how ornery the rooster was acting, it could have easily necessitated a priority-one call! __________________ Editor’s Note: If you missed the response time series, head to our website and search “response times” to read the articles.

A4

OCTOBER 29 - NOVEMBER 4, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Belleview High opens student-run Vystar branch on its campus

By Katrina Cabansay Special to the Gazette Belleview High School opened the doors to its own VyStar Credit Union Branch on Monday, aiming to give hands-on financial experience to its students.

Michael Rathjen, VyStar’s Vice President of School Programs, said VyStar’s partnership with the school was a “natural extension” of its relationship to the community.

“We reached out to the school district and let them know what we offer… and how we can add value to what they do,” Rathjen said.

“Through conversation with the folks at the school district, as they continued to learn more about the school program, they thought it would be a great fit.”

VyStar’s High School Branch Program began in 2006, encompassing 18 high schools across eight Florida school districts and benefiting over 80,000 students with its financial training and services. A total of 1,572 paid internships have been offered through the program as well. These interns manage the branches and pass on their newfound financial expertise to their peers.

At Belleview, 12 student interns operate their new branch during their lunch period to give their peers a familiar, less intimidating figure to approach about opening bank accounts, investing, and budgeting.

Belleview Principal Heather Guest said that the interns dived headfirst into their roles as peer financial

leaders.

“They’ve already gone into classes and talked to them about financial literacy,” Guest said. “It’s built a tremendous amount of confidence in them.

They’ve gained so much confidence in such a short amount of time, and we’re just getting started.”

The branch program supplements the Career & Technical Education marketing courses offered at Belleview, but students remain in complete control of their branch. Despite some reservations from others about students handling money and sensitive information, including Guest at first, Rathjen said that VyStar prioritizes instilling their code of ethics in their interns.

“We give them very clear expectations on how not to discuss or disclose member information,” Rathjen said. “They’re held to the same standards and held accountable the same way our team members are.”

While Rathjen said he’s eager to watch the Belleview interns gain more financial knowledge and experience, he notes that the most fulfilling part of the program is seeing how it changes the students individually.

“It comes back down to seeing the individual student become a better version of themselves,” Rathjen said.

“We don’t take a cookiecutter approach to try to make them all robots and follow script and whatnot.

We really do want to bring out the best in them through the partnership.”

TOP: Students, from left: Sanaya Brown, 16, a junior, Katelynn Joeles, 16, a junior, Alexis Koller, 16, a junior, Kay Parris, 16, a junior and Brien Sesler, 16, a junior, work at teller stations at the new VyStar Credit Union student run bank on campus at Belleview High School in Belleview, Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2021.

ABOVE: Brien Sesler, 16, a junior, right, and Kay Parris, 15, a junior, left, both of the new VyStar Credit Union student run bank, give part of their powerpoint presentation to an Air Force JROTC class on campus.

RIGHT: Jajun Smith, 16, a junior, works in the cash room where the vault is located at the new VyStar Credit Union student run bank on campus.

Photos by Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette

Marion County COVID numbers dropping in community, schools, but new data sheds light on local death rates By: Matthew Cretul matthew@ocalagazette.com Marion County’s COVID numbers continued their sustained decline last week as the county registered 252 new cases, according to figures released by the Florida Department of Health Friday evening, down from 313 cases the previous week.

Further, the county positivity rate and cases per 100,000 also fell. The positivity rate dropped from 5.6% to 4.9% and the cases per 100,000 went from 84.0 to 67.7.

The state as a whole recorded 15,314 new cases of COVID-19 during the week of Oct 15 to Oct 21, as statewide cases continued their sustained descent as well. Florida has not registered an increase in cases since the weeks of Aug. 13 to Aug. 20, when cases went from 149,714 on the 13th to 151,715 on the 20th.

Vaccination rates dropped too, as the state recorded administering 229,389 doses.

Overall county hospitalization numbers dropped from last week, but the percentage of COVID patients in the ICU rose

slightly.

Health and Human Services data show 86% of all inpatient beds in the county are occupied, down from 88% the previous report, with COVID-19 patients making up 6% of the inpatient population, down from 10% previously reported.

Additionally, HHS data shows 88% of all ICU beds are occupied, and COVID-19 patients make up 11% of those in the ICU. Last week’s numbers showed 90% of all ICU beds were occupied, but COVID-19 patients made up only 10% of those in the ICU. According to recently released CDC data, there were 694 deaths in the county, which ranks Marion 6 out of the 67 Florida counties for most COVID deaths per 100,000 since June 5th with 186.3 deaths per 100,000 residents.

Moreover, Marion County reported 1,690 total deaths due to COVID since the pandemic began. No other county in the top ten has over 1,000, with the next closest being St. Lucie County with 979 total deaths.

Further, of the top ten counties in Florida, Marion has the 3rd highest total

New reported cases per week

Aug. 27:

3,500

3,228

3,000

2,500

Oct. 22:

2,000

252

1,500 1,000 June 25:

97 0

500

25

2

9

16

23

30

JUNE JULY

6

13

AUGUST

20

27

3

Source: Marion County Health Department

COVID deaths per 100,000.

The county has reported 453.7 deaths per 100,000 residents, behind Citrus County (500.9 per 100,000) and St. Lucie County (523.5).

MCPS Update MCPS recorded just 18 total new cases for the week of Oct. 16 – Oct. 22, with all 18 cases being students confirmed COVID-19 positive by the Florida Department of Health in Marion County. No employees were among the confirmed cases.

The figures, released Monday afternoon, are less than half of the 41 cases

10

SEPTEMBER

reported on Oct. 16, and 49 cases reported on Oct. 11.

Quarantine numbers were down as well, with MCPS reporting 127 students and employees were quarantined due to direct contact with someone testing positive for COVID-19.

The quarantines included 123 students and only 4 district employees.

The Marion County School Board has previously indicated that it may revisit the masking policy if COVID numbers remain below 99.9 cases per 100,000 and the positivity rate for new

17

24

8

15

22

OCTOBER Christopher Smith/OG

cases remains below 10% for two weeks, which is in line with the CDC FLDOH recommendations.

The falling numbers in the county and across the state have put both categories within acceptable ranges for two weeks with the most recent release of state data on Friday.

As such, MCPS issued a press release in response to the falling numbers indicating masks will be optional going forward.

A5

OCTOBER 29 - NOVEMBER 4, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Valerie Dailey named first female president of FTBO Continued from page A1 navigatthe industry’s complexities on numerous fronts.

“It’s a challenge every year with the legislature. We have the gambling compact (between the state of Florida and the Seminole Tribe), and we need to see (overall) where we’re heading as an industry,” Daily said. “We have some great leaders working on everything and figuring it all out, making sure that it works the best it can for everybody involved.

“Certainly, (priorities for) this next year will be to come up with an agreement with the tracks and the horsemen and hopefully, get more money for purses and awards,” she continued. “We need to try to keep money flowing for our Florida-breds.

I’m really looking forward to expanding our Florida-bred program and doing whatever I can to help the industry.”

While the qualities of impactful leaders are not gender-dependent, as far as being named the first female president of the FTBOA, Dailey said, “A lot of people have said, ‘Well, it’s about time.’ I think for me, timing is everything in a lot of things that we do. I’m thrilled that I am, but I don’t know if I should receive any special recognition just because I’m the first female.”

Along with her husband, Hugh, market president of MIDFLORIDA Credit Union, and daughter Samantha, Dailey has been a small breeder in the Sunshine State under the banner of their 3D Farm since 1992. The family has bred more than

30 Florida-breds on their 15-acre farm in Anthony, Fla., and currently own eight broodmares and 20 horses overall.

Dailey is a member of the Ocala Metro Chamber and Economic Partnership and has been a member of the FTBOA for 30 years. She has a Bachelor of Science in Food and Resource Economics and a Masters of Science in Agricultural Operations Management, both from the University of Florida. She has been a Florida licensed realtor with Showcase Properties of Central Florida since 2005 where she specializes in listing and selling commercial and agricultural equine properties.

Dailey also serves as District VII vice president for Florida REALTORS, is a member of the Value Adjustment Board of Marion

County, and a representative for the Florida Association of Realtors. She also serves n the board of the University of Florida, College of Agricultural, Life Sciences Alumni, and the State of Florida 4-H Foundation board.

“Valerie has shown time after time, beginning with her appointment years ago on our charities committee on through her service to our board as an officer and now president for the next 12 months that she is an impact volunteer of high caliber,” said Lonny Powell, CEO of FTBOA. “As chair of our board and executive committees, she will contribute heavily in the areas of promotion, advocacy, and leadership. We are thrilled to have her on board as our Association’s first woman

president.”

Also at last week’s FTBOA board meeting, George Isaacs returned to the board for a fifth term, while Laurine Fuller-Vargas (second term), George Russell (fourth term), T. Paul Bulmahn (second term), and Nick de Meric (second term) were re-elected to the board. They will each serve a three-year term.

The board selected the remaining executive committee officers for 202122 with Dailey as president; Isaacs was named first vice president; Russell was named second vice president, and Brent Fernung will serve as treasurer. Joseph O’Farrell III has been elected as the secretary, and Phil Matthews, D.V.M., remains an officer and director as immediate past president.

You Can Support Local Journalism!

Sign up for free e-edition or paid print subscription at ocalagazette.com

A6

OCTOBER 29 - NOVEMBER 4, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Contaminated site in Lowell Continued from page A1

contamination, along with bottled water, to the fire college and residents in the immediate area in 2018 and into 2019.

While the area did not make the county’s list of legislative priorities in 2018, 2019 or 2020, it did in 2022.

The Marion County Board of County Commissioners (MCBOCC) highlighted the project to the Marion County legislative delegation earlier this month, with a request for “$5,732,275 to fund the cost of design, permitting, and construction of approximately 35,513 feet of 12inch water line extension with valves, fire hydrants, and a water booster station,” according to an MCBOCC document.

The project was also included in an initial round of discussions among county administrators and commissioners in August while contemplating which projects should be funded from federal money received under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). Marion County Administrator Mounir Bouyounes said that even though many of the contaminated areas, such as the fire college and Lowell Correctional Facility, are state-controlled properties, the county has an obligation to its residents.

“The county is in the business of providing central water and sewer.

And when we were made aware of the contamination that we have in the local area, and it does impact more than the state property, it does impact

private property, it impacts the fire station that we have up there,” he said.

“So, we look at the impact from that contamination, and we are in the business of providing central water and sewer. And we think that’s a project that the state will be interested in partnering with us to do it. And even with the ARPA money, we thought it would be a good project to get done and to help that area,” Bouyounes continued.

While a $7 million water project funded by ARPA was proposed, the board ultimately decided to wait to see if any state funding or state cooperation could be obtained before proceeding.

Rep. Yvonne Hayes Hinson (D) represents District 20, where Lowell

and the fire college are located. She issued a statement that read “Access to clean water is a fundamental human right, and it is an essential component to ensuring the health and safety of the community.

Guaranteeing clean drinking water for citizens in Lowell should be a top priority during this legislative session.

We have the responsibility to do better for our community and all who reside in it.”

Sen. Keith Perry, whose district also includes the affected areas, did not return a request for comment.

The next Florida congressional session convenes at noon Jan. 11, 2022.

Is it OK to go trick-or-treating during the pandemic?

By Emma H. Tobin The Associated Press Is it OK to go trick-or-treating during the pandemic?

It depends on the situation and your comfort level, but there are ways to minimize the risk of infection this Halloween.

Whether you feel comfortable with your children trick-or-treating could depend on factors including how high the COVID-19 transmission rate is in your area and if the people your kids will be exposed to are vaccinated.

