Ocala Gazette | June 4 - 10, 2021

VOLUME 1 ISSUE 49

$2

June 6 D-Day 77th Anniversary

JUNE 4- JUNE 10, 2021

$7.8 million for CF health programs

By Carlos Medina carlos@ocalagazette.com Gov. Ron DeSantis on June 2 signed a record $100 billion budget for the slashing $1.5 billion with his line-item veto power.

Among the items surviving the veto pen were funding for several projects in Marion County, including the $7.8 million to renovate

the College of Central Florida’s gym to a health sciences facility.

“It’s nice that the governor recognized the value of our messaging on critical workforce expansion and the value of this project,” said James Henningsen, CF president.

The gym renovation plans include establishing three new health training programs and expanding a

24,000 square feet will house the respiratory therapist, cardiovascular technician, sonography and surgical technician programs.

The surgical tech program will transition to a two-year Associate of Science degree. The other A.S. degree programs.

Henningsen said renovation of the gym will take between 12 to 18

months, and work will start immediately.

Before accepting students, the programs would require accreditation, which is a deliberate process. The college plans to start hiring academic therapist and cardiovascular “We can’t start four programs in the same year. We will move forward based on the need,” Henningsen said.

The gym renovation Legislature failed to fund a $43 million project to build a four-story health science building at the college.

The new construction was approved in 2017, but only $6 million was ever apportioned for the 88,000-square-foot building.

Henningsen said the plan is now to use existing See CF, page A7

County considers how to spend $71 million

By Carlos Medina carlos@ocalagazette.com Marion County Commissioners on June 1 contemplated how to spend more than $71 million expected in COVID-19 related relief from the federal government.

In March, President Joe Biden signed the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan Act, which included billions in direct aid to counties.

Jeannie Rickman, an assistant Marion County administrator, said the county recently received half of the $71 million and must submit a preliminary spending plan to the federal government by Aug. 31.

Associated Press]

Riders Up Belmont Stakes favorites among local graduates

By Carlos Medina carlos@ocalagazette.com

S

aturday’s Belmont Stakes won’t have a Triple Crown contender this year, but

scheduled to run are Marion County graduates.

The opening favorite at odds of 2-1 is Essential Quality, who received his early training at Niall

Brennan Stables in Ocala. A son of Tapit, Essential Quality also ran in the Kentucky Derby, where he The horse was bred and is owned by Godolphin, the thoroughbred operation led by Dubai’s Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum. He will start from the No. 2 post position.

If Essential Quality wins the 1 ½-mile race it would be the second horse trained by Brennan

to complete the feat. In 2013, Brennan-graduate Palace Malice won the race.

Fellow local horseman, Eddie Woods, boasts two contenders in the 153rd Belmont Stakes at Belmont Park in New York.

Rombauer and Known Agenda both graduated from Eddie Woods Stable in Ocala.

Rombauer, a son of Twirling

suggested the commission consider a plan that would spend the bulk of the money, upwards of $49 million, on water and sewer infrastructure projects, followed by $12 million to replace the county’s lost revenue and another $10 million to assist organization.

But commissioners preferred keeping dollar amounts out of the recommendation and instead directed county administration to associated costs.

They did agree to keep the spending limited to the three categories suggested.

See Belmont, page A2

See Budget, page A6

Hot Wheels is ready to roll

By Ainslie Lee ainslie@ocalagazette.com

“His name should be Hell on Wheels, not Hot Wheels,” said Eddie Leedy, executive director of the Humane Society.

Those who know Hot Wheels best anxiously watched the pooch interact with Ocala Mayor Kent Guinn, who on June 2

polished dress shoes, something must’ve told Hot Wheels, who wore a blue necktie for the occasion, to be on his best behavior.

Humane Society volunteers watched in wonder as the canine took to Guinn like a pig to mud.

On March 30, Hot Wheels was found on the side of the road, covered by a blanket and unable to walk.

suspected abuse.

Guinn was there to issue a Mayor’s Recognition commending Hot Wheels for his determination, resilience and positive attitude.

But as of late, the seven-month-old puppy has been a lot to handle, leaving those at the Humane Society of Marion County worried the dog would commit a faux pas.

was struck with a baseball bat or a similar

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See Hot Wheels, page A2

of the Humane Society of Marion County, as they spend some time with Hot Wheels. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]

Inside: Homeless Shelter Plan ......... A3 Commentary ........................... A5 State News ...............................A8 New Forest Coach .................. B1 Creative’s Corner ................... B3 Calendar .................................. B5

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JUNE 4 - JUNE 10, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

From Belmont, page A1

2021 Belmont Stakes horses and local connections: Bourbonic – Essential Quality – Rombauer – Known Agenda – Rock Your World – Mayberry Farm

Marion-bred Medina Spirit drug test confirmed; Derby win in jeopardy

By Gary B. Graves and Stephen Whyno AP Sports Writers LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Bob

From Hot Wheels, page A1

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JUNE 4 - JUNE 10, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

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

Jennifer Hunt Murty jennifer@magnoliamediaco.com Carlos Medina, Managing Editor carlos@ocalagazette.com Bruce Ackerman, Photography Editor bruce@ocalagazette.com Ainslie Lee, Associate Editor ainslie@ocalagazette.com Sadie Fitzpatrick, Columnist sadie@ocalagazette.com Lisa McGinnes, Editor lisa@magnoliamediaco.com Susan Smiley-Height, Editor susan@magnoliamediaco.com

G Brooke Pace brooke@magnoliamediaco.com Emily Papa emily@magnoliamediaco.com A Evelyn Anderson evelyn@magnoliamediaco.com Sarah Belyeu sarah@magnoliamediaco.com Ralph Grandizio ralph@magnoliamediaco.com Lee Kerr lee@magnoliamediaco.com info@ocalagazette.com

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

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

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Ocala Mainstreet proposes homeless plan By ainslie@ocalagazette.com

that would include a community center featuring public restrooms and a public kitchen.

“This is the type of thing that can be opened during the day and provide services,” Schatt said.

“What we think we have come to the conclusion on is we are better served with multiple shelters located around the community than we are with one shelter in one specific location.”

However, finding multiple sites around the city to accommodate these hubs come with the challenge of finding communities that won’t oppose the addition.

But Schatt makes the argument that the community centers would only temporarily serve as a hub for the homeless until transitions to permanent housing begin flowing again.

“The concept here is this is a community center that is only necessary to service the community in a homeless-center capacity while we are working towards a housing-first model,” Schatt said. “When you get to a housing-first model, and you’re taking people that have a homeless issue and placing them in housing, you don’t need them in shelter beds anymore.