But trick-or-treating is an outdoor activity that makes it easy to maintain a physical distance, notes Emily Sickbert-Bennett, an infectious

disease expert at the University of North Carolina. To prevent kids crowding in front of doors, she suggests neighbors coordinating to spread out trick-or-treating.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says outdoor activities are safer for the holidays, and to avoid crowded, poorly ventilated spaces. If you attend a party inside, the agency says people who aren’t vaccinated — including children who aren’t yet eligible for the shots — should wear a well-fitting mask, not just a Halloween costume mask. In areas with high COVID-19 transmission rates, even the fully vaccinated should wear masks inside.

It’s generally safe for children to ring doorbells and collect candy, since the

coronavirus spreads mainly through respiratory droplets and the risk of infection from surfaces is considered low. But it’s still a good idea to bring along hand sanitizer that kids can use before eating treats.

For adults, having a mask on hand when you open the door to pass out candy is important.

“You probably won’t necessarily know until you open the door how many people will be out there, whether they’ll be wearing masks, what age they’ll be, and how great they’ll be at keeping distance from you,” Sickbert-Bennett says.

Another option if you want want to be extra cautious: Set up candy bowls away from front doors.

­

­

A7

OCTOBER 29 - NOVEMBER 4, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

College of Central Florida secures second local funding source for new health building project By: Matthew Cretul matthew@ocalagazette.com The Marion County Hospital District (MCHD) Board of Trustees voted Monday to approve funding for the College of Central Florida’s (CF) proposed Health Science Technology Education Center.

The board approved up to $1.42 million to help fund phase one, which includes renovating the school’s gymnasium to house programs focused on respiratory therapy, cardiovascular tech, sonography, and surgical technology.

CF President Dr. Jim Henningsen was thrilled to receive the funding and says it puts the college in a good spot going forward.

“It’s great. We’re going to be able to proceed with a gym renovation now. With their match, we are set up to really position ourselves well to secure funding this upcoming session.”

The MCHD also voted to fund phase two to the tune of up to $2.32 million, and in return, the district holds the naming rights to the new 3,500 square feet building that will be built.

Rich Bianculli, the Chairman of the MCHD Board of Trustees, believes the project will have positive implications for Ocala and Marion County.

“I think it’s going to be a great thing for the community that they’re finally able to do

Special to the Gazette

that expansion,” he said.

The MCHD isn’t the only local funding source for the project. Earlier this month, the Marion County Board of County Commissioners (MCBOCC) approved $2 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for the new building.

Henningsen believes the

multiple funding sources will set the project apart from others like it around Florida.

“Now, we’ve got two local multimillion-dollar donors.

There are very few projects in the state like that.”

In addition to the funding sources, Henningsen says the plan has support from multiple area stakeholders.

“Our [legislative] delegation is behind it, we’ve got the hospital district behind it, the county is behind it, the hospital is behind it….I really think we can get this across the goal line. Our delegation members are so strong, and they are 100% behind the project.”

Bianculli sees the value

in the project, especially in adding quality, trained nurses to a field that is experiencing a shortage.

“The more nurses, the better. The [nursing] shortage is unbelievable, so we’re very excited to be working with them on the project,” he said.

Business Development Specialist (Ocala, FL):

Conduct market research to identify potential clients & markets. Gather data on competitors. Collect & analyze data on customer demographics, preferences & needs. Measure the effectiveness of marketing, advertising, & communications programs. Collaborate in develop bus strategies. Prep market research reports.

Min. req.: Bach degree in Econ or Marketing or foreign equiv plus 2 yrs exp.

Mail resumes to: Miguel Rodriguez, GlobalWide Realty LLC, 2102 SW 20th Place # 402, Ocala FL 34471

Join us in November to recognize

National Hospice Month sponsored by

register: masterthepossibilities.com

Vets Helping Vets Gala Nov 19 | 6:30 p.m. | Hilton Ocala

Fri | Nov 12 5:30 p.m.

Support assistance for local veterans dinner | entertainment | speakers | raffles$70 per person; register online by Oct 30 https://7thannualmagicalamericasgreatness. eventbrite.com.

For sponsorships call Jinky Diaz at (352) 286-9491.

HMC is a proud sponsor of this year’s gala.

Dr. King provides comprehensive and exceptional urology services here in the local Ocala area. He is board certified and has over 30 years of experience in male and female urology. t D gis

Nov 18 | 9:30 a.m.

B

www.reillyartscenter.com to redeem your tickets at no charge!

M lo g, ro in d U s K ifie le rt ar Ce Ch oard

An open discussion with hospice counselors about loss based on acclaimed author C.S. Lewis’s book, where he reveals his emotions after the death of his wife. No fee.

Non-invasive treatment options Full range of diagnostic services including: • Urodynamics • Digital Cystoscopy

• Urinalysis • PSA Screening

Timber Ridge Medical Center 9401 Sw Hwy 200, Suite 403, Ocala, FL 34481

• Prostate Ultrasound • Image-guided Prostate Biopsy

Ocala Office 2850 Se 3rd Court, Ocala, FL 34471

(352) 310-8281 uicfla.com

A8

OCTOBER 29 - NOVEMBER 4, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

State News Bill would allow drug dealers to be charged with first-degree murder

By Jim Ash Florida Bar News Charging drug dealers with first-degree murder for a customer’s fatal overdose would be easier under a measure approved by a House panel.

The House Criminal Justice and Public Safety Subcommittee voted 14-4 on October 21 to approve HB 95 by Rep. Scott Plakon, R-Longwood.

“By this time tomorrow morning, more than a dozen Floridians will be dead as a result of drug overdoses,” Plakon told the panel. “In each of these tragedies, drug dealers make a profit from the pain of Florida’s families.”

The proposal takes aim at a 1972 law that requires a defendant’s actions to be the “proximal” cause of a fatal overdose, something that prosecutors say is difficult to prove when a victim’s blood shows traces of multiple substances.

Borrowing from civil statutes, the proposed bill would change the standard to “substantial factor.” Substantial factor would mean “use of the substance or mixture alone is sufficient to cause death, regardless of whether any other substance or mixture used is also sufficient to cause death.”

Other provisions would add methamphetamine to the list of controlled substances enumerated in the statute and enhance criminal penalties for selling drugs within 1,000 feet of a drug rehab facility.

Both provisions were recommended by the Statewide Task Force on Opioid Abuse that Gov. Ron DeSantis created in 2019.

Plakon said he was merely updating the law to reflect the intent of the authors — Democrats who held majorities in both chambers at the time.

“If you are delivering these substances, and somebody dies, that should be a first-degree penalty, so this I would see is a clarification and a modernization,” Pla-

“By this time tomorrow morning, more than a dozen Floridians will be dead as a result of drug overdoses ... In each of these tragedies, drug dealers make a profit from the pain of Florida’s families.”

Rep. Scott Plako0n R-Longwood

kon said.

Democrats and some Republicans said the measure would go too far by making non-violent drug offenders eligible for the death penalty, or a mandatory life sentence.

The measure was supported by the Florida Prosecuting Attorneys Association, the Florida Sheriffs Association, and the Orange County Sheriff ’s Department.

Opponents included the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, the ACLU, and the Florida Conference of NAACP Chapters.

Rep. Michael Grieco, D-North Bay Village, said he was disappointed that the first measure the committee debated ahead of the 2022 session runs counter to recent criminal justice reforms.

“I think we’re going in the

wrong direction,” he said.

“We’ve spent the past few years in a bipartisan manner rethinking the way we approach non-violent drug offenses, and here we are enhancing penalties again.”

A defense attorney and former prosecutor, Grieco said criminal law standards are meant to be stricter.

“The issue regarding taking language that is essentially solely used in toxic tort cases and medical malpractice cases, and bringing it into Florida criminal statutes, it gives me great pause,” he said.

But Rep. Mike Beltran, R-Valrico, said the concept makes sense.

A Harvard Law graduate, Beltran said prosecutors and judges have talked to him about the difficulty of

charging dealers for fatal overdoses.

“This bill takes us very close to strict liability for drug dealers,” he said. “But to be honest, if any body needs to be held to a strict liability standard for the products that they sell, it’s the drug dealer.”

Rep. Andrew Learned, D-Riverview, said he supports adding methamphetamine to the statute. However, he said he is concerned about imposing mandatory sentences at a time when the Florida Department of Corrections is requesting $200 million to solve a staffing crisis.

“Let’s let the judge and jury look at the facts of the case, let’s let them do their job…so that we are not required to hold these people

for the rest of their life if we don’t execute them,” Learned said.

Learned asked Plakon if he would support an amendment addressing the sentencing mandates.

Plakon said he is always willing to discuss his proposed legislation, but he sees no reason to weaken the sentencing provision.

“I’m not going to go into all of the evil that these people do,” he said. “So, I am good with the first degree for someone that causes the death of one of our loved ones.”

Rep. Joseph Casello, D-Boynton Beach, said he agrees with Plakon.

“Would it make somebody think twice about selling these drugs if they knew they could get the death penalty?

I think so,” he said. “If you can’t do the time, don’t do the crime.”

HB 95 faces stops in the Justice Appropriations Subcommittee and Judiciary before reaching the House floor.

A companion, SB 190 by Sen. Jason Brodeur, R-Lake Mary, has yet to receive a hearing. It has been referred to Judiciary, Criminal Justice and Rules.

The 60-day legislative session convenes January 11.

Gourmet Holiday Hams Rib Roasts and Turkeys from our Local Farms Feeding our Community from within our Community In house Master Butchers www.floridafreshmeat.com

CALL NOW 352.307.8400

13770 S. Highway 475 Bldg 2 Summerfield, Florida 3491

A9

OCTOBER 29 - NOVEMBER 4, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

State News

Judge Suzanne VanWyk

Judge OK’s Online Medical Marijuana Ordering

By Dara Kam Florida News Service Leafly and similar sites will be able to resume contracting with Florida medical-marijuana operators to allow patients to order products online, under a ruling issued Monday by an administrative law judge.

Florida health officials this year stopped medical-marijuana operators from using Leafly and other thirdparty sites to process patient orders, saying the arrangements violated a state law banning operators from contracting for services “directly related to the cultivation, processing and dispensing” of cannabis.

But Seattle-based Leafly Holdings argued that it is not engaging in activity related to the dispensing of cannabis products because the company does not accept payment for or distribute cannabis products to patients. The company filed a petition asking an administrative law judge to find that the Florida Department of Health employed an “unadopted and

invalid rule” to conclude that the online services violated the law.

Judge Suzanne Van Wyk didn’t go as far Monday as Leafly requested, but she found that the ban on the use of the third-party sites amounted to an unadopted rule and ordered the state agency to “immediately discontinue reliance on its policy … regarding online ordering of medical marijuana through third-party websites.”

Leafly CEO Yoko Miyashita hailed Van Wyk’s ruling.

“By allowing services like Leafly Pickup, consumers have greater ability to research in advance prior to purchase and retailers have additional effective means of serving the patient communities. We look forward to working with our partners to restart Leafly Pickup throughout Florida effectively immediately,” Miyashita said in an email.

Until February, many of the state’s medical marijuana operators relied on Leafly and another well-known e-commerce cannabis company --- I Heart

Jane --- to help provide online shopping services for Florida patients.

But many --- if not all --- operators canceled contracts with the e-commerce companies after receiving a Feb. 1 memo from the Department of Health threatening to impose $5,000 fines on those who continued to rely on the services.

The memo said the services were prohibited under a 2017 law that set up a structure for the Florida cannabis industry. The law requires medical marijuana operators to control all aspects of the business from seed to sale --- including cultivation, processing and dispensing of products --- rather than allowing companies to handle individual components of the trade.

“Contracting with Leafly.com, or any other third-party website, for services directly related to dispensing is a violation of this provision,” then-Department of Health Chief of Staff Courtney Coppola wrote in the February memo.

Health officials argued that the February memo reflected the agency’s application of the law to a particular set of facts and was not a rule.

“The department has no duty to promulgate what is clear from the statutory language,” Department of Health general counsel Louise Wilhite-St. Laurent said during a September hearing in the case.

The February memo “is a simple reiteration of the law,” she said.

But Van Wyk disagreed.