“That’s what we’re working towards. What is the bridge between where we are now and where we’re going?”

While city leadership and homeless advocates continue to wrestle with the question of how to resolve Ocala’s homeless issue, one local organization has pieced together a plan of action.

Ocala Mainstreet, a non-profit organization that focuses on “That’s what we’re revitalizing Ocala’s downtown working towards. area, proposed its “Pathway Home Project” to the city’s Community What is the bridge Redevelopment Agency (CRA) on between where we May 18 – the same night the Ocala are now and where City Council denied a special use permit for an outdoor emergency we’re going?” shelter.

Ted Schatt, a local attorney and -Ted Schatt president of Ocala Mainstreet, presented the proposal to the board during the regularly scheduled CRA meeting, which comes just before council According to the annual Point meetings. in Time census, which counts the According to Schatt, Ocala number of unsheltered individuals Mainstreet has been in discussion in an area, there were 210 with Interfaith Emergency unsheltered individuals when the Services and Lisa Rice, director of count was conducted Jan. 27-29. the Ocala/Marion County Joint This year’s number was up from Office on Homelessness, over the 2020’s count of 150. last year while they constructed With a growing homeless the Pathway Home Project. population and all of Ocala’s Schatt told CRA board emergency shelters having members that the lack of barriers and requirements for affordable housing in the Ocala entry, Ocala Mainstreet’s proposal area has been identified as “the hinges on the creation of campuses major problem” as community leaders look to transition into a housing-first model.

Rentals going for less than $1,000 a month are in high demand, Schatt explained. And of those lower-priced rentals that do exist, most are one or twobedroom and are subject to a waiting list.

Earlier this year, the Ocala Housing Authority was reporting its longest waiting times on record.

“That is not an unusual problem.

We have a lack of affordable housing,” Schatt said. “That’s not a homeless issue.

Homeless people sleep and rest in the Agape Garden at Interfaith Emergency Services. [Bruce Ackerman/ That’s just an us issue.

Ocala Gazette]

Marion County shifting gears on COVID-19 By Special to the Ocala Gazette

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And we’ve got to figure out how to do that. Ocala Mainstreet thinks that we can be helpful in that regard and we’re working towards that.”

With soaring rental prices, Ocala’s homeless population continues to swell.

Mark Lander, the administrator for the Florida Department of Health in Marion County, said the agency continues to change its approach on vaccinations and testing as COVID-19 cases in the area maintain a downward trend.

Lander’s comments came during a presentation to the Marion County Board of County Commissioners on June 1. The apparent ebb in the pandemic also spurred the commission to scale back the COVID-19 updates to once per month, instead of the unusual bi-monthly updates. Also, the protective plexiglass shields separating each commissioner on the dais were removed this week.

“The last day of testing at the Livestock Pavilion was this past Wednesday (May 26th),” Landers told commissioners.

The hope is that there will not be a need to reopen the facility for testing, as those seeking tests continue to decline. The percentage of positive test results also have dropped. As of Sunday, the positivity rate in Marion County dipped to 3.75%, the third week

in a row that the Mall. There was positivity rate has not enough demand declined. for the vaccine to Vaccinations continue the sites. have contributed “We feel that to these declining mass vaccination numbers, Lander sites, at this time, are said. unnecessary,” Lander The county said. reported 31,868 They hope cases and 984 deaths through May 28 since facilities capable of the start of the hosting individual pandemic in March community Mark Lander [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala 2020, according to Gazette] DOH records.

Lander referred to churches with Also, through May 28, more air-conditioned auditoriums, for than 130,000 local residents are example, could assist in bringing the vaccine to more remote locations. two doses of either the Moderna Anyone who wants a COVID-19 vaccine, can get one at the DOH in Johnson & Johnson version. Those Marion County at 1801 SE 32nd receiving at least one dose of a Ave. Vaccines are free. To register vaccine number more than 153,000 for an appointment, visit tinyurl. or about 44% of the eligible county com/MarionCOVIDvax or call 352population.

644-2590.

Lander said, the goal was to vaccinate 80% of those aged 65 to those 12 and older, while the and older by Aug. 1. That goal was Moderna vaccine is available to already met, he told commissioners. those 18 and older. Health care The county’s vaccination providers are now beginning to approach has also changed. They administer the vaccine to their have closed mass vaccination sites, patients. Check with your doctor for including the one at the Paddock details.

A4

JUNE 4 - JUNE 10, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Honoring the Fallen Photos by Bruce Ackerman, Ocala Gazette Highland Memorial Park held its annual Memorial Day event in Ocala on May 29. In addition to honoring the fallen veterans, the event featured

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JUNE 4 - JUNE 10, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Opinion Commentary

Kicking the homeless (problem) down the road them refuge and a measure of saw the need for

Sadie Fitzpatrick Columnist

You will go to work, take the kids to their activities and then come home tonight and crawl in between your crisp For more than 200 homeless people in the city of Ocala, the ability to sleep safely and securely is them huddle under trees, behind hedges or in the dark doorways of area businesses hoping to avoid detection by police and other street inside the gates of Interfaith protected by armed security and able to use restrooms, get meals and sleep soundly, without fear of being Karla Grimsley, CEO of Interfaith, says they have roughly 100 people on their October 2020 and April culled 122 people from

homeless camps were shut down in January and people began congregating outside Interfaith’s

Ocala City Council nixed an ordinance that would have allowed this emergency shelter to continue operating, saying the shelter violated city zoning rules against live near Interfaith spoke out against this ordinance, fearing it would attract more homeless to the area and lead to an increase in who has no vote on Council matters, showed a series depicting alleged drug use, violence and squalor among These photos pre-dated the open-air shelter, according to Despite the passionate pleas of Interfaith clients and homeless advocates, Council voted 3-2 to shut down the Archbishop Desmond Tutu said, “There comes a point where we need to

stop just pulling people out

County by 60 percent by

Yes, this open-air shelter can be seen as just pulling

suggestions:

temporary solution to what has become a permanent eliminating this shelter immediately placed 20 homeless people back on the streets to seek shelter in the doorways of area businesses and on the benches of local It is time for us as a community to go upstream ourselves hard questions to determine what has caused homelessness locally and what can be done to people becoming homeless or remaining homeless?

Can we provide more to our homeless population readily accessible to them, including those who lack addition of a day center serve our homeless community and relieve the strain on our healthcare, criminal justice and social services systems?

In a 2019 report by the Public Policy Institute Homelessness: The Long Way Home, the participants in this study sought to reduce

homeless individuals and families to connect them with social services that will move them from homelessness to stability; Local shelters are “high allow people to congregate facility could positively impact loitering and vagrancy activities among the homeless would create a central access point to allow the homeless to obtain the services they need;

pairs housing with case management and supportive services for the county’s chronically homeless; sheltering and transitional housing to rapid re-housing connects homeless families and individuals with permanent housing through assistance and targeted

issue of homelessness is in all of our backyards, and we must begin to take steps to temporary open-air shelter does not make this problem shelter would serve as a Interfaith and other local organizations dedicated to helping the homeless work to develop solutions for solving This is not a “them (the roots, we are a city that throws open its doors and we open our hearts and collaborate to ensure all of of a warm, secure place to lay To learn more about Interfaith Emergency contribute to their outreach

space to explore the character and quirks that make Ocala uniquely wonderful and

These suggestions can be put into action and made a reality if the Ocala

your own observations about

County Board of County

observations about Ocala?

organizations and our citizens

AP RN

Before you began reading this column this morning, you probably rolled out of your warm bed, took a steamy shower and

the streets or the

RN AP AP RN

Editor’s Note: Sadie Fitzpatrick uses this space to explore the character and quirks that make Ocala uniquely wonderful and occasionally irksome.

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JUNE 4 - JUNE 10, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

From Budget, page A1 The money can only be spent • To support public health expenditures.

• To address negative economic impacts caused by the public health emergency.

• To replace lost public sector revenue.

• To provide premium pay for essential workers.

• To invest in water, sewer, and broadband infrastructure.

Commissioner Kathy

Bryant asked for better accounting of the county’s

remaining from the $63.7

Audrey Fowler, the county’s budget director, said she would detail the losses

the losses.

departments pulled money out of their invested reserves to make up for budget would include the money plus lost interest.

Bryant asked if the county could use approximately $20 million

remains, according to the email, was now “community money” no longer subject to The county set aside the remaining $20 million for future vaccine and testing expenses.

was part of the $2.2 trillion March, could not go toward revenue replacement.

general counsel with the Marion County Clerk of Court and Comptroller,

spokesperson recently told the Gazette that the remaining funds under

million is no longer bound by

already released for payroll reimbursement. What

County Administrator Mounir Bouyounes said he

would bring back options to the commission for the $71 million but planned to focus heavily on water and sewer projects.

“If the business have special projects where there is a need, they need to put it in a plan and bring it back to us,” Bouyounes said.

Under the program, the county has until Dec. 31, 2024, to allocate the money and until Dec. 31, 2026, to complete all work and services.

City Council: No to liquor store; pronouns return

By Ainslie Lee ainslie@ocalagazette.com During the Ocala City Council meeting on June 1, more than a dozen people spoke out against a planned liquor store in their neighborhood, citing the potential for alcohol abuse and criminality.

According to paperwork Ocala, LLC was seeking a permit to sell beer, wine consumption for its planned liquor store, Discount Liquor, at 1500 W. Silver Springs Blvd. residents questioned how a the community, spurring the council to unanimously vote down the permit.

“The west side has already been plagued with

alcohol, homelessness, criminal activities,” Curtis Jones, a nearby resident, told councilmembers. “My question is – what would another liquor store in an area – in a place – where there’s already so much bad decisions being made.”

The property immediately to the south of the planned liquor store has had issues with reoccurring criminal activity, according to Tye Chighizola, the city’s growth management director.

Kings Food Mart has been the location of 42 criminal incidents over the last three years, Chighizola said.

Calls include 18 for disturbances, six for for narcotics and one for attempted murder.

Councilman Ire Bethea

Sr., who represents the area, added that those looking to purchase alcohol have several options nearby.

“There’s a liquor store on 27th, and there’s ABC on 200,” Bethea said. “And every store... every store, for the most part, sells beer and wine.”

Nearly a dozen residents spoke out against the proposal, citing the countless children that live in the area and the proximity to two churches, both of which are within proposed location.

Councilman Brent Malever said Madison Street Academy was also nearby before asserting he was against approving the permit.

“The area is inundated with youth. We have had some high crime, and we are trying to make a better

ASSISTED LIVING

quality of life for the people that live in that area. In order for that to happen, we have to be upfront about businesses that come in the area that may not be good for the immediate community,” Bethea said.

New pronoun proposal

city’s chambers to denounce the proposal of eliminating from the charter.

“I will tell you, I think this is a fair compromise from what was brought forth last time,” said Ocala Mayor Kent Guinn, who

nixed a proposed charter amendment to remove all pronouns from the document, the amendment returned. This time with the provision of adding the female equivalent to read as “he or she.”

The proposed amendment will have its

Expansion plans The council also unanimously approved a budget resolution for more than $1 million to expand the Ocala

on June 15. If approved, it will appear as a referendum on ballots during the city’s election on Sept. 21.

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JUNE 4 - JUNE 10, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

From CF, page A1 space and build one smaller new facility to make up the 88,000 square feet.

Renovation and construction would be done in phases.

The gym was available basketball and volleyball programs in 2020.

Henningsen said existing buildings near the gym could house other health sciences programs. They could open some general education classes online.

“That would free up space for the critical workforce labs that you can’t teach online,” he said.

The Southeastern Livestock Pavilion received $1 million to help complete the expansions at the facility, including build out of campsites, a sanitary depository, stormwater infrastructure, entry and exit roadways and additional paved parking areas, according to Marion County.

The money is the latest from the state which has consistently given the facility funding over the years. The site, owned by the county and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Sciences, hosts hundreds of events, many agricultural in nature,

every year. It also hosts the annual Southeastern Youth Fair, one of the oldest fairs in the country dating back to the 1940s.

In 2017, the facility 2232 NE Jacksonville Rd unveiled a 92,000-square-foot covered arena. The $2.17 million project was paid for largely with state funds.

The arena was built to host a more diverse number of equestrian and other events.

Two of the three budget items listed for Ocala also survived.

The item struck down was $1 million to help the city’s conversion to pumping water from the more sustainable, but deep, lower Floridian Aquifer. Another $500,000 water project to address leaking sewers made the cut.

Also approved was $1 million for the Southwest 44th Avenue expansion. The road would connect State Road 200 to US Highway 27 with the northern extension of the Southwest 42nd has been stagnant for more derailed by the 2008 great recession.

Overall, DeSantis described the spending

School district provides free summer meals Marion County Public Schools will continue providing children in the community with free meals over the summer as part of its Summer Food Service Program.