The memo “does not merely reiterate the statute, but places a construction on the statute that is not readily apparent on its face. The statute does not address third-party websites or online ordering,” she wrote in Monday’s 25-page order.

“The letter constitutes the department’s interpretation that online ordering is a service directly related to dispensation of medical marijuana; thus the letter implements the statute and prescribes policy. The letter has the direct and consistent effect of prohibiting the practice of MMTCs contracting with thirdparty websites for online ordering of medical marijuana,” she added, using an acronym for medical marijuana treatment centers, the state’s name for marijuana operators.

Seann Frazier, a lawyer who represents Leafly, asked Van Wyk to determine whether the agency’s policy

amounted to an invalid rule, which, under administrative law, is different from an unadopted rule. But Van Wyk said she lacked the authority to determine if the unadopted rule was valid or not.

“Practically speaking, the department may simply discontinue reliance on the agency statement, rather than choosing to adopt the statement as a rule. In that case, a ruling on the validity of the statement as a rule would be advisory in nature,” she wrote.

Leafly and similar sites allow patients to shop online, compare prices and view product availability at dispensaries. Patients can order products and be notified when their orders are completed, but customers have to pick up and pay for items in person at dispensaries. MMTCs pay the e-commerce companies for marketing, advertising and ordering services on a subscription basis.

Prior to the February memo, Leafly contracted with 277 medical marijuana retail locations throughout the state. After the letter, some of those dispensaries canceled their subscriptions and all have stopped doing online ordering, Leafly COO Ross Moulton said during last month’s hearing. Moulton estimated the loss to Leafly from the canceled contracts was at least $300,000.

In Monday’s ruling, Van Wyk also rejected the state’s arguments that Leafly lacked standing to sue the health department because the company could not show the exact amount of economic harm it incurred after the letter was issued.

Leafly “has sustained cancelation of real contracts,” she wrote.

The administrative law judge also rejected the state’s contention that Leafly lacked standing to challenge the health department’s action because the company is not regulated by the state agency.

Van Wyk acknowledged that the department does not directly regulate Leafly, the petitioner in the case.

But the Feb. 1 letter “had the collateral effect of regulating the activities petitioner can engage in as a third-party operator of an online website and application-based resource for cannabis information,” she wrote.

DR. JOHN BORCHERS, DDS. PA DR. MICHAEL T. MCKEE, DDS MS.PA. DR. WALTER VANNESS, DDS 3300 SW 34th Ave., Suite 136 Ocala, FL 34474

EMERGENCY EXAM & X RAY

CROWNS or BRIDGEWORK

$1900 $69500 New Patient Special 00140

352-873-4844

Monday-Friday 8am-5pm www.flgentledental.com

DENTURES

20% OFF

per unit

Reline or Repairs

Porcelain & Noble Metal, 006242

D5751, D5750, D5761, D5760, D5619

CLEANING, X RAYS & EXAM

$2900 New Patient Special 00220

EMERGENCIES & WALK-INS WELCOME The patient and any other person responsible for payment has a right to refuse to pay, cancel payment, or to be reimbursed for payment for any other service, examination or treatment which is performed as a result of and within 72 hours of responding to the advertisement for the free discounted fee or reduced fee service, examination or treatment specials available with this coupon only. Not valid with any other offers.

A10

OCTOBER 29 - NOVEMBER 4, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Briefs ROONEY TO LEAD THOROUGHBRED RACING GROUP FLORIDA NEWS SERVICE-Former Florida Congressman Tom Rooney has been named president and CEO of the National Thoroughbred Racing Association, the organization announced.

Rooney, a Republican who served in the U.S. House from 2009 to 2019, will succeed Alex Waldrop, who is retiring at the end of the year.

The association said in a news release that Rooney, an attorney, has been active in his Rooney family’s Shamrock Farm, a thoroughbred operation in Maryland, and has served on the board of the Maryland Horse Breeders Association.

Rooney family members also own the Palm Beach Kennel Club in West Palm Beach. “Having been immersed in horse racing my entire life, I know the issues and have a solid understanding of the needs of the industry,” Rooney said in a prepared statement.

“Coupled with my 10 years serving as a member of Congress, I know how to get things done in Washington, D.C. and look forward to increasing our advocacy efforts with our nation’s lawmakers.”

HEARING SET ON STATE COVID-19 DATA FLORIDA NEWS SERVICE - A Leon County circuit judge has scheduled a twoday hearing next month in a lawsuit alleging the Florida Department of Health has violated public-records laws by refusing to provide detailed data about the COVID-19 pandemic.

Judge John Cooper issued an order this week scheduling the hearing on Nov. 9 and Nov. 10. State Rep. Carlos Guillermo Smith, D-Orlando, and the Florida Center for Government Accountability filed the lawsuit in August after the Department of Health rebuffed requests for daily information about COVID-19 cases, positivity rates, hospitalizations, deaths and vaccinations.

Several major news organizations joined the lawsuit to back Smith and the non-profit Florida Center for Government Accountability.

The Department of Health has argued that Cooper should reject the lawsuit, contending that requested reports don’t exist and that underlying data is confidential.

Cooper had scheduled a hearing in late September, but it was postponed because a lead attorney for the plaintiffs had a death in her family.

Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel via AP Relatives of the Groveland Four, from left, Vivian Shepherd, niece of Sam Shepherd, Gerald Threat, nephew of Walter Irvin; Carol Greenlee, daughter of Charles Greenlee, gather at the just-unveiled monument in front of the Old Lake County courthouse in Tavares, Fla., Friday, Feb. 21, 2020. Saying they were denied fundamental rights, local prosecutor Bill Gladson has filed a motion to clear the names of the four men who were wrongly accused of raping a white woman more than seven decades ago in what is considered one of the greatest miscarriages of justice in Jim Crow-era Florida.

Gladson filed a motion on Monday, Oct. 25, 2021 to dismiss the indictments of Ernest Thomas and Samuel Shepherd and to set aside the judgments and sentences of Charles Greenlee and Walter Irvin.

Groveland Four case finally in review Continued from A1 raping a white woman in the central Florida town of Groveland in 1949. During their ordeal, Thomas was shot and killed by a posse, and Shepherd was fatally shot by the local sheriff, Willis McCall. Irvin was shot and wounded by the sheriff and a deputy, and Greenlee was wrongly imprisoned. Future U.S. Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, then with the NAACP, represented Irvin during a second trial.

Both Greenlee and Irvin were eventually paroled after serving prison sentences. None of the men are still alive.

The Groveland Four’s story was recounted in the Pulitzer Prize-winning book, “Devil in the Grove” by Gilbert King, who was interviewed by the prosecutor as part of his review of the case.

The Florida Legislature in 2017 formally apologized for

what happened, and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and the state’s three-member Cabinet granted posthumous pardons more than two years ago. In 2018, then-Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi directed the Florida Department of Law Enforcement to conduct a review of the case.

Earlier this year, the state police agency referred the case to Gladson’s office.

As part of his review of the case, Gladson and an investigator interviewed the grandson of Jesse Hunter, the now-deceased prosecutor of two of the Groveland Four defendants. According to the grandson, Broward Hunter, his grandfather and a judge in the case knew there was no rape.

The grandson also suggested to Gladson, based on letters he found in his grandfather’s office in 1971, that Willis, the sheriff who shot two of the Groveland Four defendants, may have

done it because of the sheriff ’s involvement in an illegal gambling operation. Shepherd was believed to be involved with the gambling operation too, and Willis might have seen a rape case as a “a way to get some people that were on his sh— list,” Hunter told the prosecutor and investigator.

Gladson also said in his motion that James Yates, a deputy who served as a primary witness, likely fabricated evidence, including shoe casts.

The prosecutor also had Irvin’s pants sent to a crime lab in September to test for semen, something that was never done at Irvin’s trial, even though jurors were given the impression that the pants were stained. The results showed no evidence of semen, the motion said.

“The significance of this finding cannot be overstated,” Gladson said in his motion.

PROPOSAL SEEKS MENTORING FOR TEACHERS Sen. Shevrin Jones, D-West Park, on Monday filed a bill for the 2022 legislative session that seeks to create a training and mentoring program for teachers.

The proposal (SB 618) would pair retired or current classroom teachers who have been evaluated as highly effective with educators who are new to the job, in an effort to increase “effectiveness and involvement” through mentorship.

Mentors also would be placed with teachers who are “rated as needs improvement, developing, or unsatisfactory,” and teachers who are “from a different demographic group,” under the bill.

The measure would require lawmakers to budget an unspecified amount of money for the program.

“The funds must be sufficient for each school district to establish three mentors at each school within the district and for school districts to provide each selected classroom teacher a stipend in the amount of $2,000,” according to the bill. Rep. Yvonne Hinson, D-Gainesville, filed a similar proposal (HB 165) in the House on Sept. 22.

Rep. Yvonne Hinson, D-Gainesville

Recently fired Alachua jail guard pleads guilty of buying guns for others

By Gazette Staff A recently fired Alachua jail guard has plead guilty to buying firearms and immediately reselling them to someone who hadn’t passed a federal background check.

Kenyari Devaughnte Brewton, 26, pleaded guilty Tuesday in Ocala federal court to making a materially false statement during the purchase of a firearm and causing a federal firearms licensee to maintain false information in its official records, according to court records. He faces up to 15 years in prison.

According to a press release by the Middle District of Florida, between February 3, 2020, and April 26, 2021, Brewton purchased multiple Glock pistols, AK-47 style pistols, and an AK-47 rifle from a Marion County gun dealer. At the time of purchase, Brewton certified on each ATF Form 4473 (Firearm Transaction Record) that he was the “actual transferee/

buyer” of the guns, even though he quickly resold them to “unknown” individuals for a profit.

On May 2, 2021, one of the Glock pistols that Brewton had sold to an individual was used during a homicide in Marion County. Brewton had purchased this firearm only six days earlier from the gun dealer.

According to the plea agreement, Brewton purchased multiple firearms from a Marion County gun dealer between March 2020 and April 2021.

Brewton certified on each firearm transaction form that he was the “actual transferee/buyer” of these guns. But he purchased the firearms on behalf of another person and never intended to keep them, prosecutors said.

Brewton also used his status as a detention deputy in nearby Alachua County to obtain discount prices on some of the firearms.

Brewton purchased a .40 caliber Glock pistol in April that

was used six days later by another person during a homicide, officials said. That firearm was later recovered by Ocala police during a traffic stop involving four armed men with masks, gloves and loaded firearms.

Brewton was fired from the Alachua County jail after his August arrest. Investigators said a search of Brewton’s cellphone revealed numerous text conversations between Brewton and the person for whom he had agreed to purchase the firearms.

This was investigated by the Ocala Police Department, the Marion County Sheriff ’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.

Associated Press contributed to this report.

A11

OCTOBER 29 - NOVEMBER 4, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

“Your Health is Our Concern”

STONE CREEK SENIOR HEALTH Stone Creek resident since 2010

Darry Schroader

(Mobile) 727-204-1369 | (Office) 352-414-1970 darry@stonecreekseniorhealth.com

Dara Schroader

(Mobile) 727-20401642 | (Office) 352-414-1970 dara@stonecreeksenirohealth.com

IT’S THAT TIME OF YEAR - ANNUAL ENROLLMENT FOR MEDICARE

OCTOBER 15 - DECEMBER 7

WE NOW OFFER FL BLUE MEDICARE PLANS!!!