The district anticipates providing more than 200,000 meals to students this summer.

The CF Gymnasium. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]

government that is meeting the core concerns of Floridians,” during a billsigning ceremony at The Garlic restaurant in New Smyrna Beach.

“Once I sign this budget, we will be signing a budget that responsibly supports our men and women in law enforcement, our K-through-12 education students and teachers, conserves and protects our great environmental and natural resources throughout the state of Florida, but does so in a way that has the lowest per-capita tax burden of Families will receive

In addition to providing food to students each school summer school classes, meals will be provided at 22 base locations to families every Monday from June 7 – July 26. Food scheduled for July 5 will be given Tuesday, July 6, due to observance of the Independence Day holiday.

through curbside pick-up from 9 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. at participating locations.

Anyone 18 or younger is eligible for this program which requires no application Meal for students participating in the Boys and Girls Clubs in Dunnellon and Ocala, Lillian Bryant Community, E.D. Croskey

any state in the country,” DeSantis said. “If you would have said that a year ago, no one would have believed that that would have been possible.”

State Senate Democrats were quick to note the American Rescue Plan Act, which funneled billions of dollars to the state and bolstered the budget, was approved by congressional Democrats and Biden.

“A big chunk of the $10 billion from the federal stimulus act added to a bounty of transportation and economic development projects all over the state,”

Senate Democrats said in a statement. “The money even allowed the governor to dole out $1,000 bonuses to law enforcement,

Community Center, and Ocala YMCA will also be provided.

For more information, visit www.marionschools. net/Domain/14546, www. summerbreakspot.org, and schools.mealviewer.com.

The locations for the summer meals program include: Belleview Elementary, Belleview High, College Park Elementary, Dr. N.H. Jones Elementary, Dunnellon

Elementary, East Marion Elementary, Emerald Shores Elementary, Forest High, Fort King Middle, Fort McCoy School, Horizon Academy at Marion Oaks, Lake Weir Middle, Liberty Middle, Maplewood Elementary, Marion Oaks Elementary, North Marion Middle, Oakcrest Elementary, Reddick-Collier Elementary, Romeo Elementary, South Ocala Elementary, Vanguard High, West Port High.

line emergency workers.

Unfortunately, as he took his victory lap to hand out the bonuses and brag about the many programs rescued as a result of the federal help, the governor never once directed thanks to those who made this possible.”

July 1.

News Service of Florida contributed to this report.

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JUNE 4 - JUNE 10, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

State News Democrat Nikki Fried announces run for Florida governor

By Brendan Farrington Associated Press

announcement by posting a two-minute video on Twitter.

Fried, 43, is hoping

TALLAHASSEE — Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried announced Tuesday she’ll seek the Democratic nomination for governor, calling Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis an authoritarian who’s putting his party and political ambition ahead of Floridians.

Fried criticized DeSantis for trying to quash the voice of Floridians by signing bills

to win a governor’s race since Lawton Chiles was reelected in 1994. She’ll face former Republican Gov. Charlie Crist, who is now a Democratic U.S. Representative, in the primary.

“Charlie is a likable guy.

He’s certainly been a strong advocate for his constituents in DC. I hoped that he would stay in that seat,” said Fried, who said she is concerned that Republicans can take the St. Petersburg-area seat he’s giving up. “Charlie is putting his seat and our Democratic majority in jeopardy and I do believe that’s a mistake.”

Crist was elected governor in 2006, then ran for U.S. Senate in 2010 as an independent, losing to Republican Marco Rubio. He ran for governor in in 2014 as a Democrat, narrowly losing to Republican Rick Scott.

Crist’s campaign didn’t immediately comment on

to vote, crack down on protests and make it harder for citizens to change the constitution.

“Ron DeSantis has fully embraced the right-wing agenda and authoritarian style of governing that Florida,” Fried said in a phone interview. “If you don’t support him or the party, he’s going to stop you from voting. If you disagree with him, he’s going to silence you.”

She made her

Fried’s entry into the race.

Fried said she’s been a consistent supporter of Democratic issues. these issues my entire life. I was doing soup kitchens and Habitat for Humanity and gay pride parades back in high school. I don’t change my positions because of an election,” Fried said. “I stay true to who I am.”

Fried is Florida’s only statewide elected Democrat.

She won her seat in 2018 by 6,753 votes. She previously worked as a public defender and as a lobbyist for the medical marijuana industry.

She was elected student body president while attending the University of Florida.

Fried criticized DeSantis’ handling of the coronavirus pandemic. DeSantis opened up the state last summer and signed orders preventing local governments from issuing mask mandates and restricting businesses.

While DeSantis says his decisions on COVID 19 helped the state’s economy, Fried said he showed no

empathy for victims of the virus.

“I would have absolutely done a mandate on masks,” she said.

“It’s a piece of cloth over your face. We ask people every day when they get into the car, put on a seatbelt. You can’t walk into a restaurant without a shirt on. This is common sense in following the Nikki Fried [Submitted] science, which he never did.” pandemic response partisan She said the state’s and that should have never unemployment system failed been the case.” early in the pandemic and The Republican Party DeSantis did little to address of Florida used Twitter to people’s fears. criticize Fried’s position on “You had people that the pandemic. were scared and this Fried “tried to close governor did nothing to Florida schools and make them feel safe. He attempted to overturn went at this very angry, Governor DeSantis’ wanting to prove that he was Executive Order to get our right,” Fried said. “Instead kids back in the classroom. of being a governor for She is a lockdown lobbyist the entire state of Florida, who can’t be trusted to he was only following the make the right decisions for leadership of President Florida families,” the party Trump and making the tweeted.

State seeks dismissal of election law lawsuit

By Jim Saunders News Service of Florida TALLAHASSEE – Florida Secretary of State Laurel Lee is asking a federal judge to toss out a challenge to a controversial new elections law that includes additional restrictions on voting by mail.

that Lee should not be a defendant. Unlike the other two challenges, Lee is the only defendant in the

from the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational

Disability Rights Florida and Common Cause.

“Because enmity and hyperbole are no substitute for well-pled facts, this court should dismiss the

Nellie L. King in West Palm Beach contend that the law violates the U.S. Constitution, the federal Voting Rights Act and the American with Disabilities Act. “The 2021 voter suppression law is just the latest in a long line of voter suppression laws targeting Florida’s Black voters, Latino voters, and voters with disabilities.” the lawsuit said. “For far too long, Florida’s lawmakers

motion to dismiss a lawsuit

federal court in Tallahassee.