SOLUTIONS FOR ALL YOUR HEALTH INSURANCE NEEDS MEDICARE SUPPLEMENTS

INDIVIDUAL HEALTH PLANS

DISABILITY INSURANCE

PRESCRIPTION DRUG PLAN

DENTAL

LONG TERM CARE / TRADITIONAL

MEDICARE ADVANTAGE - $0 PREMIUM

LIFE INSURANCE

LIFE INSURANCE/ ANNUITIES WITH LONG-TERM CARE RIDER

A12

OCTOBER 29 - NOVEMBER 4, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

We Pay To

New 2022 Golf Carts Starting At $6995

for all p

re-owne

New 2022 Lithium Golf Carts Starting at $8995

p Dollar

d golf ca

rts

$500 off with this ad On Any Cart Purchase

n Best Pricet sBeinUnTdoerwsold

Must be presentee at time of sale

We Will No

Sunshine State Golf Carts Ocala

Family owned and operated since 2008

Visit us at the Canopy Oak (Publix) Shopping Center 8075 SW State Road 200 #113 Ocala 34481 or our brand new location at Timber Ridge Commons 9121 SW Hwy. 200, Suite 3 Open Monday - Saturday 9 AM to 5 PM

Visit us at our website:

sunshinestategolfcartsocala.com

LARGE Selection of Golf Carts!

352-355-3254

SOME OF OUR SERVICES: • Authorized Star EV Golf Cart Dealer • Lithium Golf Carts • Factory Certified Club Cars • Pre-Owned EZ-GO and Yamaha Golf Carts • Street Legal Low Speed Vehicle Dealer • Utility Golf Carts • Golf Cart Accessories • 0% Financing available • Available 6 year warranty • Trojan Batteries • U.S. Batteries • Annual Golf Cart Service Performed • Golf Cart Appraisals Available

Time for new batteries?

Consider Lithium!

B1

OCTOBER 29 - NOVEMBER 4, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

People, Places & Things Citrus: a venture for the brave

By Jennifer Odom Special to the Gazette

HAUNTINGS of HISTORIC

PROPORTIONS

t

he Halloween season has brought out the ghostly spookiness of the Ocala Historic District. Vintage Queen Anne Revival, Victorian and old-style Floridian homes have been decorated to the hilt.

From Broadway to Fort King Street, creepy costumed mannequins and cobwebs surround humorously posed skeletons, both regular-size and gigantic, festoon front porches and yards.

Take a stroll or drive-by to check out the majestic and amusing Halloween-y houses.

Fun fact: One historic abode, the Rheinauer House, 828 Fort King St. – operating today as an AirBnB -- is allegedly one of the most haunted houses in America.

For more information about the Ocala Historic District, visit historicocala.org.

Photos by

Bruce Ackerman Ocala Gazette

Eenie, meenie, miney, meenie, meenie, miney, moe, look at all those citrus trees. Which one should I buy?

What Florida gardener wouldn’t desire to have a citrus tree in their yard? I bet most new gardeners who know anything about Florida’s legendary citrus industry are tempted to give this beautiful evergreen a try.

Well, ahem….

It can be done, but things aren’t quite the same as the old days.

Success is rare. Take the case of Linda Burke’s 15-foot tree, north of Ocala.

To maintain the 20-year-old blood-navel, Burke says, “I use a citrus-mango fertilizer once a year from a local store. It does great, though you’re really supposed to fertilize about three times a year. I also rake up all the dropped fruit and leave that underneath as a natural fertilizer.”

Burke’s tree yields about three bushels of fruit a year. I hope she has many more years of success—and no diseases or freezing.

Fifty years ago, the sight of those deep-green citrus trees was common in Florida back yards.

Springtime brought us the fragrant blossoms, the pollen, and the bees.

Fall brought out the heavy, wooden orange crates that took up space on kitchen floors, overflowing with oranges, tangerines, and grapefruits.

Tanks of concentrated frozen juice rumbled north over the rails while citrus-shipping enterprises dotted the highways. And did I mention that gold-labeled orange blossom perfume that every gift shop sold and that nearly blew the olfactory works out of our heads? Florida boasted a booming citrus industry.

But two vicious enemies have nearly destroyed that dream. Periodically, subfreezing temperatures assaulted it. In 1835, a bitter freeze took its toll and wipedout the trees of the early pioneers.

Brave souls replanted and kept going. During the Great Freeze of 1894 through 1895, frigid weather popped back when low temperatures struck twice within a few weeks of each other. It blackened the fruit and split open the moisture-filled tree trunks with loud pops that sounded like gunshots. All was lost.

But brave, risk-taking planters gambled again and built back the See Florida, page B2

Re-entry program helps starting over

By Rosemarie Dowell Special to the Gazette Ocala resident Laurence Hankin is a happily married, law-abiding citizen who owns a successful painting company and handyman service that employs nearly a dozen people and earns him an annual six-figure income.

The Miami native is also a convicted felon that spent more than 20 years in a Florida prison for robbery to support a years-long cocaine addiction. The habit also destroyed his first marriage and a lucrative career as an accountant.

The 67-year-old attributes the 360-degree turnaround between his current and former life to God and the Re-Entry Center of Ocala (RECO), a work-release facility that’s an outgrowth of Time for Freedom, a non-profit ministry founded in 1987 by the late Bernard F. “Bernie” DeCastro, himself a

former prison inmate.

“If it wasn’t for RECO there’s no way I’d be the success I am today,” said Hankin, a college graduate who spent eight months at the Center following his release from prison in 2014. “I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities it gave me.”

The faith-based transitional program, operated through the Florida Department of Corrections, goes beyond many work release facilities by mandating budgeting classes, job readiness and training courses, as well as counseling and educational programs for its inmates, many of whom lack basic life skills when reentering society.

The Center, which currently houses 132 men at its northeast Ocala location, also helps them find gainful employment through partnerships with businesses and employers in the community, said See Re-entry, page B2

If it wasn’t for

RECO

there’s no way

I’d be the

success

I AM today

Laurence Hankin

Graduate of the RECO Program

Hankin Hankin

B2

OCTOBER 29 - NOVEMBER 4, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Florida citrus a challenge Continued from page B1 prevailed until 1977 when the temperatures plummeted. They dove again, one freeze after another, in the 1980s. For many, it was over. But not quite all.

We arrived in 2005, only to discover a new, more sinister enemy with no connection to the weather.

This devilish disease, known as citrus greening, has no cure.

According to the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences website, “Huanglongbing (also known as HLB or citrus greening) is a disease affecting citrus production all over the globe. Citrus greening affects all citrus cultivars and causes tree decline, a serious threat to Florida’s citrus industry. The disease is believed to be caused by the bacterium Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus. The Asian citrus psyllid transmits the bacterium and is found throughout Florida.”

This is especially painful when a family’s heirloom tree has been around for some time. The symptoms sneak up and develop gradually.

You may even spot a few. Observe for leaf distortion (curling and notching), irregular, mottled-yellow and green patterns on leaves, yellow shoots in contrast to an otherwise green background canopy, dieback of shoots or limbs, lopsided, asymmetric fruit, undersized fruit that doesn’t ripen normally, bitter, off-flavored fruit when it should be ripe, and small, dark, malformed seeds. If you think your tree might have citrus greening, contact the plant clinic volunteers at the local ag office. Please accept my sincere sympathy, but dry your tears, and keep reading for a bit of hope.

Regarding large, heirloom trees, Troy Harbison, of Harbison Farms in Sparr, tells of his own successes.

Trees at his place range from 15-20 feet high and average 15-yearsold. He has practiced experimental techniques of drilling into the tree and “injecting penicillin mixed with LA200,” cattle antibiotics, which maintained the health of his trees.

Harbison told of experiments

performed in South Florida: Farmers drove through their groves and sandblasted off the waxy finish of the leaves; then, they sprayed the groves with antibiotics.

They enjoyed success, “but this was very expensive.”

This desire to overcome the crippling effect of citrus greening is widespread. According to Harbison, the antibiotic treatment he uses must be repeated every year— a job which is not so practical for a huge grove.

“As soon as one notices symptoms,” he said, “they should doctor the tree as soon as they can. The bigger the trunk, the better.”

He has recently planted some younger trees, but the mechanics of drilling into their tiny trunks are

damaging.

“A tree should be at least three inches across,” he says.

Harbison has valencias, navels, grapefruits, hammonds, mangerines, calamondins, and kumquats, but cannot go out and treat another person’s trees. However, if they visit him at his fruit and vegetable market (see information below), he is more than happy to talk about the treatment.

When I told him I’d heard of groves with very little citrus greening by a stand of mossy oaks near Palatka a few years ago, Harbison nodded.

“Citrus trees planted under shade don’t get the disease as fast as in the sun. The life expectancy is longer.”

In fact, the trees I saw on his

property were near old oaks.

So, as you can see, all is not lost.

Scientists continue to seek a solution that is workable for farmers. What a boon it would be for Florida to see its citrus industry restored.

As for me, I’ve tried citrus and failed, but I’ll try again and again.

I’ll not give up. I’ve heard through the grapevine that sour oranges, calamondins, lemons, limes, and other sour varieties are less susceptible. So, I’ll stick with those.

And when I say my prayers, I will include one for a solution to this terrible disease. For now, though, each one will have to make up their own mind, as the growing of citrus remains a venture for the brave.

Re-entry program helps felons restart Continued from page B1 RECO Executive Director Mauricio, “Chevy,” Chevalier.

“From day one, we start working on a program to make the individual successful and prevent recidivism,” said Chevalier, who retired from his job as an officer at the Florida Correctional Institution eleven years ago to take the helm at the Center. “We give them the tools they need to reenter society and thrive.”

Dead-end jobs with little or no upward mobility, like those in the fast-food industry, are not pursued, he said.

“We pair them with jobs they can grow into and have a career,” said Chevalier. “If they can’t support themselves or their family that can lead them on the wrong path again.”

“They have to get used to making good decisions for themselves again,” he said.

“They are required to set up a budget and save a portion of their earnings each week.”

Triple Crown Trailers, Skyline Homes, a mobile home manufacturer, and Phoenix Wood Products are a few of the Marion County businesses that have partnered with the Reentry Center.

“Our men are successful due to the community partnerships,” said Chevalier.

“We used to have to beg

businesses to employ our men, but now they call us when they need to hire someone because we have a proven track record.”

For Hankin, success came soon after he arrived at the Center, via local painting contractor, Swaggerty (cq) Painting. The company hired him to do prep work.

“I didn’t know anything about painting, I’d never even picked up a roller,” he said.

“But I knew it was a good career opportunity for me so I worked hard.”

Soon, Hankin was given a roller and a new role as a painter, eventually becoming a foreman at the company.

Within three years of his release, Hankin and his mentor became business partners, opening Hankins Residential Specialty Painting, Inc. In 2020, Hankin became the sole owner of the business and also bought out Swaggerty.

Today, Hankins employs eight painters and two handymen, has contracts with several well-known homebuilders in Marion County, and also does commercial work.

“I have a good life; God has blessed me,” he said. “But I implemented changes in my life before I got out of prison; success is due to mindset and I wanted to put things behind me and succeed.”

For Fort Lauderdale native Todd Powell, who spent 15 years in prison

Bruce ckerman/Ocala Gazette

Todd Powell, who successfully went though the Re-Entry Center of Ocala (RECO) program, poses for a photo at Lake Lillian in Belleview on Wednesday, Oct. 20, 2021.

on drug distribution charges, RECO provided much-needed structure and life skills classes as he transitioned back into society.

Powell earned his GED, as well as wastewater and drinking water certifications while he was incarcerated and had a job with U.S. Water waiting for him when he was released to RECO in January of 2015.

“What I liked about RECO was they had mandatory classes,” said Powell, 48, who is engaged and now works for a northeast Marion County municipality. “Some work-

release programs don’t have anything like that; they just help you find a job and that’s it.”

“They offer you everything you need to make it,” he said, “RECO made a difference for me.”

Chevalier said RECO’s biggest obstacle is a lack of awareness within the community.

“Even though RECO’s been open since 2005, a lot of people still don’t know about us and what we do,” he said. “We are always looking for new partnerships or help from the community.”

For example, men on work release need transportation to get to and from their jobs. The Center welcomes donations of used vehicles since riding a bicycle to and from work every day can be difficult, especially in Florida’s climate.

Hankin can attest to that.

“I rode a bicycle from the Center all the way out to Walgreens by State Road 200 for eight months,” he said. “It was tough.”