State Conference of the NAACP, Disability Rights Florida and Common Cause – one of three challenges to the elections law, which has drawn national attention.

The motion describes the lawsuit as a “shotgun” complaint that does not properly spell out allegations and contends

Ron DeSantis signed the elections law during an appearance on Fox News.

Republicans argued the measure was needed to ensure secure elections, while Democrats argued it was aimed at voter suppression.

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to the new elections law to “link the secretary to the injuries they allege and the relief they seek. This the complaint.”

The motion said the allegations in the lawsuit involve responsibilities of county supervisors of elections, not Lee. Those allegations deal with issues

such as drop boxes for voteby-mail ballots and reviews requests for vote-by-mail ballots.

The law addresses numerous issues such as drop boxes, which wrangled with DeSantis’ administration over the location of the boxes and whether they needed to be manned at all times.

The measure will allow supervisors to use drop boxes at early voting sites and “permanent” branch employees. Among other changes, the bill will require voters to request mail-in ballots more frequently than in the past.

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In the motion to dismiss, Lee’s attorneys cited a ruling last year by the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals that concluded the secretary of state was not a proper defendant in a case involving the order in which candidates are placed on Florida ballots.

Lee’s attorneys said the 2020 ruling requires the

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JUNE 4 - JUNE 10, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

DeSantis signs bill on transgender athletes

By Ryan Dailey News Service of Florida TALLAHASSEE – Speaking at a private school in

“only locations where hosts

During the legislative

athletes at Trinity Christian Within an hour of DeSantis signing

about participation of

challenging the new controversial bills of the “Sports have always

eligibility for sports “biological sex” on birth

are going to play boys’

The News Service of

DeSantis’ signing of the of an athletic opportunity” because of violations of the law will be able to sue their “We’re not just setting

National Collegiate Athletic

lawsuits “against the

as being purely political

association or organization”

largely focuses on charter schools in the waning

the legislation on the first anything other than saying we’re going to protect

groups like the NCAA who

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JUNE 4 - JUNE 10, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Red Rock doubles down on Ocala warehouse

By Joel Bronson Special to the Ocala Gazette Building a $50 million, 600,000-square-foot warehouse in Ocala on tenant was a risk. the Florida Crossroads Logistics Center to Amazon center in the location last year.

Now, the Columbia, South Carolina-based company is doubling down with plans for a second speculation facility. This time, plans call for more than 1 million square feet, and a third phase is also in the works. On June 2,

company along with local business leaders held a groundbreaking for the new project.

The second building project will reside within the industrial corridor directly Northwest 35th Street. It is near the Ocala/Marion County Commerce Park at which in addition to Amazon is also home to logistics centers for AutoZone, Chewy and FedEx. “Phases II and III will allow Florida Crossroads Logistics to continue logistics opportunities for industrial users,” said Leah Barker Bailey, director of

News in Brief Banner lottery applications open announced Wednesday that it is accepting application for its street banner lottery, which runs now through August 1 for the 2022 calendar year.

only.

Physical applications can be picked up at the City Fridays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Electronic copies of the application can be obtained by calling the Public

and CEO of the Ocala Metro Chamber and Economic commitment to the area is incredible partner, and we know this 1 million-squarefoot facility will be another homerun for the company, future tenant, and the community,” Sheilley said in a press release.

build more warehouses and logistic properties as the county continues to build its reputation as a logistics hub.

There are plans to build 5 million more square feet of warehouse space, Sheilley said.

One of those is the nearly 725,000-square-foot airport logistics park planned

during the groundbreaking of their latest project on June 2. [Joel Bronson/ Special to the Ocala Gazette]

for property adjacent to the Ocala International Airport. The project will be 325,000 square feet.

Ocala is strategically placed in the state, with Tampa and Orlando less than two hours away and

Lake Weir blue-green algae alert lifted Marion County on Thursday rescinded a green algae bloom in Lake Weir.

The original alert was released on May 17.

Blue-green algae (also known as waterbodies. Large concentrations of these color to blue, green, brown, orange, or red.

Blue-green algae can grow rapidly and sometimes form a foamy surface scum and an unpleasant odor.

Companies could potentially to more than 17.5 million customers.

The expected completion project is expected during the second quarter of 2022.

First Friday art walk applications now open The First Friday Art Walk Steering Committee is now accepting applications for the 2021-22 First Friday Art Walk season.

Applications are open for participating artists, arts and cultural organizations, and participating downtown businesses. The deadline for Friday Art Walk Steering Committee The new season of First Friday Art Walk will run from Sept. 3 throuhg May 6.

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JUNE 4 - JUNE 10, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Paw Patrol Champions for Champions, a group which works with individuals with disabilities of all ages, put

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May 27 – June 27 Sponsored by:

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JUNE 4 - JUNE 10, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

B1

Sports Hoffmann ready for new challenge at Forest High

By Joel Bronson Special to the Ocala Gazette Coaching basketball is High School head coach

Gator Bites Mullen gets 3-year extension, $1.5M raise annually

By Mark Long AP Sports Writer

Miskdeen joins UF basketball staff

UF’s Riffice wins men’s singles title

B2

JUNE 4 - JUNE 10, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

People, Places & Things Resurrected Destroyed painting replaced at Queen of Peace

By Ainslie Lee ainslie@ocalagazette.com Margaret Watts and Rich Woy anxiously watched as workers maneuvered the massive painting into place near the entrance of Queen of Peace Catholic Church.

Watts and Woy spent three months painting a copy of “The Resurrection” on the custom-cut piece of Belgian linen. The original is a 15th-century masterpiece by Piero della Francesca.

But at 16.5-feet by 9-feet, Watts and Woy’s towering replica took a six-man crew to install on May 28.

The painting replaces another copy done by Watts about 20 years ago which was destroyed on July 11 in an

arson attack on the church.

Queen of Peace’s pastor, Rev. Patrick O’Doherty, remembers coming face-toface with 24-year-old Steven Shields, who reportedly drove his minivan through the doors of the church and with gasoline before setting Shields, of Dunnellon, was apprehended that day later admitted to setting the he “had problems with the Catholic church,” according Shields is awaiting trial. damage to the church’s narthex and the art inside.

“The framework was still intact... charred, but unusable,” Watts said. “And the canvas was like it’d

the painting. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]

6-inch by 9 foot replica of the painting “Resurrection,” an oil on canvas by local artist Margaret “Peggy” Watts, into position at the Queen of Peace Catholic Church. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]

never been there. It just disintegrated. It was oil paint and had a coat of varnish on it, which goes up like a candle.”

For Watts, everything came full circle during the installation.

Twenty years ago, Watts watched her first interpretation of “The Resurrection”, take its place in the church. The anxiety she felt on Friday morning was familiar.

Watts can recall fearing the painting would come crashing down into the baptismal well, which is located directly below the piece of art.

But all went well as the painting, which was done to look exactly like the one that was destroyed in the fire, was secured to the wall.

This time around, Watts employed the help of Woy

Honorable Mentions Ocala serviceman in Philippine Sea PHILIPPINE SEA – Fire Controlman 3rd Class Joseph Parrish, from Ocala and Fire Controlman 2nd Class Blaize Owens, from St. Louis, load ammunition into a Phalanx Close-In Weapon System (CIWS) aboard the Ticonderoga class guided-missile cruiser USS Shiloh (CG 67) on May 20.

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for the project.

“I can’t climb anymore... ancient age,” Watts laughed. “He did the parts I couldn’t. He did the top half; I did the bottom half.”

Jesus’ waistline and below was completed by Watts, while Woy painted the upper parts of Jesus and the scenery behind him.

Despite their different painting styles, the work is cohesive.

“We critique each other,” Woy said. “It’s hard to develop a change in style to accommodate the original artist’s style. So that was a good challenge.”

According to Watts, she and Woy, with the help of Woy’s wife, projected the outline of the original painting onto the blank canvas and started from there.

Two decades ago, when Watts painted the first

rendering, she used a local junior college student as her model. And fortunately, she kept all the photos.

“Why I had saved all that is unbelievable,” Watts said. “I’m a thrower-away person.”

For three months, Watts and Woy spent an average of four hours a day working on the painting in a warehouse owned

by Pete Adolf, owner of Adolf Construction. The painting was stored in the warehouse for six months after its completion as the reconstruction of the narthex continued.

Adolf, who constructed the framework of the new painting, was on hand for the unveiling.

“It looks a lot better up there than it did in my shop,” Adolf said. “It was too big to go anywhere else.”

CareerSource CLM and CEP recognized with national partnership award CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion and the Ocala Metro Chamber & Economic Partnership have been recognized by the National Association of Workforce Boards (NAWB) for

[U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Rawad Madanat]

Ocala sanitation gets high marks The City of Ocala Public Works department recently received the results from a satisfaction survey that was conducted in early May and randomly sampled its residential and commercial sanitation customers.

Baldridge Group, LLC conducted the local survey, which was designed to gather feedback and better understand the opinions of the city’s collection practices. satisfaction rating of 98 of 100 percent. Meanwhile, 99 residential surveys were conducted, which provided an overall satisfaction rating of 96 out of 100 percent.

According to the City, survey responses will guide Public Works in its decisions regarding sanitation collections moving forward.

“We understand the importance of customer satisfaction and appreciate our customers’ willingness to provide feedback on services. This information allows us to focus on the customer experience and how we can meet or exceed their expectations,” said Darren Park, Public Works Director, City of Ocala. “Seeing the results in the upper percentiles lets us know we are moving in the right direction.”

For more information, please contact the City of Ocala Public Works Department at 352-351-6733.

and economic development.

The 2021 Laurie Moran Partnership Award, given jointly to a workforce development board and chamber of commerce, will be presented next month at NAWB’s annual Forum in Washington, D.C. It is one of NAWB’s three most prestigious awards, along with the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Trailblazer and W.O. Lawton awards.

Painter noted that CareerSource CLM was selected out of a large pool of nominations to win the Laurie Moran enhanced need for area workers, including youth-focused projects which draw younger workers into the local workforce.

The CEP is the 2020 National Chamber of the Year and has collaborated with CareerSource CLM on numerous initiatives to establish a talented and trained workforce, including its annual involvement with the Marion County Youth Career Expos.

Also earning NAWB honors are CareerSource Palm Beach County and the Capital Area Workforce Development Board (Raleigh, NC), recipients of the WIOA Trailblazer Award for work to advance WIOA’s impact in the community; and the Hospitality Training Academy (Los Angeles, Calif.) winner of the W.O. Lawton Award in recognition of its program to hire low-income families, persons experiencing homelessness and survivors of domestic violence and/or slavery.

To learn more about all of the award winners and NAWB’s annual event The Forum, please visit https://forum.nawb. org/.

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JUNE 4 - JUNE 10, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Creative’s Corner Hop, SKIP and Jump

Justin “Skip” Skipper, an artist from Orlando, sprays sealer on the mural “The Great Race” he painted on the north side of the Seminole Feed building on the Osceola Trak near Tuscawilla Art Park.

Artist completes OTrak Mural

By Lisa McGinnes Ocala Gazette Imagine people of all ages and abilities riding, rolling and running between the Downtown Ocala Market and Tuscawilla Park.

That was the vision for the Osceola, or OTrak, a mixed-use paved trail along Watula Avenue, which opened in 2019. That’s also the vision artist Justin “SKIP” Skipper brought to life through a new mural along the route.

“We’ve got a really cool, diverse group of different kinds of people,” Skipper said of “The Great Race,” a 215-foot-long mural on the

Seminole Feed building at 335 NE Watula Ave., across from Tuscawilla Lake.

“The theme is all different nationalities, age groups and different kinds of bikes,” he explained. “It’s essentially, start to finish, a big marathon, where there’s bike riders and runners and skateboarders and roller skaters and people on scooters.”

Skipper, a self-taught visual artist, musician and filmmaker based in Orlando, gave himself some sentimental reasons to return and visit his creation: He used reference photos of his friends and family as inspiration for the illustrations he projected

onto the 6-foot-tall wall to paint the characters.

“My fiancée is one of the people in there,” he revealed. “A couple of the characters on the wall are small children, one being my fiancée’s son and one being my best friend’s daughter. The idea that they could come out and take a picture with it and then come back in 10 to 15 years when they’re grown up and take a picture with it again, that is definitely a very interesting perspective. That’s really cool. I really dig it.”

The scene begins with sunrise behind a youngat-heart gentleman on a scooter, continuing with a young woman on roller skates, a skateboarder, a runner, a hand cyclist and many other bicyclists

depicted in the colors and patterns of midday then dusk, finally featuring a male cyclist raising his arms in triumph at the finish line.

“It’s really just analogous of life, and different people being at different points of their own races, and how we all kind of interact and coexist with each other,” Skipper said. “Regardless of whether you’re at the beginning of your race or the end of your race, everyone’s valid and we’re all existing together and we’re all on the same path together.”

According to the City of Ocala Cultural Arts and Sciences Division, “The Great Race” is the public art element for this year’s Levitt AMP Ocala Music Series.