Want to know more about the Re-Entry Center of Ocala? Go to reentrycenterofocala.com.

B3

OCTOBER 29 - NOVEMBER 4, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Stacey Lynn Payne / Shutterstock.com

Back in time, back in battle

By Rosemarie Dowell Special to the Gazette

T

he only Civil War battle to take place in Marion County was more of a skirmish than a bloody conflict between steelyeyed soldiers clad in Union Blue and Confederate Gray.

In fact, the Ocklawaha River Raid of March 7, 1865, just one month before the end of the Civil War, involved less than 125 troops and home guard volunteers from both the North and South.

Even so, the historic scuffle will be commemorated during this weekend’s 37th Annual Ocklawaha River Raid, hosted by the 1st Brigade, Provisional Army of the Confederate States Civil War Re-enactor/Living History unit.

During the event, re-enactors from around the state, including 175 Union and Confederate infantry, eight mounted soldiers, and a handful of civilian units, including women and children, will converge on the rolling hills and woods of the 500-acre Florida Horse Park.

Visitors will get an authentic look at American life during the Civil War era, from period garb to mannerisms and speech from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday (Nov. 6-7). Battle re-enactments will take place at 2 p.m. each day.

“We portray the history of this time period as accurately as we can,” said Keith Kohl, who founded the event with his parents, especially his mother, Catherine Kohl, when he was 17 years old.

Military encampments of both Union and Confederate armies will be featured with authentic tents, equipment, and weaponry. Civilian reenactors will portray family members of soldiers while others will depict daily life on the home front.

Now a Lt. Col. in the Fourth Florida Infantry, Kohl said the re-enactors are required to stay in character day and

night throughout the event emulating the sights and sounds of life just as it was during the Civil War era.

“We encourage visitors to visit the camps and learn about history from a bygone era,” he said. Modern conveniences, such as CD players, laptops, and fast-food meals are discouraged and must be out of sight at all times.

“It’s a fully immersive history lesson; my breakfast isn’t a sausage and egg biscuit from McDonald's,” he said. “My breakfast is cooked over a campfire in a cast-iron skillet and we use candle lanterns to see at night instead of flashlights.”

Sutlers, originally private suppliers of goods that traveled with the armies, who now sell Civil War reproduction goods and other related wares will also be at the event, clothed in period costumes.

The Ocklawaha River Raid in March 1865 involved about 30 Union troops from Jacksonville who raided the Marshall Plantation, east of Ocala.

Led by Sgt. Major Henry Thomas, the Union soldiers left with 80 gallons of syrup and 200 hogsheads, or containers, of sugar, and other property from the plantation.

The Ocala Home Guard gave pursuit, and later Confederate soldiers gave chase as well, but when the raiders crossed the Ocklawaha River to return to their garrison, they burned the Marshall Bridge, near the presentday Sharpes Ferry Bridge, and escaped.

The plundered goods were abandoned and returned to Marion County. Both Union and Confederate forces had dead and wounded soldiers, including two “mortally wounded” members of the Ocala Home Guard.

Just one month later, on April 9, 1865, Gen. Robert E. Lee surrendered to Gen. Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox, putting an end to the war.

The conflict claimed roughly 620,000 lives, including 5,000 Floridians, according to the Florida Department of State.

Stacey Lynn Payne / Special to the Gazette

Stacey Lynn Payne / Special to the Gazette

Kohl said the battle re-enactments will not be a recreation of the Raid itself, but rather a snapshot of a typical field battle, and will feature equal amounts of soldiers from both sides “It’s silly to have a battle that’s all one-sided,” said Kohl, who has both Confederate and Union uniforms, and can portray a soldier from either side. The combat will include infantry, artillery, and cavalry units with muskets, cannons, commands, and tactics all employed in battle in the 1860s.

Michael Landon of Orlando, who portrays a corporal in the Confederate Army, said he enjoys the comradery amongst other members of the reenactor community.

“Everyone involved has a fascination with our nation’s history,” said Landon, a 13-year re-enactor.

“We’re like one big family regardless of what side we portray.”

Meanwhile, Kohl, single and 53, said interest in this year’s observance has increased from last year.

“I’ve gotten a lot of great feedback from re-enactors,” said the Maryland native who moved to Florida in 1979.

“I think we’ll have a good crowd this year.”

IF YOU GO: WHAT: The 37th Annual Ocklawaha River Raid, one of Florida’s longest-running re-enactments and living history events.

WHERE: Ocala Horse Park, 11008 S Highway 475, south of Ocala and west of Belleview.

WHEN: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday (Nov.6-7); battle re-enactments at 2 p.m. each day. Bring chairs or blankets to sit on during the action.

COST: $10 donation per carload.

B4

OCTOBER 29 - NOVEMBER 4, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Non-stop nosh!

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.

Elevation 89 has taken off The new dining hotspot -- named for its height above sea level – caps off the renovation of a new 17,500-square-foot terminal at Ocala International Airport, 1770 SW 60th Ave. Whether you are traveling or looking for a new restaurant or a sophisticated haunt to enjoy a sophisticated cocktail, or a hangout spot to people-watch,

Seafood Pescatore is shown at the new Elevation 89 restaurant in the terminal at Ocala International Airport in Ocala on Monday, Oct. 18, 2021.

you can partake of all three at Elevation 89. The distinctive eatery serves elevated comfort food whipped up by Executive Chef Jeremy Zajac and his team from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday. Call (352) 655-2880 for more information.

WORD FIND

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

Live in concert Solution: 19 Letters

© 2021 Australian Word Games Dist. by Creators Syndicate Inc.

Photos by Bruce Ackerman/ Ocala Gazette

Seafood Pescatore flames up as Jeremy Zajac, the executive chef and operations manager, cooks in the kitchen at the new Elevation 89 restaurant.

ACDC Audio Australian Crawl Band Bardot Catfish Chris Bailey Control Drums Funk Group Harp

Hip hop Indie INXS Iva Davies John Butler Trio Lee Kernaghan Pnau Presets Quiet Rabbit Rock Snog

Song Special effects Spod Sunnyboys Talk Techno Vines Wa Wa Nee Wiggles Wolfmother Zoot

n amazing experience

Creators Syndicate

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

Date: 10/2

B5

OCTOBER 29 - NOVEMBER 4, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

halloween

OCT. 29-31

Pumpkin Patch & Festival

3200 SE 115th St, Belleview 4-7pm Navigate a corn maze experience, enjoy carnival games, and, of course, wander through a pumpkin patch. Pony rides, music and food and drink vendors add to the fun. For more information, visit TimberlineFarm.net.

OCT. 29

2nd Annual Horse-O-Ween 403 SE Osceola Ave.

5-9pm Kids compete in costume contests at 6pm, pets at 6:30pm, and the horses get done up at 7pm. Also includes kids trick-or-treating, carriage rides, family photo opps, vendors, food trucks and live music

by The Lady in Black. Details at facebook.com/ OcalaDowntownMarket.

OCT. 29-31

Oktoberfest Halloween Party

Country Club of Ocala, 6823 SE 12th Circle 5-9pm Oktoberfest-themed food, cocktails and live music

by Bill Knarr. Dress in your spooky best and get a complimentary drink from the bar. $22.50. Call (352) 237-6644 to find out if the tickets are still available.

OCT. 29, 30

Cocktails & Classics: Beetlejuice

The Marion Theatre, 50 S Magnolia Ave. Fri: 5:30pm; Sat:8pm The Tim Burton 1988 horror-comedy classic returns, starring Michael Keaton as a human-pest control demon. Visit reillyartscenter.com.

OCT. 29-30

Halloween Bike Ride & Live Music

Santos Trail Head, 3080 SE 80th St., Ocala New bike shop on the scene, WhimCycle, presents live music for Friday night, from 6 to10pm, and Saturday from noon to 3pm and 6-10pm. Food trucks will feed hungry riders and rockers, and Greenway Bicycles and Brick City will provide cold drinks. Friday night ride begins at 6:30 pm on both paved and off-road tracts leaving from the Santos Trailhead,with another off-road ride Saturday at 9 am leaving from WhimCycle. Call (352) 351-3475 for details.

OCT. 29

Spooktacular Bootastic

Marion Oaks Community Center, 294 Marion Oaks Lane, Ocala 6-9pm From sports to spooks, the center celebrates Halloween with a haunted trail, oversized games, free photo stations, pro wrestlers, music by DJ Victor, bloooooood sucking via donor booth, Marion County Human Society adoptions plus food and drinks. More than 40 safe trick-or-treat stations hosted by local businesses provide free candy; more at marioncountyfl.org.

OCT. 29-30

A Nightmare on Pine Street | Haunted Trail Wayne’s World of Paintball, 4841 S Pine Ave., Ocala 8 pm-12am

Get your fright on with five acres of haunted attractions.

A Nightmare on Pine Street haunted trail is $10 per adult and $5 per child ages 12 and up. Waynes-world. com.

OCT. 30

Forest Trunk or Treat

Forest Public Library, 905 S. Hwy. 314A, Ocklawaha 4pm Enjoy family fun with games, clowns, face painting and candy. Presented in conjunction with the Forest Community Center. ibrary.marionfl.org.

OCT. 30

United Way Halloween Family Fun Run/Walk

828 NE 8th Ave., Ocala 6-9pm The 5k will begin at Citizen Circle and run east through the historic district ending back a Citizen Circle where a special treat will await little participants. Race as family or solo. Visit ocalafl.org/recandpark for details.

OCT. 30

Fun-tastic Fall Festival

OCT. 30-31

Boo Boo's Halloween Bash Family Farms, 19650 NE 30th St., Williston 10am-2pm Children ages 10 and younger,and families ride the farm's train on a historic railroad; carousel, games, and a variety of activities and entertainment also featured. Check the farm's website, farm.com, for information on this bash and additional evening events.

OCT. 31

Family Fall Fest

1111 NE 17th Road, Ocala 5-8pm The free family fun event provides safe trick-ortreating and vendors to providing candy. Call (352) 233-2122 for details.

OCT. 31

Grow Belleview Trunk-or-Treat

5053 SE Abshier Road, Belleview 6-8pm The free family fun event provides safe trick-or-treating and vendors to providing candy. For details, call 352-553-0027.

OCT. 31

Downtown Fall Festival

151 SE Osceola Ave., Ocala 6-9pm Bring the family to celebrate the fall season and All Hallows Eve with games, candy, pony rides, magic tricks, petting zoo and costume contest. For more information, visit ocalafl.org.

OCT. 31

Wings of Faith Family Fall Fest

5066 SE 64th Ave. Road Ocala 6pm Features trunk or treat, pumpkin patch, photo booth, games, and tractor rides. facebook.com/wingsocala.

Dunnellon Public Library, 20351 Robinson Rd. Noon Bring the family to play games, enjoy treats and notso-spooky stories. Costumes welcome. Come as your favorite character and see if Ms. Cate can guess who it is. (Word on the street is she’s clever.) Details at library.marionfl.org.

OCT. 29

Samhain Deadlift Fest

CrossFit Iron Legion, 217 SE First Ave., Ocala 7pm Lift some weights and enjoy a costume party with pot luck food and BYOB. Details at crossfitironlegion. com.

OCT. 29

Happy Camp-O- Ween

Mill Dam Campground, Ocala National Forest Join Daytona Area Convention for Narcotics Anonymous (DACNA) for two nights of camping in the serenity of the Ocala National Forest, on beautiful Mill Dam Lake. Celebrate recovery with campfire meetings, meditation meetings, and more. Details at dacna.org.

community THROUGH OCT. 30

OCT. 29

NOV. 2

Ocala International Horse Show

Marion County Friday Market

The Shores Market

World Equestrian Center, 1390 NW 80th Ave., Ocala 9am-7pm Vying for a $2 million purse, this show's competitions include Western pleasure, barrel racing, cutting, hunter, reining, ranch and youth classes. This the first horse show at WEC highlighting the American Saddlebred, Morgan, Hackney Pony, Arabian, Roadster, Dutch Harness Horse and many other performance show horse breeds. Visit wec.net for more information.