The city based the concept for the mural on the idea of connectivity

and hopes the art will encourage use of the OTrak, said Laura Walker, Cultural Arts and Sciences Division Head.

Skipper, who calls art a “therapy device,” employed a variety of techniques including spray painting with stencils, sea sponge painting and using fine art brushes to detail the characters. He plans to share behind-the-scenes videos in an upcoming episode of his YouTube show “Skip’s Big Ideas.”

“I love being able to create things that people can enjoy, that create an improvement and make people a lot more connected with what’s going on around them,” he said. “It makes them feel proud of their area. I would love for there to be more of that. I’m glad I’m able to give them something different and new to look at.”

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B4

JUNE 4 - JUNE 10, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Then....and Now

The Florida Telephone Corporation building is seen in this circa 1974 photo from Southeast Osceola Avenue looking east.

Through the years the site has remained the hub of telephone service in Ocala. Over the years, the building has carried the banners of Sprint, Embarq and currently CenturyLink.

The center portion, shown in the photo bearing the FTC letters, was demolished.

The portion of the building to the right was renovated into condominiums. CenturyLink complex. [State Archives of Florida] The current view from near the same area on Southeast Osceola is now obstructed by a city parking garage built in 2016. While the buildings are no longer visible the phone company’s large antenna can still be seen poking [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]

B5

JUNE 4 - JUNE 10, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Community

Now -7/3

Magnificent Magnets

Now -8/6

Summer Kids Film Series

6/4-6

Summer Horse Show Series

Discovery Center, 701 NE Sanchez Ave. 10am-4pm

Marion Theatre, 50 S Magnolia Ave. 10 & 11am The Marion will show kids’ movies on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday mornings throughout the summer, beginning with “The Little Mermaid” and “WALL-E.” Visit mariontheatre.org for details.

World Equestrian Center 8am

6/5

Job Fair

6/5

Mower and Myrtles

6/5

Classics and Cocktails

6/4

McPherson Government Complex, 601 SE 25th Ave. 9am-2pm

Nan’s Farms, 411 NW 106th Ave. 10am-3pm

Marion Theatre, 50 S Magnolia Ave. 2pm No. Visit mariontheatre.org for details.

information.

Marion Oaks Farmers Market

Paddock Mall, 3100 SW College Road 10am-1pm

6/8

Medicare Part C

SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) - virtual 10-11:30am

freeze dried treats, olive oils and seafood.

6/4

McPherson Government Complex, 601 SE 25th Ave. 9am-2pm freeze dried treats, olive oils and seafood.

6/4 6/4

org

Marion County Friday Market

6/8

Novels at Night Book Club

6/8

Campaign School & Community Leadership Training

6/9

1 Million Cups Ocala

Ocala Public Library, 2720 E. Silver Springs Blvd.

Ten Warning Signs of Dementia

Ocala Public Library, 2720 E Silver Springs Blvd.

10:30am

Virtual

Reading With Rangers and Friends Tuscawilla Park, 829 NE Sanchez Ave. 11am information.

Power Plant Business Incubator, 405 SE Osceola Ave. 9:30-10:30am more information.

6/4

6/4

6/9

Be Scam Smart

Corvette Show

6/9

Wednesday Midday Market

Your Digital Footprint

more information.

6/10

6/10

Farmers Market

Ocala Civic Theatre, 4337 E Silver Springs Blvd.

SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) - virtual 10-11:00am

Ocala Downtown Market, 310 SE Third St.

CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion, 2703 NE 14th St. 9-11am

Herb Garden and Pizza

Fort King National Historic Landmark, 3925 E Fort King St. Adults are invited to make their own take-home mini herb

6/5

Yoga in the Park

Sholom Park, 7110 SW 80th Ave. 9am information.

6/5

Ocala Downtown Market

6/5

Brownwood Farmers Market

Circle Square Commons, 8405 SW 80th St. 9am-1pm more information.

6/10

Medicare Preventative Services

SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) - virtual 10-11:30am

310 SE Third St. 9am-2pm

2726 Brownwood Blvd., Wildwood 9am-1pm

Now Spike Heels -6/19

Arts

The Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center, 1051 Main St., The Villages

more information.

Now -6/21

People

Barbara Gaskin Washington Adult Activity Center, 210 NW 12th Ave. 9am-4pm

Now The Audience -6/25

Ocala Recreation and Parks Administration, 828 NE Eighth Ave.

Now Million Dollar Quartet -6/27

Ocala Civic Theatre, 4337 E Silver Springs Blvd.

B6

JUNE 4 - JUNE 10, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Now Luminous Worlds -6/27

6/8

Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 12pm-5pm An exhibition featuring the large abstract canvases of Kristin Herzog, a Naples, Florida-based artist and former civil engineering

Now -7/7 Now -8/5

Appleton Book Club

Virtual 7pm Join an online discussion of “The Art of Rivalry: Four Friendships, Betrayals, and Breakthroughs in Modern Art”

by Sebastian Smee. Visit appletonmuseum.org for more information.

Spectrum of Creativity

Ocala City Hall, 110 SE Watula Ave. 9am-5pm This student and emerging artist competition features the work of high school students and artists with less than 10 years’

6/7

Summer Spotlight XXIV

CF Webber Gallery, 3001 SW College Road 10am-4pm Monday-Thursday The Visual Artists’ Society presents the 24th annual juried exhibition of works in a variety of mediums Central Florida artist members. Call (352) 873-5809 for more information.

Government Marion County Development Review Committee 9am The DRC votes on waiver requests, drainage/site plans, subdivision master plans, preliminary plats, improvement information.

6/7

Marion County Board of Adjustment Variances

6/7

Marion County Commission Workshop

6/8

Marion County Soil and Water Conservation District Board

6/8

Ocala/Marion County TPO Technical Advisory Committee

6/8

Ocala/Marion County TPO Citizens Advisory Committee

6/8

City of Belleview Planning & Zoning Board

6/8

City of Dunnellon Historic Preservation Board

6/8

Silver Springs Shores Tax Advisory Council

6/8

Marion County License Review Board

6/9

Marion County Code Enforcement Board

6/5 Summer in the Sun -8/27

6/9

Dunnellon City Council Workshop

6/77/30

6/10

Marion County Development Review Committee Staff Meeting

Now Highlights from the Equine Collection -10/24

Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 12pm-5pm This exhibit of works from the permanent collection highlights more than 60 pieces which relay Arthur I. Appleton’s love of horses. Visit appletonmuseum.org for more information.