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

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

THROUGH OCT. 30

Amazing Arthropods

Discovery Center, 701 NE Sanchez Ave. Tuesday-Saturday 10am-4pm This new bug-centric exhibit gives kids of all ages the chance to learn about a variety of insects and includes a live bug zoo that is home to a Malaysian forest scorpion and a goliath bird-eating tarantula.

The hands-on activities include puzzles, games and dress up. Visit mydiscoverycenter.org for more information.

THROUGH OCT. 31

National Golden Retriever Show

World Equestrian Center, 1390 NW 80th Ave., Ocala Goldens perform hunt tests, field and agility trials.

Oct. 30, is the Best of Breed show followed by two dog parades. For event schedule, visit 2021.grcanational. com/schedule.

OCT. 30

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

OCT. 30

Show Stoppers Car Show & Collector Auction World Equestrian Center, Arena II, 1390 NW 80th Ave., Ocala

9am-5pm See cars on display before an auction. Event features awards, door prizes and giveaways. Details at facebook.com/showstoppersauction.

NOV. 1

Monday Morning Books and Coffee

Fort McCoy Public Library, 14660 NE Highway 315 10:30am Make new friends and talk about “Girl in Disguise”

by Greer Macallister.

NOV. 3

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

NOV. 3

Wednesday Midday Market Ocala Downtown Market, 310 SE Third St. 1-6pm

NOV. 4

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

Community listings continued on page, B6

B6

OCTOBER 29 - NOVEMBER 4, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

community continued from B5 NOV. 5

Champagne Dreams Country Club of Ocala, 11008 S. Hwy. 475, Ocala 7-11:30pm Get gussied up, socialize and sing along to Dueling Pianos to benefit the Transition Life Center.

Beverages and hors d'oeuvres included with $150 ticket. tlcocala.org.

NOV. 6-7

NOV. 10

37th Annual Ocklawaha River Raid Florida Horse Park, 11008 S. Hwy. 475, Ocala 9am-4pm Re-enactors commemorate the March 1865 Union army raid on area plantations and the resulting skirmish with local Southern troops, the only battle of the Civil War to occur in Marion County. For more information email ltcol2ndbattalion@gmail.com.

Forest Readers Book Club Forest Public Library, 905 S County Highway 314A, Ocklawaha 2:30pm "The Boys in the Boat" by Daniel James Brown.

Registration required; call 352-438-2540.

See story on page B3

government NOV. 2

NOV. 3

Ocala City Council Meeting

110 SE Watula Ave., Ocala 5pm Those who wish to make a public comment may download a speaker request form and email it to the City Clerk’s office at clerk@ocalafl.org beforehand or submit in-person at the meeting; or utilize right to speak during regular public comment.

arts OCT. 29

The Builders Round Table

Marion Zoning & Development, 2710 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala 7:30-9am The Builder’s Roundtable is a service provided to all active members (builders, associates and affiliates) who are interested in improving their working relationships with Marion County. Visit ocalafl.org for details.

OCT. 30-31

THROUGH JAN. 22

Dark Arts Spectacle

Micanopy Fall Festival

Lisa Russo | European Elegance

Magnolia Art Xchange, 531 NE First Ave., Ocala 7pm The Magnolia Art Xchange transforms into a Temple of Art featuring the works of Ryan Neumann, Andrew James Raymond and Teddy Sykes. Visit MAX’s Facebook page for details and updates.

Cholokka Boulevard, downtown Micanopy Sat: 9am-5pm Sat.; Sun: 9am-4pm Artists, crafters and musicians inspire and entertain visitors to the anticipated annual event in a quaint main street setting with turn-of-the-century (and older) homes and storefronts. Edward M. Wanton founded the town, named after a Seminole chief, in 1821. Find out more at micanopyfallfestival.org.

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.

NOV. 4-27

A Breeze Through Fertile Gardens

OCT. 29-30

The Rocky Horror Picture Show Shadowcast Need Address 7:30pm Do the time warp again, dance, sing along, recite the lines with the performers of Insomiac Theatre, who re-enact the 1975 cult musical classic starring Tim Curry and Susan Sarandon in tandem with a screening of the film. reillyartscenter.com.

OCT. 30

Old Florida Cracker Craft Show & Thanksgiving Festival 4696 NE CR 329, Anthony 9am-4pm Harbison Farm Cattle & Produce hosts a large craft show and activities for the kids, including a costume contest; southern BBQ, sweet corn and other food vendors; and to top it all off, a pie and cake contest.

Call (352) 239-3552 for information.

OCT. 30

Master Class Series: Watercolor with Sue Primeau Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd.

10am-12pm Learn at your own pace with plenty of hands-on painting time in class and one-on-one instructor assistance. appletonmuseum.org.

OCT. 30

Nature in Balance: Exploring Flora & Fauna of Florida & South America Brick City Center for the Arts, 23 W. Broadway St., Ocala

3pm Curated by Scott Olsen, who gives a talk at 3pm, the exhibit features the photography of James Valentine and artworks from students of Peruvian artist Pablo Amaringo. Presented in honor of the 50th anniversary of the Quest Foundation, the exhibition launches the book “A Grand Unification of the Sciences, Arts and Consciousness” by Scott Olsen. mcaocala.org.

Classics & Cocktails: The Third Man Need Address 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.” reillyartscenter.com.

THROUGH OCT. 31

Paper Thin

Ocala Civic Theatre, 4337 E Silver Springs Blvd.

2 & 7:30pm This world premiere play tells the story of a determined Southern woman whose family kept their Mississippi farm afloat through hard times and Hurricane Katrina. So, why is she up on the roof with a bottle of whiskey? Visit ocalacivictheatre.com for tickets and more information.

NOV. 5

Coffee With the Conductor The Marion Theatre, 50 S Magnolia Ave. 10am Enjoy a cup of coffee with Matthew Wardell, Ocala Symphony Orchestra’s conductor, as he leads an in-depth discussion about the pieces and composers featured in the orchestra’s upcoming concerts.

Admission is free. Visit reillyartscenter.com for details.

THROUGH NOV. 17

Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd.

Tues-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 12-5pm This collection of paintings and drawings by Andrew M. Grant are inspired by the four elements: earth, air, fire and water. Visit appletonmuseum.org for more information.

THROUGH JAN. 2

Alison Saar: Works from the Permanent Collection Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd.

Tues-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 12-5pm This exhibit of printed works curated from the Appleton’s collection showcases Alison Saar, an internationally acclaimed artist who incorporates spiritual and political themes. Visit appletonmuseum. org for more information.

THROUGH APRIL 24

Heart of the Horse

Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd.

Tues-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 12-5pm The beauty and complexity of horses is revealed through 40 black-and-white photographs by Juliet van Otteren in the Appleton Museum’s new exhibit.

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.

Answers for page B4

Thanks to all who came out to talk with us during Fine Arts for Ocala’s Fine Art Festival last weekend.

Locals and tourists enjoyed the mild, not-so-oppressive early fall weather, plethora of food vendors, musical entertainment and, of course, skillful art in all media.

Kevin Lopez and Veronica Lopez and family

For us at the Gazette’s booth, it was wonderful to reconnect with the Lopez family who posed in our fall photo installation.

FAFO fall ’21

Please continue to reach out with story leads to the Gazette via email letters@ocalagazette.com.

B7

OCTOBER 29 - NOVEMBER 4, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Grace Episcopal

Holiday Bazaar

By Rosemarie Dowell Special to the Gazette

A

nn Anderson has been a part of Grace Episcopal Church’s annual holiday bazaar for so long she remembers when the popular event took place at the Harrington Hall Hotel on Main Street and not the church.

“We didn’t have a parish hall back then so we had it in the lobby of the hotel,” said Anderson, 86, who was baptized at the historic downtown church when she was a year old. “I remember helping my mother, Clara, set up for the bazaar when I was a little girl.”

That was back in 1946 and ever since Anderson has been a regular mainstay at the event, eventually lending her talent as a professional floral designer to create thousands of holiday displays, wreaths and centerpieces for the bazaar over the years.

Grace’s 75th annual Holiday Bazaar, a fundraiser for the Episcopal

Church Women (ECW), will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 13 at the landmark church, at 503 E. Broadway St., Ocala.

Besides floral arrangements, patrons will find a cornucopia of homemade fall and Christmas décor and gift items created by church members. There will be baked goods and meals to go too, as well as raffles for gift baskets and a Christmas quilt, along with a make-and-take craft for kids, said Mary Baggs, a key organizer of the event.

Gently used holiday decorations will be available as well.

This year, visitors who make a $10 donation can also ring the church bell prior to services during the Advent season, which begins Nov. 28. The church’s iconic entry, with its familiar red doors, will also be decorated for the holiday season and visitors can have their Christmas photo taken for a $10 donation as well, she said.

“Our beloved red doors are always open and having a family photo taken in front of them is a great way to

celebrate the holiday season,” said Baggs, a member of the church for the past 26 years, who recently retired from AdventHealth Ocala.

“Who wouldn’t love to ring our church bell during Advent season ,” she said. “It’s a way for us to honor the history that’s happened here.”

Last year, like so many events, the bazaar was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, so this time around Anderson is thrilled to see its return.

“I love the bazaar and I’m so glad we’re having it,” said Anderson, widow of the late Dr. Edward Anderson, an Ocala dentist. “I love doing flowers and I love the ladies of the church.”

“The bazaar helps us help women and children in need in the community,” she said.

This year, as a nod to her impact on the bazaar’s success over the past six decades, Anderson, the mother of three adult children, sons Nick and Tom Anderson, and daughter Merrill Anderson, will have her own individual table set up, lending her

expertise to patrons who want to design their own centerpiece.

“I’ll have the greenery in them already,” said Anderson, former owner of a floral design shop called Ann’s Personal Touch. “Then I’ll help them choose decorations and bows to add as they like.”

Grace Episcopal Church was established by six families in 1849 and has been at its present location on East Broadway Street since1905, when its original sanctuary on Washington and Orange streets was taken apart by carpenters and rebuilt on the new site.

Soon after, in 1907, Anderson’s grandfather joined the church. Her father, Dr. Thomas Henry Wallis, grew up in the church as well and started his medical practice in 1929 during The Great Depression.

For the octogenarian, Grace has been a central part of her family’s life for nearly 115 years.

“It’s an amazing church with wonderful people and I’m so glad to be a part of it for so long,” said Anderson.

entertainment CALENDAR OCT. 29

OCT. 30

NOV. 3

Jeff Jarrett

Backwater Jam

Trivia Night

7 pm

6pm

6:30pm

Yellow Pony, World Equestrian Center

Fire Rock Irish Pub, Silver Springs

For details, visit wec.net

For details, call (352) 625-0879

OCT. 29

OCT. 30

Yellow Pony, World Equestrian Center

La Cuisine, Ocala

JR Lewis

Gosia & Ali

7 pm

6-10pm

For details, visit wec.net

OCT. 30

For details, visit lacusineocala.com

NOV. 1-3

REL Band/ Halloween Party

Comedian Jersey,

7-11pm

6:30pm

The Charlie Horse, Ocala

For details, visit ocalacharliehorse.com

The Haitian Sensation Lazy Mac’s Taco Shack, 1000 Old Mill Run, The Villages For details, visit lazymacs.com

The Charlie Horse, Ocala

For details, visit ocalacharliehorse.com

NOV. 4

Jammin’ @ The Junction Morgan’s Music Junction7

7 pm

For details, visit morgansmusicjunction.com

B8

OCTOBER 29 - NOVEMBER 4, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

300 miles

>> How a silver lining forms >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>

It starts at sea.

Tropical waters heat up.

Warm air soars skyward.

Cold air rushes to the void.

Cold air warms up.

Cycle repeats.

Faster and faster—a 50,000 foot engine of air.

At seventy four miles per hour it earns a name.

Harvey, Irma, Katrina.

Then landfall.

Roads rendered useless.

Buildings destroyed.

Families stranded.

But for a brief moment, A silver lining appears.

People see neighbors instead of strangers.

And labels that divide are forgotten.

>> But when rains ease, >> when clouds part, >> silver linings need not fade.

I’M A NEIGHBOR NOT A VIRUS. >> >> >> >>

Let’s Let’s Let’s Every

embrace our shared humanity. connect with one another. find our love for each other. single day.

>> Come together at lovehasnolabels.com

2 9 . 7 6 0 4 °

N ,

9 5 . 3 6 9 8 ° ,

W

S F C

1 3 4

I was walking to the post office and all of a sudden an older white man spit three times towards my direction.

I felt so violated. I’m a neighbor, not a virus.

Fight the virus. Fight the bias.

Learn more @ lovehasnolabels.com/fightvirusbias

B9

OCTOBER 29 - NOVEMBER 4, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Sports There’s nothing else like it

FAST head coach has big plans for the community in new elite swimming facility

By James Blevins james@ocalagazette.com Last month, Florida Aquatics Swimming & Training (FAST) named Brian Schrader head swim coach at its new elite facility, currently under construction within the master-

planned community of Calesa Township in Ocala.

Schrader has big plans for the facility after its scheduled grand opening next year. With that said, he’s also glad to have the next five months to properly prepare what he hopes to offer the community starting in

March.

“I’m happy with March because there’s a lot to do before then,” Schrader said.

“We have to create all the programming. We have to hire staff. We have to hire a facilities director. We just have to get ready.”

As head swim coach, Schrader is responsible for all operational aspects of the swim team while also coaching all swimmers to attain their

personal best in and out of the pool, regardless of age or fitness level.

The new facility will have indoor and outdoor pools to maximize deck space for up to 800 swimmers and over 2,000 spectator seats, which will help allow both warm-up and cool down swims during meets.

Whether outside in the sun or inside away from the cold, swimmers will find that the See Elite, page B9

Newly named Head Swim Coach of Florida Aquatics Swimming & Training (FAST) facility Brian Schrader.

Colts outlast Falcons at home in 17-10 win

By James Blevins james@ocalagazette.com

Bruce Ackerman/OG

Trinity Catholic’s Amelia Fitzpatrick (0) and Elayna Johnson (98) combine to block a spike from Providence School’s Maddox Roman (5) during the regional quarterfinal at Trinity Catholic High School in Ocala, on Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2021.

Trinity Catholic defeats Providence School 3-0

It was set to be a tough game for the North Marion Colts football team Friday night at Stan Toole Memorial Stadium. It needed to outrun, out pass and outlast a desperate district rival in visiting Menendez.

The Falcons were 1-0 in District 5A-4 before Friday night’s game, with a 3-4 overall record. A win would have given Menendez some wiggle room in the district, with the Colts scheduled to play against fellow district rival, Clay (3-0 district, 6-2 overall), on Oct. 29 for the district title.

But the Colts shut the door on any possible wiggle room the Falcons might have hoped to gain. Instead, North Marion (now 3-0 against district opponents and 5-3 overall) had plans of its own.

After Menendez scored the game’s first touchdown on its opening possession in the first quarter, the Colts would answer with 17-straight points, outplaying and then outlasting Menendez for the 17-10 win on Oct. 22.

North Marion head coach Greg Carr was proud to see his Colts team find a way to win,

Celtics advance to Region 3A-1 semifinal

By James Blevins james@ocalagazette.com

T

he visiting Providence School Stallions gave Trinity Catholic a challenge Tuesday night in a Region 3A-1 quarterfinal match on Oct. 26, but the Celtics remained poised at home and took the win.

The No. 2 seed Trinity Catholic won in three-straight sets—25-19, 25-12 and 25-15— over the No. 7 seed Providence to advance to next week’s regional semifinal.

The Celtics will next host the winner of the

See Colts, page B10

quarterfinal match between No. 3 Montverde Academy and No. 6 Trinity Prep on Nov. 2 at 7 p.m.

In the opening frame of Oct. 26’s quarterfinal match, the defending state champion Celtics got out to a quick lead, only to watch the Stallions slowly claw their way back into the set.

Down 14-6 in the first, Providence would score 10 of the next 15 points to narrow the score to 19-16. Seniors Josie Brooks and Ella Roberson would help lead this climb back for the Stallions from the service line.

See Trinity, page B11

Bruce Ackerman/OG

North Marion’s Eric Davis (26) takes down Menendez’ Julian Quintero (4) during a football game at North Marion High School in Sparr on Friday, Oct. 22, 2021.

GAME OF THE WEEK

By James Blevins james@ocalagazette.com

Ocoee @ West Port

The West Port Wolf Pack football team has struggled all year to win its first game of the regular season.

Losing its first seven games, West Port only recently notched win number one on Oct. 22.

The Wolf Pack bested district rival Evans 20-13 at home.

Hoping that last Friday’s success wasn’t a fluke, the Wolf Pack (1-7 overall, 1-1 in District 8A-3) will host another district rival in Ocoee tonight at 7 p.m., looking for win number two.

The Knights sport a 5-2 overall record and are currently 1-1 in the district. They also beat Evans on Oct. 15 to the tune of 30-23. Their one loss in the district came last Friday to Lake Brantley 36-33 on Oct. 22.

Bruce Ackerman/OG

West Port players run onto the field before their game against Vanguard during a football game at West Port High School in Ocala on Friday, Sept. 3, 2021.

West Port also lost to Lake Brantley 21-14 on Oct. 1.

Among the Wolf Pack’s first

seven losses include losses to Jesuit (35-0) on Aug. 27; Vanguard (21-0) on Sept. 3;

North Marion (24-0) on Sept.

10; Forest (15-12) on Sept. 17; Hawthorne (52-20) on Sept. 24; and Apopka (44-0) on Oct. 15.

Ocoee won its first four games against Oak Ridge (310), Wekiva (14-13), Olympia (34-13) and East Ridge (51-0).

It dropped a game to West Orange (28-0) on Oct. 11.

With only two games left in the regular season, West Port could end its 2021 campaign on a high note.

A win against the Knights tonight and a win against the Dunnellon Tigers on Nov. 5 (both games at home) could do a lot to help the Wolf Pack forget those first seven regular season games, while creating a new set of memories any prep football team would be proud to have.

OTHER AREA FOOTBALL GAMES

Oct. 29 Clay @ North Marion (5-3) 7 p.m.

Vanguard (8-0)

@ Springstead 7:30 p.m.

Citrus @ Dunnellon (6-2) 7:30 p.m.

Forest (3-5) |@ Buchholz 7:30 p.m.

Trinity Catholic (5-2) @ Yulee 7:30 p.m.

Shorecrest Prep @ Ocala Christian Academy (10-0) 7 p.m.

BYE WEEK Belleview (7-2)

B10

OCTOBER 29 - NOVEMBER 4, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Elite Swimming Facility

By James Blevins james@ocalagazette.com

Bruce Ackerman/OG

A North Marion Receiver (88) sprints past Menendez’ Jason Stroy (26) and Terrell Newsome (8) on his way to a touchdown during a football game at North Marion High School in Sparr on Friday, Oct. 22, 2021.

Colts beat Falcons

By James Blevins james@ocalagazette.com It was set to be a tough game for the North Marion Colts football team Friday night at Stan Toole Memorial Stadium.

It needed to outrun, out pass and outlast a desperate district rival in visiting Menendez.

The Falcons were 1-0 in District 5A-4 before Friday night’s game, with a 3-4 overall record. A win would have given Menendez some wiggle room in the district, with the Colts scheduled to play against fellow district rival, Clay (3-0 district, 6-2 overall), on Oct. 29 for the district title.

But the Colts shut the door on any possible wiggle room the Falcons might have hoped to gain. Instead, North Marion (now 3-0 against district opponents and 5-3 overall) had plans of its own.

After Menendez scored the game’s first touchdown on its opening possession in the first quarter, the Colts would answer with 17-straight points, outplaying and then outlasting Menendez for the 17-10 win on Oct. 22.

North Marion head coach Greg Carr was proud to see his Colts team find a way to win, Continued from B9 despite going down early in the first quarter.

“They didn’t let one thing get them down tonight,” said Carr after the game. “They never lost their focus. They stuck together and when it came time to make plays, they made plays. They buckled down after [the Falcons] scored and made it a competitive football game after that.”

Tabias Brown would take a direct snap to the house on first and goal for the Falcons, capping an 11-play drive with the game’s first points at 8:33 of the first quarter.

Menendez placekicker Bryce Addison would add the extra point for the 7-0 Falcons lead.

Roughly five minutes later, North Marion would answer on its own nine-play drive.

Quarterback AJ Cussins found wide receiver Caleb Rollerson all alone in the end zone for the first-and-goal reception

Bruce Ackerman/OG

Menendez’ Tabias Brown (5) makes North Marion’s Tommy Harward (13) miss during the game at North Marion High School in Sparr.

“Each week is about building up momentum to face a team like Clay. We’re going to have to put an even better game together if we want to win.”

Greg Carr Coach

touchdown at 2:02.

Colts placekicker Justin Stopford added the extra point a moment later to lock things up, 7-7, as time ran out in the first frame.

On their first possession of the second quarter, it was the Colts this time finding the end zone early—and in spectacular fashion.

Cussins tossed an 89-yard pass to the outstretched hands of wide receiver Kel’veyon Johnson, who hauled in the pass and scored the touchdown for the Colts at 9:43.

After Stopford kicked the extra point, North Marion was ahead for the first time in the game, 14-7.

The Falcons would nearly add some points of their own

on their next possession, finding themselves in excellent field position after the Colts fumbled a punt return deep in their own territory. But North Marion’s defense wouldn’t give Menendez an inch.

Addison would miss a 25yard Falcons’ field goal attempt at 4:52 of the second quarter, after the Colts’ defense stopped every Menendez attempt to add anything more substantial than three points.

With time running out in the first half, and after the Colts had just turned the ball over on downs—once again, deep in their own territory— full safety Jermaine Jackson, Jr., would jostle the ball loose from Falcons quarterback Noah Lawless as he ran towards the end zone on first and goal, giving North Marion the ball back with just over a minute remaining in the half.

With only seconds left, the Colts would march down the field to attempt a field goal of their own. But Menendez, keeping the score 14-7 going into the break, would block Stopford’s kick.

North Marion opened the second half with a 12-play drive down the field, resulting in a 21-yard Stopford field goal at 7:46, giving the Colts the 10-point lead they would carry into the fourth quarter.

Menendez would add some points to its total with a field goal at 2:10 of the fourth frame,

SUPPORT LOCAL JOURNALISM OCALAGAZETTE.COM/SUBSCRIBE

Last month, Florida Aquatics Swimming & Training (FAST) named Brian Schrader head swim coach at its new elite facility, currently under construction within the master-planned community of Calesa Township in Ocala.

Schrader has big plans for the facility after its scheduled grand opening next year. With that said, he’s also glad to have the next five months to properly prepare what he hopes to offer the community starting in March.

“I’m happy with March because there’s a lot to do before then,” Schrader said. “We have to create all the programming. We have to hire staff. We have to hire a facilities director. We just have to get ready.”

As head swim coach, Schrader is responsible for all operational aspects of the swim team while also coaching all swimmers to attain their personal best in and out of the pool, regardless of age or fitness level.

The new facility will have indoor and outdoor pools to maximize deck space for up to 800 swimmers and over 2,000 spectator seats, which will help allow both warm-up and cool down swims during meets.

Whether outside in the sun or inside away from the cold, swimmers will find that the Contiued from B9 new facility makes either option possible, all-year round, for a variety of different athletes and events.

“There are seats for 700 people outside,” said Schrader. “So if we wanted to host an event out there, easily done.”