Now Alison Saar: Works from the Permanent Collection -1/22/ 2022

Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 12pm-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.

6/4 -30

6/4

Art in Bloom 10am-5pm Tuesday-Friday, 11am-4pm Saturdays This new exhibition will feature art, created by MCA member opening reception will be June 4 from 5-7pm and will include a drawing for the Horse Fever 20/20 Giving Collection. Visit mcaocala.org for more information.

Levitt AMP Concert Series

Webb Field, 1510 NW Fourth St. 7pm The free outdoor concert series will feature JP Soars & the more information.

6/5

Free First Saturday 10am-5pm Enjoy free admission to the museum’s permanent and special exhibits and outdoor sculpture walk. Visit appletonmuseum. org for more information.

NOMA Gallery 12pm-5pm Thursday-Saturday For this juried exhibition, artists were invited to submit works based on the theme “What Does Summer in the Sun Mean to You?” Visit nomaocala.com for more information.

Summer Art Camp Virtual 9-11am

Growth Services Training Room, 2710 E. Silver Springs Blvd.

2pm Call (352) 438-2600 for more information.

McPherson Governmental Campus auditorium, 601 SE 25th Ave. 2pm An update on the SW/NW 80th/70th Avenue preliminary engineering report. Call (352) 671-8686 for more information.

Growth Services Training Room, 2710 E. Silver Springs Blvd.

9:30am Call (352) 438-2475 for more information.

Ocala Public Library, 2720 E. Silver Springs Blvd.

10:30am Call (352) 629-8297 for more information.

Ocala Public Library, 2720 E. Silver Springs Blvd.

3pm Call (352) 629-8297 for more information.

5:30pm Call (352) 245-7021 for more information.

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

Silver Springs Shores Community Center, 590 Silver Road 6pm Call (352) 438-2810 for more information.

Growth Services Training Room, 2710 E. Silver Springs Blvd.

6pm The License Review Board hears and investigate complaints regarding competency of licensed contractors. Call (352) 4382428 for more information.

Growth Services Training Room, 2710 E. Silver Springs Blvd.

9am The Code Enforcement Board hears and resolves cases in which there is a code violation dispute. Call (352) 671-8901 for more information.

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

8:30am Applicants may discuss proposed or current projects with

online themed summer art camps featuring art activities and live classes with a n art instructor. Visit appletonmuseum.org for details.

Development Review Committee. Call (352) 671-8686 for more information.

ENTERTAINMENT CALENDAR 4

4pm Charity Cox

4

Swampy’s

4

5pm Vivacity

6pm The Big Bad

4

6pm

4

6:30pm Becky Sinn La Cuisine French Restaurant

5

7pm Friday Night Live

4

8pm Fareeza

5

10:30am Becky Sinn Ocala Downtown Market

6pm John Johnson

6pm Charity Cox

5

7pm Rocky and the Rollers

5

7pm The Music of Randy Travis and Travis Tritt Orange Blossom Opry

10pm Becky Sinn O’Malley’s Alley

6

7:30am War Horse Harley-Davidson

6

Circle Square Cultural Center

5

8pm Noah Hunton The Corkscrew

Ocala Downtown Square

The Keep Downtown

5

5

Locos Grill

Orange Blossom Opry

Shuckin’ Shack

4

7pm Miranda Madison

5pm Petty/Nicks World Equestrian Center

The Corkscrew

Ocala Downtown Square

4

5

Webb Field

World Equestrian Center

4

7pm JP Soars’ Gypsy Blue Revue

1pm John Johnson The Crazy Cucumber

6

2pm The Big Bad Gator Joe’s

B7

JUNE 4 - JUNE 10, 2021 | OCALA GAZETTE

Park named after North Magnolia leader

By Beth Whitehead Special to the Ocala Gazette Years ago, MaryLee Hershberger was instrumental in establishing Merchant’s Park on the corner of North Magnolia Avenue and Jacksonville Road.

Ocala artist and business owner died of COVID-19 rename the park in her honor got underway.

In March, Merchant’s MaryLee Hershberger Park.

The dedication was held on March 12, her birthday.

Hershberger would have been 84.

Her husband, Floyd, is thankful to have the pocket park next to his family business, BJ Trophies, Jaye Baillie, the executive director of the Marion Cultural Alliance, talked to Floyd about renaming the City Council approved the move.

“It’s really neat having her legacy remembered with the park out there because it is something that she

was very passionate about and very excited that they were going to do it…”

Floyd said. “That park is something that really exists probably because of her passion for it.”

About twenty years ago, the City of Ocala rebuilt portions of North Magnolia Avenue.

In the process, a little patch of land on the corner of North Magnolia and Jacksonville “She and I both were very adamant about maintaining it as a park, and that’s what happened,” Floyd said.

Seeing a group of kids tossing balls back and forth wife brings a smile to his face.

MaryLee was a founding member of the Marion Art League as well as the North Magnolia Business District.

She pushed for the formation of the NMBD that he asked a nearby business where BJ Trophies was located, and the neighbor had never heard of them.

“It was her artistic abilities and my kind of worked together to build the business to what it is today,” Floyd said.

MaryLee always had a pencil in her hand, even in her last days. Art was her delight.

She loved to work with pen and ink as well as acrylic.

Portraits were a favorite of hers, said her daughter Lee. In addition to faces, she

loved to paint landscapes and animals.

“In the last few years,” Floyd said, “She did a lot of inkwork of various places and buildings around Ocala: the gazebo and the train station and a lot of the older houses in the historic center.”

MaryLee enjoyed visiting and supporting the local shops and restaurants, Lee said.

“She did a lot for the city and a lot for Magnolia and for the Merchant’s Association. Today for the and there are kids playing all over the park,” she said.

“That park is something that really exists probably because of her passion for it.”

-Floyd Hershberger

MaryLee and Floyd founded BJ Trophies in 1977. The company is now owned by their son, Brian.

[Carlos Medina/Ocala Gazette]

Never Forget Dozens gathered at the Ocala/Marion County Veterans Memorial Park on May 27 during the unveiling of the “Wall of Faces” monument featuring the 47 Marion County residents killed during the Vietnam War. The late Steve Johnston worked for years researching those killed but passed away before he could see it completed. Friends of Marion County Veteran’s Park, along with community sponsors, completed the wall.

names on the memorial. Below: The memorial is seen in the foreground.

[Alan Youngblood/Special to the Ocala Gazette]

Answers for pages B4,B5

Ocala Gazette publishes fond remembrances of your loved one Visit ocalagazette.com to submit an obituary