A splash pool with lounge seating and shade will also be available for younger swimmers. The facility will house an indoor fitness center, state-of-the-art scoreboards, men’s and women’s locker rooms and community meeting spaces.

“Everybody’s going to be excited to walk into that facility,” said Schrader. “I want to make sure that we’re running appropriate-level programs for everybody that wants to be involved, whether it’s the nine-year-old that is just learning to swim as a competitive athlete, to the high school athlete that just wants to stay involved for peer and community engagement, to the elite athlete hoping to make the Olympic team.”

The Circle Square Foundation’s mission and vision for FAST, according to its website, is to train swimmers and athletes of all ages and abilities to go beyond their best through exceptional coaching, premier facilities and cutting-edge athletic programs.

“Those initiatives alone from a private foundation are pretty amazing in and of itself,” said Schrader. “And then clearly the facility is going to support elite level swimming when it comes to either in the form of competitions, training trips, elite athletes that want to come train, and certainly the elite athletes that we’re going to develop because we’re creating our own pipeline.”

Bottom line, said Schrader, there is going to be nothing else like FAST’s new facility in Marion County when its finished.

“The community involvement—from teaching, providing swimming lessons free to every third grader—to what they’re intending on doing, providing quality programming for community access. It’s a pretty amazing thing that really caught my attention,” he explained.

With a decorated coaching career that encompasses coaching age-groupers, swim camps and collegiate athletes, to extensive international Olympic team experience, Schrader, an ASCA Level 5 coach, who holds a National Strength and Conditioning CSCS certification, will be the first head swim coach at the brand new facility.

Schrader was an assistant coach to Head Olympic Coaches Eddie Reese, Jack Bauerle and Greg Troy. He also served as head coach at the University of Denver for 13 seasons from 20062019. Currently, Schrader is lead assistant coach for the Cali Condors of the International Swimming League.

Growing up in northwestern Iowa, Schrader didn’t form a meaningful relationship with a pool till he moved to Greeley, Colorado, when he was 12 years old, but he fully understands what a community pool means to those who use it. “[Community pools] become part of who you are,” he said. “It was a big part of the community where I grew up…the neighborhood pool across the street. It really becomes a part of your life.”

Marion County’s need for a new community pool began after lease agreements between the College of Central Florida (CF) and a nonprofit Ocala Aquatics ended.

Ocala Aquatics had leased the facility, offering swimming lessons and recreation team sports to the community since 2003.

CSF Aquatics, LLC managed by the same principal as the Foundation building the FAST pool, swooped in to help keep swimmers from being displaced during the new pool’s construction by entering into a lease agreement with the college, keeping its pool accessible through April 30, 2022.

“The idea of a community replacing a

B11

OCTOBER 29 - NOVEMBER 4, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Vanguard volleyball moves on

sweeps Freedom 3-0 in Region 5A-2 quarterfinal

By James Blevins james@ocalagazette.com Vanguard made it look easy through the first two sets of Wednesday night’s Class 5A regional quarterfinal match against the visiting Freedom Patriots on Oct. 27. It was set three that nearly tripped the Lady Knights up.

When Freedom took their first lead of the match midway through the third set and was seemingly poised to extend the match, Vanguard successfully recovered its rhythm just in time.

The No. 2 seed Knights pulled back into the lead to close out the regional quarterfinal in three-straight sets, defeating No. 7 seed Freedom 25-5, 25-8 and 2518, punching their ticket to the Region 5A-2 semifinals.

Vanguard will host No. 3 seed Gateway on Nov. 3.

Head coach Luis Perez said after the game that his team is finally fully healthy and peaking at the perfect moment of the season, when every win really counts.

“They came out strong,” said Perez of his Vanguard team Wednesday night.

“Our [overall] record tells a different story of this team than they showed out on the court today. We had a really hard schedule and we had a lot of girls get hurt this season.

But now, everybody is healthy,

everybody is dialed-in—and you can see the difference.”

The Knights finished the 2021 regular season with an overall record of 8-17. They have won all three of their last three matches, including a District 5A-5 title.

“They’re supporting each other and really coming together,” Perez added.

Vanguard opened the first set by scoring the initial five points with ease. Sophie Reed served an ace, while teammate Emma Ehmann pounded down two kills. Freedom made two errors.

From there it was a Knights’ tag team at the baseline. Ehmann had six additional kills. Reed and freshman Lilli Hart had three kills apiece.

Freedom would only score one kill of its own in the first set (junior Dahlia Palacios scored the Patriots’ first point). The rest of its first-set points came from gifts the Knights gave on faults and errors.

Ultimately, Vanguard took the first set 25-5.

Set two was nearly a mirror image of set one as far as effort and the end result are concerned. Reed would have two aces and two kills, respectively. Ehmann stood tall once again with six kills.

Junior Ruby Owen would step out in a big way in the second set, making a huge

Bruce Ackerman/OG

Vanguard’s Sarah Beville (25) and Ronya Hamed (6) block a shot from Freedom’s Liliana Palacios (11) during the regional quarterfinal at Vanguard High School in Ocala, Fla. on Wednesday, Oct. 27, 2021. Vanguard won the match in straight sets.

impact in the game. She notched six kills of her own behind Aria Eisel’s serve early in the set, putting the Knights up 12-2 before the Patriots knew what hit them.

Vanguard won the second set from there with ease, 25-8.

But the third set would be a different story entirely.

Freedom scored the first two points off errors made by the Knights, who would recover, scoring the next eight points.

The Patriots would next have their best point series in the quarterfinal behind Olivia Pliska at the service line.

Pliska and the Patriots would force Vanguard into making four costly errors—one point coming on a particularly long rally that seemed to break the Knights’ spirit for a moment when they knocked the ball out of bounds on close to the 30th reception between both squads.

Trinity beats

Providence

Continued from page B1

Brooks had one ace, while Roberson would help force three-straight errors from the Celtics’ side of the court.

Stallion Robinson Repass had two blocked shots and teammate Katelyn Baxley had a kill during the same 10-point series.

Junior Amelia Fitzpatrick would lead the Celtics reset from the service line, producing two points. Camden Crews would add an ace, followed by a Kiana Laborde kill, as Trinity Catholic put themselves back on top—despite a few more Repass points (a kill and a block)—taking the first set 25-19.

Early in set two, Trinity Catholic was dominant. Providence would get as close as three points down, 6-3, at one early point, but Trinity Catholic would stretch that three-point lead into six points in short order.

Laborde, who led all Celtics with 15 kills in the match, had five kills in the second set alone, helping to put her team up 14-6.

But the Stallions wouldn’t go away.

Down 16-9, Providence would score three-straight points off a Repass kill and two Trinity Catholic errors to come within four points of the Celtics.

Not until senior Cayleigh Pelletier took over service did the Celtics once again regain control over the set. She would serve the next nine points, notching two aces, while Fitzpatrick

and Laborde hammered home a couple of kill shots, closing out set two 25-12.

The Stallions would do in set three the one thing that hadn’t done yet in the match, they would take the lead. Scoring the first two points, Providence looked like a different team for a little while. That is, before Trinity Catholic its rhythm.

The Celtics tied the third set up at 4-4 behind Pelletier’s service and Laborde’s nearly unstoppable spike from the net. But Providence would regain its lead.

Up 8-5, the Stallions looked poised to stretch the game out by another set—a rare feat against the Celtics this season, who had a 21-4 overall record going into Tuesday night’s match.

Mckenna Yates would start Trinity Catholic’s comeback from the service line though. Behind her and Fitzpatrick’s serve, the Celtics would score 10 of the next 11 points, putting themselves back on top 15-9.

Providence would fight back a little, getting as close as eight points behind, but Pelletier and Fitzpatrick would take over the set, punching the Celtics’ ticket to the next round of the state playoffs.

Fitzpatrick (a total of eight kills in the match) would accrue the final two points, scoring a blocked shot and a kill, wrapping the third set and the quarterfinal match up, 25-15.

Above: Trinity Catholic’s Amelia Fitzpatrick (0) sets the ball against Providence School during the regional quarterfinal at Trinity Catholic High School in Ocala on Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2021.

Right: Providence School’s Lexi Patania (2) digs the ball against Trinity Catholic.

Photos by Bruce Ackerman/OG

Freedom would lead by one point for one service point before Vanguard would regain its composure and the lead, pulling away with the match before long.

The Knights battled back to win the third set 25-18, advancing to the next round of the state playoffs.

Next week’s regional semifinal match will begin at 7 p.m.

B12

OCTOBER 29 - NOVEMBER 4, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

SCORE BOARD Selected Marion County High School

SPORTS RESULTS OCT. 18-22

Prep Football Scores

Girls’ volleyball scores Oct. 18-22

Oct. 21

Oct. 18

Trinity Catholic 42, Victory Christian Academy 14

District 4A-4 Quarterfinal at Santa Fe High School No. 3 seed Crystal River 3 No. 6 seed Dunnellon 0 (25-9, 25-5, 25-15)

Oct. 22

Menendez 10 North Marion 17 Academy at the Lakes 38 St. John Lutheran 40 Evans 13 West Port 20 Belleview 7 Vanguard 42

District 5A-5 Quarterfinals at Vanguard High School No. 4 Citrus 3, No. 5 Lake Weir 0 (25-21, 25-18, 25-23) No. 3 Belleview 3 No. 6 Leesburg 0 (25-15, 25-14, 25-14) District 2A-9 Quarterfinal at St. John Lutheran High School No. 1 St. John Lutheran 3 No. 8 First Baptist Christian Academy 0 (25-2, 25-6, 25-7)

Dunnellon 35 Leesburg 0 Forest 6 Hawthorne 27 Lake Weir 0 Citrus 42

Oct. 19

Oct. 20

District 6A-3 Quarterfinal at Forest High School No. 3 Forest 3, No. 6 Buchholz 0 (25-10, 25-20, 25-20) District 4A-4 Semifinal at Santa Fe High School No. 2 North Marion 3, No. 3 Crystal River 2 (25-21, 25-18, 17-25, 17-25, 15-8) District 7A-1 Quarterfinal at Creekside High School No. 3 Creekside 3, No. 6 West Port 1 (26-28, 25-15, 25-13, 25-4) District 5A-5 Semifinals at Vanguard High School No. 1 Vanguard 3, No. 4 Citrus 0 (25-12, 25-8, 25-16) No. 2 Lecanto 3, No. 3 Belleview 1 (17-25, 25-23, 25-10, 25-22) District 2A-9 Semifinal at St. John Lutheran High School No. 1 St. John Lutheran 3, No. 4 Meadowbrook Academy 0 (25-11, 25-8, 25-15)

District 3A-3 Semifinal at Keystone Heights High School No. 1 Trinity Catholic 3, No. 6 P.K. Yonge 0 (25-3, 25-13, 25-13)

District 3A-3 Final at Keystone Heights High School No. 1 Trinity Catholic 3, No. 3 Father Lopez 0 (25-6, 25-10, 25-9)

Oct. 21

Results were gathered from Maxpreps. com and Flrunners.com Compiled by James Blevins

Ocala Christian Academy 36 World of Knowledge 6

ER expertise

From heart attacks to strokes, AdventHealth provides comprehensive emergency care that leads to life-changing outcomes. With three convenient locations in Marion County, our world-class specialists use state-of-the-art technology to deliver expert emergency care when you need it most — so you can get back to life you love.

TheERExperts.com

District 6A-3 Semifinal at Leon High School No. 2 Chiles 3, No. 3 Forest 0 (2520, 25-22, 25-15) District 4A-4 Final at Santa Fe High School No. 1 Santa Fe 3, No. 2 North Marion 0 (25-4, 25-10, 25-7) District 5A-5 Final at Vanguard High School No. 1 Vanguard 3, No. 2 Lecanto 0 (25-17, 25-22, 25-10) District 2A-9 Final at St. John Lutheran High School No. 1 St. John Lutheran 3, No. 2 Redeemer Christian 0 (25-15, 2510, 25-18)

Oct. 22